New Zealand's Great Walks

New Zealand’s Great Walks are a set of multi-day hikes that take you through some of the country’s better-known landscapes. They’re looked after by the Department of Conservation (DOC) and are a good pick if you want clear trails, basic but comfortable huts, and routes that are well planned out.

There are ten tracks altogether (with a secret eleventh in the process), spread between the North and South Islands. They’re not necessarily tougher than other hikes around New Zealand, but they’re more structured and easier to plan, which helps if you’re new to tramping or just want to know what to expect. Here's our guide to the Great Walks. 

1. Milford Track

The Milford Track is a 33-mile (53.5 km) hike through Fiordland National Park, and it’s one of the most well-known in the country. The trail leads you through rainforest that feels ancient, along clear rivers and lakes, and beneath waterfalls—including Sutherland Falls, which drops about 1,900 feet (580 m). You’ll also cross alpine passes with snow-covered peaks on either side before descending to sea level at Milford Sound.

Because of how fragile the environment is, numbers on the trail are limited. Everyone hikes it one way, over four days, and stays in a set series of DOC huts. That helps protect the track and gives you a quieter, more immersive experience.

How to hike this route

The trail starts at Glade Wharf on Lake Te Anau. You can only reach it by boat from Te Anau Downs, which is about a 30-minute drive from the town of Te Anau. The walk ends at Sandfly Point, near Milford Sound.

Since it’s not a loop, you’ll need to book transport at both ends for your New Zealand itinerary. Boat transfers and shuttle buses are easy enough to arrange, but it’s best to do that early—especially during peak season. 

You’ll also need to reserve your spot in the huts well in advance through the DOC. There are three overnight huts: Clinton, Mintaro, and Dumpling. Each one has bunks with mattresses, cooking facilities, and basic toilets, but you’ll bring your own gear, including a sleeping bag and food.

When to visit

The Great Walks season runs from late October to late April. During this time, the huts are serviced, and the bridges are in place. 

December and January get the longest days, but they’re also the busiest. If you're wondering how to plan a trip to New Zealand when there are fewer people on the track, early November can be a good time for spring flowers, and late March into April tends to be quieter with autumn color.

2. Routeburn Track

The Routeburn Track is a 20-mile (32 km) trail that connects Fiordland and Mount Aspiring national parks. You’ll get alpine views pretty quickly, with the landscape shifting from dense beech forests to subalpine scrub and open tussock ridgelines. 

The highest point is Harris Saddle at 4,120 feet (1,255 m), where you’re surrounded by sharp peaks and big skies (easily one of the best places to visit in New Zealand). Along the way, you’ll pass emerald-blue lakes, glacial valleys, and plenty of waterfalls.

Even though it’s a high-alpine walk, the Routeburn can be done in two to three days, and it’s often seen as a good introduction to New Zealand’s backcountry. It’s not as remote as some of the other Great Walks, but you’ll still feel like you’re out there.

How to hike this route

You can walk the Routeburn in either direction. The trailheads are the Routeburn Shelter near Glenorchy (about 45 minutes from Queenstown) and The Divide on the Milford Road (around 53 miles/85 km from Te Anau). 

Most people spend two nights on the track and stay at the Routeburn Falls and Lake Mackenzie huts, though there’s also Lake Howden Hut near the Divide if you need a flexible third option. Huts need to be booked in advance. Since it’s not a loop, you’ll need to arrange transport. 

When to visit

Most New Zealand travel experts will say that the main season is late October to late April. February and March usually have the most reliable weather, though conditions in alpine areas can change quickly year-round. In November, you might still see snow near Harris Saddle, which adds some atmosphere—but also means extra care is needed. 

The Routeburn’s easy access from Queenstown makes it popular during school holidays, so if you’re looking for a quieter walk, aim for shoulder season or midweek departures.

3. Kepler Track

The Kepler Track is a 37-mile (60 km) loop that was purpose-built in the 1980s to make the most of Fiordland’s landscapes. Instead of following an old route, it was laid out to give you a bit of everything—lake shores, dense forest, alpine ridgelines, and glacier-carved valleys—all in one go.

The highlight for most hikers is the stretch between Luxmore Hut and Iris Burn Valley. Here, the trail hugs the tops of the mountains with steep drop-offs on both sides. You get sweeping views across Lake Te Anau and out to the Murchison Mountains. Every day of this trek brings with it a different landscape.

How to hike this route

The track starts and ends near Te Anau, just 3 miles (5 km) from town. You can walk to the Kepler Track car park or drive. 

Most people hike clockwise, staying at Luxmore, Iris Burn, and Moturau huts over 3 to 4 days. During the New Zealand Great Walks season, huts must be booked well in advance through the Department of Conservation (DOC).

When to visit

The alpine sections are very exposed, so weather is a big factor. January and February usually have the most stable conditions, with less snow or wind and are the best time to go to New Zealand for this trip. In spring—October and November—you’re more likely to hit bad weather, and the ridgeline can be dangerous in low visibility or high winds. Because the Kepler is so close to town, it’s popular with locals on holiday weekends, so going mid-week can be quieter. 

4. Abel Tasman Coast Track

The Abel Tasman Coast Track runs for 37 miles (60 km) through the northern part of New Zealand’s South Island, following a coastline of golden beaches, forested headlands, and clear turquoise water. It’s one of the more relaxed New Zealand Great Walks, and it’s easy to break up or customize. You can walk the whole track, hike just part of it, kayak certain sections, or take water taxis between beaches.

Along the way, you’ll pass tidal inlets and forest trails, with chances to see wildlife like fur seals, little blue penguins, and native birds.

Highlights include the gentle sweep of Anchorage Bay and the well-known Split Apple Rock. It’s a good idea to pack light—especially if you’re hiking multiple days—and to plan around the tides, since a few crossings are only possible at low tide.

How to hike this route

The track runs between Marahau in the south and Wainui in the north. Most people start from Marahau, which is easy to reach by shuttle from Nelson or Motueka. 

The full walk takes 3 to 5 days and requires bookings for DOC huts or campsites. If you’re not doing the whole track, water taxis can get you to and from different beaches. The trail is well-marked with yellow signs and has plenty of access points along the coast.

When to visit Abel Tasman

December through March usually brings warm weather and good swimming conditions, but this is also when the track is busiest. November and April can be a nice balance—fewer people but still mild temperatures. 

Keep in mind that tidal crossings—like at Awaroa Inlet—need to be timed carefully, as they can’t be crossed at high tide, no matter the season. 

5. Tongariro Northern Circuit

The Tongariro Northern Circuit is a 27-mile (43 km) loop that takes you through some of the wildest volcanic terrain in the central North Island. It circles Mount Ngauruhoe—also known as Mount Doom if you’re familiar with The Lord of the Rings—and includes a stretch of the well-known Tongariro Alpine Crossing but slows things down so you can take more of it in.

You’ll walk past steaming vents, rust-colored craters, old lava fields, and vivid emerald-colored lakes. The trail also passes through beech forests and open valleys stained with mineral runoff. If the weather holds, you’ll get wide views of Mount Ruapehu and Mount Tongariro. After rain, the vents really stand out against the sky. This is one of the best things to do in New Zealand.

How to hike this route

You’ll start at Whakapapa Village, near the Chateau Tongariro. The track forms a loop, so you can walk it clockwise or counter-clockwise—it doesn’t really matter. Most people take 3 to 4 days to do the full circuit. There are regular shuttles from Taupō, National Park Village, and Ohakune, so getting there isn’t too complicated.

 An important New Zealand travel tip is to book the DOC huts in advance, especially in summer. The most demanding stretch is the Alpine Crossing section, with a fair bit of climbing and some steep descents. Weather can change quickly up here, even in summer, so bring proper alpine gear and be ready for anything.

When to visit Tongariro

Late November through April tends to bring more stable conditions. Summer (December to February) has the longest days, but also the most foot traffic. Higher parts of the trail can still have snow in early summer. Winter (June to September) isn’t recommended unless you’re experienced with alpine conditions.
 

6. Whanganui Journey

The Whanganui Journey is a bit different from the rest of the New Zealand Great Walks—this one’s done by canoe or kayak. It follows about 90 miles (145 km) of the Whanganui River through remote terrain, with steep bush-covered cliffs and quiet stretches of water that wind through deep gorges.

Along the way, you’ll paddle past places tied to both Māori history and early European settlement. There’s the Bridge to Nowhere, tucked into the forest, and Tieke Kāinga, an active marae where you might have the chance to learn more about the area’s significance. If you’re lucky, you might spot or hear the whio, the rare blue duck that lives along the river.

How to navigate this route

Most people start from Taumarunui or Whakahoro and finish at Pipiriki. It usually takes 3 to 5 days, depending on where you begin. Local operators in Taumarunui and Whanganui can help with rentals and transport to and from the river.

You don’t need previous paddling experience to do this trip, but knowing basic water safety is important. The upper river has some small rapids (Grade 1–2), and it gets calmer downstream. It’s still a wilderness trip, so you’ll want to book huts or campsites in advance and be ready to go a while without phone reception.

When to visit Whanganui

October through April is the best time to go. Summer (December to March) usually brings the best weather, but spring (September to November) can have good river levels and fewer people. Heavy rain in the area can make the river move faster—or in drier periods, you might have to drag your canoe a bit in shallow sections. 

Which should you choose? North or South Island in New Zealand: which is best.

7. Lake Waikaremoana Track

This 28.5-mile (46-kilometer) track loops through dense forest and hugs the edge of Lake Waikaremoana in Te Urewera. The name means “sea of rippling waters,” and it really does feel remote out here. You’ll move through thick podocarp forest, climb to wide lake views from Panekire Bluff, and pass by places like Korokoro Falls.

The route follows traditional pathways of the Tūhoe people. You’ll likely hear native birds like the kākā and North Island robin—especially in the quieter stretches.

How to hike this route

The track curves around the lake in a kind of half-circle, starting at Onepoto and ending at Hopuruahine Landing. Most people kick things off at Onepoto, since it gets the steepest climb—up to Panekire Bluff—done early.

There are five huts along the way, all run by DOC, and you’ll need to book them in advance—camping isn’t allowed. It usually takes 3 to 4 days to walk the full track. If needed, there’s a water taxi on the lake, which can help with transport or shaving off a section if you're short on time.

When to visit Lake Waikaremoana

You’ll get the best weather between October and April. Summer (December–February) is warm enough to swim, while spring and autumn (October–November and March–April) tend to be quieter, with mist hanging over the lake in the mornings. Rain’s common any time of year, which keeps the forest lush. 

8. Heaphy Track

This 48.5-mile (78-kilometer) walk stretches from Golden Bay to the West Coast and moves through several completely different landscapes. You’ll start out in beech forest, head across tussock-covered highlands, then descend through groves of nikau palms before reaching the rough coastline.

The track is known for its range of native plants and animals. You might hear a great spotted kiwi at night and, if you’re lucky, see a Powelliphanta snail—the ones that eat worms. The route has been used for a long time, originally as part of Māori pounamu (greenstone) trading trails.

How to hike this route

The walk runs between Brown Hut near Collingwood and Kohaihai Shelter near Karamea. You can go in either direction, and most people take 4 to 6 days. There are seven DOC huts along the way.
Transport to the trailheads takes some planning, since they’re quite far apart. Shuttle services are available from nearby towns. Between May and November, mountain bikes are allowed, and some people choose to ride instead of hike.

When to visit the Heaphy Track

You can do this walk any time of year. In summer (December–February), the days are longer and the coast is warm enough for a swim. Winter (May–September) brings clear skies, fewer people, and access for mountain biking. If you’re walking in autumn, around April or May, look out for nikau palms fruiting—native birds tend to be more active around then.

Weather on the West Coast can be wet and unpredictable, so rain gear is a must no matter when you go.

9. Paparoa Track

This 34-mile (55-kilometer) trail runs across the west coast of the South Island and links up Blackball with Punakaiki. It’s one of the few New Zealand Great Walks built specifically for both hikers and mountain bikers. You move through lush rainforest, exposed limestone cliffs, and open ridgelines with long views toward the Tasman Sea. It’s a newer track—opened in 2019—so the huts are modern, and the route was planned with comfort and access in mind.

There’s also a short but meaningful side trip to the Pike River Mine memorial, which commemorates the lives lost in the 2010 mining disaster. You’ll also pass through forest that was flattened by Cyclone Ita in 2014—those areas are now full of fast-growing native bush, and it’s striking to see how much has changed.

How to hike this route

The track connects two trailheads: Smoke-ho car park near Blackball on the eastern end and the Pororari River car park just outside Punakaiki on the west. 

You can walk it in either direction, and most people take 2 to 3 days. There are two DOC huts on the trail, both with 20 bunks. Since it’s become popular, it’s a good idea to book your hut spots early. Shuttle services run to both ends of the trail, so transport isn’t too tricky to figure out.

When to visit the Paparoa Track

The track is open all year, but the months from October through April usually see the most settled weather. Winter (June–August) can be beautiful too—clear days are common—but there’s a chance of snow or ice on the higher sections. If it’s just rained, expect more water in the creeks and waterfalls, which changes the feel of the trail. 

10. Rakiura Track

If you want to experience Stewart Island at a slow, steady pace, the Rakiura Track is a good way to do it. It loops for about 20 miles (32 kilometers) through quiet forest, past empty beaches, and into bushland that hasn’t changed much in decades. 

It’s a bit more low-key than other New Zealand Great Walks, which means fewer people and a better chance of seeing wildlife—especially kiwi, since they’re known to wander around during the day here.

The track also cuts through some old tramway routes from Stewart Island’s logging days. It’s not a tough walk, but the mud can be real in some sections, so good boots help.

How to hike this route

You’ll need to get to Oban first, either by ferry from Bluff or a quick flight. From there, it’s about a 3-mile (5-kilometer) walk or short shuttle ride to Lee Bay, where the loop starts and ends. It usually takes 3 days, and you can go in either direction. There are two DOC huts along the trail. Like other Great Walks of New Zealand, you’ll want to book your accommodation early if you're going during the warmer months.

When to visit Rakiura Track

October to April usually brings the most stable weather, but some people prefer coming in winter (June–August) when the track is quiet and there’s a better chance of seeing the Southern Lights. If you’re into birds, early spring (October–November) is great—the forest is louder and more active. April and May can also be a nice window, with clear days and golden leaves across the bush.

11. Hump Ridge Track

The Hump Ridge Track is a 38-mile (61-kilometer) loop on the South Island’s southern coast, and it’s the result of a community effort to protect the area from logging. Locals fought to preserve this part of Fiordland, and the result is a diverse track that climbs from sea level to the top of Hump Ridge, with wide views over Fiordland, Stewart Island, and out to the Southern Ocean.

As of October 2022, the Hump Ridge Track was officially designated as New Zealand’s 11th Great Walk, but it’s not yet fully integrated into the Department of Conservation's (DOC) managed Great Walk system.

One of the standout features is the Percy Burn Viaduct. At 476 feet (145 meters) long and 118 feet (36 meters) high, it’s the largest wooden viaduct in the Southern Hemisphere. You’ll pass through a range of landscapes on the loop—coastal bush, ancient beech forests, alpine ridgelines, and sections of rare limestone formations. Along the coastline, you might also see dolphins or seals, especially near Te Waewae Bay.

How to hike this route

The walk starts at the Rarakau carpark, which is about a 30-minute drive from Tuatapere. Most people hike the loop in three days, usually going counterclockwise to get the steepest climb out of the way on day one. You’ll gain around 2,625 feet (800 meters) in elevation on the first day alone, so some fitness prep goes a long way.

If you’re short on time—or just not keen on the full climb—there are helicopter services available for parts of the track. Shuttles run from Invercargill and Te Anau, which makes logistics pretty straightforward.

When to visit Hump Ridge Track

You can walk it year-round, but February and March generally have the most settled weather and fewer sandflies. January can be hit or miss—it’s summer, but it also sees some of the heaviest rainfall. Winter (June to August) can be beautiful with snow-capped views from the ridge, but you’ll need proper gear and alpine experience to manage the conditions safely.

If you go in early November, you’ll catch the rātā trees in full bloom along the coast—bright red flowers that stand out against the deep green forest and the sea beyond.