Kepler Track

There are few places in New Zealand where you can walk from lush beech forest to tussock-lined ridgelines with views that stretch all the way to the Tasman Sea and Lake Te Anau. The Kepler Track, a 60-kilometre loop in Fiordland National Park, delivers just that, earning its reputation as one of the country's Great Walks. This is a hike for those who want a multi-day adventure that rewards with alpine panoramas, glacial valleys, and a sense of remote wilderness — yet with well-maintained trails and comfortable huts. Starting and ending at the edge of Te Anau, the Kepler Track is a classic New Zealand tramping experience that balances challenge with accessibility.

Highlights & What to See

• Luxmore Hut and Mount Luxmore Summit — The first day's climb takes you above the bushline to Luxmore Hut, with sunset views over Lake Te Anau. A side trip to the summit (1472 m) is a must for 360-degree vistas of Fiordland's peaks and lakes.
• The Iris Burn Valley and Cascade Saddle — Day two traverses open tussock ridges with dramatic drops into the Iris Burn Valley. The section between Luxmore Hut and Iris Burn Hut is the track's scenic highlight, especially in late afternoon light.
• Lake Manapouri and the Waiau River — The final leg follows the Waiau River through beech forest, offering glimpses of Lake Manapouri and the chance to spot native birds like the kea and tomtit.
• Kepler Track's Great Walk Facilities — The Department of Conservation huts (Luxmore, Iris Burn, and Moturau) are well-equipped with bunks, cooking facilities, and solar lighting. Bookings are essential in peak season (October to April).
• Te Anau — The track starts and ends at the Te Anau control gates, just 5 km from Te Anau township. Allow time to explore the lakefront, Milford Road, and the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary.

Suggested Time to Spend

The Kepler Track is typically completed in three days and two nights, though fit walkers can do it in two days (with one night at Iris Burn Hut). Most people walk clockwise from the Te Anau control gates: Day 1 to Luxmore Hut (5–6 hours), Day 2 to Iris Burn Hut (6–7 hours), Day 3 back to the start (5–6 hours). If you have only a day, consider a day walk to Luxmore Hut and back (10–12 hours) — a strenuous but rewarding option. Book huts and transport in advance during the Great Walk season.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Milford Sound — A 2-hour drive from Te Anau, this iconic fiord offers cruises, kayaking, and the Milford Track. Combine with a Kepler Track trip for the ultimate Fiordland experience.
• Doubtful Sound — Less visited than Milford, this fiord is accessed via a boat cruise across Lake Manapouri and a bus over Wilmot Pass. Overnight cruises are available.
• Te Anau Glowworm Caves — A short boat trip from Te Anau, these limestone caves are home to thousands of glowworms. A great evening activity after a day on the track.
• Routeburn Track — Another Great Walk located between Queenstown and Te Anau. It can be combined with the Kepler Track for a longer tramping holiday.
• Queenstown — A 2-hour drive from Te Anau, Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand, offering bungy jumping, jet boating, and a lively food scene.

Please check official sources for current details.