Skip to main content

New Zealand's 'best kept secret' walks

Hike the quieter trails of NZ that go beyond any guidebook

Looking to walk the very best of New Zealand's landscapes away from busier trails? From hiking in the Southern Alps to trekking in remote high country tussock hills, our expertise in finding the paths less travelled translates to unique NZ walking experiences that you won’t find in any New Zealand guidebook.

On our walking trips in New Zealand – guided and self-guided – you will be taken along off-the-beaten-track routes that steer clear of tourist crowds.

Of course, we make sure that you still hike on the most spectacular sections of the famous Great Walks to provide you with a complete experience. This way you can choose from a range of New Zealand walking trips that are made just for those who appreciate a well thought out walking itinerary. 

All of our New Zealand walks are designed by walkers for walkers. If you're looking to explore NZ on foot, so you can really soak in its natural wonders, stunning landscapes and magnificent wildlife, check out the various New Zealand hiking tours below. There are options to suit different levels of experience and fitness.

Top New Zealand walking trips

Picture postcard scenery along the Queen Charlotte - a photographer's dream | <i>Kaye Wilson</i>

Combine the classics with the remote

On the Fiordland, Hollyford and Stewart Island Trails, travel to the edge of the World Heritage Fiordland National Park, passing through wetlands and ancient native forests to revel in jaw-dropping landscapes. In Milford Sound, avoid the busy trekking routes away from the crowds. There's also a helicopter ride over Milford Sound before trekking along three sections of New Zealand's Great Walks: Hollyford, Routeburn and Kelper.

The Marlborough Sounds and Abel Tasman trek is great for beginners. This trekking holiday provides an impressive blend of remote and iconic walks on the upper South Island, including the stunning Kaikoura Peninsula Walk and the finest sections of Queen Charlotte Track for an exciting ridge top walk above the Marlborough Sound.
Rex Simpson hut | <i>Autal Farkas</i>

Go truly remote on our signature trek

On the Best of the Southern Alps Trek get exactly what it says on the tin. This New Zealand trek will begin on paths where everyone else stops, hiking in some of the most secluded ridges in the Southern Alps.

This exhilarating 6-day hike boasts dramatic backdrops of New Zealand's highest peak: Aoraki, or Mount Cook. Trek along ridgelines up to around 2000m, which overlook the Hooker Glacier, the spectacular Mt Sefton with its rumbling avalanches of ice and rock, and Lake Wanaka. The trek's finale will take your breath away, flying over the remote Siberia Valley to explore on foot and by jet boat.

Trekking in this remote part of New Zealand rivals some of the walking trips in the Himalayas.

Popular guided New Zealand walks

Travel at your own pace: great for solo & independent walkers

Self-guided walks with Great Walks Of New Zealand

Our Great Walks of New Zealand division will introduce you to the finest selection of self-guided as well as guided walking holidays in New Zealand.

From the secluded bays in the Marlborough Sounds to the snow-capped peaks of Canterbury; the South Island's rugged West Coast to the aptly named Fiordland, they've curated an unrivalled selection of affordable & flexible self guided walks that are as diverse as Aotearoa itself. 

On their self guided walks you can expect all logistics to be taken care of for you – character filled accommodations, the tricky luggage transfers, most meals, as well as the detailed route mapping.  


Explore New Zealand on a self guided walk with Great Walks of New Zealand

When is the best time to walk in New Zealand?

Travel between November and February to experience the true essence of New Zealand's natural wonders rich with wildlife in the country's warmer months of the year. The end of Spring and Summer season makes it ideal for a variety of outdoor activities, including scenic multi-day walks.

Why walk with us in NZ?

Made by walkers for walkers: With over four decades of tailoring exciting and innovative treks around the world, we go well beyond the standard popular trails to the very heart of the wild and mysterious frontiers of a destination. Our knowledge of the routes and secret New Zealand wilderness spots are second to none while our local and knowledgeable logistics team make sure you enjoy a seamless trip.

Widest range of active NZ holidays: While some of our hiking itineraries include the best sections of the more famous walking tracks, we thrive on creating engaging hikes in spectacular surroundings that provide travellers with the excitement that only real off the beaten track opportunities provide. We offer a comprehensive range of quintessential Kiwi destinations to explore both islands and everything in between.

All-inclusive value: By including essentials, such as hearty 3-course meals, national park fees and camping equipment, your trip cost allows you to better budget for your big adventure. There are no hidden costs, single travellers don’t pay more and you’ll enjoy many ‘extra touches’ that enhance your experience. We only utilise high quality services and have a strong focus on your safety and enjoyment, all at affordable prices.

Make friends in smaller groups: Meet like-minded travellers who are keen to seek new experiences and adventures. For the solo traveller, it's an opportune way to be involved in things you otherwise thought you couldn’t do on your own. A smaller group means you can go at your own pace and push personal boundaries in a fun, supportive and nurturing environment.

Thoughtful travellers: We reduce the environmental impact of our travel by restricting group size, using fuel efficient vehicles, minimising the use of aircraft, recycling, composting, avoiding consumerism, using minimal impact huts and bulk buying food supplies. Curious to find out more about this? Read about it in the Responsible Travel section on this website.

Best of Southern Alps Trek

The scenery was spectacular and was exactly as promised – like going to Nepal without actually going to Nepal. I felt in very safe hands and had such a great time – definitely left the trek feeling recharged and reset for everyday life. Do yourself a favour and go on this trip – it is just magic. Two of the girls I trekked with on this trip have since booked Everest Base Camp with me for next year. Great friendships made.

 

C. Hannah from Australian Capital Territory☆☆☆☆☆

Best of Southern Alps Trek

The trip was great. A real highlight was our time at the Rex Simpson Hut and the walk up to Erica's peak. I also really enjoyed the challenge of climbing to the Sealy Tarns. The guide was fantastic, so positive always.

 

Liz from Auckland, New Zealand☆☆☆☆☆

Fiordland, Hollyford and Stewart Island Trails

Helicopter, jet boat, loved the Catlins, Loved Stewart Island. All good – especially the Pinot Noir!

 

Rosalie W from Australia☆☆☆☆

Marlborough Sounds and Abel Tasman Trails

I had a fantastic time and will be recommending this trip to my friends.

 

Nathan from Australia☆☆☆☆☆

Multi Award Winning Adventures

Responsible Travel

Adventure Experts Since 1975

Search Filters