Great Hike

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Highlights: The Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track explores the southern edge of Fiordland (part of the Te Wahipounamu Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Area) and has a unique combination of beach, bush and sub alpine scenery, awesome viaducts and the historic Port Craig area. Having been recently developed this track has quickly established itself as one of New Zealand's great hikes.

Carry only day packs while experienced guides share their knowledge to enrich your walking holiday. At the end of each day stay in comfortable double or twin accommodation, enjoying hot showers and cooked meals.

Day 1: Arrive at Tuatapere. Report to the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track Office by 5:30pm for a briefing then check-in to your hotel which is included.

Day 2: Drive to helicopter launch site, and fly over coast. Begin walk from Flat Creek and climb steadily up Hump Ridge. The bush gives way to sub alpine tussock grasses and finally the Okaka Hut (890m). 5 - 7 hours/13km hiking.

Day 3: Traverse along the Hump Ridge past sandstone tors and mountain tarns. Then descend through mountain beech to the South Coast Track. Follow an old logging tramway as it leads you across the massive Percy Burn Viaduct, the highest remaining wooden viaduct in the world, to Port Craig Village. 7 - 9 hours/19km hiking.

Day 4: Explore the pioneer village of Port Craig before walking along the coast to the end of the track. You may see the rare Hector's dolphin in the surf along the way. Take the shuttle back to Tuatapere. 5 - 7 hours/17km hiking./i>

Alternative Options: For non walking partners there is the option of being helicopter lifted between huts. This is charged on a per sector ($180.00 approx.) basis. Contact us for details.