Each week, we highlight our fave tramping trails in New Zealand for day and multi day hikes across Nelson Tasman (and beyond!)
KIWI SADDLE HUT, KAHURANGI NATIONAL PARK
Insane effort by one of our regs Brad, completing this loop via Kiwi Saddle and John Reid Huts.
Starting at Siberia Campsite, the track follows the Wangapeka River for a cruisey 9km. If you're starting late in the day, left down to Kings Creek Hut is an overnight option. Otherwise hook a right at the track junction and head up to Kiwi Saddle Hut (8.2km), with Mount Patriarch looming to the east.
Clear nights mean chilly temps but jaw dropping starry skies 🤩
The next day is pretty gruelling off-track scrambling along the knife edge of the ridge line. You have an option here to stay the night at John Reid Hut (a tiny 6-bunk with glorious views!), or drop down Chummies Track - a ridiculously steep 7.2km descent with a river crossing at the bottom - and walk out 2km along the road back to your car.
This loop can be done as an intense 2 day mission, or a 3-dayer with a bit more buffer time.
We'd consider this a very demanding trip: you'd want to be confident in your fitness, off-track navigation and technical ability.
