Now is the time to embark on New Zealand's Great Walks before price hike

New Zealand's nine Great Walks are set to get a price hike next year, so if you are planning that walking trip the time to go is now.

The government announced plans for a sharp increase from October next year, which will affect camping and huts found on five of its most popular tracks, including Milford, Routeburn, Kepler, Abel Tasman and Tongariro.

"The nine Great Walks are among New Zealand’s most popular visitor attractions, but they run at an $1 million annual loss," conservation minister, Maggie Barry, said in a statement.

"We believe it’s fair that international visitors who experience our Great Walks pay a little more to enjoy our landscape and contribute to protecting our native wildlife."

Luckily for Kiwis, the price will remain the same. Currently huts along the Milford Track cost $70 a night, but in October next year, they will cost visitors $140 a night but stay the same for locals.

The extra money gained from the new initiative will be around $4million per year.

Maggie Barry added: "I think people have been feeling for a very long time that they are getting a bargain."