The Ultimate Guide to New Zealand’s Best Walks: 15 Stunning Trails to Explore

 
New Zealand, often referred to as the “land of the long white cloud,” is a hiker’s paradise. From dramatic alpine peaks to lush coastal trails, this country offers some of the most awe-inspiring walks in the world.

Whether you’re a seasoned trekker looking for a challenging multi-day adventure or a casual walker seeking breathtaking views, New Zealand’s diverse landscapes have something for everyone.

In this guide, we’ll take you through 15 of the best walks in New Zealand, highlighting what makes each one special, who it’s best suited for, and why they deserve a spot on your bucket list. Let’s lace up those boots and hit the trails!
 

 

15 of the Best Walks in New Zealand

 

1. Tongariro Alpine Crossing

• Location: Tongariro National Park, North Island
• Highlights: Vibrant Emerald Lakes, steaming vents, and the iconic Red Crater make this volcanic wonderland unforgettable. For The Lord of the Rings fans, Mount Ngauruhoe doubles as Mount Doom!
• Best for: Experienced hikers who crave dramatic alpine scenery and a unique volcanic landscape.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is often hailed as New Zealand’s best day hike. The 19.4 km trek takes you through a Mars-like landscape dotted with surreal geological features.

Be prepared for steep climbs and rapid weather changes, but the epic views make every step worthwhile.

 

 

2. Milford Track

• Location: Fiordland National Park, South Island
• Highlights: Sutherland Falls, serene glacial valleys, and mossy rainforests.
• Best for: Multi-day hikers seeking a world-famous adventure in Fiordland.

Known as the “finest walk in the world,” the Milford Track is a 4-day journey through the heart of Fiordland National Park.

From dramatic mountain passes to the thundering Sutherland Falls, this Great Walk showcases New Zealand’s untamed beauty.

 

 

3. Routeburn Track

• Location: Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks, South Island
• Highlights: Key Summit’s panoramic views, turquoise alpine lakes, and cascading waterfalls.
• Best for: Adventurous hikers looking for a mix of alpine and forest scenery.

The Routeburn Track offers a 2-3 day trek through stunning landscapes. Marvel at views of Mount Aspiring National Park’s rugged peaks while hiking along ridges and through lush beech forests. It’s a true alpine masterpiece.

 

 

4. Abel Tasman Coast Track

• Location: Abel Tasman National Park, South Island
• Highlights: Golden sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and native bush.
• Best for: Coastal walkers who enjoy a mix of forest and seaside trails.

If you love sun, sand, and sea, the Abel Tasman Coast Track is perfect for you. This 60 km trail can be completed in 3-5 days and offers opportunities for kayaking, swimming, and spotting seals along the way.

 

 

5. Franz Josef Glacier Valley Walk

• Location: West Coast, South Island
• Highlights: Up-close glacier views, waterfalls, and lush green valleys.
• Best for: Families and travelers seeking a shorter, scenic walk.

This easy, family-friendly hike leads you through a stunning valley to views of the Franz Josef Glacier. Though the glacier has receded over the years, the walk remains an awe-inspiring experience for visitors.

 

 

6. Hooker Valley Track

• Location: Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, South Island
• Highlights: Swing bridges, views of Mount Cook (New Zealand’s tallest peak), and glacier-fed lakes.
• Best for: Easy walkers looking for breathtaking mountain and glacial scenery.

The Hooker Valley Track is a must-visit for those staying near Mount Cook Village. This 10 km return walk is relatively flat, making it accessible to most fitness levels. Don’t miss the photo-worthy views of Mount Cook reflected in the glacial lake.

 

 

7. Kepler Track

• Location: Fiordland National Park, South Island
• Highlights: Lake Te Anau, tussock-covered ridges, and mossy forests.
• Best for: Fit hikers wanting a challenging multi-day loop with diverse terrain.

The Kepler Track is a 60 km circuit offering everything from alpine ridges to serene lakeside paths. You can complete this Great Walk in 3-4 days, and the ridgeline sections provide some of the best views in Fiordland.

 

 

8. Hollyford Track

• Location: Fiordland National Park, South Island
• Highlights: Towering peaks, pristine rivers, and coastal views at Martins Bay.
• Best for: Nature lovers seeking a less strenuous multi-day hike.

The Hollyford Track takes you through diverse ecosystems, from dense rainforests to coastal sand dunes. It’s perfect for those looking to connect with New Zealand’s raw beauty without tackling steep climbs.

 

 

9. Lake Waikaremoana Track

• Location: Te Urewera, North Island
• Highlights: Native forest, serene lake views, and abundant birdlife.
• Best for: Multi-day hikers looking for a peaceful escape into untouched nature.

This 46 km Great Walk takes you around Lake Waikaremoana. The journey is as much about the tranquility as it is about the views. Birdwatchers will love spotting native species like the tui and the endangered whio.

 

 

10. Mount Taranaki Summit Track

• Location: Egmont National Park, North Island
• Highlights: Volcanic summit with panoramic views of the North Island.
• Best for: Experienced hikers seeking a physically demanding climb.

Climbing Mount Taranaki is no easy feat, but the reward is a stunning 360-degree view from the summit. Be prepared for steep, rocky terrain and unpredictable weather.

 

 

11. The Pinnacles Track

• Location: Coromandel Peninsula, North Island
• Highlights: Dramatic pinnacles, kauri forests, and sunrise views from the summit.
• Best for: Weekend adventurers who enjoy overnight hikes with rewarding vistas.

This 2-day hike is famous for its rocky pinnacles and sweeping views of the Coromandel Peninsula. Many hikers opt to stay at the Pinnacles Hut overnight to catch the sunrise.

 

 

12. Queen Charlotte Track

• Location: Marlborough Sounds, South Island
• Highlights: Coastal vistas, secluded bays, and native bush.
• Best for: A mix of walkers and bikers seeking a picturesque multi-day trek.

Stretching 72 km, the Queen Charlotte Track offers a mix of forests and coastal views. This walk is unique in that it’s supported by water taxis, allowing you to walk with just a day pack.

 

 

13. Roy’s Peak Track

• Location: Wanaka, South Island
• Highlights: Iconic views of Lake Wanaka and surrounding mountains.
• Best for: Photographers and fitness enthusiasts.

The steep climb to Roy’s Peak is worth it for the panoramic views of Wanaka’s stunning landscape. It’s a popular spot for sunrise photography, so consider an early start.

 

 

14. Cape Kidnappers Walk

• Location: Hawke’s Bay, North Island
• Highlights: Gannet colonies, towering cliffs, and rugged coastal scenery.
• Best for: Wildlife lovers and coastal walkers.

This walk is best done at low tide to reach the gannet colony at the end of the Cape. The dramatic cliffs and abundant birdlife make it a memorable hike.

 

 

15. Catlins Coastal Walks (Various)

• Location: The Catlins, South Island
• Highlights: Nugget Point Lighthouse, Purakaunui Falls, and rugged coastlines.
• Best for: Short, diverse walks in a wild and remote setting.

The Catlins region offers multiple short walks that showcase its natural beauty. From waterfalls to windswept beaches, these trails are perfect for exploring the area’s untouched charm.

 

 

New Zealand’s trails are as diverse as its landscapes, offering everything from coastal strolls to alpine .

Whether you’re exploring the volcanic wonders of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or marveling at the pristine beaches of Abel Tasman, each walk promises an unforgettable experience.

With so many incredible options to choose from, there’s no better time to plan your next hiking adventure in Aotearoa.

So grab your boots, pack your sense of adventure, and prepare to be wowed by New Zealand’s natural wonders!