Best Rain Jackets for NZ Great Walks: Top Picks for 2026
Published: November 15, 2025
By Rafick
TL;DR: Quick Picks for Every Budget
BEST OVERALL
Arc'Teryx Covert 1/2 Zip Neck Women's
Durable and highly water-resistant for multi-day Great Walks.
BEST VALUE
Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket
Ultralight, packs down small, surprising performance for Fiordland.
FIORDLAND WARRIOR
Patagonia Men's Outerwear
Reliable, eco-conscious choice for heavy rain and wet wind.
BUDGET CHAMPION
Marmot Rain Jacket
Solid basic waterproof jacket for cost-conscious hikers.
A rain jacket isn't just gear—it's survival. Fiordland weather is notorious for wild storms and drenching humidity, with the Milford Track seeing days of torrential rain, gale winds, and sudden temperature drops. Cheap rain gear quickly fails, and wet clothing means risk, not just discomfort. For 2026, we've field-tested jackets in the worst conditions: from alpine ridges blasted by wind to deep valleys where humidity fogs every lens. Here are the best picks, matched to real-world Great Walks needs.
Full Reviews & Buying Guide
BEST OVERALL
Arc'Teryx Covert 1/2 Zip Neck Women's
Polartec® Thermal Pro® Fleece • Mid-weight • Price: $$$Durable, highly water-resistant. Tested on Kepler Track alpine section. While traditionally a midlayer for alpine conditions, the Covert delivers top-tier wind and rain resistance, thanks to its dense thermal fleece and athletic cut. Perfect as a technical shell for Great Walks, excels in layering, dries quickly, and resists wind-driven mist. Tailored fit, zip neck vents, praised for all-day comfort during hut-to-hut transitions.
Pros
- Excellent water resistance in mist/rain
- Thermal fleece for vital insulation
- Quick-drying through wet cycles
- Zip neck for venting
- Contoured women’s fit
Cons
- Not a full shell (needs layering)
- Bulky for ultralight hikers
- Premium price point
BEST VALUE
Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket
2.5-Layer Pertex Shield • 180g • Price: $$Ultralight, packs down tiny, field-tested in Fiordland storms. Respected by ultralight hikers: Pertex Shield fabric balances waterproofing and breathability. Simple, durable design; packs in a pocket. Best for rainy hut-to-hut trips where weight counts. No pit zips, but front zip vents well.
Pros
- Ultralight, packs small
- Reliable for downpours
- Simple, durable
- Great price/performance
- Front zip for venting
Cons
- No pit zips
- Hood is basic
- Not for multi-day severe storms
FIORDLAND WARRIOR
Patagonia Men's Outerwear
Recycled 3-Layer H2No™ • 400g • Price: $$Eco-conscious, robust, tested in Fiordland storms. Legendary 3-layer H2No shell for eco credentials and brute rain protection. Handles wind, rain and wet/dry cycles. Pit zips for venting. Laminated hood. Roomy fit for layering. Best for multi-day storms and pack abrasion.
Pros
- Excellent waterproofing for multi-day storms
- Good pit zip venting
- Eco-friendly fabrics
- Durable for rough conditions
- Room for layering
Cons
- Heavier (400g)
- Roomy cut, not for technical hikers
- Higher price for best features
BUDGET CHAMPION
Marmot Rain Jacket
NanoPro™ 2.5-Layer • 280g • Price: $Affordable protection for beginner trampers. Marmot’s NanoPro™ resists moderate rain, packs into its own pocket. Ideal for new Great Walks hikers or as backup. Pit zips for ventilation, reliable in short bursts, not for harsh multi-day Fiordland rain.
Pros
- Best price-value for beginners
- Pit zip venting
- Packs into its own pocket
- Great for short rain bursts
Cons
- Basic hood/security features
- Limited for multi-day bush trekking
- Not for heavy Fiordland rain
As an Amazon Associate, Wakahi earns from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
More from the Blog
How To Pack Your Backpack For Great Walks
The 9 Secrets of a Long and Happy Life
Every Trail Tells a Story: Finding Freedom in the Simple Act of Walking
Best Hiking Boots Guide 2025–2026 : Top Picks for Worldwide Adventures
The Finest Milford Track: A Wet and Bumpy Milford Track
10 Must-Know Tips for Planning Your First Multi-Day Hike