Kepler Track

One of New Zealand's Great Walks, the Kepler Track is a 60-kilometre loop that showcases the raw beauty of Fiordland National Park. Starting near Te Anau, this three-to-four-day tramp takes you through lush beech forests, across alpine tops with panoramic views of Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapouri, and down into glacial valleys carved by ancient ice. It's a challenging yet accessible journey for well-prepared hikers, offering a true immersion in New Zealand's wilderness.

Highlights & What to See

• Luxmore Hut & Summit: Perched on the edge of the alpine zone, this hut offers sweeping views of Lake Te Anau. From here, a short side trip to the summit rewards with a 360-degree panorama of Fiordland's peaks.
• Iris Burn Hut & Waterfall: The Iris Burn Valley is a lush, fern-filled gorge with a stunning waterfall cascading into a deep pool – perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day.
• Lake Manapouri Views: The track's eastern section offers multiple viewpoints over Lake Manapouri, New Zealand's deepest lake, framed by the Cathedral Mountains.
• Beech Forest Canopy: Walk among towering red and silver beech trees, with the sound of native birds like the bellbird and fantail accompanying your steps.
• Kepler Track Lookout: A short detour near the start of the track provides a bird's-eye view of the Waiau River and Lake Te Anau's south fiord.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers complete the Kepler Track in three days and two nights, staying at the Department of Conservation huts. A popular itinerary starts with a walk to Luxmore Hut (day one), then crosses the alpine tops to Iris Burn Hut (day two), and finishes with a descent through the beech forest back to the trailhead (day three). Fit trampers can do it in two days, but three allows time to enjoy side trips and the stunning scenery. Book huts and campsites well in advance, especially during peak season (October to April).

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Milford Sound / Piopiotahi – A day cruise or kayak trip through this iconic fiord is a must, with towering cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife.
• Doubtful Sound – For a more remote fiord experience, take a cruise or overnight trip into Doubtful Sound, accessed via Lake Manapouri.
• Te Anau Glowworm Caves – Explore limestone caves on Lake Te Anau's western shore, home to thousands of glowworms.
• Fiordland National Park – The entire park offers endless hiking trails, from the Routeburn Track to day walks like the Key Summit.
• Queenstown – A 2.5-hour drive from Te Anau, this adventure hub provides bungee jumping, jet boating, and vibrant dining.

Please check official sources for current details.