The South Island of New Zealand has an vast range of walking tracks that take you through a variety of different environments. Each walk will inspire you as you take in some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. These walks are perfect for wildlife lovers as you will see a diverse range of plant, bird and animal life in their natural environments. If you are seasoned tramper and want to cross some new walks off your list, or you are just starting to get into tramping and need some advice about where to start, this article details some of the best tramping tracks in New Zealand’s South Island.
Abel Tasman Coastal Track
This track is one of the most popular walks in New Zealand. It is a well set up and comfortable track that is well maintained so you don’t need to be an athlete to do this multi-day walk. The track takes you through stunning coastlines, with golden sandy beaches all with a back drop of hills. Accommodation huts are provided, you will need to book these in advance, or you can camp.
Charming Creek Railway
This is a day walk located on the West Coast of the South Island. The track follows the 1912 Charming Creek railway which is around 20 kms. The track is easy to follow and has many interesting historical points to note along the way such as coal miners huts and a timber mill. There are no huts along the track but camping is allowed. The track takes you through abandoned railway tunnels which are dark and wet so it is worth taking a torch with you.
Cape Foulwind
This 7 km walk will take you along the coastline of New Zealand’s West Coast. The track is wheelchair accessible and passes various points of interest including Cape Foulwind lighthouse and a seal colony. The track is covered in sea shells and its coastal proximity makes it a haven for many types of bird life. As you walk the elevated track you get stunning views of the coastline, sea and farmland.
Before setting out on any walk it is important that you have adequate clothing like tramping boots, a good hat – such as a bucket hat or other full brimmed hat, food and other supplies such as a tracker and first aid kit. New Zealand has a changeable climate and it can even feel like four seasons in one day some of the time.
If you are tramping in the spring and summer months it is essential you wear a bucket hat whenever you are in the great New Zealand outdoors. Bucket hats provide shade and protection from the harsh New Zealand sun. Even on cloudy days the sun is very strong in New Zealand so most people can be seen wearing a bucket hat whenever they are outdoors.
Our company, Westland Workgear, is a South Island business that sells clothing to trampers and outdoor enthusiasts right across the country. The bucket hats we sell are durable, stylish, come in a range of colours and styles, and offer great protection from the New Zealand climate. Don’t feel the heat on your next walk.
Westland Work Gear Blog 