15 best hikes in New Zealand (outside of the Great Walks)

New Zealand has a well-earned reputation as a great place to walk. The landscapes change a lot as you move through the country — you’ll get warm beaches, hot springs, and volcanic ridgelines in the north, then cooler forests, deep fjords, and glacier-fed lakes down south. What makes hiking here especially doable is the network of trails managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC). They keep the backcountry tracks in good shape, and you’ll find everything from short walks to multi-day treks.

The Great Walks tend to get most of the attention, but there are plenty of other trails worth doing. Here are some of the best hikes in New Zealand that aren’t part of the Great Walks system.

1. Hooker Valley Track

If you’re after a half-day walk that’s straightforward but still really scenic, the Hooker Valley Track is a good one to have on your list. It’s a 6-mile (10 km) return trail through Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, starting from White Horse Hill Campground. 

You’ll cross three swing bridges and walk alongside the Hooker River, with Aoraki/Mount Cook in view for most of the way. The track ends at Lake Hooker, which is fed by a glacier—sometimes you’ll see small icebergs floating in it, even in summer. 

The path is mostly flat and easy to follow, so it doesn’t take much hiking experience to enjoy it. In summer, you’ll see wildflowers along the valley floor, and in winter the area has a more dramatic feel—though conditions can get rough. 

How to hike this route

You’ll want to start your New Zealand itinerary at White Horse Hill Campground, just outside Mount Cook Village. Drive down Hooker Valley Road to the campground, where the trailhead is clearly marked. The track is gravel and well-kept, with signs along the way. Give yourself around 3–4 hours to do the return walk. There’s no permit required.

When to visit Hooker Valley Track

You'll want to go on this New Zealand hike between November and April, the weather tends to be more stable, and the wildflowers are out. Mornings are usually calmer, which means better reflections in the lake. Sunset can be great too, but it gets cold quickly. Winter brings snow and a different kind of scenery, but there’s also a higher risk of avalanches, and the bridges can feel pretty exposed on windy days. Check the forecast before you go.

2. Mount Somers Track

This one’s more of a longer loop—about 17 miles (28 km)—and it takes you through a mix of landscapes. You’ll pass rhyolite cliffs, native bush, waterfalls, and some old coal mining relics from the 1800s. 

Eventually, it opens up into grassy subalpine terrain with views over the Canterbury Plains. You’ll get a bit of everything without straying too far from maintained trails and DOC huts. It doesn’t usually draw big crowds, so it can feel pretty quiet compared to other South Island hikes. You’ll likely hear or see native birds along the way too—keep an eye out for New Zealand falcons.

How to hike this route

The trail starts at the Sharplin Falls Reserve car park, about 15 miles (25 km) from Methven. Look for the turnoff near Highway 72. Most people take 2–3 days to complete the loop. You can hike it in either direction—there are DOC huts at Pinnacles and Woolshed Creek if you want to stay overnight. These huts fill up during summer weekends, so it’s worth booking in advance.

When to visit Mount Somers Track

Late spring through early fall (November to April) is the safest time to go on this New Zealand hike. February and March tend to be the driest months, with decent temps and longer daylight hours. If you are planning your trip to New Zealand in winter, know that snow can cover parts of the track in winter and make exposed sections tricky, especially in July and August. 

3. Pouakai Circuit

This loop trail takes you through a mix of landscapes around Mount Taranaki, an extinct volcano with that classic cone shape, and one of the best places to visit in New Zealand. The full circuit is about 15.5 miles (25 km), and you’ll walk through rainforest, alpine scrub, and eventually across the Ahukawakawa Swamp—an alpine wetland with plants you won’t find anywhere else. 

One of the most memorable parts is the Pouakai Tarns. On a still day, you’ll catch the mountain’s reflection in these small pools. You get right into the heart of this dramatic landscape without needing any technical climbing skills.

How to hike this route

The circuit starts and ends at the North Egmont Visitor Centre. It’s around a 30-minute drive from New Plymouth. Most people take 2 to 3 days to complete the loop. Going clockwise makes the climb a bit more gradual. 

You’ll need to book in advance if you want to sleep at Pouakai Hut or Holly Hut. There are a few steep sections, plus boardwalks and stairs. You’ll need decent fitness but don’t need to be an expert.

When to visit Pouakai Circuit

Most New Zealand travel experts will say that the best stretch of weather is usually between December and March. That’s when the tarns are clear of ice, and you’ve got a better chance of seeing reflections. Early mornings tend to be the calmest. 

Conditions can still change quickly, though—this mountain makes its own weather—so bring rain gear and warm layers just in case. After heavy rain, the swamp section can get pretty messy, and stream crossings might be tricky.
 

4. Roy’s Peak Track

This is a well-known hike near Wanaka with a view that’s been all over social media. The out-and-back trail is just over 10 miles (16 km) and climbs about 4,125 feet (1,258 meters). 

It starts in farmland and winds steadily up through open tussock terrain to a high ridgeline above Lake Wanaka. There’s no shade and not much water along the way, so come prepared. It’s a steady uphill the whole time, but nothing technical. On a clear day, you’ll see mountain ranges in every direction and maybe even catch a kea or falcon overhead.

How to hike this route

The trailhead is just outside of Wanaka, about 4 miles (6 km) from town on the Mount Aspiring Road for this New Zealand hike. There’s a car park, but it gets packed early in the day during summer. The track is easy to follow and well-formed the whole way—just steep. Bring plenty of water and sun protection. Most people take 5 to 7 hours total for the round trip.

When to visit Roy’s Peak

November through April is your best window to go to New Zealand for this trip if you want to avoid snow and unpredictable weather. If you’re hiking in summer, it’s worth starting before sunrise to avoid the crowds and midday sun. Just keep in mind the trail closes for lambing every year from October 1 to November 10. If you're going outside of summer, winter hiking here is only a good idea if you’ve got alpine experience and the right gear.
 

5. Avalanche Peak

Avalanche Peak is a classic day hike in Arthur’s Pass if you want to get up into proper alpine terrain without needing ropes or crampons. 
The return track is only about 3.7 miles (6 km), but you’re climbing around 3,600 feet (1,100 meters), so it’s a real leg-burner. The trail starts in a beech forest and gets steep fast. Once you're above the treeline, it's all tussock and loose rock, with wide views in every direction.

At the top—about 6,014 feet (1,833 meters) up—you can see Mount Rolleston, the Crow Glacier, and the Waimakariri River down in the valley. Kea sometimes hang around up there too, usually just looking for snacks.

How to hike this route

You’ll find the trailhead directly across from the Arthur’s Pass Visitor Centre. There are two main tracks: Avalanche Peak Track is steeper and more direct, while Scotts Track is a bit longer but less intense. 

A lot of people go up one and come down the other. Both are clearly marked in the bush, but once you're above the treeline, you’ll want to be paying attention to the terrain—especially if clouds roll in. An important New Zealand travel tip is to register at the visitor center before heading out. Most people take between 6 and 8 hours to complete the loop.

When to visit Avalanche Peak

The best time is usually between December and April, when the trail’s mostly clear of snow and the weather is a bit more reliable. Always check the forecast before heading up—weather can change fast in the mountains. Avoid it after heavy rain; some parts get slippery, and water crossings can be dicey. 

6. Cascade Saddle

Cascade Saddle is one of those routes that feels like you’re properly out there. It’s about 10.5 miles (17 km) one way through some of Mount Aspiring National Park’s most dramatic terrain. 

You’ll climb steeply through forest, then keep going past alpine tarns, big rock walls, and glacier views that make the effort feel worthwhile. You’ll get clear views of Dart Glacier, Mount Aspiring (Tititea), and the wide Matukituki Valley below. 

Parts of this route were even used in The Lord of the Rings, which makes sense when you see how wild the landscape gets. It’s not a beginner track—it’s exposed, steep in sections, and requires a good head for heights. That said, it's easily one of the best things to do in New Zealand.

How to hike this route

The track starts at the Raspberry Creek car park at the end of Matukituki Valley Road, about 31 miles (50 km) from Wānaka. You’ll follow the West Matukituki River before climbing through forest to Cascade Hut. 

From there, the trail continues up to the saddle—steep going, with some slippery sections depending on the weather. A lot of people turn it into a multi-day trip, continuing on to Dart Hut. It’s a through-hike, not a loop, so you’ll need to plan ahead for transport from the other end. Some parts of the route aren’t marked, so you’ll need to be confident with maps.

When to visit Cascade Saddle

This New Zealand hike is best saved for summer—roughly late December through March—when the snow has melted and the weather’s a bit more predictable. Definitely avoid going after heavy rain or in fog, since the track has some exposed areas that can get dangerous quickly. Don’t attempt it in winter.

Plan for 2 to 3 days if you’re going all the way through to the Dart Valley. Before you go, check in with the DOC office in Wānaka—conditions can change quickly, and they’ll have the latest updates.

7. Angelus Hut Track

If you're up for a bit of a challenge and want to get into real alpine terrain, the Angelus Hut Track in Nelson Lakes National Park is worth looking into. It takes you up to Lake Angelus, which sits at about 5,400 feet (1,650 meters), surrounded by rugged peaks and wide valleys. There’s a DOC hut right by the lake that sleeps 28 people.

The most common way up is via Robert Ridge. It’s a long, exposed ridge walk, and while the views stretch for miles on a clear day, it’s not something you want to be doing if the weather’s looking rough. Cloud and wind roll in quickly here, and once you’re on the ridge, there’s not much shelter.

At the hut, it’s a mix of hikers from all over—everyone usually winds down with a hot meal, and there’s a good chance you’ll end up chatting with strangers over tea or instant noodles. If you’re lucky with the weather, the reflections on the lake in the morning or evening can be pretty striking.

How to hike this route

You’ll start from the Mount Robert Car Park, just outside St. Arnaud. To get up to the ridge, you can take either the steeper Pinchgut Track or the slightly longer Paddys Track. From there, it’s around 6 to 8 hours across alpine terrain to reach the hut. If you want to make it a loop, you can come back down via the Cascade Track (5–6 hours) or Speargrass Track (4–5 hours).

Book your hut stay ahead of time if you're going during the main season (November to April)—you’ll need to go through the Department of Conservation (DOC). Bring decent hiking boots, layers for warmth, rain gear, enough food, and plenty of water. Check the weather forecast before heading out, and don’t go up if it looks sketchy. That ridge can turn bad quickly.

When to visit Angelus Hut Track

December through April is the most reliable window, weather-wise for this New Zealand hike. January and February are the warmest months, and there’s more daylight to work with. Wildflowers are usually out during that time too.

Which should you choose? North or South Island in New Zealand: which is best.

8. Pinnacles Track

The Pinnacles Track, also known as the Kauaeranga Kauri Trail, is a good overnight option in the Coromandel. It follows old logging routes used in the early 1900s, so you’ll see stone steps, swing bridges, and remains from that era along the way. The trail climbs up through native forest, with a summit that gives wide views over the peninsula and coastline.

The trail’s got a nice mix of bush and history—big rata trees, nikau palms, and plenty of clear streams. It’s not a technical walk, but it does have a steady climb, and the final section to the summit has some ladders and stairs.

The Pinnacles Hut is big—80 beds—and is popular with first-timers doing their first overnight hike. It can get social, but you’ll usually find a quiet corner if you’re after a bit of space. If you're up for it, catching the sunrise from the top is worth setting the alarm for.

How to hike this route

Start at the end of Kauaeranga Valley Road, about 8 miles (13 kilometers) from Thames. Most people go up the Webb Creek Track—it takes around 3 to 4 hours to reach the hut. From there, it’s another 40 minutes or so each way to get to the summit.

If you want to make it a loop, you can return via the Billygoat Track. That section passes waterfalls and remnants of the old kauri logging operations. The full loop is about 10.5 miles (17 kilometers) over two days. You’ll need to book a bed at the hut in advance through DOC.

When to visit Pinnacles Track

You can hike this trail any time of year, but each season’s a bit different. Summer (December to February) is the most popular—warm days, easy stream crossings—but it does fill up fast. Autumn (March to May) is cooler and a bit quieter. 

Winter (June to August) can be slick if it’s been raining, but on clear days the views go for miles. Spring (September to November) usually means new growth and mild temperatures.
 

9. Mount Maunganui Summit Track

Mount Maunganui, or Mauao, is an extinct volcanic cone that rises about 760 feet (232 meters) above sea level. It sits right at the entrance to Tauranga Harbour and is easy to recognize from just about anywhere in town. The name means “caught by the morning sun”.

It’s a short but steep walk to the top, and the views are well worth the effort. From the summit, you’ll get a full 360-degree view—white-sand beaches stretching up and down the coast, the Pacific Ocean out front, and the harbor tucked in behind. 

The mountain is also an important cultural site for local Māori, and if you pay attention, you’ll spot traces of ancient pā (fortified villages) along the way.

How to hike this route

There are a few ways to reach the summit. The Waikorire Track is steeper and has steps, while the Oruahine Track climbs more gradually. Both start near the Mount Maunganui Surf Club on the ocean side. If you’re after a slower climb, the 4WD track from Pilot Bay is a longer, more gradual option.

It usually takes about 40 minutes to reach the summit for most. You’ll find water fountains and public toilets at the base. If you’ve got extra time, the Base Track is a flat loop around the bottom of the mountain—around 2.1 miles (3.4 km)—and it’s a nice way to wind down after the climb.

When to visit Mount Maunganui Summit Track

You can walk this New Zealand hike year-round, but early mornings in summer (December to February) are a good call—cooler temps and fewer people. Sunset is another nice time, especially for the light and the quieter trails.

If you're up for an early start, sunrise is one of the best times to climb. The light over the ocean is worth it, and it stays cooler too. During the peak holiday season (late December to January), it’s better to go early or later in the day to skip the crowds.

In winter (June to August), you’ll get crisp, clear air but should expect wind at the top. Spring (September to November) is milder, and autumn (March to May) tends to be settled with cooler evenings.

10. Mount Taranaki Summit

Mount Taranaki, also known as Taranaki Maunga, is a dormant volcano on the North Island that reaches 8,261 feet (2,518 meters). 

Its almost perfect cone shape makes it hard to miss, and it’s known for being one of the tougher—but most satisfying—day hikes in New Zealand. The trail to the summit takes you through a mix of landscapes: forest, alpine tussock, loose scree, and a challenging rock scramble called “The Lizard.”

Reaching the summit gives you wide views in every direction. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see the Tasman Sea to the west and mountain ranges to the east. The mountain is a sacred place for local Māori and last erupted in the 1850s. It’s a meaningful climb, but also one of the more dangerous ones—weather can change fast, and preparation is key.

How to hike this route

Start at the North Egmont Visitor Centre, about a 30-minute drive from New Plymouth. The track begins on a boardwalk and quickly turns into a steep service road nicknamed “The Puffer.” That leads to Tahurangi Lodge, and from there, it gets rougher.

You’ll head into Hongi Valley, climb up scree slopes, and then scramble up The Lizard. The last stretch crosses a crater that usually holds snow, even in summer. The whole thing takes 8 to 10 hours return, so it’s a full-day commitment.

When to visit Mount Taranaki

Late December through April is generally the safest time to go on this New Zealand hike, since snow and ice are usually cleared from the main trail. Still, this mountain is known for changing weather, so check the MetService forecast before you set out.
You’ll want to start early—around 6:00 AM is common—so you have enough daylight to finish safely. 

11. Okarito Trig Walk

The Okarito Trig Walk is a short, rewarding hike on New Zealand’s West Coast. It’s a 2.6-mile (4.2-km) return walk through coastal rainforest that ends at a viewpoint with a wide-open look at three distinct landscapes: the Tasman Sea, the Okarito Lagoon (New Zealand’s largest unmodified wetland), and the Southern Alps, including Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.

What’s great about this track is how little effort it takes to reach that kind of view. Early surveyors like Julius von Haast once used the viewpoint as a trig station, but today you’re more likely to see birdwatchers and photographers—especially around sunset when the mountains light up.

The area is home to more than 70 bird species, including the rare white heron/kōtuku and the endangered rowi kiwi, which only lives around Okarito.

How to hike this route

Start at the southern end of Okarito village. The track shares its first section with the Wetland Walk and Three Mile Track.

After about 15 minutes, you’ll see a turnoff for the Trig Walk. From there, the trail heads gently uphill through native bush. It’s been rerouted in recent years to avoid steps and make the incline easier, so it’s manageable for most people.

When to visit Okarito Trig

Your best bet is between October and April for this New Zealand hike. Mornings usually bring the clearest views of the Southern Alps before clouds start to build, while sunset is ideal for golden light. In summer (December through February), go early or late in the day to avoid the midday heat. Autumn (March–April) tends to be quieter, and the forest takes on warmer tones.

12. Ben Lomond Track

Ben Lomond is one of the go-to day hikes in Queenstown. It climbs to 5,735 feet (1,748 meters), starting right from town and finishing with wide views over Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. The trail heads through Douglas fir forest, then opens up into alpine tussock with big skies and views the whole way.

You can either stop at the saddle—about 3 to 4 hours return—or continue all the way to the summit, which takes around 6 to 8 hours return. The full hike is steep in parts, but you’re getting serious alpine scenery without needing ropes or technical gear, and it’s all right on Queenstown’s doorstep.

How to hike this route

You’ll start on the Tiki Trail, which begins next to the Skyline Gondola on Brecon Street. It climbs through the forest to the Skyline complex. If you’d rather save your legs, you can take the gondola up. 

From there, pick up the Ben Lomond Track—it’s clearly marked. The trail becomes more open after the treeline and climbs steadily to the saddle. If you’re feeling up for it, the push to the summit is steeper but manageable in good conditions.

When to visit Ben Lomond

October through April is the safest window for hiking this New Zealand hike. Summer (December–February) has the longest days, but the trail can get crowded and hot—starting early helps. Spring and autumn are quieter and still relatively warm. 

13. Diamond Lake Track

The Diamond Lake Track is a great short hike just outside of Wanaka. It’s a 1.5 mile (2.5 km) loop that climbs steadily alongside Diamond Lake and then heads up to a few viewpoints where you can look out over Lake Wanaka, Mount Aspiring, and the Southern Alps. 

It’s an easy way to get a feel for the region’s alpine scenery without committing to a big day hike. The track itself winds through native shrub and some exposed rocky areas, and you’ll see a few signs along the way explaining how the area was shaped by glaciers.

How to hike this route

The track starts from a car park on Mount Aspiring Road, about 7.5 miles (12 km) west of Wanaka. It’s best to follow the loop counterclockwise—it makes the climb a bit more gradual. The total elevation gain is around 650 feet (200 meters), and there are steps and handrails where it gets steep. If you’ve got the time, it’s worth taking the side trails up to the Lake Viewpoint and the Rocky Mountain Summit for a wider view.

When to visit Diamond Lake Track

Late March through May is a nice time to visit—the hills around the lake turn red and gold in autumn, and the reflections on the water can be really striking. Early mornings sometimes bring in a layer of fog, which usually clears by mid-morning. In summer, it can get hot on the exposed parts of the trail.

14. Pororari River Track

This trail follows the Pororari River through a limestone gorge in Paparoa National Park, just inland from Punakaiki on the West Coast. It’s a 4.3-mile (7 km) return walk, mostly flat, and lined with towering ferns, beech trees, and nikau palms. 

The river runs a clear blue-green, and the cliffs on either side are pretty striking. It’s one of those places that feels a bit otherworldly—quiet except for the sound of the river and birds like fantails, tui, and, if you’re lucky, the occasional blue duck.

How to hike this route

You’ll find the trailhead at the northern end of Punakaiki village, near the Pancake Rocks. There’s a Department of Conservation parking area just off the main road. 

The path follows the river upstream along a gravel trail, with a few bridges to cross. It’s well-maintained and easy to follow—plan for about 2–3 hours round trip. If you’re up for more, you can extend the walk by linking up with the Inland Pack Track and coming back via the Punakaiki River, making a loop of around 9.3 miles (15 km).

When to visit Pororari River Track

The trail looks especially good after light rain, when the waterfalls come to life and the river turns a more vivid shade. Mornings are usually quieter and better for photos and birdwatching. Because this is the West Coast, rain can be unpredictable, so it’s best to avoid it during or right after a heavy downpour—river levels can rise quickly. 

15. Mueller Hut Track

The Mueller Hut Track is a demanding alpine hike that gives you big views for the effort. It’s a 10.4 mile (5.2 km) return trail that climbs over 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) from Aoraki/Mount Cook Village up to Mueller Hut, which sits at about 5,900 feet (1,800 meters) on the Sealy Range.

Along the way, you pass through a mix of terrain—starting in the valley, then heading up through tussock-covered slopes, across boulder fields, and eventually into snow and scree as you approach the ridge. From the hut, you’re surrounded by panoramic views of glaciers, peaks, and ice cliffs, with Aoraki/Mount Cook right there in front of you.

Spending the night at the hut means you’ll catch sunset colors across the range and have a chance to see the stars on a clear night. 

How to hike this route

The walk starts at White Horse Hill campground in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. You’ll follow the Kea Point Track briefly before beginning the climb up Sealy Tarns Track—this section includes around 2,200 stairs, so it’s a good idea to pace yourself early on.

From the tarns, the route becomes more rugged. You'll follow poles through a boulder field and up loose scree toward the ridge. The final stretch runs through exposed alpine terrain to the hut. Mueller Hut has 28 bunks and needs to be booked through the Department of Conservation ahead of time, especially in summer.

When to visit Mueller Hut Track

The most stable window is between December and March. By then, most of the snow has melted from the track itself, though the higher peaks usually still have coverage. 

If you're thinking about going in November or April, keep in mind that snow and ice are still possible on the upper sections—so come prepared.