The Best Hiking Trails in New Zealand
Lace up your boots and prepare for some of the most spectacular hiking trails on the planet. Discover some of the best hikes in New Zealand, with our guide.
New Zealand has long been a mecca for hikers, with a diverse range of trails that offer rewarding experiences for all ability levels.
From leisurely one-day hikes to multi-day adventures, whichever hike you choose, you can expect unspoiled wilderness, typified by epic mountain views, volcanic craters, glacial valleys and stunning waterfalls.
Here are some of the best hiking trails in New Zealand, including both one and multi-day adventures.
When is the best time to hike in New Zealand?
For the best hiking conditions, it's recommended you visit New Zealand between October and April. Spring covers the last three months of the year, followed by summer (Dec-Feb) and autumn (Mar to May).
Winter hikes are also possible, but bear in mind the days are shorter. Winter nights spent in the hiking huts can be long, so bring a good book. If you love snow-capped mountains, then a winter visit could be for you.
What gear do I need for hiking in New Zealand?
Needless to say, hiking in New Zealand requires a pair of sturdy, waterproof hiking boots and plenty of layers that you can add or take off depending on the temperature.
Whichever season you're hiking in, it's sensible to take a waterproof rain jacket. Even if the day starts sunny, it may well end very wet; New Zealand weather, like that of the UK, is very changeable.
Best hikes in New Zealand
Tongariro Crossing: Day Hike in the North Island
It's not easy to pin down a 'best day hike' for the North Island, but the Tongariro Crossing is a great contender.
This 12-mile route is challenging but rewarding, taking you past ferns and shrubs, vents, glacial valleys, lava flows and stunning crater lakes.
One of the highlights is the Red Crater, so named for the oxidised iron in its rock, which gives the landscape a wonderful burnt umber glow.
From the Red Crater, you'll get to enjoy fabulous views over the Oturere Valley, Rangipo Desert and Kaimanawa Ranges. Note that it can get rather windy up here, so take care.
Start as early as you can so you can stop and take snaps of the incredible views.
Hooker Valley: Day Hike in the South Island
The Hooker Valley lies in Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand's highest peak, Mount Cook (doubling as Mount Doom in The Lord of the Rings).
Hiking up and then back down the Hooker Valley covers 10km.
As well as affording great up-close views of Mount Cook, you'll see Hooker Lake, complete with icebergs. A summertime dip in this body of water is only recommended if you really need to cool down!
Routeburn Trail through Key Summit: Day Hike in the South Island
This gentler hike is ideal if you're exploring with children.
With epic panoramic views over alpine lakes and mountains, it takes around half a day and starts from Milford Road.
Located in the stunning Fiordland National Park, many people stop off here en-route to Milford Sound by car.
Milford Track: Multi-Day Hike
Outdoor enthusiasts from across the globe undertake the famous Milford Track, widely regarded as one of the best hikes in New Zealand.
Beginning in the low bushline, you progress through lush ferns and beech trees before entering the sub-alpine zone and on towards Milford's snow-capped mountains.
The return route takes you past numerous cascading waterfalls.
Nelson Lakes National Park - Lake Angelus Hut: Multi-Day Hike
This somewhat under-the-radar national park hike culminates in the incredible Lake Angelus Hut and Roberts Ridge (1,650m), affording spectacular mountain views. On a clear day, you can see both the east and west coasts, making it one of the more unique hiking trails in New Zealand.
The lake is usually frozen between May and October.
Lake Angelus Hut features 28 bunks (NZ$30) and is often surrounded by snow – so you may need to dig your way in!
There are no cookers on-site, so bring your own.
This hike takes 2-3 days and is only suitable for expert/advanced hikers.
Other activities to try in New Zealand
New Zealand offers a huge choice of other activities to experience. You might be hiking through a glacial valley in the morning and flying over the same location by helicopter in the afternoon.
Other experiences include swimming with dusky dolphins in Kaikoura, kayaking through Queen Charlotte Sound in the Abel Tasman National Park, jet boating, rafting, canyoning and even glowworm caving.
Top tips for New Zealand hiking
- Improve your fitness so you get the most out of your trip.
- Speak to someone who has hiked in New Zealand before.
- Consider booking through a hiking tour firm to have all your transport and accommodation booked in advance. Many agencies offer hiking tours in New Zealand.
- Always check the weather forecast – and keep checking it before a trek.
- Take a communication device.
- Invest in sturdy hiking footwear.
- Pack a raincoat.
- Bring a first aid kit.
- Take food and water.
- Respect the environment: take your litter home, keep your distance from wildlife, and observe any fire restrictions.
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