50m max drop (2x 60m ropes)
9-10hrs total: 2hr + 1h15 / 4-5hr / 2hr (Approach/Descent/Return)
Public Access
Long and scenic, with some big pitches. In some places open and sunny, in others narrow and dark. Well worth the long walk in.
The hanging valley above is rumoured to be the last place that kakapo were found in the wild in mainland NZ.
First descent (lower section): Will Hamilton and Jona Schmutzer.
First descent (upper and lower sections): Patrick Timm, Alex Motyka, Conor Handley, Sach Knight, and Christian Miller, Jan 2025.
The 3-4 big pitches above the starting pool are still undescended…
Thanks to Christian Miller for the topo and Patrick Timm for the images
Another amazing canyon in the Tutoko valley. Great trip to combined with whio creek and stay up in the valley for a night.
Knowing there was more to be done further up we climbed a further hour fifteen straight up the TR. If you want to do the top I wouldn’t recommend going this way, It’s super steep and sketchy in several places, the TL should be easier. However on arrival at the top we found anchors in place! Most of the top has been done with threads. This canyon sees some water so take replacement if going. There are 5-6 drops up to 15m before the main drop that leads to the start of the described section. The main drop is 3 falls of 35/40/60ish. The 35 bolts will likely be damaged in high water, the other 2 should make it but ring hangers should be taken to replace the chain links that where used by the 1st D team.
The bottom section is the best part and well worth the walk!