Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Queen Charlotte Track open all year?

Yes, but please note the Opening Times for Bikers

What is the best season to walk / bike the Queen Charlotte Track?

Each season has it's benefits:

Spring (September - November)	Flowering native plants and a generally quieter time to walk the track
Summer (December - February)	Long warm days, more people around as summer occurs over NZ's domestic holiday period.
Autumn (March - May)	Warm, tranquil days, cool evenings - idyllic conditions
Winter (June - August)	Cool days (ranging from 10 to maximum 24°C) but on a good day walking conditions are great.

Which is the best way to start the track?

You can start or finish the walk at any of the points along the way although it is suggested to begin the track at Ship Cove.

Are there DOC huts to stay in?

No. There are no DOC huts on the Queen Charlotte Track. There are resorts, homestays and DOC campsites that you can stay at however.

How do I get to Picton?

Refer to Getting to the Track.

Where can I stay in Picton?

There are a large variety of accommodation options available from hotel, motel, B&B, backpacker to holiday park. Please refer to Getting to Picton for accommodation in Picton.

Can I buy last minute items upon arrival in Picton?

Yes.

Do I need to buy all food and provisions before leaving Picton?

No, there are shops along the track to buy any food that you may require.

How difficult is the Queen Charlotte Track? How fit do I have to be?

The track is regarded as a "long" track not a "steep" track. Therefore, distances each day, especially between Camp Bay and Anakiwa can be long and therefore challenging. If you are moderately fit, however, you should be able to achieve this walk.

Do I have to carry a big pack?

No. You only ever have to carry a light day pack because your luggage is transferred each day by water taxi.

Can I walk the track unguided?

Yes, you can walk the track either unguided or with a guide. Both unguided and guided walkers can have their packs carried for them from any of the access points along the track by arrangement with transport operators.

What is the difference between the GUIDED and UNGUIDED walks?

Guided walks can provide another dimension to this walking holiday such as:

• A guide
• All meals
• Upgraded accommodation
• Pre and post tour functions

However, if you prefer to have more independence walking the track an unguided walk may be a better option. See individual operator listings for more information.

Is the track open all year?

No, the section from Ship Cove to Camp Bay is closed from 1 December to 28 February each year.

Can I hire a bike and accessories or do I have to bring my own bike and accessories to bike the Queen Charlotte Track?

Please contact an Activity Operator for details.

Can I hire panniers for my bike?

No, because the water transport companies carry your packs as part of your water transfers, panniers are not required. Also the terrain is too rough for easy carriage of panniers on the bikes.

What is the track surface like to ride?

The track has a clay base which means that in dry conditions it is hard and relatively easy riding, but when it has rained it is extremely slippery and difficult to ride. Caution is recommended.

While some sections of the track are easy to ride, other sections have tree roots, bluffs and rocky areas that make riding more challenging.

Do I have to carry a big pack?

No. It doesn't matter if you are freedom or guided walking, you only ever have to carry a light day pack because your luggage is transferred each day by water taxi.

How much experience do you need to ride the Queen Charlotte Track? How difficult is the track, how fit do I have to be?

The Queen Charlotte Track is regarded as a technical track so to ride the whole track, you need to be a reasonably skilled rider. If you are less skilled or unsure of your abilities, there are easier options such as the section from Waterfall to Anakiwa.

How many days does it take to ride the Queen Charlotte Track?