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My Favourite Walk: Hiking the Heaphy Track in
Hiking the Heaphy Track in reverse
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By Ruth Reidy
In January 2022, four family members decided to hike the HeaphyTrack in reverse. We flew from Nelson to Karamea which was a stunning flight, showcasing the beauty of the region. “The Last Resort” in Karamea, was were we stayed, walked around the town and around the estuary to limber up. We shuttled to Kohaihai campsite where we started the tramp.
Day one- Kohaihai to Heaphy Hut: This was beautiful, stunning coastal walk with palm trees, sandy paths and breath-taking coastal views. At the end of the day we had a refreshing swim in the Heaphy River
Day 2- Heaphy Hut to James Mackay Hut:
This was by far the most physical challenging day. Here we crossed the 148.88m long Heaphy River bridge- the longest suspended deck bridge in New Zealand.
After we stopped for a much needed break at the Lewis Shelter climbed
Above left: The view from the air. Middle below: Time for a dip. Above right: Filling up a drink bottle.
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to the James Mackay Hut. The James Mackay hut was a welcome relief, well equipped and perfect for a relaxed night playing cards and chatting with fellow travellers.
Day 3- James Mackay to Perry Saddle Hut:
Here it was changing terrain and landscape of tussock grass and beautiful wide meadows with distinct takahe droppings - that kept us looking for the takahe as we walked.
We enjoyed our lunch at Gouland Downs before being greeted by a pair of takahe at the James Mackay Hut. Here we braved the ice cold spa for a 30 second dip and wash.
Day 4- Perry Saddle Hut to Brown’s Hut:
Our last night we were informed by the ranger of an impending storm as bad weather was imminent and the track was about to be closed.
Fortunately for us we had walked in reverse so we were able to descend to Brown’s Hut, which we did in the dark and the pouring rain the following morning. Browns Hut was a welcomed sight.
Above left: On day three. Below left: Through the nikau palms. Middle above: A tame takahe. Middle right: The boardwalk over wetland. Above right: A lone nikau stands out.
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