New Zealand
One of our favorite places on the planet, New Zealand's beaches, mountains, fjords and plains will leave you speechless any time of year. The Southern Alps are home to some incredible hiking and trekking (or tramping, as the locals say). On the north island, find world class surf in Raglan, volcanic trekking on Tongariro, and emerald water in Coromandel.
Top Spots in and near New Zealand
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Kinloch, New Zealand
Backpack the Routeburn Track
5.012.5 miIf you're looking for the best the Routeburn Track has to offer but only have one night to spend - hike from the Glenorchy side Routeburn Shelter to Lake Mackenzie in 12.5 miles (approx. 3,500 feet of elevation gain) and stay at this stunning hut location before backtracking over Harris Saddle th...Read more -
Hahei, New Zealand
Hike to Cathedral Cove
4.73.1 miCathedral Cove is an isolated beach on the Coromandel Peninsula in the small coastal town of Hahei. Being that this is one of the most beautiful places in all of New Zealand, you can expect some crowds. You can take your chances at finding a spot in the small lot, or there is a shuttle option tha...Read more -
Glendhu Bay, New Zealand
Roys Peak Track
5.06.8 mi / 4127.3 ft gainThis is a very strenuous uphill hike, with very few level stretches along the way, so make sure you have a good level of fitness, and wear sturdy shoes to avoid blisters, as the way back down will be hard on your knees and feet. The track begins on private land, which is grassy with lots of shee...Read more -
Ngatira, New Zealand
Hike to Te Waihou Springs
3.72.9 mi / 0 ft gainThere are two different ends to begin the walk. The one I suggest starts at the Leslie Road Carpark, about 20 mins from Matatmata. Though the entire 5 km track is absolutely stunning, the most popular section, being the Blue Springs, is less than a ten min walk from the lot. The Blue Springs pool...Read more -
Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand
Climb to Mueller Hut
5.06.4 mi / 3000 ft gainThis trek begins in the gateway town of Mount Cook Village, which is a must-visit destination in its own right, and serves as the jumping off point for most Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park ventures. Drive to the White Horse Hill Campground (follow the signs for the Hooker Valley) and park in the ...Read more -
Matamata, New Zealand
Explore Hobbiton
5.01 mi / 0 ft gainThe Hobbiton Movie Set is built into the hills of a private farm in Matamata, two hours south of Aukland. You can get your tickets online, in town, or right at the set. Peter Jackson and crew spent many months right here on the farm filming and building the immaculate set for the films.It truly i...Read more -
Tauranga, New Zealand
Hike to the top of Mount Maunganui
4.62.4 mi / 757.9 ft gainMount Maunganui sits right on the water in the Bay of Plenty. Half the island rests on the open ocean, where the other half rises out of the bay. Driving in to the town, it's impossible not to see this massive piece of land jutting above the flat town and ocean around it.Once you have found parki...Read more -
Te Anga, New Zealand
Explore the Mangapohue Natural Bridge
4.71 mi / 0 ft gainMangapohue Natural Bridge is about 30 kilometers past the infamous Glow Worm Caves in Waitomo. Continue on Te Anga Rd and you'll run into the beginning of the trail on the right. It's only about a 10 min walk out to the cavern so no need to worry about bringing a day pack.You walk through a tree ...Read more -
Piha, New Zealand
Evening at Piha Beach
4.8The beautiful black sand stretches as far as the eye can see at Piha Beach. Just a short hour drive from nearby Auckland, Piha Beach makes for the perfect evening getaway.Hike to the top of Lion Rock (well almost the top...the last portion of the trail is closed due to loose rock and hazardous co...Read more -
Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand
Hike to Hooker Lake
5.010 miOnce in Mount Cook Village follow the signs to the White Horse Hill Campground where you'll find the start of the Hooker Valley Track. Alternatively, you can camp in the campground and begin the hike before sunrise for the best experience. The sign says that the one-way hiking time is 1 hour and ...Read more -
Gordon, New Zealand
Hike to the top of Wairere Falls
4.76.2 mi / 1312.3 ft gainWairere Falls is located just ten minutes from Matamata. If you're in the area for the Hobbiton tour definitely make sure to take some time to hike the falls as well. Parking is super easy at the base of the hike and there is a restroom if needed before starting the trek. Allow yourself at least ...Read more -
Kokatahi, New Zealand
Explore Hokitika Gorge
4.0From the carpark follow the signs to the gorge. The trail goes through the forest for approximately 10 minutes downhill before reaching the swing bridge which spans the gorge. After the bridge you can continue walking down to another viewing platform and opportunity to go further down, closer t...Read more -
Taupo, New Zealand
Hike to Huka Falls
5.03.7 miThis hike begins in the Spa Thermal Park and there is one clear path to follow. After a couple minutes there is a bridge that crosses over a small section of the lake. This section of the lake is formed by several hot pools and is a great place to swim for a bit. From here the trail continues ...Read more -
Makomako, New Zealand
Explore Bridal Veil Falls
4.60.6 mi / 0 ft gainThe platforms overlooking the 55m falls from different angles offer unique perspectives of this natural feature. Shaped over time by water flowing across harder volcanic rock onto soft stone below, the falls have a deep pool, which combined with an area surrounded by native bush and wildlife, pro...Read more -
Auckland, New Zealand
Sunset Hike Mount Eden
5.02.9 mi / 643 ft gainThis brief hike up to the summit is perfect for any evening of your choice, providing an amazing 360 degree views, and of the downtown core. For those a little short on time or energy, you can also drive to and park at the summit to enjoy the sunset.Starting at the Mt Eden parking area, you work ...Read more -
Te Anga, New Zealand
Explore Marokopa Falls
4.51 mi / 0 ft gainMarokopa Falls is located right off Te Anga Rd in Waitomo. Most people visit Waitomo for the world famous Glow Worm Caves, but I encourage continuing on down the road to visit the falls.The tramp to the falls is very easy and should only take about ten minutes through the covered green forest. Yo...Read more
