Get out and walk
Managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC), there are 10 Great Walks to choose from - find out more below about the spectacular scenery that you'll see on each track and what you definitely won't want to miss!
Abel Tasman Coast Track
3-5 days, 60km
Blessed with a mild climate, golden beaches and coastal forest, the Abel Tasman Coast Track really has it all. Choose to walk the whole track or water taxi or kayak between different locations at any time of the year.
Heaphy Track
4-6 days, 78.4km
From forest to coast, the Heaphy Track combines all of New Zealand's scenic beauty into one Great Walk. Travel through expansive tussock downs, lush forests and nīkau palms to the roaring seas of the wild West Coast.
Rakiura Track
3 days, 32km
Escape on an island adventure and exchange the hustle and bustle of mainland life for the tranquillity of the Rakiura Track. Revel in the peacefulness and idyllic surroundings with the bush, birds and beach at your side.
Paparoa Track
2-3 days, 55km one way
The Paparoa Track boasts some of the most beautiful scenic vistas in New Zealand, from alpine tops, limestone karst landscapes, thriving rainforests to the Tasman Sea.
Kepler Track
3-4 days, 60km
An adventure above the clouds! The Kepler Track takes you from the gentle, beech-forested shores of Lakes Te Anau and Manapouri to the exposed tussock lands and the summit of Mount Luxmore for spectacular alpine views.
Milford Track
4 days, 53.5km
Experience the stunning grandeur of the Milford Track including rugged mountain peaks, breathtaking sheer canyons and majestic waterfalls. Walk beside pristine rivers and amongst lush, green rainforest before crossing Mackinnon Pass and reaching spectacular Milford Sound.
Routeburn Track
2-4 days, 32km
The Routeburn Track traverses the Southern Alps of New Zealand and passes through ice-carved valleys and beech forest. Walk alongside pristine rivers and glistening alpine lakes offering breathtaking views and mountain scenery.
Tongariro Northern Circuit
3-4 days, 43km
Winding its way past Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngāuruhoe, this Great Walk lets you explore dramatic volcanic landscapes including craters, glacial valleys, native beech forest, alpine meadows and emerald-coloured lakes in this World Heritage area.
Whanganui Journey
3-5 days, 145km
The Whanganui River winds its way from the mountains to the Tasman Sea through countless hills and valleys. This journey lets you take a multi-day canoe or kayak trip to experience its most remote scenic beauty, history and cultural significance.
Lake Waikaremoana Track
3-4 days, 46km
Trace the shoreline of beautiful Lake Waikaremoana 'the sea of rippling waters' for spiritual and cultural enlightenment. Walk through ancient rainforest, pass giant podocarp trees and admire stunning views from Panekire Bluff.