One of the great advantages of taking a motorhome holiday in New Zealand is how easy it is to park up by a trailhead and spend an hour or two stretching your legs. This hiking paradise is just waiting to be explored.
The country has a diversity of trails that few other destinations can rival. Expect to discover sublime coastal walks, magnificent glacial hikes, lush rainforest trails and remote alpine treks.
In this blog, we highlight some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking hiking trails. We take you from the Tongariro Alpine Crossing to the Milford Track, the Pouakai Crossing to the Abel Tasman Coast Track, and the Routeburn Track to the Te Paki Coastal Track.
We also chat with Wilderness Motorhomes’ Lead Content Creator, Craig McClelland — who’s travelled to more than 50 countries and hiked many trails across the North and South Islands.
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North Island hiking trails
Beginning at the top of the North Island, we highlight the best day hikes in New Zealand as we journey south.
Te Paki Coastal Track
One of Northland’s highlights is undoubtedly the Te Paki Coastal Track. It’s an incredibly scenic section of coastline that stretches from Spirits Bay to Te Paki Stream — passing by the idyllic Cape Reinga Lighthouse.
The trail traverses a dramatic coastline and offers you breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, native bush and impressive sand dunes. The entire hike takes three to four days, but you can easily walk a section in a few hours or less.
Get the latest info on the Te Paki Coastal Track and read our Northland travel guide for other things to do in the region.
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St Paul’s Rock Track
This brief yet very rewarding walk is located in Whangaroa, Northland. A steep incline with a last-ascent chain ladder leads to a stunning 360 degree view of the town, bays and islands.
The Rock is a volcanic plug — an unusual geological formation created when magma solidified within the volcanic vent.
For the most spectacular views, aim to be at the rock close to sunrise or sunset, but remember to wear dependable footwear.
Unearth more about St Paul’s Rock Track and the journey north from Auckland to Cape Reinga.
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Kauaeranga Kauri Trail (Pinnacles Walk)
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Image by Jack Austin and thecoromandel.com
The peak of a superb day walk is high above the picturesque Coromandel Peninsula. The Pinnacles Walk is well-known in these parts, offering stunning peninsula views from the top of the Coromandel Ranges.
If you plan to go all the way to the summit, the final ascent involves some climbing ladders. You’ll then be rewarded with impressive bush, mountain and coastline views.
Start your hike early, and you’ll have no trouble reaching the summit and returning to your motorhome in one day.
Find out more about the Kauaeranga Kauri Trail and The Coromandel.
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Mount Maunganui Summit Track
The standout feature on Tauranga’s landscape is Mauao — Mount Maunganui. Mauao is an extinct volcano, is hugely popular with locals and tourists, and means caught by the morning light in Māori.
Walking to the 232m summit will take 45 minutes to an hour. Multiple trails exist, including one that circumnavigates the Mount. Once you reach the top, you’ll be glad you made the effort — as the 360 degree panoramic views across the Pacific Ocean, Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty are superb.
Learn more about the Mount Maunganui Summit Track and Tauranga in our Auckland to Waitomo Caves road trip itinerary.
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Cooks Cove Walkway
Image by Mel Ma'afu
This historic and scenic coastal walk is situated in Tolaga Bay on the East Coast of the North Island. It’s a famous spot because Captain James Cook landed here in 1769 during his circumnavigation of New Zealand.
Keep two to three hours free for this relaxing walk to and from Cooks Cove. The coastline, regenerating forest and the hole-in-the-wall memorial are highlights along the way.
You’ll also pass a prominent landmark called Te Pourewa, the beacon of light. A 12m high sculpture, it serves as a memorial to Tupaia, the Tahitian navigator and priest who accompanied Cook on his voyage.
Unearth more information on Cooks Cove Walkway and where to camp on the East Cape.
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The Cooks Cove trailhead is adjacent to Tolaga Bay Holiday Park — making it the perfect campground for a night or two.
Be sure to take a small day pack with togs, towels and snacks, as the cove is an idyllic place for swimming or hanging about. If the weather's good, you may want to stay here for a few hours.
Craig McClelland — Wilderness’ Lead Content Creator |
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Tongariro Alpine Crossing
One of the world’s best one day walks, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is in the heart of Tongariro National Park. This 19.4km journey is something special as it takes you across a living, breathing volcanic plateau.
You’ll be rewarded with stunning photo opportunities of the bright turquoise crater lakes and the volcanic peaks of Ngauruhoe, Tongariro and Ruapehu. You’ll also enjoy stunning 360 degree views of the Central Plateau.
Ensure you prepare for the elements, as the weather can throw anything at you. And if it does turn for the worst, be familiar with your motorhome’s entertainment options.
A few businesses specialise in transporting hikers from their accommodation to the trailhead — and then picking them up at the other end of the crossing. If you need this assistance, book with one of them in advance.
Get the latest info on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing — a key feature in our Lord of the Rings North Island itinerary.
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Pouakai Crossing
Although underrated compared to the well-known Tongariro Alpine Crossing, the Pouakai Crossing is just as exciting and rewarding.
This half day sub-alpine hike traverses the lower slopes of the mighty Mount Taranaki. You’ll enjoy wide panoramic views, incredible waterfalls, high cliffs and even a moss swamp. If you’re lucky, you’ll also experience the changeable nature of Taranaki with clouds that come and go — sometimes with intense wind speeds.
The Pouakai Crossing is an end-to-end trail, so you’ll need to get dropped off at the start and picked up when you finish.
Prepare for your adventure on the Pouakai Crossing and the rregion of Taranaki.
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Paekākāriki Escarpment Track
This captivating coastal trail isn’t for those with a fear of heights. If you’re not in that camp, set aside a half day to experience one of the most scenic walks in New Zealand.
Located on the Kapiti Coast, the trail spans just over 9km and gains only 200m altitude. Swing bridges are a standout on the Paekākāriki Escarpment Track — and the views of Kapiti Island can’t be understated.
You can find the trailhead near Paekākāriki train station, then expect to encounter more than 1000 steps, native birds and impressive vistas.
Uncover the secrets of the Paekākāriki Escarpment Track and nearby Wellington.
Learn about hiking etiquette in New Zealand before you start out from the trailhead.
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South Island hiking trails
Our best South Island hikes starts with a Great Walk — one of the most fun for all ages and fitness levels.
Abel Tasman Coast Track
One timeless New Zealand Great Walk is the Abel Tasman. It traverses rich golden beaches with crystal clear waters and coastal beech forests — with incredible side trips up rivers and through estuaries.
The Abel Tasman is a multiday hike with campervan access at both ends of the trail. It’s one of the most family-friendly hiking trails in New Zealand — and at 60km long, it takes three to five days to complete the whole track.
Your best option in a motorhome is to head to either Marahau or Totaranui, near the start or end of the track, and do a day walk from there. Alternatively, jump aboard a water taxi in the early morning from Kaiteriteri or Marahau, giving yourself the rest of the day to walk back.
Uncover the Abel Tasman Coast Track and check out our Christchurch to Nelson motorhome itinerary.
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If you want to walk as much of the Abel Tasman as possible but return to your motorhome in the evening, book a few nights at Old McDonalds Farm or Marahau Beach Camp.
Hire a water taxi from Marahau in the early morning. Walking from Onetahuti Bay back to Marahau in under eight hours is feasible if you're fit. You’ll also see more than half of the trail — but just check the tidal crossing times for Bark and Torrent Bays.
Craig McClelland |
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Pororari River Track
Image by Nimmo Photography
The start and end point of one of New Zealand’s newest Great Walks, the Paparoa Track, is also the Pororari River Track. It’s a place where time seems to have stood still.
A majestic place filled with nikau palm trees, limestone cliffs and towering ferns, this river-hugging trail is worth going out of your way to experience. Give yourself at least 90 minutes to follow the track to a suspension bridge and back. Or, if you want to linger longer, continue further inland along the Paparoa Track.
Get to know more about the Pororari River Track and popular Punakaiki.
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The Pororari River Trail is in a superb location. Not only is the scenery like something out of Jurassic Park, but the popular Punakaiki Rocks Hotel & Garden Bar is just across the road — a relaxing spot for lunch after your hike.
Craig McClelland |
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Franz Josef Glacier Walk
Ask most Kiwis about West Coast glaciers and they’ll probably mention Fox and Franz Josef. The Franz Josef Glacier Walk is a highlight that shouldn’t be missed.
Fox and Franz Josef are unique worldwide for their proximity to the coastline — ending amongst lush rainforests and waterfalls. You can:
- Fly by helicopter onto either one and ice hike through blue ice caves
- Drive your motorhome to specific vantage points for dramatic wide views
- Hike towards Franz Josef Glacier.
Discover the Franz Josef Glacier Walk and nearby Fox Glacier.
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Mueller Hut Route
Image by Fay Seah
If you intend to park your campervan or motorhome at White Horse Hill Campground for a few nights to walk near Mount Cook, this epic hike may be for you.
The Mueller Hut Route is a tough, steep climb rising to a high vantage point where glorious views of Aoraki Mount Cook and the surrounding mountains await. Picturesque tarns offer stunning reflections along the way.
Ascending 1040m over 5.2 kilometres, the Mueller Hut Route is arguably one of New Zealand’s most challenging hikes.
Uncover the secrets of the Mueller Hut Route and Mount Cook Village featured in our Christchurch to Queenstown campervan itinerary.
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Earnslaw Burn Track
Image by QueenstownNZ.co.nz
Planning to tramp some of the Routeburn near Glenorchy? Right next door is this outstanding hike to a viewpoint of Earnslaw Burn.
This challenging day trip covers over 25km and has an elevation gain of about 900m, so you’ll need a good fitness base.
The trail climbs and winds through beech forest before reaching a breathtaking valley with views of waterfalls, the Earnslaw Glacier and the surrounding mountains. The glacier is magical — and the gigantic ice formations and cascading falls are captivating.
Discover the Earnslaw Burn Track and the incredible Glenorchy Queenstown Road.
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Routeburn Track
One of New Zealand’s most amazing hikes, the Routeburn provides superlative views of pristine rivers, alpine lakes, mountains and valleys.
Best tackled in summer and its side months, this 32km walk traverses Mount Aspiring National Park and Fiordland National Park in Te Wāhipounamu — meaning the place of greenstone.
If you’re travelling by motorhome, consider a day hike from the Glenorchy end to Routeburn Falls Hut, where the impressive Routeburn Falls cascade is reward enough. If you’re keen on a longer day or you’re into trail running, continue past the hut to the incomparable Lake Harris, the saddle and Conical Hill.
Another alternative is to set off from The Divide in the heart of the Southern Alps. Be prepared for the weather to most likely be chilly and wet. A long day walk will take you to Lake Mackenzie — before you return to your motorhome haven.
Start to plan your adventure on the Routeburn Track and discover what you can see and do along the Milford Road.
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When holidaying in a motorhome, you’ll get the most out of the Routeburn by staying a few nights at Mrs Woolly’s Campground in Glenorchy, Kinloch Campsite or Sylvan Campsite.
These camps aren’t far from the trailhead. With just a day pack, you’ll have time to hike all the way up to the saddle to see spectacular Lake Harris.
Allow at least eight to ten hours on the trail at a steady pace — to return to your motorhome before nightfall.
Craig McClelland |
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Lake Marian Track
Renowned for its stunning alpine scenery and the serenity of chilling out by Lake Marian, this half day hike takes about two hours up and an hour down.
It’s one of the best short walks in Fiordland National Park, so take time to enjoy the lake. Carry a warm layer as you’ll be in alpine conditions.
There’s a consistent slope until you reach the lake, elevating about 400m across a trail that’s not in the best shape. Be aware of slippery rocks and overgrown foliage. When you see the pristine mountains reflected in tranquil Lake Marian, your efforts will feel worth it.
Learn more about Lake Marian Track and check out our Christchurch to Milford Sound road trip itinerary — which passes right by the trailhead.
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Milford Track
Labelled the finest walk in the world and a Great Walk of New Zealand, the Milford Track is a 53km hike starting at Te Anau Downs and finishing at Milford Sound. Along the way, you’ll:
- Cruise across majestic Lake Te Anau
- Meander through beautiful rainforest
- Cross misty wetlands
- Hike over an epic alpine pass
- Get up close to NZ’s highest waterfall — Sutherland Falls.
The Milford is a one-way, four day tramp that isn’t ideal if you hire a motorhome. However, some companies will take you by boat to the trailhead or trail end where you can day walk along the track.
Begin planning your journey on the Milford Track and read our motorhome travel guide to Milford and Doubtful Sounds.
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The Milford Track is on many people’s bucket lists, but hiking the whole trail doesn’t work well with an RV hire.
Your best bet for experiencing some of the track is to stay a night or two at the Rainforest Campervan Park at Milford Sound Lodge. Catch a boat ride in the morning to the trail end at Sandfly Point. The earliest boat departs Deepwater Basin at 8:30am.
If you’re fit and a relatively fast hiker, you could reach breathtaking Sutherland Falls before returning — but a more leisurely stroll would be to Giant Gates Falls and back. Be sure to arrange your return trip, with the last scheduled for 4:30pm.
Craig McClelland |
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FAQs when preparing to hike and walk in NZ’s outdoors
We answer some common queries about hiking in the New Zealand wilderness.
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Check out our motorhome road trip itineraries which pass through New Zealand's best hiking areas.
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