Scenic Meads Road
Located on the isthmus between Lake Hāwea and Lake Wānaka, a turnoff on Meads Road from State Highway 6 provides a short scenic drive to Kidds Bush Reserve on Lake Hāwea. This route takes you to one of the most scenic campsites in the region, with superb forest and mountain walks, and provides views across the lake, including a magnificent view of Isthmus Peak.
Journey Through Green Farmland
Meads Road is a gravel road that can be somewhat rough. The route traverses steep, verdant farmland beneath Sentinel Peak, eventually leading back to the lakeside and the Kidds Bush campground. The high point on this road offers breathtaking views to the southeast of Corner Peak and of Isthmus Peak to the southwest. The view extends all the way to the south end of the lake.
Keep an eye out for an unnamed waterfall as you cross a short bridge over one of the many streams cascading down the hillside. This hidden gem is a nice element of surprise.
Beyond Kidds Bush, the road extends towards the Hunter Valley, following the lake's mostly northerly arm. At the road's end, you can access a remote tramping track that takes you deep into the Hunter Valley, between the Young and Huxley Ranges.
You are also likely to encounter sheep or cattle along the road, so drive slowly.
Reaching the Start of Your Journey
From Wānaka, take State Highway 6 north along the west side of Lake Hāwea. The turnoff to Mead Road is at the northwest end of the lake. The drive is 42 km and will take around 44 minutes.
From the campsite, you can explore the Kidds Bush Nature Trail and hike the fabulous Sawyer Burn Track to above the bush line. Access to the Isthmus PeakTrack is also a short drive back on SH6.
