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Department of Conservation - Te Papa Atawhai

www.doc.govt.nz
 
  
 

Who is the Department of Conservation?

Visitors to New Zealand love our pristine landscapes and marine areas that are home to unique plants and animals. The Department of Conservation (commonly known as DOC) is the central government organisation whose mission it is to conserve New Zealand's natural and historical heritage for all to enjoy.

DOC's responsibilities are encapsulated in its Maori name - Te Papa Atawhai; Te papa signifies a box or container (for the taonga or treasures) and atawhai the act of caring, nurturing or preserving.

DOC looks after New Zealand's 9 Great Walks

DOC manages the public conservation on which New Zealand's 9 Great Walks are situated, including National Parks, Forest Parks and other reserves. You can access most of this land freely but access to some areas such as reserves is restricted. DOC also looks after the facilities you'll use during your visit such as huts, campsites, tracks, bridges, board walks and mountain passes. You pay fees to stay in huts and campsites on the Great Walks.

Preparation and Safety

A key focus of DOC’s work is ensuring walkers plan, prepare and equip themselves for a safe and enjoyable adventure of any length on New Zealand’s walks.

New Zealand's weather changes rapidly. It can be very cold at any time of the year. Always be physically and mentally prepared for the worst conditions and be ready to change your trip plans if necessary.
Be familiar with DOC's safety information and always contact the nearest DOC visitor centre for the latest information about facilities and conditions.

Booking a walk independently

If you want to walk a Great Walk independently you will need a Great Walks Pass. The fees for this varies between each Great Walk, but all prices are very reasonable as they are heavily subsidised in order to foster participation by many people.

For some Great Walks you may need to make a booking, for others simply purchase a Great Walks hut or campsite pass before your trip

  • Book online for the Milford, Kepler, Routeburn, Heaphy and Abel Tasman: The online system allows you to check availability and pay for your booking.
  • DOC Visitor Centres national wide can make hut or campsite bookings on your behalf. A booking fee applies
  • Call on +64-3-249 8514, fax +64-3-249 8515, email greatwalksbooking@doc.govt.nz.
If you want to walk a Great Walk as part of a tour or want to know about other walking Tour Operators go to the Booking and Preparation page.
 


Recommended Reading

Explore Te Ara - The Encyclopaedia of New Zealand - the comprehensive guide to New Zealand’s people, environment, history and culture.

This community-driven site gives a walker’s perspective of New Zealand walks. Highlights of the site are its large searchable database and multitude of contributor’s photographs.
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