New Zealand Great Walks
There are nine Great Walks in New Zealand, although one so-called Great Walk is actually a canoe trip down a river. This is often referred to as a 'Great Journey' however. There are numerous tracks and hikes in addition to these of course, but these walks combine excellent facilities with some of the finest landscapes accessible by foot in the country.
Bookings are essential and early booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment (especially important for the Milford Track). View listings for guided walking tours.
The Great Walks of New Zealand are listed below:
North Island Great Walks
- Lake Waikaremoana Track, Te Urewera National Park – A three to four day, easy to medium walk with great views of the lake and surrounding bush.
- Tongariro Northern Circuit, Tongariro National Park – A four day medium to hard tramp through an active volcanic landscape. The first day of this hike can be done as the Tongariro Crossing.
South Island Great Walks
- Abel Tasman Coastal Track, Abel Tasman National Park – An easy two to three day walk along the coast, close to beaches and bays.
- Heaphy Track, Kahurangi National Park – A four to five day medium to hard tramp (hike) through forest and limestone landscapes, plus one truly great beach walk.
- Kepler Track, Fiordland National Park – A four to five day medium to hard tramp, which climbs to the top of mountain, crosses ridges with splendid views of alpine, river and lake scenery.
- Milford Track, Fiordland National Park – This four day, five night walk was once described as the 'finest walk in the world' and is one of the best known in the world. Includes views of river valleys, glaciers, waterfalls and includes an alpine crossing. Early bookings are strongly advised.
- Rakiura Track (Stewart Island) – A three day tramp, mostly on duckboards, along the coast and through forest.
- Routeburn Track, Mt Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks – A three day walk through stunning alpine scenery. Medium fitness is required.
To find accommodation, tours or transport in any of the areas mentioned above, simply click on Accommodation, Tours or Transport.
More New Zealand Highlights – By Region
View things to do on New Zealand's North Island or more suggestions for South Island sights & highlights.
More Things To See (Activities & Tours)
Whether it's walking or wine-tasting, cycling or sailing, jumping into a kayak, out of plane or off a bridge, New Zealand has a breath-taking array of activities for you to enjoy. View our suggestions of things to do in New Zealand for adrenalin junkies and the take-it-easy brigade!
