Planning Ahead is Essential

While the Heaphy Track is considered one of New Zealand's more achievable Great Walks, it's also one of the most challenging to organise logistically. Unlike many walks that begin and end in the same area, the Heaphy Track stretches from Brown Hut in Golden Bay to Kōhaihai on the West Coast, with the two trailheads separated by approximately 460 kilometres by road.

Before setting off, you'll need to think about how you'll get to the start of the track, where you'll leave your vehicle, and how you'll return once you've finished. Many visitors choose to use shuttle services or vehicle transfers to simplify the journey.

The good news is that with a little planning, getting to and from the Heaphy Track is straightforward. In the following pages, we'll guide you through your transport options, accommodation, hut bookings and everything else you need to organise before your adventure begins.

How Long Does It Take?

Most walkers complete the Heaphy Track over 4–6 days, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the spectacular scenery and explore along the way.

Mountain bikers generally complete the track in 2–3 days, depending on fitness, weather conditions and overnight stops.

If you're short on time, several sections of the Heaphy Track also make excellent day walks, giving you the opportunity to experience some of the track's highlights without committing to the full journey.

How Fit Do You Need to Be?

The Heaphy Track is considered one of the more achievable Great Walks, but it still requires a good level of fitness. Walkers should expect to spend between 4 and 8 hours on the track each day, carrying everything they need for the duration of the trip.

Mountain bikers should be confident riding long distances over varied terrain, including steep climbs, technical descents and remote sections where assistance may not be readily available.

Preparing with regular walking, hiking or cycling — especially while carrying a loaded pack — will make your experience far more enjoyable.

Walking & Mountain Biking Seasons

The Heaphy Track is open to walkers all year, offering a unique experience in every season.

Great Walk Season (1 October – 30 April)

This is the most popular time to explore the track. DOC huts are staffed by wardens, facilities are fully operational, and bookings for huts and campsites are essential. Warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours make this the ideal season for many walkers.

Backcountry Season (1 May – 30 September)

The track remains open for walking, but facilities are reduced, weather conditions can be more unpredictable, and trampers should be experienced and well prepared. Heavy rain, strong winds, flooding and even snow on higher sections are possible.

Mountain Biking (1 May – 30 November)

The Heaphy Track is also one of New Zealand's premier multi-day mountain bike rides. Mountain biking is permitted each year from 1 May to 30 November. Riders share the track with walkers and must always give way, ride courteously, and be prepared for remote backcountry conditions. The track is graded Advanced (Grade 4) and is best suited to experienced riders.

Before You Go

Before setting off, make sure you have:

✓ Huts or campsites booked (where required)
✓ Transport to and from the trailheads organised
✓ Food packed for the duration of your journey
✓ Plenty of water or a method for treating drinking water
✓ Clothing suitable for changing weather conditions
✓ A first aid kit and emergency essentials
✓ Maps or offline navigation downloaded
✓ Checked the latest weather forecast and track conditions

Track Conditions & Safety

The Heaphy Track passes through remote areas of Kahurangi National Park, where conditions can change rapidly.

Rivers can rise quickly after heavy rain
Slips or fallen trees may affect sections of the track
Coastal areas can be exposed to strong winds
Winter conditions may include snow or ice at higher elevations

Always check the latest DOC track updates and weather forecasts before you go, and be prepared to adjust your plans if needed.

How to Book

Hut and campsite bookings are managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC) and can be made online through the DOC booking system.

Before booking, you'll need to decide:

Your direction of travel (Brown Hut to Kōhaihai or vice versa)
Your travel dates
Which huts or campsites you wish to stay at each night
Whether you'll be walking or mountain biking

Current hut and campsite prices, availability and booking information are available on the DOC website. Prices may change each season, so always check the latest information before making your reservation.

Book online: DOC Online Bookings

Huts & Campsites

The Heaphy Track offers a network of well-maintained DOC huts and campsites, providing comfortable overnight stops as you make your way through Kahurangi National Park.

DOC Huts

The huts provide a warm and social place to spend the night and typically include:

Bunk accommodation
Mattresses
Toilets
Rainwater supply (treat before drinking if recommended)
Cooking benches and sinks
Heating in selected huts during the Great Walk season

Walkers and riders need to carry their own sleeping bag, food, cooking equipment and personal supplies.

Campsites

Several campsites are located along the track for those who prefer to sleep under the stars. Campsites provide a more immersive backcountry experience while still offering access to basic facilities such as toilets and water.

Campers must bring all of their own equipment, including a suitable tent, sleeping mat and cooking gear.

Accommodation Along the Track

The main overnight stops include:

Brown Hut
Perry Saddle Hut
Gouland Downs Hut
Saxon Hut
Mackay Hut
Lewis Hut
Heaphy Hut
Kōhaihai Campsite (southern end)

Most walkers complete the track over four to six days by staying at a combination of these huts or campsites.

Tip: When planning your itinerary, consider your fitness level, daily walking distance and the amount of daylight available. Allowing extra time to enjoy the scenery often makes for a more rewarding Heaphy Track experience.

Planning Your Walk