What to Bring
To ensure a safe and comfortable experience at Real Native, we recommend packing the following essentials
- Day pack: with lunchbox and drink bottle (minimum 2L)
- Skin protection: sunhat, sunblock, SPF lip balm, and insect repellent (essential for the sandflies at the Puniu)!
- Footwear: sturdy tramping boots or trail shoes with good tread and slip-on shoes for after hours around the lodgings.
- Gators: are highly recommended from December onwards (to keep the native grass seeds from your socks)!!
- Clothing: warm and lightweight weatherproof layers (merino base layers are ideal), plus swimwear for river dips (towels provided)
- Refreshments: bring your own alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks (cans preferred over glass; we’ll chill them for you)
- Other essentials: walking poles, camera or smartphone, charger, binoculars (optional), toiletries, and personal items
- Safety: personal locator beacons are optional — each group will be provided with a Real Native personal locator tab with help/SOS functions to monitor your progress safely
- Extras: multiple pairs of socks! For the native grass seeds and wet days.
Luggage Limit: Please pack light — one medium-sized bag per person (maximum 12kg) due to limited space in our transfer vehicles.
$250 deposit to confirm booking, balance due 6 weeks prior to arrival
Download before
you visit
The official walk map is available to download via the Great Hikes App, under ‘Private Walks’ – use the App Store buttons to download, or Search for ‘Great Hikes’ in your chosen App Store.
Enjoy live offline GPS maps, day-by-day sections, track elevation & more.
Frequently Asked Questions
I can’t get there by the 11am start time, can we start later?
Yes sure! Just let us know your eta in advance – and we will find a way to accommodate you without compromising on the journey. An extended 4×4 tour from the starting point is always an option.
What level of fitness will I need?
A moderate level of walking fitness is recommended. Each day allows plenty of time to complete the trails at your own pace – with more technical sections requiring a bit more agility or balance. Detours and shortcuts are available however to suit a range of abilities, while longer and steeper segments provide a rewarding challenge for those seeking a more challenging experience.
Is the walk suitable for children?
While the walk is suitable for children, the 3-day experience is currently restricted to guests aged 18 and over. If you have a larger group (or get a couple of families together), you may be able to book the whole arrival date out – in which case children 10 years and over with good physical ability will enjoy the trails. In this case, please get in touch before booking to ensure we can deliver the family friendly experience required.
Are there any toilets on the track?
Yes, we have a number of comfort-stops located enroute for your convenience.
Is there Wi-Fi or cell phone coverage?
We have a few spots of Spark coverage around the farm, and there is unlimited wifi access at both lodgings.
How many people can I book for?
We can host up to 10 people per booking. The accommodation sleeps 10 comfortably in single and/or a limited number of King beds.
My group is smaller than four people, can I still book?
Yes, we take bookings for two people online and via email for solo walkers.
If we don’t have any other walkers booked on the same day to bring the numbers over four we may discuss changing your dates.
What are the bedroom configurations?
Both accommodation sites are set up with 5 individual sleeping chalets, with 4 at each set up as either twin singles (x2 single beds), or King Suites, with one larger chalet at each site furnished to accommodate up 3/4 people = 12 in total.
Do we need to share the lodgings with others?
Yes, unless your group has 8 or more people. However, each group will have their own private sleeping chalets — you won’t be sharing rooms with people outside your group. Living and dining areas are communal, offering a relaxed and social atmosphere. If you book 8 or more spots on a empty date, we will book out the rest of the spots so no further bookings can be made, other than additions to your own group.
Will I need to share a bathroom?
Both accommodation’s have three separate bathrooms each which are more likely to be conveniently accessed by the 1 or 2 cabins located close by – rather than the whole group. These are not exclusive ensuites, but are discreetly located for preferential use.
Can I book out an entire 3-Day experience exclusively.
To secure the accommodation for your own party, you may do this by booking for a minimum of 8 people, regardless of how many guests you intend to bring (you may bring less than this but pay the equivalent fee for 8 people, and you must register all and pay the associated fee if the group is more than 8). Please contact us via email if you intend to use the booking exclusively.
Can I book as part of a group, but have my own room?
Yes, if booking spaces allow, but please inquire by email for confirmation of space. Cabins will be allocated in booking pairs or couples by default and will not be allocated until the week of your arrival.
Why can’t I book as a solo walker online?
We book solo walkers via email so that we can check the other bookings and ensure you arrive on a day with multiple other bookings to enable a mix of other smaller friendly groups and and so you can have your own room.
The people in my group have changed since I booked. Can I make name changes?
Yes, absolutely. Right up until the night prior to arrival.
How many bags can I bring?
We ask that you bring one medium size bag per person (not exceeding 18kg), and one chilly bag per couple/pair.
Do you cater for dietary requirements?
Yes, we cater for a range of dietary needs including gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian, vegan, and nut free.
While we take great care, we cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment, so please contact us directly if cross-contamination is a concern. For dietary needs outside those listed (such as no beef or pork), please reach out to us — if we can cater for you, we will.
Can I bring my own snacks/food?
We pride ourselves on providing a plentiful selection wholesome food for the duration of your stay, however you’re welcome to bring along any extra snacks or personal favourites you can’t do without. Refrigeration space is available at both lodges for any items that need to be kept cold.
Can we bring our own drinks, or can we buy drinks at Real Native?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring a small bag of drinks, which we’ll keep chilled for you at the accommodation so they’re ready when you return from your walk. You’re also welcome to bring extra snacks. Please note that there are no drinks available for purchase at Real Native.
Is the water safe to drink at the accommodation?
Yes. All water at the accommodation is naturally of drinking quality but is also passed through an Infrared filter as a precaution.
Do you offer a self-catering option?
No, we do not offer a self-catering option at this stage.
Can non-walkers be transported between the accommodation venues?
Yes, absolutely. We’re happy to transport non-walkers or anyone who chooses to sit out a day’s walk, allowing them to relax and make the most of the peaceful lodgings and beautiful surroundings instead.
What are your cancellation policies?
We understand plans can change. We offer a full refund minus $100 administration fee for cancellations made more than 60 days prior to arrival date.
15 – 59 days before arrival: a full refund less deposit ($250)
0 -14 days: no refund will be given
All cancellation must made in writing to info@realnative.co.nz
What is the climate like at Real Native?
Real Native is renown for its fresh air, and cool crisp evenings (especially in Autumn). Thanks to its proximity to towering native forest park, night temperatures tend to be a degree or two lower than the wider Waikato region. We recommend packing light, breathable layers along with warm clothing like merino to ensure ultimate comfort throughout your stay.
Is there secure parking for my car?
Yes, vehicles will be parked securely on private property.
Are there hairdryers available in the accommodation?
No, our accommodations are run on environmentally friendly off-grid networks, therefore we need to limit the use of high consumption appliances.
What time should we book flights home?
The final day’s walk takes around 5 hours, with most guests returning to the exit shed by early to mid-afternoon. We’re approximately 50 minutes from Hamilton and 2.5 hours from Auckland Airport. If you’re flying from Auckland, we recommend booking flights no earlier than 5:00pm to allow for a relaxed departure.
Am I allowed to bring my dog?
Unfortunately, we don’t allow visiting dogs at Real Native. Piquet Hill is already home to many resident working dogs, and for their safety and comfort (and yours), we keep the experience dog-free.
