Routeburn Track

In pre-European times, Maori frequently used this route during journeys to collect pounamu (jade) from west coast rivers.

The Routeburn Track - one of New Zealand's 'great walks' - takes you through wild mountain country between the Hollyford and Dart Valleys at the base of the Southern Alps. It passes through two national parks - Fiordland and Mount Aspiring - and is part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area. In pre-European times Maori frequently used this route during expeditions to the west coast, where they would hunt for pounamu, a highly valued type of jade.

From end to end, the track takes three days. It isn't a circuit, so you'll need road transport to make the return journey. Much of the track is accessible for day hikers, especially the walk to Key Summit at the Te Anau end. In good weather, a fit person could reach the Harris Saddle in a day. From here the climb up Conical Hill provides massive views of the alps and Tasman Sea.

Compared to other tracks in Fiordland, rainfall is less likely on the Routeburn. The vegetation is different too - more large trees and fewer ferns. Along the high ridges around Harris Saddle, you'll notice delicate sub-alpine herbs and cushion plants. Birdlife is prolific - look for native fantails, parakeets, bellbirds, yellowheads and robins. At Routeburn Falls, cheeky kea (mountain parrots) are always entertaining.

You can walk the Routeburn Track in either direction - ex Glenorchy or ex Te Anau. Hut bookings are recommended, especially during the peak season (late October to late April).