Pisa Range Conservation Area 4wd tracks

The Pisa Conservation Area covers over 23,000 hectares of spectacular sub-alpine landscape. Due to the fragile nature of the area, off-road vehicle users (4WD, quad bikes and motorbikes) need to complete the online access application and receive approval from DOC before accessing the Pisa Conservation Area. There is no 'as of right' public motorised vehicle access into the conservation area, as all the suitable access tracks cross private or pastoral lease land. So you must seek access permission through one of the private farms surrounding the conservation area, before submitting your DOC application for driving/riding the tracks within the conservation area.
Access is restricted to formed tracks on the northern part of the Pisa Conservation Area. Most of the tracks are D3, or even D2 gravel, but there are some sections of water ruts or rocks that can push up to D4. Motorised vehicles are not permitted on the southern part of the Pisa Conservation Area, which is west of Tuohys Saddle. Though I found that the track deteriorated before it descended to Meg Hut, which is where the gpx stops. Public vehicle access is restricted to the drier summer periods between 1 November to 1 April but can be closed anytime within this period to avoid damage to the tracks. This can be due to safety risks, weather conditions, threats to conservation or track damage.
This pack includes the main track through the conservation area, with offshoots to the main access tracks through surrounding farms. There are also two DOC huts accessible by motor vehicle, Kirtle Burn Hut and Deep Creek Hut. Their access tracks are included. In Dec 2024, I was able to obtain access through Lowburn Station, so I have included that track. But contact DOC Wanaka for current best access option and latest contact details, note that their website is a bit out of date.

https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/otago/places/pisa-conservation-area/?tab-id=Four-wheel-driving
https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/otago/places/pisa-conservation-area/online-application-for-motorised-vehicle-access/
Or contact DOC Wanaka:
Phone: +64 3 443 7660
Email: wanakavc@doc.govt.nz
Address: 1 Ballantyne Road, Wānaka 9305