For those interested:
https://www.odt.co.nz/regions/queens...-track-reopens

Thanks for the update Diamantina.

We tried to access the track from the Invincible Gold Mine side back in 2013, but the road was a mess.

I've heard it's wonderful track. Wish I had the knees for it. Here's another walking area that'll be opening up near Lake Hawea:
http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/8987...buyer-approval

We tried to walk the Sawyer Burn and Kidds Bush Tracks in 2015, but the access road was closed.

Evidently closed by the owners mentioned in the article you posted???

I did the Invincible Mine track on my last trip when I stayed at Kinloch Lodge but I don't recall that it was worthwhile.

One that I liked was the Lake Sylvan one..nice and flat with soft ground...

I wrote in that year's trip report:


"The Invincible Mine Track was a knee killer, but there’s no denying the spectacular views of the Rees Valley and Mt Earnslaw from the top. We continued walking past the mine and down to the river before turning back (three hours, 4.4 miles return)."

Sometimes once is enough though.

The new owner of the immense property at Lake Hawea that will be required to grant track access has been revealed as US broadcaster Matt Lauer:
https://www.odt.co.nz/regions/wanaka...hes-going-rich

mlgb, I like Lake Sylvan track, too. I half expect elves to emerge from the forest (that's laden with moss-covered felled logs). It's also easy on the knees, as you said, "nice and flat." Lots of birds, including South Island Robin and Mohua (more easily heard than seen). It's understandably popular.

I had a SI Robin sitting on my shoe on that walk, Diamantina! I gather they like to follow walkers since we kick up bugs for them to catch.