New Zealand’s Great Walks
North Island Gems
1. Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Often hailed as one of the best day walks in the world, this 19.4-kilometre trek takes you through the volcanic heart of Tongariro National Park. You’ll witness emerald lakes, ancient lava flows, and steam vents.
2. Lake Waikaremoana Track
This 46-kilometre journey through Te Urewera offers a serene experience around its namesake lake. The track provides unique opportunities to explore pristine rainforest and enjoy the tranquillity of one of the North Island’s most remote areas.
3. Pouakai Crossing
Located in Egmont National Park, this 19-kilometre track offers stunning views of Mount Taranaki and the famous Pouakai Tarn, known for its reflective properties.
4. Coromandel Coastal Walkway
This 10-kilometre coastal track in the Coromandel Peninsula offers breathtaking ocean views and passes through native bush and farmland.
5. Te Paki Coastal Track
Situated in the Far North, this 48-kilometre track showcases the stunning coastline of Cape Reinga, including giant sand dunes and remote beaches.
6. Rangitoto Summit Track
A short but rewarding 2-hour return walk on Rangitoto Island near Auckland, offering panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
7. Tama Lakes Track
This 17-kilometre return track in Tongariro National Park leads to two beautiful crater lakes with views of Mount Ruapehu.
8. Waitomo Walkway
A 5-kilometre track showcasing the unique limestone landscapes of the Waitomo region, including caves and native forest.
9. Waiheke Island’s Te Ara Hura
A network of walking tracks totalling 100 kilometres, allowing you to explore the beautiful Waiheke Island at your own pace.
10. Whanganui Journey
While technically a river journey, this 145-kilometre canoe or kayak trip through Whanganui National Park is considered one of New Zealand’s Great Walks.
South Island Treasures
1. Milford Track
Often called the “finest walk in the world,” this 53.5-kilometre journey through Fiordland National Park takes you past pristine lakes, towering waterfalls, and ancient rainforests.
2. Routeburn Track
This 32-kilometre track links Mount Aspiring National Park with Fiordland National Park, offering diverse landscapes of alpine meadows, reflective tarns, and dramatic mountain vistas.
3. Abel Tasman Coast Track
This 60-kilometre coastal trail meanders along golden sand beaches and through lush coastal forest in Abel Tasman National Park.
4. Kepler Track
A 60-kilometre circular track near Te Anau, taking hikers through beech forests to ridgelines with panoramic views of Fiordland.
5. Heaphy Track
The longest Great Walk at 78.4 kilometres, this track in Kahurangi National Park offers a variety of landscapes from forested mountains to palm-fringed coastline.
6. Queen Charlotte Track
A 70-kilometre track in the Marlborough Sounds, offering stunning coastal views and native bush.
7. Roy’s Peak Track
This challenging 16-kilometre return track near Wanaka rewards hikers with panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps.
8. Hooker Valley Track
A relatively easy 10-kilometre return walk in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, offering stunning views of New Zealand’s highest peak.
9. Ben Lomond Track
A challenging day hike near Queenstown, offering spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains.
10. Rakiura Track
Located on Stewart Island, this 32-kilometre loop takes you through native forest and along deserted beaches, with a good chance of spotting kiwi birds.
These trails offer a diverse range of experiences, from coastal walks to alpine adventures, showcasing the best of New Zealand’s natural beauty. Remember to always check current conditions, book huts or campsites where necessary, and be well-prepared for your chosen trek.