South-west New Zealand, or Te Wahipounamu, is one of the country's three UNESCO world heritage sites and to properly experience it you need to go bush.
There's a track for every level of experience, check with the DOC (Department of Conservation) for detailed information. Whether squelching through dense beech or podocarp rainforest, scrambling across scree slopes above glacier valleys, striding over tussock-clad alpine passes, or gazing at the incredibly clear night sky from your tent, there is a memorable experience waiting for you.
Self-sufficiency is the keyword - take only what you need and bring everything back out. Leave your need for creature comforts behind and embrace nature.
Great tracks include the Rees-Dart (forest/sub alpine), the Hollyford (rainforest) and the Young valley (sub alpine).
www.fourcorners.co.nz/new-zealand/world-heritage/
www.doc.govt.nz/templates/ByRegionLanding.aspx?id=35796
The area of south-west New Zealand includes Westland national park as well as Fiordland and Mt. Aspiring National parks. The tracks mentioned are in the latter two parks.
Send your feedback or queries to been.there@guardian.co.uk
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