Routeburn Track

Accommodation
Traversing the main divide of the South Island, the Routeburn Track is in the heart of some of New Zealand's most isolated and rugged back country. But that doesn't mean you can't enjoy all the comforts of home at the same time. Our lodges have been purposely designed and built, with everything right down to the last nail flown in by helicopter! The result is sheer indulgence in the last place you would expect it.

All lodges have drying rooms, flush toilets and hot showers complete with soap, shampoo and conditioner. The lodge kitchen treats you with a three course dinner and cooked breakfast, we are fully self sufficient and environmentally friendly with our energy needs being supplied by gas.

Accommodation is in bedrooms with bunk beds sleeping 4 to 6 people per room.

Food and Refreshment
After your exhilarating day outside on the Routeburn Track you will have worked up an appetite. All our lodges are fully equipped and our guides are there to make sure your time inside the lodge is as memorable as your time outside.

Enjoy a snack and cold drink when you arrive at the lodge. A three course dinner follows: hearty soup; a traditional New Zealand main; fresh garden salad or vegetables and no Kiwi meal would be complete without 'pudding' (dessert), and tea or coffee. A selection of wine, beer and soft drinks is available for purchase.

A hot cuppa is available for early risers and breakfast offers a selection from fruit, cereal and toast to a full cooked breakfast of bacon and eggs. Just what you need to send you on your way for another day in the great outdoors.

Your guides will lay out everything for you to make your own picnic lunch: a delicious sandwich and your choice of fruit and energy snacks to keep you going through the day. Lunch is on route but we do have hot drinks ready for you at all our lunch stops.

For those of you with any special dietary requests or requirements, let us know at the time of booking and we will be more than happy to cater to your needs.

Packages
The Routeburn Track is open from November to late April each year.

2009/2010 season (November 2009 - April 2010)

If you would like more information on the Routeburn Track just fill out our enquiry form or send us an email. Full itineraries and scheduled departure dates are available on request.

Frequently asked questions on walking the Routeburn Track:

Will I be fit enough?
To enjoy your trek you need to be able to carry a medium sized backpack for 4-8 hours over 10-21km of mountain track each day. To maximise your enjoyment we encourage you to set your own pace whilst walking the track, there is no need to keep up with the fastest walkers. There is always a guide at the back of the party. The track surface varies from smooth, well-formed paths to rough terrain broken up by rocks and tree roots and we recommend that you wear hiking boots, which provide firm ankle support. If you are not a regular walker, we suggest you begin a daily walk regime 6-8 weeks before your departure. Some practice carrying a pack and hill/staircase walking during this time will make you even better prepared for your walk.

What weather should I expect on the month I am walking?
The unpredictable nature of the weather in this region means that snow, high winds and rain can occur at any time of the year. It is therefore very important to be prepared for the worst weather conditions, and carry the appropriate clothing at all times. Generally January and February are warmer, not necessarily dryer. In November and December the mountain lilies are just coming out and there is still snow on the surrounding mountains. If you are a keen photographer this would be the time to walk. The month of March is more settled weather wise: fresh mornings, sunny days, cooler nights and the days are getting shorter. Due to the nature of Fiordland we cannot predict any forecast.How heavy is the pack?
It's likely to be 5-7 kg (10-14lbs) full.

Do I have to carry my pack or do you transport it?
You carry your own pack from lodge to lodge. Unfortunately we do not offer a service for transporting your luggage.

What clothing do I need to bring?
For walking: boots, polypropylene underwear (top and bottom), fleece or merino hat, fleece jacket, gloves, shorts, walking socks, t-shirt for fine days. For evenings: shirt, trousers, underwear, sandals or light shoes, night wear.

Can I wash my clothes?
Lodges have hand washing facilities with soap powder and drying rooms. Being able to wash and dry clothing helps keep the pack weight down.

Do I have to bring all my clothing with me?
We will lend you a raincoat. If you do not wish to bring all your clothing or do not have a particular item, we have a very reasonably priced shop where items can be purchased prior to your departure from Queenstown.

Where should I leave my excess baggage while I'm walking?
Your hotel will store your luggage for you.

What time do I arrive back in Queenstown?
We arrive at approximately 4pm. This arrival time may connect with some flights from Queenstown.

How bad are the sandflies?
We recommend that you wear insect repellent each day. They are notably worse on the Milford Track. Insect repellent can be purchased from our retail shop.

Where can I park my vehicle?
Generally the hotels/motels where you are staying will store your vehicle while you are walking, if you are staying on your return. It would however pay to confirm this with your accommodation.

Is there alcohol on the track?
New Zealand Beer and wine is available for purchase at the lodges. This is paid for at the end of your walk.

I am vegetarian. Is this a problem?
Vegetarian meals can be provided on all tracks. We will endeavour to cater for your dietary requirements, however please remember we operate in an extremely isolated and challenging environment.How many people share the bunkrooms?
Bunkrooms sleep 4 - 6 people with shared bathroom facilities. Private rooms are available on the Milford Track with either a queen-sized bed or twin beds and their own bathrooms. Please request these as they sell very quickly.

I will be travelling by myself, is that a problem?
No problem. It is a great opportunity to walk with like-minded individuals from around the world.

Are there toilets on the tracks?
All of our lodges have flush toilets. There are also toilets (some flush, some Kiwi long drop style!) at all our lunch shelters and huts.