New Zealand, often dubbed as the “Adventure Capital of the World,” is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With its diverse landscapes ranging from lush forests to rugged mountains, from serene lakes to volcanic terrains, New Zealand offers some of the most breathtaking trekking experiences on the planet. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner looking to immerse yourself in nature, New Zealand has something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best trekking places in New Zealand that should be on every trekker’s bucket list.
1. Milford Track
Dubbed as the “finest walk in the world,” the Milford Track is perhaps New Zealand’s most famous trekking route. Located in Fiordland National Park, this 53.5 km (33.2 miles) trek takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. The journey begins at Glade Wharf, where you’ll be immersed in lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and pristine rivers. The highlight of the trek is crossing the Mackinnon Pass, where you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The trek ends at the iconic Milford Sound, where towering cliffs and thundering waterfalls create an awe-inspiring finale.
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Duration: 4 days
Best Time to Visit: Late October to April
2. Routeburn Track
The Routeburn Track is another gem in Fiordland National Park, offering a diverse trekking experience that spans across both Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks. This 32 km (19.9 miles) trek takes you through ancient beech forests, alpine meadows, and along the shores of glacial lakes. The views from the Harris Saddle are nothing short of spectacular, with vistas stretching out over the Hollyford Valley and the Darran Mountains. The Routeburn Track is a relatively shorter trek, making it a great option for those who want to experience New Zealand’s wilderness without committing to a longer trek.
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 2-4 days
Best Time to Visit: Late October to April
3. Tongariro Alpine Crossing
For those seeking a trek with a touch of volcanic drama, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a must-do. This 19.4 km (12 miles) trek is often described as New Zealand’s best day hike, and for good reason. Located in Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this trek takes you through a landscape of stark contrasts. You’ll traverse barren lava fields, pass by steaming vents, and marvel at the vividly colored Emerald Lakes. The highlight of the trek is crossing the saddle between Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe, an active volcano famously known as Mount Doom in the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy.
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Duration: 7-8 hours
Best Time to Visit: November to April
4. Abel Tasman Coast Track
For those who prefer coastal scenery, the Abel Tasman Coast Track is the perfect choice. This 60 km (37.2 miles) trek takes you along the stunning coastline of Abel Tasman National Park, where golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush native forests await. The trek is relatively easy, making it accessible to hikers of all skill levels. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to swim in secluded bays, kayak in turquoise waters, and spot wildlife such as seals and dolphins. The Abel Tasman Coast Track is also unique in that you can choose to walk the entire length of the track or do shorter sections, making it a flexible option for all types of adventurers.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration: 3-5 days
Best Time to Visit: October to May
5. Kepler Track
The Kepler Track is a loop track located in Fiordland National Park, offering a mix of forest, mountain, and lake scenery. This 60 km (37.2 miles) trek starts at Lake Te Anau and takes you through a diverse range of environments, from dense beech forests to exposed alpine ridges. The views from the Luxmore Hut and the ridgeline section of the track are simply breathtaking, with sweeping panoramas of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The Kepler Track is a great option for those looking for a moderately challenging trek with a variety of landscapes.
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 3-4 days
Best Time to Visit: Late October to April
6. Heaphy Track
The Heaphy Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, and it’s easy to see why. This 78.4 km (48.7 miles) trek takes you from the rugged West Coast of the South Island to the golden beaches of the Tasman Sea. The track traverses a variety of landscapes, including lush rainforests, tussock-covered plateaus, and the nikau palm-fringed coastline. The Heaphy Track is also rich in history, with ancient Maori pathways and historic gold-mining sites along the way. The trek can be done in either direction, but most hikers start from the West Coast and finish at Kohaihai on the Tasman Sea.
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 4-6 days
Best Time to Visit: May to September
7. Rakiura Track
Located on Stewart Island, the Rakiura Track offers a unique trekking experience in a remote and untouched part of New Zealand. This 32 km (19.9 miles) trek takes you through dense rainforests, along rugged coastlines, and across sandy beaches. The Rakiura Track is also a great place to experience New Zealand’s unique wildlife, including kiwi birds, which are often spotted along the track. The trek can be completed in three days, making it a great option for those looking for a shorter, yet still rewarding, trekking experience.
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 2-3 days
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
8. Mount Taranaki Summit Track
For those looking for a challenging trek with a rewarding summit experience, the Mount Taranaki Summit Track is a great choice. This 6-10 hour trek takes you to the summit of Mount Taranaki, an iconic stratovolcano that dominates the landscape of the North Island. The trek is steep and demanding, but the views from the summit are well worth the effort. On a clear day, you can see as far as Mount Ruapehu and even across to the South Island. The best time to attempt this trek is during the summer months when the weather is more stable, but even then, it’s important to be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
Difficulty: Hard
Duration: 6-10 hours
Best Time to Visit: December to February
9. Whanganui Journey
Although technically a river journey rather than a trek, the Whanganui Journey is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks and offers a unique way to experience the country’s natural beauty. This 145 km (90 miles) canoe trip down the Whanganui River takes you through a landscape of dense forests, steep gorges, and historic Maori sites. The journey can be done in 3-5 days, with campsites and huts available along the way. The Whanganui Journey is a great option for those looking to combine trekking with a bit of adventure on the water.
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 3-5 days
Best Time to Visit: December to March
10. Lake Waikaremoana Track
The Lake Waikaremoana Track is located in Te Urewera, a remote and rugged area of the North Island. This 46 km (28.6 miles) trek takes you around the shores of Lake Waikaremoana, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding forests. The trek passes through dense rainforests, along ridgelines, and across open tussock lands. The Lake Waikaremoana Track is less crowded than some of New Zealand’s other Great Walks, making it a great option for those looking for a more solitary trekking experience.
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 3-4 days
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Conclusion
New Zealand is a trekker’s dream destination, offering a wide range of trekking experiences that cater to all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a challenging multi-day trek through rugged mountains or a leisurely walk along a pristine coastline, New Zealand has something to offer. The country’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique wildlife make trekking in New Zealand an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready to explore some of the best trekking places in New Zealand.