Heaphy Track NZ Guided Walk

View other Guided Walks

Classic Heapy Track - 4½ days Nelson to Nelson

Our 4½ day Heaphy Track NZ Guided walk in Kahurangi National Park is  an all inclusive packages - starting and returning to Nelson. 

We walk the Heaphy Track from the north (Collingwood) end and finish 4½ days later at the Kohaihai River on the West Coast. We stay each night in Department of Conservation huts where your guides prepare a fantastic gourmet meal.

On our way back to Nelson we spend a night in The Alpine Lodge at St Arnaud for a taste of well-deserved luxury; an ensuite and the option of a spa before we sit down to a restaurant meal. The following day we transfer back to Nelson, arriving around 11am, just in time for any connecting flights, or an opportunity to explore Nelson further.

We have become known as the gourmet guided walk company, not only because of the high standard of food that is presented, (we cater for all dietary requirements) but also the personal, relaxed and friendly style of trips we orchestrate, with an emphasis on your comfort and enjoyment of the experience.

Whether it is information on the flora and fauna, conservation gems along the way or just the great company of your group and guides.

Depending on your preference, you can opt for the Classic Heaphy Track 4½ day or Heaphy Track 5½ day option - the 5½ day tour splits one of the longer days in half and makes for an overall easier trip.

Tour Grading: Medium

• No hiking experience necessary.
• Reasonable agility and fitness required.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Brown Hut to Perry Saddle Hut (approx. 17.5km/5 Hours) 

Pick up at accommodation in Nelson at 7.30am and travel to Brown Hut (beginning of the track) - briefings etc.

The track gradually climbs through Podocarp and beech forest to Flanagan's Corner (your highest point on the track at 915m). Grand views of Aorere Valley can be seen with Mt Taranaki visible on a clear day. From here a gentle stroll on to Perry Saddle Hut, this is 880 metres above sea level and has bunk-style accommodation for 26.

Day 2 - Perry Saddle Hut to James Mackay Hut                                               (approx. 24.2km/7-8 hours)

After a hearty breakfast, the BIG day begins by following Perry Creek through tussock clearings and scattered beech forest until the valley widens and the open Gouland Downs can be seen sprawling toward the West Coast.

The track passes the famous boot pole and gently undulates across the downs, eventually climbing gradually past Saxon Hut onto the edges of Mackay Downs. From here, there are glimpses of the mouth of the Heaphy River and the Tasman Sea. It is not long before the 26 bunk James Mackay Hut is reached, perched on a bench above the track. 

Day 3 - James Mackay Hut to Heaphy Hut (approx. 20.5km/6-7 hours)

The track from Mackay Hut descends gradually to the Heaphy River through beech and subtropical Podocarp forest to the Lewis Hut. From here the track meanders along the banks of the Heaphy River, passing giant rata trees.

The 20 bunk Heaphy Hut, our accommodation for the evening, is situated close to both river and sea.

Day 4 - Heaphy Hut to Kohaihai (approx. 16.2km - 5 hours)

Walk from the Heaphy Hut along a coastline studded with Nikau groves to the track's end at the Kohaihai River. Some beach walking is possible at low tide. This is a spectacular coastal walk -one of NZ's best day walks - to complete your Heaphy adventure.

Our van meets you at the Kohaihai River mouth where we transfer you to the stunning Nelson Lakes National Park (around 3 hours drive) and our overnight accommodation at the Alpine Lodge.

Accommodation: The Alpine Lodge at St Arnaud - hotel-style accommodation and restaurant dining.

Day 5 - Transfers

Enjoy final breakfast with group before transferring to Nelson. Arriving in Nelson around lunchtime to connect with flights or deliver to accommodation.

NOTE: The accommodation on the track is Department of Conservation huts - these are comfortable but must be shared with other walkers. Guests carry their own pack containing clothing and bedding plus own snack pack and utensils (last two items supplied). Guides carry all food and cooking utensils.
Back to Top