Southland's Hump Ridge designated as New Zealand's 11th great walk

The Department of Conservation (DOC) has advised that Southland's Hump Ridge track near Tuatapere has been designated as New Zealand’s 11th great walk.

The Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track - a three-day looping track in Fiordland National Park - is only the second added to the country's list in 30 years and the first to be run entirely by its community.

Upgraded to Great Walk status as a result of several million dollars and years of work, the trail weaves through diverse landscapes, including, beaches and seascapes, native forest and an alpine section. It also provides opportunities to spot Hector dolphins and see the southern lights - the Aurora Australis.

Speaking on the upgraded status, New Zealand Conservation Minister, Tama Potaka stated “the 60km upgraded track provides the opportunity to do one of New Zealand's world-class multi-day walks, and will bring conservation, recreation, and economic benefits to the region."

According to DOC, Great Walks are "premier tracks that pass through diverse and spectacular scenery".

Speaking to media last week, DOC Southern South Island Director, Aaron Fleming said the classification brings the track to a new standard consistent with other Great Walks in New Zealand, which is a "big deal".

On how the track was selected to become a great walk, Fleming advised "in 2019 there was a process to select the next great walk and the Hump Ridge track was lucky enough to get to the top.

"We've had a few things that have happened since then, such as Covid, which has slowed down a bit of progress. We would have liked to have had it open earlier than today, but it's fantastic to be at this point and especially fantastic for the Tuatapere community who have been a big part of this track back when it was first developed in 2001.

"The track itself is just incredible. I've walked it myself and it just offers so much, because you've got the seascapes, the alpine environment, the beautiful vistas, the natural native wonderland. You've got Hector's dolphins if you're really lucky, you might spot an aurora if you're really lucky.

"There's cultural heritage, there's the sawmilling history through there, there's beautiful viaducts that you get to see and walk across. It just offers so much which is why it really does deserve this great walk badge."

Revenue for use of New Zealand’s Great Walks has risen by 35% this season, nearing $10 million.

This year DOC combined the booking systems for Great Walks, and other huts, campsites and lodges, to make booking more straightforward for users.

This means people only need a single account to book the Great Walks and all other accommodation.

Images: The Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track. Credit: DOC.