Kepler TrackIndependent Tramping

Southland – 2009/2010 SeaSon

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Cover photo: Alpine section of the Kepler Track. Photo: DOC

The Kepler TrackThe Kepler Track, a 60 kilometre circular track, traverses through spectacular scenery in Fiordland National Park; part of Te Wähipounamu - South West New Zealand World Heritage Area and is administered by the Department of Conservation on behalf of the New Zealand Public.

Location

The Kepler Track is located in the south west of the South Island. It is a moderate walking track that takes three to four days to complete.

The nearest townships of Te Anau and Manapouri have a full range of accommodation. Shops in Te Anau can cater for all your tramping needs, including equipment hire.

North Island

South Island

Kepler Track

Above the cloud on top of Mt Luxmore, Fiordland National Park. Photo: Colin Bishop

ConTenTs

the Kepler track 3

Walking options 6

other activities 8

What to take 10

accommodation 12

transport 15

Weather Information 15

Safety Information 16

track notes 20

Kelper track Map 24

Winter tramping 27

history 30

natural history 31

Conservation Projects 34

how to Book 37

terms and Conditions 39

transport, equipment and accommodation 44

Contact details 47

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Getting There

The Kepler Track starts at the Lake Te Anau – Waiau River Control Gates, a ten minute drive or 45 minute walk from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre in Te Anau. Alternative access to the track is by crossing the swingbridge across the Waiau River at Rainbow Reach, a ten minute (12 km) drive from Te Anau.

Shuttle buses also operate during the summer months to entry and exit points on the track and a scheduled boat service provides access to Brod Bay. See the transport options listed in the back of this brochure.

Road disTances and Times

• TeAnautoLakeTeAnauControlGates – 5 km

• TeAnautoRainbowReach–12km

• TeAnautoManapouri–20km

• TeAnautoInvercargill–152km, 2 hours

• TeAnautoQueenstown–176km, 2 hours

• TeAnautoDunedin–290km, 3½ hours

• TeAnautoChristchurch–652km,8 hours

94

94

Te Anau

Lake

Te

Anau

Manapouri

Kepler Track

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Lake Manapouri

The bridge over the Waiau River at Rainbow Reach. Photo: C Carter

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Alpine section of the Kepler Track. Photo: DOC

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Kepler Track

Great Walks Peak season (late october to late april)

The Kepler Track can be walked in either direction as a four day/three night walk, staying in all three huts, or as a three day/two night walk, staying at Luxmore and Iris Burn Huts and finishing the track at Rainbow Reach. Bookings are essential for all overnight stays on the track and can be made online at www.doc.govt.nz, or by post, fax, email or phone.

off Peak/Winter season – (may to late october)

No bookings are required for the offpeak/winter season, although backcountry hut tickets or a Backcountry Pass are necessary. High snow loadings and avalanche danger can affect the track, especially between Luxmore Hut and Hanging Valley Shelter and may make it impassable. Some facilities are removed from the huts during the winter. Latest track and weather conditions should be checked before starting the track and an alternative walk may need to be considered if conditions are not suitable. See winter tramping notes later in brochure for more detailed information.

can i do it?

Physical fitness and good equipment will make the differ-ence to your enjoyment of your trip regardless of the weather. It is suggested that walkers start a fitness programme at least two months before departure and include carrying a full pack up and down stairs or hills. Walkers can expect:

• tocarryapackweighingupto15kgsforupto20kmsaday.

• aclimbanddescentofupto1000metres.

• partsofthetracktohaveroughandunevenwalkingsurfaces.

• at least one day of rain while on track and possible strong winds in the alpine section.

• towalkthroughwateruptohalfametredeepduringorafter heavy rain.

• tocrosssmallunbridgedstreams.

• togetwet,muddyboots

The alpine section of the Kepler Track, between Luxmore and iris Burn Huts, is not recommended for children under ten years of age due to the exposed moun-tainous environment and often adverse weather conditions.

Walking options

day Walks

There is no charge for those wishing to day walk on the Kepler Track and bookings are not required.

• ControlGatestoDockBay–1hourreturn

• ControlGatestoBrodBay–3hoursreturn

• ControlGatestoMt.Luxmore–8-10hoursreturn

• ControlGatestoRainbowReach–2½hours

• RainbowReachtoShallowBayorMoturauHut–3-3½hours return

Further information about these walks can be found in the brochure Day Walks in Fiordland National Park, available from the Department of Conservation in Te Anau or on the website www.doc.govt.nz

overnight Walks

Those with limited time, experience or fitness may choose to walk only part of the Kepler Track, staying a night in either Luxmore Hut or Moturau Hut.

Moturau Hut Photo: DOC

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other Activities

Guided Walks

overnight trips

There are no DOC approved concessions for overnight guided walks on the Kepler Track during the Great Walks Peak Season.

day-walks

There are a number of guided day-walk opportunities on the Kepler Track. Contact the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre in Te Anau for current operators and options.

Fishing

Trout fishing is possible on both Lakes Te Anau and Manapouri, the Iris Burn and Waiau Rivers. A fishing licence is required. Please ensure you are aware of current fishing season dates, regulations and catch limits.

The invasive alga Didymo (Didymosphenia geminata) is present in Lakes Te Anau and Manapouri and in many of the waterways surrounding Fiordland National Park. To combat its spread, all waterway users must check, clean and dry all equipment before moving from one waterway to another.

Standard and special licences are required to fish in Fiordland National Park. Please check for the latest requirements one week prior to your trip.

Kea are commonly found along the Kepler Track. Photo: Colin Bishop

cHecK, cLean, dRy

Stop the spread of didymo and other freshwater pests.

Remember to Check, Clean, Dry

all items before entering, and when moving between,

waterways.

Hunting

Hunting is not permitted on the Kepler Track. Hunters can use the track as access to the side valleys, where limited hunting opportunities are available. Crossing the Iris Burn River to access these valleys can be hazardous at times.

Rifles must be carried with bolt removed when on the track. A hunting permit is required, available from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre.

Kayaking

There are excellent kayaking opportunities on both Lakes Te Anau and Manapouri. Please check with the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre for the latest didymo restrictions and cleaning requirements at least a week prior to your trip.

mountain Biking

Mountain biking is not permitted on the Kepler Track.

dogs and other Pets

ItisanoffenceundertheNationalParksAct1980tobringdogs and other introduced animals into Fiordland National Park. Please leave your animals at home.

Kayaking on Lake Manapouri. Photo: Andy Wards

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What to TakeYour pack should fit well and weigh no more than 30% of your body weight. Reassess its contents if it is too heavy. Be realistic – every gram counts!

The Kepler Track traverses a high alpine area. The gear listed below is essential no matter how warm it is on the day of departure. Most equipment is available for hire or purchase in Te Anau. A full range of food is available from supermarkets in Te Anau. Basic stores are available at Manapouri.

clothing

You will need at least one set of clothes to walk in and another dry set to change into at night. It may not be possible to dry clothes in the huts. It is essential that this clothing is carried as your safety and the safety of others could well depend on it.

NB: cotton clothing such as jeans, T-shirts and sweatshirts is not suitable. Polypropylene, which is quick drying (but can be flammable), is recommended.

• Boots–needtobecomfortableandwellbrokenin

• Socks(wool/polypropylene)–2pairs

• Shorts(nylon)

• Shirt(wool/polypropylene)

• Longjohns/trousers(wool/polypropylene)

• Jersey/Jacket(wool/polarfleece)

• Undershirts/Tshirtwool/polypropylene)

• Mittens/Gloves(wool/polypropylene)

• Raincoat(waterproof,windproofwithhood)

• Overtrousers(windandwaterproof)

• Woollenhat/balaclava,sunhatandsunglasses.

• Extrasocks,underwear,shirtorlightweightjersey.

Appropriate clothing for walking the

Kepler Track. Photo: Mountain

Safety Council

Personal equipment

• Pack,withlargewaterproof/plasticliner

• Sleepingbag(goodqualitydownorhollofil)

• Matches/lighterinwaterproofcontainer

• Torchandsparebatteries

• Eatingutensils(knife,fork,spoon,plate,cup)

• Cookingutensils(pot/pan/billyandcleaningutensils)

• Toiletgear–soap,toothpaste,toiletpaper,smalltowel(do not wash or use soap in lakes or streams)

• Firstaidkit(insectrepellent,sunscreen,blisterkits,painrelief, assorted bandages)

• Survivalkit(survivalblanket,whistle,paper,pencil,highenergy snack food)

• Drinkbottle–1to2litrecapacity(youneedtodrinkregularly during the day)

• Optionalextras–camera,lightweightshoesforinhut,ear plugs for communal bunkrooms (you will be sharing huts with up to 55 other walkers)

• Camperswillrequireatent,groundsheetandgascooker

Food

Food is not available for purchase on the track

Food should be lightweight, fast cooking and high in energy value e.g:

• Breakfast–cereal,firmbread,honeyorotherspreads

• Lunch–crackerbiscuits,cheese,salami,margarine,jam/jelly, fruit.

• Dinner–instantsoup,pasta/rice,driedvegetables/fruit,cheese or dehydrated (freeze dry) meals.

You will also need snacks, biscuits, muesli bars, tea/coffee, powdered fruit drink, and emergency food (in case of any delays on the track).

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AccommodationCamping is restricted to the campsites at Brod Bay and Iris Burn. Staying overnight in the shelters at Forest Burn and Hanging Valley is not permitted.

Huts

There are three Department of Conservation Huts on the track – Luxmore, Iris Burn and Moturau.

Walkers are expected to leave the accommodation clean and tidy and carry their rubbish out. Smoking is not permitted in the huts or shelters on the track.

During the summer season Department of Conservation track staff are stationed at each site. They are equipped with radios for use in emergencies and for weather forecasts. For your own safety please sign the hut books on your arrival.

HUT FaciLiTies and seRVices

PeaK sUmmeR season

oFF- PeaK WinTeR season

Living area

Gas cookers and gas Yes No

Lighting Yes No

Heating/fireplace Yes Yes

Fuel for heating Yes No

Cold running water in huts Yes No

Nearby water supply No Yes

communal Bunkrooms

Individual bunks with mattresses Yes Yes

Platform bunks with mattresses Yes Yes

Washrooms

Hand basins/cold water only Yes No

Flush toilets Yes No

Pit toilets No Yes

Showers No No

General

Food available for purchase No No

Electric power No No

Hut staff Yes Sometimes

camping

There are two camping opportunities on the Kepler Track. The two designated campsites are at Brod Bay and near Iris Burn Hut. The use of hut facilities by campers is not permitted.

camPsiTe FaciLiTies PeaK sUmmeR

season

oFF- PeaK WinTeR season

Cooking shelter Yes Yes

Gas cookers and gas No No

Cold water supply Yes No

Use of hut facilities No No

Pit toilets Yes Yes

Toilets

Please use toilets at the huts and shelters. If this is not possible, bury toilet waste well away from watercourses. Drinking water at the huts and shelters comes from rivers and lakes.

Water

To avoid dehydration you will need to drink regularly while walking, even on cooler days. Water is not always available along the Kepler Track and should be carried between huts. Drinking water at the huts and shelters comes from nearby rivers, lakes or roof catchments.

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.

Luxmore Hut. Photo: DOC

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TransportThe track is well serviced by public transport. There are daily bus departures and pickups from the Control Gates and Rainbow Reach and daily water taxi services to Brod Bay during the Great Walks Peak Season. A selection of transport operators are listed on pages at the back of this brochure.

Warning - vehicles left at roads ends have sometimes been broken into or vandalised.

Weather InformationCentred at latitude 45° south, Fiordland National Park lies in an area of predominately westerly airstreams, known as the Roaring 40s, delivering high rainfall and changeable weather patterns to the area. Cold temperatures, snow, strong winds and heavy rain can occur at any time of the year.

Westerly winds pick up moisture as they cross the Tasman Sea. As winds rise to cross the Southern Alps the moisture condenses and falls as heavy rain in the west and snow at higher levels. Rain decreases in intensity towards the east.

Be prepared for at least one wet day on your trip. Please check for current conditions or weather warnings before departing on your trip.

WeaTHeR inFoRmaTion aT LUxmoRe HUT Highest Average Lowest Days with tempoC daily highoC tempoC rain

October 16 12 -3 7

November 20 12 -2 9

December 22 14 0 13

January 25 16 1 12

February 24 16 0 9

March 20 14 -1 10

April 17 11 -2 6

• Protectandrespectnaturalandcultural heritage

• Showcareforplantsandanimals

• Keepwaterwaysclean

• Takeallyourrubbishwithyou

• Usetoiletsprovided

• Carryafuelstove

• Stayontracksandcampcarefully

• Sharetheoutdoors-beconsiderate of others

• Toitütewhenua-leavetheland

undisturbed

Left – Iris Burn Falls. Photo: DOC

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safety Information

safety

your safety and the decisions you make are your responsibility. The information provided below will assist you to make those decisions but it is not all inclusive. Only you know how fit you are, and whether you have the appropriate skills to handle a situation if conditions are not the best.

Cell phone coverage on the Kepler Track cannot be guar-anteed. Personal locator beacons and mountain radios are strongly recommended during the winter season.

The Department of Conservation brochure “Planning a trip in the backcountry?” is available free of charge from DOC offices or on the website. It gives practical advice travelling in the New Zealand bush.

The New Zealand Mountain Safety Council also produce some excellent brochures, available free, about safety in the New Zealand bush, i.e., “Going Bush?”, “Survival” and “Avalanches”. Visit their website – www.mountainsafety.org.nz

intentions/Trip Plan

It is recommended that everyone leaves a written intention of their trip with a responsible friend, relative or at the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre. Intentions or trip plans should include:

• detailsofwhichhutsorcampsitesyouintendtostayat

• therouteyouintendtotaketogetthere

• whereandwhenyouwillfinishthetrack

• howyouaregettingtoandfromthetrack,includingwhere your car will be parked or the transport company you intended to use

• whatthepersonholdingyourintentions/tripplanformshould do if you do not return by due date.

Walkers should sign the hut books each night and, on their return, contact the person they left their intentions with to confirm they are back safely.

injury or illness

If an injury or illness occurs while walking the Kepler Track during the Great Walks Peak Season, walkers should contact Department of Conservation staff . They may be able to arrange an emergency evacuation from the track if required. First aid kits should be carried by all walkers.

During the off-peak/winter season, a mountain radio and personal locator beacon should be carried by each group.

Flood areas

After heavy rain flooding can occur in the Iris Burn Valley. Stream and river levels will drop rapidly once rain stops. If you are caught between streams which are in flood, seek higher ground and wait for water levels to drop.

High Winds

Strong winds, which can blow walkers off their feet, can occur in the section of track between Luxmore Hut and the descent to the Iris Burn Valley.

avalanches

From Luxmore Hut to Hanging Valley Shelter, the Kepler Track passes through nine avalanche paths.

• Avalanchescanoccuratanytimebutaremostcommonduring or directly after snow and rain, especially from late August to early November.

• Avalancheandsnowhazardcanchangerapidlyfromlow to high within a 24 hour period.

• Startzonesofavalanchepathscannotbeseenfromthetrack.

• Donotwalkbelowotherwalkers.

Heat exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is usually caused by warm temperatures and dehydration - not enough fluid being drunk to replace that lost through sweating.

A person with early stages of heat exhaustion may show weakness, dizziness, nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite and sweating. To treat heat exhaustion, find a cool place to rest and give the victim water. Water is not always available along the Kepler Track and should be carried between huts.

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Hypothermia

During cold, wet and windy conditions, exposure and hypothermia (drop in core body temperature) can affect anyone and can kill. From the initial signs to unconscious-ness can take as little as 30 minutes.

Travel along the alpine section, from Luxmore Hut to the Iris Burn Valley (approximately 14.6km), can be difficult due to strong winds, which are common in the area. Wind gusts above 80 km per hour are possible and will greatly increase the wind-chill factor on cooler days.

Any of the following factors, or combination of factors, can led to hypothermia – wet clothing, wind chill, lack of food, fatigue, injury, anxiety or recent illness.

Someone with the early stages of hypothermia may be shivering, clumsy, confused, have slurred speech, expe-riencing numbness in their arms and legs and deny they have a problem.

To treat hypothermia you should immediately make or find shelter, get the victim into warm, dry clothing and put them in a sleeping bag, give them warm, sweet drinks, monitor their conditon and seek immediate medical help.

The New Zealand Mountain Safety Council produces an excellent brochure, available free, about recognising the signs and prevention of hypothermia.

Lost

The Kepler Track is well marked but if you become lost, stop, find shelter and stay calm. Put on extra clothing and assist rescuers should you hear them searching for you.

Fires

Fire is a major threat within Fiordland National Park and open fires are not permitted.

Track closures

At times, avalanche danger (especially from August to November), flooding and high winds (which can occur at any time) may cause parts of the Kepler Track to become impassable. In these cases the Department of ConservationmaychoosetoCLOSEpartorallofthetrack.

Walkers due to start the track may be unable to proceed. If this is the case, a full refund will be given.

Walkers already on the track will be notified by DOC staff, located at each hut, of the hazard or weather conditions as soon as possible. If the track has to be closed, walkers will be informed of their options. These could include spending an extra night at a hut, returning via the direction already walked, or being flown by helicopter over a hazard area.

Please refer to the cancellation policy in the ‘Terms and Conditions’ list included in your confirmation letter, or the online booking system pages of our website – www.doc.govt.nz

During the Off Peak/Winter Season walkers must be totally self sufficient. It is strongly recommended to carry a mountain radio and/or personal locator beacon (PLB). Intentions of your trip, including transport to and from the track, should be left with a responsible friend or relative, or at the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre in Te Anau.

Cold, wet, or windy conditions can cause hypothermia. Photo: DOC

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Track notesPlease refer to the track profile below and the track map on the following pages. Track times are approximate only and will vary according to fitness, pace of the group, weather and direction of travel. Most walkers spend the first night at Luxmore Hut as they are in the best place to assess the weather for the next day’s walk across the exposed alpine section of the track and also have the first day’s hard climb behind them.

Te anau to control Gates

45 mins

Follow the path from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre to the Te Anau Wildlife Centre and to the track at the far end through the willow trees. The track then follows the shores of Lake Te Anau to the Control Gates.

control Gates to Brod Bay

5.6 km, 1 hr 30 min

The track follows the lakeshore through mountain and red beech, with kamahi and some scattered rimu and miro. After passing an attractive grove of hard tree ferns and crown fern, Dock Bay is reached. Continue across the Coal Creek bridge and follow the lakeshore to Brod Bay. Brod Bay is a delightful place to swim and to camp if you have had a late start. Drinking water is available from the lake.

Brod Bay to Luxmore Hut

8.2 km, 3 hr 30 min - 4 hr 30 min

The track to the bushline starts about halfway along the beach and climbs steadily for about two hours to limestone bluffs; an ideal lunch stop. After another hour’s climb the bushline is reached, providing panoramic views of the Te

AnauBasin,TakitimuMountains,andtheSnowdonandEarlMountains. The Luxmore Hut is about a 45 minute walk from the bushline. This part of the track is marked by orange-topped snow poles which are helpful in poor weather conditions. At Luxmore Hut there is an option of a trip to the nearby Luxmore Cave. Please indicate your intentions in thebookprovidedinthehutwhenvisitingtheCave.Eachperson should take a minimum of two light sources.

Luxmore Hut to iris Burn Hut

14.6km, 5 - 6 hr

In heavy rain, strong winds or wintery weather, wait at the hut until the weather improves. From Luxmore Hut the track climbs gradually to a ridge just below the summit ofMountLuxmore(1472m).Atenminutesidetriptothe summit of Mount Luxmore provides excellent views.

The alpine section, between Luxmore and Iris Burn huts. Photo: Olivia Dovey

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The track then descends to a shelter close to the Forest Burn Saddle. Beware of wind gusts when crossing the saddle. The track sidles, climbs and then follows a ridge system for about two hours to the Hanging Valley Shelter. It then follows a long, open ridge toward the Iris Burn and descends via a series of zigzags into a hanging valley. The track descends through forest, and provides a view of a largenaturallandslide.IrisBurnHut(497m)issitedinalarge tussock clearing. For a pleasant evening stroll head up the valley for 20 minutes to Iris Burn Waterfall.

iris Burn Hut to moturau Hut

16.2km, 5 - 6 hr

A steady day’s tramp down through beech forest, riverside clearings and a gorge. The track climbs over a low saddle and wanders through mixed forest to The Big Slip, formed duringheavyraininJanuary1984.Abouttwoandahalfhours from the Iris Burn Hut the track reaches Rocky Point,

Swingbridge over the Forest Burn. Photo: Pania Dalley

a work camp for track maintenance and a good place for a lunch stop. Below Rocky Point the track sidles through a gorge.There is a slippery and tricky section of track here that needs to be negotiated - extreme care is required.

Nearing Lake Manapouri the track turns left through lowland beech and podocarp forest. It follows the lakeshore around Shallow Bay to Moturau Hut, situated beside a beautiful beach with panoramic views of Lake Manapouri.

moturau Hut to Rainbow Reach

6.0km, 1 hr 30 min - 2 hr

The last day is a gentle stroll through beech forest. The track crosses a wetland and then the meandering Forest Burn just above its outlet into Balloon Loop, an old part oftheUpperWaiauRiver.ItthenfollowstheWaiauRiverterrace to the swingbridge at Rainbow Reach. Trampers can catch a shuttle bus service from Rainbow Reach to Te Anau over the summer. Reservations are essential in winter.

Rainbow Reach to control Gates

9.5km, 2hr 30 mins – 3hr 30 mins

The track up the Waiau River from Rainbow Reach is well worth walking for the variety of forest and river views. This section provides good opportunities for trout fishing.

control Gates to Te anau

45 min

Follow the track along the lake shore to the willow trees and on to the Wildlife Centre. From the Wildlife Centre follow the signs to the Visitor Centre, along the path past the Yacht Club.

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L a k e T e A n a u

S o u t h A r m

F o r e s t Bu r n

I r i s B u r n

Hidden Lakes

Waiau

River

C o a l C r e e k

Brod Bay

Dock Bay

Shallow Bay

L a k e M a n a p o u r i

Lake Victoria

TE ANAU

�94

TE ANAU

MANAPOURI

ROAD

�95

Moturau Hut

Luxmore Hut

Iris Burn Hutand Camp Brod Bay Camp

llIr BBurn urn FallFallFF ssis Bis BuBBBuuurr

Hanging ValleyShelter

Forest Burn Shelter

Shallow BayHut (6 bunks)

Rainbow Reach

Luxmore Cave

Rocky Point

Mt Luxmore

ENTRYEXIT

ENTRYEXIT

J A C K S O N P E A K S

Rona Island

ControlGates

Boat transport

FNP VISITOR CENTRE

HutShelterCampsite

Picnic AreaToiletShuttle Bus

0 1 2 3 4 5 km

N

K E P L E R M O U N TA I N S

Kepler Track MapsThe Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre in Te Anau has maps of the Kepler Track area

available for purchase.Kepler Track Map

Scale 1:60 000Topo50 Maps CD07 & CD08

Scale 1:50 000

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L a k e T e A n a u

S o u t h A r m

F o r e s t Bu r n

I r i s B u r n

Hidden Lakes

Waiau

River

C o a l C r e e k

Brod Bay

Dock Bay

Shallow Bay

L a k e M a n a p o u r i

Lake Victoria

TE ANAU

�94

TE ANAU

MANAPOURI

ROAD

�95

Moturau Hut

Luxmore Hut

Iris Burn Hutand Camp Brod Bay Camp

llIr BBurn urn FallFallFF ssis Bis BuBBBuuurr

Hanging ValleyShelter

Forest Burn Shelter

Shallow BayHut (6 bunks)

Rainbow Reach

Luxmore Cave

Rocky Point

Mt Luxmore

ENTRYEXIT

ENTRYEXIT

J A C K S O N P E A K S

Rona Island

ControlGates

Boat transport

FNP VISITOR CENTRE

HutShelterCampsite

Picnic AreaToiletShuttle Bus

0 1 2 3 4 5 km

N

K E P L E R M O U N TA I N S

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Winter Tramping

General

During the Off Peak/Winter Season (May to mid October) the Kepler Track remains open, weather and track condi-tions permitting. There are fewer people walking the track and you cannot make a booking for the huts, but must buy backcountry hut tickets or have a Backcountry Hut Pass before you start. The track conditions and hut facilities during winter are different to conditions in summer.

After reading the notes below you must be absolutely confident you have the skills, fitness and equipment necessary to walk the track.

safety

a winter crossing of the alpine section of the Kepler track should only be attempted by experienced, well equipped parties. The Fiordland environment can be very inhospitable and unforgiving during winter and spring seasons.

• ThetrackoverthealpinesectionontheKeplerTrackis not marked and is often blanketed in thick snow. Navigation and alpine skills and equipment are essential for your survival.

• Avalanchesoccurdailyduringsomeconditions–youmust enquire at the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre before starting the track and follow the information given.

• Itisstronglyrecommendedthatyoucarryamountainradio or a personal locator beacon (preferably both) for communication and safety backup.

• Itisessentialtoletsomeoneresponsibleknowyourintentions or trip plan and your proposed date of return. You can leave your intentions at the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre in Te Anau.

• Youmustbetotallyself-sufficient.

• Yoursafetyandthedecisionsyoumakewhileonthe track are fully your responsibility.

Weather and avalanches

During the winter months Fiordland can be very wet and cold, the days are short, the mountains are high and therefore let little sunlight into the valleys, and track condi-

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Cold temperatures, snow, strong winds and heavy rain can occur at any time of the year. Photo: Olivia Dovey

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tions change as the weather changes. Rain falls as snow in the alpine areas. On clear days the snow turns to ice.

Avalanches are a frequent activity – there are nine avalanche paths between Luxmore Hut and Hanging Valley Shelter and their starting zones cannot be seen from the track. The risk is higher during or directly after snow and rain - this can change quickly over a 24 hour period.

The Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre staff will advise if a through trip is possible, taking into account the forecasted weather at the time of your enquiry. However if conditions change while you are on the track, you will need to make your own decision whether to continue, stay at the hut or turn back.

always check current weather and avalanche condi-tions before departing on your trip. see avalanche notes in the ‘safety’ section of this brochure.

Walking options

Day 1: Te Anau to Luxmore Hut

Day 2: Luxmore Hut to Iris Burn Hut (alpine section)

Day 3: Iris Burn Hut to Moturau Hut or Rainbow Reach (exit the track by shuttle bus)

Day 4: Moturau Hut to Te Anau

If a through trip is not advisable then the following is also an option:

Day 1: Te Anau to Luxmore Hut

Day 2: Luxmore Hut to Luxmore Summit and alpine section and return

Day 3: Luxmore Hut to Te Anau

Hut Fees and Facilities

Fees

Bookings are not required during the Off Peak/Winter Season (May to mid October), but you must purchase backcountry huttickets($15peradult(18yearsandover),17andunder–free) or a Backcountry Hut Pass, available at any Department of Conservation Office or Visitor Centre. Please record your Backcountry Hut Pass number beside your name in the hut book or deposit your hut tickets in the hut ticket box.

Facilities

Radios, gas for cooking rings, fuel for heating and lighting are removed from the huts. Running water is not provided at the huts. A pit toilet is provided. There are no staff at the huts.

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compliance

Random Compliance checks will be carried out on the track during the winter season by roving track rangers.

camping

Camping is only permitted at Brod Bay and Iris Burn Campsites. There is no charge for camping during the winter.

Hut Use

Trampers are expected to leave the huts clean and tidy and to stand mattresses upright to air. Please do not put food scraps in the sink or toilets. You must carry out all your rubbish.

Fire

Remember to replace all wood used (do not cut down living trees). Please put all ashes into the metal ash drums provided. Two huts were nearly burned to the ground over recent years. There was fire damage to floors and walls caused by hot ashes left inside in a plastic bucket and a cardboard container.

Water

Luxmore Hut: Please leave the water running through the by-pass outside. If you close this off you can flood the hut and the water will freeze and may not be available for the rest of the winter.

Iris Burn Hut: Water is available from the water tank at the rear of the hut. When this freezes you need to go to the river.

Moturau Hut: Water stays connected all winter. If it is not running please advise the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre in Te Anau.

If you doubt the quality of the water use a water filter, iodine drops or boil it.

Toilets

There are toilets available at each campsite and hut. You must use these so water is not polluted. Take your own toilet paper.

Transport options

There is no scheduled transport to or from the Kepler Track during the winter months. It is essential to make bookings with operators prior to starting the track. Minimum numbers may apply.

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HistoryA wide selection of books on this topic are available from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre.

Rakaihautu,legendaryleaderoftheMaoricanoeUruao,is said to have named the great lakes while exploring the interior of the South Island. During a period of wet weather his party found a large and beautiful lake which they named Te Aria Au, meaning cave of rain, and just south ofitanotherlakewhichRakaihautunamedRotoUa,thelakewhererainisconstant.TodayweknowRotoUaasManapouri, a corruption of Manawa Popore (lake of the sorrowing heart), the original name of North Mavora Lake.

People seeking food from the forests, lakes and rivers oftheareafollowedtheseearlyexplorers.Evidenceofseasonal Maori occupation has been found around the bays of both lakes and in the valleys which provided a link to the Fiordland coast.

AssistedbyMaoriguidesEuropeanexplorersCharlesNairn and William Stephen found the lakes in 1852.

Richard Henry, Fiordland’s first ranger, lived at the southern end of Lake Te Anau for many years and often explored the Kepler Mountains. Surveyor JamesMcKerrownamedtherangeafterthe17thCentury German astron-omerJohannesKepler.

EarlytracksupontoMt.Luxmore were cut by runholderJackBeertoprovide summer grazing for his sheep.

The Kepler Track was built with funding from the New Zealand Tourist and Publicity Department and openedinFebruary1988,in time for New Zealand’s National Park Centennial Celebrations. Today over 8000 people walk the track each year.

Te Wähipounamu – South West New Zealand

World Heritage Area

South West New Zealand is one of the great wilderness areas of the Southern Hemisphere. Known to Mäori as Te Wähipounamu (the place of greenstone), the South West New Zealand World Heritage Area incorporates Aoraki/Mt.Cook, Westland /Tai Poutini, Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks, covering 2.6 million hectares.

World Heritage is a global concept that identifies natural and cultural sites of world significance, places so special that protecting them is of concern for all people.

Some of the best examples of animals and plants, once found on the ancient supercontinent Gondwana, live in the World Heritage Area.

natural HistoryA wide selection of books on these topics is available from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre.

Geology

The Kepler Mountains are built of metamorphic and plutonic rocks formed deep in the earth’s crust. Resting on this basement material are younger sediments like limestone formed when the area subsided below sea level before being raised again. Impressive limestone bluffs are found just below the bushline on Mount Luxmore. Glacial deposits dating from the last Ice Age mantle the lowlands around Lakes Te Anau and Manapouri. Glaciers scoured the Fiordland landscape for tens of thousands of years, carving the fiords, lakes and deep U-shapedvalleyssotypicalofthe area.

Flora

Beech is the main forest tree of the Kepler Mountains. At lower altitudes mountain, silver and red beech grow alongside kamahi, and podocarps such as miro, rimu, kahikatea and totara. Toward the tree line and in the Iris Burn, silver beech dominates. A feature of the forest is the abundance of ferns, mosses and perching plants. Between Lake Manapouri and Rainbow Reach a wetland dominated by wire rush and sphagnum moss provides an interesting contrast. Manuka shrubland alongside the Waiau River between Rainbow Reach and the control gates marks the siteofJackBeer’sfarm.Aroundthelakeshoreskowhaitreesprovide a splash of yellow when flowering in the spring.

Above the bushline snow tussocks dominate. Dracophyllum, mountain daisies, native bluebells and gentians are also commonly seen.

Kepler Bluffs. Photo: Helen Kettles

32 33

common Fauna

open areas Redpolls, silvereyes

Silvereye. Photo: R. Morris

Beech forest Bellbirds, tomtits, grey warblers, fantails, robins, chaffinches

Robin. Photo: R.Morris

Bushline Brown creepers

Brown Creeper. Photo: M.F. Soper

subalpine scrub Pipits, kea, skylarks, redpolls, yellowhammers

Kea. Photo: J. Edwards

Fast-flowing river Whio (Blue duck)

Blue ducks. Photo: R. Morris

Lakes Paradise ducks, mallard and grey ducks, scaup, black-billed gull

Mallard duck. Photo: J.L. Kendrick

Waiau River Little shags, black shags, kingfishers, native bat (at night)

Black shag. Photo: G. Sherley

at night Ruru (morepork), brown kiwi, weka (woodhen)

Weka. Photo: Dick Veitch

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At lower altitudes mountain, silver and red beech grow alongside kamahi, and podocarps such as miro, rimu, kahikatea and totara. Photo: DOC

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Conservation Projects

stoats

The Kepler Challenge Race Committee, along with the Department of Conservation, are carrying out an intensive stoat trapping project along most of the Kepler Track. For information on the stoat trapping programme including results so far see www.keplerchallenge.co.nz.

Stoats were introduced to New Zealand in the 1880s to control the population explosion of rabbits, another intro-duced animal. Prior to this New Zealand’s native birds had enjoyed an environment free of of predatory mammals. The introduction of stoats has seen a steady decline of bird species in the New Zealand bush and today the stoat is considered the greatest threat to many species.

Stoat traps are placed at approximately 200 metre intervals along the length of the Kepler Track. It is hoped this work will assist the recovery of kiwi, whio/blue duck, mohua, kaka and many other forest birds.

Takahë

The takahë is an endangered, flightless bird. These birds are often mistaken with pukeko. Takahë have a red bill and shield, dark blue head, neck and breast, peacock blue shoulders, olive green back and red legs. However they are approximately three times heavier (at 3kg) than the finer built, more common swamp hen, the pukeko.

Today there are approximately 230 birds remaining both in the wild and in captivity, an increase from approximately 160 birds

Kepler Challenge Race Committee members distribute stoat traps along the Kepler Track. Photo: DOC

20 years ago. Their stronghold is in the Murchison Mountains, which is the mountain range seen north, across South Fiord, from Luxmore Hut and the Kepler Mountains. This area has been set aside as a ‘Specially Protected Area’ and access is restricted to permit holders only. The takahë, once thought to be extinct, was rediscovered in this remote mountain area in 1948byGeoffreyOrbell.Inthe30yearsbetweentheirredis-coveryand1978itwasestimatedthepopulationdeclinedby60%. This decline was due mainly to stoat predation of the eggs and young chicks and competition for food with red deer, which were present in extremely high numbers.

Takahë pairs normally lay two eggs each spring, but generally only one of these chicks survives its first year. To increase the chance of chick survival through this first year, Department of Conservation biodiversity staff monitor all known takahë nests sites in the Murchison Mountains, removing infertile eggs and collecting one of the two eggs laid. This leaves the adult birds to concentrate on raising a singlechick.EggscollectedfromthewildaretransferredtoaCaptiveRearingUnitnearTeAnauwheretheyarearti-ficially incubated and hatched. At one year of age chicks are reintroduced into the wild.

Predators are controlled through a stoat trapping programme in a 15,000 hectare section of the southeast Murchison Mountains. Deer numbers over the whole Special Area are managed through hunting.

Takahë can been seen at the Te Anau Wildlife Park, Mt Bruce Wildlife Centre near Masterton and island sanctuaries such as Tiritiri Matangi near Auckland. There is a slight possibility you may see a takahë in the Kepler Mountains as birds have ocas-sionally been seen outside of the Murchison Mountains area.

Adult takahë and chicks. Photo: DOC

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Pekapeka/Bats

Pekapeka/bats are New Zealand’s only native land mammals. The New Zealand species are found no where else in the world. There are two main species; the long-tailed bat Chalinolobus tuberculatus and the lesser short-tailed bat Mystacina tuberculata. Most pekapeka weigh a tiny 8-15 grams, less than half the weight of a sparrow.

When humans arrived in New Zealand about 1000 years ago,nativeforestcoveredmorethan90%oftheland.Fire,logging, land clearance and introduced predators (stoats, rats, possums and cats have reduced pekapeka numbers to the point where scientists consider them endangered. The Department of Conservation has developed a recovery programme to ensure their survival.

Long-tailed bats are sometimes seen at twilight above grassland sections of the Kepler Track. However conserva-tioneffortsaremainlyfocusedintheEglintonValley,where

both species are found and intensive trapping and rat and possum control work is carried out.

The Department of Conservation gratefully acknowledges the support of local tourism company, RealJourneys,inthesupport of the Pekapeka/bat Recovery Programme.

How to BookBookingsarerequiredforthepeakseasonbetween27October2009and28April2010andwillopenat9am(NewZealandtime)onTuesday14July2009.

For those wishing to walk the Kepler Track outside the peak summer season please refer to the Winter Tramping section.

Before Booking

It is strongly recommended that you read the following sections before making a booking:

• Tracklocationandtraveltimes

• Whattotake

• Accommodation

• SafetyandTrackGuide

• TermsandConditions

Tickets

Please ensure you allow sufficient time to collect your tickets from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre the day before your trip starts. Tickets not collected by 2pm may be on sold. Personal Identification may be required when collecting tickets.

For safety and security reasons tickets will not be posted.

To make an online Booking

You can make a booking online through our website www.doc.govt.nz

You will require the following information:

• Namesandagesofallwalkers.

• Creditcard(VisaandMastercard)towhichpaymentwillbe charged via the ANZ Bank online secure payment system.

The Department of Conservation will not hold your credit card details. Personal information held about walkers will be used for booking purposes only and will not be handed out to any third parties.

The Department of Conservation gratefully

acknowledges the support of local

tourism company, Real Journeys, with the

Pekapeka/bat Recovery Programme.

Short-tailed bat. Photo: DOC

38 39

To make a manual Booking

You can book by sending the above information direct to the Great Walks Booking Office in Te Anau by either fax, mail, email or phone. Contact details are listed on the back of this booklet. Full payment in New Zealand dollars must accompany your booking.

commercial Groups

A concession (an official authorisation) is required to operate any commercial activity in an area managed by the Department of Conservation. Concessions are required for, but not restricted to: guiding operations (including tramping, walking, fishing, hunting, climbing, ski tours, kayaking, canoeing); transport services; commercial education or instruction activities.

The Department of Conservation managed huts and campsites on the Kepler Track cannot be booked by commercial operators.

Commercial agents wishing to make multiple bookings for facilities/services on behalf of customers must hold an agent agreement with or obtain permission from the Department of Conservation.

More information regarding concessions can be found on our website www.doc.govt.nz About DOC> Concessions and Permits>Concessions

Hut and campsite Prices

Details listed below are correct at time of printing. Prices charged will be those valid at the time of travel.

Unbooked Walkers

Walkers who do not have valid hut and campsite tickets will be charged a premium rate of the published fee for their age plus up to 100% of the adult rate, regardless of age.

Great Walks Peak season

Adult 18years +

Child/ Youth 0-17years

Hut per night $50 FreeCamp per night $15 Free

off peak Winter season

Adult 18years +

Child/ Youth 0-17years

Hut per night $15 FreeCamp per night Free Free

Terms and ConditionsThe terms and conditions detailed below are correct at time of printing. For current information please check the Department of Conservation website www.doc.govt.nz or contact the Department of Conservation Great Walks Booking Office in Te Anau.

Bookings not meeting the following Terms and Conditions are treated as invalid, and will be reversed (cancelled) by the Department of Conservation.

General

Bookings can only be made for people intending to use the facility/ies / service/s at the time of booking.

A booking is required for each adult, youth, child and infant intending to use a facility or service.

The given name, family name, age, gender and nation-ality of each party member must be entered at the time of booking.

Bookings are not transferable from one person/ entity to another.

Names listed on the booking as using facility/ies / service/s may not be substituted unless approved via a Department of Conservation office. Substitution of all or the majority of names listed on a booking will not be approved.

Those persons named on the booking may be required to produce proof of identity when collecting tickets or accessing facilities/services booked. Accepted forms of ID are a passport, driver’s licence, credit card or student ID.

Commercial and/or guided groups are not permitted to use Department of Conservation facilities/services unless authorised by the Department of Conservation via a Concession or other agreement.

Commercial Agents wishing to make multiple bookings for facilities/services on behalf of customers must hold an Agent agreement with or obtain permission from the Department of Conservation.

40 41

age Ranges

For booking purposes the following age classifications apply to all services provided by the Department of Conservation (DOC):

Infant Child Youth Adult

0 - 4 years 5 - 10 years 11-17years 18 years +

Services provided by other organisations may use other age ranges. Please check the particular services you require.

Persons aged 14 years and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Alpine sections of some tracks are not recommended for children under 10 years. Please check the specific track information on the website.

Prices

All prices are in New Zealand dollars and include GST (Goods and Services Tax).

Bookings made Online will automatically be charged to your credit card through the ANZ Bank secure payment network at the time the booking is made.

Accepted credit cards are Mastercard and Visa.

Credit Card information is not held by DOC for security reasons and must be resupplied if alterations or cancella-tions are made through a DOC office.

No bookings will be accepted without payment.

Prices, transport timetables and other details may change without notice.

discounts

Lake Waikaremoana, abel Tasman coast, Heaphy, Routeburn, milford and Kepler Tracks only.

A 10% discount is available for members of NZ Federated Mountain Club, NZ Deer Stalkers Association, LandSAR and NZ Mountain Safety Council Staff and Instructors who hold a Backcountry Hut Pass.

You can’t get these discounts when booking online. Instead, supply your membership details/number and Backcountry Hut Pass number to the office listed on the track information on www.doc.govt.nz, along with the details of what you want to book.

No other discounts are available.

Penalty Rates

For non-valid and unbooked accommodation on walking tracks.

Failure to have a valid booking for a facility/service for the date of use will result in penalty fees being charged in addition to the usual accommodation fee, and where there is no valid booking, the Department of Conservation does not guarantee access to that, or other, facilities/services on the track.

The penalty rate is the age rate plus the full adult fee.

alterations and cancellation Policies

General

Booking refunds will only be made to the person/ agent who made the original booking.

No refunds will be provided in cash.

Credit card details are not held by the Department of Conservation and will have to be resubmitted to the Department of Conservation office making your alteration, transfer or cancellation by phone, fax or mail. Sending credit card details by email is not recommended for security reasons.

Transfer of Booking dates

Transferring dates of a booking may only be done within the current booking period. Those wishing to change the start date of their booking to a date where bookings are not open must cancel their booking and rebook once bookings are open.

Where bookings are transferred to a date to which a higher fee / price period applies the difference in fees must be paid at the time of the transfer being made.

Where bookings are transferred to a date to which a lower fee/ price period applies the difference will be refunded less cancellation fees. The cancellation fee will be calcu-lated as per the table below. Credit card details must be supplied so transfer and refund can be processed.

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alterations via internet

Selected alterations and transfers that will not affect:

1. the cost or

2. change the facilities/services booked or

3. the people booked into those facilities/services,

can be made online up to two days prior to departure. After this date you must contact the Department of Conservation office listed on the confirmation letter/receipt. You are unable to add services or people to your booking. Instead you must make another booking or contact the Department of Conservation office listed on the confirma-tion letter/receipt.

alterations via doc office

Alterations may be made to any existing booking and may incur a fee of up to $10.

Altering/transferring booking dates 1 to 2 days prior to start date will incur 100% cancellation fee.

cancellations due to doc closures

If the Department of Conservation closes a facility/service due to severe weather or facility/service condi-tions, a full refund of the fee for the unused Department of Conservation facilities/services will be given.

Those visitors who have already started their trip/ booking may be required to leave before their trip/ booking is completed.

If your trip is cancelled by the Department of Conservation you must contact the Department of Conservation office listedonyourconfirmationletterwithin7daystoobtainyour refund or reschedule your trip. NO refund will be given after this time and trips will not be rescheduled.

Visitors will only be rescheduled if there are vacancies available once the service reopens.

cancellations by Visitors

If visitor / agent cancels their bookings the following cancellation fees apply. These fees are not negotiable.

Note: If the booking has been transferred to a later date then the original start date will be used for cancellation calculation purposes.

cancellation fees are based on the earliest start date. applies to all booked services

cancellation Fee

More than 10 days before the start date and within 48 hours of making the booking

0%

More than 10 days before the start date and more than 48 hours after making the booking

25%

Between 3 and 10 days before the start date 50%Between 1 and 2 days before the start date 100%On or after the start date 100%Medical circumstances that prevent customer walking track - must be accompanied by a medical certificate and requested no later than one month after the of the departure date

20%

Booked transport more than 24 hours prior to departure

0%

Booked transport less than 24 hours prior to departure or on day of departure or after departure date

100%

Travel insurance

The Department of Conservation recommends that you arrange travel insurance to guard against the loss of costs associated with cancellation or delay of your trip.

The Department of Conservation is unable to rearrange non Department of Conservation booked transport, accommodation and flight bookings if delays should occur.

Liability disclaimer

The Department of Conservation will not be liable for injury, damage or any costs incurred by visitors.

Transport, equipment and AccommodationPlease book with the relevant operator. Times and prices may not be applicable outside the Great Walks season.

Transport

KePLeR WaTeR TaxiDepartsforBrodBaydailyat8.30am-9.30am.Returntransport by arrangement. Contact Stev or Dale, ph032498364.Email:stevsaunders@xtra.co.nz

saFeR PaRKinG Te anaUTe Anau police encourage you noT to leave your car in public carparks.Goodrates,verysecure.Ph032497198.www.saferparking.co.nzEmail:saferparkingteanau@msn.com

TRacKneT

KeplerTrackShuttlesince1988.ToControlGatesat8.30am&9.30am:FromRainbowReachat10.00am/3pm/5pm.Taxior charter by arrangement, groups & schools welcome). TravelfromQueenstown,TeAnau,MilfordSound&Invercargillto Kepler, Routeburn, Hollyford, Milford & Mavora tracks. QualmarkEndorsed(*$7–$90).Ph:032497777or0800483262 (push 2). Web: www.tracknet.net;Email:res@tracknet.net

ReaL JoURneys While in Te Anau, visit the renowned Te Anau Glowworm Caves.RealJourneyswilldonate$10fromeachadultticket booked through www.doc.govt.nz to the Pekapeka (native short-tailed bat) Recovery Programme. RealJourneysalsooffersdaytimeandovernightcruisesinMilfordandDoubtfulSounds.Tel032497416, freephone 0800 65 65 01 (NZ only), www.realjourneys.co.nz

HiKesoUTH.com

Transport, independent and guided track packages. We help plan and book your itinerary to make the most of your walking adventure.Phone:0800733549.Email:hike@hikesouth.com

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equipment

oUTside sPoRTs

TeAnau–Queenstown–Wanaka.Bestintown! Qualityoutdoorclothing&equipment&friendlystaff.Rentals&Shopopen7days.Packs,Sleepingbags,Rainwear, Boots, Cookers – everything you’ll need. Ph032498195orBookonlinewww.outsidesports.co.nz

BeV’s TRamPinG GeaR

GreatWalksSpecial$130pp.Opendaily9am-12pmand5.30pm-7pm,closedSundayam. Website:www.bevs-hire.co.nzph/fax(03)or(027)249-7389.

KiWi discoVeRy

Equipmentforhire:packs,sleepingbags,boots,hikingpoles,rainwear&cookingequipmentetc.37CampSt,Queenstown034427340www.kiwidiscovery.com

accommodation

Te anaU LaKeFRonT BacKPacKeRs

Central lakefront location. Full range of accommodation in five lodges(*$24-$85).BBHhostel.Internet,gearstorage,off-street parking, spacious lounge areas and kitchens. Tracknet bus arranged here; information onsite. Lodge very popular so book your room today! 48-50 Lakefront Drive, Te Anau. Email:res@teanaubackpackers.co.nzPh032497713,Freecall0800200074.Website:www.teanaubackpackers.co.nz

ReaL JoURneysOvernight Cruises in Milford and Doubtful Sounds offer a very special experience – keep a look-out for wildlife as you cruise the fiord, explore by kayak or tender craft and enjoy delicious meals. Choice of private cabins or quad-share compartments. To book cruises or Te Anau GlowwormCavesTel032497416,freephone0800656501(NZ only), www.realjourneys.co.nz

Te anaU LaKeVieW HoLiday PaRK

The only Holiday Park with fabulous views of Lake Te Anau. Accommodationrangesfrommotelsfor2–7gueststobudgetaccommodation & tent sites. Opposite DOC; amenities include laundry,internet,TV,lockers&carstorage,TracknetHQon-site.Schools&groupswelcome.Qualmark4*+.77TeAnau-ManapouriHwy,TeAnau.Ph032497457or0800483262(push 1). Web: www.teanau.info;Email:res@teanau.info

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sTeameRs BeacH BacKPacKeRs

Opposite D.O.C; reasonably priced quality rooms in Lakeview Holiday Park. Private & shared options (singles, twin, doubles, quad). Sky TV, internet, pay phones, modern laundry & kitchen, drying room, OSP & car storage, lockers (*$24-$68).BBHhostel.Schools&groupsbyarrangement.77TeAnau-ManapouriHwy.Ph032497737or0800483262(push 3). Website: www.teanau.info;Emailres@teanau.info

yHa – Te anaU and QUeensToWn

YHATeAnauandYHAQueenstownareperfectlylocatedforthestart and end of your tramp. Our modern, stylish 4-star hostels have a wide selection of twin/double, ensuite, family and shared rooms. With well-equipped kitchens, bbq areas and chill out zones you can prepare or recover in comfort. Friendly staff will help you with booking activities and transport. Ph: 0800 278299Email:book@yha.co.nzWebsite:www.yha.co.nz

46 47

Published by department of ConservationSouthland ConservancyPo Box 743Invercargill.June 2009Crown Copyright

ISBN 978-0-478-14199-3 (Hardcopy)ISBN 978-0-478-14200-6 (Web pdf)

Contact Details

Great Walks Peak season

To make a booking or for further information about the Kepler Track during the Great Walks Peak season contact:

Great Walks Bookings office

Department of Conservation

LakefrontDrive,P.O.Box29

TeAnau,NEWZEALAND.

Tel.(03)2498514International++6432498514

Fax.(03)2498515International++6432498515

Email:greatwalksbooking@doc.govt.nz

Website: www.doc.govt.nz

Officehours: 8.00am-5pm(7days,27Oct–20Dec& 1 March – 30 April) 8am-6pm(7days,21Decemberto28Feb) 8.30am - 12 noon. 1pm - 4.30pm (Mon - Fri, 1 May - late Oct)

off Peak/Winter season

For further information about walking the Kepler Track during the off Peak/Winter season please contact:

Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre

Department of Conservation

P.O.Box29,TeAnau.

Tel.(03)2497924,Fax:(03)2490257

Email:fiordlandvc@doc.govt.nz

Website: www.doc.govt.nz

Officehours: 8.30am-4.30pm,7days.