Step into a world of dramatic rock formations, ancient fossils, and a thriving ecosystem, promising an experience that is both wild and wonderfully magical.

The history of the Patuna Chasm Walkway is deeply intertwined with the farm in which it is found, having long been open to the public. ‘My parents purchased Patuna Farm in 1996,’ explains Michelle Hight, ‘and ran the chasm walk from then until 2022 when my partner, Ross [Andrew] and I put our hands up to take over.’

With tourism in their blood, having previously owned an accommodation business in Niue, Michelle and Ross relished the opportunity to expand on the work her parents had done. ‘It felt like the perfect timing and we have really enjoyed adding our own mark to the walk, with track changes and enhancement.’

The Patuna Chasm itself is a geological marvel – an adventure playground of limestone that has been uplifted by plate collision and then eroded by the persistent flow of the Ruakōkoputuna River.

Originally deposited on an ancient seabed, the limestone is composed of compressed calcium carbonate from shells and marine organisms millions of years ago to form a karst landscape. Over geological time, slightly acidic river water, enhanced by tannins from surrounding bush, dissolved the rock, gradually boring through bedding planes and fractures to reveal the dramatic limestone walls, natural arches, stalactites, and fossil-rich, cave-like tunnels through which visitors now wade, surrounded by moss-mantled stone.

This ancient formation is a living museum, boasting a beautiful moss waterfall, native orchids, fossils, shells, limestone formations and plenty of water! It is imperative you come prepared to get wet as while the walk initially takes you through native trees, you will be wading through the Ruakōkoputuna River.

The experience of the Patuna Chasm Walk is often described by visitors as ‘wild, rugged and fabulous’. It is a self-guided journey, allowing groups to explore at their own pace, typically taking around three hours to complete, though some finish in two hours and others in three and a half.

With a maximum group size of 36 and a minimum of three, the walk provides a balance of shared adventure and personal discovery. A typical peak-season Saturday will see multiple walks scheduled throughout the day, starting as early as 9 am. ‘Online bookings are essential,’ says Michelle, ‘so that we can ensure everyone gets the most out of their time on the track.’

Guests are transported by a Toyota Land Cruiser and custom-built trailer on a 15-minute ride through Patuna Farm (a working sheep and beef operation) to the chasm’s start. Here, instructions are provided before walkers embark on their adventure, with a pre-arranged pick-up time three hours later.

While undoubtedly beautiful, the walk requires a medium level of fitness involving river walking and hill climbs. Some balance and flexibility are also needed. ‘I highly recommend a hiking pole for those that need a bit of help through the river,’ continues Michelle, ‘as the rocks can be slippery.’

For those seeking an extra thrill, a swim-out option is available, leading to a deep swimming area that can be 1.4 m to 1.8 m deep, depending on the time of year.

Beyond the Chasm Walk, Patuna Farm also offer clay-bird shooting, a self-drive 4WD option to the start of the walkway, a coffee machine at check-in and a small store with local produce and home-grown products, with more planned on the horizon.

For those wanting to dip their toe into the magic and unique character found on a private farm walking track, Patuna Chasm is the perfect place to start – a blend of natural wonder, adventure and genuine hospitability within an achievable distance.