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Trail · Te Anau, Southland
Kepler Track
One of New Zealand’s Great Walks: a roughly 60 km circuit that starts from Te Anau, climbs the Kepler mountain ridge with views of Lakes Te Anau and Manapouri and returns through forest. Day sections are possible from town.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Kepler Track
The Kepler Track is one of the Great Walks and was created specifically for walkers, in a circuit of about 60 km that starts and ends near Te Anau. The route usually takes three to four days, with nights in Department of Conservation huts.
The track leaves from the Lake Te Anau outlet, crosses beech forest along the shore and climbs to the treeline and the Luxmore hut. From there it follows the Kepler ridge above 1,000 meters, with views over the arms of Lake Te Anau, Lake Manapouri and the Fiordland mountains, then descends the Iris Burn valley to Lake Manapouri and the Waiau River, returning to the start.
Those who do not do the full circuit can walk day sections, such as the demanding return to Luxmore Hut, or the flat lake shore walk to Brod Bay. In the main season, October to April, huts must be reserved; in winter the higher sections carry avalanche risk and require experience.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Three to four days for the circuit; 2 to 8 hours for day sections.
Best time
In the main season, October to April, with huts open and reservations required. On clear days for the ridge views. In winter, only with mountain experience.
How to get there
The start is at the gates of the Lake Te Anau outlet, about 5 km from town, with parking and a walking trail from the town. In season, boats take people to Brod Bay.
Tip
Book huts on the Department of Conservation website as soon as reservations open. On the ridge the weather changes quickly: bring clothing for cold, wind and rain.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Kepler Track
How long does the Kepler Track take?
Three to four days for the circuit of about 60 km. There are also one-day sections starting from Te Anau.
Where does the Kepler Track start?
At the gates of the outlet of Lake Te Anau, about 5 km from town, with pedestrian access along the waterfront.
Do you need to book the Kepler Track?
To sleep in huts and campsites during the season, October to April, yes. Walking one-day sections does not require a booking.