To tramp, in Kiwi speak, is to hike, and New Zealand has some of the finest walking trails you’ll find anywhere.
Many thread their way through national parks, perfectly showcasing the natural beauty for which the country is famed. From single-day rambles to multi-day treks, here are our favourite New Zealand walks.
MILFORD TRACK
5 Days | 53.5km
Hailed as ‘the finest walk in the world’, the Milford Track is celebrated for its pristine alpine and fiord scenery. Beginning at the head of Lake Te Anau, you’ll journey up the steep Mackinnon Pass, along glacier-carved valleys, across suspension bridges and past plunging waterfalls – including the lofty 580m Sutherland Falls – before emerging into Milford Sound.
ROUTEBURN TRACK
1-3 Days | 32km
Linking the Fiordland and Mt Aspiring National Parks, the Routeburn is one of New Zealand’s ‘Great Walks’, weaving through a landscape of ancient beech forest, reflective lakes and alpine meadows. Great for beginners, trampers are rewarded with dramatic views of entire valleys and mountain ranges.
QUEEN CHARLOTTE TRACK
1-5 Days | 71km
Soak up the spectacular seascapes of Marlborough Sounds on this classic track between Ship Cove and Anakiwa. Meandering through 70km of native forest, hikers can explore solo or with a knowledgeable guide for invaluable insight into the region’s flora and fauna. Expect quality accommodation and seamless luggage transfers throughout.
TONGARIRO ALPINE CROSSING
1 Days | 19.4km
If you’re short on time, this is easily New Zealand’s best day walk. Leading up to the saddle between Mt. Ngauruhoe and Mt. Tongariro, be prepared to discover a landscape peppered with old lava flows, steaming hot springs, volcanic rocks and emerald lakes.
COROMANDEL WALKS
The great kauri forests, ancient volcanoes and dramatic coastlines of Coromandel make for some incredibly scenic walks. A multi-day walking tour with an enthusiastic local guide will help you tick off top hiking trails like the Pinnacles Track and Coromandel Coastal Walkway, returning each night to the comfort of historic Coromandel Town.