Discovering Glendhu Station's Coast Access
Located in the Wairarapa region of New Zealand, Glendhu Station provides access to a secluded and unnamed beach north of the Pahaoa Riverhead. This remote spot is perfect for those seeking solitude and the chance to explore a secluded rural river landscape on the way to a wild, remote beach.
Accessing Glendhu Station
To reach Glendhu Station, turn left onto Glendhu Road from Pahaoa Road. This route will take you across the river and up to the homestead. While the station itself is primarily a large sheep-grazing area, it serves as the gateway to the beach. A closed gate marks the start of the access road, which becomes a muddy track after rain. Visitors are required to log in and out at this point, and there are signs detailing fishing and shellfish quotas.
Navigating the Terrain
The trail to the beach follows the north side of the Pahaoa River. To drive beyond the homestead, a 4WD vehicle is essential due to the challenging terrain, which includes fords and fields. Walking to the beach from the homestead takes just under an hour, though conditions can vary depending on the weather. The path winds through grazing land, with fabulous river views, where sheep may watch your progress. At the end is a steep and untamed beach.
How to Get There
To reach Pahaoa Riverhead from Martinborough, take Hinakura Road all the way to remote Hinakura, where the road becomes Bush Gully Road. After a short distance, turn southeast onto gravel Pahaoa Road. Partway along the road, turn off onto the Glendu Station access road. The drive is winding, 42 km and takes about 75 minutes.
If you continue on Pahaoa Road, you will reach Pahaoa Station, with access to the beach on the south side of the river. Other remote places to explore the south Wairarapa Coast include White Rock Beach, Tora Beaches and Cape Palliser Road to Cape Palliser.
