Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
WHEN TO TRAMP
The season for the Milford is late October to late April. Outside this period there is no
scheduled transport on or off the track and it is a winter crossing that should only be attemp-
ted by experienced trampers. New Zealanders, inclined to kvetch about how busy and ex-
pensive it is, commonly embark on the Milford Track just before or just after the Great
Walks season when both prices and number of trampers drop.
WHAT TO BRING
Pack insect repellent. You will encounter sandflies along most of the trail; depending on the
time of year and weather conditions they will range from mildly bothersome to horrible. At
times they can be so thick it is hard to stop for a scenic view.
The huts have gas cookers, but some trampers still take their own stoves so they can en-
joy hot soup for lunch and not wait in the evening until a stove is available. You will also
need your own cooker in the off-season, when the gas cookers are removed.
MAPS & BROCHURES
The track is covered by NewTopo map Milford Track 1:55,000, and 1:70,000 Parkmap
335-01 (Milford Track).
HUTS & BOOKINGS
The Milford Track is a Great Walk and between late October and mid-April you'll need a
Great Walk pass ($162) to cover your three nights in the huts - Clinton, Mintaro and Dump-
ling. Each has gas cookers, cold running water and heating in the main kitchen/dining hut,
plus communal bunk rooms with mattresses. Ablution blocks have flush toilets and wash-
basins, although in the off-season facilities are reduced to a long drop and tap only. In sea-
son, a DOC ranger is resident at each hut and is able to pass on information about the envir-
onment and weather, or help you should an emergency arise.
Hut passes must be obtained in advance. Book early! You must begin the track on the day
for which your booking is made, and you must walk the track in the prescribed four days.
Bookings can be made beginning 1 July for the following season.
For further information and bookings, contact Great Walks Bookings ( 0800 694 732;
www.greatwalks.co.nz ) or visit any DOC visitor centre. If you are alone or in a pair, and can
wait a few days, there is a slight possibility of spaces becoming available due to cancella-
tions. Check for cancellations at www.doc.govt.nz or any major DOC office.
Search WWH ::




Custom Search