Heaphy Track

Hut availability for the Heaphy Track is limited and often books out, particularly during peak seasons. If you can't get a spot on your perferred date, use our free hut alerts tool to automatically notify you as soon as a spot opens up. Set up alert

Photo credit: Department of Conservation (NZ) ©

Track Details

The Heaphy Track is a must-do hike for anyone visiting New Zealand’s South Island. Spanning 78.4 kilometers (48.8 miles), the track takes you through a diverse range of landscapes, from lush rainforest to rugged coastal terrain. The track takes 4-6 days to complete and is considered one of the Great Walks of New Zealand.

The Heaphy Track starts at the Brown Hut end, located near Karamea and ends at the Kohaihai end, located near the West Coast. The track offers a unique experience as it takes hikers through a variety of terrains, including sub-alpine scrub, beech forest, and alpine tussock.

One of the highlights of the Heaphy Track is the Heaphy Hut, located in the heart of the track. The hut offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, and is the perfect place to rest and take in the natural beauty of the area. Another highlight of the track is the Heaphy River, which runs alongside the track for much of the way. The river is home to a variety of native fish and is a great spot for fishing.

The track is well-maintained, with well-graded tracks, bridges, and huts along the way. There are several huts along the Heaphy Track, which provide shelter and basic facilities for hikers. Booking is essential during peak season. If you can’t book a hut on your perferred day make sure to use our free hut alerts tool that is constantly checking against hut availability. This tool will send you an email notification as soon as a spot opens up.

It is important to be well-prepared for the hike, as the track can be challenging in places, and the weather can change quickly. It is recommended to be in good physical condition, wear appropriate footwear and clothing, and carry sufficient food and water.

Overall, the Heaphy Track is a challenging but rewarding hike that offers some of the most diverse landscapes in New Zealand. It is a must-do for anyone visiting the South Island and looking for an adventure in the great outdoors. The track offers a unique experience, taking hikers through a variety of terrains, making it one of the most diverse of the Great Walks in New Zealand.

Huts Along This Walk