From volcanic peaks in the North to expansive Alps stretching along the entirety of the South Island, New Zealand boasts some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world. Because of this, visitors are instantly drawn outdoors, looking to immerse themselves in the country’s natural beauty. One of the easiest and most affordable ways to do this is on foot and, thankfully, the number of hiking trails on which you can enjoy New Zealand’s scenery are endless. To help you narrow it down, here are eight of the country’s most spectacular day hikes.
The North Island
Mount Tarawera
Just outside of Rotorua, the adventure hub of the North Island, sits Mount Tarawera. Once home to the Pink and White Terraces, you’ll find a handful of trails that take you in and around the volcano. Tarawera Trail, a 5-6 hour tramp (Kiwi term for hike), and Tarawera Outlet to Humphries Bay, a 3 hour expedition, are just a few of the options, depending on the duration and rigor you seek. These hikes meander along the lakes, through the geothermal landscape and provide spectacular views of the volcano responsible for one of the largest eruptions in New Zealand’s history.
While you can certainly appreciate the beauty of the volcano from below, the best way to truly experience Tarawera is by hiking to the top. This requires joining a tour group, such as Kaitiaki but the added expense is well worth it. You’ll work your way up the side of Tarawera, around its cone, and then down into it, a feat that involves walking/jogging/skiing down loose rock. The hike is both scenic and adventurous, the perfect combination.
Mount Taranaki
Another stunning volcanic hike takes you to the summit of Taranaki, a task that requires crossing the crater itself. Considered a dormant volcano and the most perfectly formed in the country, the hike is certainly not for the faint of heart. From start to finish expect to scramble over rocks and to gain over 5,000 feet of elevation. Summiting will take anywhere from 6-8 hours, returning on the same route. You might want to consider bringing crampons as Taranaki’s crater is covered in ice regardless of season.
Distance: 13km – round trip Duration: 7-8 hours Difficulty: Very hard For More Info: doc.govt.nz, Egmont National Park
If you are looking for something less steep, consider one of the hikes around Taranaki. There are plenty, with the most picturesque being the Pouakai Crossing (a shorter version of the otherwise 2-3 day Pouakai Circuit). You can walk in either direction but starting at the Egmont National Park Visitor Centre and ending at Mangorei Road will involve less climbing. The trail, considered “backcountry,” might be rough or muddy but the trek leads you to Pouakai Tarn where, on a sunny day, you can expect to find a nearly perfect reflection of Mount Taranaki in the lake. So be sure to bring your camera!
Distance: 19 km – NOT a loop Duration: 7-9 hours Difficulty: Hard For More Info: doc.govt.nz , Pouakai Crossing
Tongariro Crossing
Probably the most popular day hike on the North Island as it circles two volcanoes, one of which is Ngauruhoe aka, for lovers of Lord of the Rings, Mount Doom. Starting early morning, the first stretch includes wooden platforms and relatively gradual terrain, giving your legs a chance to warm up. As you approach the foot of the volcanoes however, the landscape and incline change and you find yourself surrounded by increasingly steep volcanic rock. Moving up the saddle between Ngauruhoe and Tongariro, you can almost feel the landscape’s desolation. Without trees or vegetation, it is as though you are walking on another planet.
The closer to the top, the harder the climb; but the views from the hike’s peak prove spectacular. From here, you can appreciate both the varying hues of the Red Crater and also the Emerald Lakes, whose green and blue waters burst forth from the otherwise muted terrain. Steam rises from the geothermal pools, adding to the overall mystical ambiance. Then, it is all downhill, through lava flow and forests. Be sure to pause every now and again to look back as you’re likely to have panoramic views of both volcanoes. If you are hoping for a rigorous climb with unique volcanic landscapes, this is it.
Distance: 19.4km – NOT a loop Duration: 5-7 hours Difficulty: Hard For More Info: doc.govt.nz / tongarirocrossing.org.nz
The South Island
Rob Roy Glacier
A Wanaka-based excursion, this tramp takes you into the amazing world of mountains, glaciers, rivers and lakes within Mount Aspiring National Park. After an hour drive through Matukituki Valley on a road that is, for a large stretch, unpaved, you’ll reach Raspberry Creek car park, from where you start the hike. Wandering through farmland, across bridges and amidst beech trees, you’ll follow the Rob Roy stream, a waterway colored turquoise from glacial runoff. In a few hours time, depending on fitness level, you will emerge from the trees, treated to views of the Rob Roy Glacier. Pause to just listen, to the waterfalls cascading below and for calving, when large chunks fall from the glacier. The viewpoint offers the perfect lunch spot but beware of the keas, New Zealand’s mountain parrots. They can and will go after your food!
Distance: 10 km – round trip Duration: 3-4 hours Difficulty: 1200m elevation gain so requires some level of fitness For More Info: doc.govt.nz , stuff.co.nz
Roy’s Peak
A few miles outside the town of Wanaka you’ll find the starting point for Roy’s Peak. The path is exceptionally well maintained, albeit steep, and offers little shade. Walking up, you’ll pass sheep grazing and likely spot numerous rabbits scurrying off the trail as you approach. The higher you climb, the more expansive the views of Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring. Be sure to stop about two thirds of the way to take a small detour out along a ridge. A narrow path leads you to the edge and provides the perfect photo opportunity with the lake and the Alps in the background. At the top, you’ll have 360 degree views which, if you go later in the day, you can enjoy without crowds.
Distance: 16 km – round trip Duration: 5-6 hours Difficulty: Intermediate- 1200m of elevation gain but on a well maintained trail For More Info: doc.govt.nz
Mueller Hut
A hike that brings visitors into the heart of Mount Cook/Aoraki National Park. Considered by many to be the real life stairway to heaven, the first portion of this tramp involves hundreds upon hundreds of steps (there’s an estimated 2,000 in total). Climbing staircase after staircase, you eventually arrive at Sealy Tarns, where, thighs burning, you continue on a dirt track. As you ascend the views only continue to impress, with Mount Cook/Aoraki towering above and Hooker Valley stretching below. Following a considerable scramble up some scree, you reach the skyline ridge from where you catch your first sight of the Mueller Glacier and can enjoy the final stretch to the Mueller Hut, sitting amidst rock and snow. While this tramp is certainly doable in a day, consider spending the night at Mueller Hut. But don’t forget to make a reservation!
Distance: 5.2 km one way/10.4 km round trip Duration: 4 hours one way Difficulty: Difficult For More Info: doc.govt.nz
Routeburn Track
Another great hike for Lord of the Rings fans. Just outside of Glenorchy, about an hour drive from Queenstown, the Routeburn Track takes visitors into truly Middle Earth landscapes. While most often Routeburn is tackled as a multi-day trek, you can do the first stretch in one. This portion takes you through beech forests and along the Routeburn Gorge, through which the aquamarine Routeburn River flows. Make periodic pit stops to listen for the south island robin or jump into the glacially frigid water. Crossing a swing bridge, you’ll find yourself moving through wide open grasslands (definitely a scene in LOTR) from where you’ll have impressive views of the surrounding peaks. After a final ascent back amidst the trees, you’ll reach the Routeburn Falls Hut and have unimpeded views of the valley below and Humboldt Mountains above.
Distance: 17.8 Km – round trip to/from Routeburn Falls Hut Duration: 8 hours – out and back Difficulty: Intermediate For More Info: doc.govt.nz , Routeburn Track, brochure, hut
Ben Lomond
The most ambitious day hike from Queenstown. Starting in the town itself, make your way up through forests of Douglas Fir and alpine shrubs until you emerge at the Ben Lomond Saddle. Here, you can turn right toward Bowen Peak or left to reach the summit. The trail becomes noticeably more difficult and can require scrambling. But, at the top, standing at 1,748m (5,734 ft) above sea level, you’ll have exceptional views in all directions: the Remarkables Mountain Range to the southeast, Walter and Cecil Peaks across Lake Wakatipu to the south, and Moke Lake to the West. Note that a portion of the summit trail passes through private land, so ensure you stay on the marked paths. You can also shorten the hike by taking the Queenstown Gondola up the first section. This will save you around an hour and 400m of elevation gain.
Distance: 1437m of elevation gain (from upper gondola 950m) Duration: 3-4 hrs to the saddle, 6-8 to peak Difficulty: Hard For More Info: doc.govt.nz
When to Go
Most of these hikes are best in summer months. While you can summit some in winter, the tramps become far more complicated and technical. And don’t forget, if you’re traveling from the Northern hemisphere, the seasons are opposite, so summer runs December – March!
How to Get There
The start of these treks are all accessible by car. There are often shuttle busses or taxis available to transport you to trailheads. Tour companies and hotels can also help organize transportation if you do not have an automobile. Note whether the hike is an out-and-back or not, as that will impact whether you need an additional car.
What to Bring
- Plenty of water and SPF. The New Zealand sun is exceptionally strong.
- Wind and water layers. Weather can change instantly so additional clothing will ensure you stay adequately warm and dry.
- Snacks, particularly on the longer hikes.
Don’t Forget
The accessibility of each hike changes depending on the season and weather. Check the Department of Conservation website to find up-to-date conditions and closures.
If you find yourself exploring the entirely of the South Island, be sure to also visit Kaikoura or Franz Josef. Both towns offer amazing excursions.
