Missed out on securing a Great Walks pass? Own the backyard instead.

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Missed out on securing a Great Walks pass? Own the backyard instead.

Trade Me Property reveals the gateway towns where you can swap a Great Walks hut pass for a lifetime of backyard access

Last updated: 13 May 2026

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Missed out on a Great Walks pass? Trade Me Property suggests buying a permanent basecamp in a gateway town for lifetime access to New Zealand's best hikes.

Properties are available near iconic tracks, with listings in key locations including:

- Te Anau (Milford, Kepler, Routeburn)

- Motueka (Abel Tasman)

- Ohakune (Tongariro)

- Stewart Island (Rakiura)

This provides a unique alternative to the annual booking rush, with properties starting from the low $400,000s.

The triple threat gateway, Te Anau

Te Anau, the gateway to the Milford, Kepler, and Routeburn tracks

The big family basecamp

The retreat, with all the creature comforts

The entry-level shack

Pretty as a picture in Te Anau

The coastal escape, Motueka and Riwaka

The golden sands of the Abel Tasman national park

The solid base

The heritage hub

Riwaka, Motueka on the doorstep to the Abel Tasman

The volcanic adventure, Ohakune

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing can see more than 3,000 hikers per day during the peak season

The alpine chalet

The garden paradise

The island sanctuary, Stewart Island/Rakiura, the third motu

Stewart Island, home to the Rakiura Track, the southernmost of the Great Walks tracks

The island icon

14 Kaka Ridge Road, Stewart Island offers commanding views

The coastal seclusion

The new frontier, in Tuatapere

Trampers on boardwalk arriving at Okaka Hut on the newest Great walk, Hump Ridge Track.

The family find

Room for the whole crew in Tuatapere, the entry to the Hump Ridge Track