Last updated October 2026
The Ōpōuri Bridle Track drops from Ōpōuri Saddle through native forest and farmland to Harvey Bay (Duncan Bay) in the Pelorus Sound/Te Hoiere area. You reach it from Tennyson Inlet Road, off State Highway 6 just past Rai Valley, about 42 km from Nelson.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) grades it as an easy to intermediate walking track, 3 km one way and about 1 hour. It is very steep and rocky in places, and the streams are not bridged. Mountain bikers can ride it as a Grade 4 descent.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Opouri Bridle Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOCTrack facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.
Practical Information
- Start
- Ōpōuri Saddle, on Tennyson Inlet Road (off State Highway 6 just past Rai Valley)
- Finish
- Harvey Bay (Duncan Bay)
- Distance from the city
- About 42 km from Nelson
- Walking time
- 1 hr one way
- Track length
- 3 km one way
- Grade
- Easy to intermediate walking track
- Mountain biking
- Allowed, Grade 4 (advanced)
- Horses
- Not suitable for horses
- Dogs
- Dogs with a DOC permit only
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
About Ōpōuri Bridle Track
This track follows the line of an old bridle path between the saddle and the sea. It starts high on Ōpōuri Saddle and heads downhill through a mix of native forest and open farmland before reaching the shore at Harvey Bay, also known as Duncan Bay.
The old bridle route is much steeper than most bridle tracks, and DOC says it is now steep, narrow and rocky enough that it is no longer suitable for horses. Expect rough footing in places and streams that you will need to cross without bridges.
For mountain bikers it is a fun downhill alternative to the road, but DOC notes that most riders will find parts of it unrideable. At Grade 4 it is aimed at advanced riders.
DOC gives 3 km and 1 hour one way, so allow for the climb back up if you return the same way.
Getting There
DOC says to reach the track from Tennyson Inlet Road, which leaves State Highway 6 just past Rai Valley. DOC also warns that severe weather has damaged many roads in Marlborough, so check the Marlborough District Council road updates before you travel.
Track Conditions and Safety
The track is very steep and rocky in places and the streams are not bridged. Weather in the Sounds is generally mild but can change quickly. Carry water, light fires only in designated areas, and in late summer and autumn carry antihistamine if you are allergic to wasp stings. Check DOC before you go and tell someone your plans.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Ōpōuri Bridle Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Marlborough District Council: road updates for the Marlborough Sounds before you travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Ōpōuri Bridle Track?
DOC gives 3 km one way, about 1 hour on foot.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it easy to intermediate, but the track is very steep and rocky in places with unbridged streams.
Can I mountain bike it?
Yes. It is graded 4 (advanced) for mountain biking. DOC says most riders will find parts unrideable.
Can I ride a horse on it?
No. DOC says it is no longer suitable for horses because it is so steep, narrow and rocky.
Can I take my dog?
Only with a DOC permit. Contact the closest DOC office to get one.
Where does it start?
At Ōpōuri Saddle on Tennyson Inlet Road, which leaves State Highway 6 just past Rai Valley. It finishes at Harvey Bay (Duncan Bay).
Are the roads open?
DOC warns that severe weather has damaged many Marlborough roads. Check the Marlborough District Council road updates before you go.
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