Around Makarora are some great day walks and multi-day adventures. 

From the Fantail Falls car park, just 10 minutes’ drive from the settlement, cross the unbridged, chilly Haast River. A large orange triangle marks the start of the Brewster Track. Beautiful beech forest is a good distraction from the unrelenting steep gradient, and gnarly tree roots make excellent steps and handholds. Once above the bush line, the exposed ridgeline track stretches all the way to the hut.

On a clear day, from the ridge, there are spectacular views into the Haast River  Valley and across to the Southern Alps, including commanding views of Mt Brewster and Mt Armstrong. It can get very windy so don’t linger long on these exposed tops. 

But, it’s a lovely day walk, or you could stay in Brewster Hut and explore the area further.