Located in the stunningly beautiful Kahurangi National Park on the west coast of New Zealand’s South Island, the Heaphy Track is a 78.4-kilometer hiking trail that can take three to five days to complete. With its spectacular landscapes, diverse wildlife, and exceptional views, it is no wonder that the Heaphy Track has been named one of the Great Walks of New Zealand. It is the perfect destination for any keen hiker.
History of the Heaphy Track
The Heaphy Track has been in use for centuries. It has served as a trading route for the Moriori people, an economic highway for gold miners during its peak in the late 1800s, and a place for recreation for many years. The Heaphy Track was declared a part of the New Zealand Conservation Estate in 1981 and remains one of the most popular long-distance walks in the country.
Exploring the Heaphy Track
Starting from the Brown Hut in the Golden Bay region of the South Island, the Heaphy Track spans 6 days, with the 5-day version allowing hikers to skip the first day on the track. Along the way, hikers will traverse a variety of terrains, including everything from sandy beech forest, lush rainforest, to deep river valleys. This variety ensures there is always something new and exciting to see while walking the Heaphy Track.
The track is known for its unique and varied wildlife, including a wide range of birds, and even the rare kiwi. The Heaphy Track is also home to the endangered Orange Frog and is one of the few places in the world where large populations of the tuatara can be found. A small number of the West Coast’s native mammals such as the long-tailed bat and the lesser short-tailed bat can also be seen here.
From the coastal lowlands, climbers will ascend up to the alpine zone and traverse along the top of the high profile of the Arthur Range. The Arthur Range is the highest range between the Southern Alps and the North Island and offers some of the most spectacular views of the entire track. Those who make it to the top will be rewarded with incredible views of the surrounding landscape and a sense of accomplishment. As hikers make their way down the range, they will come upon the picturesque Brown Hut, which marks the end of the Heaphy Track.
Hiking the Heaphy Track: What to Bring
Hiking the Heaphy Track requires careful planning and preparation. All hikers should bring enough food and water, a warm sleeping bag, rain gear, and extra layers of clothing for the colder days on the trail. Hikers should also be prepared for changes in weather and bring a first-aid kit, a map of the trail, a compass, and a GPS. It is a good idea to bring a tent and camping supplies, including a stove and fuel. Additionally, hikers should have an emergency communication device such as a cell phone, satellite phone, or personal locator beacon in case of an emergency.
The Great Walks of New Zealand have some excellent tips and advice for those interested in hiking the Heaphy Track, including information about booking huts, campsites, and water-taxis. It is essential that all hikers plan their journey, research the track, and always be aware of the surrounding environment.
- What to Pack:
- Food and water
- Warm sleeping bag
- Rain gear
- Extra clothing layers
- First-aid kit
- Map of the trail
- Compass
- GPS
- Tent and camping supplies
- Stove and fuel
- Emergency communication device
- Things to Do:
- Plan your journey
- Research the track
- Stay aware of your surroundings
- Book huts, campsites, and water-taxis in advance
- Enjoy the stunning views and wildlife
The Heaphy Track is an amazing journey and a hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re a first-time hiker or an experienced explorer, the Heaphy Track offers an unforgettable experience of the wild and remarkable scenery of New Zealand’s Kahurangi National Park.