Te Araroa: South Island
The South Island section of Te Araroa, from Picton to the Mararoa River near Te Anau.
665 miles (1070 km), about 99750 ft of ascent, 62 planned days.
Why we chose it
Beth spent a year abroad in New Zealand while at uni and has wanted to show Will it ever since. She always wanted to get properly into the bush but never got the chance, so this is it.
We’re finishing at the Mararoa River near Te Anau rather than Bluff. We’d rather avoid the thigh-deep mud section, and the last stretch doesn’t appeal as much. Hike your own hike.
Looking forward to
- The backcountry huts
- Beth finally getting into the bush
A bit nervous about
- The weather
- Sandflies
The practical bits
- When: December 2027 to February 2028
- Direction: Southbound: Picton to the Mararoa River near Te Anau
- Where we’ll sleep: Backcountry huts and camping.
- Permits: We’ll buy the Te Araroa trail pass.
- Getting there: Fly to Wellington for a few days of prep, then the ferry to Picton. Afterwards, a slow road trip north to Auckland.
Resupply plan
Our resupply plan for Te Araroa will follow.