You don’t need to commit to days on the trail to enjoy Aotearoa New Zealand’s great outdoors. This curated list of short walks offers a taste of the what makes this country so unforgettable – no hiking boots required.
New Zealand’s short walks generally take less than four hours to complete. The well-maintained tracks are clearly marked, easily accessible by car, and require no special equipment – perfect for families, causal walkers, or anyone short on time.
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, and
• 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:
• Stick to marked trails,
• Use bridges to cross rivers,
• Avoid disturbing wildlife, and
• Take all litter with you.
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.
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