New Zealand is known for its stunning natural landscapes, and one of the best ways to experience them is by taking a multi-day hiking trip. Known as the Great Walks, these 10 trails wind through some of the country’s most beautiful terrain, from towering mountains to pristine lakes and lush forests. Here are some of the most popular Great Walks in New Zealand:
Milford Track
The Milford Track is often considered the “queen” of New Zealand’s Great Walks. It’s a 53.5-kilometer trail that takes hikers through some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery, including snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and cascading waterfalls. The trail is considered moderate to difficult, with steep climbs and descents, as well as potentially challenging weather conditions. Hikers typically complete the trail in four days, staying overnight in huts along the way.
The Milford Track is one of the most beautiful hikes in the world, and the scenery is truly breathtaking. The trail is well-maintained and features excellent facilities, including comfortable huts with hot showers and cooking facilities.
Because the Milford Track is so popular, it can be crowded, and hikers need to book well in advance to secure a spot. The trail is also expensive, with fees for huts and transportation adding up quickly.
Difficulty level: 4/5
Tongariro Northern Circuit
The Tongariro Northern Circuit is a 43-kilometre loop trail that takes hikers through Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trail is considered moderate to difficult, with steep climbs and descents, as well as potentially challenging weather conditions. Hikers typically complete the trail in three to four days, staying overnight in huts along the way.
The Tongariro Northern Circuit offers stunning views of volcanic landscapes, including the famous Mount Ngauruhoe (also known as Mount Doom from the Lord of the Rings movies). The trail is well-maintained and features excellent facilities, including comfortable huts with hot showers and cooking facilities.
That being said, the Tongariro Northern Circuit can be challenging, particularly for inexperienced hikers. The weather can be unpredictable, with snow and ice possible even in the summer months. Hikers should be prepared with appropriate gear and be comfortable with steep climbs and descents.
Difficulty level: 3/5
Abel Tasman Coast Track
The Abel Tasman Coast Track is a 60-kilometre trail that takes hikers along the stunning coastline of Abel Tasman National Park. The trail is considered easy to moderate, with relatively flat terrain and well-maintained paths. Hikers typically complete the trail in three to five days, staying overnight in huts or campsites along the way.
The Abel Tasman Coast Track is one of the easiest Great Walks, making it accessible to hikers of all levels. The trail features stunning beaches and turquoise waters, as well as opportunities for wildlife viewing. The huts and campsites along the way are comfortable and well-maintained.
Because the Abel Tasman Coast Track is so popular, it can be crowded during peak season. Hikers should book well in advance to secure a spot. The trail can also be expensive, with fees for huts and transportation adding up quickly.
Difficulty level: 1/5
Kepler Track
The Kepler Track is a 60-kilometre loop trail that takes hikers through Fiordland National Park, one of New Zealand’s most stunning wilderness areas. The trail is considered moderate to difficult, with steep climbs and descents, as well as potentially challenging weather conditions. Hikers typically complete the trail in three to four days, staying overnight in huts along the way.
The Kepler Track offers stunning views of Fiordland National Park, including mountain ranges, alpine meadows, and lakes. The trail is well-maintained and features excellent facilities, including comfortable huts with hot showers and cooking facilities.
It can be challenging, particularly for inexperienced hikers. The weather can be unpredictable, with snow and ice possible even in the summer months. Hikers should be prepared with appropriate gear and be comfortable with steep climbs and descents.
Difficulty level: 3/5
Routeburn Track
The Routeburn Track is a 32-kilometre trail that takes hikers through both Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks. The trail is considered moderate, with some steep climbs and descents. Hikers typically complete the trail in two to three days, staying overnight in huts along the way.
The Routeburn Track offers stunning views of both Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks, including mountain ranges, waterfalls, and valleys. The trail is well-maintained and features excellent facilities, including comfortable huts with hot showers and cooking facilities.
However, the Routeburn Track can be crowded during peak season, and hikers need to book well in advance to secure a spot. The trail can also be expensive, with fees for huts and transportation adding up quickly.
Difficulty level: 2/5
Heaphy Track
The Heaphy Track is one of the most popular Great Walks, offering hikers a unique opportunity to explore the Kahurangi National Park. The track is 78.4 kilometres long and takes around four to five days to complete. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the Tasman Sea, as well as lush forests and alpine terrain. The track is well-maintained and offers a range of facilities, including huts and campsites.
However, the Heaphy Track can be challenging, particularly for hikers who are not used to tramping. The weather conditions can also be unpredictable, with rain and wind common during the winter months. Hikers should also be aware that the track is closed during the winter months.
Difficulty level: 3/5
Paparoa Track
The Paparoa Track is a new addition to the Great Walks, opening in 2019. The track is 55 kilometres long and takes around three to four days to complete. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the Paparoa Range, as well as the famous Pancake Rocks. The track is well-maintained and offers a range of facilities, including huts and campsites.
It can be challenging, particularly for hikers who are not used to tramping. The weather conditions can also be unpredictable, with rain and wind common during the winter months. Hikers should also be aware that the track is closed during the winter months.
Difficulty level: 3/5
Rakiura Track
The Rakiura Track is located on Stewart Island and offers hikers a unique opportunity to explore the island’s stunning landscapes. The track is 29.3 kilometres long and takes around two to three days to complete. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the island’s forests and wildlife, including the elusive kiwi bird. The track is considered one of the easier Great Walks, making it accessible for hikers of all skill levels.
The Rakiura Track can be challenging during adverse weather conditions, particularly during the winter months. Hikers should also be aware that there are limited facilities and services on the track, so it’s important to be self-sufficient.
Difficulty level: 2/5
Lake Waikaremoana Track
The Lake Waikaremoana Track offers stunning views of forests, waterfalls, and the beautiful Lake Waikaremoana. The track is 46 kilometres long and takes around three to four days to complete. The track is considered one of the more challenging Great Walks, making it ideal for experienced hikers. The track is best experienced between November and April, when the weather is more favourable.
The Lake Waikaremoana Track can be challenging, particularly during adverse weather conditions. Hikers should also be prepared for steep climbs and descents.
Difficulty level: 3/5
Whanganui Journey
The Whanganui Journey is a unique Great Walk that takes hikers along the Whanganui River by canoe or kayak. The journey is 145 kilometres long and takes around five to seven days to complete. The river offers stunning views of lush forests, waterfalls, and wildlife, including the endangered blue duck. The journey is considered one of the easier Great Walks, making it accessible for hikers of all skill levels.
The Journey can be challenging during adverse weather conditions, particularly during the winter months. Hikers should also be aware that there are limited facilities and services on the journey, so it’s important to be self-sufficient.
Difficulty level: 2/5
Overall, New Zealand’s Great Walks offer hikers a unique opportunity to explore the country’s stunning natural beauty. However, hikers should be aware of the challenges associated with each track, particularly during adverse weather conditions. By being prepared and choosing a track that suits their skill level, hikers can have a truly memorable experience exploring New Zealand’s great outdoors.