Top 11 Hikes in New Zealand
New Zealand is a true hiking paradise, offering countless day hikes as well as multi-day adventures. For longer treks, Kiwis call it "tramping" instead of hiking. If you're into walking trails, don’t miss the Great Walks — nine iconic routes chosen by the Department of Conservation that showcase the country’s most breathtaking landscapes.
1. Tongariro Alpine Crossing
One of New Zealand’s best day hikes: 19.4 km through volcanic terrain, steaming vents and the stunning Emerald Lakes (5–8 hrs). Weather can change quickly – bring warm, waterproof gear. Equipment rental is available. In poor weather, hikes may be cancelled. For a longer adventure, check out the Tongariro Northern Circuit – one of NZ’s nine Great Walks.
Getting There: Stay in Taupō and take a shuttle – I used Tongariro Expeditions ($70 return) and can recommend it. Go early to avoid the crowds!
2. Roys Peak
Roys Peak (1,581 m) is a mountain just 5 km from Wanaka, offering breathtaking panoramic views over Lake Wanaka and the surrounding peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park. The well-formed gravel trail climbs steadily through open grassy slopes, gaining 1,200 m of elevation – a tough but rewarding hike. Allow 4–6 hours return, bring plenty of water and food, as there’s no shade or refill stations along the way, and it can get windy even in summer.
3. Rob Roy Track
The Rob Roy Track, located 54 km west of Wanaka in Mount Aspiring National Park, is a 10 km return hike through stunning alpine landscapes with glaciers, waterfalls, steep cliffs, and snowfields – not too difficult, but incredibly scenic. The trail starts at Raspberry Creek car park, which also marks the beginning of the Aspiring Hut Trail, a separate hike leading to a backcountry hut you can stay in overnight (I didn’t do this one, but the valley looked absolutely breathtaking!). Note: The last 30 km of the access road are unsealed, with the final 10 km being weather-dependent – check road and weather conditions beforehand, as the streams can flood and some rental cars aren't permitted on this road.
4. Queenstown Hill
Queenstown Hill (907 m) is one of my absolute favorite hikes and a must-do when in Queenstown. The trail starts just 5 minutes from the town center at Belfast Terrace and climbs around 500 m through peaceful forest to the summit. The hike takes about 1–2 hours return and rewards you with stunning views over Queenstown, the surrounding mountains, and Lake Wakatipu.
5. Bob’s Cove Track
Bob’s Cove Track starts about 14 km from Queenstown on the road to Glenorchy. This short and easy walk takes you through lush greenery along the lake before a short climb leads to a scenic viewpoint. A quick adventure with amazing views – totally worth it!
6. Routeburn Track
One of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Routeburn Track stretches 32 km through both Mount Aspiring and Fiordland National Park, with nearly 800 meters of elevation gain. It leads through lush rainforest and stunning alpine terrain. While the full track takes several days, a popular option is the day hike to Routeburn Falls Hut and back – a return trip of approx. 17.6 km (5–6 hours). Most of the trail winds through forest, but the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic near the hut, making the effort well worth it.
7. Mount Maunganui
Mount Maunganui – known locally as The Mount – is an extinct volcano right on the coast of Tauranga, offering one of the best panoramic views in the Bay of Plenty. The Summit Track takes about 30–45 minutes (approximately 1.5 km) and climbs steeply to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of beaches, ocean, and the city below.
Prefer something easier? The Base Track is a scenic 3.5 km loop around the base of the mount – flat and perfect for a relaxed walk or jog along the shoreline.
8. Diamond Lake
Diamond Lake is just a 15-minute drive from Wanaka and offers several great hiking options, all starting with a loop around the lake. After a short walk, a series of wooden steps leads steeply up to the first viewpoint overlooking the lake and surrounding landscape. From there, you can choose to continue to the Lake Wanaka Lookout or hike higher up to the Rocky Mountain summit for even more impressive views.
9. Mount Eden Walk
Mount Eden is Auckland’s highest volcano at 196 m and just a 15-minute drive or about an hour’s walk from the city centre. The short trail to the summit takes around an hour and rewards you with a stunning 360° view over the city. A lush green crater, formed by the last eruption 15,000 years ago, makes this spot a true Auckland highlight and must-do!
10. Mount Iron
Mount Iron is Wanaka’s local hill, located just 5 minutes from the town centre. The 4.5 km loop trail leads to the 240 m summit and offers great views over Wanaka and the lake. It’s a popular spot for both hiking and trail running – perfect for a quick outdoor workout with a view!
11. Huka Falls
Just 1.6 km north of Taupō, the Waikato River narrows dramatically, sending over 220,000 liters of water per secondthrough a rock gorge and over the 11 m high Huka Falls. A footbridge lets you experience the power up close. Start the easy 1-hour walk from Spa Park, where the warm Otumuheke Stream flows into the river – a natural hot spring perfect for a soak.
For more adrenaline, take a jet boat ride to the base of the falls!
