routeburn Duration: 2–4 days Distance: track 32 km

Get out & walk greatwalks.co.nz 0800 694 732

Admire this unique part of as you become enveloped by mountains on the Routeburn Track. This Great Walk is a 2–4 day, 32 km track, linking Mt Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks. Just a short journey from bustling Queenstown, you’ll fi nd yourself walking below majestic peaks and above stunning valleys as you traverse the great Kā Tiritiri o te Moana of New Zealand (The Southern Alps). Emerging from pristine forest, you’ll have time to refl ect on your journey as the track weaves though meadows, refl ective tarns and alpine gardens. Since 1880, tourists have walked this route, taken fi rst by horse to Routeburn Flats and then guided on foot past glistening lakes and cascading waterfalls to the Harris Saddle. Today, the popular Routeburn Track inspires thousands of visitors with spectacular vistas into the vast Routeburn and Hollyford Valleys.

Getting there Routeburn The Routeburn Track is located in the southwest of the . The track Track Milford Sound traverses Mount Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks, which are part of Te Wāhipounamu – South West New Zealand World Heritage Area, extending Glenorchy between the head of in the east, and the –Milford Highway in the west. Queenstown 94 Access to the Routeburn Track is by road, with the track starting at either the Routeburn Shelter or The Divide. The road distance between each end of the track is 350 km. Accommodation is available in the townships of Queenstown, Te Anau and Glenorchy or at Milford Sound / Piopiotahi. Transport operators, accommodation and equipment suppliers are featured in 6 this brochure – refer to the directory for further details. Te Anau 94 “ Incredible scenery, awesome walk!” road distances and times – Heather, Australia Queenstown to Glenorchy: 48 km, 40 minutes Glenorchy to routeburn Shelter: 20 km, 30 minutes (unsealed road) Queenstown to te Anau: 197 km, 2 hours te Anau to the divide: 85 km, 1.5 hours the divide to milford Sound / Piopiotahi: 35 km, 45 minutes

Cover image: Lake Mackenzie Image credit: Rob Suisted (naturespic.com)

This image: Routeburn Falls Hut Image credit: Keri Moyle (signsofl ife.co.nz) greatwalks.co.nz Profile and map 0800 694 732

Key - Hut - Campsite - Shelter Please refer to altitude to assess track elevation

Harris Saddle

Routeburn Falls Hut 4000 Lake Mackenzie Hut 48 bunks 50 bunks 9 campsites 3500 1000 Routeburn Flats Hut Altitude (feet)

s) Lake Howden Hut 20 bunks 3000 28 bunks 15 campsites

The Routeburn 2500 Divide Roadend

Altitude (met re 2000 500 1500

3.4 km 1–1.5 hours 8.6 km 3–4 hours 11.3 km 4.5–6 hours 2.3 km 6.5 km 1.5–2.5 hours 1–1.5 hours

H o l ly fo r d N T r a H c FIORDLAND k U

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S N Lake N I T Mackenzie A A T I N N U S Lake MackenzieMackenzie O Hut M

A S L I Earland Falls A

SH94 to Milford Sound

Key Lake Howden Hut Summit MOUNT ASPIRING

The Divide Cap NATIONAL PARK les T G rack r

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T Campsite r a c k Great Walk This map is intended as a general guide only. For up to date track, route, hut and safety Other Track SH94 to Te Anau information visit www.doc.govt.nz and/or your local DOC Visitor Centre before you travel. independent walking guide

The Routeburn Track can be walked in either direction. This guide describes an east to west direction for independent, non-guided walkers. routeburn Shelter to routeburn flats hut From the saddle, the Routeburn Track descends and 6.5 km, 1.5–2.5 hours traverses along the exposed Hollyford Face, with expansive The journey begins at Routeburn Shelter, with a swing views over the Darran Mountains and beyond to the bridge crossing to a well-formed track that gently winds Tasman Sea. This section of the track is well known for its beside the crystal clear Route Burn. After passing Sugarloaf impressive array of alpine plants. A steady descent leads to Stream, the track climbs to Bridal Veil Waterfall and the enchanting Lake Mackenzie. A short distance around continues above the gorge. A swing bridge leads to open, the lake is Lake Mackenzie Hut and Campsite. grassed fl ats and the Routeburn Flats Hut and Campsite. lake mackenzie hut to lake howden hut routeburn flats hut to routeburn falls hut 8.6 km, 3–4 hours 2.3 km, 1–1.5 hours Leaving Lake Mackenzie Hut, the track crosses a small fl at From Routeburn Flats Hut, the track climbs steadily before climbing to the bush line. A gradual descent then through stunning beech forest to Routeburn Falls Hut, leads past the ‘Orchard’, an open grassy area dotted with situated on the edge of the bush line and close to the ribbonwood trees, to the impressive Earland Falls impressive Route Burn Falls cascade. Along the way, (174 m). The track continues its gradual descent a recent slip provides an opportunity for views of the through beech forest to Lake Howden Hut. Routeburn Flats and the peaks of the Humboldt Mountains. lake howden hut to the divide routeburn falls hut to lake mackenzie hut 3.4 km, 1–1.5 hours 11.3 km, 4.5–6 hours The track steadily climbs to meet with the Key Summit Venture above the bush line and walk amidst the rugged Track. Well worth the eff ort, the side trip to Key Summit sub-alpine landscape. Climb steadily up the valley, through heads above the bush line and meanders through an wetlands and tussock-covered fl ats, before sidling along the attractive alpine wetland. You will be rewarded with bluff s above Lake Harris to reach the highest point on the magnifi cent views of the Darran Mountains, Lake Marian track at Tarahaka Whakatipu / Harris Saddle (1255 m). and the Hollyford Valley. Here a short, steep climb up Conical Hill gives superb From the junction of the two tracks, the gradual downhill views of the Hollyford Valley through to Whakatipu walk to The Divide is through charming silver beech forest. Waitai / Lake McKerrow, Martins Bay and the Tasman Sea. Allow 1–2 hours for the return trip back to Harris Saddle.

Image: Lake Harris Image credit: Keri Moyle (signsofl ife.co.nz) greatwalks.co.nz important information 0800 694 732

Places to stay The Routeburn Track huts have bunks, mattresses, Plan and prepare heating, toilets, basic cooking facilities, solar powered lighting and cold running water. A DOC ranger is in It is important to plan and prepare your trip and be residence during the Great Walks season (late October well equipped on a Great Walk. to late April). The huts do not provide cooking utensils Before you go, know The Outdoor Safety Code— or showers. 5 simple rules to help you stay safe: off er basic facilities including Great Walks campsites 1. Plan your trip toilets, sinks and a water supply. Some also have picnic tables and cooking shelters. Great Walks campsites can 2. tell someone only be accessed by walking there and are not accessible 3. Be aware of the weather by vehicle. 4. know your limits Bookings are essential during the Great Walks season. 5. take suffi cient supplies Great Walks huts and campsites must be booked in advance. Routeburn Track safety Further information and bookings • This track is not recommended for children Visit the Great Walks website or contact your nearest under the age of 10 due to the exposed DOC Visitor Centre for further information and bookings. mountainous environment and often adverse weather conditions. However, an overnight stay P: 0800 NZ GREATWALKS (0800 694 732) at Routeburn Flats, Routeburn Falls or Lake E: [email protected] Howden huts is a great way for the family W: greatwalks.co.nz to experience part of the track . • Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks Book online greatwalks.co.nz lies in an area of predominately westerly airstreams, which delivers high rainfall and changeable weather patterns to the area. Cold temperatures, snow, strong winds and heavy rain can occur at any time of the year. Catch a • Food is not available for purchase at any of the glimpse of huts—you must carry all of your own provisions. the mohua Things to know before you go () • A good level of fi tness and the right outdoor clothing, gear and equipment will greatly improve As a result of DOC’s ongoing extensive stoat the enjoyment of your trip. trapping and rat control in the Routeburn Valley, • Safety is your responsibility—leave your trip the visually striking, endangered mohua is details with a trusted contact. Intention forms are available at: adventuresmart.org.nz. making a comeback. You may be lucky to catch • Book your trip well in advance including your a glimpse of this endangered little bird feeding accommodation, transport and transfers to the in noisy groups behind Routeburn Flats Hut, or start/end of the Great Walk. in the canopy in the lower sections of the • Pack all necessary equipment, your own food Routeburn Valley. and drinks and any personal eff ects for your trip (including an extra day’s supply of food and water). Food and drinks are not available for purchase at Great Walks huts and campsites. • For a comprehensive gear list visit the Plan & Prepare section for each Great Walk at greatwalks.co.nz. Directory

Accommodation D oubtful Sound Daytime and Overnight Cruises Glenorchy Hotel & Backpackers Ltd Doubtful Sound is a place of towering peaks, “A taste of classic country hospitality on the bush-clad islands and hidden arms. Accessible way to Paradise” Hotel ensuite rooms, self- by cruise across Lake and coach over contained backpacker cottage & cabin, powered Wilmot Pass, it is three times longer than Milford campervan sites and camping accommodation Sound. Join our three hour daytime Wilderness available. Internet, off-street parking, luggage Cruise and discover this beautiful fiord with storage & ATM. Restaurant, Cafe, Bar & terraced our specialist nature guides. Wildlife commonly garden provide a relaxed atmosphere to have seen include dolphins, seals and penguins. Our lunch or dinner. We can cater for large groups Overnight Cruises – private ensuite cabins and and functions. On-site Glenorchy Information quad-share accommodation offer another great Centre and Store with DOC brochures, maps, alternative. Kayaking, exploring by tender craft, groceries & bottle store. We can assist with wildlife viewing and delicious meals are included. transport & activity bookings, & local information. Te Anau and Queenstown coach connections. Mountain Bike & Fishing Rod hire.

A: Visitor Centre, Lakefront Drive, Te Anau T: +64 3 249 7416 A: 42–50 Mull St, Glenorchy T: +64 3 442 9902 F: +64 3 442 9912 Freephone 0800 656 501 (within NZ) E: [email protected] W: www.realjourneys.co.nz E: [email protected] W: www.glenorchynz.com

Kinloch Lodge Milford Sound Daytime and Overnight Cruises A tramper’s haven with restaurant, selfcatering, Whatever the fiord’s mood, teeming with hot tub, track transfers, gear storage. Stay 2 rain or with sun glistening, Milford Sound is consecutive nights and receive a complimentary stunning. Choose our Small Boat Cruises with transfer to the Routeburn or Greenstone limited numbers on board, or our longer more Tracks during track season. Accommodation is leisurely Nature Cruises with specialist nature Qualmark 4.5 star backpackers and 3.5 guest guides. Both offer up close viewing of the and hosted and accredited enviro silver. Bunks, magnificent scenery. Our Overnight Cruises doubles, family rooms and lodge rooms. Prices provide the ultimate Milford Sound experience. from $35 per person. Kayaking, exploring by tender craft, wildlife viewing and delicious meals are included. “An author’s pick Lonely Planet, 14th and 15th Accommodation ranges from private ensuite edition. Trip Advisor Excellence Award 2012.” cabins to quad-share bunk style. Te Anau and Queenstown coach connections.

A: 862 Kinloch Rd, Kinloch, Glenorchy T: +64 3 442 4900 A: Real Journeys Visitor Centre, Lakefront Drive, Te Anau T: +64 3 249 7416 E: [email protected] W: www.kinlochlodge.co.nz Freephone 0800 656 501 (within NZ) E: [email protected] W: www.realjourneys.co.nz

Milford Sound Lodge Precipice Creek Station Bed & Breakfast Glenorchy Cap off your time in Fiordland’s world- Fantastic elevated mountain views on the renowned wilderness. Rejuvenate in Milford doorstep of Mt Aspiring National Park – a unique, Sound. Just 30 mins by bus from The Divide, private and relaxing retreat in Glenorchy, 45min Milford Lodge offers accommodation options from Queenstown. Our B&B unit is fully separated to suit any budget: luxury chalets (en suites from the main house, but yet part of our home. with baths... soak sore muscles!), private Large bedroom with SuperKing Double Bed rooms, cosy dorms and camp sites. Spend time and separate bathroom. * High quality recently with us and truly experience Milford Sound. opened one-bedroom unit * Kitchenette with Relax or let us arrange unforgettable activities microwave, fridge and complimentary tea & for you. Bookings essential. coffee * Sunny wooden deck * Wireless Internet * Flat screen TV/SKY * Wicked Homemade breakfast * Activities base for guided walks, fly-fishing or photography tours.

A: State Highway 94, T: +64 3 249 8071 | Freephone 0800 STAYMILFORD (within NZ) A: 48 Nereus Way, Rees Valley, 9350 Glenorchy T: +64 3 409 0960 | +64 27 680 4747 Piopiotahi, Milford Sound E: [email protected] W: www.milfordlodge.com E: [email protected] W: www.precipicecreek.co.nz

Steamers Backpackers Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers Located opposite Te Anau DOC, 10 minutes Vibrant BBH Backpackers overlooking Lake walk from town centre and the Wildlife Park. Te Anau; located 500m from DOC and Town Stay in the Steamers Beach complex within Te Centre-Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers has a Anau Lakeview Kiwi Holiday Park. Choose from prime lakefront location. We offer a range of our range of private or shared rooms (single, accommodation including Tent sites, Dorms, twin, double, quad). We have selected Sky TV Twins, Doubles or Private Ensuite. We have a channels, internet/Wi-Fi, laundry & kitchen. large Kitchen, Living area and TV Lounge, There are tent sites and more room types Wi-Fi, gear storage while you are on the tracks, within the Holiday Park as well as Car storage off-street parking, 2 spacious lounge areas, free & lockers. Groups welcome. Just a 45 minute BBQ use and communal kitchens ($19–$90), lakeside walk to the , Te Anau’s Advice and bookings for activities during closest “Great Walk” ($27–$70). your stay to compliment your “Great Walk” experience. Groups are welcome to enquire.

A: Steamers at Te Anau Lakeview Kiwi Holiday Park, 77 Manapouri-Te Anau Highway A: 48–50 Lakefront Drive, Te Anau T: +64 3 249 7713 | Freephone 0800 200 074 (within NZ) T: +64 3 249 7737 | Freephone 0800 483 262 (within NZ) E: [email protected] W: www.teanau.info E: [email protected] W: www.teanaubackpackers.co.nz Directory

Te Anau Lakeview KIWI Holiday Park & Motels YH As Te Anau and Queenstown Experience Fiordland from our spacious Lake YHA Te Anau and Queenstown are great hostels for Great Walks located at the View Holiday Park: Million Dollar Views of Lake start or end of the Routeburn Track. Rest up or recover in a private or shared Te Anau and Mountains. ACCOMMODATION: room and relax in our chill out zones. We’ll even help you plan the next leg of NEW Marakura Lakefront motels, family & studio your New Zealand journey. units, 1&2brm en-suites, basic cabins, powered/ A: YHA Te Anau, 29 Mokonui St | YHA Queenstown, 88-90 Lake Esplanade & 48A Shotover St non-powered sites. AMENITIES: Sky TV lounge, T: Freephone 0800 278 299 (within NZ) E: [email protected] W: www.yha.co.nz WiFi, sauna/spa bath, free BBQs, advice on free and paid activities, lockers & car storage onsite. LOCATION: 10 minutes walk to town centre and wildlife park and opposite Te Anau DOC, we are 45 minutes walk to the Kepler Track, Te Anau’s closest “Great Walk”. Tariff: $18–$260 (1–2 persons). Groups and schools welcome.

A: 77 Manapouri-Te Anau Highway T: +64 3 249 7457 | Freephone 0800 483 262 (within NZ) E: [email protected] W: www.teanau.info

Activities Landsborough Rafting Wilderness Experience Milford and Doubtful Sounds – Sea Kayaking A great addition to your Routeburn Track Milford and Doubtful Sounds lie within adventure, the Landsborough Rafting – a massive wilderness Wilderness Experience is a 3 day/2 night fully with designated world heritage status. Join guided and catered trip taking you into the a one day Milford Sound adventure or our heart of the West Coast. Less than 150 people longer 2–5 days Doubtful Sound sea kayaking are privileged enough to visit this remote and trips. Immensely rewarding and lots of fun, stunning valley – make sure you are one of it is exhilarating paddling along taking in the them! Fly in by helicopter, get looked after by sights and sounds from water level. Wildlife professional and experienced guides and raft is often encountered. Groups are small the Landsborough River. All equipment and and accompanied by experienced guides. gourmet food included. Small personal groups Top quality equipment is provided. Coach of like-minded people make this more than just connections available from Te Anau. a rafting trip!

A: 35 Shotover St, Queenstown T: +64 3 442 9792 | Freephone 0800 723 846 (within NZ) A: Sandy Brown Rd, Te Anau T: +64 3 249 7700 | Freephone 0800 200 434 (within NZ) E: [email protected] W: www.rafting.co.nz E: [email protected] W: www.seakayakfiordland.co.nz

Rosco’s Milford Sound Sea Kayaks Rosco’s Milford Kayaks have been running Equipment legendary kayak trips on Milford Sound for over Kiwi Discovery 21 years. From experienced kayaker to novice paddler we have a variety of trips departing Kiwi Discovery, the tracks specialist, has a range of hiking/tramping equipment available Milford daily. Our friendly local guides are the for rent. Based in Queenstown and open late every day, we offer a comprehensive best in the business and will show you the range of equipment and clothing – packs, sleeping bags, boots, walking poles, “real” Milford. Escape the crowds and become rainwear, cooking utensils and much more. Weekly rates and luggage storage available. a part of the environment you are observing in A: 37 Camp St, Queenstown T: +64 3 442 7340 | Freephone 0800 505 504 (within NZ) safe, stable sea kayaks. Often including seals, E: [email protected] W: www.kiwidiscovery.com dolphins and penguins. Go further and see more on our exclusive water taxi assist trips. “Rosco’s” ask for us by name. Outside Sports Where your hiking adventures begin! Talk to our friendly team for expert advice and make your hike a memorable, fun journey! Rental pick up/drop off in Te Anau A: Adventure Fiordland, T: +64 3 249 8500 | Freephone 0800 476 726 (within NZ) & Queenstown! 72 Town Centre, Te Anau E: [email protected] W: www.roscosmilfordkayaks.com

A: 36-38 Shotover St, Queenstown | 38-40 Milford Rd, Te Anau T: +64 3 441 0074 | +64 3 249 8195 E: [email protected] W: www.outsidesports.co.nz

T ransport Kiwi Discovery Trackhopper Celebrating 25 years of operation, the friendly Our service is to move your vehicle from one and knowledgeable staff at Kiwi Discovery will end of the Routeburn track to the other end. help make your Routeburn Track trip easy and This will save you travel time and cut out the hassle free. Kiwi Discovery offer transport to/ back tracking. The Caples, Greenstone, Rees from the Routeburn Track, equipment hire, & Dart tracks are also available. We are the and a Milford Sound cruise add-on. Based in original car relocation service for the Queenstown, the shop is open late every day Routeburn Track. for those last minute queries and purchases. Alternatively, book the full track package to have all your pre/post Routeburn Track accommodation in Queenstown, transport, and DOC huts on the track booked for you – further details on the website.

A: 37 Camp St, Queenstown T: +64 3 442 7340 | Freephone 0800 505 504 (within NZ) A: 92 Thompson St, Queenstown 9300 T: +64 3 442 8079 | +64 21 187 7732 E: [email protected] W: www.kiwidiscovery.com E: [email protected] W: www.trackhopper.co.nz Directory

T ransport T racknet routeburn shuttle (Divide) Buckley Transport Fiordland’s Track & Transport Specialists for over Buckley Transport based in Queenstown. With over 40 years experience in the 20 years: Comprehensive Summer Timetable region we offer excellent service and expert advice. Specialising in track transport connecting Routeburn Track with Queenstown, for groups, at times, of your choice. Routeburn/Divide. Divide/Routeburn and all Te Anau, Milford Sound and Invercargill. Enquire other tracks. Airport and accommodation pick ups and drop offs. Quotes available. about ‘Routeburn Loop Package’. Busses Travel: T: +64 3 442 8215 | +64 3 442 8219 E: [email protected] Queenstown–Divide (7.00am/10.30am). Te Anau– W: www.buckleytransport.co.nz Divide (7.15am/ 9.45am/1.15pm). Invercargill–Divide (10.45am). Divide–Queenstown (10.15am/3.15pm). Divide–Te Anau (10.15am/3.15pm/5.45pm. Divide– Milford Sound (8.15am/10.45am/2.15pm). Tracknet Glenorchy Journeys connects Queenstown, Te Anau, Milford Sound Glenorchy Journeys offers on-demand daily transport to the Routeburn, the and Invercargill with the Milford, Kepler Hollyford Greenstone/Caples, and the Rees and Dart Tracks. Our first service departs Glenorchy Tracks. Groups/Day Walkers welcome. Qualmark at 7.00am (or earlier by arrangement), ensuring you are first on the track ahead of the endorsed. Booking agent for Routeburn Shelter. crowd. Competitive rates offered to fit your timetable – bookings are essential.

T: +64 3 249 7777 | Freephone 0800 483 262 (within NZ) E: [email protected] T: +64 3 409 0800 | Freephone 0800 495 687 (within NZ) W: www.tracknet.net E: [email protected] W: www.glenorchyjourneys.co.nz

Safer Parking Te Anau Safer Parking provide the only safe and secure park while you walk the track. Arrange to catch a bus from ‘SAFER PARKING’ to the Divide, Queenstown, Routeburn. Don’t let a break-in spoil your holiday, park your car or van with us. Please visit our website.

A: 48 Caswell Rd, Te Anau T: +64 3 249 7198 | +64 27 260 9032 E: [email protected] W: www.saferparking.co.nz

Air New Zealand is proud to support the Department Published by Publishing Team, Department of Conservation, of Conservation in protecting these national treasures. Wellington, PO Box 10420, New Zealand | November 2012