New Zealand Walks
There are a set of nine really popular New Zealand walks that have been termed the "Great Walks". A great place to start researching your hiking holiday if you are looking for a walk that will provide you with access to exploring some of the most scenic parts of NZ's back country. Most people who walk these tracks are visitors from outside of NZ as they provide some of the best walking along tramping tracks that are maintained to a very high standard. By the way, 'Tramping' is Kiwi-speak for hiking, trekking, or bush walking.
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These nine most famous New Zealand walks are Department of Conservation (DOC) maintained hiking tracks that make it easier for visitors to make the most of what this fantastic country has to offer the enthusiastic walker. However, don't expect to find solitude in the high season as as the nine great New Zealand walks are heavily promoted by the DOC to tourists and can become quite crowded at the most popular times of year.
If you want to get away from the crowds better to choose a lesser promoted walk. DOC staff at visitor centres will help you plan enjoyable tramps on less visited tracks. Some less visited tracks are also listed further down this page.
If you are keen to meet other like minded hikers and have a sociable attitude to walking then one of these nine would be a fantastic choice.
Huts and Camping
Not only are the tracks well maintained but they also have conveniently located and comfortable huts that are well equipped to deal with a high number of visitors through the tramping season.
Some of the huts may be serviced by wardens, there should be a drinking water supply, the bunks may have mattresses, some huts include a flush toilet, some heating and gas for cooking may also be provided during high season.
Out of peak season any such facilities are likely to be minimal. Camping areas are often provided near to the huts so you can pitch a tent if you prefer or if the hut is full to capacity.
Food and Equipment
You need to go prepared with your own food, cooking utensils, bedding, and water when there is a poor supply forecast.
Be warned, there will not be anyone selling food and supplies at the huts, the wardens are there to service the sites and do not sell or provide any such supplies so do make sure you have carried adequate provisions with you.
Visit the Ready Store website for some great ideas offers on all types of survival food and water kits.
Permits
Coromandel Peninsula
There isn't really any charge for using the tracks themselves but check the permit requirements and/or charges that apply to the hut or camping facilities for any individual walk or season.
In high season you will need to make a booking to be guaranteed a camping space or use of a hut along the most popular tracks.
It is also possible to purchase a Great Walks Pass that permits you to use camping or huts on a particular walk for a specified number of nights. However, unlike the permit, the pass does not guarantee you a space in the hut.
To check details of the tracks and to make a booking, visit the Department of Conservation web site or information centre.
Weather Conditions
During the winter many New Zealand walks in the alps will be impassable or not fully accessible across the whole route due to risk of avalanche and snow. Please ensure you check before embarking on any walk during the winter season.
If the weather permits, you may be able to take a winter walk for part of a track but it is not advised to do so without the appropriate knowledge and equipment during the winter months.
See my section on Tongariro Walk Equipment and Clothing for an idea of what you will need. It's important you also read the New Zealand Outdoor Safety Code, including 5 tips on survival in this environment.
Always best to check with the DOC for any last minute tips, guides, warnings, and news. For example, if it has been a really dry season there may not be a drinking water supply at the huts. In which case, the DOC will display that information on the web site and/or visitor centres.
Nine Great Walks
Great Walks - Lists all the treks on one page and gives a brief description of each one so you can compare each walk and it's suitability for your holiday and requirements against the others.
Full descriptions of each walk on dedicated pages
North Island
South Island
Other New Zealand Walks
North Island
Tongariro National Park
Mt Holdsworth Circuit
Ninety Mile Beach Cape Reinga Walkway
Round the Mountain, Mt Taranaki/Egmont
Maungatautari Ecological Island Trust Walks
South Island
Arthur's Pass
Banks Peninsula Walk
Greenstone & Caples Tracks
Hump Ridge Track
Inland Pack Track
Kaikoura Coast Track
Matukituki Valley Walks
North-West Circuit
Queen Charlotte Track
Rees-Dart Track
St James Walkway
Wangapeka and Leslie-Karamea Tracks
You will find that there are a multitude of New Zealand walks for you to participate in while on your vacation or travels. Some are just for half or one day, others can take you out into the NZ bush for days on end. They all provide a real experience of this unique environment and the outdoors.
Have you a Story about a New Zealand Walk to Share?
Have you been on a walk in New Zealand? Or... do you know someone else who has hiked a New Zealand track who would like to tell their story and share their experience?
If you have special New Zealand Walks stories to share we would love to hear about them, whether it be about the location, the track, the scenery, your guide or friends, or the funny moments you remember about the walk. It's great fun to share your holiday experiences with others.
Outdoor Safety in New Zealand
If you are planning to take part in any of the popular outdoor activities available, and that are described throughout this site, please don't forget to read the New Zealand Outdoor Safety Code, the information is extremely useful and will help you stay safe.
Related Links
The LARGEST selection of Backpacks online at eBags.com
Visit Altrec for great deals, Buy Camping Tents at Altrec: 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
Full Selection of Backpacks - Altrec Outdoors
Visit the Ready Store for great offers on ready meals and survival food kits, self heating food and water supplies, solar powered survival radios, 72 hour kits, and loads more useful survival kit equipment.
Items to keep you warm. Boot heaters, warm mittens and gloves, boot dryers, face masks, long underwear, and many unique items.
Wallets & Money Clips for men and women at eBags.com
Read the New Zealand Outdoor Safety Code for 5 tips on survival in this environment.
Visit my page on New Zealand travel insurance for a guide to insurance.
Return from New Zealand Walks to the Explore New Zealand home page or visit my New Zealand Great Walks and New Zealand Track Maps pages.
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