If there’s a place in this world that feels like it was created for hiking and great walks, it’s New Zealand. There’s the Te Araroa which literally takes you on a 6-month track from the northern to the southern tip of the country. 

But there are also a lot of New Zealand walks that only take a few hours and are easy, others are day hikes and even great multi-day hikes (some can also be done guided if you prefer to sleep in more luxury and carry less baggage).

Asking other bloggers about their favourite new Zealand walks, I received some obvious and some surprising answers. What I do know, however: If you love walking and hiking, you will love these suggestions.

NEW ZEALAND WALKS AND HIKES YOU WILL LOVE

16.3km 

8 Hours

The Cape Brett Track has to be the most rewarding hike in Northland.  While you can expect spectacular views you will not be treated to an easy stroll through the forest.  This full-day hike or two-day return trip will require an above-average level of fitness due to its challenging nature.  There is a 23-bed hut at Cape Brett which was once the lightkeepers house. The track passes through private Māori land and you will need to purchase a permit beforehand.  You can do this and book the hut through the Department of Conservation website or at the iSite Visitors Centre in Pahia.  

The Cape Brett track starts near the beautiful Oke Bay in Rawhiti.  The trail is well-formed and marked but undulating with steep climbs and descents. Approximately two-thirds of the way into the hike you will come to a detour that leads to Deep Water Cove.  This is a one-hour return trip and a great place to stop for lunch and a swim. From here you can expect another challenging 2-3 hours to the Cape Brett Lighthouse and Hut. This final section of the track has steep drop-offs and may not suit those with a fear of heights.  If you do not wish to stay at the hut or do the return trip on foot you can pre-organise to be picked up by a water taxi from the hut or Deep Water Cove.

Hiked by Karllie from Yolo Solo Travel

Mount Maunganui is situated on a peninsula and is a popular beachside holiday spot with white sand beaches on one side and Pilot bay and the port on the other.

At the end of the Peninsula stands the sacred mountain of Mauao meaning ‘caught by the dawn’

Mauao ‘an extinct volcano’ is only 232m tall and while the walk up won’t test too many people’s hiking ability it is one of New Zealand’s popular hikes for locals and tourists alike. As we live here it’s certainly a favourite activity for the family.

There are two trail options to choose from. The first is a more gentle stroll around the base. There you find most people wandering along, coffee in hand, chatting away with friends or family. 

The second is the walk to the top, this takes around 30-40 minutes with a mixture of stairs and walkways. While the start of the walk is out in the open the final part is amongst the flora. You’ll also find lots of fitness fanatics running up and down. Splendid views of the coastline, surrounding townships, outer islands and the port awaits those who reach the top.

Hiked by Scott from 4 Degrees Of Destination

The Pinnacles Walk seems to be more of a Kiwi favourite but just because it’s not on the map of every tourist it doesn’t mean it’s any less picturesque.

Drive all the way to the end of the Kauaeranga Valley Road, past the DOC campsites, and you’ll find the start of the walk.

The first part follows the river bed and gives you the false impression that this walk is going to be easy as. Soon after, the incline starts and won’t stop until you reach the top. That being said, the Pinnacles Walk isn’t very technical or difficult to find. It just has a whole lot of (historical) stairs and a bit of clambering towards the summit. The view’s well worth it, though.

The Pinnacles Walk can be done as a day hike or you can stay at New Zealand’s biggest DOC hut. The hike’s 7km each way and, done as a day trip, will take you approximately 6 hours. 

Hiked by Alex of Discover Aotearoa

Located in the centre of the North Island, Tongariro Alpine Crossing is not only an amazing day hike but one of my favourite experiences from my entire New Zealand trip. To best position yourself for the trek, stay in the lakeside town of Taupo, make the one-hour the drive to Ketetahi (where a so-called "Tongariro Shuttle" will drive you to the start of the track, in Mangatepopo) before dawn if possible.  

As for the trek itself, it stretches for just under 20 km, and takes between 5-7 hours, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop for pictures. The highlight of the trek occurs about 2-3 hours in when you crest the steepest ridge and begin descending toward the aptly-named Emerald Lakes. At this point, if it's a very clear day, you might even be able to see all the way to Lake Taupo!  

Speaking of weather, you should keep in mind that conditions along the Tongariro Alpine Crossing can change quickly. Dress in layers (including a waterproof one) in order to avoid getting too hot, cold or wet!

Hiked by Rob from Leave Your Daily Hell

The Tama Lakes Track is an off the beaten path alternative to the Tongariro Crossing. It's nowhere near as crowded and has plenty of highlights. The highlights are Taranaki Falls, both Upper and Lower Tama Lakes, Mount Ruapehu, and Mount Ngauruhoe. And we haven't mentioned the landscape which is stunning itself and on a warm day, the mirages in the distances will boggle your mind.

The hike from the trailhead to the Lower Tama Lakes is on a gradual incline, with very minimal stairs. The path is well maintained so as long as you have the fitness (remember, you're about 1000 metres above sea level) you'll make it to here with no problems.

The final 1km to the upper lake viewpoint is a lot harder with a steady climb on a path marked only by the people who have gone before you. Some may find comfort in staying at the bottom but I say go for it, the photo paints a thousand words.

The total incline for the walk is 500-600 metres and will take most people somewhere between 4.5 and 6 hours to do.

Hiked by Jub from Chur New Zealand

The Pouakai Tarns of Mount Taranaki is without a doubt one of the best hikes in New Zealand. The variety of sites along the way, hut near the finish, and that gorgeous view at the end all add up to make this hike an absolutely stunning experience.

The Pouakai Tarns hike starts from one of 2 locations. The first and best option is to drive to the end of Mangorei Road. From here, the Pouakai Tarns hike is 8.6 miles round trip and takes you up a winding path right towards Mount Taranaki. The hike itself is challenging but worth it. You can also reach the Pouakai Tarns starting at the North Egmont Visitor Centre, however, this trail will be longer and not as pretty. 

The hike takes you through the New Zealand bush, where you'll have the chance to spot birds and small animals as you make your way up. After a while, you'll come to the Pouakai Hut, which means you are SO close to the Pouakai Tarns. Stop at the hut either before or after you see the Tarns, enjoy a picnic and rest your feet before the hike down.

Note: You can even book an overnight in the hut if you are keen to do that!

Past the hut, the hike is wide open, and you'll have a stunning view of Mount Taranaki along the path. The Pouakai Tarns themselves are relatively small, however, what is so incredible is that they make for the perfect foreground for Mount Taranaki. On a calm day, the Tarns waters reflect Taranaki, doubling the view and making this a jaw-dropping photo opportunity. Sit down, put your feet up, and enjoy this view for as long as you'd like before tackling the return hike.

Hiked by Zach & Julie Ruhl from Ruhls Of The Road

A trek on the Mount Taranaki Summit Track is not for the faint of heart, but it is an adventure to experience if you love astounding views and the feeling of tranquillity and awe. There is plenty of this to be found in New Zealand but Taranaki tops the list. 

This 2,518-meter lone pinnacle shoots upwards from the west coast of the North Island and is one of the many active volcanoes in New Zealand.  

Starting at Taranaki National Park Visitors Center trekkers should prepare for a 6.3 km one-way track with 1.6 km elevation gain! Estimated climb times state 5–6 hr up and 3–4 hr down and the track should only be attempted between January and March when the path is free of snow and ice.  

In order to ascend the summit, trekkers face a variety of terrains and trail types including dense forests, scree shale fields, and steep lava tracks. Trekking poles, sturdy trekking shoes, and plenty of food and water are recommended.  

Summiting Mt. Taranaki provides trekkers with incredible views of expansive national parks, forestlands, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt. Ruapehu in the distance - both over 200 km away. Trekkers will literally feel like they’re truly on top of the world.

Ashley and Nick of ImpactWinder

The Paekakariki Escarpment hike is one of the most beautiful coastal walks in Wellington.  With views over Kapiti Island and out towards the South Island, it’s a breathtaking hike that won't be forgotten easily.

The Escarpment walk is not too difficult but reasonable fitness is advised.  There are a lot of stairs at the Paekakariki end of the track, so be warned. The track itself only climbs a few hundred metres but is undulating so you will cover more elevation gain than this. As you traverse along the cliffside of Paekakariki Hill you will climb stairs, go through bush and the highlight (besides the views) is crossing two epic swing bridges. 

The 10km track takes about 3-4 hours to traverse and runs from Paekakariki to Pukerua Bay.  While out of Wellington City itself, it is easy to get to as it is well linked to the Wellington train system.  Those without private vehicles can take a train to either station, complete the walk and train back to the city, all on a day pass.

Please note: This track is not for those who suffer from vertigo or struggled with heights.

Hiked by Jennifer from Backyard Travel Family

The Abel Tasman coast track is a stunning 60 km hike through some of the most beautiful scenery in New Zealand. Located in the Nelson/Tasman region on the northern shores of the South Island. The entire hike takes between 2 and 5 days but parts of it can be accomplished in as little as a few hours. Most people take an average of 3 – 5 days to complete the hike and this is what the Doc brochure recommends. There are plenty of campsites to choose from and well-maintained huts along the trail. There are also water taxi and kayak options throughout the park. 

The coast track is one of the easiest hiking tracks in New Zealand as it is well signposted, kept in good condition and maintained regularly. The track is wide enough for two people most of the time and there are hardly any hills and plenty of rest spots. It is one of the best hikes for breathtaking views of crystal clear waters, golden sandy beaches, amazing rock structures and lush beech forest. Oh and seals! The seals can be easily seen on Tonga Island (access by water taxi or kayak) or, at Separation Point at the northern end of the track.  

Hiked by Lee-Ann from Be Free With Lee

It might not make it to the top of many New Zealand bucket lists but the small town of Hanmer Springs, situated just 90 minutes from Christchurch should be a must-visit on any south island itinerary. Known for its legendary healing springs, top-notch ski resort and heaps of fantastic hiking trails, the alpine town punches far above its weight class. 

And definitely one of the top things to do in Hanmer Springs (beyond languishing in those lovely spa pools of course), is hiking up Conical Hill. It’s a pretty convenient trek – just head up the main street of the town and you’ll find yourself at the clearly signposted start of this renowned trail.   

This popular hike offers the best viewpoint over the town and a lovely, shaded walk – perfect particularly on a hot summers day. You’ll find yourself admiring the towering giant fir trees, Japanese cypress and western hemlock trees on what is a moderate tramp: only 3km return on good dirt trails and terrain but a slightly steep climb with a number of switchbacks as you clamber up the hill. The final result? 360-degree sweeping views across the forests and the village laid below; well worth the effort on what is usually only an hour-long journey. 

Hiked by James from The Travel Scribes

The Godley Head Walk is a family-favourite in Christchurch City. Officially listed as being a Moderate/Intermediate level walk, it’s fairly easy to navigate with only a few steep sections along the undulating track. The walk can be started at the southern end of Sumner Beach, making it a half-day 13.5km adventure. Or you can park at the smaller Taylor’s Mistake beach around the bend, which reduces it to an easier 8km loop (2-3 hour walk). The track leads you around a craggy headland while dishing up incredible views over the cliffs and ocean. Its remote position makes it the ideal place to spot the region’s native birds, including the local white-flippered penguin! But birds aren’t the only highlight, keep your eyes towards the ocean and you may be rewarded with a dolphin or whale sighting… The path also cuts through an active farm, so watch out for adorable lambs come spring, and be sure to shut the gates as you go. Other attractions that’ll keep your attention during the walk include poignant remnants from WW2, caves that are ripe for exploring, the historic Scott’s Cabin (that rather famously made it to Antarctica and back) and a side trip to Boulders Beach with its cute beach huts.

Hiked by Nadine from Christchurch Uncovered

If you're looking for the most scenic hikes in New Zealand, you have to add the Mount John Summit Track to your list. There are different options for this hike, I recommend starting with the steeper part of the hike to climb straight to Mount John Summit, and then walking down via the lakeshore trail.

This way you will be walking surrounded by beautiful forest on the way up, and when you reach the summit the beauty of the view will amaze you. The view over the bright turquoise water of Lake Tekapo, surrounded by snowy capped mountains, is for me, what makes it one of the best hikes in New Zealand.

The overall hike takes is 8.2km and takes around 3 hours. The initial section through the wood is quite steep, but the trail is well beaten and easy to walk along. After the summit the walk down via the lake trail has a more gradual incline. You can peacefully walk down without rushing, taking in the view as you go along.

Hiked by Greta of Greta’s Travels 

The Tasman Glacier and Blue Lakes Walk is the perfect easy roadside hike in New Zealand.  The entire hike up to the lakes is only 1.15 miles and you’ll only need an hour or two for this, depending on how much time you spend at the top.  There is a well-worn gravel trail, so it’s easy to follow. The Blue Lakes are about halfway to the top, but the real draw is all the way up.

It’s a mostly easy hike, but there are some stairs up to the glacier view.  They are absolutely worth it though. To get here, you’ll be driving through Tasman Valley the hiking up to look out over it.  The Blue Lakes are actually a little green now, but the glacial lake up at the top is as blue as can be. On the far left, you’ll see the Tasman Glacier, the longest glacier in New Zealand, though it has shrunk since the 1990s.  In the lake, you’ll see some icebergs milling about. This is an awesome hike if you’re looking for something short or for something to break up a long drive.

Hiked by Megan from Red Around The World

Mount Cook, on the South Island of New Zealand, is the highest mountain in the country. From a distance, he looks like painted, modeled, fake and surreal. One of the best things to do on Aoraki, as Mount Cook is called in the Maori language, is a hike. But not just any hike, but a glacier hike on the Tasman Glacier. However, it is not so easy to get up there, as you can only get on the glacier by helicopter. The approach with beautiful views of Mount Cook National Park is simply spectacular. On a sunny day, the glacial ice is so white that it hurts your eyes. The helicopters drop you off on the ice and the glacier hike begins. Since you are not allowed to do this hike alone, there is always a guide who will instruct you before departure. For example about how to use the spikes and what else to look out for. You always walk in line behind the others and have to pay attention to the person in front. It goes down in glacier caves and across crevasses. The circular route over the glacier takes around two hours for only about 1,5 km and a lot of climbing and stops on the way, depending on the weather, before the helicopter is visible again on the horizon. A real adventure, but also a hike for everyone.

Hiked by Clemens from Travellers Archive

The Mueller Hut hike is named for the nearby 'Mueller Glacier', and is located in the Mount Cook National Park on New Zealand's South Island. Beginning at the White Horse Hill Campsite, the track is approximately 5.2 kilometres each way, the elevation is around 1000 feet, and there are over 2000 stairs (apparently, though not sure who has counted them), some of which are uneven. This is not a hike for the faint-hearted!

It can be done in a day - though be aware of weather conditions and daylight hours. Orange sticks guide the path and provide some relief when visibility isn't so clear. 

Alternatively, you have the option to spend a night at the aforementioned 'Mueller's Hut', which sleeps 28 people, and has a communal kitchen for use, as well as some bathrooms (please note, these are basic!). There is also the option to camp nearby, if you don't fancy bunking down with strangers. These options need to be booked in advance and can be very popular during certain months. 

The route takes you past beautiful lakes, waterfalls, glaciers and New Zealand's highest peaks. Once at the hut, there is the option to climb slightly higher to the 'true summit', though the 360-degree views from the hut are the best. Though tough, the views on this hike are breathtaking (or was that the 2000 stairs?) and with the added option to stay in the hut, this whole experience is an adventure not to be missed.

Hiked by Jenna from I know The Pilot

Lake Hayes is a small lake in the Wakatipu Basin in Central Otago. It’s a 15 minutes drive from Queenstown and a five-minute drive from Arrowtown. The eight-kilometre scenic loop wraps around the tranquil and beautiful lake. On windless days the magnificent scenery is reflected on the water. Craggy mountains including the Remarkables mountain range and Coronet Peak provide a magnificent backdrop, especially in the winter when they are snow-clad. 

The attraction of this walk is the varying terrain and vegetation. A boardwalk over wetlands provides closeup viewing of birdlife. Several historic cottages are dotted around the lake, as well as a large lakeside recreational area at the northern end. Notable lake-side properties provide for interesting scrutiny on the western leg of the walk. 

The eight-kilometre hike is easy making it suitable for all ages and levels of fitness. It can be achieved in two-three hours. The walking track can be accessed from a number of points including The Lake Hayes Pavilion on SH 6 or North Lake Hayes picnic area off Arrowtown Road.

Hiked by Jane from Blog The Globe

New Zealand has a lot of outstanding hikes to offer, but my absolute favourite one is Earnslaw Burn. This hike is about 25 kilometres long and classed as difficult, so be prepared for a full day. If you don’t feel like walking that far in one single day, you could even bring a tent and stay the night. It’ll be a breathtaking view to wake up to! 

After hours on the trail in the forest, you’ll finally make it to a magical valley full of waterfalls and a gorgeous glacier. Some people fly in here by helicopter to take their wedding photos, that’s how beautiful it is! 

The trail is mostly well marked, but occasionally you’ll have to climb over obstacles, such as trees, or jump over rivers. Bring good shoes or even hiking boots, it’s very muddy.

Earnslaw Burn is not only one of the most stunning hikes I’ve ever done, but it’s also a filming location from The Hobbit - if you’re a fan of the movies, you’ll probably be even more excited about heading out on this hike!

Hiked by Amanda from My Backpacker Life

A relatively unknown hike near Queenstown in New Zealand is Lake Alta. Department of Conservation indicates it as an ‘Advanced Tramping Track’ however as an experienced tramper, I actually found the drive up more challenging than the hike itself.Lake Alta is a glacial lake up in The Remarkables. The trailhead is located behind The Remarkables ski field where there’s a giant parking lot. The first bit of the hike follows the skifield road and after about half an hour you’ll leave the wide trail and head straight up for about 15-20 minutes on a narrow trail through some wetland areas. It’s marked however when I visited the markings weren’t always clear. It’s hard to miss the end of the trail though as there will be other people most likely.

From the lake, you can scramble up a bit further to various viewing points, but none of those scrambles is marked, you’ll have to rely on your own creativity. The way back is down the same way and the total hiking time will be around 1.5 to 2 hours. This was definitely my favorite hike in the Queenstown area so do check it out! 

Hiked by Antonette of We12Travel

New Zealand hikes don't get much more iconic than Roys Peak. It's known as being one of the best viewpoints in New Zealand, but what's the walk to the top like? Well, it's basically straight up for 2-3 hours and if you do it in the dark like we did it can get a bit boring (and it's relatively hard). Hiking up in the early hours will allow you to see Roys Peak at sunrise, by far the best time to visit.

Once at the top you'll see right over the Wanaka region and its surrounding mountains. It's more than worth the early start and the effort of walking so far uphill. You can obviously do it during the day too, but it'll be hotter and more crowded. All up the hike should take you 5-6 hours and requires a decent level of fitness (although you could still struggle up it if you're lacking in the fitness department as long as you take your time). The track mostly follows an old 4WD road, so it’s definitely not technical, just a bit steep!

Hiked by Jon from See The South Island

Milford Track is the most beautiful trek in New Zealand’s South Island and some people consider it the best trek in the world! This is a 4 days trek for a total distance of 54km, combining rainforest, alpine mountains, and valleys with waterfalls. The trek finishes at Milford sound, which is a great way to finish this epic adventure.

The trek is limited to 40 independent walkers a day so permits are sold out as soon as they are open. With the permit, it is necessary to book all the huts, the boat to the starting point and the cruise along Milford Sound and back to the civilization.

Milford Track is not a difficult walk but hikers need to be ready to carry everything - clothes, sleeping bag and food for 4 days - in their backpacks. Sturdy boots, rain clothes, and trekking poles are recommended.

All the hikers are staying in the same hut, with an independent module for cooking and eating which means that you are always walking with the same people during the whole trek which is great for meeting people!

Milford Track implies planning everything with many months in advance but it is a fantastic experience that I recommend to all the hikers.

Hiked by Elisa from World in Paris

Length: 60 km, 3-4 days

Difficulty: Intermediate

Kepler Track is a loop track, which is one of the famous New Zealand Great Walks. It’s a multiday hike and if you plan to go there in the Great Walk season, you will need to book huts in advance at DOC sites. Kepler Track is great for its diversity: the first part leads along the shore of Lake Te Anau, which is followed by a climb to the Luxmore Hut, where the most beautiful part of the trek starts. There are spectacular views of the mountains and lakes all the way from Luxmore Hut to Hanging Valley Shelter. You will probably meet Kea parrots there (the world’s only alpine parrot) – be careful and watch your stuff, they are clever and curious. Never feed them!

Once you descend the mountain range, the track goes through the podocarp forest. The last section from Moturau Hut takes you to the wetlands. Some people choose to finish at the Rainbow Reach, but you can continue 9,5 km more to Kepler Track Shelter to make a full 60 km loop.

Most people usually spend 2 nights (3 days) on the whole track, which is quite a pleasant option. Somebody, who prefers to walk fewer kilometres per day, might stay 3 nights. In case you only have one night for Kepler Track, go the highest point of the track (maybe a little bit further) and come back to spend a night at Luxmore Hut.

Hiked by Adriana from Czech The World

Looking for more New Zealand hiking and biking inspiration?

• Rotorua has an abundance of short and longer walking tracks. Read more about them here!

• Auckland is not just New Zealand’s biggest city but also has a lot of great walks. How about a trip to Rangitoto Island or explore the suburbs on the Coast To Coast Walk?

• Is biking more your thing? Then how about these stunning New Zealand cycle trails?