Plans to upgrade the country's next Great Walk are out for tender with hopes the project remains on track.

More than two years ago, the Hump Ridge Track in Fiordland was announced as the latest Great Walk, and it was originally meant to open later this year.

The Department of Conservation has since confirmed delays with the upgraded track now expected to open in the 2023-2024 walking season.

DoC southern South Island director Aaron Fleming said the tender for the track upgrade work would close early next month.

"This will give us a clear understanding of the cost of undertaking this aspect of the works," he said.

"Other work to deliver the project is tracking well with final approval set for completion in mid- to late March."

The track upgrades were on schedule for the 2023-24 Great Walk season, he said.

"Some of the construction works will be delivered this financial year, however the bulk of the works, specifically the track works, will be completed next summer."

The project looked set to remain within budget pending the closure of the track tender, Fleming said.

"Once the tenders have closed the final project budget will be developed for submission towards final approval."

Republished by Arrangement