PAPAROA TRACK (Great Walk): A 3-Day Alpine and Rainforest Adventure

## Paparoa Track: A 3-Day Alpine and Rainforest Adventure – 55 km

Dates: February 5–7, 2026
Location: Paparoa National Park, West Coast, New Zealand
Difficulty: Intermediate
Accommodation: DOC Huts – Bookings now open

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### Trip Overview

Join us on the breathtaking Paparoa Track, New Zealand’s first Great Walk designed for both hikers and mountain bikers. This 55 km journey takes us through spectacular alpine ridges, lush rainforest, and dramatic limestone gorges. Expect incredible views, unique rock formations, and diverse flora and fauna.

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### Itinerary

Wednesday, February 4, 2026

• Fly from Auckland to Hokitika (or via Christchurch and train to Greymouth).
• Shuttle from Greymouth to Blackball.
• Overnight stay in Greymouth or Blackball (I will organise and confirm costs).

Day 1 – Thursday, February 5, 2026: Smoke-ho Car Park → Ces Clark Hut (20 km)

• Start from Smoke-ho car park near Blackball.
• Gradual ascent through lush beech forest, stunning alpine views.
• Overnight at Ces Clark Hut (16 bunks).

Day 2 – Friday, February 6, 2026: Ces Clark Hut → Moonlight Tops Hut (9.7 km)

• Hike along the Paparoa Range ridgeline.
• Striking limestone karst formations, sweeping views.
• Overnight at Moonlight Tops Hut (20 bunks).

Day 3 – Saturday, February 7, 2026: Moonlight Tops Hut → Pororari Hut → Punakaiki (26 km)

• Continue along the range, descend into lush rainforest.
• Pass the Pororari River Gorge and continue to Punakaiki.

Sunday, February 8, 2026

• Shuttle from Punakaiki to Greymouth.
• Flights: Hokitika to Auckland or Nelson (for those continuing to Abel Tasman).

Accommodation & Logistics

DOC Huts: Ces Clark & Moonlight Tops (Must be booked in advance). I will let you know when bookings will be open ) normally end June/early July 2025.

Greymouth/Blackball/Punanaiki: Hotels/motels available for the night before the start and for the 3rd night. I will book and will let you know how much you will need to contribute.

Estimated Costs

✈️ Flights: $300–$450 (Auckland–Hokitika RT)
🚍 Shuttles: $30–$50 per transfer
🏕️ DOC Huts: $44 per night per person

🎒 Gear List & Notes: Standard Great Walk packing list.

Essentials:

Backpack with rain cover.
Sleeping bag (suitable for alpine conditions).
Waterproof hiking boots.
Waterproof jacket and pants.
Layered clothing (prepare for variable weather).
Food and snacks for 3 days.
Water bottle (water is available at huts).
Headlamp and batteries.
Hat, gloves, and sunscreen.
Personal hygiene items (toilet paper, biodegradable soap).
First aid kit.

Optional:

Hiking poles.
Insect repellent.
Camera for capturing the stunning landscapes.

IMPORTANT NOTES

Fitness Level: Moderate to high. Participants should be prepared for steep climbs and long hiking days.

Bookings: Hut bookings are essential and should be made as soon as possible. I will let you know on what date bookings will open for the 2025/2026 season.

Leave No Trace: Carry out all rubbish and respect wildlife.

Safety: I will carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) and a GPS device for group safety. Your safety will remain your responsibility.

REGISTRATION

Early registration is essential to secure your spot. Priority will be given to those I know well, who have done multi-day hikes with us, and/or have attended training sessions with us.

CONTRIBUTION
A donation will be requested to cover Meetup expenses and shared equipment. The amount TBC.