New Zealand punches far above its weight on the walk front. Given its size, New Zealand has a hugely disproportionate share of the world’s best walks.

The North Island is famous for its active central volcanic plateau, replete with geysers, mud pools and relaxing hot springs, as well as its vast lakes.

The South Island contains the massive southern alps - often compared to the mountain regions of Europe - and the extraordinary fiordland.

On this page, New Zealand’s iconic walks are divided between the North Island and the South Island. Click on the North Island or South Island button below to skip to that section, or just scroll down.

Note that our iconic walk summaries refer to the whole walk - it is usually possible to do part only.

Able Tasman Coast Track

Enjoy picturesque swimming coves and lush bushland on one of New Zealand’s “Great Walks”.

⏱ Duration: 5 days
🗺 Distance: 60 km
⛰ Difficulty: Easy
🗓 Best Time: Dec - March

Milford Track

One of the best in the world, this walk boasts a spectacular route through outstanding natural beauty.

⏱ Duration: 4 days
🗺 Distance: 53 km
⛰ Difficulty: Moderate
🗓 Best Time: October - April

Routeburn Track

Be immersed in New Zealand’s pristine high country with incredible mountain views and lush forest.

⏱ Duration: 3 - 4 days
🗺 Distance: 33 km
⛰ Difficulty: Moderate
🗓 Best Time: October - April

Kepler Track

Dramatic mountainous terrain that’s less busy but no less spectacular than NZ’s other Fiordland walks.

⏱ Duration: 4 days
🗺 Distance: 61 km (circular)
⛰ Difficulty: Moderate
🗓 Best Time: October - April

Heaphy Track

Diverse scenery including the Enchanted Forest and the Nikau palm groves on the upper West Coast.

⏱ Duration: 4-5 days
🗺 Distance: 78 km
⛰ Difficulty: Moderate
🗓 Best Time: October - April

Rakiura Track

Stewart Island is a beautiful, remote, untouched island with abundant forests and wildlife.

⏱ Duration: 3 days
🗺 Distance: 32 km
⛰ Difficulty: Moderate
🗓 Best Time: October - May

Queen Charlotte Track

This stunning track enables walkers to explore the Marlborough Sounds region with its intricate maze of waterways.

⏱ Duration: 4-6 days
🗺 Distance: 70 km
⛰ Difficulty: Moderate
🗓 Best Time: October - April

Paparoa Track

New Zealand’s newest Great Walk located in the Paparoa National Park on the wild west coast of the South Island.

⏱ Duration: 3-4 days
🗺 Distance: 55 km
⛰ Difficulty: Moderate
🗓 Best Time: September - May