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Description
Cobb Valley is a stunning mountain valley in Kahurangi National Park, beginning at the Cobb Reservoir and winding through beech forest and open tussock. The track follows the Cobb River and is a great place to run into Weka, New Zealand Fernbird, and large flocks of finches in the open country and to spot South Island Robin, Tomtit, New Zealand Bellbird, and others in the forest. Also look out for Kea, New Zealand Kaka, and Kakariki Yellow-crowned Parakeet.
The river itself often holds Pacific Black Duck in clean, distinctive plumage - showing none or minimal signs of hybridisation. Staying overnight at one of the smaller huts or the larger Fenella Hut gives you a good chance to hear, and possibly see, Great Spotted Kiwi, which are present in the area. Close to the upper huts, Cobb Lake sits at 1089 m surrounded by alpine ridges. The scenery and remoteness of the valley make for a great birding and tramping experience.
Details
Access
Turn off State Highway 60 at Upper Takaka and allow at least an hour to drive the narrow gravel road up to parking at the Trilobite Hut, near the Cobb Valley Campsite, at the top of the reservoir. The road may not always be suitable for low-clearance vehicles. From the campsite, the Cobb Valley Hut to Fenella Hut is about 13 km one way and takes 5-6 hours on foot. It's possible to do shorter walks or stay in huts closer to the start. Be aware this is a mountain environment, so come prepared for sudden weather changes and seasonal conditions.