The West Coast is the big winner this year - with its Great Walks expected to bring in huge hiker numbers.

Even without international visitors, DOC's seen a record 36 percent increase in Great Walk bookings since they opened last week.

Heritage and Visitors Director Steve Taylor told Mike Hosking while they're all seeing bookings fill up fast, the West Coast's two trails are the real stand-outs.

"The Heaphy Track is up 48 percent and the new Paparoa Track is up 47 percent on this time last year."

Taylor says it's great to see Kiwis exploring their own backyard - and reconnecting with nature.

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