Tramper on the North West Circuit
Separated from the South Island by Foveaux Strait, Stewart Island/Rakiura is New Zealand’s third largest island and home to its most southern national park.
The North West Circuit provides for challenging tramping around the island’s northern coast.
Rakeahua Valley and Doughboy Bay on the Southern Circuit Track can be added to the Northern Circuit. Alternatively the separate Southern Circuit Track incorporating these areas can be walked by utilising boat transport on Paterson Inlet.
Plan and prepare for a tramping track.
Find out about the history and natural features of the North West Circuit on Stewart Island/Rakiura.
View a daily track description and walking times for the North West Circuit Track.
Information about hut accommodation and camping on the North West Circuit Track.
Information you need to help you plan and prepare for a safe visit.
Rakiura National Park is located on New Zealand's Stewart Island. The park covers about 157,000 ha and makes up about 85 percent of the island.
The Southern Circuit is regarded as a remote, challenging tramp needing good fitness and route-finding skills. You can get to it via the North West Circuit Track or by boat.
Stewart Island/Rakiura is home to Rakiura National Park. The main settlement in Halfmoon Bay has a visitor centre and various accommodation options. From Halfmoon Bay you can take a range of day walks.
Rakiura circuit tracks brochure (PDF, 702K)
Easy access walks - North Island
Easy access walks - South Island
NZ weather
Rakiura circuit tracks map (PDF, 285K)
New Zealand topographic maps are available from DOC Visitor Centres
Rakiura track updates and weather information
Stop the spread of didymoCheck, Clean, Dry all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.
Safety information
Always contact the nearest visitor centre for the latest information about facilities and conditions.
