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Heaphy Track

The Heaphy Track

Experience the legendary Heaphy Track

The Heaphy Track is among New Zealand's 10 Great Walks. This age-old Māori pathway winds its way through rolling tussock fields, delves into verdant forests, passes under the shade of nikau palms, and continues onward to the thunderous waves of the West Coast.

blurry placeholderHeaphy Track by Damien Stones
blurry placeholderPremium tour of The Heaphy Track with Helicopters Nelson.
Premium tour of The Heaphy Track with Helicopters Nelson.

2-3 days | 78.4km | Grade 3

Highlights

Breathtaking wilderness
Diverse landscapes and wildlife

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Ride on of NZ's Great Walks, the Heaphy Track

This renowned Great Walk doubles as an exceptional multi-day mountain biking trail, winding through the varied and sometimes otherworldly terrains of Kahurangi National Park.

New Zealand's longest and most diverse Great Walk is open to mountain bikers between May and November.

Riding the Heaphy Track

The trail spans nearly 80 km and follows the historic paths of Māori pounamu gatherers and gold prospectors between Golden Bay and the West Coast of the South Island.

This trail is a favourite among mountain biking enthusiasts. It starts with a climb to a vast, tussock-covered plateau surrounded by rugged mountains, then descends through lush forested river valleys to the wild West Coast beaches adorned with geometric nikau palms.

Along the way, bikers can encounter unique wildlife such as great-spotted kiwis, spiky wētā, long-legged spiders, and giant carnivorous snails. Man-made wonders include lofty suspension bridges and cosy Great Walk huts, perfect for meeting fellow adventurers.

The trail can be completed in two days, though a three-day journey allows for a deeper appreciation of the stunning environment. Staying at Saxon Hut on the first night and Heaphy Hut on the second splits the journey into manageable sections.

This challenging ride through remote wilderness is best suited for well-equipped, experienced riders with solid mechanical skills. The trail can be ridden in either direction, but the east-to-west route is most popular due to the initial climb. The 448 km road journey between trailheads takes about seven hours, but shuttle services or a scenic flight from Karamea to Golden Bay or Nelson offer convenient and memorable alternatives.

Combine the ride with a scenic flight

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Helicopters Nelson New Zealand

Go where the roads can't take you. Be taken to extraordinary places that only a helicopter can get you to. Our team of local pilots are experts in finding the best hiking, biking, dining, fishing and hunting spots in the Top of the South Island.
from NZ$325
Silver Partner 
blurry placeholderHeli-Bike with Helicopters Nelson

Heli-Biking with Helicopters Nelson - Top of the South

The ultimate kiwi adventure starts right here. Our range of helicopter bike tours caters for all ages and abilities, from family friendly through to hard-core expert.
from NZ$250
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blurry placeholderThe gorgeous colours of Awaroa - the people's beach at Abel Tasman

Golden Bay Air Scenic Flights from Nelson Airport

Take a Golden Bay Air scenic flight from Nelson Airport. Outstanding natural landscapes in every direction from towering mountains, tranquil lakes, golden beaches, sounds, dramatic coasts and Farewell Spit - it's hard to choose.
from NZ$499
 
blurry placeholderAbel Tasman Islands

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Take a Golden Bay Air scenic flight from Takaka Airport. From the golden beaches of the Abel Tasman and the mighty peaks of Kahurangi to the Wharariki sea arches and Farewell Spit, you are spoiled for choice.
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Hop off the Heaphy Track for some local Nelson Sauvin hops

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Welcome to NZ's craft brewing capital.
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Stay near the trails

blurry placeholderRatanui Lodge main lounge bar
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Ratanui Lodge

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from NZ$299
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blurry placeholderWe have a pool with a climbing wall.
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Pohara Beach Top 10 Holiday Park

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