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Off-lead OKModerate

Te Araroa: Comyns Hut to Clent Hills Saddle

Ashburton · Canterbury

2468.3 km1426 m
↑ 17 m gain↓ 586 m descenthigh 1426 msteepest 43 %
DISTANCE8.3 km
ASCENT17 m
DURATION1h 41m
STEEPEST43 %
Nearest emergency vetChristchurch After Hours Veterinary Centre, Christchurch~125 min drive · after-hours (nights+weekends)
03 366 1052
The route

Good to know

Dogs can run off-lead here, one of only 323 tracks in Aotearoa where that’s allowed.

Open track, carry water for the dogUsually a quiet trackBest in summer; snow and ice at altitude in winter

About Te Araroa: Comyns Hut to Clent Hills Saddle

This long track follows 8.3 km as a track, near Ashburton in Canterbury.

A high-country section of Te Araroa through Hakatere Conservation Park, linking Comyns Hut with Clent Hills Saddle across tussock tops and river-flat terrain in the Canterbury foothills. There is no dedicated DOC track page for this exact segment; the dog wording is the Hakatere Conservation Park Te Araroa standard (confirmed on the park's Lake Emily to Glenrock Stream track page).

Graded moderate, it climbs about 17 m overall, pitching up to 43 % at its steepest, and takes about 1h 41m to walk.

Dogs are allowed off the lead on this one. DOC’s own wording: “Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times. Other pets on conservation land rules.”.

Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Can my dog go off the lead on Te Araroa: Comyns Hut to Clent Hills Saddle?

Yes. Te Araroa: Comyns Hut to Clent Hills Saddle is one of only 323 tracks in New Zealand where dogs can legally run off the lead. Check for seasonal wildlife closures before you unclip.

How long is Te Araroa: Comyns Hut to Clent Hills Saddle?

Te Araroa: Comyns Hut to Clent Hills Saddle is 8.3 km with roughly 17 m of climb and takes about 1h 41m.

Hikes nearby

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See every dog-friendly track in Canterbury →

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