A popular West Coast walking track looks to be out of action for several months

Last week's torrential rain has severely damaged a parts of the Heaphy Track - and it's closed to the public.

Department of Conservation rangers have found three bridges are damaged or destroyed between the Heaphy and James Mackay Huts.

Buller Operations Manager Suvi Van Smit says they know this is disappointing news for trampers and mountain bikers planning to do the track soon.

She says it's too early to say how long it will take to fix the bridges and other damage.