Frequently Asked Questions & Trip Information

Frequently Asked Questions & Trip Information

We’ve tried to think of every question you might have in relation to your trip. Please see our comprehensive FAQ’s below, and our blog posts with packing information, trip essentials and more.

  • We welcome children aged 10 and above. While we love having kids join us, you know your child best — consider whether they’ll enjoy and be able to complete the Nuku Walk comfortably. For a more fun and memorable experience, why not team up with other families? It can turn the walk into a shared adventure!  

  • Give us a call — we’re happy to chat and see what we can arrange. We’ll do our best to find a way for everyone to be part of the experience.

  • Your safety is our priority. We’ll equip you with an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) as well as a handheld radio. You'll use the radio to check in with us each evening once your group has arrived at your accommodation. If any issues arise along the way, you can contact us immediately via the radio — we're here to help.  

  • Just get in touch with us well in advance, and we’ll do our very best to accommodate your needs.

  • Wi-Fi is available on the first night at the Red Cottage, so you can check in with loved ones and let them know you've arrived safely. The rest of the accommodation does not have Wi-Fi, though you may find the occasional pockets of cell phone signal—especially in higher spots or near the coast. 

  • Yes! Fresh towels are supplied at each night’s accommodation. On the first night, you’ll receive a fitted sheet and pillowcase in a labelled bag. You'll make up your bed each night and, in the morning, simply strip it and pop the linen back into your bag to be transported to the next stop. This small step helps us reduce our environmental impact.

  • Do keep in mind that west coast beaches can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous. We like to say we're "Piha without the rescue!" So we strongly recommend staying in the shallows and being extra cautious, as surf rescue is a long way off. The good news? Most beaches along the walk have little creeks that, at various times, form beautiful lagoons — these are much safer spots for a refreshing dip.

  • We kindly ask that you don’t. With many walkers coming through each season, the environmental impact would quickly add up — and there are also important health and safety considerations. Nukuhakari Station is home to families who live here year-round, and access to these resources is part of the reward for their remote lifestyle. We appreciate your understanding and respect for the land and those who call it home. Nuku Walk provides you with enough delicious, nourishing meals that you won't need any extras!

  • We’re sorry, but no. While we’re sure your dog is wonderful, not all dogs may be as well-behaved — and some walkers may feel uncomfortable around them. There’s also the risk of dogs bringing in parasites or bugs that could affect the station’s environment. Thanks for understanding and helping us protect this special place.

  • Please keep your bag as compact and lightweight as possible. It will be lifted and transported multiple times over the 3-day journey, and space is limited — your bag may need to fit alongside up to nine others in a single vehicle.

    Sleeping bags can be carried separately, so no need to squeeze them inside your main bag. A minimal approach will make things easier for everyone (including you!).

  • If you encounter an animal in distress or that has passed, please contact us via radio right away. We’ll make sure to assess the situation and take appropriate action. 

  • While a reasonable level of fitness will make the experience more enjoyable, the Nuku Walk is definitely achievable for most people if you take your time. You have the entire day to reach your accommodation, so there’s no rush — just pace yourself and enjoy the journey at your own speed!  If you are concerned please contact us.

  • The terrain varies, so be prepared for uneven farmland, tracks, and bush paths, as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches. It’s a diverse and beautiful landscape, but can be challenging in places — so sturdy footwear and a sense of adventure are key!

  • Welcome to New Zealand, where you can experience all four seasons in a single day! We recommend packing accordingly: bring something warm for the evening, cool layers for daytime, sunscreen and a hat if it's sunny, and a raincoat just in case the weather turns. Be prepared for anything — it’s part of the adventure!

  • No, on the Nuku Walk, you’ll never have to share a room with someone you don’t know. We make sure your privacy and comfort are a priority.

  • Yes, you can! However, as you'll have a room to yourself, there is an additional $400 fee. Please contact us directly to make your booking.

    That said, Nuku Walk is considering holding dates for singles groups if there’s enough interest, and if singles are comfortable sharing a room. Please contact us to register your interest.

  • We understand that plans can change, especially in groups. That’s why we allow name changes up until the day you arrive.

  • Absolutely! We just ask that you limit your drinks to one soft chillybin or shopping bag per person for ease of transportation.

  • We don’t supply snacks to have with your drinks at night so please bring any extras your group would like such as cheese, dips, or other nibbles. 

  • We’re sorry, but we don't allow self-catering. All meals are provided as part of the experience, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable stay for everyone.

  • Yes, on the first night at the Red Cottage, your car will be parked right outside. Once you arrive at Nukuhakari Station, you can store your keys in your main bag. Nukuhakari Station is located at the end of a remote road, and we have security measures in place to ensure your car is safe — both from stock and humans!

  • You’ll encounter a stunning variety of native trees, including Nikau, Rimu, Puriri, Pohutukawa, Rewarewa, Miro, Cabbage Trees, Kahikatea, Matai, Tawa, Kamahi, Hinau, Puketea, Mangeao, Kohekohe, Ponga, Mamuku, Dracophyllum, Manuka, Kanuka, Kaikawaka, Olearia, Kawakawa, Lancewood, and many more!

  • Kereru, Fantail, Pukeko, Quail, Morepork, Shining Cuckoo, Pheasant, Harrier Hawks, Tui, Bellbirds, Whitehead, Dotterel, Oyster Catchers, Fairy Turns, Blackback gulls, Spur winged plovers, Rosellas, NZ falcon.

  • Please note that nights 2 and 3 are off-grid and rely on solar power. While there’s enough energy for lighting, phone charging, and the fridge, we don’t have the capacity to support high-power devices like hair dryers or straighteners. We recommend bringing a more eco-friendly option if you need to style your hair!

  • Yes, the water is safe to drink! However, we’ve filtered it for your peace of mind. There will also be extra water available at various points along the walk to keep you hydrated. 

  • Yes, there will be flushing toilets at the accommodation each night. Along the walk, (marked on the app) you’ll encounter more rustic facilities at various points, providing a true outdoor experience!  

  • Yes, you'll have access to a paper map that you can photograph for easy reference. Additionally, there’s a map available on the Great Hikes app under "Private Walks – Nuku Walk," which you can download while you have Wi-Fi and use even when there’s no reception. Be sure to check it out!

  • On most Great Walks, you carry your own pack, unless you opt for a private company that provides bag transport — like Nuku Walk, where we take care of your luggage, leaving you with just a day pack. The main difference with Nuku Walk is the intimate experience: you’ll share the day and night with a group of no more than 10 people, and in most cases, you’ll only be with your own party. You’ll share rooms with just one other person, or in rare cases, a room with up to four people.  

Zoie Burgess Zoie Burgess

The Benefits of Having Your Bags Carried for You on a 3-Day Walk

If you’re planning a multi-day hike in New Zealand, you might be wondering: Should I carry everything myself or use a bag transfer service? While some hikers enjoy carrying a full pack, having your main bags transported between accommodations allows you to walk freely with just a day pack, making your journey more enjoyable, comfortable, and immersive.

In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of hiking light, what to pack in your day pack vs. main bag, and why a bag transfer service is the perfect way to experience a three-day walk in New Zealand.

Read More