Walking the Heaphy Track: A Guided, Gourmet Experience

Start and End Points: Transfers Made Easy

The Heaphy Track runs between Brown Hut in Golden Bay (near the eastern end) and Kohaihai on the West Coast (near Karamea). With Southern Wilderness, all transfers are organized, making logistics stress-free.

1. Start Point - Brown Hut: The adventure begins with a transfer from Nelson or Motueka to Brown Hut, where you'll start your trek.
2. End Point - Kohaihai: After completing the track, a shuttle will return you to Nelson or Motueka,  or if you prefer you can take a scenic flight back. 

This seamless transportation ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the hike without worrying about how to get from one point to another.

Daily Itinerary: Distance, Elevation, and Highlights

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

• Elevation Gain: ~880 meters.
• Start your journey with a steady uphill climb through lush beech forests, crossing swing bridges and gaining altitude as you ascend into alpine tussock country.
• Stay the night at Perry Saddle Hut, situated in an open, scenic area with stunning views.

Day 2: Perry Saddle Hut to Saxon Hut (12.5 km)

• Elevation: Relatively flat, with some gentle descents.
• Walk through the Gouland Downs, an open expanse of rolling tussock grasslands interspersed with unique rock formations and small streams.
• Spend the night at Saxon Hut, nestled amidst the downs.

Day 3: Saxon Hut to James Mackay Hut (11.8 km)

• Elevation: Gentle inclines and descents.
• Pass through lush forests and expansive wetlands, with occasional views of the Heaphy River below.
• Stay at James Mackay Hut, with sweeping views of the West Coast and the Tasman Sea in the distance.

Day 4: James Mackay Hut to Heaphy Hut (20 km)

• Elevation: Gradual descent.
• Descend into the subtropical rainforest, following the Heaphy River. Cross several iconic swing bridges and keep an eye out for native birdlife like the weka and tui.
• Overnight at the picturesque Heaphy Hut, located near the river mouth with views of the ocean.

Day 5: Heaphy Hut to Kohaihai Shelter (16.2 km)

• Elevation: Rolling terrain with some flat sections.
• Walk along the rugged coastline, passing palm-fringed beaches and dramatic cliffs. Enjoy the stunning contrasts of the turquoise ocean and lush vegetation before arriving at the Kohaihai Shelter, marking the end of the track.

What to Expect

Scenery

• Diverse Landscapes: Alpine tussock, limestone formations, lush rainforests, river valleys, and coastal vistas.
• Wildlife: Look out for native birds like the kea, weka, and kereru, as well as unique flora such as nikau palms along the coast.

Accommodation and Meals

• The Heaphy Track Five Day guided Walk includes four night’s hut accommodation in Department of Conservation huts, all meals, guiding services, door to door transport to/from Nelson accommodation.
• NOTE: The accommodation on the track is in Department of Conservation huts – these are basic, but comfortable and must be shared with other walkers. Guests carry their own pack containing personal clothing and sleeping bag. Guides carry all food, cooking utensils and safety equipment.
• The Gourmet Factor -  fresh, colourful food. Providing gourmet meals in a remote setting where tinned and dehydrated food is the expectation. Guests will be provided with fresh nutritious food to fuel their bodies for their adventure.

Guides

• Friendly, knowledgeable guides will enrich your experience with insights about the area’s ecology, history, and Maori cultural significance.

What to Pack

Essentials

• Sturdy Hiking Boots: Comfortable and well-broken-in.
• Weatherproof Jacket: Essential for New Zealand’s unpredictable weather.
• Warm Layers: Even in summer, alpine sections can be chilly.
• Quick-Drying Clothing: Lightweight tops, hiking pants, and thermals.
• Daypack: To carry water, snacks, and extra layers.
• Headlamp or Torch: For early mornings or hut use.
• Sunscreen and Hat: For sun protection during exposed sections.

Fitness and Difficulty

The Heaphy Track is considered moderate in difficulty, with steady climbs and descents rather than steep sections. Daily distances range from 11.8 to 20 km, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended.

With the support of experienced guides and catered logistics, even first-time multi-day hikers can enjoy this adventure with confidence.

Why Choose a Guided, Catered Experience?

1. Stress-Free Logistics: Leave the planning and transfers to the experts.
2. Enhanced Experience: Learn about the track’s unique environment and history from knowledgeable guides.
3. Comfortable Hiking: Carry only a daypack, as meals and heavier items are taken care of.
4. Safety: Enjoy the reassurance of traveling with experienced guides and robust safety measures.

Book Your Heaphy Track Adventure

Walking the Heaphy Track is a journey through some of New Zealand’s most diverse and dramatic landscapes. With Southern Wilderness’s 5-day guided and catered option, you’ll experience the best of the trail without the stress of planning or carrying heavy packs.