Heaphy Track (5 full days)

The 82 kilometre track through Kahurangi National Park, connecting the Aorere Valley in Golden Bay with Karamea on the West Coast of the South Island, is a fantastic adventure for moderately fit people of all ages. It is usually covered in around five to six days.

Scenically, every day on the Heaphy Track is wonderfully different. You'll pass through ancient beech forests, expansive alpine tussock country, see giant rata trees, limestone caves and cliffs, cross broad rivers (all with sturdy bridges) and look out over rugged, densely forested mountains as far as the eye can see.

The huts are spaced evenly along the track. The longest distance between huts, excluding shelters is 17 kilometres between Brown Hut and Perry Saddle Hut. All huts except two have gas cooking facilities.

Bus Transport

Heaphy Track to Karamea (End of the Track)

Between Kohaihai at the western end of the track and Karamea, Brian from Karamea Transport operates a pick up/drop off service for $14 per head on scheduled daily trips at 9.30 and 1.30, but is happy to pick up trampers outside these times (minimum charge $40)
For more information or to make a booking, call (03) 7826 667.
Brian is based at Rongo Backpackers and Gallery (guests here receive a $2 discount) but is happy to transport trampers to other accommodation businesses in Karamea.

 The TRACK:

Brown Hut to Perry Saddle Hut

Time: 5 hr
Distance: 17.5 km

Perry Saddle to Gouland Downs Hut

Time: 2 hr
Distance: 7 km

Gouland Downs Hut to Saxon Hut

Time: 1 hr 30 min
Distance: 5.4 km

Saxon Hut to James Mackay Hut

Time: 3 hr
Distance: 11.8 km

James Mackay Hut to Lewis Hut

Time: 3 hr 30 min
Distance: 12.5 km

Lewis Hut to Heaphy Hut

Time: 2 hr 30 min
Distance: 8 km

Heaphy Hut to Kohaihai River Mouth

Time: 5 hr
Distance: 16.2 km

FEES  per person per day:   BOOK  Online
Booking required all year for
adults, children and youth
Adults Hut Ticket $30.60  Campsite Ticket $12.20

MORE INFO     OFFICIAL SITE