Bushwalk Australia

Busy working out gear lists for our NZ trip this December. (Routeburn, Hollyford & Kepler).

We are booked into huts so I happily removed the tent from our overstuffed bags.

Have since been reading about the need to take a tent just in case an accident happens and you are stuck on the track.

Is this an issue?

It's not a major issue. The walks between the huts are usually between 3 and 6 hours for a fit walker.
If you do get in to trouble there will be other people on the track that can help you out.
If you are really worried about it, take a 'hootchie' which is an Army style 1 man tarp, they're about $20 from Army Disposal stores and weigh nothing.

If I was in your position, I wouldn't bother with a tent unless the DOC specifically state that you should be carrying one.

thanks for the advice.

The Routeburn is really well set up, and if you do the walk in the traditional three days there should be no issue at all getting between the huts. The track is very well constructed and the four huts are quite close together. Total walking time over the three days is probably only 12 hours or so for a fit party. Mind you, you;ll need plenty of time to take in the scenery - its uterly magnificent.

The huts are quite amazing too. In summer, they have gas stoves supplied, solar powered lighting in the evening, flushing toilets and running water. Even 10cm thick matresses - what luxury.

Not sure about the Hollyford and Kepler, but expect they are similar.

Wello

Gosh that sounds really good..yah for me I get to go in just over a week!