Discover Aotearoa – New Zealand’s Most Breathtaking Hikes

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Embark on a trekking adventure and discover Aotearoa – New Zealand’s most breathtaking hikes, where each trail leads you deep into the heart of the country’s wild beauty. From the misty fjords of the Milford Track to the dramatic volcanic ridgelines of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, these iconic paths are more than just scenic walks — they’re immersive journeys into diverse landscapes teeming with native birdlife like the cheeky kea and fluttering pīwakawaka (fantail).

A Personal Note from Us

We were first introduced to the joy of hiking by a good friend who had walked tracks in almost every corner of Aotearoa – New Zealand. He taught us that hiking isn’t about the distance or speed — it’s about slowing down, tuning into the land, and finding joy in the details. We learned to notice things like the layers of earth beneath our boots, revealing hundreds of years of natural activity and change in the area.

Over the years, we’ve tackled some pretty challenging trails, in between big hike we try to walk a couple of two-hour hikes each week to keep fit and connected to nature. One thing we’ve learned — especially in Aotearoa — is to always be ready for anything. The weather can shift in an instant, so packing for four seasons in one day is just part of the plan. But when everything aligns, these hikes are truly unforgettable.

Essential Guide to Aotearoa – New Zealand’s Most Famous Trails

The South Island’s Routeburn Track takes you past glacial valleys, ancient beech forests, and jewel-toned lakes, while the Abel Tasman Coast Track winds along golden beaches and tranquil turquoise coves perfect for a dip. Thanks to the Department of Conservation (DOC), these trails are well-maintained, clearly marked, and equipped with welcoming huts — especially vibrant between October and April when alpine blooms and long daylight hours make hiking even more rewarding.

Why Aotearoa – New Zealand’s Hiking Trails Stand Out

Trekking in Aotearoa feels like walking through a living postcard, where each twist in the path unveils a new wonder. One moment you’re deep in the subtropical forest of the North Island, the next you’re tracing ancestral Māori footpaths through Whanganui National Park or gazing up at Aoraki/Mount Cook’s snow-covered summit in the South.

Blending natural grandeur, rich cultural stories, and a world-class trail system, hiking here is unforgettable — whether you’re catching sunrise from a DOC hut or swapping trail tales with fellow adventurers over a cuppa. It’s no wonder this land, Aotearoa, continues to inspire explorers from around the world.

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Step Into the Wild: Aotearoa’s Most Unforgettable Hiking Adventures

Here are some of the most breathtaking treks to add to your itinerary when visiting Aotearoa – New Zealand. From coastal walks to alpine crossings, these trails offer a glimpse into the land’s natural beauty, cultural history, and untamed spirit — all waiting to be explored on foot.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Tongariro National Park

  • Distance: 19.4 km
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Duration: Full day
  • Location: Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park is home to one of Aotearoa – New Zealand’s most iconic hikes—the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This isn’t your average walk in the park. It’s a full-day adventure through an otherworldly volcanic landscape, with rugged craters, steaming vents, and surreal lakes so vividly blue and green they look almost unreal.

The track isn’t just about the scenery, though; it’s a demanding trek with steep climbs and unpredictable weather that can change in an instant. Pack layers, check the forecast, and be prepared for all conditions. I’ve seen people attempt this in jandals—even in a dress (please don’t be that person!).

But when or if the clouds lift and you’re standing high above the Central Plateau, taking in the vast, dramatic beauty of the National Park, you’ll understand why this is one of Aotearoa – New Zealand’s most legendary day hikes.

Keen to explore more? Check out our full travel guide of Mount Ruapehu and Surrounding areas which is all part of the Tongariro National Park.

Routeburn Track, Mt Aspiring & Fiordland National Parks

  • Distance: 32 km
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Duration: 2–4 days
  • Location: Mt Aspiring & Fiordland National Parks, South Island

Towering waterfalls, ancient beech forests, and dramatic mountain peaks will have your camera working overtime. This is one of the country’s most popular multi-day hikes for good reason, offering breathtaking views at every turn. But with popularity comes demand—if you plan to stay in the huts, book well in advance. The ever-changing alpine weather means you’ll need to be well-prepared, but when you’re standing at Harris Saddle, surrounded by endless mountain ranges, you’ll know it was all worth it.

Keen to explore more? Check out our full travel guide to Piopiotahi- Milford Sounds for everything you need to know.

Mitre Peak Track, Fiordland National Park

  • Distance: 1.5 km to base
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Duration: Varies with experience
  • Location: Fiordland National Park

Mitre Peak Track may be short, but don’t let that fool you—this is a seriously steep climb that will test your legs and endurance. If you’re up for the challenge, though, the reward is unbeatable. From the top, you’ll get a breathtaking, bird’s-eye view of Milford Sound, one of Aotearoa – New Zealand’s most spectacular natural wonders.

The track isn’t for the faint-hearted, and the terrain can be tricky, so good fitness, proper gear, and a solid weather check are a must. But make it to the summit, and you’ll see why this climb is worth every step.

Aoraki-Mt Cook Summit Track, Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park

  • Distance: 3.8 km to Mueller Hut
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Duration: Varies with conditions
  • Location: Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park

Aoraki/Mt Cook Summit Track – this is the big one! You’ll be trekking in the shadow of Aotearoa – New Zealand’s highest peak, surrounded by dramatic alpine landscapes. The climb to Mueller Hut is steep and demanding, but the reward? Front-row seats to some of the most jaw-dropping mountain views in the country. Think glaciers, rugged ridgelines, and a panorama that makes every step worth it.

This is an alpine environment, so be prepared—check the weather, pack layers, and bring the right gear. If you’re after a true high-altitude adventure, this one delivers.

Rees-Dart Track, Otago

  • Distance: 59 km
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
  • Duration: 4–5 days
  • Location: Otago

The Rees-Dart Track is a bit of an underrated gem, offering a true backcountry adventure through some of Aotearoa – New Zealand’s most breathtaking alpine scenery. Winding through valleys, past rivers, and up to stunning glacier views, this multi-day trek is perfect for those who love a mix of challenge and solitude. Keep an eye out for cheeky kea, the world’s only alpine parrots, who are known for their curious (and sometimes mischievous) nature.

The track can be remote and weather conditions unpredictable, so good preparation and proper gear are essential. If you’re after a quieter but equally spectacular alternative to the more famous Great Walks, this one’s for you.

Keen to explore more? Check out our full travel guide to Ōtākou – Otago for everything you need to know.

Abel Tasman Coast Track, Abel Tasman National Park

  • Distance: 60 km
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Duration: 3–5 days
  • Location: Abel Tasman National Park, South Island

The Abel Tasman Coast Track is beach hopping at its finest! With crystal-clear waters, golden sand, and lush bush-clad hills, this is one of Aotearoa – New Zealand’s most stunning coastal hikes. Unlike the tougher alpine tracks, this one’s more relaxed — perfect for mixing hiking with swimming and kayaking. The well-formed trail winds along the coastline, passing secluded bays and tidal inlets, so timing your walk with the tides is key. Whether you tackle the full route or just a section, this track is a dream for those who love a blend of adventure and relaxation.

Keen to explore more? Check out our full travel guide to Abel Tasman National Park for everything you need to know.

Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk, Te Urewera

  • Distance: 46 km
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Duration: 3–4 days
  • Location: Te Urewera, North Island

The Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk is a true North Island bush experience, taking you deep into the heart of Te Urewera, the ancestral land of the Tūhoe people. This multi-day trek winds through misty forests, rugged ridgelines, and along the shores of the vast, tranquil lake.

The climbs are no joke — expect a good workout, especially up Panekire Bluff — but the views from the top are absolutely worth it. This track is less crowded than some of the more well-known Great Walks, making it perfect for those who love a bit of solitude and immersion in nature.

Be prepared for changing conditions, pack your layers, and take your time soaking in the wild beauty of this special place.

Roy’s Peak Track, Wānaka, South Island

  • Distance: 16 km return
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Duration: Full day
  • Location: Wānaka, South Island, Aotearoa

The Roy’s Peak Track is that famous Instagram spot, and for good reason — the panoramic views over Lake Wānaka and the Southern Alps are nothing short of spectacular. Be prepared for a steady, relentless climb, as the track zigzags up through tussock-covered slopes with little shade.

And yes, if you want that photo at the summit, you might have to queue, especially in peak season. But don’t let that put you off — the views from the top are well worth the effort. Start early to beat the crowds, pack plenty of water, and get ready for one of Aotearoa – New Zealand’s most iconic hikes.

Keen to explore more? Check out our full travel guide to Wanaka for everything you need to know.

Tongariro Northern Circuit, Tongariro National Park

  • Distance: 43 km
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
  • Duration: 3–4 days
  • Location: Tongariro National Park

The Tongariro Northern Circuit is like the big sibling of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing—same otherworldly volcanic landscapes, but with more solitude and even more epic views. This multi-day loop takes you through lava fields, alpine meadows, and past the Emerald Lakes, giving you a deeper experience of this UNESCO-listed national park. While it shares some sections with the famous day hike, it offers quieter trails and ever-changing scenery, making it a great option for those wanting to fully immerse themselves in Tongariro’s raw beauty. Be ready for changing weather, exposed terrain, and some solid climbs, but if you’re up for the challenge, this track delivers in every way.

🌋 Planning to hike it yourself? Don’t miss our complete guide to Conquering the Tongariro Alpine Crossing — packed with practical tips, what to pack, when to go, and what to expect on the trail.

Mt Taranaki Summit Track, Egmont National Park

  • Distance: 12 km return
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Duration: Full day
  • Location: Egmont National Park, North Island

The Mt Taranaki Summit Track is not for the faint-hearted — steep, exposed, and demanding from start to finish. This challenging climb takes you up the slopes of one of Aotearoa – New Zealand’s most perfectly shaped volcanoes, and while the scree and rugged terrain will test your legs, the reward is unbeatable. On a clear day, the views stretch forever — across the North Island and even to the South Island. But don’t underestimate this one — the weather can change in an instant, and the descent can be just as tough as the climb. Pack for all conditions, start early, and be prepared for a serious alpine adventure.

Keen to explore more? Check out our full Taranaki travel guide for everything you need to know.

Whanganui Journey, Whanganui National Park

  • Distance: 87 km (5 days) or 62 km (3 days)
  • Difficulty: Moderate (paddling experience recommended)
  • Duration: 3 or 5 days
  • Location: Whanganui National Park, North Island

Paddle through history on Aotearoa – New Zealand’s only Great Walk that isn’t a walk at all. The Whanganui Journey takes you down an ancient river highway, once a vital connection between the mountains and the sea. This 87 km river adventure (or 62 km for a shorter option) winds through deep gorges, past sacred Māori sites, and into some of the North Island’s most remote and breathtaking wilderness. More than just a journey, it’s an experience of Te Awa Tupua — the Whanganui River, legally recognised as a living entity — offering a true immersion into both its cultural and natural significance.

Keen to explore more? Check out our full Whanganui travel guide for everything you need to know.

Heaphy Track, Kahurangi National Park

  • Distance: 78.4 km (one way)
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Duration: 4–6 days
  • Location: Kahurangi National Park, South Island

Experience five distinct worlds on the Heaphy Track, Aotearoa – New Zealand’s longest Great Walk. This 78.4 km journey takes you through diverse landscapes, from alpine tussocks and limestone cliffs to nīkau palm-fringed beaches. Hike through ancient beech forests, cross river valleys, and enjoy the chance to spot rare wildlife, including the great spotted kiwi. Whether hiking or mountain biking (seasonal), the Heaphy Track offers an unforgettable adventure from the mountains to the sea.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park

  • Distance: 53.5 km (one way)
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Duration: 4 days / 3 nights (strictly enforced)
  • Location: Fiordland National Park, South Island

Known as the ‘finest walk in the world’, the Milford Track is a 53.5 km journey through the heart of Fiordland National Park. This iconic walk takes you along glacier-carved valleys, beneath towering peaks, across alpine passes, and past New Zealand’s tallest waterfall, Sutherland Falls. Strictly managed and available only during the summer season, the Milford Track offers an unparalleled experience that has captivated hikers for over a century.

Kepler Track, Fiordland National Park

  • Distance: 60 km (loop track)
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
  • Duration: 3–4 days
  • Location: Fiordland National Park, South Island

The Kepler Track is a masterpiece of trail design, offering a 60 km loop that highlights the very best of Fiordland. Purpose-built to showcase alpine ridges, beech forests, and lakeshores, the Kepler Track’s unique loop format makes it a logistically simple yet spectacular adventure. From the exposed alpine ridges with 360-degree views to glowworm-lit valleys, this track provides an unforgettable journey for both first-time hikers and seasoned adventurers.

Rakiura Track, Stewart Island

  • Distance: 32 km (loop track)
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Duration: 3 days / 2 nights (can be done in 2 days)
  • Location: Rakiura National Park, Stewart Island

Discover the wild beauty of Rakiura – Stewart Island on the Rakiura Track, a 32 km circuit that offers an immersive wilderness experience. Walk through ancient podocarp forests, along rugged coastlines, and past historic sites that tell the story of early Aotearoa – New Zealand. The track is famous for its kiwi-spotting opportunities, with the chance to encounter these iconic nocturnal birds in their natural habitat. Under some of the clearest skies in the world, the Rakiura Track is a hidden gem offering tranquillity and adventure.

Keen to explore more? Check out our full Rakiura-Stewart Island travel guide for everything you need to know.

Paparoa Track, Paparoa National Park

  • Distance: 55 km (one way)
  • Difficulty: Intermediate
  • Duration: 2–3 days (walking), 1–2 days (biking)
  • Location: Paparoa National Park, West Coast, South Island

The Paparoa Track, Aotearoa – New Zealand’s newest Great Walk, offers an unforgettable journey through diverse landscapes and rich mining heritage. This 55 km dual-purpose track, designed for both hikers and mountain bikers, traverses alpine tops, lush rainforest, river gorges, and dramatic limestone cliffs. Opened in 2019, the track connects the wild beauty of the West Coast with a story of resilience and innovation, featuring breathtaking vistas, glowworm-lit caves, and the poignant Pike River Memorial site.

Looking for More Than Just Trails?

If you’re planning a hiking adventure in Aotearoa – New Zealand, being prepared is just as important as choosing the right track. From packing smart layers to reading unpredictable weather, our companion guide covers everything you need to know before hitting the trail.
➡️ Read next: Essential Hiking Tips for Aotearoa – New Zealand: Gear, Weather, Food & Safety

5 Fascinating Facts About Hiking in Aotearoa – New Zealand

  1. World-Class Trail Management: Aotearoa was the first country in the world to establish a national park in 1887 — Tongariro National Park — gifted by Māori chief Te Heuheu Tukino IV to protect its sacred peaks.
  2. Unique Wildlife Encounters: Meet the cheeky kea, the world’s only alpine parrot. They’re known to visit hikers… and sometimes pinch your gear. Keep those zips closed!
  3. Rich Cultural Heritage: The Whanganui Journey is part of the Great Walks network — but it’s done by canoe or kayak. A beautiful way to experience Te Awa Tupua, the legally recognised living river.
  4. Unique Accommodation Network: There are over 950 backcountry huts dotted across the country. These rustic shelters offer a unique way to explore remote areas and swap stories with fellow trampers.
  5. Geological Wonders: The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is more than just stunning — it traverses an active volcanic zone, winding between Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe (aka Mount Doom for LOTR fans)

The Memories You’ll Take Home from Hiking in Aotearoa – New Zealand

Hiking in Aotearoa – New Zealand isn’t just about reaching the summit or ticking off trails — it’s about the moments that stay with you. Like the emerald shimmer of a hidden alpine lake in Tongariro, the stillness of sunrise on the Routeburn, the echo of kea calls in the high mountains, or the soft golden light falling over Abel Tasman’s beaches.

It’s the sore legs that turn into stories. The strangers who become trail whānau. The kind of silence that lets you truly hear the land. Whether you’re weaving through native bush or standing alone on a snowy ridge, these walks offer something deeper — connection, clarity, and awe.

These are the memories that linger long after your boots are off.

Whāia te iti kahurangi, ki te tūohu koe, me he maunga teitei

Pursue that which is precious, and do not be deterred by anything less than a lofty mountain