Kahurangi National Park
Tasman District
Kahurangi National Park, located in the northwest of New Zealand's South Island, is the country's second largest national park, spanning over 5,193 square kilometers. Established in 1996, the park is renowned for its geological complexity and diverse landscapes, including mountain ranges, rivers, gorges, karst formations like caves and natural arches, and raised peneplains. It hosts 80% of New Zealand's alpine species and about 18 endemic bird species, making it a crucial conservation area. The park features popular multi-day tramping tracks such as the Heaphy Track-one of New Zealand's Great Walks-and the Wangapeka Track. Visitors can enjoy activities like tramping, mountain biking, rafting, and caving. Several scenes from the "Lord of the Rings" film series were shot here, highlighting its dramatic natural beauty. Managed by the Department of Conservation, Kahurangi includes significant sites like Kahurangi Point and Mount Owen. Gateway towns such as Motueka and Takaka provide access, with a network of tracks and car parks throughout the park. Its name, meaning 'treasured possession,' reflects its outstanding natural and recreational values.
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Tip: Visitors should plan carefully for overnight tramping trips, ensuring they carry appropriate gear including sleeping bags, cooking utensils, warm clothing, and waterproofs. The best time to visit is during the warmer months when bus services operate to key trailheads like the Heaphy Track. Advance preparation and checking current weather and track conditions at DOC offices are recommended. Use of 4WD vehicles is advised for certain unmaintained roads such as Pearse Valley Road. Gold fossicking is permitted only in designated areas using hand-held tools. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the park.
Interesting facts
- •Kahurangi National Park contains 80% of New Zealand's alpine species.
- •The park hosts around 18 endemic bird species unique to New Zealand.
- •Several locations in the park were filming sites for the "Lord of the Rings" film series.
- •The Anaweka waka, found near the park, is one of only two known surviving long-distance voyaging canoes from Polynesian navigation.
- •The park includes the Heaphy Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks.
History
The Kahurangi region has been inhabited by Māori since around 1380 CE, with archaeological evidence of settlements along the coastline and river estuaries.
The Anaweka waka, dating back to the 13th century, is among the few surviving long-distance voyaging canoes, indicating extensive Pacific navigation.
Ngāti Tūmatakōkiri held authority over the area from the early 1600s until the early 19th century when other iwi contested control.
Early European presence began with sealers, followed by resource exploitation after the 1841 Nelson settlement.
The discovery of gold in the 1860s sparked a rush, and sheep grazing was later established in the region.
The national park was officially established in 1996, incorporating much of the former North-west Nelson Forest Park.
Place Guide
Heaphy Track
A renowned multi-day tramping and mountain biking trail crossing diverse landscapes including rivers, forests, and alpine herbfields. It is one of New Zealand's Great Walks and offers stunning natural scenery.
Wangapeka Track
Another multi-day tramping route offering access to remote wilderness areas with opportunities for rafting and caving nearby.
Mount Arthur Area
A mountainous region within the park known for its rugged terrain and alpine environment, popular for hiking and exploration.
Oparara Basin
A karst landscape featuring caves, natural arches, and unique limestone formations, showcasing the park's geological diversity.
Contact
Phone: 03 546 9339