10 Must-Visit Trails on the North and South Islands

New Zealand is a hiker’s paradise, we are SO lucky to have such beautiful trails right on our doorstep! 

We've rounded up 20 of the best hikes across both the North and South Islands, including some that are perfect for families, those looking for epic views, and spots teeming with wildlife. Boots on fam, lets go!

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North Island Hikes

1. Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Difficulty: Hard | Duration: 6-8 hours
Arguably New Zealand’s most famous hike, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing takes you through a stunning volcanic landscape. As you trek through craters, lava fields, and alpine meadows, you'll witness the beauty of Mount Ngauruhoe (Mount Doom from The Lord of the Rings). This challenging hike offers amazing views, but it's only recommended for experienced hikers or those who are physically prepared for its demanding terrain.

2. Waikaremoana Great Walk

Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 4 days
The Waikaremoana Great Walk is an outstanding four-day journey through one of New Zealand's most beautiful wilderness areas. You'll follow the shores of the crystal-clear Lake Waikaremoana and pass through ancient rainforests, with stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Ideal for those seeking a longer, more immersive hike.

3. Coromandel Coastal Walkway

Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 4-5 hours
For a spectacular coastal hike with stunning ocean views, the Coromandel Coastal Walkway is one of the best on the North Island. Starting from the village of Stony Bay, the trail takes you along cliffs, beaches, and lush forests. Along the way, you'll spot native birds like tui and kereru. A great hike for families and hikers of varying levels.

4. Rangitoto Island Summit Track

Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 1.5-2 hours
If you’re looking for a shorter hike with rewarding views, the Rangitoto Island Summit Track is a fantastic option. This volcanic island just off Auckland’s coast offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding islands. The hike itself is relatively easy, making it suitable for kids and less experienced hikers.

5. Mount Maunganui Summit Track

Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 45 minutes
Mount Maunganui, known locally as “The Mount,” offers a short but scenic hike to the summit with breathtaking views over Tauranga, the Bay of Plenty, and beyond. The hike is family-friendly, making it perfect for older kids. You can also extend your day by hitting the nearby beach after your hike!

6. Tiritiri Matangi Island

Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 2-3 hours
For wildlife lovers, Tiritiri Matangi Island is an absolute must. A sanctuary for New Zealand’s endangered species, the island offers a variety of walking tracks where you can spot rare birds like the kākā, the takahē, and the little blue penguin. It’s an easy hike, perfect for families with kids.

7. Waitakere Ranges – Kitekite Falls Track

Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 1.5 hours
Located just outside of Auckland, the Kitekite Falls Track is a relatively short hike that takes you to a stunning three-tiered waterfall. The track is well-maintained and provides an easy escape into nature without having to leave the city for long.

8. The Pinnacles Track

Difficulty: Hard | Duration: 6-8 hours
Located in the Coromandel, the Pinnacles Track is a challenging day hike that rewards you with one of the most iconic views in New Zealand. The track takes you through beautiful native forest and up to the summit, where you’ll be treated to 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. For those with kids, you could do the hike in two parts, staying at the Pinnacles Hut overnight.

9. Cape Reinga to Te Paki Sand Dunes

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate | Duration: 1-2 hours
For a unique beach hike, the Cape Reinga to Te Paki Sand Dunes track is a great choice. This short, scenic trail takes you along the coastline where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. The highlight is the stunning Te Paki Sand Dunes, where kids can enjoy some sandboarding down the massive dunes.

10. Kauri Walk, Waipoua Forest

Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 30-45 minutes
For a shorter hike with an awe-inspiring experience, head to Waipoua Forest to see New Zealand’s largest kauri trees, including the famous Tane Mahuta. The walk is perfect for families with younger children and is one of the best places to experience the magic of New Zealand’s ancient forests.

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South Island Hikes

1. Routeburn Track

Difficulty: Hard | Duration: 3 days
One of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Routeburn Track is a stunning multi-day hike that traverses both Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks. The track offers a mix of alpine scenery, crystal-clear rivers, and towering waterfalls, making it a must-do for experienced hikers seeking epic views.

2. Hooker Valley Track

Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 3-4 hours
This trail in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is perfect for those looking for an easier hike with incredible views. The Hooker Valley Track takes you through a stunning alpine environment, with views of Mount Cook, alpine meadows, and several suspension bridges crossing the Hooker River. This is a family-friendly hike, ideal for kids.

3. Abel Tasman Coast Track

Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 3-5 days
The Abel Tasman Coast Track is one of the Great Walks of New Zealand, and it's known for its beautiful coastal scenery. The track follows the coastline, with golden sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and lush native bush. You can choose to do just part of the track as a day hike or take on the full 60 km route. It's a great way to experience beaches and coastal beauty.

4. The Kepler Track

Difficulty: Hard | Duration: 4 days
The Kepler Track is one of the Great Walks and takes you through the heart of Fiordland National Park. Known for its incredible variety, the track offers everything from alpine meadows to dense beech forest. You’ll get stunning views over Lake Te Anau and the surrounding mountain peaks.

5. Doubtful Sound (Wilmot Pass Track)

Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 4 hours
The Wilmot Pass Track, located in Fiordland, is one of the best places to see wildlife on the South Island. The track offers great opportunities to spot native birds like the kakapo and the mohua. It also provides amazing views of the Doubtful Sound, with its lush rainforests and tranquil waters.

6. Catlins Coast - McLean Falls Track

Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 1 hour
The Catlins Coast offers some of the best opportunities to see wildlife, and McLean Falls is one of the highlights. The track leads you through dense native forest to a beautiful waterfall. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for New Zealand’s native birds, like the fantail and the yellow-eyed penguin.

7. Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes

Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 30-60 minutes
Located on the West Coast, the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes are a must-see for nature lovers. The short walk takes you along dramatic limestone formations that resemble stacks of pancakes. The blowholes erupt with spectacular force at high tide, making it a memorable stop for anyone visiting the region.

8. Marlborough Sounds - Queen Charlotte Track

Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 4-5 hours
The Queen Charlotte Track offers spectacular coastal views and is ideal for those wanting a moderate hike. You’ll be treated to views of pristine bays, lush forests, and clear blue waters. This trail is perfect for families and anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of the Marlborough Sounds at a leisurely pace.

9. Mount Robert Track, Nelson Lakes National Park

Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 4-5 hours
For stunning views of the Southern Alps and Lake Rotoiti, the Mount Robert Track is a top choice. The hike takes you to the summit of Mount Robert, where you can enjoy panoramic views over the surrounding area. It’s a great hike for families with older children or more experienced hikers.

10. Otago Peninsula – Sandfly Bay

Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 1 hour
For a fantastic beach hike with a chance to see wildlife, head to Sandfly Bay on the Otago Peninsula. The short walk takes you to a secluded beach, where you may spot sea lions and the rare yellow-eyed penguin. The bay is also a great spot for birdwatching, making this a perfect combination of a beach hike and wildlife viewing.