If you're planning a walking holiday in NZ this story will be of interested to you.
From July 1, the NZ's Department of Conservation (DOC) is increasing the price of all the Great Walks.
“It has been more than four years since prices were reviewed and upkeep costs have risen significantly since then,” said DOC’s director of heritage and visitors, Cat Wilson on the DOC website.
“Great Walk hut and campsite prices will increase by 18% except for Paparoa which will increase by 6%. While Great Walk fees don’t cover the full costs, the revenue raised contributes to maintaining, repairing, and improving the huts, campsites, tracks, and structures and balances the cost burden between users and taxpayers.”
Fees for international visitors remain at a 50% premium to NZ resident fees on most Great Walks.
As well as the price increases, DOC has scrapped the kids-go-free approach. Those aged 5-17 years will be charged 50% of the adult fees.
“Data shows the ‘youth go free’ approach adopted in 2008 did not noticeably increase children and youth participation on the Great Walks.
Opening dates for booking huts, campsites and Great Walks for 2024/25 will be announced in April.