What to pack (multiday)
Footwear
- Good sports/hiking shoes. Kayakers must carry walking shoes in case of an emergency
- Shoes for tidal crossings and/or kayaking, fixed at the heel
- Light shoes or slippers to wear at the lodges
- Walking poles are recommended for stability on uphill and downhill sections.
Clothing
Quick-dry and thermal fibres are recommended for walking and kayaking. Avoid cotton as it takes a long time to dry. Layers are the key to comfort:
- Thermal layer close to your skin. In the cooler months (Apr - Oct), bring extra thermal layers and socks
- Quick-dry shorts and t-shirts
- Warm wool or polarfleece layer
- Waterproof jacket with hood (disposable rain coats are for sale at our offices)
- Kayakers need an extra set of hiking clothes in case you get wet
Other essentials
- Re-usable water bottle to be filled at our office and lodges
- Insect repellent, sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses
- Hand sanitiser (please no tissues or hand wipes as they add to litter to the park)
- Phone/Camera with charger and memory card
- Swimwear and beach towel (optional)
- In-house bar takes credit card or Eftpos (no cash)
- Essential personal medication must be carried with you each day
If you choose a self-guided walk option, please bring a cellphone and personal first-aid kit for your safety.
Overnight gear to be packed into the Lodge Luggage Bag that we supply.
- Casual evening clothes and light footwear
- Underwear, including socks and sleepwear
- Personal toiletries
- Flashlight/torch (on rare occasions, our generated electricity can fail)
- Sleep apnoea machines and battery chargers can be run on our generated electricity
Cellphone reception varies depending on your service provider. Click through to WiFi Internet and Cellphone Access for details.
Please do not bring valuable items or travel documents. There is safe storage at our Motueka office.
Click here to download your packing list. (PDF file)
Included in multiday trips
As well as a wonderful holiday experience with skilled, friendly hosts, chefs and boat crew, your trip includes:
- all meals from lunch on your first day to lunch on the last day of your trip. Our innovative wilderness menus are sourced from environmentally responsible providers. Enjoy full cooked and continental breakfasts, picnic lunches and three course dinners
- fresh fruit, hot drinks, water, and a range of snack foods are available throughout the day
- all linen (bedding and towels) at the lodges
- waterproof plastic liners for bags
- 30 litre daypacks are available to borrow
- 40 litre lodge luggage bag (47x35x25cm) is yours to keep. Click here for image and dimensions.
- Free Wifi at our lodges
Recommended Footwear
WE RECOMMEND FOR WALKING:
Comfortable walking shoes or sports sandals. Heavy hiking boots are not necessary on the well-formed coastal track. You can wear them if you prefer.
WE RECOMMEND FOR TIDAL CROSSINGS
Light shoes with fixed heel for walking on shells, rock and sand for short distances. They will get wet. There is time to change into walking shoes after tidal crossing.
NOT RECOMMENDED
Slides, jandals, flip-flops etc.
Do I need walking poles?
Walking poles are recommended for stability on uphill and downhill sections.They assist with balance, and relieve pressure on knee and ankle joints.
Damage caused by recent storms is still under repair, so some short sections are not up to Great Walk standard.