Photo: Michal Klajban / CC BY-SA 4.0
Stretching 55 km through the heart of Kahurangi National Park, the Wangapeka Track is one of New Zealand’s lesser-known Great Walks, offering a rugged and remote tramping experience. This multi-day trail weaves through ancient beech forests, crosses alpine tops, and traverses the wild Wangapeka River valley. It’s a true backcountry adventure for experienced hikers seeking solitude and raw natural beauty, with fewer crowds than the neighbouring Heaphy Track.
Highlights & What to See
- Karamea River Valley: The track begins alongside the pristine Karamea River, with swimming holes and lush rainforest.
- Wangapeka Saddle: A 1,400 m pass offering panoramic views of the park’s marble peaks and tussock-covered tops.
- Stone Hut: A historic backcountry hut built in the 1930s, nestled in a clearing with mountain vistas.
- Granite and Marble Formations: The track passes through unique karst landscapes, including the impressive Granite Creek area.
- Birdlife: Keep an eye out for kea, kākā, and the elusive great spotted kiwi.
- Hot Springs: A short side trip leads to natural hot pools in the Karamea River – a perfect reward after a day’s hike.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most walkers allow 3–4 days to complete the track one way, with huts and campsites spaced at comfortable intervals. Day hikes to the Wangapeka Saddle or Stone Hut are possible from the main road end, but the full traverse is best tackled by experienced trampers with good navigation skills. Plan for variable weather and river crossings; summer (Dec–Feb) offers the most stable conditions.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Karamea: The gateway town to the Wangapeka and Heaphy Tracks, with a laid-back vibe and the famous Oparara Basin arches.
- Heaphy Track: New Zealand’s longest Great Walk, starting from nearby Kohaihai and offering a contrast of coastal and forest scenery.
- Kahurangi National Park: Explore other lesser-known trails like the Leslie-Karamea Track or the Cobb Valley.
- Farewell Spit: A protected nature reserve on the northern tip of the South Island, with bird colonies and sweeping sand dunes.
- Nelson Lakes National Park: About two hours’ drive east, with alpine lakes and the popular Lake Rotoiti circuit.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.