Huts & Campsites

The Heaphy Track features a network of well-maintained Department of Conservation (DOC) huts and campsites, providing comfortable overnight stops as you journey through Kahurangi National Park. Whether you prefer the comfort and camaraderie of a hut or the experience of camping under the stars, there are accommodation options to suit every adventurer.

DOC Huts

The huts provide a warm and welcoming place to rest at the end of each day and typically include:

Bunk accommodation with mattresses
Toilets
Rainwater supply (treat before drinking if recommended)
Cooking benches and sinks
Heating in huts

Walkers and mountain bikers must carry their own sleeping bag, food, cooking equipment and personal supplies.

Campsites

Several campsites are located along the track for those wanting a more traditional backcountry camping experience. Campsites include basic facilities such as toilets and water, but campers must bring their own tent, sleeping mat and cooking equipment.

Planning Your Nights

Most walkers complete the Heaphy Track over 4–6 days, staying at a combination of these huts and campsites. When planning your itinerary, consider your fitness level, daily walking distance and the amount of daylight available. Allowing a little extra time to enjoy the scenery often makes for a more rewarding experience.

Choosing where to spend each night is an important part of planning your Heaphy Track adventure. While most walkers complete the track in four to six days, there's no single itinerary that suits everyone. Your overnight stops should reflect your fitness level, experience and the pace at which you want to enjoy the journey.

Rather than rushing from hut to hut, allow time to pause at scenic viewpoints, photograph the ever-changing landscapes, enjoy the rivers and beaches, and simply take in the tranquillity of Kahurangi National Park. Weather and track conditions can also influence your progress, so building a little flexibility into your plans is always a good idea.

The Heaphy Track isn't just about reaching the finish—it's about experiencing one of New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness areas. Slow down, enjoy the journey, and create memories that will last long after you've left the trail.

Accommodation Along the Track

Brown Hut

Located at the northern trailhead near Golden Bay, Brown Hut is the starting point for many walkers. While most people don't stay overnight here, it provides a convenient place to begin the journey and is a popular lunch stop for day walkers.

Perry Saddle Hut

The first major overnight stop from the Golden Bay end. Surrounded by beech forest, Perry Saddle is close to the famous Gouland Downs, making it an ideal stop before venturing into the open alpine landscape.

Gouland Downs Hut

Set amongst the vast tussock plains, this hut offers spectacular views and a peaceful backcountry setting. Nearby wetlands and streams make this one of the most scenic overnight stops on the track.

Saxon Hut

Located in the heart of the Gouland Downs, Saxon Hut is surrounded by open country and mountain views. It's a favourite overnight stop for many walkers and mountain bikers thanks to its picturesque setting.

Mackay Hut

Perched above the Heaphy River, Mackay Hut provides sweeping views across the valley and surrounding mountains. Its elevated location makes it one of the most photographed huts on the track.

Lewis Hut

Nestled within native forest, Lewis Hut offers a quieter overnight stop before descending towards the lush nikau forests and coastline.

Heaphy Hut

Located near the mouth of the Heaphy River, this popular hut is surrounded by nikau palms and native forest, with the wild Tasman Sea just a short walk away. Many visitors spend time exploring the nearby beach before settling in for the evening.

Kōhaihai Campsite

Situated at the southern end of the track, Kōhaihai Campsite is a convenient place to stay before or after completing the Heaphy Track and provides easy access to the road into Karamea.

Heaphy Track Huts & Campsites