top of page
Search

Everything You Need to Know About Hiking the Paparoa Track Great Walk

Updated: 3 days ago

Embarking on the Paparoa Track Great Walk not once, but twice, has etched unforgettable memories in my soul. The first solo hike in November 2023 allowed me to immerse myself in the rugged beauty of New Zealand's wild West Coast, each step echoing with a sense of solitude and self-discovery. The trail weaved through lush native forests, revealing cascading waterfalls and panoramic vistas that whispered tales of times gone by. The following year, November 2024, saw me retracing my steps with a tramping friend, sharing in the awe-inspiring moments and views. The Paparoa Track Great Walk, a place where solitude and companionship dance in perfect harmony amidst the symphony of nature's allure.

 

Immerse yourself in my solo Paparoa Track adventure here:


The Paparoa Track Great Walk in New Zealand, a trail that holds a poignant significance as a memorial to the miners lost in the tragic Pike River Coal Mine explosion on 19 November 2010, officially opened in March 2020 as New Zealand's 10th Great Walk.

Despite facing rain and wind in 2024, I successfully completed the 56 km trail in November 2024. The track, tested my resilience as I hiked through stunning landscapes and rugged terrain, each step a tribute to the miners whose memory is honored by this remarkable trail.

  

Highlights

  • Follow in the footsteps of the early gold miners on historic tracks and explore mining relics at Garden Gully. 

  • Sit back and bask in the incredible sunsets over the Tasman Sea from Moonlight Tops Hut.

  • Enjoy the stunning views from the Escarpment section.

  • Explore the spectacular Pororari River Gorge with dramatic limestone cliffs, beech forest and glades of subtropical nīkau palms.

 

Track Guide 

Smoke-Ho car park to Ces Clark Hut

DOC time: 4 - 5 hours

My time: 3 hours

Commencing behind a shelter adorned with informative panels and a modern long drop, the trail winds through a tapestry of historic gold mining sites, unveiling the remnants of old hotel sites and the historic Garden Gully Hut. Ascend further to be greeted by the modern amenities and breathtaking views offered at Ces Clark Hut, a sanctuary amidst the rugged beauty of the landscape. A true adventurer's paradise awaits, where each step delves deeper into the rich history and natural splendor of the Paparoa Track.

Ces Clark Hut is a unique blend of history and modern amenities, offering hikers an unforgettable experience. With stunning coastal views stretching before you, this charming hut provides everything you need for a comfortable stay. Equipped with gas cookers for preparing meals, cozy platform bunks for a restful sleep, bike racks, and a picturesque deck complete with a picnic table to enjoy meals al fresco.

 

Ces Clark Hut to Moonlight Tops Hut

DOC time: 3 hours

My time: 2 hours

This next section of the trail unveils itself, offering a glimpse of untamed vistas as you navigate a gradual ascent above Ces Clark Hut. The path unfolds into an undulating ridge, inviting you to explore a side trail that leads to the captivating Croesus Knob, a vantage point that promises breathtaking panoramas (in fine weather and clear conditions). Continuing onwards, the trail guides you to Moonlight Tops Hut, a sanctuary amidst the wild, equipped with modern conveniences such as gas cookers, solar lighting, USB ports, and cozy bunk rooms that offer a restful retreat after a day of exploration. Step outside the hut onto a spacious deck overlooking the stunning landscape of the Paparoa Track Great Walk, complete with comfortable seating, convenient bike racks, and two long drops.


Moonlight Tops Hut to Pororari Hut

DOC time: 5 - 7 hours

My time: 5 hours

Meander up the trail from the serene Moonlight Tops Hut, weaving through the enchanting native bush and rugged exposed terrain, until you reach the stunning Escarpment that unveils breathtaking vistas of the majestic West Coast and the endless expanse of the Tasman Sea. A shelter conveniently awaits halfway between Moonlight Tops Hut and Pororari Hut, providing weary hikers with seating, a cooking bench, and a long drop. The path then descends sharply from the Escarpment, leading you into a serene beech forest before the final ascent to Pororari Hut that mirrors the charm of Moonlight Tops Hut.


Pororari Hut to Punakaiki

DOC time: 4 to 5 hours

My time: 3.5 hours

Leaving behind the final hut on the Paparoa Track, Pororari Hut, the trail meanders through lush bush, offering a serene descent to the rugged Pororai River below. As you descend, Moonlight Tops Hut can be seen on the distant ridge. As you journey along the Pororai River, the track crosses expansive suspension bridges that sway gently, revealing breathtaking views of the tannin stained water below. The historic pack track winds through a canopy of towering trees, as you near the Pororari River Gorge, the steep limestone cliffs rise dramatically, adorned with lush vegetation and the sound of rushing water fills the air.

For mountain bikers, an alternate route beckons, while hikers trace the river’s edge through narrow rock overhangs. The gentle currents rush alongside, inviting exploration.

Finally, you emerge into Punakaiki Village, just across from the stunning Punakaiki Beach Camp and the end of this epic journey.

 

 

Logistics

 

 

My Ultimate Great Walks Gear Guide (personal choices)

Below is my ultimate gear guide video for hiking the Paparoa Track Great Walk:



 

My Ultimate Great Walk Food Guide (for a gluten free diet)

For additional hiking meal ideas, watch these videos:

  • Satay noodles

  • Hiking food




Comments

NZ Hiking Adventures

  • Instagram
  • YouTube

©2020 by NZ Hiking Adventures. Proudly created with Wix.com

bottom of page