Oxenbridge Tunnel Track | Short Walk in Arthurs Point (Queenstown)
Overlooking the Shotover River from the Oxenbridge Tunnel Track view point.
The historic Oxenbridge Tunnel Track is a half hour return walk offering multiple viewpoints overlooking the famous Shotover River. Families will love this short day walk in Arthurs Point, Queenstown.
In This Trail Guide:
Oxenbridge Tunnel Track Map
Created by Mountain Mamas NZ - Image sourced from LINZ - Crown copyright ©
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Distance | 1.5 kilometers |
| Trail Type | Out-and-back |
| Elevation Gain | 30 meters |
| Time | 20 minutes |
| Family Friendliness | ★★★★★ |
| Pram Access | No |
| Dog Access | No |
| Trailhead Coordinates | 44°59'07.4"S 168°40'09.4"E |
Note: 4WD vehicles can drive further up the sandy road to shorten the track by about half a kilometer.Walking the Oxenbridge Tunnel Track
Once you reach Oxenbridge Tunnel Road, you can park as soon as the road gets sandy and walk from there or drive forward if you’re confident you won’t get stuck in the sand. We opted to walk! Follow the sandy road (the middle one) as it curves around to the left alongside the famous Shotover River. Within 2 or 3 minutes of walking you should see a small green and yellow sign pointing out the track, the sign will be on your left.
To your right is the shotover river which you can walk right up to and feel the cold water. Swimming is usually not allowed here because the Shotover Jet boats and river rafters pass through here often at high speeds. The exception to this is on Wednesday and Friday nights from 5:30pm to 9:00pm when the Shotover River Bylaw goes into effect, allowing non motorised access to the water. Swimmers, kayakers and paddle boarders are all welcome during these times. It’s a lovely spot for a picnic or sand castle building too.
A big sandy beach area in front of the Shotover River. On the opposite side of the river you can see Morning Star Beach too.
After at least 5 minutes of walking from the start of the sandy road, you’ll come to the official “start” of the track. Marked with a Department of Conservation Sign stating that the view point is just 10 minutes further. From here, the path starts to slowly climb uphill but is not too strenuous at all.
The official start of the Oxenbridge Tunnel Track. 10 minutes to the view point from here.
Looking back towards another view of the vibrantly blue water.
The entire walk follows alongside the left side of the river, you’ll be able to hear the peaceful sounds of rushing water the entire time.
Soon after passing the previous DOC sign, keep your eyes out for a historic steam engine sitting on the rocks of the river. This steam traction engine is from the early 19th century, and was left behind by the failed mining scheme by the Oxenbridge brothers. Long story short, they attempted to build this tunnel in order to divert the river water away, so they could harvest gold from the riverbed. After 4 years they spent a combined total of approximately NZ $2.8 million and only ended up finding a measly NZ $48,000 worth of gold. Ouch!
As the path continues to climb up the side of the mountain, you’re rewarded with increasingly beautiful views of the bright blue river water. Too many photo opportunities to count on this walk! There are some very steep drop offs as you near the viewpoint, so I would hold your little ones hands here or walk on the outside of them, keeping them closer to the mountain side.
Appreciating the beautiful views.
About 15 minutes after leaving the car you should arrive at the final viewpoint. The lookout is fenced off for safety, because you’re standing on the edge of a cliff overlooking the vibrant blue shotover river below. If you hang around for a little bit, you might see a jet boat or rafter pass by.
The sun casts a harsh shadow on the view, making it difficult to capture nicely. If you’re a photographer or photo enthusiast looking to get the perfect shot, I recommend visiting in the early morning or late afternoon so the scene is completely shaded in. Return back to the car park by going back on the same track you followed here.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes, the Oxenbridge Tunnel Walk is very family friendly. There are a few steep dropoffs near the viewpoint at the end, but majority of the walk is flat and easy.
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No, unfortunately dogs are not permitted on the Oxenbridge Tunnel Track.
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Yes, you may swim in the Shotover River on Wednesday and Friday evenings from 5:30pm to 9:00pm. The Shotover River bylaw (2021) allows non-motorised access to the water: swimmers, kayakers and paddle boarders are all welcome.
Getting to the Trailhead
The Oxenbridge Tunnel Track is in Arthur’s Point, just 10 minutes north of Queenstown’s city center. Head North and follow Gorge Road for just under 5km’s before turning left onto Oxenbridge Tunnel Road. In about 500m turn right onto a sandy road. The trailhead is not signposted from the road and our GPS tried to take us further up the road past it, so keep a close eye out for that turn! You can park here along the start of the sandy road if you’re in a 2 wheel drive vehicle or drive further if you have 4wd. Follow the road in the middle for another minute before coming to a stop in front of the DOC sign.
Other Things To Do in Arthurs Point
Shotover River as seen from Morning Star Beach in Arthurs Point, Queenstown.
Arthurs Point is a small suburb within Queenstown, just 10 minutes north of the city center. It may be a tiny town but they have lots to offer!
Shotover Canyon Swing: Freefall 60 meters down above the Shotover Canyon. Must be at least 10 years old to jump.
Shotover Jet Boat Rides: Adrenaline seekers unite! Take a ride through the shotover river rapids at speeds up to 90km an hour. Must be at least 3 years old & 1 metre tall to ride.
Shotover River Rafting: A challenging and fun ride tackling the whitewater rapids of the Shotover River. Minimum 13 years or older to ride.
Morning Star Track (30min return)
A flat, easy walk taking you to Morning Star Beach along the Shotover River. Opposite side of the Shotover River as the Oxenbridge Tunnel Track.Moonlight Track (9km, 3hr 15min return)
A steep and scenic day hike overlooking the mountain ranges and valleys surrounding Queenstown. Chance to see many wildflowers and sheep on the walk too.
Where to Stay in Arthurs Point, Queenstown
Disclaimer: Please adventure at your own risk. The author of this article is not liable for any injuries or damage that may occur. It is up to the individual to determine their own capabilities and limits, and to thoroughly research before venturing into the great outdoors. Read our full Disclaimer.
