Helicopter operations on kunanyi/Mt Wellington

Published on 16 February 2023

Helicopters have been busy at work on kunanyi/Mt Wellington to restore one of the mountain’s much-loved attractions, the Zig Zag Track.

For more than a century the Zig Zag Track has been a major walking route to the summit of kunanyi/Mt Wellington, but the elements have taken their toll, and the track needs considerable work to repair erosion and make it safer for walkers and runners.

It is most popular track to the Pinnacle on kunanyi as it is the most direct route to the pinnacle while providing breathtaking views of the city and the iconic Organ Pipes en route to the top.

The first stage of our track restoration project started in January 2022, with 200 metres of stonework completed above the Pinnacle Track intersection.

Stage two of the Zig Zag Track restoration project started last month. To ensure a safe working environment the track has been closed from 23 January 2023 and will remain off-limits until the restoration works are completed, which is expected to be by mid-2023.

The upgrade of the track will see helicopter operations, lifting boulders and other resources and equipment into place.

“Even Hobart’s iconic kunanyi/Mt Wellington needs a little bit of love and care,” Hobart Acting Lord Mayor Helen Burnet said.

“The work will make the track a safer walking route while maintaining its important heritage values and bush feel.”

City of Hobart Sustainability in Infrastructure Portfolio Chair Cr Bill Harvey said the track was used constantly throughout the year.

“During the busy months, close to 250 people a day use the Zig Zag to reach the summit,” Cr Harvey said.

“Overall, 63,000 walkers and runners used this track last year, so it is easy to see why it needs some attention and why it is so important to maintain it in its best possible condition.”

Alternative access to The Pinnacle for walkers will be available via Milles Track, Icehouse Track, and South Wellington Track, but note this is a harder and longer route than the Zig Zag Track and better suited to more experienced walkers.

There will be reduced car parking at the Old Hotel Site at The Springs and occasional helicopter operations may mean short-term closure of nearby tracks as well as the Old Hotel Site.