New Zealand Walking – 9 Great Tracks
- By Tony Maniscalco
- Published 10/2/2011
- Travel
- Unrated
If you’re looking for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation, then you can’t do better than head off on holiday to explore the spectacular landscape of New Zealand. Walking is the very best way to experience the real heart of a country that, although relatively young in historical terms, has a warm and engaging soul as old as the world itself. The great diversity of the country is one of its main attractions, but once you’re there you’ll realise that the true secret of its popularity as a walking destination is New Zealand’s incredible accessibility. You don’t need to be a seasoned hiker to enjoy New Zealand, walking here can be just as enjoyable for the novice too.
Rakiura Track
At the very bottom of New Zealand is Stewart Island and the Rakiura Track. This peaceful, bird-filled region is perfect for a gentle stroll through lush, cool forests followed by a picnic lunch on the beach and a dip in turquoise waters.... heaven.
Kepler Track
Discover the glacial beauty of New Zealand, walking this beautiful track through the Fjordlands of the South Island; through forests, past waterfalls and into spectacular valleys.
Routeburn Track
Still in the Fjordlands of the South Island, this trail will introduce you to the jewel-coloured lakes and snow-capped peaks of the Mount Aspiring National Park. In its entirety, the Routeburn Track is one of the shortest of New Zealand’s ‘Great Walks’, but the scenery more than makes up for it!
Milford Track
This is New Zealand walking at its
best. The world-famous Milford Track is picture-postcard perfect, with breath-taking views and invigorating hikes through the heart of the Fjordland National Park.
Heaphy Track
For the best of the rugged West Coast scenery, a day spent hiking along the Heaphy Track will take you through a range of different landscapes and along the windswept coastline.
Abel Tasman Coast Track
Stroll along deserted beaches at sunset, and marvel at the ancient rock formations of the Abel Tasman National Park. Located at the top of the South Island of New Zealand, walking the coast track offers easy conditions and wonderful scenery.
Tongariro Northern Circuit
The North Island reveals the incredible prehistoric landscape of Tongariro National Park. You will circumnavigate the base of the intimidating Mount Ngauruhoe, a still-active volcano, and take in the fascinating craters, lava flows and explosion pits.
Lake Waikaremoana Track
The magical region around Lake Waikaremoana will take you on a calming journey through untouched rainforests and lush wetlands.
Whanganui River
For a little New Zealand walking with a difference, combine your hike with a canoe or kayak ride down the pristine Whanganui River which runs through the Whanganui National Park. New Zealand’s longest navigable river winds for over 300km out into the Tasman Sea.
There are so many walking trails and tracks to choose from in New Zealand and, whether you are super-fit or just a weekend rambler, New Zealand walking holidays are the most rewarding way to see the country. Pick your route, lace up your boots and get walking!
Rakiura Track
At the very bottom of New Zealand is Stewart Island and the Rakiura Track. This peaceful, bird-filled region is perfect for a gentle stroll through lush, cool forests followed by a picnic lunch on the beach and a dip in turquoise waters.... heaven.
Kepler Track
Discover the glacial beauty of New Zealand, walking this beautiful track through the Fjordlands of the South Island; through forests, past waterfalls and into spectacular valleys.
Routeburn Track
Still in the Fjordlands of the South Island, this trail will introduce you to the jewel-coloured lakes and snow-capped peaks of the Mount Aspiring National Park. In its entirety, the Routeburn Track is one of the shortest of New Zealand’s ‘Great Walks’, but the scenery more than makes up for it!
Milford Track
This is New Zealand walking at its
Heaphy Track
For the best of the rugged West Coast scenery, a day spent hiking along the Heaphy Track will take you through a range of different landscapes and along the windswept coastline.
Abel Tasman Coast Track
Stroll along deserted beaches at sunset, and marvel at the ancient rock formations of the Abel Tasman National Park. Located at the top of the South Island of New Zealand, walking the coast track offers easy conditions and wonderful scenery.
Tongariro Northern Circuit
The North Island reveals the incredible prehistoric landscape of Tongariro National Park. You will circumnavigate the base of the intimidating Mount Ngauruhoe, a still-active volcano, and take in the fascinating craters, lava flows and explosion pits.
Lake Waikaremoana Track
The magical region around Lake Waikaremoana will take you on a calming journey through untouched rainforests and lush wetlands.
Whanganui River
For a little New Zealand walking with a difference, combine your hike with a canoe or kayak ride down the pristine Whanganui River which runs through the Whanganui National Park. New Zealand’s longest navigable river winds for over 300km out into the Tasman Sea.
There are so many walking trails and tracks to choose from in New Zealand and, whether you are super-fit or just a weekend rambler, New Zealand walking holidays are the most rewarding way to see the country. Pick your route, lace up your boots and get walking!
Tony Maniscalco
Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. While in New Zealand walking with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you can see the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.
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