Hiking in New Zealand: Your Complete Guide
New Zealand is one of the safest countries in the world to hike, offering over 10,000 kilometres of trails that traverse mountains, lakes, forests, and coastline. From challenging alpine treks to easy day walks, there’s a path for every type of hiker. With 11 official Great Walks, countless regional day hikes, and hidden gems, adventurers can explore the country’s diverse landscapes at their own pace.
The Great Walks of New Zealand
New Zealand is home to 11 official Great Walks, each offering immersive experiences in some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. These tracks range from coastal paths and forest trails to alpine circuits and even river journeys and take between 2–6 days to complete. Here’s a quick guide to each:
Milford Track – Fiordland National Park
Traverse waterfalls, rainforest, and towering peaks to reach the iconic Milford Sound. Well-maintained huts provide overnight shelter along the way.
Length: 53.5 km
Duration: 4 days
Grade: Moderate
Routeburn Track – Fiordland & Mt Aspiring National Parks
A spectacular mix of alpine vistas and lush valleys, connecting Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks.
Length: 32 km
Duration: 2–4 days
Grade: Moderate
Image courtesy of Tourism New Zealand
Kepler Track – Fiordland National Park
A scenic loop with lakes, beech forest, and panoramic mountain views.
Length: 60 km loop
Duration: 3–4 days
Grade: Moderate
Abel Tasman Coast Track – Abel Tasman National Park
Golden beaches, turquoise waters, and coastal forest make this walk a coastal gem.
Length: 60 km
Duration: 3–5 days
Grade: Easy–Moderate
Heaphy Track – Kahurangi National Park
Traverse native forests, tussock lands, and river valleys on one of New Zealand’s longest Great Walks.
Length: 78 km
Duration: 4–6 days
Grade: Moderate
Paparoa Track – Paparoa National Park
Highlights include limestone cliffs, lush rainforest, and Māori heritage storytelling.
Length: 55.7 km
Duration: 3 days
Grade: Moderate
Rakiura Track – Rakiura/Stewart Island National Park
Explore remote beaches, birdlife, and native forest on predator-free Stewart Island.
Length: 32 km loop
Duration: 3 days
Grade: Moderate
Image courtesy of Liz Carlson
Lake Waikaremoana Track – Te Urewera, Eastern North Island
Walk around a pristine glacial lake, with native forest and waterfalls.
Length: 44 km
Duration: 3–4 days
Grade: Moderate
Tongariro Northern Circuit – Tongariro National Park
Pass volcanic craters, emerald lakes, and alpine landscapes in New Zealand’s oldest national park.
Length: 43–45 km loop
Duration: 3–4 days
Grade: Moderate–Challenging
Whanganui Journey – Whanganui National Park
A unique water-based “Great Walk,” paddling through river valleys, native bush, and cultural sites.
Length: 145 km
Duration: 3–5 days
Grade: Moderate
Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track – Fiordland National Park
Stunning coastal and forest scenery on one of the newest additions to the Great Walks network.
Length: 62 km loop
Duration: ~3 days
Grade: Moderate
Image courtesy of Tourism New Zealand
Each Great Walk offers a well-marked, maintained track with huts or campsites along the route. They are perfect for immersing yourself in New Zealand’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.
Multi-Day “Luxury” Hikes
Two extraordinary multi-day hikes offer adventure with comfort, letting hikers enjoy a warm shower and cooked meal each night.
Hollyford Track – Fiordland, South Island
Wind past waterfalls, rivers, and alpine valleys framed by dramatic mountain scenery. Well-maintained trails and huts make it accessible for moderately experienced hikers, with abundant wildlife along the way.
Length: 56 km
Duration: 3–5 days
Grade: Moderate
Image courtesy of Hollyford Wilderness Experience
Queen Charlotte Track – Marlborough Sounds, South Island
Coastal Forest, panoramic waterways, and charming bays define this track. Comfortable lodges and huts provide rest each night. The track can also be explored by bike for a combined nature, wildlife, and village experience.
Length: 71 km
Duration: 3–5 days
Grade: Moderate
Te Araroa Trail
For the most dedicated walkers, the Te Araroa Trail spans 3,000 km from Cape Reinga in the north to Bluff in the south. It combines coastal walks, river crossings, urban sections, and alpine hikes. Completing the trail takes 3–6 months and offers an unparalleled way to experience New Zealand on foot.
Top Day Hikes Across New Zealand
Not everyone has time for a multi-day trek, and New Zealand has countless day hikes offering breathtaking scenery in just a few hours. We have pooled together an impossible list of the top 5 day walks in the North and South Island:
South Island Day Hikes
Image courtesy of Destination Queenstown
Rob Roy Glacier Track – Wanaka
A relatively easy hike through beech forest and alpine meadows to spectacular views of the Rob Roy Glacier and cascading waterfalls. Well-formed tracks make it accessible for most walkers.
Length: 10 km return
Grade: Easy–Moderate
Time: 3–4 hours
Mt Robert Circuit – Nelson Lakes
This alpine circuit offers panoramic lake and mountain views, passing through lush forest and tussock-covered ridges. A rewarding trail for photographers and nature lovers.
Length: 14 km loop
Grade: Moderate
Time: 4–5 hours
Blue Lake Track – Mount Cook (alternative to Hooker Valley)
A short, scenic walk to a pristine alpine lake framed by rugged peaks. Ideal for those looking for a quick and accessible alpine experience.
Length: 6 km return
Grade: Easy
Time: 1.5–2 hours
Ben Lomond Track – Queenstown
A demanding climb rewarded with sweeping panoramic views over Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables. Suitable for fit walkers with alpine experience.
Length: 11 km one-way / 16–20 km return (depending on start point)
Grade: Challenging
Time: 6–8 hours
Lake Marian Track – Fiordland
A serene trail through forest and across swing bridges, opening onto a reflective alpine lake backed by dramatic mountain peaks.
Length: 7.5 km return
Grade: Moderate
Time: 3–4 hours
North Island Day Hikes
Image courtesy of Tourism New Zealand
Te Mata Peak – Hawkes Bay
Gentle trails through farmland and native bush with sweeping coastal and inland views near Hastings. Perfect for sunrise or sunset walks.
Length: 4–5 km loop
Grade: Easy
Time: 1–2 hours
Cathedral Cove Track – Coromandel
A short, scenic walk to the famous limestone arch and turquoise beaches. Ideal for a half-day outing with plenty of photo opportunities.
Length: 4km return
Grade: Easy
Time: 1.5-2 hours
Rangitoto Island Summit – Auckland
A volcanic climb through lava fields and native bush to panoramic views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf.
Length: 5 km return
Grade: Moderate
Time: 2–3 hours
Cape Brett Walkway – Bay of Islands
Follow coastal cliffs to the historic Cape Brett lighthouse with sweeping ocean views. A highlight of Northland’s dramatic coastline.
Length: 16 km one-way (can be shortened by water taxi)
Grade: Moderate
Time: 5–6 hours
Tongariro Alpine Crossing – Tongariro National Park
One of New Zealand’s most iconic day hikes, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing traverses’ volcanic terrain, emerald lakes, and craters. Expect dramatic landscapes, steaming vents, and panoramic views — a full-day adventure for fit walkers.
Length: 19.4 km one-way
Duration: 6–8 hours
Grade: Challenging
Image courtesy of Northland NZ
What to Pack for Hiking in New Zealand
Hiking in New Zealand can take you from lush forests to alpine peaks, so being prepared is essential. Here is a complete packing guide to keep you safe, comfortable, and ready for all conditions.
Clothing & Footwear
- Waterproof and windproof outer layer: A breathable jacket and foldable wet weather pants are essential — the weather can change quickly.
- Layering system: Base layer (thermals), mid-layer (fleece or similar), and quick-drying hiking pants or zip-off trousers.
- Hiking boots: Waterproof, well-broken-in boots with ankle support and good grip.
- Socks: Wool or synthetic hiking socks, plus a spare pair per day. Liner socks can help prevent blisters.
- Hut shoes: Lightweight shoes or flip-flops for comfort in huts.
- Accessories: Warm beanie, gloves (even in summer), and a buff or bandana.
Safety & Navigation
- First-aid kit: Include antiseptic wipes, bandages, blister treatment, and personal medications.
- Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat are crucial — New Zealand’s UV is strong.
- Navigation tools: Map, compass, or GPS device. Consider downloading offline maps.
- Illumination: Headlamp with spare batteries for hands-free light.
- Communication: Whistle for emergencies.
Other Essentials
- Backpack: Daypack for short hikes or a 40–60 L pack for multi-day trips.
- Hydration: At least 2–3 L of water per person, with a filter or purification tablets.
- Insect repellent: Essential for sandfly-prone areas.
- Trekking poles: Optional, but helpful on uneven terrain.
- Food: High-energy snacks or meals for longer hikes.
- Personal documents: Keep your ID or passport in a waterproof bag.
Why Hike in New Zealand?
From alpine glaciers and volcanic peaks to forest trails and coastal paths, New Zealand offers hiking experiences like nowhere else on earth. Trails cater to beginners, families, and experienced adventurers, with options for half-day walks or multi-day treks. Unlike many other hiking destinations, New Zealand is free of dangerous wildlife — there are no wild predators or venomous animals to worry about, making it one of the safest countries in the world to explore on foot. Hiking allows you to slow down, immerse yourself in nature, and connect with some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet.
Ready to Plan Your Hiking Holiday?
Whether you’re chasing panoramic peaks, serene alpine lakes, or coastal wonders, New Zealand’s hiking trails deliver unforgettable experiences. Explore our bespoke hiking itineraries or let us design a personalised adventure that combines the country’s best walks, scenic day hikes, and Great Walks into your perfect journey.