Although it’s frustrating that you missed out, don’t worry. There are some truly wonderful substitutes well worth your scroggin. The facilities might not be not as great, but that’s half the fun! 

Here are a few Great Walk swaps. 

Swap Tūātapere Hump Ridge Track for South Coast or Greenstone–Caples tracks

The Tūātapere Hump Ridge offers coastline, alpine tops and enchanting forests, classic for that part of the island. Keeping it southern, the South Coast Track brings a similar vibe with a noticeable jump in difficulty (and bog depth). For something friendlier, the Greenstone–Caples Track is a solid option. It’s a well-marked trail with towering, glaciated peaks and tantalising waterways that tempt icy dips. A fair trade for the lack of coastal scenery.

Swap Routeburn Track for Rees–Dart Track

Alpine passes? Tick. Towering peaks and hanging valleys? Tick and tick. The Routeburn is the shortest Great Walk, known for flinging you straight into postcard-level scenery. But if you’re after the same grandeur with fewer people and a bit more grit, the Rees–Dart is your track. It’s longer, more rugged, and can be walked in either direction. Although a car shuffle is still required, it’s a much easier one. For the full experience, spend two nights at Dart Hut and use your off-day to explore the Dart Glacier’s terminal face or head up to Cascade Saddle.

Swap Kepler Track for Mataketake Hut loop

What makes the Kepler so revered is its sweeping tops travel. The valley sections are nice but not unique to the area. For something shorter, quieter and more off-grid, the Mataketake Hut loop via Māori Saddle and Mica Mine Route is a worthy alternative. You’ll still walk above the clouds if conditions align, and the views are easily as epic. Starting from SH6 north of Haast, it can be done as a challenging overnighter or a cruisier three day trip with an extra night at Mataketake or Blowfly huts. 

Mataketake Hut, built in 2021 by the Andy Dennis Trust, offers vistas of the Main Divide, classic West Coast sunsets, and the kind of storms that would make Fiordland proud.