Backroader: Rakiura Track part 1 - Fern Gully to North Arm

The Department of Conservation has nine 'Great Walks' showcasing the best that Aotearoa has to offer. The stunning alpine scenery of the Milford Track and the volcanic landscape of the Tongariro Northern Circuit are world renowned and are drawcards for many overseas visitors; so much so that the tracks are crowded both with trampers and air traffic. If you are wanting a quieter backcountry experience in stunning temperate rainforest then come to Stewart Island with its 36km Rakiura Track.

The Rakiura Track is generally walked over 3 days, staying at DOC huts at Port William and North Arm. Each day's tramping is a comfortable 12km and offers a mix of coastal views, historic sites and pristine bush. With shorter weeks at work, I thought it was nigh time I experienced this 'Great Walk' for myself.

See also: http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/tracks-and-walks/southland/stewart-island-rakiura/rakiura-track/

I chose to do the Rakiura Track clockwise, staying one night at North Arm and bypassing Port William hut this time round. It doesn't matter which direction you go and, as it's a complete loop track, there's no need for transport to/from either end. Winter is an ideal time to walk the track; generally the weather is pretty settled with cooler temperatures for tramping - and the chance to see a kiwi is increased with the longer night length. Mud is a Stewart Island highlight - always check to see if kiwi have walked through recently; the majority of the track is benched gravel with an easy to moderate incline.

This blog covers my tramp from Oban to North Arm Hut; 5 hours of delightful walking in the bush, often with surprise views as another corner was turned. My new Sony waterproof camera was perfect for lightweight carrying and it got a lot of use until it ran out of battery by the log haulers (see Part 2!).