Milford Track, Fiordland
Often referred to as “the finest walk in the world”, the Milford Track, located in Fiordland National Park is considered a must-do for any hiking enthusiast, both locals and travellers alike. This hike is an unforgettable experience showcasing New Zealand in some incredible ways and is home to many awesome spots including the Sutherland Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in New Zealand, with a drop of 580 metres!
Milford Track is known for picturesque landscapes in Fiordland, including rainforests, incredible fjords and alpine meadows. There is also some rich history amongst this walk and has been a favourite among hikers for many years. This area was originally used by Māori to access the pounamu (greenstone) resources of the west coast and was officially opened to tourists for hiking in 1888. The track is also well-maintained by the Department of Conservation (DoC) with shelters, toilets, cooking facilities and rest huts provided along the journey for you to recharge. Make sure you keep an eye out when travelling this track as you’re walking alongside a variety of native wildlife including Kea, Kaka and the rare Whio (blue duck).
There is a certain level of fitness required when completing this hike, despite not being the most difficult hike. The track is 53.5km, spread over four days and has uneven terrains as well as a particularly steep section when you cross Mackinnon Pass. It’s important you prepare well for this hike, like a well-prepared backpack and good hiking boots.
Booking is essential for this hike due to popularity and due to bunks in the sleep spots having limited availability. You can only walk in one direction from Glade Wharf to Sandfly Point. As you plan your visit to the Milford Track in Fiordland, park up at the Te Anau TOP 10 Holiday Park. You can enjoy free Wi-Fi at the park, spend your time relaxing and decompressing in the hot tub and even get your washing done with their laundry facilities.
Tongariro Crossing
A bucket list day hike and also considered one of the best hikes in New Zealand, for good reason. Located in the Tongariro National Park, this hike is roughly 19.4kms and takes one day to complete. Thousands of hikers set out on this beautiful hike to take in the spectacular views, the cultural significance and the iconic movie magic landmarks.
The hike walks you through an eye-catching and active volcanic landscape, taking in the Red Crater, Emerald Lakes and Blue Lake. With the vibrant colours, geological features, steaming vents and craters. Did you know, the remarkable colour of the Emerald Lake is due to minerals leaching from surrounding thermal area! The Tongariro crossing is also kind of famous too, hiking in the shadow of Mount Ngauruhoe, also known as Mount Doom from the Lord of the Rings films.
Among many benefits, the Tongariro crossing requires some physical ability to complete with significant elevation, testing your strength and endurance. You’ll need to be well-prepared for this day trip, including having sturdy hiking boots, water and layers of clothing to ensure you’re prepared for changes to the weather. The hike is also a point-to-point trail, meaning you’ll need to organise transport, however, there will be local shuttles to the drop-off point which can be organised.
If you’re planning on joining plenty of other kiwis this summer and walk the iconic Tongariro Crossing, Ohakune TOP 10 Holiday Park is right there and waiting to welcome you. With plenty of affordable accommodation options, you can enjoy the features of this park at any time. There is Sky TV to watch, a spa/hot tub to relax the muscles after a long walk and a BBQ area to enjoy your tea.
Kauaeranga Kauri Trail, The Pinnacles Walk
A must do adventure, and one of New Zealand’s most popular hikes, located in the Coromandel Forest Park. Known for views, on a good day you can see as far as the Bay of Plenty, Coromandel Peninsula and even the Hauraki Gulf. This hike is moderately challenging, but worth it when you get to experience history, diverse scenery and an overnight option if that suits your summer plans.
The track is suitable for hikers with a moderate level of fitness. The hike to the hut takes roughly 3 hours, with an additional 40 minutes to reach the summit. The elevation gain is an incredible 759 metres! This significant gain in elevation can be physically demanding, but very rewarding.
You’re bound to see plenty of native birds like the Tui and Kererū as well as seeing our distinctive Kauri trees. There is also rich history on this hike with the track being an old packhorse route used by Kauri bushmen in the 1920’s. You’ll walk along plenty of stone steps, bridges and other paths that were originally built for transporting supplies.
If you are considering this hike, there is the option to stay in the Pinnacles Hut which can accommodate a maximum of 80 people. This is something to book early as during peak seasons will fill up fast. When planning your trip, it’s also best to consider the time you tackle this hike. Sunrise and sunset from the Pinnacles’ summit are what make this one of the best hikes in New Zealand and you’ll find that most hikers that take on this track aim to watch either the sunrise or the sunset.
Abel Tasman Coast Track
This coastal, scenic and accessible trail is one of New Zealand’s greatest walks. Located in the Abel Tasman National Park, this coastal track features golden beaches, turquoise waters and nature – all for you to discover and experience!
This photographers dream is home to a variety of wildlife, breathtaking scenery and an easy track to enjoy and take your time with. There are well maintained paths for all hiking levels, plenty of seals, dolphins and numerous bird species to see for yourself and you might even see a Weka along the way. The full length of the track is 60kms, spread out over 3-5 days, but you have the option to make it shorter or longer with flexibility and the option of water taxi-ing from some spots. With the length of the hike, there is plenty of options to rest your head in the DoC huts or camp sites along the track.
This track is famous for its golden sandy beaches such as Anchorage Bark Bay and Awaroa. These beaches are the perfect stop for you to enjoy some swimming, kayaking and just downright relaxing! There is also plenty of rich history along this hike, with remnants of early Māori settlements and European pioneers as the area was once a hub for the granite and timber industries. Follow along the journey with plenty of interpretive signage of our history along the way.
If you finally plan to tick off the Abel Tasman Coastal Walk, perch yourself at either the Pohara Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park or the Motueka TOP 10 Holiday Park. Both surrounded by Aotearoa’s finest, either a beach or nature, you can enjoy your holiday even after the hike.
Pohara Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park has affordable accommodation options, is located right along from the beach and provides you with all amenities to go home with a full tummy and clean washing.
Motueka TOP 10 Holiday Park has amenities that pretty much guarantee you’ll want to extend your holiday. Take a dip in the swimming pool or relax in the hot tub, hire a bike and do some exploring or enjoy some TV after a long day in the TV/Recreation room.
When planning a hike, consider suitable accommodation for the days surrounding in preparation for your trip. Finding accommodation nearby can make it easier for you to leave some gear behind, provide a nice place to rest your head or even just be a spot to continue your summer holidays after a brilliant hike!
With the scene set, now’s your nudge to lace up your boots, pack your sense of adventure, and prepare for an unforgettable summer of experiencing the best hikes in New Zealand. Get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime!