Kepler Track Packing List
The Kepler Track combines forest, exposed alpine sections and rapidly changing Fiordland weather. This checklist is for the managed Great Walk season. Check the current DOC Kepler Track page, alerts, forecast, bookings and facilities immediately before departure.
Separate the Great Walk season from winter
During the Great Walk season, booked huts and campsites have the facilities currently described by DOC. Outside the season, facilities and hazard management are reduced. DOC warns of cold, rain, snow, ice, avalanches, short daylight, removed bridges and difficult river crossings.
This list is not a winter equipment plan. Outside-season travel requires advanced winter navigation, river-crossing, alpine and avalanche competence plus current local advice.
Pack and water protection
- a pack sized for food, clothing, sleep and safety equipment;
- a waterproof pack liner and separate dry protection for insulation;
- water containers appropriate to the current facilities and planned stages;
- a rubbish bag and secure food storage.
Clothing
- waterproof, windproof hooded jacket and waterproof overtrousers;
- wool or synthetic base layers;
- warm midlayer and insulation kept dry;
- warm hat, gloves, sun hat and sunglasses;
- spare dry socks and clothing for the hut.
Cold, wind, rain and snow can occur at any time of year. Carry enough warmth for an unplanned stop and avoid relying on the forecast as a guarantee.
Footwear and movement
Use broken-in footwear with secure fit and traction appropriate to wet forest, rock, steps and alpine sections. Pack foot-care supplies and adjust pace to the least experienced person. The alpine traverse is not recommended by DOC for children under ten.
Sleep, food and hut items
- sleeping bag suitable for the conditions and your cold tolerance;
- all meals and snacks plus emergency food;
- the cooking and eating equipment required by the current hut or campsite information;
- head torch and spare power;
- personal toiletries, medication and first-aid supplies.
Check the current facility description rather than assuming cooking gas, lighting, water treatment or a ranger will be available.
Safety, navigation and communication
- current DOC track information and map;
- navigation tools the group can use in poor visibility;
- registered personal locator beacon or another suitable emergency-communication plan;
- whistle and emergency shelter;
- shared intentions and an overdue action plan with a trusted person.
DOC identifies complex avalanche terrain and notes that risk can extend into summer. Check current track conditions, weather warnings and avalanche information. Turn back or alter the trip before conditions exceed the group's skills.
For current equipment categories, browse hiking packs, rain jackets and sleeping bags.