Tuatapere Humpridge Track NEW ZEALAND

by Pam

The Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track is located in the southwest corner of New Zealand’s South Island. The track runs through pristine and unspoiled wilderness. We were promised a diverse range of World Heritage landscapes from sub-alpine wilderness to sea-level views including coastal terraces in the Waitutu Forest.

On top of the Hump Ridge itself are panoramic views of Stewart Island, Lake Poteriteri, Lake Hauroko and mountain ranges found deep in Fiordland National Park.

The team prepared, trained hard for the steep climb to the ridge and waited in anticipation of a wonderful adventure.

DAY 1

We arrived at Last Light Lodge in Tuatapere on the first night and were treated to the first of many amazing meals to sustain us on our trek - this is what we kept telling ourselves.

While the weather forecast was looking a bit wet for the week, we were well prepared for the weather, the uphills and some muddy trails. We were continually amazed at the lodges, the food, the helicopter ride, the trails, the flora and fauna, the staff and especially our wonderful guides, Catherine and Bree and did I mention the food?

DAY 2

A helicopter ride to transfer us to the start of the trail provided us with a thrilling and spectacular experience across Te Waewae Bay.

A big uphill hike with many swing bridge crossings led us to the top of the Hump Ridge to be welcomed by the beautiful views of many of the neighbouring islands off the South Coast and the Fiordland mountains and lakes.

Arriving at Okaka, the lodge 'on top of the world' meant time to unwind and settle into our rooms and take a hot shower.

DAY 3

We began with a decent downhill. 20km of hiking to Port Craig Lodge.

After arriving with our knees and calves letting us know they had been well used, several of us went straight to the beach for a swim. The water was very refreshing as the next stop south across the water is Antarctica! We soon forgot about the cold when we were joined by a couple of Hector’s dolphins playing in the waves.

Hector’s dolphins are the smallest and rarest marine dolphins in the world. They are found only in the shallow coastal waters in New Zealand. What a treat.

At the end of each day, we managed to relax with a glass of wine in the superb backcountry lodges and enjoy a hot shower and delicious three-course meals.

Day 3

This was our long walk back out, along trails, beaches, over swing bridges and viaducts. Hump Ridge is scheduled to become the 11th Great Walk of New Zealand in October this year and it will be a well-deserved achievement. Our team would all highly recommend this trail for a great week away.