Karamea offers a variety of long and short walks.
Below you will find information about some of our longer routes.
You can also visit pages with information about Short Walks for all ages and fitness levels, plus The Fenian, Oparara Basin Walks and famous Heaphy Track. Department of Conservation publishes helpful brochures on Walks in the Karamea Area, and Walks in the Westport Area
Wangapeka Track (4 days, 3 nights)
The Wangapeka Track traverses the magnificent Kahurangi National Park from east to west, and is a 3 – 5 day tramp covering 52 km. Entry to the start of the track is from either the Little Wanganui settlement (12 km) or Tapawera (30 km). It passes through steep mountainous country 1701 metres above sea level. Crossing two saddles of over 1000m, it travels through the beautiful beechforested valleys of the Wangapeka, Karamea, Taipo and Little Wanganui Rivers, linking up with the Karamea–Leslie Track, another back country experience, near the Taipo. The western end of the track now has route track status.
For a variety of transport options to both ends of the Wangapeka go to the Track Transport page.
Karamea-Leslie Track (6-9 days)
A premier semi-wilderness experience, situated in the middle of the Kahurangi National Park. A 3 – 4 day link track through the earthquake-torn Karamea Valley between Flora Carpark on Mt Arthur (36 kms from Motueka), to the Wangapeka Track Saddle. Many streams unbridged and flood prone. Strong footwear, back country experience and high level of fitness essential. Back country hut tickets or an Annual Pass needed for both Wangapeka and Karamea–Leslie Tracks.
For a variety of transport options to both ends of the Karamea-Leslie go to the Track Transport page.
Mount Stormy Track (6-8 hours return)
Access to this track is via the Arapito Rd, approx. 6km up the Karamea Valley. Please check in at the Karamea Information Centre to obtain permission to pass through private property. This is a steep winding track with a height of 1084m, offering magnificent views of Karamea and the river flats, and the backcountry beyond Mt Stormy. A very challenging climb requiring a high level of fitness.