The Best National Parks To Put On Your New Zealand Bucket List

Te Urewera National Park

Situated in the North Island's eastern region, Te Urewera National Park is a testament to New Zealand's remote and rugged wilderness. 

Te Urewera is unique, not just for its biodiversity, but also its legal status. In a world first, New Zealand law acknowledges this park as a living entity, offering it the same rights and protections as a person. This recognition underscores a commitment to safeguard the park's inherent value and maintain its pristine condition for future generations.

Tramping in Te Urewera is a nature lover's dream. The park's flagship track, the Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk, will guide you along 46 kilometres of serene waterside trails, through enchanting native forests, and past cascading waterfalls. The walk typically takes 3-4 days, but shorter sections can be completed in a day, making it perfect for casual walkers and seasoned trampers alike.

 

Tongariro National Park

Sitting in the heart of the North Island, Tongariro National Park encapsulates a stark yet captivating contrast of landscapes. The park's volcanic terrain, dusted with snow in winter, provides an almost otherworldly setting that's simultaneously exhilarating and tranquil. It's no wonder the area served as a backdrop for the legendary Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings films.

One of the most recognised trails in New Zealand, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, sits within this park. This 19.4 km journey navigates the slopes of active volcanoes, traversing lunar-like landscapes. It's an all-day hike that provides a true test of endurance, but with panoramic views that make every step worthwhile.

But Tongariro National Park isn't only about trekking through volcanic terrains. When winter descends, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland, with ski fields at Whakapapa and Turoa offering downhill adventures for snow sports enthusiasts.

 

Image: Tourism New Zealand - Miles Holden

 

Abel Tasman National Park

Sitting at the northwestern tip of the South Island, Abel Tasman National Park dazzles with its golden sands, clear blue waters, and untouched beauty. Although it is New Zealand's smallest national park, it certainly doesn't skimp on stunning sights and thrilling experiences.

Here, you'll find a picture-perfect coastline dotted with granite cliffs that give way to silky beaches. These are seamlessly intertwined with lush native forest, creating a paradise that captures the best of both land and sea. The captivating scenery makes for an unforgettable experience whether you're exploring by foot, kayak, or boat.

The Abel Tasman Coast Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks, meanders through the park for about 60 km. The hike provides breathtaking views of the coast, taking you through native bush, across swing bridges, past hidden inlets, and right onto the warm sands of the beaches themselves.

 

Nelson Lakes National Park

Located near the top of New Zealand's South Island, Nelson Lakes National Park serves as the spectacular gateway to the Southern Alps. Here, you’ll find a world where crystal-clear lakes meet towering mountain peaks and alpine meadows. 

The park’s crown jewels are undoubtedly Lakes Rotoiti and Rotoroa. Each offers an array of water activities amidst stunning scenic beauty. Whether you're skimming a stone across the serene water or simply soaking in the sun on the beach, the lakes are a must-visit.

Nelson Lakes National Park also offers a plethora of walks and hikes to suit all fitness levels. One of the most popular is the Lake Rotoiti Circuit, which offers spectacular views and opportunities to spot local wildlife. 

 

Paparoa National Park

On the wild west coast of the South Island lies Paparoa National Park, a unique blend of geological wonders and rich biodiversity. Its coastline, with towering limestone cliffs and intricate cave systems, is renowned for the peculiar Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki.

The dramatic karst landscape of the park has been sculpted over millions of years, resulting in a surreal labyrinth of caves, sinkholes, and underground streams. To truly appreciate this unique topography, consider venturing along the Pororari River Track, which leads you through a stunning canyon lined with native forest.

A standout feature of the park is the Paparoa Track, New Zealand's newest Great Walk. The trail takes you on a journey through the diverse landscapes of the park, including lush rainforests and river valleys. The track also provides the opportunity to pay homage at the Pike River Mine Memorial Site.

 

Arthur’s Pass National Park

Situated midway between Christchurch and Greymouth, Arthur’s Pass National Park is a unique destination where the majesty of the Southern Alps is on full display. It's an awe-inspiring landscape of steep gorges, vast scree slopes, and rugged, and snow-capped mountains. It’s also where the call of the cheeky kea, New Zealand’s native parrot, echoes through the valleys.

The park is known for its challenging yet rewarding trails. One popular option is the Bealey Valley Track, which offers breathtaking views of Mount Rolleston and Arthur's Pass. 

Arthur’s Pass Village, nestled in the heart of the park, is the perfect place to rest, refuel, and marvel at the dramatic landscapes. Its visitor centre is a trove of valuable information about the park's flora, fauna, and history. And don't miss the Otira Viaduct Lookout, a short drive from the village, for a unique perspective on the park’s grandeur.

 

Aoraki / Mt Cook National Park

Located in the centre of New Zealand's South Island, Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park is a world of vast glaciers and surreal landscapes. The park is home to more than 19 peaks over 3000 metres, including Aoraki/Mt Cook itself - the highest mountain in the country. There's a sense of being on top of the world here, with the sky so close it feels like you can touch it.

The Hooker Valley Track is one of the most popular trails, providing an easy walk to a glacier lake with icebergs and unmatched views of Aoraki/Mt Cook. For those seeking a real alpine adventure, the Sealy Tarns Track, often dubbed the 'Stairway to Heaven', offers a steep, challenging hike rewarded with spectacular vistas.

After dark, the park transforms into a stargazer's paradise. As part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, the park is one of the best spots in the world for observing the night sky.

 

Image: Tourism New Zealand - Miles Holden

 

Mt Aspiring National Park

Perched in the southwest corner of New Zealand's South Island, Mt Aspiring National Park is a place of remarkable contrasts. Picture towering mountains reaching towards the sky, their snowy peaks stark against the blue, and tranquil river valleys carved through ancient forests.

If you’re keen to get your tramping gear on, the Rob Roy Track is a must-try. This easy 10 km route offers up spectacular views of the Rob Roy Glacier and a chance to experience the park's alpine environment. For a shorter adventure, the 3 km Blue Pools Track leads through silver beech forests to pristine, crystal-clear pools of the Makarora River. 

After a day of adventure, head into the nearby charming town of Wānaka, renowned for its stunning lake, water activities, and vibrant dining scene. Don't miss exploring the nearby Cardrona Valley, with its historic hotel and popular ski field. 

 

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park, situated on the western coast of the South Island, is a spectacle of majestic fiords, dramatic waterfalls, and soaring peaks. The park's crowning glory, Milford Sound, is an epic display of nature's power and beauty, with its glacier-carved cliffs plunging into dark, tranquil waters.

The Milford Track, often hailed as the 'finest walk in the world', traverses through lush rainforest and alpine passes. The track ends at the magnificent Sutherland Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in New Zealand. The shorter, but no less breathtaking, Key Summit Track offers a sampler of the park's spectacular scenery.

A journey to the remote Preservation Inlet reveals remnants of Fiordland's gold mining history, while the Te Anau Glowworm Caves are a magical underworld of shimmering luminescence. This park's remarkable biodiversity and untouched landscapes make it a destination that truly stands apart.

 

Rakiura National Park

Located off the southernmost point of New Zealand's South Island, Rakiura National Park occupies the majority of Stewart Island. Its name Rakiura, translating to 'Glowing Skies', speaks to the breathtaking sunsets and the mesmerising Aurora Australis that occasionally grace its night sky.

The park is a sanctuary for native wildlife, its untouched forests echoing with the chorus of birds. The Rakiura Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks, is a fantastic way to experience the coastal beauty and dense rainforest that characterise the park. In addition, many shorter walks, such as the Fuchsia Walk and the Fern Gully Track, allow visitors to explore the park at a leisurely pace.

An essential part of any visit to Rakiura National Park is embarking on a wildlife tour to spot kiwi birds in their natural habitat. With an estimated 20,000 birds, Stewart Island is home to New Zealand's largest and most accessible kiwi population. A visit to Ulva Island, a predator-free bird sanctuary, offers an unparalleled opportunity to see rare bird species up close. 

 

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

Honourable Mentions

While we've traversed some of the most stunning national parks in New Zealand, there are four more worth an honourable mention. 

 

Kahurangi National Park

Situated in the northwest of the South Island, Kahurangi National Park is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes. The park is home to everything from rugged mountain ranges and alpine herb fields to marble caves and lush coastal forests. Adventure seekers will enjoy the Heaphy Track, another of New Zealand’s Great Walks, showcasing the park’s dramatic coastal and forest landscapes.

 

Westland Tai Poutini National Park

Running from the highest peaks of the Southern Alps to the remote beaches of the West Coast is the spectacular Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Its crowning glory, the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers descend through rainforest from the high alpine zone – a phenomenon seen in only a few places worldwide.

 

Whanganui National Park

Whanganui National Park, located in the west of the North Island, offers visitors an extraordinary journey through lowland forests and riverside vistas. The park's main feature, the Whanganui River, is New Zealand's longest navigable waterway, renowned for scenic canoe journeys and the historical Bridge to Nowhere.

 

Egmont National Park

Distinctively centred around the active volcano of Mount Taranaki, Egmont National Park, in the west of the North Island, boasts unique circular boundaries. This park offers hikes through lush rainforests, waterfalls, and reflective tarns, leading to the challenging summit climb.

 

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

Can you camp in New Zealand’s National Parks?

The Department of Conservation (DOC) manages a network of campsites in national parks. However, before you head off on your road trip, it’s important to first have a good understanding of the camping rules and conditions in national parks.  Always check the specific rules for each park before embarking on your journey.

Although each park and campsite will differ slightly, most campsites are non-powered. Hence, it's recommended to plug your campervan into mains power at least every second night. Driving for a few hours each day will help recharge the vehicle's battery, and some campervans come equipped with solar panels. However, bear in mind that staying multiple days at a non-powered site could drain the battery, affecting the functionality of onboard appliances such as the fridge.

TOP TIP: Check out our handy guide on what to pack for a campervan road trip.

 

Leave no trace

Always adhere to the Leave No Trace principles by properly disposing of all waste, including grey water, toilet waste, and rubbish. Make use of designated dump stations for safe and responsible waste disposal. This way, we can all do our bit to care for New Zealand’s environment and the special wildlife who call it home. 

We encourage you to join us in upholding New Zealand's Tiaki Promise and commit to preserving the beauty of our camping sites for future generations.

 

Keen to explore New Zealand’s beautiful outdoors?

From towering mountain peaks to golden beaches, each of New Zealand’s national parks offers unforgettable experiences waiting to be discovered from the comfort of your Britz campervan.

Planning your epic road trip starts with booking the perfect Britz campervan online. Once you've made your choice, simply pick up your camper from your nearest Britz branch and start exploring the wonders of New Zealand's national parks. 

Happy travels!