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Best river hikes in New Zealand
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Best river hikes in New Zealand

Go with the flow on these riverside adventures! From gentle streams to powerful rapids, these hikes offer constant companionship with the sound of rushing water.

Here are some great hikes to explore in New Zealand.

Most popular hikes

1

Extra Difficult

Te Araroa Trail

Far North, New Zealand · star 4.9 (14) · 3388.8 km · Est. 136 days

2

Extra Difficult

Routeburn Track

Southland, New Zealand · star 4.9 (15) · 31.4 km · Est. 2 days

3

Medium

East Ahuriri Track

Waitaki, New Zealand · star N/A (0) · 2.0 km · Est. 26 min

4

Extra Difficult

Kepler Track

Southland, New Zealand · star 4.5 (13) · 52.4 km · Est. 3 days

5

Difficult

Te Araroa North Island

Far North, New Zealand · star 5.0 (4) · 1710.0 km · Est. 68 days

6

Difficult

Five Passes Route

Queenstown-Lakes, New Zealand · star 5.0 (2) · 56.8 km · Est. 3 days

7

Extra Difficult

Milford Track

Southland, New Zealand · star 4.8 (13) · 50.9 km · Est. 3 days

8

Easy

Hagley Park Loop

Christchurch City, New Zealand · star N/A (0) · 5.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 13 min

9

Medium

Blue Spring via Te Waihou Walkway from Leslie Road Trailhead

South Waikato, New Zealand · star N/A (0) · 4.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 9 min

10

Difficult

Banks Peninsula Track

Christchurch City, New Zealand · star 5.0 (1) · 31.3 km · Est. 2 days

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Reviews for river hikes in New Zealand

Gillian Lupton avatar

Te Araroa Trail

Gillian Lupton · reviewed about 5 years ago

star star star star star

My first thru-hike and it was an incredible experience that I would strongly recommend. The North Island was largely beaches, forests, farmland and cities with the incredible Tararuas just north of Wellington. The South Island was full of beautiful mountain ranges and enormous lakes. Stunning scenery that we had largely to ourselves. We met lots of locals who were very helpful to trampers and had so many home cooked meals with them.

Agata Radtke avatar

Routeburn Track

Agata Radtke · reviewed over 6 years ago

star star star star star

Great introduction to multiday walks. my favourite part was from the Routeburn Falls Hut to Lake MacKenzie. The views of Hollyford Valley blow my mind every time.

No reviews available for East Ahuriri Track.

Ruaidhri Mac Carthaigh avatar

Kepler Track

Ruadh · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Phenomenal track. Lovely mix of alpine and beech forest biomes. Ridge walks, bush walks, a lakeside hut, a cave you fan explore. It has it all

Malthe Andersen avatar

Te Araroa North Island

Malthe Andersen · reviewed almost 6 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in New Zealand

What is the climate like for hiking in New Zealand?

New Zealand's climate varies from subtropical in the north to temperate in the south, with winter from June to August and summer from December to February. Winter hiking can be treacherous, particularly in South Island's mountains due to snowfall and shorter daylight hours.
The weather in spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) is typically milder, but can still be unpredictable, so appropriate gear is necessary. Spring offers stunning displays of blooming flowers, while fall presents beautiful foliage.
The best time to hike is during the summer, but trails can be crowded. Always check local weather forecasts and the Department of Conservation's website (https://www.doc.govt.nz/) for trail conditions.

Do I need a permit to hike in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, most trails do not require permits for day hikes. However, for multi-day hikes and overnight stays in huts or campsites, bookings may be necessary, especially in peak season. All the relevant information and booking processes can be found on the Department of Conservation's website (https://www.doc.govt.nz/).

Is wild camping allowed in New Zealand?

Wild camping in New Zealand, known as "freedom camping," is subject to local bylaws. Generally, it's allowed in certain public lands, but restrictions apply, particularly near populated areas. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. More information is available on the Department of Conservation's website (https://www.doc.govt.nz/).

Are there mountain rescue services in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, if you find yourself in an emergency situation while hiking, dial 111. The Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand oversees search and rescue operations. It's wise to carry a personal locator beacon in remote areas. Visit AdventureSmart's website (https://www.adventuresmart.org.nz/) for more safety advice.

Are there dangerous plants in New Zealand?

New Zealand's diverse flora includes native bush, ferns, and kauri trees. Hikers might encounter unique species like the silver fern or pohutukawa tree. Plants can vary greatly between coastal, alpine, and forest trails. For more information, the Department of Conservation's website (https://www.doc.govt.nz/) is a valuable resource.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in New Zealand?

New Zealand's wildlife includes various bird species like the kiwi and kea. Insects such as sandflies can be a nuisance in certain areas, especially in the South Island. It's important to respect wildlife and consider insect repellent. For more details, consult the Department of Conservation (https://www.doc.govt.nz/).

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