The Kepler Track
One of New Zealand's Great Walks
Distance: 60 km Loop
Welcome to one of the best and most stunning walks you'll have the pleasure of undertaking in NZ. Covering a 60 kms loop starting and finishing in Te Anau, with approximately 1200 meters of climbing, this purpose built 2- 3 night walk was designed to show you all the best features of the South Islands Fiordland - from towering mountains & native forests to pulsing waterfalls and glacier-carved valleys. Like the mountains it traverses, the track is named after Johannes Kepler. The track is one of the New Zealand Great Walks and is administered by New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC).
Probably the first thing you should know is that your accommodation at the different huts must be reserved. DOC offers accommodation at 3 huts and 2 campsites which must be booked in advance during the 'Great Walks season' (29 October 2019 – 30 April 2020).
Most walkers complete the walk over the following schedule:
Day 1: Te Anau > Luxmore Hut, 15.8km
Day 2, Luxmore Hut > Iris Burn Hut, 14.6km
Day 3, Iris Burn Hut > Moturau Hut, 16.2km
Day 4, Moturau Hut > Rainbow Reach, 6km
The Kepler Track is of higher standard than most other tracks, so is well signposted, wide and well maintained. Generally you can look forward to a dirt, gravel or grassy track which is easy to follow. There is also a safe network of bridges which allow you to keep our feet dry most of the time!
Also worth noting is that the tracks in each direction from Te Anau can be walked as a 'return day walk' which makes for a great day out.
The best website to review, and to book your accommodation in a hut, is The Department of Conservation's Kepler Track page. Here you'll find more of the intricate details such as:
- A Detailed Description
- Fees and Bookings information
- How to Get There
- Packing Suggestions
- Accommodation Along The Way
Other websites which may be of help are:
https://www.newzealand.com/us/feature/kepler-track/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kepler_Track
An of course, our front of house staff can help you book a tour, a walk, accommodation or just help you with the start of your journey! So pop in and speak to one of friendly and helpful reservations staff for more information!