Skip to content
Your guide to New Zealand
OUTDOORNEXT

New Zealand walking tracks

Coastal walks, lakeside trails and mountain hikes.

Essentials
About nearby results

Your location stays in this page's memory. It is not stored, added to links or sent to a server. Leaving or reloading clears it. Distances are straight-line estimates to reference points, not driving distances, track lengths or verified entrances. Not a navigation tool. 4 of 1581 tracks in this collection have source-checked reference points. The others have no nearby distance.

1581 walking tracks in our collection

  • The 42 Traverse
    Area context · Photo: Steven Cox · CC BY 4.0

    The 42 Traverse. Published in DOC's 42 Traverse guide. Photograph date not supplied; this is route-area context, not a verified trailhead or current-condition photograph.

    Photo: Steven Cox / CC BY 4.0 / Details

    Central North Island Walking track

    42 Traverse

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    46 km one way
    Walking time
    1 - 2 days
    Track grade
    Advanced

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • The 42 Traverse is a challenging multi-use 46 km track through the Tongariro Forest Conservation Area.
    • Slip on the 42 Traverse; First published on 18 September 2024. Last reviewed on 29 September 2026.
    • DOC directory time: 1 - 2 days. Grade: Advanced.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • A walker seen from behind carrying a grey and orange backpack, with hills in the background.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Cody Black · Unsplash License

    General backpacking illustration; location unverified. This is not a photograph of the named route or evidence of its terrain, condition or difficulty.

    Photo: Cody Black / Unsplash License / Details

    Otago Walking track

    4WD road from Symes Rd to Waikaia Bush Rd

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    13 km one way
    Walking time
    4 hr one way
    Track grade
    Advanced

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • This 4WD road takes you along the top of the Old Man Range from the top of Symes Road to Waikaia Bush Road. This 4WD road provides great views.
    • DOC directory time: 4 hr one way. Grade: Advanced.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • A walker seen from behind carrying a grey and orange backpack, with hills in the background.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Cody Black · Unsplash License

    General backpacking illustration; location unverified. This is not a photograph of the named route or evidence of its terrain, condition or difficulty.

    Photo: Cody Black / Unsplash License / Details

    Manawatu-Whanganui Walking track

    A-Frame Hut and Takapari Road Track

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
    Walking time
    2 hr 30 min one way
    Track grade
    Advanced

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • From Tamaki West Road end, follow the track up through forest to Takapari Road. From there you’ll follow a bulldozed road 100 m to the hut.
    • DOC directory time: 2 hr 30 min one way. Grade: Advanced.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • A walker seen from behind carrying a grey and orange backpack, with hills in the background.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Cody Black · Unsplash License

    General backpacking illustration; location unverified. This is not a photograph of the named route or evidence of its terrain, condition or difficulty.

    Photo: Cody Black / Unsplash License / Details

    Hawke's Bay Walking track

    A’Deanes Bush Walk

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    1 km loop
    Walking time
    30 min
    Track grade
    Easy

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • Take a walk through A’Deanes Bush Scenic Reserve in beautiful native forest dominated by mataī and kahikatea as well as a large tōtara tree. The reserve is on a flat river terrace.
    • DOC directory time: 30 min. Grade: Easy.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • Walkers on beach.
    Area context · Photo: Department of Conservation (NZ) · CC BY 4.0

    Day 1: Marahau to Anchorage. Published in DOC's Abel Tasman Coast Track guide. Photograph date not supplied; this is route-area context, not a verified trailhead or current-condition photograph.

    Photo: Department of Conservation (NZ) / CC BY 4.0 / Details

    Tasman Walking track

    Abel Tasman Coast Track

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    60 km one way
    Walking time
    3–5 days one way
    Track grade
    Intermediate tramping track

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-09-26. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • A multi-day coastal Great Walk whose overnight sequence must fit the compulsory Awaroa tidal crossing.
    • Awaroa: cross only in daylight, within 1 hr 30 min before to 2 hr after low tide, and only if conditions permit. Storm surge, tide height and rain can narrow the window; there is no bypass.
    • Notices checked 26 September: Bark Bay Hut's stove is unsafe and disconnected; Falls River to Torrent Bay works run 31 August to 23 October 2026; helicopter conifer control is scheduled between Bark Bay and Awaroa during 9 September to 31 October 2026. Follow staff instructions.
    • Checked 26 September 2026. Recheck DOC notices and conditions before travel; this is not a live opening report.
  • A walker seen from behind carrying a grey and orange backpack, with hills in the background.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Cody Black · Unsplash License

    General backpacking illustration; location unverified. This is not a photograph of the named route or evidence of its terrain, condition or difficulty.

    Photo: Cody Black / Unsplash License / Details

    Marlborough Walking track

    Acheron Lookout Loop Walk

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    1 km loop
    Walking time
    20 min
    Track grade
    Easy

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • A short loop walk with views that starts from Acheron Accommodation House.
    • DOC directory time: 20 min. Grade: Easy.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • A walker seen from behind carrying a grey and orange backpack, with hills in the background.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Cody Black · Unsplash License

    General backpacking illustration; location unverified. This is not a photograph of the named route or evidence of its terrain, condition or difficulty.

    Photo: Cody Black / Unsplash License / Details

    Canterbury Walking track

    Acland Falls Track

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    600-800 m one way
    Walking time
    25-30 min
    Track grade
    Easy

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • This track takes you to the 14 m high Acland Falls from Clarke Flat or Te Wanahu Flat.
    • DOC directory time: 25-30 min. Grade: Easy.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • The track crosses Maloney’s Bluff, be careful of the steep drop-off
    Area context · Photo: Nick Sutcliffe · CC BY 4.0

    The track crosses Maloney’s Bluff, be careful of the steep drop-off. Published in DOC's Adams Flat Track guide. Photograph date not supplied; this is route-area context, not a verified trailhead or current-condition photograph.

    Photo: Nick Sutcliffe / CC BY 4.0 / Details

    Tasman Walking track

    Adams Flat Track

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    14 km return | 16 km return return via same track
    Walking time
    4 hr return | 5 hr 20 min return
    Track grade
    Easy; Advanced

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • Walk to a replica goldminer's hut and the site of the Adams Creek Workings.
    • DOC directory time: 4 hr return | 5 hr 20 min return. Grade: Easy; Advanced.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • Pou at Ahuriri Estuary.
    Area context · Photo: Benhi Dixon · CC BY-SA 4.0

    Pou at Ahuriri Estuary, Napier. Published in DOC's Ahuriri Estuary Walking Track guide. Photograph date not supplied; this is route-area context, not a verified trailhead or current-condition photograph.

    Photo: Benhi Dixon / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Details

    Hawke's Bay Walking track

    Ahuriri Estuary Walking Track

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    2.8 km one way
    Walking time
    1 hr
    Track grade
    Easy

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • View a community of wading birds, fish, mud dwellers and aquatic plant life from the estuary track and boardwalk. Over 70 species of resident and migratory waterbirds use the estuary as a feeding and resting area.
    • DOC directory time: 1 hr. Grade: Easy.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • A walker seen from behind carrying a grey and orange backpack, with hills in the background.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Cody Black · Unsplash License

    General backpacking illustration; location unverified. This is not a photograph of the named route or evidence of its terrain, condition or difficulty.

    Photo: Cody Black / Unsplash License / Details

    Canterbury Walking track

    Ahuriri Valley Track

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
    Walking time
    6 hr one way
    Track grade
    Advanced

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • This track follows the Ahuriri River. Three huts on route provide several options.
    • DOC directory time: 6 hr one way. Grade: Advanced.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • Akaroa head.
    Area context · Photo: Michael Smeaton · CC BY 4.0

    Akaroa head. Published in DOC's Akaroa Head Scenic Reserve walk guide. Photograph date not supplied; this is route-area context, not a verified trailhead or current-condition photograph.

    Photo: Michael Smeaton / CC BY 4.0 / Details

    Canterbury Walking track

    Akaroa Head Scenic Reserve walk

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    1 km return via same track
    Walking time
    40 min return
    Track grade
    Easy

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • Easily accessed from Akaroa with a 4WD, this short walk includes the relics of a rich history, dramatic views and stunning wildlife.
    • DOC directory time: 40 min return. Grade: Easy.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • Coastal vegetation and the sea at Uretiti, with Hen Island on the horizon under the moon.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Proshoot (Keith Bennett) · CC BY-SA 3.0

    The sea outlook from Uretiti's DOC campsite, photographed on 18 October 2013. This coastal view does not show the camping pitches. Not a verified photograph of the place or itinerary in this guide.

    Photo: Proshoot (Keith Bennett) / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Details

    Northland Walking track

    Akeake Historic Reserve Track

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    1.4 km return via same track
    Walking time
    15-30 min one way
    Track grade
    Easy to intermediate walking track

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-09-26. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • A short stepped headland walk from Opito Bay with signed choices towards Tareha pa and sheltered coastal viewpoints.
    • Checked 2026-09-26, not a live opening guarantee. Recheck the manager's notices and signs before departure.
    • The headline times are one way and vary by branch. Steep cliffs occur beside the paths; dogs and fires are prohibited.
  • A walker seen from behind carrying a grey and orange backpack, with hills in the background.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Cody Black · Unsplash License

    General backpacking illustration; location unverified. This is not a photograph of the named route or evidence of its terrain, condition or difficulty.

    Photo: Cody Black / Unsplash License / Details

    Otago Walking track

    Albert Burn Hut Track

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
    Walking time
    6 - 8 hr
    Track grade
    Advanced

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • From the mouth of the Albert Burn follow the farmed river flats into the gorge and on to the Albert Burn Hut.
    • DOC directory time: 6 - 8 hr. Grade: Advanced.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • A walker seen from behind carrying a grey and orange backpack, with hills in the background.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Cody Black · Unsplash License

    General backpacking illustration; location unverified. This is not a photograph of the named route or evidence of its terrain, condition or difficulty.

    Photo: Cody Black / Unsplash License / Details

    West Coast Walking track

    Alborns Walk

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    2.7 km loop
    Walking time
    1 hr 30 min
    Track grade
    Easy

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • Walk through old mine workings on this well-graded loop track.
    • DOC directory time: 1 hr 30 min. Grade: Easy.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • Alex Knob Rata Lookout view
    Area context · Photo: Ian Singleton · CC BY 4.0

    Alex Knob Rata Lookout view. Published in DOC's Alex Knob Track guide. Photograph date not supplied; this is route-area context, not a verified trailhead or current-condition photograph.

    Photo: Ian Singleton / CC BY 4.0 / Details

    West Coast Walking track

    Alex Knob Track

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    17.2 km return via same track
    Walking time
    8 hr
    Track grade
    Advanced

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • This is a challenging day hike with a reward of the best views of Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere without taking a helicopter flight. In summer, make sure you start your hike early to avoid afternoon cloud.
    • DOC directory time: 8 hr. Grade: Advanced.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • A walker seen from behind carrying a grey and orange backpack, with hills in the background.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Cody Black · Unsplash License

    A backpack carried outdoors; location unverified. This is not a retailer or current-stock photograph. Not a verified photograph of the place or itinerary in this guide.

    Photo: Cody Black / Unsplash License / Details

    Manawatu-Whanganui Walking track

    Alice Nash Memorial Heritage Lodge Track

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    2.4 km one way
    Walking time
    30 min one way to lodge
    Track grade
    Easy to intermediate walking track

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-01. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • A short forest approach from Petersons Road to the heritage lodge, with an arched bridge and separate choices for the river flats or longer tramps.
    • Checked 1 October 2026 (Pacific/Auckland). This is not a live opening or safety guarantee; check the manager's notices and entrance signs before departure.
    • Published distance and time are one way. River flats and onward tracks are separate additions. Pet-dog access is not permitted under the listed hunting/management-only dog rule.
  • A walker seen from behind carrying a grey and orange backpack, with hills in the background.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Cody Black · Unsplash License

    General backpacking illustration; location unverified. This is not a photograph of the named route or evidence of its terrain, condition or difficulty.

    Photo: Cody Black / Unsplash License / Details

    Otago Walking track

    Allans Beach Walking Track

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    500 m return via same track
    Walking time
    10 min
    Track grade
    Easy

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • It's only a 5-minute walk through dunes to this superb white sandy beach, filled with amazing wildlife that call this area home.
    • DOC directory time: 10 min. Grade: Easy.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • A walker seen from behind carrying a grey and orange backpack, with hills in the background.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Cody Black · Unsplash License

    General backpacking illustration; location unverified. This is not a photograph of the named route or evidence of its terrain, condition or difficulty.

    Photo: Cody Black / Unsplash License / Details

    Canterbury Walking track

    Allans Track

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
    Walking time
    2 hr
    Track grade
    Advanced

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • Allans Track starts from Te Wanahau Flat and joins Fern Walk to get back to the starting point.
    • DOC directory time: 2 hr. Grade: Advanced.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • A walker seen from behind carrying a grey and orange backpack, with hills in the background.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Cody Black · Unsplash License

    General backpacking illustration; location unverified. This is not a photograph of the named route or evidence of its terrain, condition or difficulty.

    Photo: Cody Black / Unsplash License / Details

    West Coast Walking track

    Alpine Nature Walk

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    800 m loop
    Walking time
    20 min
    Track grade
    Easiest

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • The Alpine Nature Walk in Lewis Pass provides an opportunity to break up a long drive while enjoying spectacular scenery and beech forest.
    • DOC directory time: 20 min. Grade: Easiest.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • A walker seen from behind carrying a grey and orange backpack, with hills in the background.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Cody Black · Unsplash License

    General backpacking illustration; location unverified. This is not a photograph of the named route or evidence of its terrain, condition or difficulty.

    Photo: Cody Black / Unsplash License / Details

    Marlborough Walking track

    Alpine Route

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
    Walking time
    Not specified in the checked DOC directory
    Track grade
    Advanced; Expert

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • This challenging trip above the bushline in Mt Richmond Forest Park offers outstanding views over the Waimea Plains and the Inland Kaikoura Ranges. This track is part of Te Araroa Trail.
    • Windfall from Wairoa Gorge road end to Mid Wairoa Hut; First published on 2 October 2026.
    • Wilding conifer control operation for Motueka Gorge and Red Hills; First published on 25 July 2026.
    • DOC directory time: Not specified in the checked DOC directory. Grade: Advanced; Expert.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • A walker seen from behind carrying a grey and orange backpack, with hills in the background.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Cody Black · Unsplash License

    General backpacking illustration; location unverified. This is not a photograph of the named route or evidence of its terrain, condition or difficulty.

    Photo: Cody Black / Unsplash License / Details

    Taranaki Walking track

    Ambury Monument Walk

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    380 m one way
    Walking time
    10 min
    Track grade
    Easiest

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • Walk to the Ambury Monument, a memorial to climber Arthur Ambury who gave his life in 1918 in a heroic attempt to save his climbing partner.
    • DOC directory time: 10 min. Grade: Easiest.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • A walker seen from behind carrying a grey and orange backpack, with hills in the background.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Cody Black · Unsplash License

    General backpacking illustration; location unverified. This is not a photograph of the named route or evidence of its terrain, condition or difficulty.

    Photo: Cody Black / Unsplash License / Details

    West Coast Walking track

    Amethyst Rimu Walk

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    2.5 km return via same track
    Walking time
    1 hr
    Track grade
    Easy

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • View some of the largest rimu trees still standing in New Zealand on this track.
    • DOC directory time: 1 hr. Grade: Easy.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • A walker seen from behind carrying a grey and orange backpack, with hills in the background.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Cody Black · Unsplash License

    General backpacking illustration; location unverified. This is not a photograph of the named route or evidence of its terrain, condition or difficulty.

    Photo: Cody Black / Unsplash License / Details

    Tasman Walking track

    Anatoki and Historic Kill Devil Pack Tracks

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
    Walking time
    3-5 days
    Track grade
    Advanced

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • Explore beautiful beech forest, dramatic gorge scenery and rock debris dam at Lake Stanley. Trampers can also enjoy a historic hut experience in restored character huts from 1930s gold mining days.
    • Anatoki Track storm damage; First published on 12 January 2026. Last reviewed on 30 September 2026.
    • Kill Devil - Waingaro Track hut maintenance; First published on 24 September 2026.
    • Predator control in Parapara area of Kahurangi National Park; First published on 11 May 2026. Last reviewed on 24 September 2026.
    • Predator control in Cobb area of Kahurangi National Park; First published on 15 May 2026. Last reviewed on 1 July 2026.
    • DOC directory time: 3-5 days. Grade: Advanced.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.
  • A walker seen from behind carrying a grey and orange backpack, with hills in the background.
    Illustrative photograph · Photo: Cody Black · Unsplash License

    General backpacking illustration; location unverified. This is not a photograph of the named route or evidence of its terrain, condition or difficulty.

    Photo: Cody Black / Unsplash License / Details

    Gisborne Walking track

    Anaura Bay Walkway

    Department of Conservation

    Distance
    4.5 km loop
    Walking time
    2 hr
    Track grade
    Easy

    Location reference not verified. Nearby distance unavailable.

    Article checked 2026-10-08. Confirm current access with the track manager.

    Route notes & sources
    • This track passes through coastal forest, pine-clad valleys and dense native bush - with a fairly easy grade it's suitable for children, although some climbing is required and there are a few steep places.
    • Anaura Bay Walkway partial closure; First published on 25 March 2022. Last reviewed on 10 August 2026.
    • DOC directory time: 2 hr. Grade: Easy.
    • Source checked 2026-10-08; reconfirm current access and conditions with DOC.

DOC routes and local favourites

1581 route listings across 19 regions, including all 1571 unique entries in the DOC walking directory checked 2026-10-08. Some DOC listings group several walks. Regional comparisons, skills and booking guides are separate.

DOC walking directory Hiking guides

Walking times, distances and grades retain their source qualifications. Source checks are not live access reports; confirm the route, season and current conditions with its manager.

Choosing a walking track Conditions & alerts