Heaphy track

2010 / 2011 Season

KAHuRANGI NATIONAL PARK
Contents
Introduction 3
Location 3
Getting there 3
When can I walk the track? 4
Can I do it? 5
Other activities 5
Planning, preparation and equipment 6
Weather 7
What to take 8
DOC huts and campsites 10
Transport options 10
Track notes 11
Track profile 12
Safety and track closure 15
Track map 16
Booking information and conditions 18
History 24
Natural history 25
Conservation projects/DOC management 27
Environmental Care Code 29
Commercial operators 29
Other publications 31
DOC contact details 32
Introduction
The Heaphy Track, located in Kahurangi National Park
at the north-west corner of the South Island, is the
longest of the DOC Great Walks*. Some key points are:
For 78.4 kilometres the track crosses the Park’s range of
landscapes, starting from the junction of the Brown and
Aorere Rivers, over expansive tussock downs to the lush
forests, nikau palms and roaring seas of the West Coast.
The track is classified as a walking track, being well formed
and suitable for fit, well-equipped people. All rivers and
major streams are bridged. The track takes four to six days
to walk. There are huts and campsites where you can stay
for a fee. Bookings are required.
*Great Walks are the Department’s premier walking
tracks, through areas of some of the best scenery in
the country. The huts and tracks on the Great Walks are
of a higher standard than other tramping tracks. Many
of the Great Walks have booking systems to manage
visitor pressure.
Location
The nearest towns that cater
for trampers are Nelson,
Takaka, Westport and
Karamea. Karamea has an
information centre, petrol
station, accommodation, cafés
and restaurants, supermarket
and general store, and a range
of transport options. Takaka
has an i-Site, petrol stations,
supermarket, small sport/camping and hardware stores
as well as cafés and accommodation. Collingwood has a
petrol station, small grocery store, shops, cafés, a pub and
accommodation.
Getting there
You can start the Heaphy Track either from Brown Hut,
Golden Bay or from Kohaihai, West Coast. Both ends of
the track are accessible by road and have telephones;
local calls for transport are free.
Public transport services both ends of the track. For details,
see transport contacts listed under Commercial Operators
(see page 29) or contact i-Sites for more information.
Private transport
• To reach the eastern end of the track, take the road up
the Aorere Valley from Collingwood. From Collingwood
to Brown Hut is 28 km. Three small creeks must be
forded on the way; do not attempt to cross these when
the river is in flood. The fords may remain impassable for
several days, blocking access to and from the track.
• To reach the western end, head north from Karamea for
15 km to the carpark and campsite at the Kohaihai River.
When can I walk the track?
The Heaphy Track is open all year. Transport, activity,
equipment and accommodation businesses operate in the
summer. Some businesses do not operate in winter.
All huts and campsites must be booked all year round.
Bookings can be made online at www.doc.govt.nz or by
post, fax, email, phone and in person at i-Sites, DOC visitor
centres or DOC agents. Booking fees may apply.
In the summer peak season (October to April) DOC
rangers rotate among the huts while in winter DOC rangers
are on the track or at the huts less frequently.
Perry Saddle Hut. Photo: Markus Baumann
Can I do it?
To ensure you enjoy your trip in all weathers, you will need
to be fit and have good equipment. We recommend that
walkers start a fitness programme at least two months
before departure and practise carrying a full pack up and
down stairs or hills.
You can expect:
• to walk 78.4 km
• carry a pack of up to 15 kg
• for a 4-day trip, walk up to 24 km per day
• for a 5-day trip, walk up to 21 km per day
• parts of the track have a hard and uneven walking
surface
• at least one day of rain while on the track.
Other activities
Mountain-biking
Mountain-biking is not permitted on the Heaphy Track. At
the time this publication went to print the New Zealand
Conservation Authority is considering a recommendation to
allow mountain biking as a seasonal trial on the track.
Hunting
No hunting is allowed within one kilometre either side of the
Heaphy Track. The remaining area of Kahurangi National
Park, hunting is by permit only. For hunting permits on the
eastern side of the Heaphy Track, contact Nelson Regional
Visitor Centre or DOC Golden Bay. For permits on the
western side of the Heaphy Track, contact DOC Westport.
Domestic animals
To protect ground-dwelling birds, no domestic animals are
permitted in Kahurangi National Park.
Dogs
In general, dogs are not allowed in national parks. Only
seeing-eye dogs and dogs working with Search and
Rescue are allowed on the Heaphy Track.
Horses
No horses are allowed on the track.
 Planning, preparation and equipment
Plan, prepare and equip yourself well. Have the right
gear and skills required for the trip and always check
the latest information about facilities you plan to use and
local weather conditions. The DOC web site has the latest
information on the Heaphy Track. Go to www.doc.govt.nz
and follow these headings; parks and recreation/plan and
prepare/alerts/Nelson/Marlborough. This information is
also displayed on visitor centre notice boards.

Trip intentions
Before setting out on your trip, remember to inform a
reliable person of your intentions. Check in with them on
or after your return. If you are overdue, they should contact
the police. Fill in hut books at each hut and include your
intentions for the rest of your trip.

Tides
At Crayfish (Koura) Point the route can be impassable two
hours or so either side of high tide when sea conditions
are rough. Check tide tables in the Heaphy Hut or Kohaihai
Shelter before proceeding over this section.
Safety
Be ready and have the right equipment for heavy rain,
flooded streams and cold winds.
Track across Gouland Downs. Photo: Steve Sutton
Weather
Weather on the Heaphy Track is changeable. Annual
rainfall averages over 4000 mm. Heavy rain can occur with
little warning and even small streams are dangerous in
flood. Be prepared for rain, snow and coastal storms.

Sandflies
Sandflies are tiny black insects which cause itchy bites.
Cover up and use insect repellent.
Giardia
Giardia has not been found in waters along the track but
its presence cannot be dismissed. To avoid giardia, water
should be boiled, chemically treated or filtered.
Rubbish
No rubbish facilities are provided. Carry out all your rubbish
from the park. Do not put plastic or foil bags in fireplaces
because they do not burn cleanly.
Cellphones
Generally cellphone coverage is poor and unreliable.
On the beach near the Heaphy River-mouth coverage is
usually available.
Weather Information at Bainham (closest
weather station to the Heaphy Track)
Average Average Average
daily high daily low number of
temp °C temp °C rainy days
July 13 1 13
August 14 3 14
September 15 5 14
October 17 6 15
November 19 8 13
December 21 10 12
January 22 11 11
February 23 11 9
March 20 9 10
April 18 7 12
May 16 4 13
June 14 2 13

What to take
The Heaphy Track traverses a range of landscapes from
exposed alpine tussock downs to coastal forest. To cope
with the varied conditions you need a range of equipment
for warm, cold, windy or wet conditions. You will need
at least one set of clothes to walk in and another dry set
to change into at night. Cotton clothing, such as jeans,
T-shirts and sweatshirts, is not suitable. Wool and modern
synthetics are better as they dry quickly and give more
warmth.
• first aid kit: insect repellent, personal medication (e.g.
antihistamine for allergy to wasp stings)
• toilet gear: toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, small
towel, soap
• earplugs (optional—you will be sharing huts and/or
campsites with other people)
• food should be lightweight, fast cooking and high in
energy value, e.g.
• breakfast: cereal, firm bread, spreads

You should take: • lunch: cracker biscuits, cheese, salami

• boots (must be comfortable and well broken in) • dinner: instant soup, pasta/rice, dried vegetables/fruit,
cheese or dehydrated meals
• socks (wool/synthetic—2 pairs)
Take a spare day’s food in case of delay due to flooded
• shorts (cotton/nylon) creeks.
• shirt (wool/synthetic)
• long johns/trousers (wool/synthetic)
• jersey/jacket (wool/polar fleece)
• undershirts/T-shirt (wool/synthetic)
• sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen
• mittens/gloves and hat (wool/synthetic)
• raincoat (waterproof and windproof with hood)
• extra socks, underwear, shirt or lightweight jersey
• pack with large waterproof/plastic liner
• must have Hut or Camp Accommodation Ticket
• map and Heaphy Track booklet
• sleeping bag (good quality down or Hollofil®)
Time to refuel on way to Perry Saddle Hut. Photo: Steve Sutton
• tent and sleeping mat (for campers)
• matches/lighter (in waterproof container)
• torch and spare batteries
• candles
• drink bottle
• cooking stove and spare fuel (for campers or huts
without gas)
• cooking utensils: pot/pan/billy, pot scrubber
• eating utensils: knife, fork, spoon, plate, cup
 DOC huts and campsites
DOC provides seven huts and nine campsites.
For a four-day, three-night trip, most walkers stay at Perry
Saddle, James Mackay and Heaphy Huts.
For a five-day, four-night trip, most walkers stay at Perry
Saddle, Saxon, James Mackay and Heaphy Huts.
A popular two-day, one-night trip on the western side is
from Kohaihai to Heaphy Hut and return to Kohaihai.

Huts
All huts have heating, toilets, bunks, mattresses and water.
Gas cooking facilities are available at Perry Saddle, Saxon,
James Mackay, Lewis and Heaphy Huts but not at Brown
and Gouland Downs Huts. No huts have lighting or pots
and pans. Backcountry Hut Tickets and Backcountry Hut
Passes are not valid for use on the Heaphy Track. Hut
spaces need to be booked. Overnight stays in huts along
the Heaphy Track are limited to two consecutive nights
at any one hut. School groups, guided walking groups
and independent walkers can stay at huts. Please be
considerate of other visitors. Hut users are expected to
leave huts clean and tidy and take their rubbish out with
them.
Campsites
Campsites need to be booked. Overnight stays in
campsites along the Heaphy Track are limited to two
consecutive nights at any one campsite. Campers are not
permitted to use hut facilities. All campsites have a water
supply and toilets; some campsites have fireplaces. Open
fires are only permitted where fireplaces are provided.
School groups, guided walking groups and independent
walkers can stay at campsites. Please be considerate to
other visitors. Campers are expected to leave campsites
clean and tidy and take their rubbish out with them.
Transport options
The Heaphy Track is not a circuit track; the ends of the
track are 463 km apart by road. Bus and taxi services
are available to reach either end of the track from nearby
towns. Regular bus services link Nelson and Westport.
Air services make it possible to walk the track one way
and return by air to near your starting point. Air services
Dinner at Perry Saddle Hut. Photo: D Parr
are also available to Golden Bay from Auckland and
Wellington. For details about transport services, car
re-location and luggage transport and storage, contact
transport operators or i-Sites directly. (See list on page 29.)
Track notes
This is an east to west description of the track. The times
quoted are only approximate.
Brown Hut to Perry Saddle Hut, 5 h, 17.5 km
Brown Hut has bunk space for 16. About 180 metres
upstream from the hut, cross the bridge over the Brown
River, then a grass flat, before winding up a well-defined
track and into the bush.
The track climbs gradually, following a route once surveyed
for a road. After 4 hours, Aorere shelter is reached. From
here, the Aorere valley is seen extending northwards and
on clear days it is possible to see Mt Taranaki/Egmont.
Thirty minutes before Perry Saddle Hut, a short track leads
to a viewpoint at Flanagans Corner. At 915 metres, this is
the highest point on the track.
Perry Saddle Hut is 880 metres above sea level and has
bunk accommodation for 24. Near the hut in Gorge Creek
is a deep but cold pool, popular for bathing.
Perry Saddle to Gouland Downs Hut, 2 h, 7 km
From Perry Saddle Hut, cross Perry Saddle and sidle
above Perry Creek through tussock clearings and patches
of beech. Soon the valley widens and the track climbs a A section on Mackay Downs floods in extremely wet
small rise to where the open downs are revealed stretching conditions. This is a 70 metre piece of the track across a
out to the west. wetland and a bridge. It becomes impassable and quite
dangerous. Walkers should wait for the water to recede.
The track meanders easily down to Cave Brook, passing
the famed pole to which trampers have tied old boots over The track now skirts the edge of Mackay Downs to
the years. Just beyond the brook is Gouland Downs Hut, James Mackay Hut, winding in and out of several small
which has 8 bunks and lots of atmosphere. streams, just before they tumble off the downs and fall to
the Heaphy River on the left. The vegetation is alternately
Nearby, a small patch of beech grows on a limestone
tussock field and shrub-fringed patches of beech forest.
outcrop which has escaped erosion. This area is worth
Small creeks dissect the landscape and the pink granite
exploring. The track crosses one of several limestone
sparkles and crunches beneath your feet.
arches, which are the remnants of old caves. Nearby, a
small waterfall flows out of another cave passage. The hut is named after the explorer who first pressed for
a bridle track to be established between Collingwood and
Gouland Downs Hut to Saxon Hut, 1 h 30 min, 5.4 km the West Coast. It has 26 bunks and is situated just above
Beyond Gouland Downs Hut the track is relatively level as it the track on an open terrace. The Tasman Sea and Heaphy
crosses the northern part of Gouland Downs. The tussock River mouth can be seen from here, 15 km to the west and
country and riverbeds make for good exploring but, when 750 metres below.
the mist lowers, the featureless downs can be confusing
James Mackay Hut to Lewis Hut, 3 h 30 min, 12.5 km
and it is easy to become disorientated.
Beyond James Mackay Hut, the downs landscape ends
Saxon Hut, nestled near the end of the downs, is the
and a gradual descent to the Heaphy River begins. The
newest on the track. It sleeps 16 and is named after John
track is through beech forest at first but soon the richer and
Saxon, who surveyed the track in 1886.
taller forest typical of the West Coast becomes dominant.
Saxon Hut to James Mackay Hut, 3 h, 11.8 km Occasional tantalising glimpses of the Heaphy River
From Saxon Hut the track drops slightly to grassy flats below are seen through the forest; the sounds of rushing
beside the Saxon River. After the flats, the track climbs water grow louder and suddenly the hut is reached, at the
gently up to a broad ridge, which joins Gouland Downs to junction of the Heaphy River with the smaller Lewis River.
Mackay Downs and marks the boundary between Nelson Sandflies and the first nikau palms appear around Lewis
and the West Coast. Hut, which sleeps 20. Charles Lewis was a Collingwood
surveyor who, in the 1880s, was first to investigate
Mackay’s proposed bridle route.
Track profile

East West
Perry Saddle Saxon Hut
Hut Shelter
Aorere Shelter Gouland Downs James Mackay Hut Kohaihai
Brown Hut Campsite Toilet
3500
1000 Campsite (not Carpark
Great Walk booked) 3000
Kohaihai
800 2500
Bluff
Altitude (metres)

Altitude (feet)

Katipo Creek
600 Lewis Hut Scotts 2000
Shelter
Beach
Heaphy Hut 1500
400 Crayfish
(Koura) 1000
Point
200
500
0 0
5 h, 17.5 km 2 h, 7 km 1 h 30 min, 5.4 km 3 h, 11.8 km 3 h 30 min, 12.5 km 2 h 30 min 5 h, 16.2 km
8 km
Lewis Hut to Heaphy Hut, 2 h 30 min, 8 km
From Lewis Hut, head back up the track for a short
distance to a junction. Turn left and walk over a ridge to a
footbridge. Cross the Lewis River here, then follow the right
bank of the Heaphy River to another bridge.
The track crosses the Heaphy here and continues
along the left bank to the river mouth through a forest of
kahikatea, rimu and rata. Glossy-leaved shrubs perch
precariously in the tall trees, flourishing in the abundant
light and extracting nutrients from humus (accumulated
plant debris) in their hosts’ branches.
In dry spells, the sluggish river meanders along peacefully,
but in times of heavy rain especially when it’s high tide, Walking out from Heaphy Hut. Photo: Steve Sutton
sections of the track and bridges get flooded. In a area of
limestone and karst locally known as Cave Stream about Soon Scotts Beach is reached, the clearing here is a good
fifteen minutes before Heaphy Hut, floods after periods of spot to rest before climbing over Kohaihai Saddle and down
heavy rain. Extra care is required at both places in flood through wind-blasted shrubs to a bridge across the Kohaihai
conditions and walkers should wait for the water to recede. River. The track follows the riverbank for 400 metres to
Towards the river mouth, nikau palms become more Kohaihai carpark where there is a shelter and phone.
common, the sea’s incessant roaring grows louder and,
in some conditions, small waves can be seen running up-
Safety and track closure
river. Heaphy Hut is situated far enough back from the sea
to be spared the worst of the winds. It accommodates 28. You should contact Department
The river mouth is at the junction of two pounamu of Conservation staff in the event
(greenstone) trails and archaeological work has uncovered of any injury or illness. They will
evidence of occupation by Maori that extends back be able to contact Police Search
500 years. In 1905, an extensive European settlement was and Rescue to arrange emergency
surveyed in the lower valley, but it was never built. evacuation from the track if required.

Heaphy Hut to Kohaihai River Shelter, 5 h, 16.2 km Heavy rainfall may:

The Heaphy River mouth is an exciting place. The river
surges out through a narrow gap into the sea; in-coming
waves halt the flow and the churning of salt and fresh
waters is spectacular.
The track south to Kohaihai is through forest although
beach walking is possible in some places. Some of the
small streams are not bridged and can be dangerous after
heavy rain. The forest has rata and karaka trees, many
vines and groves of nikau palms. Be careful of the stinging
nettle that grows in places.
Just beyond Katipo Creek is Crayfish (Koura) Point. There
is no high tide track over the point and where the track
follows the top of the beach can be impassable two hours
or so either side of high tide when sea conditions are
rough. Check tide tables in the Heaphy Hut or Kohaihai
Shelter before proceeding over this section.
• stop vehicle access to Brown Hut, at the eastern end
of the track. Walkers due to start on the track may be
unable to proceed onto the track. If this is the case, a full
refund or a rebooking will be given
• cause flooded creeks to become impassable. Water
can rise to waist height. Don’t attempt to cross flooded
creeks; they may be dangerous. You should retreat to
a hut and wait for the rain to ease. Wait until the creek
subsides and it’s safe to continue your trip. Check every
few hours as the water can drop quickly. If there is a hut
warden, discuss your trip options.
In the winter you must be totally self sufficient. DOC
rangers are less frequent on the track and some of the
transport operators close. Take your own cooker and gas
in case the hut gas supply has run out. Leave intentions
of your trip with a reliable person and consider carrying a
Mountain Radio and/or Personal Locator Beacon (PLB).
 Heavy rainfall may
KEY 0 5 10 cause flooding and
Hut stop vehicle access
kilometres to Brown Hut.
Shelter

Anaw
Flooding may occur
Campsite on Mackay Downs in
Campsite (not Great Walk To Collingwood extremely wet
a

ek
booked) conditions and this
Picnic site Ri may cause delays.

ve
Carpark Lewis Hut to Heaphy

r
Brown Hut. Some sections

Big
Information Hut of track in the
Telephone Mackay Downs Heaphy River valley

Ri v
r flood after heavy rain

e
and this may cause
delays.
Saxon Hut Cellphone coverage
Aorere
r

James Mackay
ve

is usually available
Shelter
Ri

Hut on the beach near

is the Heaphy River-
w Gouland
Le Gouland Downs Perry Saddle mouth.

AO
Downs At Crayfish (Koura)
R

RER E
VE
RI
Point the route can
be impassable two
Tubman Hill hours or so either
Gou
Lewis Hut l and C re side of high tide

RIV E R
ek Mt Gouland when sea conditions
are rough. Check
Y tide tables in the
H

Heaphy Hut or
AP

Kohaihai Shelter
Gu
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before proceeding
er
nn

Heaphy over this section.

Ri
Bluff ve
r
Heaphy Hut

Mt Barr
Gunner Downs
Number of Number of
bunks campers
Katipo Creek
Shelter Brown 16 20
Crayfish
(Koura) Aorere Shelter – 8
r
ve

Point Perry Saddle 24 10

Ri
ai

Gouland Downs 8 10
ih

Scotts
ha

Beach Saxon 16 10
Ko

Kohaihai James Mackay 26 8

Bluff
Lewis 20 –
ver

Kohaihai Shelter
Heaphy 28 40
O pa rara R i

Katipo Creek Shelter – 10

Scotts Beach – 20

To Karamea
 Booking information and conditions
How to book
All huts and campsites must be booked in advance all year
round. Bookings can be made online or by post, fax, email,
phone, or in person at selected DOC offices, i-Sites and
visitor centres. A booking fee may apply.
Before booking
It is strongly recommended that you read the Heaphy Track
brochure before proceeding to the online bookings page,
particularly
• Can I do it?
• What to take
• DOC huts and campsites
• Safety and track closure
• Booking terms and conditions.
To make a booking online
You can make a booking online through the DOC website
www.doc.govt.nz
The online system will allow you 25 minutes to complete
your booking from the time you select the huts and
campsites you wish to book. If a booking is not completed
within 25 minutes the places will be released.
You will require the following information:
• which huts and/or campsites, number of tents, and
which dates you wish to book
• name, age and country of residence of each person in
your party
• credit card (Visa or MasterCard only) to which payment
will be charged via the ANZ Bank online secure payment
system. (The Department of Conservation will not hold
your credit card details. Personal information will be
used for booking purposes only and will not be handed
out to any third parties.)
To make a manual booking
Complete the booking form attached in the middle of this
brochure and forward it via fax or mail, or email or phone
the Great Walks Helpdesk Nelson. A booking fee will
James Mackay Hut. Photo: Mal Hansen
apply. Contact details are listed on the back page of this
booklet. If you can, check the hut and campsite availability.
Manual bookings cannot be made without full payment of
accommodation fees in New Zealand dollars.
Commercial groups
A concession (an official authorisation) is required to
operate any commercial activity in an area managed by the
Department of Conservation. Concessions are required for
but not restricted to: guiding (including tramping, walking,
fishing, hunting, climbing/ski tours, kayaking/canoeing);
transport services; commercial education or instruction
activities.
DOC huts and campsites on the Heaphy Track can be
booked by commercial operators who have a concession.
For more information regarding concessions, visit
www.doc.govt.nz
Terms and Conditions
Bookings not meeting the following Terms and Conditions
are treated as invalid, and will be reversed (cancelled) by
the Department of Conservation.
General
• Bookings can only be made for people intending to use
the facility/ies / service/s at the time of booking.
• A booking is required for each adult, youth, child and
infant intending to use a facility or service.
• The given name, family name, age, gender and
nationality of each party member must be entered at the
time of booking.
• Bookings are not transferable from one person/entity to
another.
• Names listed on the booking as using facility/ies /
service/s may not be substituted unless approved via
a Department of Conservation office. Substitution of all
or the majority of names listed on a booking will not be
approved.
• Those persons named on the booking may be required
to produce proof of identity when collecting tickets or
accessing facilities/services booked. Accepted forms
of ID are a passport, driver’s licence, credit card or
student ID.
• Commercial and/or guided groups are not permitted
to use Department of Conservation facilities/services
unless authorised by the Department of Conservation
via a Concession or other agreement.
• Commercial Agents wishing to make multiple bookings
for facilities/services on behalf of customers must hold
an Agent agreement with or obtain permission from the
Department of Conservation.
Age ranges
• For booking purposes the following age classifications
apply to all services provided by the Department of
Conservation (DOC):
Infant Child Youth Adult
0–4 years 5–10 years 11–17 years 18 years plus
• Services provided by other organisations may use other
age ranges. Please check the particular services you
require.
• Persons aged 14 years and under must be
accompanied by an adult
• Alpine sections of some tracks are not recommended
for children under 10 years. Please check the specific
track information on the website.
Prices
• All prices are in New Zealand dollars and include GST
(Goods and Services Tax).
• Bookings made Online will automatically be charged to
your credit card through the ANZ Bank secure payment
network at the time the booking is made.
• Accepted credit cards are Mastercard and Visa.
• Credit Card information is not held by DOC for security
reasons and must be resupplied if alterations or
cancellations are made through a DOC office.
• No bookings will be accepted without payment.
• Prices, transport timetables and other details may
change without notice.
Discounts
• A 10% discount is available for members of NZ
Federated Mountain Club, NZ Deer Stalkers Association,
LandSAR and NZ Mountain Safety Council Staff and
Instructors who hold a Backcountry Hut Pass.
• You can’t get these discounts when you book online.
Instead, supply your membership details/number and
Backcountry Hut Pass number to the office listed on the
track information on www.doc.govt.nz, along with the
details of what you want to book.
• No other discounts are available.
Penalty rates—for non-valid and un-booked
accommodation on walking tracks
• Failure to have a valid booking for a facility/service
for the date of use will result in penalty fees being
charged in addition to the usual accommodation fee,
and where there is no valid booking, the Department
of Conservation does not guarantee access to that, or
other, facilities/services on the track.
• The Penalty rate is the Age rate plus the full adult fee
Alterations and cancellation policies
General
• Booking refunds will only be made to the person/ agent
who made the original booking.
• No refunds will be provided in cash.
• Credit card details are not held by the Department
of Conservation and will have to be resubmitted to
the Department of Conservation office making your
alteration, transfer or cancellation by phone, fax
or mail. Sending credit card details by email is not
recommended for security reasons.

Heaphy Hut. Photo: Markus Baumann
Transfer of booking dates
• Transferring dates of a booking may only be done within
the current booking period. Those wishing to change the
start date of their booking to a date where bookings are
not open must cancel their booking and rebook once
bookings are open.
• Where bookings are transferred to a date to which a
higher fee / price period applies the difference in fees
must be paid at the time of the transfer being made.
• Where bookings are transferred to a date to which a
lower fee/ price period applies the difference will be
refunded less cancellation fees. The cancellation fee
will be calculated as per the table below. Credit card
details must be supplied so transfer and refund can be
processed.
Alterations via internet
Selected alterations and transfers that will not affect:
1. the cost or
2. change the facilities/services booked or
3. the people booked into those facilities/services,
can be made online up to two days prior to departure. After
this date you must contact the Department of Conservation
office listed on the confirmation letter/receipt. You are unable
to add services or people to your booking. Instead you
must make another booking or contact the Department of
Conservation office listed on the confirmation letter/receipt.
Alterations via DOC office
• Alterations may be made to any existing booking and
may incur a fee of up to $10.
• Altering/transferring booking dates 1 to 2 days prior to
start date will incur 100% cancellation fee.
Cancellations due to DOC closures
• If the Department of Conservation closes a facility/service
due to severe weather or facility/service conditions,
a full refund of the fee for the unused Department of
Conservation facilities/services will be given.
• Those visitors who have already started their trip/
booking may be required to leave before their trip/
booking is completed.
• If your trip is cancelled by the Department of
Conservation you must contact the Department of
Conservation office listed on your confirmation letter
within 7 days to obtain your refund or reschedule your
trip. NO refund will be given after this time and trips will
not be rescheduled.
• Visitors will only be rescheduled if there are vacancies
available once the service reopens.
Cancellations by visitors
• If visitor/agent cancels their bookings the following
cancellation fees apply.
• These fees are not negotiable.
Cancellation fees are based on the earliest Cancellation
start date* fee
More than 10 days before the start date and within
48 hours of making the booking
0%
More than 10 days before the start date and more
25%
than 48 hours after making the booking
Between 3 and 10 days before the start date 50%
Between 1 and 2 days before the start date 100%
On or after the start date 100%
Medical circumstances that prevent customer walking
track — must be accompanied by a medical certificate 20%
and requested within one month of the departure date
Booked Transport more than 24 hours prior to departure 0%
Booked Transport less than 24 hours prior to departure
100%
or on day of departure or after departure date
* Note: If the booking has been transferred to a later date then the original
start date will be used for cancellation calculation purposes.
Travel insurance Controversy arose in the early 1970s over a proposed
road from Collingwood to the West Coast which would
• The Department of Conservation recommends that you
have partly followed the line of the track. This proposal
arrange travel insurance to guard against the loss of
was dropped after strong opposition from tramping and
costs associated with cancellation or delay of your trip.
conservation groups.
• The Department of Conservation is unable to rearrange
Now a Great walk in Kahurangi National Park the Heaphy
non Department of Conservation booked transport,
Track continues to provide a unique overland route between
accommodation and flight bookings if delays should
Golden Bay and the West Coast.
occur.

Liability disclaimer
Natural history
• The Department of Conservation will not be liable for
injury, damage or any costs incurred by visitors. Trees and plants, east to west
The first section of the track climbs through a beautiful
forest dominated by red and silver beech. Tiny orchids
History grow on the forest floor, many of them flowering in summer.
At higher levels the trees are stunted and mountain beech
For many generations, Golden Bay Maori travelled appears near Perry Saddle.
to central Westland, where they sought pounamu
Beyond the saddle are the Gouland Downs, a remnant of an
(greenstone) for tools, weapons and ornaments. They
earlier New Zealand, eroded to a nearly flat surface known as
followed a trail over Gouland Downs from the Aorere to
a peneplain and then uplifted to form a plateau. At 500 million
the Whakapoai (Heaphy River) and also travelled the years, the rocks here are among New Zealand’s oldest.
treacherous coast north of the Heaphy River mouth, risking
wave-swept beaches and rounding huge bluffs using flax The rolling areas of red tussock with occasional patches of
ladders. stunted silver beech are a spectacular sight, and somewhat
eerie when the clouds lower. Mountain flax, stunted shrubs
The track is named after Charles Heaphy. In 1846, while and small herbs live among the sheltering tussocks. Rushes
a draughtsman with the New Zealand Company, he and and tangle fern dominate in the most infertile, boggy places
Thomas Brunner, a surveyor with the company, were the where tiny sundews catch insects on sticky droplets,
first recorded Europeans to traverse the coastal portion of absorbing valuable nutrients from their quarry. Several
the modern track. At the time, they were on an exploratory plants found on the downs occur nowhere else, including a
trip along the west coast with Maori guides, Kehu and Tau. yellow-flowered asphodel and a small native foxglove.
The inland portion of the route remained uncrossed by
Europeans for more than a decade after Heaphy’s party’s
coastal trek. A gold miner named Aldridge is believed to
have traversed it first, in 1859. In 1862 James Mackay, a
warden on the Collingwood goldfields and John and Arthur
Knyvett blazed the first marked route, however the present
line of the track was not defined until 1885 when it was
surveyed for a cart road by J B Saxon for the Collingwood
County Council and the Public Works Department. A
horse track was subsequently formed and was maintained
by the Collingwood County Council. However by 1900
it was overgrown and infrequently used. Following the
establishment of the North-west Nelson Forest Park in
1965, the track was cleared and substantially upgraded
by the New Zealand Forest Service to meet the upsurge of
public interest in tramping.
Heaphy River swingbridge. Photo: Tess James

Koura Beach. Photo: Markus Baumann
Beyond Gouland Downs, the track skirts the Mackay
Downs through more tussockland and patches of beech.
The bedrock here is glistening pink granite with large black
and white crystals of mica and quartz.
From James Mackay Hut the track descends, passing
initially through beech. Below an altitude of about
300 metres, the forest changes and podocarps—the
fleshyfruited New Zealand “pine” trees—appear, often
emerging high above their broadleaved neighbours. The
most common is rimu, but miro, kahikatea and matai will
also be seen. Beech is no longer the main canopy species
at this level. Other broad-leaved species, such as rata,
mahoe, kamahi, pigeonwood, hinau, pokaka and pukatea,
appear, adding diversity to the forest. Undergrowth is
generally richer than at higher altitude too. Kiekie, supplejack
and rata vines twist their way upwards, while many small
shrubs and ferns jostle for light near the forest floor.
At the Lewis River junction the first nikau palms appear.
The track continues through a bright and vine-festooned
forest, following the naturally tannin-stained Heaphy River
to its mouth.
The final section of the track skirts the beach and has
both a subtropical and a sub-Antarctic feel to it; while the
forest is very lush with many large-leaved glossy plants
and vines, the cold sea is far from inviting, running far up
the beaches and pounding the rocky points. Tight clumps
of wiry shrubs huddle together, their wind-sculpted forms
testifying to the wind’s strength and direction.
Wildlife
Weka, tui, bellbird, pigeon and robin are a few of the native
birds which are readily seen. You may also see the large
parrots—kea and kaka—the smaller parakeet and the blue
duck. With luck and a bit more commitment it is possible to
see, or at least hear, the great spotted kiwi and morepork.
Long-tailed bats are seen more rarely coming out at dusk
to feed in the open on insects. They locate their prey using
echolocation, sending out sound pulses inaudible to
humans, which bounce back off anything in their path. This
bat and the rarer short-tailed bat were New Zealand’s only
land mammals before the arrival of people. Both are now
threatened by destruction of their habitat and introduced
predators, such as rats and stoats. Any bat sightings
should be reported to DOC.
Kahurangi National Park harbours half of New Zealand’s
40 species of carnivorous land snail (Powelliphanta).
Several may be seen along the track, particularly near
limestone outcrops where there is enough calcium to
nourish their sizeable shells. They shelter during the day
and come out on damp nights to feed on native worms,
which grow up to a metre long.
A number of animals brought to New Zealand by European
settlers have become established in the national park. Deer
numbers are low, while pigs (which eat Powelliphanta),
goats and hares have yet to spread to the west of the park
in any numbers.
Damage to forests near the track is minimal except on
the West Coast, where possums have an impact on
mature rata trees. Possums are also known to feed on
Powelliphanta. All native wildlife in the park is protected.
Taking live snails or their empty shells is prohibited. (See
page 28 for more information on Powelliphanta.)
Conservation projects/
DOC management
Great spotted kiwi
Kiwi were widespread throughout New Zealand. With
few natural predators these birds had evolved into large,
flightless creatures which were particularly vulnerable when
people arrived and introduced mammalian predators such
as dogs, cats, stoats and ferrets.
Today there are several species of kiwi still surviving on the
mainland but all are threatened with extinction. In some
areas, kiwi are managed very intensively—eggs and chicks
are removed to pest-free zones, raised and returned to the
wild when strong enough to survive on their own.
The great spotted kiwi is the species pesent in Kahurangi
and is the largest of all. Kiwi surveys at Gouland Downs take
place every five years and results show that it appears
to be “holding its own”. Young birds have also been seen. Protect plants and animals
With this information there seems little need for intensive Remove rubbish
management in the wild and translocations from Gouland Bury toilet waste
Downs have allowed new populations to be established Keep waterways clean
elsewhere. Do not use soap in streams
Take care with fires
Before your trip, you
Great spotted kiwi live within Camp carefully
can hear the noise of the national park, particularly Keep to the track
a female great spotted in the area around Gouland Consider others
kiwi on a website; go to Downs. You may hear the birds Respect our cultural heritage
www.whatbird.co.nz and calling at night from the Perry Enjoy your visit
Toitu te whenua (leave the land undisturbed)
then select “Kiwis” from theSaddle, Gouland Downs and
Family question; then selectSaxon huts. Male great spotted
“Kiwi – Great Spotted”.
kiwi make a shrill, repeated,
drawn-out whistle whereas the
female makes a harsh, low “churr”. Keep an eye out for Commercial operators
kiwi feathers caught in vegetation along track edges, kiwi
footprints in snow, probe holes where the birds have been
digging with their powerful bills in search of grubs and Transport and activities
worms, and kiwi poo, which resembles a big squeeze of
brown toothpaste. Bus/other transport

Powelliphanta land snails Golden Bay Coachlines

Most Powelliphanta species occur in North-west Nelson
and north Westland but, despite their diversity within
Kahurangi National Park, you will be very lucky to see one
alive. They are nocturnal creatures but occasionally venture
out on a rainy day. Their most active forays for food will
be on warm, moist nights, especially those following a
long, dry spell. It is more likely that you will come across
snail shells but remember—collecting Powelliphanta
shells is illegal. The largest species is Powelliphanta
superba prouseorum, found in Kahurangi National Park
and measuring about 90 mm across. These are the Sumo
wrestlers of the snail world, weighing in at 90 grams, or the
equivalent of a female tui. Powelliphanta land snails are
under serious threat. Habitat loss and predation are the
main problems. As a result of major habitat loss in the past,
many snail populations are now restricted to tiny pockets
of native forest. If the forest is removed, opened up or dried
out, many isolated populations could be gone forever.
Domestic cattle, feral pigs, deer and goats trample the
ground, which removes cover and causes drying—snails
must have dampness. Possums, pigs and rats eat and
crush the snails, as do weka, thrushes and hedgehogs.
Possum control, rat control, weed control, revegetation
programmes, habitat protection and wetland restoration
are all conservation measures that are currently being
carried out to give Powelliphanta a chance for survival.
Daily scheduled or chartered transport service for Abel
Tasman & Kahurangi National Parks. We provide a friendly
all year service with fully air-conditioned and modern
vehicles. Bookings & Information: www.gbcoachlines.co.nz
or Ph +64 3 525 8352
Somerset Hostel Trampers Transport
Linking Brown Hut to/from Collingwood ($60/journey, max 4)
and Abel Tasman National Park all year. Ph +64 3 524 8624
info@backpackerscollingwood.co.nz
Karamea Motors/Express Ltd
Shuttle Services to and from Kohaihai Shelter and Westport.
Charter Services available all year 24/7 to connecting
services and destinations. Free Quotes. Ph +64 3 782 6757
Fax +64 3 782 6703  Email info@karamea-express.co.nz
Trek Express
4WD transport to either end of the Heaphy Track, pick
up any location, return available Kohaihai, Karamea or
Brown Hut. Groups or individuals welcome. Free vehicle
storage. Bag and ­car relocation service available. Call free:
0800 128 735 for information, or ph/fax +64 3 540 2042
Email: info@trekexpress.co.nz or to see bookings
www.trekexpress.co.nz
The Heaphy Bus Co Ltd
Both track ends of the Heaphy and Wangapeka at low
budget fares on a schedule service. To book online:
www.theheaphybus.co.nz or call +64 3 540 2042
Affordable Transport
Shuttle Charters/Tours Relocations Rentals
Accommodation Golden Bay Kahurangi Abel Tasman
www.bookabach.co.nz/4346  Ph 027 423 7428
exploregb@yahoo.co.nz
Nelson Lakes Shuttles
Heaphy transport to both track ends all seasons. To fit in
with your plans. Ask about the Heaphy Shuttle Express
Service $110 return fare. Car relocations. Free car storage.
Ph +64 3 521 1900  info@nelsonlakesshuttles.co.nz
www.nelsonlakesshuttles.co.nz
Heaphy Track Help
Car relocations from either end. Food drops. Derry Kingston,
Ligar Bay, RD1, Takaka. Ph +64 3 525 9576 Email:
info@heaphytrackhelp.co.nz Website:heaphytrackhelp.co.nz
Air
Golden Bay Air Scheduled Flights
The Heaphy Track made easy. Scheduled flights
between Takaka, Karamea, Wellington and Christchurch.
Connecting shuttles to the Heaphy Track. Book
online www.goldenbayair.co.nz, Ph 0800 588 885 or
+64 3 525 8725, info@goldenbayair.co.nz
Helicopter Charter Karamea
Based in Karamea — get flown right to the start of the
track in only 20 minutes. Year round service. Safe parking
@ hangar. Seats three passengers. Ph +64 3 782 6111 +64 3 782 6617  info@lastresort.co.nz  www.lastresort.co.nz
julie@karameahelicharter.co.nz  www.adventuresnz.co.nz
Remote Adventures Air Transport
Specialising in landing close to Brown Hut. Often
opportunities to view the track. Vehicle parking at airfields.
Flights Nelson Motueka Takaka Karamea Taranaki
Wanganui & Kapiti Coast. Open summer. In winter by
arrangement. Ph +64 3 525 6167 or 0800 150 338
flyaway@remoteadventures.co.nz  www.remoteadventures.co.nz
Guided Walks
Bush and Beyond Guided Walks
Walk the Heaphy Track with Kahurangi’s original guiding
company. Ecology guides with conservation values. Fully
catered or self-catered interpretation guiding. Nelson pick
up. Ph: +64 3 528 9054  info@bushandbeyond.co.nz
www.bushandbeyond.co.nz
Kahurangi Guided Walks
Our Heaphy Track guided walks include Nelson Transport,
food carried and cooked! We also guide the Abel Tasman.
Ph +64 3 525 7177  www.kahurangiwalks.co.nz
Southern Wilderness NZ
Southern Wilderness; the Heaphy Gourmet Guided Walk
specialists. Experienced guides, pick ups from Nelson,
returning you back safe, and relaxed in time for connecting
flights. Call 0800 666 044 NZ or 1800 355 768 AUS.
www.SouthernWilderness.com
Accommodation
Rongo Backpackers & Gallery
Great accommodation every 4th night FREE! Call for
transport transfers to and from Kohaihai. Ph +64 3 782 6667
rongo@actrix.co.nz  www.rongobackpackers.com,
www.karameamotels.com
Last Resort
In the heart of Karamea Village, the Last Resort has a warm
West Coast welcome, Café, Restaurant and Bar & a range of
rooms to meet your needs. Soak in the Spa Pool or enjoy a
personal Foot Spa in your room. Helicopter & Bus transport
available to & from the track. Free ph 0800 505 042 or
i-Sites and Visitor Centres
Golden Bay i-Site, ph: +64 3 525 9136
Westport i-Site Visitor Centre, ph: +64 3 789 6658
Karamea Information & Resource Centre, ph: +64 3 782 6652
Nelson i-Site Visitor Centre, ph: +64 3 548 2304
Other publications
Kahurangi Parkmap
Kahurangi National Park flier
 DOC contact details
For more information about the Heaphy Track contact:
Nelson Regional Visitor Centre
Millers Acre /  Taha o te Awa
79 Trafalgar Street, PO Box 375
Nelson 7040
Ph: (03) 546 9339
Email: nelsonvc@doc.govt.nz
For booking huts or campsites contact:
Great Walks Helpdesk Nelson
Department of Conservation
PO Box 375
Nelson 7040
New Zealand
Ph: (03) 546 8210 International +64 3 546 8210
Fax: (03) 546 9612 International +64 3 546 9612
Email: greatwalksbooking@doc.govt.nz
or visit www.doc.govt.nz

Helpdesk hours
Mon–Sun  8:30 a.m.–12 p.m. and 1 p.m.–4:30 p.m.
Bookings can be made in person at selected DOC offices,
i-Sites and visitor centres. A booking fee may apply.
For hunting permits for eastern side of Kahurangi
National Park contact DOC Golden Bay (03) 525 8026,
DOC Motueka or Nelson Regional Visitor Centre.
For hunting permits for western side of Kahurangi National
Park contact DOC Buller–Kawatiri (03) 788 8008.

Published by:
Department of Conservation
Nelson/Marlborough Conservancy
Private Bag 5, Nelson 7042
June 2010 Cover: Tramper on the Heaphy Track
Crown copyright Photo: Markus Baumann