New Zealand's Great Walks

Incredible landscapes, an abundance of nature and exposure to unique cultural heritage, there is a reason why New Zealand's Great Walks are known throughout the world.

Hiking Easy, Moderate, Difficult

Also in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand • Manawatu-Wanganui, New Zealand • Otago, New Zealand • Tasman District, New Zealand • Waikato, New Zealand • West Coast, New Zealand

Description

New Zealand's Great Hikes have earned global repute as nine remarkable trails across North, South and Stewart Islands. Indeed, the most famous of the nine, the Milford Track, is often referred to as 'the finest walk in the world'.

Their reputation is deserved.

Covering everything from soaring alpine peaks to glassy fjords, dense rainforests to rugged coastline, the Great Walks offer an opportunity to venture deep into the heart of this spectacular country.

Needless to say, fame of these trails attracts thousands of hikers every year. During the Great Walks season (October - May) booking ahead is essential, particularly for the more famous tracks. And while they are often open out of season, conditions can vary enormously and significant hiking experience is recommended for those attempting the trails in winter.

Those who do take on the challenge, whichever hike they choose, are guaranteed a truly rewarding - and memorable - adventure.

Routes included

Routeburn Track

Possibly the most famous hike in The Long of the White Cloud, this is New Zealand at its very finest.

Moderate Hiking

Distance: 32 km
Ascent: 1.7 km
Descent: 1.7 km

Kepler Track

A 60 kilometre loop which passes through some of New Zealand's most impressive scenery (and that's saying something) close to the small town of Te Anau in the Fjordland region of the South Island.

Moderate Hiking

Distance: 57 km
Ascent: 2.3 km
Descent: 2.3 km

Abel Tasman Coastal Track

If sandy beaches, beautiful forests and a warm climate sound like your thing, this 60 kilometre adventure is the hike for you.

Moderate Hiking

Distance: 22 km
Ascent: 824 m
Descent: 829 m

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Traverse active volcanoes in New Zealand's oldest national park.

Difficult Hiking

Distance: 20 km
Ascent: 808 m
Descent: 1.2 km

The Heaphy Track

One of New Zealand's most challenging Great Walks, the Heaphy Track is a stunning multi-day hike through diverse terrain.

Difficult Hiking

Distance: 74 km
Ascent: 2.1 km
Descent: 2.3 km

The Paparoa Track

A multi-day hike that takes in rainforests, alpine peaks and breathtaking views aplenty.

Difficult Hiking

Distance: 51 km
Ascent: 2.4 km
Descent: 2.1 km

Lake Waikaremoana Track

From dense rainforest to sheer cliff faces, the Lake Waikaremoana is a stunning, and remote, four day hike in the heart of the North Island.

Difficult Hiking

Distance: 48 km
Ascent: 2.4 km
Descent: 2.3 km

Milford Track

Boasting ancient rainforests, glacial valleys and spectacular views, it's easy to see why the Milford Track is often called the 'the finest walk in the world'.

Moderate Hiking

Distance: 56 km
Ascent: 2.4 km
Descent: 2.5 km

Rakiura Track

A true island adventure - thick forest, stunning coastline and an abundance of history make the Rakiura Track a beautiful hike through the heart of Stewart Island.

Easy Hiking