Know before you go
Introduction
Find out about what to take, weather conditions and safety considerations for walking the Rakiura Track. Check current conditions or weather warnings before departing on your trip.Stewart Island’s weather is very changeable and difficult to predict. Strong winds, hail and heavy rain can occur at any time of the year. Check the Rakiura National Park weather forecast – NIWA website.
You should come equipped for the very worst weather conditions. Exposure and hypothermia can affect anyone and can kill.
Sections of deep mud
During long periods of rain the track can get so muddy that the mud goes above boot height.
This occurs between Port William Hut to North Arm Hut. The muddy areas can be up to 500 m long and also in smaller sections.
Sturdy footwear and gaiters are recommended as the mud can reach above footwear level. Some people also prefer to use tramping poles along this section.
Safety is your responsibility
Plan properly for your trip and ensure your party has a capable, experienced leader.
Mobile coverage is restricted to the immediate township area, so you may wish to consider carrying a Personal Locator Beacon or Mountain Radio.
Fill in the hut books and include any change of plans.
Keep to the tracks. Off the tracks the valleys are steep-sided and densely bush-clad.
Exposed netting on the track
Be careful where netting is exposed and on wooden steps, these sections may be slippery.