From forest to skyline walking the Wilds of Puhi Peaks
Tucked high in the hills above Kaikōura, where native bush climbs toward alpine ridgelines and wide skies, Puhi Peaks offers one of New Zealand’s most unforgettable walking experiences.
Here, you don’t just follow a trail — you journey from forest to skyline, through regenerating bush, rare native ecosystems, and panoramic views stretching from mountain to sea. With guided walks that immerse you in this privately protected land’s raw beauty and biodiversity, Puhi Peaks invites you to explore nature at its wildest and most wondrous.
Two Trails, One Unforgettable Landscape
At the heart of the Kaikōura Wilderness Experience are two guided walks — The Valley of Feathers and The Ridgeline Walk, each with its unique rhythm and beauty.
The Valley of Feathers Walk
If you’re after a walk that’s peaceful, personal, and packed with native beauty — this is it.
The Valley of Feathers Walk starts at the Woolshed, where you’ll be welcomed with a hot drink and a quick chat about the story of Puhi Peaks and why it’s such a special place. From there, you’ll head out on a guided walk through open farmland, native bush, and shady beech forest.
Along the track, you’ll spot native trees like manuka, kanuka, rimu, matai and totara, and if you’re lucky, a few of the birds that call this place home. As you climb up to Totara Saddle, the views open wide, with the mountains on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other.
You’ll stop for a picnic lunch in a quiet spot with a view, before heading slowly back down through regenerating bush. Your guide will point out how the land is healing and growing, especially after the Kaikōura earthquake.
The day wraps up with a relaxed afternoon tea back at the Woolshed — a perfect way to end a day spent walking, learning, and connecting with nature.
Duration: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Includes: Morning tea, guided walk, picnic lunch, and afternoon tea
Group size: Max 6 people per guide
The Ridgeline Walk
For those wanting a bit more challenge, the Ridgeline Walk offers a higher-altitude adventure with even more striking views.
After morning tea at the Woolshed, you’ll head through native forest and follow the trail above Happy Valley Stream. As you go to Skyline Ridge, the terrain shifts and the elevation builds, offering incredible views to the North Island on a clear day. You’ll break for a picnic lunch with the ranges as your backdrop, descend through the bush before returning to base.
It’s a walk for those who want to push a little further — and be deeply rewarded.
Duration: 10:00am – 4:00pm
Includes: Morning tea, guided walk, picnic lunch, and afternoon tea
Fitness level: Moderate to high
Beyond the Tracks
Puhi Peaks isn’t just a walking destination — it’s part of one of New Zealand’s most important conservation stories. Protected by a QEII Covenant, this land is home to rare and endangered species, including the Hutton’s shearwater. The team here is focused on preserving this land and sharing it with others in a way that’s respectful, sustainable, and unforgettable.
With more walking and cycling trails in development for 2025, Puhi Peaks is building something truly special — a chance for people to experience this wild, untouched part of Aotearoa like never before.
Bookings:
Walks run seasonally and spaces are limited. Visit www.kaikourawilderness.co.nz to learn more and plan your trip.
