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Best nature hiking trails in New Zealand
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Best nature hiking trails in New Zealand

Get back to nature with these scenic trips, designed for those who want to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the great outdoors without too much hassle.

Here are some great trails to explore in New Zealand.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Waitarere Forest Walk

Horowhenua, New Zealand · star 4.0 (1) · 5.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 9 min

2

Medium

Hamilton Lake Domain Walkway

Hamilton, New Zealand · star 0.0 (0) · 3.7 km · Est. 55 min

3

Easy

Hooker Valley Track

Mackenzie, New Zealand · star 5.0 (6) · 10.3 km · Est. 2 hrs 20 min

4

Difficult

Karamatura to Mount Donald McLean

Waitakere Ranges, New Zealand · star 5.0 (1) · 11.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 15 min

5

Easy

Muriwai Beach Loop

Auckland, New Zealand · star 0.0 (0) · 5.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 10 min

6

Easy

Port Waikato Dunes Walk

Waikato, New Zealand · star 3.0 (1) · 5.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 11 min

7

Medium

Slip, Pipeline and Beveridge Track Loop

Waitakere Ranges, New Zealand · star 0.0 (0) · 6.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 34 min

8

Easy

Waipoua Forest Trail

Far North, New Zealand · star 0.0 (0) · 5.1 km · Est. 1 hrs 12 min

9

Extra Difficult

Mercer Bay Loop Track

Waitakere Ranges, New Zealand · star 5.0 (1) · 2.1 km · Est. 46 min

10

Medium

City to Sea Walkway

Wellington City, New Zealand · star 0.0 (0) · 13.9 km · Est. 3 hrs 35 min

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Reviews for nature hiking trails in New Zealand

Camille Tabary avatar

Waitarere Forest Walk

Camille Tabary · reviewed 7 months ago

star star star star star

Large forest trails with exits onto the beach. Perfect for a run in the shade and then dip. Not many views, just forest, but very peaceful.

No reviews available for Hamilton Lake Domain Walkway.

Andrew Bhamra avatar

Hooker Valley Track

Andrew Bhamra · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Amazing walk.easy to follow trail with stunning views.

avatar

Karamatura to Mount Donald McLean

CanyonFrontier65 · reviewed almost 3 years ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Muriwai Beach Loop.

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in New Zealand

What is the climate like for hiking in New Zealand?

New Zealand's climate varies from subtropical in the north to temperate in the south, with winter from June to August and summer from December to February. Winter hiking can be treacherous, particularly in South Island's mountains due to snowfall and shorter daylight hours.
The weather in spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) is typically milder, but can still be unpredictable, so appropriate gear is necessary. Spring offers stunning displays of blooming flowers, while fall presents beautiful foliage.
The best time to hike is during the summer, but trails can be crowded. Always check local weather forecasts and the Department of Conservation's website (https://www.doc.govt.nz/) for trail conditions.

Do I need a permit to hike in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, most trails do not require permits for day hikes. However, for multi-day hikes and overnight stays in huts or campsites, bookings may be necessary, especially in peak season. All the relevant information and booking processes can be found on the Department of Conservation's website (https://www.doc.govt.nz/).

Is wild camping allowed in New Zealand?

Wild camping in New Zealand, known as "freedom camping," is subject to local bylaws. Generally, it's allowed in certain public lands, but restrictions apply, particularly near populated areas. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. More information is available on the Department of Conservation's website (https://www.doc.govt.nz/).

Are there mountain rescue services in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, if you find yourself in an emergency situation while hiking, dial 111. The Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand oversees search and rescue operations. It's wise to carry a personal locator beacon in remote areas. Visit AdventureSmart's website (https://www.adventuresmart.org.nz/) for more safety advice.

Are there dangerous plants in New Zealand?

New Zealand's diverse flora includes native bush, ferns, and kauri trees. Hikers might encounter unique species like the silver fern or pohutukawa tree. Plants can vary greatly between coastal, alpine, and forest trails. For more information, the Department of Conservation's website (https://www.doc.govt.nz/) is a valuable resource.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in New Zealand?

New Zealand's wildlife includes various bird species like the kiwi and kea. Insects such as sandflies can be a nuisance in certain areas, especially in the South Island. It's important to respect wildlife and consider insect repellent. For more details, consult the Department of Conservation (https://www.doc.govt.nz/).

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