Tramping Around Southland: Day and Multi-Day Walks In Our Region
If you’re looking for things to do in Southland, and up for an adventure, then get tramping!
Southland’s diverse landscape means we have a wide variety of tramping tracks right on our doorstep. Whether you’re keen to head to the mountains, the forest, or the beach, there’s a day or multi-day walk for you.
Many of Southland’s short walks are family-friendly. Mores Scenic Reserve, overlooking Riverton, has multiple short walks, amazing lookout points, and a large picnic area with public toilets. This area is full of history. The Kings Track (20 mins return) follows a bush route used by early settlers, and emerges from the bush to offer panoramic views over Riverton/Aparima and the Southland Plains. The reserve includes wahi tapu (treasured places) for Maori, and visitors are asked to be respectful.
Great Walks in Southland
We’re lucky to boast 4 (soon to be 5) Great Walks in our region. These include the Routeburn, Kepler, and Milford tracks. If you’re after a change from the majestic beauty of Fiordland, then the native forest and sandy beaches of the Rakiura Track on Stewart Island could be for you.
This 32km, intermediate level loop track takes 3 days to complete. The area is filled with glimpses of local history. You can visit the sites of early Maori settlements, and the remains of the saw-milling industry at Maori Beach. And enjoy the song of many of our native birds in the surrounding bush. If you’re lucky you might even spot a Kiwi!
Along the track, you have the option of staying in the two huts or three campsites. You will need to pre-book the huts and campsites through DOC, and these are the only places where camping is permitted. You can find out more about booking here.
Overnight Walks
For something a bit shorter, the Green Lake Track offers a great taste of Fiordland. It is a 6.8km (3 hour) walk from the Saddle on Borland Road. The road to the Saddle is unsealed, steep in places, and often prone to washouts, snow and high winds, so it’s a good idea to check ahead that the road is open.
The track takes you through tussock, past small lakes and up a steep hill before reaching the shores of the lake. This is an advanced tramping track, so you’ll need tramping boots and a moderate to high level of skill. And having a group member who is experienced at navigating in the back country terrain is a must.
At the Lake, the hut has 12 beds, and operates on a first come, first served basis. It’s a good idea to bring a back up plan in case the hut is full. In this area of Fiordland, you’re completely unplugged, so make sure you’re not just relying on your mobile phone for communication.
If you’ve got the time, it’s worth taking a trip up the Mount Burns Track to the tarns. You’ll be greeted with a stunning view across the region. Don’t forget your camera!
Whether you’re looking to get the kids out of the house for the afternoon, or challenge yourself with a longer tramping trip, Southland has something to offer everyone. Make a plan, be prepared, and have an adventure!
If you’re keen to find out more about tramping around
Southland, brush up on bush skills, or book an instructor
for your next adventure, get in touch today!
03 235 7191 // info@adventuresouthland.co.nz