Heaphy Track
Tasman District
The Heaphy Track is one of New Zealand's ten Great Walks, located in the northwestern part of the South Island within Kahurangi National Park. Spanning 78.4 kilometres, the track traverses a variety of landscapes including rugged coastline, lush forests, and expansive tussock grasslands. It is named after Charles Heaphy, an early European explorer who, along with his companions and Māori guides, first charted parts of the route in 1846. The track is traditionally walked over four to five days, with mountain biking permitted during the winter months from May to September. The southern trailhead begins at Kōhaihai near Karamea on the West Coast, while the northern end lies in the upper Aorere River valley in Golden Bay. The route has a rich history of Māori settlement dating back to the 14th century, with archaeological sites near Heaphy Hut evidencing early habitation. European interest grew during the 19th century gold rush, leading to the establishment and surveying of the track, although it fell into disuse by 1900. It was revitalized with the creation of the North-west Nelson Forest Park in 1965 and later Kahurangi National Park in 1996. Despite flood damage in 2022 that temporarily closed sections, restoration efforts have reopened the full track, preserving its status as a premier outdoor adventure destination in New Zealand.
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Tip: The best time to hike the Heaphy Track is during the warmer months outside the winter biking season (October to April) to avoid shared use with mountain bikers. It's advisable to book huts and campsites in advance, especially during peak season, as the track is popular and accommodation fills quickly. Visitors should prepare for variable weather conditions and carry appropriate gear. Discounts may be available for early bookings or group reservations through the Department of Conservation. Check the latest track conditions and alerts before starting the journey, particularly after heavy rain or floods.
Interesting facts
- •The Heaphy Track is one of New Zealand's ten Great Walks, a prestigious group of premier tramping tracks.
- •The track is 78.4 kilometres (48.7 miles) long, usually completed in four to five days.
- •Mountain biking is allowed on the track during the winter season from May 1 to September 30.
- •Archaeological sites near Heaphy Hut indicate Māori settlement dating back to the 14th century.
- •Floods in February 2022 caused major damage to parts of the track, which were restored and reopened by October 2023.
History
Māori iwi settled along the Heaphy River area as early as the 14th century, with archaeological evidence near Heaphy Hut confirming pre-European habitation.
European exploration began in 1846 when Charles Heaphy, Thomas Brunner, and Māori guides explored the coastal route.
The discovery of gold in 1861 near Karamea increased interest in the track, prompting rough track creation and surveys in the following decades.
After the gold rush ended, the track fell into disuse by 1900.
The establishment of North-west Nelson Forest Park in 1965 and Kahurangi National Park in 1996 led to the track's rediscovery and improvement, culminating in its designation as one of New Zealand's Great Walks.
Place Guide
Kōhaihai Trailhead
The southern starting point of the Heaphy Track, located north of Karamea on the West Coast, featuring access facilities and information for trampers.
Heaphy Hut and Archaeological Site
A key rest point on the track near which significant archaeological investigations have revealed evidence of early Māori settlement.
Gouland Downs
A large tussock-covered plain crossed by the track, historically noted by early explorers and prospectors during the 19th century gold rush era.
Aorere River Valley Trailhead
The northern terminus of the Heaphy Track located in the upper valley of the Aorere River in Golden Bay, marking the completion point of the trek.