From the Kepler car park, follow the walk amongst the luscious red beech trees until you arrive at Brod Bay.

The first part of this walk is easy and mostly flat, but after Brod Bay, you’re looking at a steep climb ahead. Depending on the season, you may start to see some snow on the trail as you climb. Once you make it to the top of the climb, you will emerge from the forest into alpine terrain. The hardest part is over. You can now enjoy the views of the Southern Alps and the lake the rest of the way. 

On top of the mountain, you will be following the mostly-flat ridge of Mount Luxmore. Before you make it to Luxmore Hut, you will see signs for Luxmore Cave. Take a detour into this underground fortress of calcite formations. The cave is filled topped to bottom with incredible shapes including stalactites and stalagmites. Once you’ve had your fill, you’re just a short way from the hut, where you can continue to enjoy the views or continue on to the summit of Mt Luxmore. 

Don’t be surprised to see a helicopter coming straight for you: the hut has a landing pad!

Quick Facts about this walk

  • Location: Te Anau, South Island, New Zealand
  • Time needed: 8-10 hour walk
  • Distance: 14.1 km
  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Bikes allowed: No
  • Route: Return
  • Elevation: 885m
  • Wet Feet: Yes, after snow or heavy rain.
  • Toilets: There are toilets at Brod Bay and Luxmore Hut.
  • Dogs: No
  • Mobile Coverage: Unknown
  • Last Updated: April, 2020

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Summary points about this walk

Walk Highlights

The track offers stunning panoramic views of the Southern Alps and Lake Te Anau. You will also be able to descend into Luxmore Cave, filled with calcite walls.

Track Quality

The path is well-paved and wide. There are also footpaths and a wooden bridge on this walk.

Hazards

None

Transport

Te Anau is a stop on InterCity bus’ itinerary. Te Anau is quite small and most places, including the Visitor Centre, are accessible on foot.

Water

There is running water at Luxmore Hut during the walking season. In the off season, there is a water tank outside, but when it is frozen you will have to rely on melted snow.

Driving Instructions

From Te Anau, follow the Manapouri – Te Anau Highway and turn right onto Golf Course Road. Turn right once more into the Kepler car park which is clearly indicated.

Shops & Restaurants Nearby

The closest shops and restaurants are in central Te Anau.

Area & Trail History

The town of Te Anau was established shortly after the Milford Track opened. It is a common place to stop for a few days for tours through Milford Sound and as a stepping stone to the rest of the Fiordland. The walk from the carpark to Luxmore Hut is the start of the Kepler Track. The Kepler track is a 65km track that opened in February 1988.

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