Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions for walking the Milford Track, Routeburn Track or the Kepler Track, alternatively contact us and one of our local experienced team will be able to help.
Fitness
Do I need to be an experienced tramper?
No. We will give you a briefing prior to departure for the track. You will have no problems making your way to the Department of Conservation huts. The tracks are very clearly marked and there are DOC staff in residence at each of the huts. They have radio telephones for weather forecasts and emergencies.
How fit do I need to be?
The Routeburn and Milford Tracks can be enjoyed by all ages who are of reasonable fitness. Many thousands of people have enjoyed these Great Walks (ages ranging from 10-70 years old). To enjoy the walks you need to be able to carry a backpack with your personal belongings, cooking utensils, food and sleeping bag (see checklist), over mountain tracks from 10-15km or 4-6 hours walking per day.
Do I need a guide?
If you are capable of following a basic map and trail markings and are comfortable with your fitness level and carrying your own pack then the answer is no. The Routeburn and Milford tracks are a great introduction to tramping, offering a variety of terrain over well established tracks.
Facilities
What are the huts like?
Well serviced with gas for cooking, mattresses on bunk beds, running water and flush toilets. Trampers are expected to leave the huts tidy and to pack out what they pack in.
Will I have to carry out my rubbish/garbage with me on the tracks?
As there are no waste facilities on any of the walking tracks you are required to carry all rubbish out with you.
What about fresh water on the Milford Track, Routeburn Track and Kepler Track?
You can refill your water at all DOC huts and also at running streams along the way, generally speaking you don't need to boil the water on the Milford/Routeburn and Kepler Tracks. Giardia may be present in some areas. Regular testing is not carried out. If you wish to treat water boil it for five minutes, use a filter, or chemically treat it.
Environment
What kind of conditions can I expect?
The Routeburn and Milford Tracks are over changing terrain. You can expect anything from warm sunny days through to cold alpine conditions (see checklist). Expect typical Fiordland weather (high annual rainfall) on the Milford Track. The surfaces of the track vary from well trodden, to areas of rough terrain (e.g. over rock and tree roots). If in any doubt as to what to pack follow the checklist.
What about sandflies, how bad are they?
Definitely bring insect repellent (which you can purchase at our Kiwi Discovery retail shop).
Equipment
How heavy will my pack be?
It’s up to you, but we suggest that your personal belongings, cooking utensils, food and sleeping bag not exceed 15-18 lbs, 7-10 kgs.
What sort of food do I take?
Most people prefer to take lightweight goods that will travel easily, therefore dried packet foods are good. Noodles, pasta and rice instant dinners, soups, dried fruits, nuts and high energy foods, such as chocolate. You may wish to take fresh food for the first meal.
Transport and Accommodation
Do I need to book in advance for the Milford/Routeburn and Kepler Tracks?
Late October through to April you are required to have reservations on the tracks due to limited numbers allowed in the huts, also this is considered the 'Great Walks' season so the tracks are especially busy.
Can I store my bags anywhere while I am walking the Milford/Routeburn or Kepler Tracks?
Yes, for only $10 we can store your bags for up to 7 days, however most accommodation will allow you to store your luggage with them provided you are staying with them on your return.
Do I need to book in advance for track transport?
Yes, reservations are essential for all track transport, especially for the Milford Track.
