The Heaphy Track is one of New Zealand’s most iconic Great Walks, stretching across the wild and varied landscapes of Kahurangi National Park in the South Island. It’s a multi-day journey that transitions from alpine tussocklands to palm-fringed coastlines, making it a unique and unforgettable hiking or biking adventure.

Quick Facts

Why Do the Heaphy Track?

1. Diverse Landscapes

Alpine Plateaus with panoramic views

Limestone caves & cliffs through the Gouland Downs

Podocarp forests and mossy valleys

West Coast beaches lined with nikau palms

2. Rare Wildlife Encounters

Home to great spotted kiwi (roa), weka, kea, and powelliphanta snails

Best chance to hear kiwi at night in higher altitude huts

3. A Journey of Solitude

Fewer crowds than other Great Walks

Remote and peaceful with a back-to-nature feel

Suggested Itinerary (Walking)

Day 1: Brown Hut to Perry Saddle Hut (17.5 km)

Climb steadily through beech forest into alpine country

Day 2: Perry Saddle to Saxon Hut or James Mackay (12–24 km)

Cross the open Gouland Downs; optional cave side tracks

Day 3: James Mackay to Heaphy Hut (20.5 km)

Long descent toward the lush West Coast; nikau palms emerge

Day 4: Heaphy Hut to Kohaihai (16.2 km)

Walk beside wild beaches, rivers, and swing bridges to track’s end

Mountain Biking the Heaphy

Only allowed May 1 – Nov 30 (off-season for trampers)

Advanced riders can complete it in 2–3 days

Technical in parts with changing terrain — be prepared!

Accommodation

DOC Huts: 7 along the track with bunks, toilets, heating (no cooking facilities)

Campsites: Well-spaced and bookable through the DOC website

Booking is essential, especially in summer.

What to Bring

Waterproof gear and warm layers

Sleeping bag and stove (no gas at huts)

Torch for caves & tunnels

Map and personal locator beacon (PLB) recommended

Tips for Success

Check weather — track is remote and exposed
Bring insect repellent for coastal sections
Be self-sufficient — no services or shops en route
DOC rangers may be present — follow Leave No Trace principles

Getting There & Back

Start at Brown Hut (Golden Bay) or Kohaihai (West Coast near Karamea)

No direct road between ends — arrange shuttle or scenic flight

Options via Golden Bay Air, Heaphy Track Transport, or tracknet.nz

Nearby Attractions

Wharariki Beach – Wind-sculpted dunes and sea stacks (45 min from Collingwood)

Farewell Spit – Tours to lighthouse and bird sanctuary

Cape Foulwind – Lighthouse and seal colony near Westport

Final Word

The Heaphy Track is a spectacular blend of solitude, scenery, and true New Zealand wildness. Whether you’re walking or biking, every day reveals something new — a bird call in the bush, a thunderous sea, or the quiet hush of an alpine morning.

Come for the views. Stay for the stillness.