New Zealand Hiking Tours & Trips
Imagine trekking through landscapes so diverse they've stood in for multiple planets in films. New Zealand was practically designed for hikers. Milford Track in Fiordland gets the fame, Routeburn delivers stunning scenery, and Tongariro Crossing showcases volcanic landscapes. Mountains, fjords, beaches, forests - sometimes all visible in one day. Don’t miss Mount Cook and Abel Tasman, because the South Island's West Coast offer months of potential hiking.
Excellent
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Charles • traveled in March, 2025
The Tour Operator (Exodus Adventure) answered all my questions pre-departure, provided an unbelievably friendly and experienced tour leader and followed the itinerary that lived up to all my expectations. Weather was expected to be wet on a few days but the tour leader changed the timing of the walks to make best use of gaps in the less pleasant weather and avoid having to walk in anything worse than short showers or very fine rain. The choice of walks was excellent in terms of the scenery, views and wildlife that we were able to experience. Some of the walks were quite strenuous but still enjoyable taken at a reasonable pace but then the tour was aimed at experienced hikers. Some of the accommodation was a bit basic and could be improved - the least good were those that were selected as alternatives to those advertised. But this was not advertised or priced as a luxury tour so does not alter the five star rating.
Discover New Zealand - T
Tammy • traveled in December, 2024
This tour was an unforgettable way to see the best of New Zealand's South Island in just 11 days! Perfect for the first-time travelers interested in exploring this beautiful island. The tour was well-organized, with comfortable hotels, and a great group of like-minded tourists. Most importantly, James, our local Maori tour guide made all the difference on this trip! He was attentive to the wishes of everyone individually and ensured we all were able to experience the landmarks and the activities we came to enjoy. He freely shared his personal knowledge of local and Maori customs, history, and culture, a standout perk you won't find anywhere else! We left New Zealand with many wonderful photos and endless memories of this amazing trip!
11 Day 'Takahe' South Island Select Tour - SS
Shiuli • traveled in November, 2024
I enjoyed the trip the tour guy Robbie John is fantastic he is helpful and informative. On the trip one particular motel had been changed but not up to the standards that was very disappointing specially we had to stay on for two night.
Walking in New Zealand
33 New Zealand hiking holidays with 1,241 reviews
Compiled by
SteffNew Zealand travel expert at TourRadar
- Walking in New Zealand
- Active New Zealand
- Discover New Zealand
- Walk New Zealand's Abel Tasman & Queen Charlotte
- Ultimate North Island - All-Inclusive Adventure - 8 Days
- Walk New Zealand's Tongariro Crossing
- Wild New Zealand Hut to Hut Adventure
- Best of Hiking New Zealand
- Walk New Zealand's Fiordland National Park
- Walk New Zealand's Queen Charlotte Track
Walking in New Zealand
24 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“In such an amazing country it is very difficult to pick out any one in particular. Our tour made sure we had a daily 'wow!'”
Diane, traveled in January
New Zealand's finest hiking awaits on sections of the Kepler Track and Queen Charlotte Track. The volcanic landscape of Tongariro National Park, geothermal wonders of Waimangu Valley, and Hooker Valley beneath Mount Cook offer diverse terrain. Coastal walks at Bark Bay and mountain trails in Wanaka round out the journey.
Duration 19 days Destinations Auckland, Rotorua, Tongariro National Park, Wellington, Queen Charlotte Sound, Abel Tasman National Park, Paparoa National Park, Fox Glacier, Wanaka, QueenstownSee all destinations Age Range Ages 16+ Physical Rating Easy Distance 1158 mi Operator Explore! From $8,300
20% Off- US$6,640You save $1,660
Premier trails include the 19km Routeburn Track with mountain vistas and the 5km Hooker Valley Track featuring swing bridges and icebergs. Hokitika's rainforest canopy offers 20-meter-high platforms while Lake Wanaka presents pristine shoreline paths.
Duration 9 days Destinations Christchurch, Fox Glacier, Queenstown, Arrowtown, Glenorchy, Twizel, Mount Cook Age Range Ages 18-35 Physical Rating Easy Distance 550 mi Operator Contiki From $1,625
15% Off- US$1,381You save $244
Discover New Zealand
18 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“A brilliant mix of sight seeing, culture and adrenaline rush!”
Diane, traveled in March
New Zealand's finest hikes feature the 19.4km Tongariro Crossing and Abel Tasman Coast Track. Varied terrains from volcanic Mount Tongariro to glacial Hooker Valley come alive with expert guides providing local insights and safety support.
Duration 18 days Destinations Auckland, Rangitoto Island, Rotorua, Tongariro National Park, Wellington, Picton, Nelson, Motueka, Marahau, Abel Tasman National ParkSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Physical Rating Moderate Distance 1313 mi Operator Exodus Adventure Travels From
15% Off- US$11,475
The iconic Queen Charlotte Track begins in Picton, leading through native bush to Resolution Bay and Endeavour Inlet. The Kenepuru Saddle climb to Eatwells Lookout reveals panoramic views of Marlborough Sounds. Guides lead treks past historic Meretoto and secluded Portage Bay.
Duration 5 days Destinations Picton, Queen Charlotte Sound Age Range Ages 15+ Physical Rating Moderate Distance 45 mi Operator Intrepid Travel From
15% Off- US$2,230
Daily 15km routes wind through Whirinaki's podocarp forests and Tongariro's volcanic terrain. Lake Tarawera's coastal paths, ascent to Emerald Lakes, and Ohineopango Springs feature elevation changes from 380m to 800m across diverse landscapes.
Duration 8 days Destinations Auckland, Rotorua, Taupo, Tongariro National Park, Wellington Age Range Ages 14+ Physical Rating Moderate Distance 354 mi Operator Hiking New Zealand From
15% Off- US$2,283
You'll trek the legendary Tongariro Alpine Crossing through UNESCO-listed Tongariro National Park, passing the volcanic peaks of Mt Ngauruhoe, Mt Tongariro, and Mt Ruapehu across red tussock-covered lava flows. The route continues to 20-meter Taranaki Falls through alpine shrubland and beech forest, then you'll ride the Sky Waka Gondola to Whakapapa Ski Fields for mountain views before checking out Waitonga Falls—the park's highest waterfall.
Duration 5 days Destinations Auckland, Taumarunui, Tongariro, Tongariro National Park, Ohakune, Taranaki, Pipiriki, Waitomo Age Range Ages 15+ Physical Rating Easy Distance 452 mi Operator Intrepid Travel From
15% Off- US$2,270
You'll cover 45 miles over 7 days through Nelson Lakes National Park on a section of the 3,000 km Te Araroa Trail, trekking to Rotomairewhenua/Blue Lake, the world's clearest natural freshwater with 83m visibility and sacred to Māori. The trail navigates steep zigzags down 3,000 ft from Travers Saddle and crosses swing bridges over deep chasms. You'll spend 6 nights in remote DOC huts like Lakehead and Upper Travers, with a professional guide carrying bulk equipment and preparing all meals for your group of 2-6 hikers.
Duration 9 days Destinations Christchurch, Nelson Lakes National Park Age Range Ages 12+ Distance 216 mi Operator Wildland Trekking From
15% Off- US$3,350
The 17-mile Nydia Track and Pororari River Loop showcase New Zealand's natural beauty. Varied terrains from Hokitika Gorge's rainforest to Lewis Pass's alpine meadows provide daily hikes ranging 4-13km with professional guide assistance.
Duration 10 days Destinations Christchurch, Punakaiki, Paparoa National Park Age Range Ages 12+ Physical Rating Moderate Distance 241 mi Operator Wildland Trekking From
15% Off- US$6,100
New Zealand's premier trails beckon, from Routeburn Track to Key Summit and Milford Track to Giant Gate Falls. Beautiful suspension bridges span the Waiau River while beech forests echo with native bird calls from tui and kereru.
Duration 4 days Destinations Queenstown, Te Anau, Milford Sound Age Range Ages 15+ Physical Rating Moderate Distance 210 mi Operator Intrepid Travel From
15% Off- US$2,050
Duration 4 days Destinations Picton, Queen Charlotte Sound, Marlborough, Kaikoura Age Range Ages 15+ Physical Rating Moderate Distance 211 mi Operator Intrepid Travel From
15% Off- US$1,570
What our customers ask about New Zealand Hiking Tours & Trips
What are the best hiking trails in New Zealand for various skill levels?
New Zealand's trails range from gentle walks to demanding alpine routes. Beginners often start with the Kepler Track in Fiordland which offers easy valley walks through native bush. More experienced hikers head to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing where the path climbs over 750 meters through volcanic terrain. Braemar Station near Mount Cook serves as a good base for both easy valley walks and challenging mountain trails. According to TourRadar travelers "the varied scenery along different trails from rainforests to alpine peaks makes hiking accessible and rewarding for all levels."
What type of accommodation can I expect on multi-day hiking tours?
Lodging options span from basic backcountry huts to upscale hotels. Many tours include stays at established properties like the Punakaiki Resort near Pancake Rocks and Mount Cook Lodge. On remote trails like the Nydia Track you'll find Department of Conservation huts and campsites. Some routes feature distinctive stays at places like Maruia Hot Springs Resort near Lewis Pass. A TourRadar reviewer noted: "The mix of accommodation was perfect - from comfortable hotels in towns to cozy mountain lodges with stunning views of the Southern Alps."
What is the best time of year for hiking in New Zealand?
December through March (summer) brings the most reliable weather for hiking with dry trails and clear skies. Lower elevation routes like the Hollyford Track welcome hikers year-round while alpine paths such as the Tongariro Crossing work best in summer. October-November and April-May see fewer visitors but less predictable conditions. One TourRadar traveler shared: "The spring wildflowers in November were spectacular along the coastal tracks though we did get some rain." The Hermitage Hotel near Mount Cook provides good trail access during peak summer months.
How physically demanding are multi-day hikes in New Zealand?
The physical demands vary by trail. The Abel Tasman Coast Track represents a moderate option with 4-5 hours of daily walking on well-maintained paths. More difficult routes like the Tongariro Northern Circuit need 6-8 hours of hiking each day with steep climbs. The Hollyford Track covers 19.5km on day one and 15km on day two through beech forest. A TourRadar traveler noted: "The hikes were challenging but very manageable with proper preparation - our guide helped set the right pace." Tour companies rate trails from 1 (easy) to 4 (challenging).
What wildlife might I encounter while hiking in New Zealand?
The trails offer chances to see distinctive New Zealand wildlife. Stewart Island holds populations of kiwi birds while Milford Sound hosts fur seal colonies. Forest areas welcome native birds like tui and bellbird. Kaikoura's waters attract whales and dolphins. A TourRadar traveler shared: "We saw bottlenose dolphins playing near our boat in Milford Sound and plenty of seabirds along the coastal tracks." The Hollyford Track sometimes reveals Fiordland Crested Penguins and New Zealand fur seals at Long Reef.
How much does a typical guided hiking tour in New Zealand cost?
Tour prices reflect the length and included services. A 4-day guided walk in Fiordland starts around USD 1500 while full 24-day hiking adventures reach USD 6000. The 8-day Hollyford Highlights tour costs USD 4626 with lodging guides and select meals included. Daily rates typically fall between USD 200-600 based on comfort level and package features. A TourRadar traveler noted: "While not cheap the value was excellent considering the remote locations accessed and quality of guides."
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