Be a Good Visitor: Embrace the Tiaki Promise on Fiordland's Great Walks

Fiordland is home to some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes, with the Milford, Kepler, and Routeburn Tracks offering unforgettable hiking experiences. However, exploring these Great Walks comes with the responsibility to care for the environment and respect the local culture. The Tiaki Promise is a commitment to protect Aotearoa New Zealand, and as visitors, it’s crucial to uphold these principles while enjoying Fiordland’s wilderness.

Here’s how you can be a good visitor while hiking Fiordland’s Great Walks.

1. Tread Lightly on the Tracks

Fiordland’s natural beauty is delicate, and it’s essential to minimise your impact on these iconic trails:

• Stick to the marked paths to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems.
• Don’t disturb native plants or wildlife; observe animals from a distance.
• Pack in and pack out all rubbish. There are no bins on the tracks, so everything you bring must leave with you.
• Use designated campsites and huts. Wild camping is not permitted on the Great Walks.

By respecting these guidelines, you help ensure that these spectacular trails remain pristine for future hikers.

2. Respect Local Culture

The Fiordland region is rich in Māori heritage, and understanding the cultural significance of the land enhances your experience:

• Learn basic Māori phrases like kia ora (hello) or whānau (family) to engage with locals respectfully.
• Be mindful of wāhi tapu (sacred sites) and avoid disturbing areas with cultural significance.

Appreciating the cultural history of Fiordland deepens your connection to the land, making your adventure even more meaningful.

3. Be a Responsible Tramper

The Milford, Kepler, and Routeburn Tracks take you through remote, rugged landscapes where safety and preparation are crucial:

• Check the weather before starting your hike; conditions in Fiordland can change rapidly, especially in alpine areas.
• Carry all necessary gear, including waterproof clothing, enough food, and a map. Don’t rely solely on mobile phone signals.
• Stick to the DOC (Department of Conservation) advice and hut bookings to avoid overcrowding on the tracks.

Being prepared ensures not only your safety but also the safety of others on the trail.

4. Conserve and Protect

Preserving the beauty of Fiordland means being mindful of your environmental impact, even in small ways:

• Conserve water in huts, as supplies are limited in these remote areas.
• Avoid using soaps or detergents in rivers and streams to protect the delicate ecosystems.
• Choose eco-friendly products and reduce single-use plastics by carrying reusable water bottles and containers.

By following these practices, you’re contributing to the long-term sustainability of Fiordland’s wilderness.

5. Respect the Wildlife

Fiordland is home to a variety of unique and rare species, including kea, kiwi, and whio (blue duck). As you hike:

• Keep a respectful distance from all wildlife. Feeding or approaching animals can disrupt their natural behaviour.
• If you’re lucky enough to encounter a kea, remember not to feed these curious parrots, as human food harms their health.

Embrace the Tiaki Promise on the Trails

Whether you’re embarking on the famous Milford Track, tackling the alpine heights of the Routeburn Track, or soaking up the vistas on the Kepler Track, the Tiaki Promise is your guide to being a respectful and responsible tramper. By committing to care for the land, protect nature, and honour the culture of Fiordland, you’re ensuring that these world-renowned walks remain unspoiled for future generations.

So as you lace up your boots and hit the trails, remember: leave only footprints, take only memories, and become a guardian of New Zealand’s extraordinary wilderness.