Top 5 Hikes in New Zealand, by the Pure Exploration office staff. New Zealand might not be a big country, but it packs a big punch. From the Great Walks to hidden gems, there is so much exploring to be had.
1: Short, Lesser Known and Packs a Punch: Los Angelus Track
- Start: Mount Rober Carpark
- End: Coldwater Hut
- Distance: 21.7km / 13.5 miles
If you’re in Nelson Lakes National Park, this short track is spectacular! The Angelus Hut is a hands down winner from the hut system across New Zealand. You might even want to spend two nights there, and explore Lake Angelus Basin for a day. There are 900 National Parks huts to stay in around New Zealand for a minimal fee, varying in quality and size.
2: Quintessential Alpine: Routeburn Track
- Start: The Divide or Routeburn Shelter
- End: Routeburn Shelter or The Divide
- Distance: 32km / 20 miles
One of New Zealand's Great Walks. It’s not hard to imagine the huge eagles that used to soar through these high rock walled valleys. This valley is remote, with rivers rather than roads snaking their way below you. This is a three day affair, with established huts to stay in along the way. Scenes include alpine tundra, mossy beech forest and pristine lake walking. The number of people is managed by the Great Walk hut system, which needs to be booked three months in advance. It’s worth the effort.
3: All Inspiring Lakes: Lake Waikaremoana Hike
- Start: Onepoto
- End: Hopurahine Landing
- Distance: 46km / 28 miles
This is another one of New Zealand's Great Walks, and one of the only two in the North Island. Essentially, it’s a 46km / 28 mile walk around a pristine and stunning lake. The water makes your soul feel pure. The rainforest is even more soothing. It’s not too hilly, except for one that offers spectacular views across the lake and forest. Once again, you can stay in huts along the way.
4: Coastal Insanity: The Abel Tasman Track
- Start: Wainui Car Park
- End: Marahou
- Distance: 60km / 37 miles
It’s also possible to kayak this route! We think it’s best hiked, so you can get the high vantage points over the sensational coastline. Pack togs (swimsuit) and make sure to go in summer - this one is all about soaking up the saltwater and blissful bays. The sea is packed with fun seals and bottlenose dolphins. The environment is benign and safe, and the walking is divine - a lime green roller coaster on smooth clay through coastal dreamland. Another epic New Zealand Great Walk.
5: High Country Beauty: Mount Arthur and Tableland
- Start/End: Flora Car Park
- Distance: 35km / 22 miles
Emerge from the tree line to climb Mount Arthur (4298ft) for unique alpine views, then rest a night in Salisbury Lodge. Head onward through The Tableland and enjoy the burnt orange highland environment field with tarns and alpine flowers. Lake Peel is especially impressive.
New Zealand is brimming with every hike you could ever want. Once you get tired of the pristine high altitude lakes and staggering forested cliffs, there’s a simple solution. Join us on our New Zealand Adventure Guide Program to experience some of the iconic off the beaten track hikes.