Milford Track huts sold out in a record three minutes when bookings for the coming Great Walks season opened in May.

DOC said it was looking at improving its booking system and potentially taking inspiration from MIQ, with its virtual lobbies and randomised queues.

“But it doesn’t really change the system. There’s still going to be those that are quick on their fingers,” booking services manager Ross Shearer told the Otago Daily Times.

Camping is not permitted on the Milford Track and DOC advises only fit, experienced and well-equipped trampers attempt the four-day hike outside the Great Walks season, which runs from late October until May.

Milford Track isn’t the only spectacle of nature in high demand, here are three other must-do destinations.

Grand Canyon 

Those wanting to stay in Grand Canyon National Park need quick fingers, too. Lodge bookings for the canyon’s South Rim are released 13 months in advance and can sell out in a month.

The Inca Trail

The trail to Peru’s Machu Picchu has a limit of 500 new walkers a day, so booking at least six months ahead is advised for the popular dry season from May to September.

Mt Everest

On Mt Everest, overcrowding has been linked to several deaths as climbers get stuck in queues to and from the 8849m summit during spring. The record for the most ascents of Everest in one day was set on May 23, 2019 when 354 climbers made it to the top of the world.