Much of the country is primed and ready for hikes, with plenty of well-marked and well-maintained trails to walk in. Wow these hikes all look so amazing! Rubbish Bag – All New Zealand national parks do not have rubbish bins in them. 27.6 km, moderateeval(ez_write_tag([[336,280],'theunendingjourney_com-leader-3','ezslot_8',122,'0','0'])); If you don’t have time to hike the entire Kepler Track, there are a few day hike options. And make sure you go there. Early in the morning, the forest is full of bird songs. I so badly want to go to New Zealand before but now I need to book my ticket already! 1,748 meters above sea level, you’ll be able to see all the way to Mount Earnslaw (Pikirakatahi) and Mount Aspiring (Tiitea) on a clear day. With some of the most pristine nature, epic landscapes, and unique biodiversity in the world, it’s no surprise that hiking and getting outside it pretty much on everyone’s bucketlist here.. With trails ranging from mellow walks to intense multi-day missions that require expertise, there is something for everyone here. A place of rugged, raw beauty. But it’s in the smaller towns that you’ll find better natural credentials: Rotorua serves up hot springs, while Taupo offers lakeside hikes and a jumping-off point to Tongariro National Park. And it’s also the start of the Routeburn Track. This New Zealand hike is a must for anyone who likes their ocean view suitably epic. Below are 12 incredible hiking trails in New Zealand that are must dos for anyone looking for the best day hikes. Hiking New Zealand’s South Island is definitely the way to get the best views, and you don’t even need to do a multi-day hike, a day walk in the South Island will do! Queenstown and Wanaka are right at the top, with easy access to great hiking opportunities. Our favourite travel backpack is the Osprey Aether (comes in 55 – 85 litre sizes). In reality, some sections are really steep and hard-going, requiring more than just a passing interest in hiking to get you to the top. You should be aware of paths that may become slippery and muddy, especially in the narrower sections of the hike. This loop trail takes you to the top and base of Taranaki Falls. So, it’s best to get there early. Hiking in New Zealand is awesome. You can do this at the official doc camping website here. 5 Things to Know before Hiking in New Zealand. Below is a list of my favorite hikes on New Zealand’s South Island. Once on the lower falls trail, there are some great places to relax while viewing the falls. Insect Repellant – In parts of New Zealand, sand flies can be quite vicious. We did quite a few of these (I hope you can get back to Tongariro, it was truly stunning) and I am totally with you on the love for the Mount Cook area. The trail then follows the river through a mossy forest before making its way up to the top via a small series of steps. And the Mueller Hut hike wasn’t an option either as it was buried under snow (in fact, the hut was closed that night because another storm was expected). So, don’t overlook it. A 5-minute walk from the main trail gets you there. Ah well…it sounds like we both need to go back to hike more. Sign Up. Thanks for your support. Your FREE account works with all Adventure Projects sites . New Zealand is a next-level destination for all things outdoors. Lonely Planet Hiking & Tramping in New Zealand; Lonely Planet New Zealand – indispensable guide for traveling in NZ.We consulted our LP throughout our whole trip. And unfortunately, some people just love to hog the spot for up to 15-minutes. And keas are the world’s only alpine parrot. A thick, lush forest drenched in green moss. I went on my first international journey when I was 19 and I haven't looked back since. We take you to the highlights If you’re heading to New Zealand (or coming from Australia), then I highly recommend stopping by the closest Kathmandu store to stock up on equipment. Please don’t be one of those people. Top New Zealand Hiking Trails: See reviews and photos of hiking trails in New Zealand, South Pacific on Tripadvisor. If you are looking for route inspiration then I have also created several road trips for New Zealand that visit many of these locations. woooow. Hiking in New Zealand is a travel adventure every mountain and nature lover should experience at least once in a lifetime!. One is definitely spoilt for choice when it comes to hiking trails in New Zealand! It’s a 3-day trek that’s about 43kms long. I’m fit enough to tackle a strenuous hike…but sometimes you don’t want to! I hope you discover the same. If you’re looking to spend time tramping, the best time to go hiking in New Zealand is from mid-October to April. I loveeee to hike!! This is such a great post with so many beautiful hikes! If that last track sounded too easy for you, and you like your hikes hardcore, stay tuned. Stewart Island is home to one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Rakiura Track, as well as a number of walking and hiking trails. You’ll be hiking through Alpine meadows and lush grasslands as you make your way from the shores of Lake Wanaka, and ascend 1,500 meters up. ***Note: This post contains affiliate links. This hike is the first part of the Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. And with only a few areas that are somewhat flat, this trail will have you huffing and puffing and your thighs and calves burning. New Zealand is a hiker’s paradise. Enjoy this portion of the trail. In general, New Zealand’s North Island is considered to have the most beautiful landscape, with peninsulas, harbours, and coastal hikes that make it a treat if you love the seaside. Read More Plan. I battled a seriously nasty infection that snaked up past my knee and by the time I made it to a local hospital they wanted to amputate. I can’t wait to get back and do the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Hiking New Zealand; Booking a walk independently. Yeeeeeeha! From the viewpoint, you can either continue hiking up to the very top of Roy’s Peak (it’s even steeper), or you can make your way back down. The trail up to Roy’s Peak meanders up numerous switchbacks (too many to count). You’ll be hiking the Alpine Crossing and around the smoking volcano Mount Ngauruhoe. Make sure you take the day to enjoy it and don’t rush. While we elected to camp at a couple of these locations, all of these New Zealand hiking trails can all easily be done in a day. If you decide to purchase through these links, I receive a small percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you. New Zealand was made for nature lovers. The weather can be extreme, the peaks hard going, and the routes long, so we’ve prepared a few tips you should bear in mind when you’re out on the trail: “Once upon a time, I almost lost my leg in a sweltering jungle…. It’s 7.5 km from the start of the trail to the Routeburn Flats Hut. Pack your hiking … You guys will recall from our most memorable mountain trip to the Himalayas, that we love to take in high peaks and breathtaking landscape views.. Dan and Bailey from Destinationless Travel, got us excited to pick one of the famous hiking trails in New Zealand. Custom Tours; Peak Bagger Custom Tour; Coastal Wanderer Custom Tour; Family Northern Explorer; Family Southern Explorer; Coast, Canyons and Mountains; … Share a Gem . Required fields are marked *. It’s one of the gentlest uphill hiking trails in New Zealand. If you’re planning on doing this hike, you need to know that the driving distance between the two ends of this trail is roughly 325 km. Closing Thoughts on South Island Hiking Tracks. And if you’re an outdoor lover, even months. Instead of driving, you can walk along the shore of Lake Te Anau from town to the start, taking about 50 minutes. The trail passes through Hooker Valley and alongside Hooker River (permission to laugh), crossing precarious swing bridges on a backdrop of snowy peaks. Travel Alert: Temporary border measures in place . You need to take this one at your own pace, no matter your fitness level. It links the Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks. Trekking through a beech forest, there are views of the Humboldt Mountains. You can go back the same way you came, or by completing the circuit with a descent to the lake. Be sure to carry your best lens, as this route has much to offer. I did the Tongariro Crossing many years ago–words can’t describe. This website is our passion and we love walking everywhere in stunning New Zealand. This island nation is famed for its natural credentials and that’s why Peter Jackson envisioned it as the perfect setting for shooting Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. It’s no secret – New Zealand is an outdoor enthusiasts paradise. Though sometimes, all that water made some trails impossible to do. Walk it all, walk it in your lifetime, walk New Zealand - walk Te Araroa! Explore the South Island's best hikes Share this page eval(ez_write_tag([[336,280],'theunendingjourney_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_7',110,'0','0'])); Though the South Island has the reputation for epic hikes, the North Island does offer a few alternatives for hiking. Why so popular? If you love hiking, you have to get there! The scenery is dramatic and ever-changing, the national parks are extensive, and best of all, a network of backcountry huts means you don’t even need to bring a tent while hiking in New Zealand. All you need to know about hiking in New Zealand. We’re here to help. I wracked up $15,000 in hospital bills, but these were completely covered by my travel insurance. Related Reading – 10 Helpful Tips for Driving in New Zealand. New Zealand. But, with the number of options and the extreme scenery to lap up, it is easy to find yourself totally out of your depth on a hike in New Zealand. The GRAYL GEOPRESS water bottle is the ONLY all-in-one filter water bottle setup you’ll need. Getting to the island is as simple as catching a 25-minute ferry from downtown. But, even better, the Hooker Valley Track has very little elevation gain, so its suitable for almost everyone (there are a few stairs as well as three swing bridges to cross). Extreme weather is a thing here, and the undulating terrain can really add to the strain. Knit Cap & Gloves – Again, you’ll want a knit cap and gloves in your pack just in case the temperature drops. Ben Lomond, Queenstown. Trail end views of Routeburn Track day hike. And if you want more of a workout, the Sealy Tarns Trail is the one to do. I was gutted that the weather just wouldn’t cooperate. Passing through diverse landscapes of native forests, beautiful lakes, tops of mountains and deep valleys, New Zealand’s nine world class multiday hiking trails provide access to its incredible national parks. On one side mountains. It was around Aoraki/Mount Cook that Sir Edmund Hillary practiced mountaineering and climbing before tackling the granddaddy of them all: Mount Everest, in 1953. So, make sure you have plenty. No matter the type of hike you go on, you gotta make sure you’re hydrated. If you do this trail, have a torch with you as parts of the tunnel are extremely dark. . Though many of New Zealand’s best hiking trails are well known, there are a few lesser-known routes that deserve your attention. You’ll always find one in my pack. Password help Share on Hiking Project. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks to fuel up along the way. Hiking New Zealand’s South Island is definitely the way to get the best views, and you don’t even need to do a multi-day hike, a day walk in the South Island will do! The Map of the hikes This interactive map shows the locations of all the trailheads. And to lose yourself on any of the many hiking trails in New Zealand is the best way to experience the best of the country.eval(ez_write_tag([[728,90],'theunendingjourney_com-box-3','ezslot_6',108,'0','0'])); As the terrain changes, not just from the North Island to the South Island, but even from the different regions on each island, there’s no shortage of wanderlust that will make you want to stay on the hiking trails of New Zealand for weeks. It’s very safe, so you can truly immerse yourself in your settings. Although famous for its ‘Nine Great Walks’, this land is filled with many epic hiking trails that will satisfy all types of walkers, whether you’re an intrepid multi-day explorer or prefer day hikes. Fun fact: the scene where the hobbits were running away from the Black Rider in LOTR was filmed here! Ben Lomond Track is one of the toughest hikes in New Zealand. And camping here, in either of the islands, is definitely an option — for most of the country, you can simply pull up at the side of the road and pitch. And, as each one isn’t too long, you can hike several in just a few hours. This is where things get challenging and you bring your inner fitness guru to life. Support the trust today so that you can enjoy the trail tomorrow, either one day at a time, or all 3000km! At least you can stop and talk to the sheep you pass on the first half of the hike. Attempting to do this track outside of these dates can be hazardous and has been fatal to hikers. Like you, I want to go back when its warmer (probably late January) as many trails were closed or partially closed due to snow. If you visit when the water is still, the mirror reflections are said to be jaw dropping.eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'theunendingjourney_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_0',118,'0','0'])); With picnic tables, it’s the perfect place for a mid-morning hike followed by lunch. I've spent a considerable amount of time on both islands and whilst the day hikes I've done on the South Island , are some of my favorites. So you can hike to your heart’s content without worrying about poisonous snakes (or any type of snake as none are on the islands) or getting eaten my mountain lions. 20+ Day New Zealand South Island Road Trip Itinerary. More information can be found at the DOC here. Every time I thought I had a favourite the next hike looked like it would outdo the previous one! Hooker Valley Track is situated in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, home to 19 peaks above 3,000 meters, and New Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki (or Mount Cook). Just outside of Queenstown is one of the most serene and lovely hiking trails in New Zealand, Moke Lake Trail. Protect your skin by having sun screen, hat, head buff, and sun glasses. These hiking trail views are insane! Most likely, that’s even the reason why you’re going. This awesome New Zealand hike lasts for around four days and takes you through some of the most amazing views and landscapes in the country. Get Hiking New Zealand & Active Earth Adventures travel tips delivered to your inbox The only problem is that there are too many hiking options to pick from! Start by hitting up the beach at Anchor Bay, and follow the trail with white markers. Thanks! New Zealand is a place of jaw-dropping beauty and astounding natural landscapes. Plan your hiking adventure. Huts and campsites must be booked in advance, due to how popular this hike is — prices vary throughout the year. New Zealand is one of the world’s best hiking destinations. A lot of fun and a lot, One of the most amusing and delightful places on m, many more hiking trails in Egmont National Park, many amazing hiking trails in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, 10 Helpful Tips for Driving in New Zealand, The Moai of Easter Island – The Best Sites to Visit, Angkor Thom: Complete Guide to the Temples, Sequoia & Kings Canyon - 22 Hiking Trails for All Levels, Hiking in Joshua Tree National Park: 6 Incredible Trails, 12 Incredible Hiking Trails in New Zealand, North Cascades: A Scenic Road Trip on Route 20. OR. Grand Trails of the South; North Island Adventure; South Island Adventure; Winter South Island Adventure ; 2 Day Fiordland Heli Escape; Fiordland, Hollyford and Stewart Island; travel deals hiking new zealand assurance Custom Tours. New Zealand. New Zealand’s Te Araroa Trail is the world’s newest long-distance thru-hike. Our final advice is for you to not overlook a few hiking essentials: a GPS or maps, a head torch, and a first aid kit are all staples for any hiking trip, and are easy to carry in your daypack. The Alpine Crossing is considered one of New Zealand’s best trails, as well as one of the best day hikes in the entire world. I couldn’t imagine living in New Zealand for 8 years, you’d never get me off the trails!! If you’re after a short walk with utterly breathtaking views, then the Hooker Valley Track is one of the best of New Zealand hiking trails. Rows of red trunks act as a large colonnade with the canopy stretching high above you. Sign Up or Log In. And it seems to go on forever before you need to change out the batteries. And after that, the journey continues with a climb up a steep stairway before you reach the summit of Mount John. Located at the end of a gravel road passing through green hills with flocks of sheep, Moke Lake is a hidden treasure in New Zealand. Glad you enjoyed this! The country splits into a North and a South Island. The further you go, the redwoods start to blend with more traditional New Zealand flora. Get out and explore New Zealand with great walks and hiking, shown on this map. New Zealand is one of the world’s best hiking destinations. New Zealand Travel Tips + A Budget Breakdown. New Zealand tramping tracks; Te Araroa Trail, 3,000 km (1,900 mi) Stretching from Cape Reinga in the north of New Zealand to Bluff in the South. This flexible Hop-on Hop-off bus pass allows you to either take your time in each epic stop over or cruise on through on the minimum time (18 days). Campervan Sites in New Zealand + Camping and Food Tips. eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'theunendingjourney_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_9',113,'0','0'])); Hiking the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing in Tongariro National Park was the reason I went to the North Island in New Zealand. Connect with Facebook. What I love so much about this track is that it’s accessible to almost anyone. It takes about an hour to complete this trail. But it offers toilets, bunks, and a large eat-in kitchen area with large windows to enjoy the scenery. The Map of the hikes This interactive map shows the locations of all the trailheads. Wool layers help you stay warm or cool depending on the temperature. And there are several picnic tables ensuring you do stop, sit, and soak it in. Or, if you’re taking a campervan around New Zealand, there’s campsites, too, for the perfect overnight retreat. You’ll find the trail head at the Great Divide stop on the Milford Highway. When out on the hiking trails in New Zealand, don’t expect to see a lot wildlife. Pssssst! Though many of New Zealand’s best hiking trails are well known, there are a few lesser-known routes that deserve your attention. Now that we’ve clued you up on how to stay safe during your hike, it’s time to get on with the good stuff. 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