3 Days 61 km (loop)

Highlights

  • Ancient terraced forests
  • Rare wildlife
  • Panoramic alpine & coastal views

Proximity

GRADE: INTERMEDIATE

Bookings are essential for this hike, contact the Tuatapere Hump Ridge office for more information.

The acclaimed Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track is an epic walking adventure known for its fascinating blend of nature and heritage.

Southland
Tuatapere forests, Southland

Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track itinerary

Winding across some of New Zealand's wildest landscape, this hike through Fiordland National Park, through ancient and regenerating forest, across Maori land and along deserted coastline.

Day 1

Rarakau carpark > Okaka Lodge

Begin by walking along the clifftop and descending to the beach before crossing a swing bridge. From here the track winds inland and up to Stag Point - where panoramic views abound. From here it is a short climb up to the summit ridge and Okaka Lodge.

7- 9 hours walking

Day 2

Okaka Coach > Port Craig Lodge

Journey along the summit ridge, descending the Hump Ridge before re-entering the bush. Along the way you will pass along historic wooden viaducts and an old railway until you reach Port Craig Lodge where you can explore the remnants of the old Port Craig sawmill town. 

7- 9 hours walking

Day 3

Port Craig Lodge > Rarakau car park

Today, the track winds through native bush before crossing the spectacular Blowholes Beach. Follow the coast and climb back to the coastal terraces and re-crossing Bluecliffs Beach to return to the carpark. 

 7- 9 hours walking

Department of Conservation

Click the link below for more information and detailed maps about this hike.

Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track(opens in new window)

More information

Getting there

This hike begins and ends at the Rarakau Carpark, at the western end of Te Waewae Bay in Southland.

 

Accommodation

During the walk

Two private backcountry lodges are available on the Tuatapere Humpridge Track. Bookings are essential, contact the Hump Ridge office(opens in new window) for more information.

Before and after 

  • Limited accommodation is available in nearby Tuatapere.
  • The city of Invercargill, an hours' drive from the start of the track, offers a range of accommodation options.   

 

Booking the walk

The Hump Ridge Track is open all the year round for self-guided walkers, but most people choose to tackle this expedition during the warmer months.

Bookings are essential and available by contacting the Hump Ridge office(opens in new window).

 

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