New Zealand Hiking Tours & Trips
4.5 stars on(7,703 reviews)- Choose from 33 New Zealand tours
- 1,200+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
- 24/7 customer support
33 New Zealand hiking holidays with 1,263 reviews
Compiled by
![New Zealand travel expert at TourRadar](https://cdn.tourradar.com/s3/team/125x125/116_X7vUqJpc.jpg)
SteffNew Zealand travel expert at TourRadar
11 Day 'Takahe' South Island Select Tour
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“The tour was well-organized, with comfortable hotels, and a great group of like-minded tourists.”
Tammy, traveled in November
The spectacular Hooker Valley track leads beneath Mt Cook, with visits to Franz Josef Glacier's terminal face and Abel Tasman's golden beaches. Mirror-like Lake Matheson walks and Ben Lomond trails from Queenstown await, with comfortable stays at Mercure Resort.
Duration 11 days Destinations Picton, Marahau, Hokitika, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Mount Cook, Christchurch Age Range 18 to 65 year olds Physical Rating Easy Distance 740 mi Operator Stray Travel From
- US$2,456
Walking in New Zealand
24 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The walks and hikes were all unique and engaging. The road trip is the best way to see the country.”
Albert, traveled in February
New Zealand's finest hiking awaits on sections of the Kepler Track and Queen Charlotte Track. The volcanic landscape of Tongariro National Park, geothermal wonders of Waimangu Valley, and Hooker Valley beneath Mount Cook offer diverse terrain. Coastal walks at Bark Bay and mountain trails in Wanaka round out the journey.
Duration 19 days Destinations Auckland, Rotorua, Tongariro National Park, Wellington, Queen Charlotte Sound, Abel Tasman National Park, Paparoa National Park, Fox Glacier, Wanaka, QueenstownSee all destinations Age Range 16 to 85 year olds Physical Rating Easy Distance 1158 mi Operator Explore! From $7,890
3% Off- US$7,620You save $270
The 40km route through Fiordland follows Hollyford River beneath Mt Tutoko (2746m). Daily hikes include 19.5km to Pyke Lodge, 15km along Lake McKerrow, and 5km at Martins Bay Spit. Ancient beech forests and coastal landscapes create unique tramping opportunities.
Duration 8 days Destinations Queenstown, Te Anau Age Range 10 to 70 year olds Physical Rating Moderate Distance 106 mi Operator Discover New Zealand From
3% Off- US$4,724
New Zealand's Great Walks unfold with expert guides in Fiordland National Park. A heli-hike from Luxmore Hut on the Kepler Track, trek to Giant Gate Falls on Milford Track, and ascent to Key Summit on Routeburn Track reveal native alpine herbs and rainforest ecosystems.
Duration 5 days Destinations Te Anau, Fiordland National Park Age Range up to 99 year olds Physical Rating Moderate Distance 34 mi Operator Thrifty Tours From
3% Off- US$1,473
Stunning trails range from Coromandel's coastal paths to the 19.4km Tongariro Alpine Crossing. The Ruakuri Forest Walk in Waitomo, Mount Victoria in Wellington, and 23 suspension bridges at Redwoods Treewalk in Rotorua offer diverse adventures.
Duration 10 days Destinations Auckland, Coromandel, Raglan, Waitomo, Rotorua, Taupo, Tongariro National Park, Wellington Age Range 30 to 70 year olds Physical Rating Easy Distance 451 mi Operator Haka Tours From
3% Off- US$2,808
Premier trails include the 19km Routeburn Track with mountain vistas and the 5km Hooker Valley Track featuring swing bridges and icebergs. Hokitika's rainforest canopy offers 20-meter-high platforms while Lake Wanaka presents pristine shoreline paths.
Duration 9 days Destinations Christchurch, Hokitika, Fox Glacier, Wanaka, Queenstown, Arrowtown, Ohau, Twizel, Mount Cook Age Range up to 35 year olds Physical Rating Easy Distance 555 mi Operator Contiki From
3% Off- US$1,905
The legendary Tongariro Crossing (19.4km) showcases volcanic landscapes and emerald lakes. Ruakuri Forest's limestone formations, Cathedral Cove's coastal track, and Redwood Forest's 23 suspension bridges complete this adventure.
Duration 10 days Destinations Wellington, Tongariro National Park, Taupo, Rotorua, Waitomo, Raglan, Coromandel, Auckland Age Range 30 to 70 year olds Distance 451 mi Operator Haka Tours From
3% Off- US$2,808
Trails of New Zealand
17 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The scenery was awesome and the activities were incredible. The boat was a lovely size with just 36 passengers.”
Jenny, traveled in January
New Zealand's finest hikes feature the 19.4km Tongariro Crossing and Abel Tasman Coast Track. Varied terrains from volcanic Mount Tongariro to glacial Hooker Valley come alive with expert guides providing local insights and safety support.
Duration 18 days Destinations Auckland, Rangitoto Island, Rotorua, Tongariro National Park, Wellington, Picton, Nelson, Motueka, Marahau, Abel Tasman National ParkSee all destinations Age Range 18 to 99 year olds Physical Rating Moderate Distance 1313 mi Operator Exodus Adventure Travels From
3% Off- US$12,300
The 17-mile Nydia Track and Pororari River Loop showcase New Zealand's natural beauty. Varied terrains from Hokitika Gorge's rainforest to Lewis Pass's alpine meadows provide daily hikes ranging 4-13km with professional guide assistance.
Duration 10 days Destinations Christchurch, Punakaiki, Paparoa National Park Age Range up to 80 year olds Physical Rating Moderate Distance 241 mi Operator Wildland Trekking From
3% Off- US$4,900
The iconic Queen Charlotte Track begins in Picton, leading through native bush to Resolution Bay and Endeavour Inlet. The Kenepuru Saddle climb to Eatwells Lookout reveals panoramic views of Marlborough Sounds. Guides lead treks past historic Meretoto and secluded Portage Bay.
Duration 4 days Destinations Picton, Queen Charlotte Sound Age Range 15 to 99 year olds Physical Rating Moderate Distance 45 mi Operator Intrepid Travel From
3% Off- US$1,550
Hiking & Trekking Tours/Trips in New Zealand Reviews
- 11 Day 'Takahe' South Island Select Tour
This tour was an unforgettable way to see the best of New Zealand's South Island in just 11 days! Perfect for the first-time travelers interested in exploring this beautiful island. The tour was well-organized, with comfortable hotels, and a great group of like-minded tourists. Most importantly, James, our local Maori tour guide made all the difference on this trip! He was attentive to the wishes of everyone individually and ensured we all were able to experience the landmarks and the activities we came to enjoy. He freely shared his personal knowledge of local and Maori customs, history, and culture, a standout perk you won't find anywhere else! We left New Zealand with many wonderful photos and endless memories of this amazing trip!
- Walking in New Zealand
I thoroughly enjoyed this trip. It was very well led by Gunther Hammer and we were a small group that got on very well and we had great fun
What our customers ask about New Zealand Hiking Tours & Trips
What are the best hiking trails in New Zealand for various skill levels?
New Zealand's trails range from gentle walks to demanding alpine routes. Beginners often start with the Kepler Track in Fiordland which offers easy valley walks through native bush. More experienced hikers head to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing where the path climbs over 750 meters through volcanic terrain. Braemar Station near Mount Cook serves as a good base for both easy valley walks and challenging mountain trails. According to TourRadar travelers "the varied scenery along different trails from rainforests to alpine peaks makes hiking accessible and rewarding for all levels."
What type of accommodation can I expect on multi-day hiking tours?
Lodging options span from basic backcountry huts to upscale hotels. Many tours include stays at established properties like the Punakaiki Resort near Pancake Rocks and Mount Cook Lodge. On remote trails like the Nydia Track you'll find Department of Conservation huts and campsites. Some routes feature distinctive stays at places like Maruia Hot Springs Resort near Lewis Pass. A TourRadar reviewer noted: "The mix of accommodation was perfect - from comfortable hotels in towns to cozy mountain lodges with stunning views of the Southern Alps."
What is the best time of year for hiking in New Zealand?
December through March (summer) brings the most reliable weather for hiking with dry trails and clear skies. Lower elevation routes like the Hollyford Track welcome hikers year-round while alpine paths such as the Tongariro Crossing work best in summer. October-November and April-May see fewer visitors but less predictable conditions. One TourRadar traveler shared: "The spring wildflowers in November were spectacular along the coastal tracks though we did get some rain." The Hermitage Hotel near Mount Cook provides good trail access during peak summer months.
How physically demanding are multi-day hikes in New Zealand?
The physical demands vary by trail. The Abel Tasman Coast Track represents a moderate option with 4-5 hours of daily walking on well-maintained paths. More difficult routes like the Tongariro Northern Circuit need 6-8 hours of hiking each day with steep climbs. The Hollyford Track covers 19.5km on day one and 15km on day two through beech forest. A TourRadar traveler noted: "The hikes were challenging but very manageable with proper preparation - our guide helped set the right pace." Tour companies rate trails from 1 (easy) to 4 (challenging).
What wildlife might I encounter while hiking in New Zealand?
The trails offer chances to see distinctive New Zealand wildlife. Stewart Island holds populations of kiwi birds while Milford Sound hosts fur seal colonies. Forest areas welcome native birds like tui and bellbird. Kaikoura's waters attract whales and dolphins. A TourRadar traveler shared: "We saw bottlenose dolphins playing near our boat in Milford Sound and plenty of seabirds along the coastal tracks." The Hollyford Track sometimes reveals Fiordland Crested Penguins and New Zealand fur seals at Long Reef.
How much does a typical guided hiking tour in New Zealand cost?
Tour prices reflect the length and included services. A 4-day guided walk in Fiordland starts around USD 1500 while full 24-day hiking adventures reach USD 6000. The 8-day Hollyford Highlights tour costs USD 4626 with lodging guides and select meals included. Daily rates typically fall between USD 200-600 based on comfort level and package features. A TourRadar traveler noted: "While not cheap the value was excellent considering the remote locations accessed and quality of guides."
More about New Zealand
Mountain HikesNew Zealand South IslandHiking & Trekking10 Best Hiking & Trekking CompaniesYour Guide to Planning a Private Hike 2025/2026New Zealand Travel Guide | All You Need to KnowBest 2 Week New Zealand Itineraries 2025/2026 (with Reviews)Best 3 Week New Zealand Itineraries 2025/2026 (with Reviews)Weather in New Zealand in 2025/2026What is the best time to visit New Zealand in 2025/2026?