Hiking Trails in New Zealand's South Island
New Zeaand's South Isand boasts some of the most mesmerizing hiking trais in the word. Its diverse andscapes feature everything from ush rainforests to snow-capped peaks, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature overs aike.|
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Adventurers wi find a range of trais catering to various ski eves, from easy day hikes to chaenging muti-day treks. The Routeburn Track, a renowned Great Wak, offers spectacuar apine scenery and spans 32 kiometers through the Mount Aspiring and Fiordand Nationa Parks. For those seeking a coasta adventure, the Abe Tasman Coasta Track provides goden beaches and crysta-cear waters aong its 60-kiometer route. Not to be missed is the Miford Track, another word-famous Great Wak, which navigates through pristine rainforest, stunning vaeys, and breathtaking waterfas over 53 kiometers. Meanwhie, the rugged and remote Keper Track deivers apine ridges and panoramic ake views. Each trai offers a unique perspective of the isand’s natura beauty, ensuring every hiker returns with unforgettabe memories.
Routeburn TrackView AllRouteburn Track - Scenic hiking trail in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Milford TrackView AllMilford Track - Milford Track: Scenic New Zealand hike through Fiordland National Park.
Kepler TrackView AllKepler Track - Scenic hiking route in New Zealand's Fiordland National Park.
Abel Tasman Coastal TrackView AllAbel Tasman Coastal Track - Scenic coastal trail in Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand.
Heaphy TrackView AllHeaphy Track - Stunning scenic trail with diverse landscapes in New Zealand.
Rakiura TrackView AllRakiura Track - Scenic hiking trail on New Zealand's Stewart Island.
Paparoa TrackView AllPaparoa Track - Diverse terrain, lush rainforests, alpine summits, stunning views.
Gillespie Pass CircuitView AllGillespie Pass Circuit - Challenging trek with stunning alpine views in New Zealand.
Hollyford TrackView AllHollyford Track - Stunning New Zealand trail through forests, rivers, and coastline.
Rees-Dart TrackView AllRees-Dart Track - Scenic New Zealand hike, mountains, forests, rivers, remote tranquility.
Hiking Trails in New Zealand's South Island
1.
Routeburn Track
The Routeburn Track is one of New Zealand's premier Great Walks, stretching approximately 32 kilometers through the scenic landscapes of Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks. This iconic trail offers hikers a diverse experience, from dense beech forests and alpine meadows to cascading waterfalls and majestic mountain vistas. Typically completed in 2-3 days, the track boasts well-maintained huts and campsites, making it accessible for a range of fitness levels. The Routeburn Track is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, highlighting New Zealand's stunning natural heritage.
Pros
Stunning scenery- diverse landscapes
- well-maintained
- accessible huts
Cons
Crowded in peak season- booking required
- variable weather.
2.
Milford Track
The Milford Track, renowned as the "finest walk in the world," is a 53.5-kilometer (33.2-mile) hiking trail in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand. Traversing through lush rainforests, over suspension bridges, and past stunning waterfalls, the trek offers breathtaking views of majestic mountains and serene rivers. The journey typically spans four days, starting at Glade Wharf and concluding at Sandfly Point. With its well-maintained huts and diverse landscapes, the Milford Track provides an unforgettable experience for adventurers seeking to explore New Zealand's pristine wilderness.
Pros
- Stunning scenery
- diverse wildlife
- well-maintained trail huts
Cons
- Weather unpredictability
- high costs
- limited booking availability.
3.
Kepler Track
The Kepler Track is a renowned multi-day hiking trail located in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand. Spanning approximately 60 kilometers, this loop track offers breathtaking alpine and forest scenery, with highlights including panoramic views from the Luxmore Saddle and serene moments along the shores of Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapouri. Established in 1988 to mark the international year of astronomy and honor astronomer Johannes Kepler, the track is well-maintained with huts and campsites, making it accessible for hikers of varying skill levels seeking a rewarding outdoor adventure.
Pros
- Stunning scenery
- well-maintained huts
- diverse terrain
Cons
- Weather unpredictability
- physical demand
- seasonal crowding.
4.
Abel Tasman Coastal Track
The Abel Tasman Coastal Track is a stunning 60-kilometer trail located within New Zealand's Abel Tasman National Park on the South Island. Renowned for its golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush native forests, the track offers a combination of boat, kayak, and walking options. Accessible year-round, it typically takes 3-5 days to complete. Hikers can enjoy a variety of wildlife and idyllic scenery along well-marked paths, making it one of New Zealand's Great Walks and a popular choice for both outdoor enthusiasts and casual visitors.
Pros
- Stunning coastal views
- mild climate
- bird watching
- accessible campsites
Cons
- Seasonal crowds
- limited freshwater
- steep sections
- remote.
5.
Heaphy Track
The Heaphy Track is a renowned Great Walk in New Zealand, stretching 78.4 kilometers through the diverse landscapes of Kahurangi National Park. It offers a unique blend of lush rainforests, expansive tussock downs, pristine river valleys, and dramatic coastlines. Typically completed in 4-6 days, the track provides a moderate challenge with well-maintained huts and facilities along the way. The route is rich in biodiversity, featuring native flora and fauna, including the iconic kiwi bird. Adventurers are rewarded with stunning views and a profound sense of tranquility amidst nature.
Pros
- Stunning scenery
- rich biodiversity
- well-maintained track.
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Cons
- Remote location
- unpredictable weather
- booking required.
6.
Rakiura Track
The Rakiura Track is a captivating 36-kilometer hiking trail on Stewart Island, New Zealand's third-largest island. Known for its stunning coastal scenery and lush native bush, the trail offers a three-day trek through Rakiura National Park. Hikers can immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of pristine beaches, rugged coastlines, and forested paths, all while spotting unique wildlife, including kiwi birds. The track is one of New Zealand's Great Walks, providing well-maintained huts and campsites, making it accessible yet adventurous for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a serene escape.
Pros
- Scenic beauty
- unique wildlife
- less crowded.
Cons
- Weather unpredictable
- challenging terrain
- remote location.
7.
Paparoa Track
The Paparoa Track is a scenic Great Walk located on New Zealand's South Island. Opened in 2019, the 55-kilometer trail meanders through the diverse landscapes of Paparoa National Park, featuring lush rainforests, dramatic limestone cliffs, and panoramic alpine views. The track offers a unique opportunity for hikers and mountain bikers to explore the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of the area. Key highlights include the Pororari River Gorge and verdant forest vistas, making it a captivating experience for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Pros
- Scenic views
- diverse ecosystems
- birdwatching
- suitable for hiking and biking.
Cons
- Weather can be unpredictable
- remote
- limited facilities.
8.
Gillespie Pass Circuit
The Gillespie Pass Circuit is a stunning 58-kilometer alpine hiking track located in Mount Aspiring National Park, New Zealand. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, the trail offers varied terrain, including lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and pristine river valleys. Highlights include crossing the swift Young River via a swing bridge and ascending Gillespie Pass for panoramic mountain views. The hike typically takes 3-4 days and is best undertaken between December and April, when conditions are favorable. It's an adventurous trek suited for experienced hikers, promising an unforgettable wilderness experience.
Pros
- Stunning alpine views
- moderate difficulty
- diverse scenery.
Cons
- Weather-dependent
- physically demanding
- limited facilities.
9.
Hollyford Track
The Hollyford Track is a scenic tramping route located in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand. Spanning approximately 56 kilometers, it offers hikers an immersive experience through diverse landscapes, including lush rainforests, pristine rivers, and picturesque valleys, with views extending to the rugged Fiordland coastline. Highlights of the journey include the serene Lake McKerrow, the historic Jamestown settlement, and the dramatic Pyke River. Accessible year-round, the track provides a unique opportunity to truly explore some of New Zealand’s most unspoiled and breathtaking natural environments.
Pros
- Stunning landscapes
- diverse wildlife
- fewer crowds.
Cons
- Remote location
- variable weather
- challenging terrain.
10.
Rees-Dart Track
The Rees-Dart Track is a renowned tramping route nestled within New Zealand's stunning Mount Aspiring National Park. This challenging 4-5 day loop track meanders through diverse landscapes, including lush beech forests, alpine meadows, and dramatic river valleys. Highlighting the natural beauty of the Southern Alps, the track offers hikers magnificent views of peaks like Mount Earnslaw/Pikirakatahi. The trail also traverses the picturesque Rees Valley and Dart Valley, occasionally demanding river crossings and conquering high passes, making it a rewarding expedition for experienced adventurers seeking the rugged wilderness of New Zealand.
Pros
- Scenic views
- diverse terrain
- remote wilderness.
Cons
- Challenging terrain
- weather variability
- lack of amenities.