• Routeburn Track
    Routeburn Track
  • Exploring the Routeburn Track.
    Exploring the Routeburn Track.
  • Routeburn Track, NZ. Tourism NZ
    Routeburn Track, NZ. Tourism NZ
  • On the Milford Track.
    On the Milford Track.
  • A sublime day on the Milford Track.
    A sublime day on the Milford Track.
  • The winding trail up to Mackinnon Pass on day three of the Milford Track walk. Photo: Brent McKean.
    The winding trail up to Mackinnon Pass on day three of the Milford Track walk. Photo: Brent McKean.
  • The memorial to explorer Quintin Mckinnon at the top of the pass.
    The memorial to explorer Quintin Mckinnon at the top of the pass.
  • The hut on top of McKinnon Pass.
    The hut on top of McKinnon Pass.
  • One of the many bridge crossingd in the Clinton Valley.
    One of the many bridge crossingd in the Clinton Valley.
  • Day three on the Milford Track offers many highlights.
    Day three on the Milford Track offers many highlights.
  • The trail up to Mackinnon Pass on day three of the walk.
    The trail up to Mackinnon Pass on day three of the walk.
  • Walking through the Clinton Valley on day two of the walk.
    Walking through the Clinton Valley on day two of the walk.
  • When it rains the waterfalls are amazing.
    When it rains the waterfalls are amazing.
  • On top of McKinnon Pass on the Milford Track, one of NZ's currently nine Great Walks.
    On top of McKinnon Pass on the Milford Track, one of NZ's currently nine Great Walks.
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Summer bookings open for NZ's 10 great walks

16 June 2021
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Online bookings are now open for the next walking season to do any of NZ's 10 great walks.

New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks are premium multi-dayhikes (and one canoe journey) that showcase the best of New Zealand’s landscapes, as well as the country’s natural and cultural heritage. The walks are well-formed and have a higher standard of tracks and facilities. Many offer the chance to see rare and iconic species such as kākā, kea, takahē and whio.

The Great Walks Season runs from September to April for the southern Great Walks (Milford, Routeburn and Kepler) and Tongariro Northern Circuit. Outside the Great Walks Season these four walks should only be attempted by fit, experienced and well-equipped people as facilities are greatly reduced and there are additional hazards such as ice underfoot, river crossings and avalanches, says Steve Taylor.

“Make sure you choose a walk that’s right for you and your group. DOC’s website and visitor centres have loads of information and advice about how to look after yourself and really make the most of your time.”

While differential pricing for international visitors is in place on seven Great Walks, DOC is advising people overseas not to book onto a Great Walk if New Zealand border restrictions remain in place for their country.

“We were blown away by how popular the Great Walks were with New Zealanders last year,” says Steve Taylor.

“Our booking data showed that 75% more Kiwis undertook a Great Walk over summer (1 December 2020 to 28 February 2021) compared to the previous year. We are lucky to have these walks on our doorstep and to be able to take time out in nature in this way.”

“For people unable to undertake a Great walk this year, New Zealand is famous for its outstanding walking network and there are plenty of other options to get outdoors, even over winter.”

More info click here. 

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