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The Great Hikes of New Zealand

The nine Great Walks were selected because of their popularity with both local trampers and international visitors and for their outstanding scenery. They are our undisputed premier hiking tracks and by every definition have something to offer even the most seasoned hiker. These nine destinations are recognised as significant and have been designated ‘Great Walks’ by the Department of Conservation (DOC). The tracks are mainly in the high country or mountain areas – Apart from the coastal Abel Tasman track in the north of the South Island. They Range in duration from two to six days and the tracks cover a variety of landscapes on safe, well-maintained pathways that are of a higher standard than other hiking tracks.

Guided & Freedom Options: All tracks offer guided tours and also freedom walks (self-guided) for which bookings are essential. Accommodation is generally in basic huts or lodges, but some guided walks offer more luxurious options. The high season starts in October (late-Spring) and lasts until April (early-Autumn) We do however run a series of out of Season guided hikes.

South Island Great Walks

Abel Tasman Coastal Track

One of the easiest Great Walks, lined with miles of golden beaches this walk can be completed in 3-5 days over 50km (31miles) route. Long hours of sunshine makes this a great track for all seasons.

The hiking route follows the Ball Ridge, high above the Tasman Glacier, and opposite the mighty Caroline Face of Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest ice face.

The Heaphy Track

This track crosses a range of landscapes in Kahurangi National Park, from the junction of the Brown and Aorere Rivers, over expansive tussock downs to the lush forests and roaring sea of the West coast.

The Hollyford Track

The Hollyford 3 Day Wilderness Journey is an all inclusive spectacular walk from the mountains to the sea that is suitable for a range of fitness levels.

The Kepler Track

The Kepler Track in the South West of the South Island circles through magnificent Fiordland scenery, crossing the high mountain ridges between Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapouri.

The Humpridge Track

The Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track is a 3 day loop walk that takes trampers along the South Coast of New Zealand, up to the sub-alpine zone of the Hump Ridge.

The Routeburn Track

A 32 Kilometre, 2-3 day, moderate hiking tack links Mount Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks. Features of the track include waterfalls, forested valleys, birdlife, lakes and spectacular scenery.

Often described as “the finest walk in the world”. Take 5 days and experience Fiordland at it’s most spectacular: Deep lakes, silent fiords, luxuriant forest and sheer canyons.

Kaikoura Wilderness Track

The Kaikoura Wilderness Walk takes you through a protected significant natural area of international importance in New Zealand’s Kaikoura Ranges.

The Akaroa Walk

Hike around the fascinating Banks Peninsula region and absorb breathtaking views of the Canterbury Plains and the spectacular Souther Alps.

Surrounded by a habitat not changed for a thousand years, this track is a 29km loop that traverses country with a rich diversity of trees and ferns with abundant birdlife that mainly follows the coast of Steward Island.

The Queen Charlotte Track

Located at the top of New Zealand’s South Island in the Marlborough Sounds, offers a spectacular of Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds.

North Island Great Walks

Lake Waikaremoana

Perched in the rugged mountains of Te Urewera National Park, amidst untouched rainforest, experience a land cloaked in mist, mysticism and primordial forest as you circumnavigating beautiful Lake Waikaremoana.

Tongariro Northern Circuit

This is one of New Zealand’s best walks, with wonderful alpine and volcanic vistas, warm turquoise lakes, and steam vents. You’ll see Mt. Ngauruhoe – a.k.a Mt. Doom in The Lord of the Rings.

Whanganui River Journey

A series of walks reached only by canoe as you journey down the enchanted Whanganui River. Almost completely covered by native lowland forest you’ll see waterfalls, glowworms and grotto’s.