Best great walks new zealand

New Zealand is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, and the Department of Conservation's (DoC) "Great Walks" are some of the most iconic and popular hiking trails in the country. Here are some of the best Great Walks in New Zealand:

  1. Milford Track: Located in Fiordland National Park, this 4-day, 53km trail is considered one of the most beautiful and challenging Great Walks. It takes you through lush rainforests, past towering mountains, and alongside stunning waterfalls.
  2. Routeburn Track: Another 4-day, 32km trail in Fiordland National Park, the Routeburn Track offers breathtaking views of the Southern Alps, valleys, and waterfalls. It's considered one of the most scenic and challenging Great Walks.
  3. Tongariro Northern Circuit: Located in Tongariro National Park, this 3-day, 43km trail takes you through volcanic landscapes, including the famous Mount Ngauruhoe (Mount Doom from Lord of the Rings). It's a challenging hike with stunning views.
  4. Abel Tasman Coast Track: This 3-5 day, 51km trail in Abel Tasman National Park offers stunning coastal views, beaches, and native bush. It's a relatively easy hike with many scenic stops.
  5. Whanganui Journey: This 3-5 day, 145km trail follows the Whanganui River and is a unique hiking experience. You'll travel by canoe or raft and camp on riverbanks, surrounded by native bush.
  6. Ka Tiritiri o te Moana: This 2-day, 22km trail on Waiheke Island in the Hauraki Gulf offers stunning coastal views, beaches, and native bush. It's a relatively easy hike with many scenic stops.
  7. Rakiura Track: Located on Stewart Island, this 2-4 day, 32km trail takes you through native bush, along beaches, and to scenic lookout points. It's a relatively easy hike with many opportunities to spot wildlife.
  8. Paparoa Track: This 2-4 day, 55km trail on the West Coast offers stunning coastal views, limestone cliffs, and native bush. It's a relatively easy hike with many scenic stops.
  9. Heaphy Track: Located in Kahurangi National Park, this 4-6 day, 78km trail takes you through native bush, along rivers, and to scenic lookout points. It's a challenging hike with many opportunities to spot wildlife.
  10. Kawarau Trail: This 2-day, 46km trail in Fiordland National Park offers stunning views of the Southern Alps, valleys, and waterfalls. It's a relatively easy hike with many scenic stops.

Remember to plan ahead, book your accommodations and transportation in advance, and check the weather forecast before embarking on your Great Walk adventure.