Partial closure of Heaphy Track spells fewer bookings Heaphy Track bookings have taken a hit following a storm in February that left the Great Walk closed between James Mackay and Heaphy huts after floods destroyed the 150m-long suspension bridge over the Heaphy River.

There are just 300 bookings for the year to June 30, 2023, far fewer than the 2131 bookings for 2021/22.

That’s prompted DOC to remind people that large sections of the track remain open.

“There are options to walk or bike the Heaphy as a multi-day, in-and-out trip from either end,” said Tim Bamford, heritage and visitors director.

Visitors from Golden Bay will encounter beech forest and tussock fields, and takahē around Gouland Downs;  trips from the West Coast take in coastal views and groves of nīkau palms.

Bookings are set to recommence on May 1, 2023, but DOC says it is ‘highly likely’ the date would be brought forward.