NEW ZEALAND GREAT WALKS GUIDE
heaphy Track Guide: Everything You Need to Plan Your Hike
The Heaphy Track is located in the Kahurangi National Park on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. This Great Walk takes you through a diverse range of landscapes, from lush forests to alpine tussocks, and offers stunning views of the coastline. The Heaphy Track is the longest of the Great Walks with options to mountain bike the track at certain times of the year.
HEAPHY
TRACK
Each track has its own story - click the links below to find out what awaits you
HEAPHY TRACK QUICK OVERVIEW
location
The Heaphy track is located at the top of the South Island in the Kahurangi National Park and is a one way track that can be walked in either direction. Hikers start from either Golden Bay approx 2 hrs 45 mins drive from Nelson or alternatively from Kohaihai on the West Coast approx. 2 hrs 20 mins drive from Westport. ​​​​​​​​​​​​
difficulty
The Heaphy track is the longest Great Walk totaling 78.4 km. The track can be walked in either direction taking 4 to 6 days to complete and is considered an intermediate track.
at a glance
LENGTH: 78.4 km one way. Can be walked in either direction
DURATION: 4-6 days walking / 2-3 days biking
DIFFICULTY: Moderate
CAMPING: Allowed, there are 9 campsites available
MOUNTAIN BIKE: Allowed from 1 May - 30 Nov only. E-bikes are not permitted
possible itinerary
Great Walks Season: All year round
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DAY 1: Brown Hut to Perry Saddle Hut/Campsite 17.5 km / 5 hrs
DAY 2: Perry Saddle Hut to James Mackay Hut/Campsite 24.2 km / 6.5 hrs
DAY 3: James Mackay Hut/Campsite to Heaphy Hut/Campsite 20.5 km / 6 hrs
DAY 4: Heaphy Hut/Campsite to Kohaihai Shelter/Campsite 16.2 km / 5 hrs
This popular East to West direction ensures you get expansive views as you descend to the Tasman Sea. However, travelling West to East means you end up closer to the beautiful Golden Bay beaches.
Read our Heaphy Track experience
Want to know what it's really like? Read about our 4-day adventure, favourite viewpoints, hut stays, and the lessons we learned along the way.
​Read it here​​​​​
WHY WALK THE HEAPHY TRACK
BEST FOR: Hikers looking for a quieter Great Walk with diverse scenery, fewer crowds and a more remote backcountry experience.
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The Heaphy Track is the perfect Great Walk for hikers looking to escape the crowds and experience one of New Zealand's most diverse multi-day hikes. While it doesn't receive the same level of attention as the Milford or Routeburn Tracks, many people who have completed it consider it one of the country's hidden gems.
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Choose the Heapy Track:
​One of the biggest highlights of the Heaphy Track is the incredible variety of landscapes. Over four to six days you'll walk through lush beech forests, expansive tussock downs, rugged mountain ranges, ancient nikau palm forests and finally emerge on the wild West Coast, where the track follows dramatic coastline alongside the Tasman Sea. Each day feels noticeably different from the last, making the journey feel fresh from start to finish.
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If you've missed out on bookings for some of New Zealand's more popular Great Walks, the Heaphy Track is also well worth considering. Although it is becoming increasingly popular, there are more huts along the track than most other Great Walks, giving you greater flexibility when planning your itinerary. This often means hut bookings are still available after tracks like the Milford, Routeburn and Kepler have sold out.
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The Heaphy Track is also one of the more remote Great Walks. Once you're on the trail, you'll experience long stretches of untouched wilderness with fewer hikers than many of the other Great Walks. If you're looking for a quieter backcountry experience without sacrificing well-maintained tracks and comfortable huts, the Heaphy Track is an excellent choice.
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The Heaphy Track may not be for you:
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Being New Zealand's longest Great Walk does come with a few considerations. Most hikers take between four and six days to complete the track, so you'll need to allow more time than for some of the shorter Great Walks. Transport logistics are also a little more complicated, as the trail starts in Golden Bay and finishes on the West Coast, with several hours of driving between the two trailheads. Most walkers use a shuttle service to simplify the journey.
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One of the Heaphy Track's greatest strengths is that it's an excellent all-rounder. Rather than showcasing just one type of scenery, the track combines mountains, native forest, open tussock, rivers, lush nikau palm forests and rugged West Coast coastline into one unforgettable journey, making it one of New Zealand's most varied Great Walks.
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Overall, the Heaphy Track is best suited to hikers who value scenery over summits, enjoy quieter trails and want to experience a remarkable range of landscapes on a single hike. If you're looking for a Great Walk that feels a little more remote and adventurous while still offering excellent facilities, the Heaphy Track deserves a place at the top of your list.​​​​​​
Heaphy Track OVErview
The Heaphy Track is located in the Kahurangi National Park at the top of the South Island. This is a one-way track starting either in Karamea on the West Coast or Golden Bay, west of Abel Tasman National Park. Maori had traditionally travelled a similar route over Gouland Downs from Aorere to the Heaphy River to collect greenstone (pounamu) for tools, ornaments and weapons. This Great Walk has some of the most diverse landscapes with hikers experiencing rugged mountains, enchanted forests, nikau palms, and wild wind-swept beaches.
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The Heaphy Track is the longest of the Great Walks taking 4-6 days over 78.4 km one way and can be walked all year round. This track, like the Paparoa Track, can be mountain biked as well as hiked during the period 1st May to 30th November only. It is considered an advanced Grade 4 mountain biking track.
There are 6 huts on the track - Brown Hut (16 bunks), Perry Saddle Hut (28 bunks), Gouland Downs Hut (8 bunks), Saxon hut (16 bunks), James Mackay Hut (28 bunks), Heaphy Hut (32 bunks). There are campsites at each of the huts as well as 4 more (Aorere, Katipo Creek, Scotts Beach, Kohaihai). The Heaphy Track is not as popular as other Great Walks so it can
be easier to secure huts/campsite bookings throughout the year (outside of holiday periods). Although it's a much quieter walk than other Great Walks, the area is popular for other activities.
The Heaphy is not a loop track and finishes kilometers apart, so organizing logistics to/from the beginning and end of the track can be the most challenging part of booking this Great Walk.​​​​​
BEST TIME TO WALK THE HEAPHY TRACK
One of the biggest advantages of the Heaphy Track is that it can be walked year-round. Unlike the Milford and Routeburn Tracks, which have higher alpine sections and greater avalanche risk, the Heaphy Track sits at a lower altitude and offers a much longer walking season. Every season provides a unique experience, so the best time to visit depends on the type of hike you're looking for.
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Summer (December - February)
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Summer is the most popular time to walk the Heaphy Track. Long daylight hours, warmer temperatures and generally settled weather make for excellent hiking conditions. This is the best time to enjoy the rugged West Coast beaches, swim in the rivers and make the most of the longer days.
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As with all Great Walks, summer is also the busiest time of year, so booking huts well in advance is recommended. Sandflies can also be persistent, particularly near the coast and around some of the huts, so don't forget to pack insect repellent.
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Autumn (March - May)
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Autumn is one of the best times to hike the Heaphy Track. The summer crowds begin to disappear, temperatures become cooler and the track feels noticeably quieter. Stable weather often continues well into autumn, making it an excellent time to enjoy the changing scenery without the peak season crowds.
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From 1 May, the Great Walks season ends and mountain biking is permitted on the track until 30 November. If you're walking during this period, you'll likely encounter cyclists along parts of the trail. Riders are generally courteous and walkers still have priority, but it's worth being aware of when planning your trip.
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Winter (June - August)
The Heaphy Track is one of the few Great Walks that remains accessible throughout winter, offering a peaceful and remote hiking experience. If you're looking to escape the crowds, this can be a fantastic time to visit.
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However, winter conditions can be challenging. Expect colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours and a greater chance of prolonged rain. Snow is also possible around Perry Saddle, and heavy rainfall can cause rivers to rise quickly or temporarily close sections of the track. Always check the latest track conditions before setting out and be prepared for rapidly changing weather.
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Spring (September - November)
Spring is a beautiful time to walk the Heaphy Track. Native forests are lush and vibrant, rivers and waterfalls are flowing strongly, and birdlife is particularly active. While temperatures begin to warm, spring weather can still be unpredictable, so it's wise to pack for all conditions.
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Like winter, spring falls outside the Great Walk season, so mountain bikers are permitted on the track. The upside is that you'll generally encounter far fewer walkers, making for a quieter and more relaxed experience.
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Be prepared for West Coast weather
No matter when you choose to walk the Heaphy Track, be prepared for rain. The western side of the track receives some of the highest rainfall in New Zealand, and it's not unusual to experience sunshine, wind and heavy rain all in the same day.
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A good quality waterproof jacket, rain pants and a pack liner are essential. It's also worth allowing some flexibility in your travel plans, as severe weather can occasionally delay transport or temporarily close sections of the track.
If you don't mind a little rain, you'll be rewarded with lush rainforest, roaring waterfalls and the vibrant green landscapes that make the Heaphy Track one of New Zealand's most spectacular Great Walks.
WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE HEAPHY TRACK
Brown Hut travelling to Kohaihai Shelter – 4 day hike
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Day 1 – Brown hut to Perry Saddle Hut 17.5km
The hike begins at Brown Hut and hikers will cross the Brown River and start a gradual climb approx. 4 hours towards Aorere Shelter. Hikers can elect to complete a 10 mins return side trip to Flanagan's Corner, the highest point from the track at 915 m. Perry Saddle Hut/Campsite is approx. 30 mins further on from here.
Day 2 - Perry Saddle Hut to James Mackay Hut 24.2km
The 24.2km hike to James Mackay Hut should take approx. 6hrs 30 mins. Hikers will cross Perry Saddle until the valley widens and in approx. 2 hrs hikers will reach Gouland Downs Hut after Cave Brook and an open tussock area. The hike from Gouland Downs Hut to Saxon Hut sees hikers cross relatively flat tussock land and takes approx. 1 hr 30 mins. A 30 mins return side trip to the enchanted forest is a must with beech trees, old caves, and a small waterfall. Stay on the track in the forest as it is easy to get lost here. The final 11.8km push to James MacKay Hut will take approx. 3 hours where the track climbs gently over a ridge and back around MacKay Downs. James MacKay Hut offers views of the Tasman Sea and the Heaphy River.
Day 3 - James Mackay Hut to Heaphy Hut 20.5km
The hike to Heaphy Hut is expected to take approx. 6 hours. Hikers descend to the Heaphy River passing the emergency Lewis Shelter after 12.5km. Hikers cross the longest suspension bridge over the Heaphy River and head towards the mouth of the river under kahikatea, rimu, and rata trees. The Heaphy Hut is set back from the ocean.
Day 4 - Heaphy Hut to Kohaihai Shelter 16.2km
The track heads south under forest, across rivers, and beaches towards Kohaihai which should take approx. 5 hrs. Scotts Beach and campsite sits just before the climb over the Kohaihai saddle and bridge to cross the river. Continue on towards the shelter and car park to end the hike.
HEAPHY TRACK DAY WALK OPTIONS
If you are interested in getting a taste of the Heaphy track, a popular day walk to Scotts Beach is a short 2 to 3hr hike.
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Suggested Day Walk:
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Kohaihai Shelter to Scotts Beach - 2 hrs return / 7km - start at Kohaihai shelter and follow the river up to the swing bridge. Continue under nikau palms, karaka and rata trees and climb over the saddle to great views over the sea. A small descent takes you to Scotts Beach. Scotts Beach has dangerous currents, avoid swimming here.
HEAPHY TRACK DIFFICULTY
The Heaphy is the longest of the Great Walks and is often completed in 4 days with hikers travelling between 16.2km – 24.2km each day. However, there are many huts and campsites on the track which allow hikers to shorten or lengthen days on the trail to suit fitness and abilities.
Heaphy Track Elevation Profile
HEAPHY TRACK LOGISTICS & BOOKINGS
Before you book anything, secure bookings for the huts/campsites first. The Heaphy Track is not as popular as other Great Walks, so obtaining hut/campsite bookings is much easier (outside of holiday periods). For more information on Department of Conservation (DOC) huts/campsites including tips on how to secure a booking, check out the PLAN & BOOK section above or click the link below.
The Heaphy Track is not a loop track, with the start and end of the track 5hrs 30mins drive apart. Brown Hut and Kohaihai Shelter are quite remote. There are lots of different options including car relocation to the end of the track, bus, and shuttle options. It is also possible to fly close to the track landing at Takaka and Karamea airfields to/from Nelson or Wellington. If considering flying, check available flights for your dates before booking the huts/campsites. All options come at different prices with flying significantly more convenient but also more expensive. Check out the BOOK IT section or click the link below for more information.
Things We Learned
1. The Heaphy Track is so incredibly diverse and the scenery will change quickly and dramatically. From coastal pathways, through goblin forests, to expansive mountainous sections across tussock plains. The hike was super varied and it's easy to see how this Great Walk is a favourite of many New Zealanders.
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2. There is plenty of opportunity for a swim (more like ice plunge) to rinse off the days’ hike and freshen up at each hut. The water got progressively colder as we made our way from Heaphy Hut to the 'Mountain Spa' at Perry Saddle Hut. Some of water holes require a bit of root hopping, climbing, and can be muddy but is oh so worth it to soak sore muscles and feet at the end of the day.​
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3. The mosquitos are mean. They are mainly diabolical at Kohaihai and Heaphy Hut, so get some good sandfly repellant and load up or cover up on these sections.
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4. The section from Brown Hut to Perry Saddle is rocky baby. Many of us were glad to have boots through this section and there were definitely a few near ankle sprains here.
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5. The huts were awesome and very clean. Shout out to the DOC rangers. The big huts Heaphy Hut/James MacKay Hut/ and Perry Saddle Hut had lots of smaller bunk rooms which was nice. The smaller huts are definitely older and more intimate. Heaphy and James MacKay even have flushing toilets attached to the hut which is very luxurious.
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6. There is a good opportunity to see endangered Kiwi and Takahe on the track including the huge carnivorous snail, the Powelliphanta. Keep your eyes peeled.
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7. Even though the Heaphy is the longest Great Walk the huts are really well spaced so you can hike as long or as little as you feel like on your journey.
TIPS From The Crew
​1. Consider which direction you hike. We loved walking from Kohaihai to Brown hut. As this was a long hike over 4 days, we were all carrying extra ‘everything’ in our packs. The first day along the coast to the Heaphy Hut was cruisy meaning we didn't tackle the 20km uphill section until the second day, so were able to reduce some pack weight before the climb.
2. Take swimming gear. The water is cold! But good for the soul.
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3. Getting to some of the swimming holes can require a bit of clambering and can be muddy especially at Perry Saddle. Wear decent footwear to avoid any mishaps on the way.
4. The Lewis Shelter between Heaphy and James MacKay hut is really nice. It's a great little spot after the swing bridges for some rest and food. It would be a great little shelter to warm up on cold and wet days to cook some lunch.
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5. Organising transport was the hardest thing about booking the Heaphy Track because you start on one coast and hike to another. It definitely requires a bit of planning. We wanted to avoid sitting in a shuttle to Nelson for 5-6hrs after the hike, so we opted to fly and hike the track in reverse (from Kohaihai to Brown Hut). Golden Bay Air were awesome to deal with and at the time we booked had half price flights flying from Takaka to Karamea (the least popular route). Golden Bay organised all the transport and helped out one of the crew when they missed their Nelson flights and arranged to fly them direct to Karamea from Wellington. The flight over Kahurangi National Park is only 30mins but really cool.
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6. On our last day the shuttle would pick us up at 11:20am at Brown Hut car park. A few locals had told us it will take the full 5hrs from Perry Saddle down to Brown Hut. Although we were going downhill and figured we would surely be faster? we heeded the advice. We started the last day at 5:30am with head torches and because it was rocky were much slower than expected. We were glad we left early and made it by 11am (with a couple of breaks) and had enough time for a final refreshing swim in the river. There is a track about 1 min from the car park that will take you to a sweet little swimming
spot.
HEAPHY TRACK COMMON QUESTIONS
1. How difficult is the Heaphy Track?
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The Heaphy Track is generally considered a moderate Great Walk. While it is New Zealand's longest Great Walk at 78.4 km, there are no extremely steep climbs like the Routeburn Track or the ascent to Mackinnon Pass on the Milford Track. Most people with a reasonable level of fitness can comfortably complete the track over four to six days.
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2. How long does it take to walk the Heaphy Track?
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Most hikers complete the Heaphy Track in four or five days, although it can be walked in as little as three days by experienced trampers. With several huts located along the trail, there is plenty of flexibility to create an itinerary that suits your fitness level and schedule.
3. Can beginners walk the Heaphy Track?
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Yes. The Heaphy Track is suitable for beginners who have a reasonable level of fitness and are comfortable walking for several hours each day while carrying a backpack. Good preparation, suitable footwear and realistic daily distances will help make the hike more enjoyable.
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4. When is the best time to walk the Heaphy Track?
The Heaphy Track can be walked year-round, making it one of the most versatile Great Walks in New Zealand. Summer offers warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, while autumn and spring are generally quieter. Winter provides a more remote experience but brings colder temperatures and a higher chance of heavy rain.
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5. Can you walk the Heaphy Track in one direction only?
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Yes. The Heaphy Track is a one-way hike, with trailheads at Brown Hut in Golden Bay and Kohaihai on the West Coast. As the start and finish are several hours apart by road, most walkers book a shuttle service or arrange private transport.
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6. Do I need to book huts on the Heaphy Track?
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Yes. During the Great Walk season, all huts and campsites must be booked in advance through the Department of Conservation. Outside the Great Walk season, bookings are still required, although availability is usually much better than on some of New Zealand's more popular Great Walks.
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7. Can you camp on the Heaphy Track?
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Yes. There are several designated campsites along the Heaphy Track that can be booked through the Department of Conservation. Camping is only permitted at these official sites and is not allowed elsewhere along the track.
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8. Are there sandflies on the Heaphy Track?
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Yes. Like much of New Zealand's West Coast, sandflies are common on parts of the Heaphy Track, particularly near the coastline and around some of the huts. Packing insect repellent and wearing long sleeves during calm evenings can make them much more manageable.
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9. Can you mountain bike the Heaphy Track?
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Yes, but only outside the Great Walk season. Mountain biking is generally permitted from 1 May to 30 November. During the Great Walk season (typically 1 December to 30 April), the track is reserved for walkers only.
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10. Is the Heaphy Track worth it?
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Absolutely. If you're looking for a quieter Great Walk with incredible variety, the Heaphy Track is one of New Zealand's best multi-day hikes. From alpine tussock and native beech forest to lush nikau palm groves and rugged West Coast beaches, it offers more diversity than almost any other Great Walk. While it requires more time and transport planning than some of the shorter tracks, many hikers consider it one of New Zealand's most rewarding walking experiences.
