Best Hikes in New Zealand

There are plenty of hiking spots in nearly all areas around the world. Some are rocky mountains, some comprise of short hills and greenery loaded areas for hikers to enjoy the beauty of nature. For those who are searching for the most attractive hiking spots, New Zealand is surely on top of the preferred places to go for it.

Let’s say you have made to New Zealand or you have planned your trip to the country you must admit that you will be with the most adventurous and scenic hikes of the world. The place for hikers is majestic and will make your hike on the tracks regularly rather than just over the weekend or occasionally.

Hiking in itself is a great healthy physical activity to stretch your legs and entire body. But, the scenic views and fresh air make your mind quite fresh and gives an energetic feel. There is great diversity in the treks been offered in the country.

There are a few those for 30 minutes and then some are for 3 days and for months even, which allows you to camp at magnificent sites.

Table of Contents

Best Hikes in New Zealand

Let us find out the best hikes in New Zealand that offer a good range of opportunities, besides just hiking. Based on our knowledge and experience with the best traveling spots, we have sorted out some of the best hike points in New Zealand which you can opt for without any hesitation as we bet you are never going to forget those scenic places throughout your life.

Ben Lomond

Ben Lomond is an ultimate destination for the residents of Queenstown and the tourists as well. The hike is very well maintained by the capable Department of Conservation. The Mount Alfred is the entry point that stretches far and joins with the Ben Lomond Saddle. This is the point that allows you to pick the Bowen Parkway on the right or the Ben Lomond summit on the left.

Tongariro Crossing

Tongariro Crossing is right up there among the best hikes of New Zealand in the North Island area. It is popularly known as the greatest day hike in the world. The place is within the Tongariro National park, which also has 3 volcanoes. The fans of the Lords and the Rings trilogy must be familiar with the place through the lens. It is a one-way hike that spans almost 20 KM. The recommended direction to Tongariro Crossing to start at the Mangatepopo car park and start hiking through the Ketetahi car park for the most amazing experience.

Cape Brett

New Zealand is a tropical paradise and Cape Brett hike further endorse this fact. The hike starts with a quick short climb to a ridgeline and it makes its way through the scenic Manawahuna Reserve. It then reaches the lighthouse over the peninsular.

On this trail, you will see the Bay of Islands from the top of the ridge and also a mind-blowing view of the iconic Hole in the Rock. The hike lasts for 3 to 4 hours. If you are lucky then you might also see seals and dolphins from the vantage point on the cliffs.

The mountains there are considered sacred and among the top the holy mountains of Polynesia. This hike could be done at any time of the year as the weather is not a problem here at all.

The Inland Pack Track in Punakaiki

It is located about 56 KM south of Westport, which is a beautiful coastal town in Punakaiki. It is widely known for its pancake type of rock formations. The Inland Pack Track stretches over a distance of 25 KM on each side. If you are looking to complete the entire hike then allow yourself 2 to 3 days with proper arrangements of camping and food.

The single-day hikers also have a good choice to start their hike from the Waikori Road and reach the Pororari River track in about an hour. Turning left and following the river track would lead you back to the Punakaiki campground.

If you have time and looking to explore it deeply, then the Westland National Park experience would be a great thing to mesmerize you.

You must prepare yourself for the adventure before you start it. Proper planning and preparation will always help in giving more exciting experiences throughout the time you want to spend there.

Video Credit: V travels

Buck Taylor Track Loop

It is an easily accessible hike, which is just a 45-minute drive to the west of Auckland. You need to go downhill from the Lone Kauri spot between the tall Manuka and the gorgeous fern tree. This is a great place to camp and the experience would be unforgettable.

You will witness the dune ridges here and following them would take you to the rock tunnel and eventually to the Karekare Beach which is surely a breathtaking experience for everyone who loves to see the diverse areas during their adventure-filled hike.

This place will allow you to see seals that will mesmerize you with their crawl over the high perches. Once done then you can move further ahead to the Zion Hill Track for a completely contrasting experience with its steep slopes and amazing views.

New Zealand is a place for all types of hikers. If you are looking for a day hike then countless options are there with easily accessible hikes.

Then some really long hikes, long for days or even months at times. Depending on the time you have and the area that you have chosen for hiking and camping, you can choose places which are the best. To help you find the best ideas, we have discussed the best available hikes in New Zealand, which are suitable for varying age groups and preferences.

You can also find other in-depth reviews and buyer’s guides on Best Lakes in Canada, Best Hotels in Banff, Best Time to Travel to Jamaica, Secret Behind Cheap Flights And Travel Deals, The Best And The Worst Airlines In The World, and Best Travel Essentials
in the TRAVEL category where we provide you a hand-picked list of top-rated products on the market with specific reviews, pros, and cons to help you easily choose the best products for your needs and preference.

Best Hikes in New Zealand