Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
and farm blocks. Several gullies have been fenced off from livestock and turned into conser-
vation areas. These pockets of native bush include ancient remnants of beech forest, giant
podocarps such as kahikatea, matai and totara, and a variety of ferns. Don't know your nat-
ive bush? Not to worry - the families have done an impressive job of labelling trees and
plants along the track, and by the end of the tramp you will know the difference between
lancewood and pigeonwood.
Most of the wildlife encountered will be a variety of birds in the forested areas - such as
riflemen, bellbirds, grey warblers and long-tailed cuckoos - and possibly NZ hawks on the
tops. Along the beach, trampers have spotted Hector's and dusky dolphins playing in the
surf, and occasionally seals basking on the sand.
8
Planning
WHEN TO TRAMP
The season for tramping the track is October to April, with the warmest months being
December through March.
WHAT TO BRING
Sun protection (a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen) is important. So is a bathing suit; there
are swimming pools at all three farms, plus the ocean. Many trampers will also use a chilly
bin (cooler) to transport their meat and other perishable food between farms.
MAPS & BROCHURES
Every tramper is given a
Kaikoura Coast Track Guide Booklet,
which covers the natural
highlights of each section of track and contains a map that is more than sufficient. For more
detail, obtain NZTopo50
BU26
(Parnassus) and
BU27
(Oaro).
HUTS & BOOKINGS
Each farm provides accommodation for trampers along the track, with the first night spent at
Ngaroma, the second at Medina, and the third at the Staging Post at Hawkswood Farm. The
cost of the accommodation is included in the track booking fee.
The number of trampers on the track is limited to 10 per day, so bookings are wise if you
have particular dates you want to walk. The cost is $230 per person, which includes trans-
portation of luggage, accommodation and secured parking. Book through
Kaikoura Coast
