Aotearoa New Zealand’s multi-day hikes take you through some the country’s most iconic landscapes.
Suitable for people with moderate fitness and basic backcountry (remote area) experience. Some sections may be rough, muddy, or steep. Major stream and river crossings are bridged, but smaller ones are not. Tracks are clearly marked, and light hiking shoes/boots are required.
Suitable for people with moderate to high fitness and backcountry (remote area) experience. Navigation, river crossing, and survival skills may be required. Tracks can be rough and steep. Expect unbridged stream and river crossings – some rivers will require river-crossing skills. Sturdy tramping/hiking boots are essential.
New Zealand’s multi-day hikes are suitable for intermediate to advanced hikers, these trails cover a variety of landscapes, including alpine, coast, and forest environments. Most routes include huts or campsites, and many can be booked through the Department of Conservation (DOC)(opens in new window).
Check the weather
New Zealand’s weather can change quickly, especially in mountainous areas. Always check the forecast(opens in new window) before you go and prepare for the worst-case scenario.
Know the track conditions
Visit the Department of Conservation (DOC)(opens in new window) website for the latest track conditions before setting out.
Pack appropriately
Essentials include a waterproof jacket, warm clothing, a hat, gloves, sturdy footwear, food, water, a torch, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a means of communication (cell phone or emergency beacon). Visit the DOC website(opens in new window) for a full gear list.
Share your plans
Tell someone your itinerary, including the route, expected return time, and emergency contact details. The Plan My Walk(opens in new window) app is an excellent tool for this purpose.
New Zealand is free of predators, snakes, and poisonous insects. However, mosquitoes and sandflies are common year-round, especially near beaches, lakes, and rivers.
When hiking, remember to:
Stick to marked trails
Use bridges to cross rivers
Avoid disturbing wildlife
Take all litter with you.
New Zealand is free of predators, snakes, and poisonous insects. However, mosquitoes and sandflies are common year-round, especially near beaches, lakes, and rivers.
When hiking, remember to:
Find everything you need to know before you go, including updates on weather, tracks, huts, and safety.
Your one-stop shop for information, reviews, difficulty ratings, gear recommendations, and more.
Find out how to travel responsibly and help care for Aotearoa New Zealand – its land, culture, and people.
