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But first, the best time to go hiking in New Zealand
If you’re planning to visit New Zealand for a hiking adventure, timing is key. It's important to note that during winter, many tracks can become hazardous. For the best experience, you’ll want to hit the trails when the weather is warm and dry and there’s plenty of daylight. With that in mind, consider planning your hiking holiday for the months between October and April. During this period, you can expect milder temperatures, longer daylight hours, and better trail conditions.
Because these months can get quite busy at campgrounds and holiday parks, it pays to book your campsites in advance to avoid missing out.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Protecting New Zealand’s kauri trees
Kauri trees in New Zealand are threatened by a pathogen which causes kauri dieback disease. It poses a significant threat to the survival of these ancient giants, which have cultural and ecological importance. To prevent the spread of this disease, it is crucial to keep your hiking boots and shoes clean when visiting areas with kauri trees.
Walking tracks with kauri trees throughout New Zealand have cleaning stations for decontaminating your footwear. This typically involves scrubbing your boots thoroughly with brushes and a cleaning solution to kill any potential pathogens. Ensuring your boots are clean helps protect New Zealand’s precious kauri trees and preserve the natural beauty of New Zealand's forests for future generations.
Top 10 hikes in New Zealand
Ready to lace up your hiking boots? Let’s take a look at some of the best hikes in New Zealand.
Rangitoto Summit Track
Distance: 7 km
Approx walking time: 2 hrs return
Location: Hauraki Gulf near Auckland
Difficulty: Moderate
The iconic Rangitoto Island is the youngest volcano in Auckland, having emerged from the sea just 600 years ago. This beautiful island is pest-free which means it’s a haven for native forest birds such as tūī, bellbird/korimako, New Zealand pigeon/kererū, fantail/pīwakawaka, grey warbler/riroriro and more. There are several walks to choose from on the island, but the most popular is the Rangitoto Summit Track. The well-formed track begins at the Rangitoto wharf and leads you through lava fields and through the world’s largest pōhutukawa forest. Once you reach the summit, you’ll be treated to fantastic panoramic views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf. For a fun diversion, head along the Lava Caves Track to explore the tunnels and caves.
To get to Rangitoto, you’ll need to park up your campervan and take the Fullers Ferry from downtown Auckland.
Where to stay: For a great night’s stay after your walk, book into the Takapuna Beach Holiday Park.
Kauaeranga Kauri Trail (Pinnacles Walk)
Distance: 6 km one way
Approx walking time: 3 hrs one way
Location: Coromandel, the southern entrance to Thames
Difficulty: Moderate
Located in the beautiful Coromandel, the Pinnacles Walk on the Kauaeranga Kauri Trail is one of New Zealand’s most popular overnight walks. However, it can be completed as a day walk if you’re up to it. The walk, which leads to the Pinnacles Hut, follows an original packhorse track constructed in the early 1900s. If you plan to stay overnight at the Pinnacle Hut, make sure you book well in advance.
Begin your hike at the carpark at the end of Kauaeranga Valley Road (about 9 km on from the Kauaeranga Visitor Centre). The path is flat and well-formed at the start, but you’ll soon be heading uphill, following the old stone steps that were put in for the pack horses to follow so many years ago. You’ll come across a few track junctions along the way but keep following the signs to the Pinnacles Hut. Stop along the way to take in the captivating views of the towering Billygoat Falls. Once you reach the hut, it’s a gradual climb up the side of The Pinnacles to reach the lookout. On a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views across the Coromandel.
Watch the NZ Mountain Safety Council’s walk-through video for helpful advice on how to prepare for this track.
Where to stay: Put your feet up for the night at the DOC Hotoritori Campsite.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Distance: 19.4 km one way
Approx walking time: Nov-May: 7-8 hr | Jun-Oct: 9 hr
Location: Tongariro National Park
Difficulty: Intermediate
Considered one of the best day hikes in New Zealand, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is top of the bucket list for many trampers. Around an hour’s drive south of Taupō on SH1, this iconic trail is the jewel in the crown of Tongariro National Park. The park is a place of profound significance as it not only holds the distinction of being New Zealand's oldest national park but is a dual UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also a place of dramatic, awe-inspiring natural scenery. As you walk the crossing, you’ll pass by unique landforms – from steaming vents and glacial valleys to ancient lava flows and vivid crater lakes. Also surrounding you on this remarkable journey are the unmistakable and majestic volcanic peaks of Ngāuruhoe, Tongariro, and Ruapehu.
Please be aware that while the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is beautiful and draws hikers from across the globe, it can pose risks if you're not adequately prepared. Given its alpine surroundings, the weather conditions have the potential to change unexpectedly throughout the year. It is not uncommon to experience very cold temperatures, strong winds, and heavy rainfall, even in the summer season. To ensure you’re safe and well-equipped, it’s a good idea to plan your crossing with a Tongariro Guided Walk.
Where to stay: Park up for the night at the edge of the national park at Mangahuia Campsite (non-powered).
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Mount Taranaki Summit Track
Distance: 6.3 km one-way
Approx walking time: Up 5–6 hr | down 3–4 hr
Location: Egmont National Park, Taranaki
Difficulty: Difficult
If you’re a fit and experienced hiker looking for a new challenge, you may like to add the Mount Taranaki Summit Track to your travel planner.
Rising above the clouds to a height of 2518 metres, majestic Mt Taranaki, also known as Mt Egmont, rewards intrepid adventurers with spectacular scenery. The entire journey takes approximately 8-10 hours, so an early morning start is recommended. The track can be accessed from either the Stratford Plateau entrance or the North Egmont entrance. From the North Egmont Visitor Centre, the trail begins in sheltered forest before transitioning to tussock until reaching Tahurangi Lodge. The lodge is the perfect spot for a rest and toilet stop before embarking on the more challenging and exposed section of the climb. The track continues through a gully offering breathtaking views along the ridge line. As you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with impressive panoramic views of the region.
Where to stay: Enjoy a peaceful night at North Egmont Retreat.
Pouakai Crossing
Distance: 19 km one way
Approx walking time: 7 – 9 hours (day walk version)
Location: Egmont National Park, Taranaki
Difficulty: Advanced
For those seeking a longer hike in the North Island, Taranaki’s Pouakai Crossing is an excellent choice. The track can be completed in approximately 7.5 hours, with the option to extend the hike by exploring some of the side trips. Surround yourself with the beauty of Mt Taranaki's lower slopes as you take in the views of towering cliffs, a spectacular waterfall, and unique wetlands.
The track starts from either Mangorei Road or the Egmont National Park Visitor Centre, and you can walk it in either direction, although there is less climbing if you start from the visitor centre.
If you’re keen on stretching the walk out over several days, plan a stop at the Pouakai Hut along the way. The weather in this region changes quickly, so be well prepared with warm, suitable clothing and footwear and check the weather forecast before heading off.
Where to stay: Park up your campervan for the night at Oakura Beach Holiday Park.
Mount Robert Circuit
Distance: 9 km loop
Approx walking time: 5 hours return
Location: Nelson
Difficulty: Advanced
Located in the Nelson Lakes National Park, Mount Robert Circuit can be walked as a day hike, or you can comfortably complete this track with an overnight stopover at Bushline Hut. This 9 km circuit, which combines the Pinchgut Track and Paddy's Track, provides stunning views over Lake Rotoiti.
The ascent begins with the zigzagging Pinchgut Track which will guide you up the steep and exposed face of Pourangahau/Mount Robert before transitioning into beech forest. After about 90 minutes, the bush edge opens up to reveal alpine herbs and shrubs. Continuing along the open ridge top, you'll arrive at Relax Shelter and the junction with Paddy's Track. Follow the track eastward to reach Bushline Hut, an ideal spot for a lunch break or overnight stay. To complete the circuit, descend Paddy's Track, and walk along Mt Robert Road for 500 meters back to the car park.
Where to stay: Relax in the beautiful surroundings of Kerr Bay Campsite.
Abel Tasman Coast Track
Distance: 60 km one way (full track – shorter options are available)
Approx walking time: 3-5 days one way (for full track)
Location: Abel Tasman National Park
Difficulty: Intermediate
Sitting at the top of the South Island, Abel Tasman Coast Track offers a captivating coastal journey that showcases New Zealand’s pristine beauty. The track is renowned as one of the best multi-day hikes in New Zealand. Stretching along the sparkling waters of the Tasman Sea, this stunning walk encompasses golden sandy beaches, lush native forests, and picturesque headlands. Hikers are treated to breathtaking views of turquoise bays and the rugged coastline, with opportunities to swim, kayak, or simply relax on the sunny shores. The track offers a range of options, so you can customise your walk depending on your desired distance and duration. Hike the whole track or take a water taxi between certain locations. There are four huts and 18 campsites along the track but note that these must be booked in advance all year round.
Where to stay: Enjoy a beachside stay at Kaiteriteri Campground.
Hooker Valley Track
Distance: 10 km return
Approx walking time: 3 hrs return
Location: Near Aoraki Mt Cook Village
Difficulty: Easy
Located in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, the scenic Hooker Valley Track offers breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and the iconic Mount Cook (Aoraki) itself. The well-maintained track takes you on a picturesque journey through alpine meadows, past glacial rivers and across swingbridges. After around 20 minutes’ walk, you’ll reach the first of many highlights – Lake Mueller Lookout. Enjoy the fantastic view of Mueller Lake with Mt Sefton in the background. Another unforgettable highlight is the picturesque Hooker Lake which is dotted with floating icebergs and backdropped by the majestic mountain range. For a truly special experience, plan your walk for sunrise when the landscape takes on a serene, magical atmosphere.
Where to stay: Camp beneath the magnificent alpine scenery at White Horse Hill Campground. This handy spot is also the perfect starting and finishing point for the track.
Roys Peak
Distance: 16 km return
Approx walking time: 5-6 hrs
Location: Wānaka
Difficulty: Easy
Keen to explore the great hikes in Wānaka? The popular walking track of Roys Peak is one of the most popular. This track offers awe-inspiring views of the stunning Southern Alps and picturesque Lake Wānaka. The track begins at Roys Peak car park and gradually climbs through farmland and tussock-covered slopes. As you make your way to the summit, the landscape unfolds, revealing the majestic peaks and the sparkling lake below. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama that stretches as far as the eye can see. Be sure to check the weather ahead of time – the walk is safer, more enjoyable, and the views much better, on a sunny summer’s day. Note, the track is closed for lambing from 1 October – 10 November each year.
Where to stay: Relax for the night at the Wanaka TOP 10 Holiday Park.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Ben Lomond Track
Distance: 11 km return
Approx walking time: 3-4 hr (return) to Ben Lomond Saddle, 6-8 hrs (return) to Ben Lomond Summit.
Location: Queenstown
Difficulty: Advanced
One of the best hikes in Queenstown for experienced trampers, the challenging yet immensely rewarding Ben Lomond Track takes you to a summit of 1438 m. Starting from the Queenstown Gondola base station, the track meanders through native beech forest, ascending steadily towards the alpine zone. As you climb higher, the landscape transforms into alpine tussocks and rocky terrain. At the summit, you’ll be greeted with a panoramic view that extends over the Queenstown region, with its shimmering lake and snow-capped peaks.
Ready to book your next adventure?
There you have our top 10 ‘bucket list’ hikes in New Zealand – and that’s just a sample. There are hundreds more to choose from! If you’ve got itchy feet and want to start exploring, take the first step and book your Britz campervan online today. Whether you’re keen on discovering the diverse landscapes of the North Island or the surreal scenery of the South, the very best way to see them is with a New Zealand road trip by campervan. With Britz branches in Christchurch, Queenstown, and Auckland, you can pick up your campervan at either end of the country and drop it off at another. So what are you waiting for? Dig out those hiking boots and kick off your awesome New Zealand adventure!