Maungatapu Murders Walk – 4WD Shuttle

Description

Journey into the Maungatapu Murders

Step into the landscape where one of New Zealand’s most infamous crimes unfolded in June 1866. Begin with MakeShift Spaces’ eerie  A Bridge Too Far  audio-visual pick a path guide along Nelson’s Bridge Street, then board your Scottish Express 4WD shuttle for the one-hour climb to the stunning  Maungatapu Saddle — a windswept gateway where native forest, wide views, and the Bryant Range meet.

The Dark Descent

From the saddle, set out on your self-guided walk down the historic  Maungatapu Saddle, following the same route where the Burgess Gang ambushed their victims. As you descend, the atmosphere deepens around Murderers Rock, the site linked to the killings of five gold rush travellers, while nearby bush and rugged terrain add to the sense of place and history.

This is more than a ghost trail. It is a walk through Nelson’s dramatic backcountry, where fern-filled gullies, birdsong, and sweeping valley views transform a grim episode into a powerful connection with the land. Your 8–10km descent takes around 2–3 hours at a moderate pace and finishes in the Pelorus Valley, where Scottish Express meets you for the return to Nelson.

Return Journey

On the return journey to Nelson, we stop at the historic Rai Valley Cottage at Carluke, a rare surviving example of early pioneer life in the area. Built in 1881 by Charles and Matilda Turner, it offers a glimpse into the hard, isolated, self-sufficient lives of the  settlers in the1800’s

From there, we continue to Wakapuaka Cemetery to visit the memorial to the victims, then on to Hallowell Cemetery to see the burial site of the murderers, before returning to Albion Square.

Practical Details

• When: 10.00 am pickup from Albion Square on your chosen date, at the end point of the audio guide.
• Who: Ages 12+ recommended. Moderate fitness required, as the walk is downhill but over uneven terrain on a 4WD track. Walking time is typically 2.5–3 hours.(Emergency pick-ups on the track are not a problem). Coffee and tea are available on board for early arrivals.
• What to bring: Sturdy shoes, water, snacks, and a spirit ready for reflection.

 Schedule: Follow this link for full approximate schedule

 Group Bookings – look at our booking calendar and get in contact for Custom trips for up to 9 people

 Resources

 Read our Blog Post on the Murders and the Tour
 Makeshift Spaces Interactive Audio Guide
 RNZ Black sheep podcast
 Death around every bend( dark dramatic movie on the murders)
Check your local library for Richards Burgess’s Confession

Please note due to the location of this transport, trip may be cancelled or postponed at the discretion of Scottish Express for adverse weather conditions
The Walk from Maungatapu Saddle(750m) to Pelorus Valley is a self guided outdoor experience, if you are unsure if this activity is for you please feel free to contact us for advice or head to https://www.mountainsafety.org.nz/

Please check dates below and use the enquiry tab to book custom transport