Skip to content

Site Menu

Activity finder

Activity summary

In this section:

Activity Finder Places Summary

Northland

Ara Pou (pou trail)

As you travel towards Te Rerenga Wairua (Cape Reinga) you see pou (large posts) indicating places of interest to stop and learn about the unique stories and natural beauty of this spectacular landscape.

Bay of Islands area hunting

The Bay of Islands offers good opportunities for hunting pigs and goats; from Ranfurly Bay in the Whangaroa Harbour to Puketi, Omahuta, Opua and Russell Forests.

Herekino Forest

Herekino Forest is home to many threatened and endangered species. You can explore the forest through a track that makes up part of the Te Araroa Pathway.

Whangarei area hunting

The Whangarei area offers good opportunities for hunting pigs and goats, as well as game birds, possums and rabbits. Numerous small-sized hunting blocks are scattered throughout the area, from the Brynderwyn ranges to Russell Forest.

Activities in Kaitaia

When you visit Kaitaia, make sure you take a walk around one of the lakes or forests. Scenic views and panoramic landscapes are just waiting to be explored. Swimming, camping and picnicking are popular activities here.

Kaitaia

Kaitaia is the gateway to the Far North, popular with recreational water sport enthusiasts and trampers. It also offers short walks with fantastic views.

Raetea Forest

Raetea is a mountainous region of native bush located south of Kaitaia featuring huge towering trees and clear rocky bottom streams.

Activities at Ahipara

When you visit Ahipara, make sure you take a walk around the reef and along the Ahipara foreshore. Scenic views and panoramic landscapes are just waiting to be explored. Swimming, surfing and fishing are popular activities here.

Ahipara

Ahipara features some of New Zealand's most striking coastlines, characterised by the iconic Te Oneroa a Tohe (90 Mile Beach), dune lands, coastal shrublands and historic gumlands.

Warawara Forest

Warawara is a mountainous forest north of the Hokianga locally known as the 'spirit forest'. Warawara is home to many threatened and endangered species including New Zealand's smallest bird, the rifleman/titipounamu.

Mangamuka Tramping Track

The Mangamuka Tramping Track takes you through scenic Raetea Forest, a track made for the adventurous at heart.

Rarawa Beach Walk

This short walking track takes you to Rarawa beach.

Far North hunting

The Far North has numerous hunting reserves scattered around the Kaitaia area, from Mangamuka in the south to Te Paki in the north. Pigs are generally the main animal hunted in these reserves, although possums and game birds are hunted on occasion.

Activities at Karikari Peninsula

This area provides easy access to scenic walking tracks and picnic areas. Other recreational opportunities range from enjoying the stunning views, exploring historical sites, swimming and fishing.

Maitai Bay Headland Track

Pass through farmland and manuka scrubland to Maitai Bay Headlands, where you can enjoy scenic views of Waikato Bay and Maitai Bay.

Lake Ohia Gumhole Reserve Walk

This short historical walk takes you through manuka scrub passing a series of excavated gumholes.

Fig Tree Track

This loop track takes you to the highest point in Maitai Bay giving you scenic views across Karikari Peninsula and Puwheke.

Karikari Peninsula

Karikari Peninsula is renowned for its amazing white sandy beaches and bays such as popular Maitai Bay. Other attractions include historical Puwheke Beach, Karikari Beach and picturesque Waikato Bay.

Activities at Te Paki

The area provides easy access to great walking tracks and picnic areas. Other recreation opportunities range from enjoying the stunning views, bird watching, tramping, and mountain biking, to swimming, diving, fishing and surfing.

Te Paki

Te Paki, a unique and dynamic area, is home to a wide range of native plants and animals. The area provides easy access to idyllic campgrounds, great walking tracks and many outdoor recreation opportunities.

Activities at Te Rerenga Wairua (Cape Reinga)

The area around Te Rerenga Wairua (Cape Reinga)provides easy access to walking tracks and beautiful swimming areas.

Te Rerenga Wairua (Cape Reinga)

The famous landmark Te Rerenga Wairua sits at the tip of the Te Paki Recreational Reserves. A highly significant area to Maori, it marks the point from which Maori wairua (spirit) return to their traditional homeland.

Taumarumaru Scenic Reserve Walk

Taumarumaru Scenic Reserve is mostly an open area and tracks are identified by mowing and track markers. A short walk over the reserve is rewarded with great views and access to a small beach.

Activities at Doubtless Bay

History buffs can get amongst the numerous cultural and historical sites and there are plenty of other opportunities for families, walkers, dog owners and fishers.

Doubtless Bay

Visit Doubtless Bay and explore a stunning array of cultural and historical sites, unspoiled coastlines, magnificent pa sites and scenic reserves with stunning views.

Mahinepua Peninsula Track

The track travels the length of the peninsula, mainly along the ridgetop, giving access to the many sheltered bays and providing outstanding coastal views.

Mangahorehore Track

Tramping track for experienced trampers with good route-finding abilities. The route descends to the Waipapa River.

Activities at Puketi & Omahuta forests

Puketi & Omahuta forests provide a range of recreation activities including tramping, hunting and camping.

Motuarohia/Roberton Island

The island has a significant Maori history and offers a range of recreation activities, including a track to a stunning pa site, and an educational underwater trail for snorkelers.

Activities at Urupukapuka Island

Urupukapuka Island is a great place for fishing, swimming and all types of water sports or you can take a walk and learn more about the historic heritage of the island.

Urupukapuka Island

Of significant historic and cultural importance, Urupukapuka Island is also a great place to relax or for water sports at one of the many beaches.

Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve

The marine environment in the Whangarei Harbour is of distinctive quality, and two marine areas are set aside for protection around Motukaroro (Passage) Island and at Waikaraka.

Activities at Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve

Boating, kayaking or snorkelling are great activities within the Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve.

Taronui Bay Recreation Reserve track

The track through a mix of pasture and lightly wooded landscape leads you to stunning Taronui Bay with its white sand beach sheltered by a reef.

Peninsula Loop Walk - Mimiwhangata

The Loop Walk around the headland provides a little of everything that Mimiwhangata has to offer.

Puriri Track - Mimiwhangata

One of the bush walks at Mimiwhangata, the track leads you to the top of the ridge with impressive views of the peninsula and out towards the Poor Knights Islands.

Tohumoana Lookout Track - Mimiwhangata

This bush walk at Mimiwhangata offers superb views of Mimiwhangata, the coast and the Poor Knights Islands:

Motukiore Island

Visit Motukiore Island in the Whangarei Harbour and explore its fascinating Maori and European history.

Whananaki Coastal Walk

This 5-km coastal walk runs along the east coast between Sandy Bay and Whananaki South and features excellent views of the coast and the Poor Knights Islands.

Hauturu Highpoint Track

The 3.3-km track from the Waiotemaramara Waterfall Loop Walk to Hauturu Highpoint is steep but the views obtained at the top are worth the climb.

Waiotemarama Waterfall Loop Walk

This attractive 3-hour loop walk to the Waiotemarama Waterfall features gorges, waterfalls and bush scenes.

Arai te Uru Heritage Walk

This short track takes you out to the Signal Station Point on the south head of the Hokianga Harbour. It offers spectacular views of the harbour and coastline.

Russell Forest walks (Ngaiotonga to Russell Forest)

This 21-km track along the Ngaiotonga Saddle leads you through beautiful Russell Forest and provides an amazing view of the Bay of Islands and the Whangaruru Harbour.

Watkin Powell Track, Otamure Bay

At Otamure Bay campsite you'll find the Watkin Powell Track. The short track leads to a sandy, secluded beach at Tauwhara Bay.

Waro Limestone Scenic Reserve walk

Just north of Hikurangi lies the Waro Limestone Scenic Reserve. A track through the 7.5-hectare reserve takes you around spectacular limestone formations.

Waipu Caves Walk

A 2-km walk leads you to Waipu Caves. Once in the limestone caves you'll find stalagtites, stalagmites and glow worms near the entrance.

Tutukaka Head

Tutukaka Head has a number of good beaches and is a great place for swimming, boating, fishing, surfing and diving. The site's main walking track leads to the Tutukaka Lighthouse.

Taheke Waterfall Track

This lovely 3-km loop track leads through a grove of regenerating kauri and offers views of the Taheke Waterfall.

Ruapekapeka Pa Track

A 30-minute walk leads you to Ruapekapeka Pa, which is where the final battle of 'War of the North' was waged. The pa is considered one of the most significant historic sites in New Zealand.

Ruakaka Pipeline Road Track

Ruakaka Pipeline Road Track is considered suitable for people of most fitness levels. The 3-km track provides back dune access to Bream Bay.

Piroa Falls Track

Follow a 200-m track across the Ahuroa River and on to the picturesque Piroa Falls. The river has many suitable swimming holes along the track, making it a fun family walk.

Pukenui Forest tracks

The Pukenui Forest tracks are suitable for people of most ages and fitness levels. You cross through farmlands and native forest before climbing up a steep ridge and bringing you back to the forest entrance.

Pataua Island Track

Pataua Island Track is a short access track that skirts the Pataua Estuary and leads you to a lovely beach.

Otito Track

The Otito Track meanders through forest before leading you to several small sandy beaches.

Motutara Recreation Reserve walk

The Motutara Recreation Reserve lies halfway between Russell and Whangarei. At the reserve you'll find several small beaches and some good fishing and diving spots.

Brynderwyn Hills Walk

The Brynderwyn Hills stretch from Mangawhai Heads on the east coast nearly halfway to the eastern arms of Kaipara Harbour. You can access the Brynderwyn Hills Walkway from the western or eastern end.

Otaika Valley Walk

The Otaika Valley Walkway offers you a variety of landscapes including farmland and native forest.

Mangawhai Walk

This 5-km Mangawhai Track traverses across beaches, cliff tops, farmlands and bush areas. You may be able to enjoy views of Bream Head all the way down to the Hauraki Gulf.

Twilight Beach to Te Paki Stream

This 4-hour track leads you past Scott Point to the famous 90 Mile Beach and the Te Paki sand dunes.

Te Werahi Beach to Twilight Beach

Experience gorgeous peach-coloured dunes, unusual dune grasses, and views of Cape Maria van Diemen and Motuopao Island on this 3-hour track to Twilight Beach.

Cape Reinga to Te Werahi Beach

From Cape Reinga this 1.25-km track follows the West Coast leading you down past steep cliffs to the long, sweeping Te Werahi Beach.

Tapotupotu Bay to Cape Reinga

This 4.5-km track takes you past the lovely beach of Sandy Bay to the Cape Reinga lighthouse.

Pandora to Tapotupotu Bay

This 9-km walk between Pandora and Tapotupotu Bay mainly follows old farm tracks until you reach idyllic Tapotupotu Bay.

Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) to Pandora

This 4-hour walk along beautiful Spirits Bay takes you to Pandora where you can stop to observe shore birds or camp for the night.

Cape Reinga Coastal Walkway

This scenic track follows the rugged coastline of Cape Reinga and descends to Te Werahi and Twilight beaches. Self-sufficient camping is available.

Whangaruru North Head walking tracks

The Whangaruru North Head Walking Tracks can be accessed from the popular campsite at Puriri Bay. The tracks follow through native forest and ridgelines before dropping down into secluded bays.

Pandora Track

This 6-km walking track leads you past a remnant kauri forest to Pandora, a beautiful sandy bay.

Cape Reinga Lighthouse Walk

Take a short stroll from the Cape Reinga car park down to the lighthouse. From here you can enjoy the outstanding panoramic views and pay respect to a site that is steeped in Maori tradition.

Twilight - Te Werahi Loop Track

The round-trip walk is 16 km in length and takes 4.5-5 hours to complete. The walkway crosses farmlands and dunes.

Herekino Forest Track

The 15-km Herekino Forest Track passes through forest that is home to many rare and threatened species including the North Island brown kiwi, long-tailed bat and kauri snail.

Kaitaia Walkway - short walk

Take a 1.5-hour return walk on the Kaitaia Walkway to get to a lovely kauri grove. For the hearty tramper, continue on the walkway as it climbs up to a saddle which affords panoramic views.

Kaitaia Walkway - route

Take a 1.5-hour return walk on the Kaitaia Walkway to get to a lovely kauri grove. For the hearty tramper, continue on the walkway as it climbs up to a saddle which affords panoramic views.

Lake Ngatu Track

Just a 15-minute drive north of Kaitaia, Lake Ngatu is a freshwater dune lake and recreation reserve. The lake is popular with water sport enthusiasts and other day visitors.

Warawara Forest Track

This 22-km tramping track offers the backcountry adventurer a great tramping experience in one of Northland's wilderness area.

Activities at Tangihua Forest

You can take a short walk or a longer route in Tangitua Forest. Hunting is permitted and a permit is required.

Tangihua Forest

Tangihua Forest is a distinctive, rugged landmark of the Whangarei/Dargaville area, covering 3000 hectares of mainly podocarp broadleaf forest and some kauri.

Northern Tangihua Track

The Northern Tangihua Track links up with other tracks in the Tangihua Forest.

Karikari Bay Walk

This very short track takes you to a long, white sandy beach on Northland's Karikari Peninsula.

Activities at Waipoua Forest

Good walking tracks give easy access to the giant trees Tane Mahuta, Te Matua Ngahere and Yakas. A few tramping tracks and routes are also available for those who wish to venture deeper into the forest.

Waipoua Forest

Waipoua, and the adjoining forests of Mataraua and Waima, make up the largest remaining tract of native forest in Northland.

Activities at Trounson Kauri Park

Walk the tracks at Trounson Kauri Park during the day or at night to learn more about the native plants and animals found here.

Four Sisters Walk

A stand of four impressive kauri trees, known as the Four Sisters, can be visited by taking a 10-minute walk in the Waipoua Forest.

Tokatoka Scenic Reserve Walk

Climb to the top of Tokatoka and enjoy the stunning 360-degree views.

Mount Tutamoe Track

Climb through Kaihu Forest to the top of Mount Tutamoe and you will be rewarded by stunning, panoramic views.

Yakas Kauri Walk

Walk on a well-surfaced track to Cathedral Grove and then move on to experience the seventh largest kauri in Waipoua Forest, the 'Yakas' tree.

Trounson Kauri Park Walk

Wallk through a spectacular stand of kauri and experience the unique character of this ancient forest by day or night.

Toatoa Track

This short loop track in Waipoua Forest is 1 km south of the forest lookout. Fine examples of toatoa (blue celery pine) and other podocarps can be seen from the track.

Te Matua Ngahere Walk

Take a 20-minute walk in Waipoua Forest to view the world's second largest living kauri Te Matua Ngahere.

Lookout Track

The track connects the Waipoua Visitor Centre to the historic forestry lookout. The track traverses through a regenerating manuka and podocarp/hardwood forest.

Kauri Rickers Walk

Walk up a short track that climbs through a stand of young kauri 'rickers' and offers scenic views of the Waipoua River.

Tane Mahuta Track

Visit Tane Mahuta, New Zealand's largest known living kauri tree.

Kauri Bushman's Walk

This short kauri forest walk provides an easy opportunity to enjoy the unique kauri forest environment.

Tangihua Main Ridge Track

The Tangihua Main Ridge Track links the Horokaka Track and the Te Haua Uru Track forming a loop that takes about 9 hours to complete. It's a route that should only be tackled by experienced trampers.

Te Haua Uru Track

The Te Haua Uru Track is located in the Tangihua Forest and links with the Horokaka Track and Tangihua Main Ridge Track to form a loop that will take experienced trampers 9 hours to complete.

Kauri Dam Walk

This easy walk takes about 1 hour 45 minutes. On the Kauri Dam Walk you'll meander through regenerating forest and by the remains of an old timber dam before coming to a viewing area.

Kauri Grove Track

Follow the Kauri Grove Track through a podocarp/broadleaf forest before coming to a small grove of mature kauri. The walk may require skill and an average level of fitness.

Tangihua Forest Nature Walk

This nature walk winds through native forest and takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete.

Whakapono and Tumanako tracks

The Whakapono and Tumanako tracks form a loop. Plan for the walk to take about 6.5 hours if you wish to complete the full loop.

Horokaka Track

Horokaka Track is a challenging track that includes strenuous climbing. The track leads up to an old logging road and then follows the ridge to the Horokaka Transmitter.

Trounson Kauri Park

DOC's first Mainland Island in Northland, Trounson Kauri Park is a 450-hectare reserve featuring an impressive stand of kauri trees.

Activities at Pouto Peninsula

Bird watching, walking, photography and water sports are all popular activities on the Pouto Peninsula.

Pouto Peninsula

Known for its extensive dune systems, the Pouto Peninsula also includes vast areas of wetlands and bush. It's also home to several threatened species, including the New Zealand dotterel.

Activities at Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve

Visitors to the Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve can enjoy boating, snorkelling, scuba diving and canoeing.

Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve

Beneath the waves at the Poor Knights, the caves, arches, tunnels and sheer cliffs provide a great variety of habitats to explore.

Mount Manaia Track

Located at Taurikura Bay, the 3.5-km track leads you through regenerating native bush to the summit of Mount Manaia.

Bream Head/Te Whara Track

The 7.5-km Bream Head/Te Whara Track follows an ancient Maori trail from Urquharts Bay to Ocean Beach. Individuals interested in walking this track should be experienced and fit.

Peach Cove Track

The 2-hour return walk along the Peach Cove Track requires skill and a reasonable level of fitness. The track has several steep climbs before it drops down to Peach Cove's sandy beach.

Activities at Mimiwhangata Coastal Park

Mimiwhangata is a great place for beach activities such as swimming, snorkelling, fishing, picnicking or just relaxing.

Activities at Whangaroa

A stunning area to explore by boat, there are also a number of walks and tramps available. Visit some of the area's archaeological sites and the memorial for the Rainbow Warrior at Matauri Bay.

Mimiwhangata Coastal Park

Find information about tracks and lodgings at Mimiwhangata Coastal Park near Whangarei. Recovering shore bird and marine species can be found at this marine park.

Dukes Nose (Kairara Rocks) Track

To reach the top of Dukes Nose (Kairara Rocks), you must climb 500 m up a very steep track. At the top, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of Whangaroa Harbour.

Activities at Bream Head Scenic Reserve

You can see volcanic rocky outcrops and coastal forest from tracks at Bream Head Scenic Reserve.

Bream Head Scenic Reserve

Bream Head Scenic Reserve is a coastal forest reserve in Northland, home to a range of native species. There are walks and historic sites at Bream Head, and you can stay at Peach Cove Hut.

St Paul's Rock

Follow this track to St Paul's Rock above the Bay of Islands town of Whangaroa to see spectacular views of the harbour.

Wairakau Stream Track

This track is for experienced trampers. It first climbs over a saddle to an old farm road and then descends through regenerating forest to Wairakau Stream. It ends at Lane Cove Hut.

Motukawanui Island Track

The Motukawanui Island Track traverses Motukawanui Island, which is the largest island in the Cavalli Island group. The island features archaeological sites and is home to many native birds, including the endangered NZ dotterel.

Busby Head Track

Located in the Bream Head Scenic Reserve, Busby Track is an easy 3-km loop track that takes you around from Busby Head to Smugglers Bay.

Pukekohe Stream Track

The Pukekohe Stream Track offers visitors the opportunity to view a regenerating kauri forest. A side track leads to an unusual stand of kauri and hard beech.

Kerikeri

The Kororipo-Kerikeri Basin is internationally of cultural and historical significance. The wider Kerikeri area offers a variety of great walking tracks and other recreation opportunities.

Puketi & Omahuta forests

Podocarps and Kauri are home to many rare native birds in Northland's Puketi and Omahuta forests.The forests provide a range of walking, tramping and camping opportunities.

Whangaroa

From mangroves to a Maori pa site, Whangaroa in the Bay of Islands offers visitors a number of interesting places to visit. Motukawanui Island is accessed from here.

Activities at Moturua Island Scenic Reserve

Beautiful bays and picturesque beaches provide plenty of opportunities for swimming and picnicking. The 4 km loop track is easy and well formed.

Moturua Island Scenic Reserve

Visit Captain Cook's anchorage and enjoy the thriving native birdlife on Moturua Island in central Bay of Islands.

Motukawanui Island

Motukawanui Island off the coast of Northland is predator-free and home to a flourishing population of native birds. There are opportunities for snorkelling and swimming and you can stay overnight in a hut.

Opua Forest Paihia Lookout Track

Follow this walking track through regenerating forest to a lookout that offers stunning views over Waitangi, the Bay of Islands and Russell.

Oromahoe Road Traverse

This track near Paihia follows a ridgeline through regenerating podocarp/hardwood forest.

Tapeka Point

This easy track is just 1 km north of Maiki/Flagstaff Hill, near Russell. Tapeka Point is the perfect base for exploring this part of the Bay of Islands by land or water.

Toretore Island

Located near Russell, you can access Toretore Island by crossing a shingle bank at mid-to-low tide. The track winds through a totara forest as it traverses the island.

Flagstaff Hill Track

An important Bay of Islands landmark, you can reach Maiki/Flagstaff Hill by walking up a well-maintained track. The 2.5-km track climbs through regenerating coastal forest.

Fladgate Track

This short track near Russell offers visitors a pleasant walk through regenerating bush down to Waihihi Bay.

Harrison Scenic Reserve Walk

The Harrison Scenic Reserve Walk near Opua is a 1.4-km track through some of the finest remaining coastal forest in the Bay of Islands.

Puketi Nature Trail

You can access the Puketi Nature Trail from the Puketi Recreation area. The loop track winds through a beautiful kauri forest.

Kauri Stump Walk

In the Omahuta Kauri Sanctuary you'll be able to take the Kauri Stump Walk to see the remains of one of the largest kauri trees ever felled.

Waihoanga Gorge Kauri Walk

Take the Waihoanga Gorge Kauri Walk and discover the Pirau Waterfall. The track makes its way through a range of forest species including puriri, taraire, nikau and virgin kauri trees.

Omahuta Kauri Sanctuary Walk

The giant kauri in the Omahuta Kauri Sanctuary were protected from logging in 1951. This short loop track leads you through a stand of mature kauri.

Manginangina Kauri Walk

The short Manginangina Kauri Walk follows a boardwalk that winds through a mature stand of kauri and swamp forest. It's a track that is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Pukatea Ridge Track

Trampers interested in taking the Pukatea Ridge Track in the Puketi Forest should have a high degree of skill and experience, as well as route-finding abilities. The route connects with the Waipapa River Track.

Pirau Ridge Track

The Pirau Ridge Track in Puketi Forest is an easy 11-km walking track. The old logging road provides walking and mountain biking opportunities.

Walnut Track

Walnut Track in the Puketi Forest is a steep ridge track through beautiful kauri forest. The track is recommended for experienced and well-equipped trampers.

Waipapa River Track

The Waipapa River Track is a scenic two-day tramp that follows the Waipapa River through the heart of Puketi Forest. The tramp is only recommended for experienced and well-equipped trampers.

Onekura Track

Tramping track for experienced trampers with good route-finding abilities. The route descends to the Waipapa River.

Activities at Cape Brett

Whether interested in walking the Cape Brett or Whangamumu tracks, taking a refreshing swim and snorkel at Deep Water Cover or learning more about the area's Maori history there is much to do in the Cape Brett area.

Cape Brett

Come for a walk, or view the historic lighthouse at Cape Brett, 26 km from Russell in the Bay of Islands.

Kororipo Pa Historic Walk

An 800-m track leads to the Kororipo Pa which served as a coastal fishing village, a fortified base for war parties and a trading post.

Akeake Reserve Track

This loop track begins at Opito Bay and enters the Akeake Historic Reserve. The track leads to a small beach in the Te Puna Inlet and to a pa site on Tareha Point.

Pa Road Walk

The short Pa Road Walk links Pa Road to the Kerikeri Basin.

Marsden Cross Track

Take the Marsden Cross Track to view the cross that commemorates the first mission settlement and first Christian service conducted in New Zealand.

Rainbow Falls Walk

A short walk along the Kerikeri River leads visitors to the stunning Rainbow Falls.

Kerikeri River Track

This easy 3.5-km walk follows the north bank of the Kerikeri River and crosses through regenerating forest. After passing remnants of a power house, you'll come to the Wharepoke and Rainbow falls.

Hongi Hika Walk

Take a 1-km track through gum trees and regenerating native forest to the Kororipo Pa. The pa served as Hongi Hika's coastal fortified settlement and played an important role in New Zealand's musket war campaigns.

Urupukapuka Island Archaeological Walk

The archaeological walk on Urupukapuka Island is suitable for people of most ages and fitness levels. It's a great place to learn about the area's Maori history.

Ngaiotonga - Twin Bole Track

The Ngaiotonga-Twin Bole Track meanders through stunning native bush before leading to an enormous kauri tree with twin trunks. The short track is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Ngaiotonga - Kauri Grove Walk

Majestic kauri trees and stunning native bush can be seen on the short and easy Ngaiotonga Kauri Grove Walk. The track is just 16 km from Russell.

Whangamumu Track

Take the Whangamumu Track for an easy forest and beach walk to Whangamumu Harbour and Te Toroa Bay. The harbour was where one of New Zealand's last shore-based whaling stations existed.

Motuarohia (Roberton) Island Track

Once out on the water from Paihia or Russell, the first island you see is Motuarohia (Roberton). It features two beautiful lagoons and is the most photographed location in the Bay of Islands.

Moturua Island Track

This 4-km loop track skirts Moturua Island. The island's regenerating forest is home to rare native wildlife, including the North Island robin and New Zealand dotterel.

Cape Brett Track

The Cape Brett Track traverses rugged terrain for 16 km through native and regenerating bush. Expect dramatic coastal views; steep cliffs and drop-offs to the side of the track are a feature.

Places to take dogs in the Kauri Coast area

Learn where in the Kauri Coast area you can take your dog. Some require a permit, others your dog needs to be to be on a leash and some they can run free. Please follow the guidelines.

Places to take dogs in the Kaitaia area

Learn where in Kaitaia you can take your dog. Some require a permit, others your dog needs to be to be on a leash and some they can run free. Please follow the guidelines.

Places to take dogs in the Bay of Islands

Learn where in the Bay of Islands you can take your dog. Some require a permit, others your dog needs to be to be on a leash and some they can run free. Please follow the guidelines.

Places to take dogs in the Whangarei area

Learn where in the Whangarei area you can take your dog. Some require a permit, others your dog needs to be to be on a leash and some they can run free. Please follow the guidelines.

Auckland

Tāwharanui Marine Reserve

The Tāwharanui Marine Reserve, a 400 hectare marine reserve adjacent to the Tawharanui Regional Park, was established in September 2011.

Motutapu Island longer walks

Take a walk on the Pohutukawa Track to view both young and mature pohutukawa, or make a day of it and walk the Motutapu Loop Track.

Motutapu Island shorter walks

Walk through regenerating forest on the Rotary Centennial Walkway or walk the Wetland Track and explore WWII sites.

Motutapu Walkway

The Motutapu Walkway takes you from Islington Bay on Rangitoto Island across the causeway to Home Bay and Emu Bay on Motutapu Island.

Rangitoto Island longer walks

Take a longer walk around the coast of Rangitoto, to adjoining Motutapu Island, or continue on from the summit to Islington Bay.

Rangitoto Island shorter walks

Take a short walk through a kowahi grove or glen of kidney ferns, or a walk along the coast to a gull breeding colony.

Rangitoto Island summit walks

Walk straight to the summit, or take one of the alernative routes to the summit.

South Auckland hunting

The Auckland Area Office issues permits for hunting in two reserves. Pigs and goats are generally the only animals hunted, although escaped deer are occasionally encountered.

Great Barrier Aotea hunting

There are two hunting blocks on Great Barrier Island. Pigs are the only animals hunted on Great Barrier. A hunting permit is required.

Aotea Track (2-3 day walk)

The new Mt Heale Hut adds to the existing Great Barrier Island track network, creating a multi-day tramping experience that includes the existing Kaiaraara Hut.

Fort Takapuna Historic Walk

Fort Takapuna offers an interesting insight into the coastal defences that were built to defend the Auckland harbour entrance from feared Russian invasions.

Fort Takapuna Historic Reserve

Fort Takapuna, used by the New Zealand Defence Forces for over a century, offers a glimpse of New Zealand's 19th and 20th Century military history.

Kermadec Islands

The Kermadec Islands Nature Reserve, located some 1000km northeast of New Zealand, is the most remost area managed by the Department of Conservation and can only be visited with a special permit.

Castaway at Harataonga Bay

Visit Harataonga Bay on Great Barrier Island where Castaway was filmed. Wander the deserted beach now the Castaways have gone or walk the nearby loop track to take in great views of Harataonga Bay and coastline.

Kawau Island Historic Reserve

Visit Kawau Island, former home to Sir George Grey, who developed the stately Mansion House and its exotic gardens. The house, gardens and tracks on the reserve are open to the public.

Mt Tamahunga Walkway

Tramp up to the summit of Mt Tamahunga through regenerating native forest. This track is part of Te Araroa - The Long Pathway.

Logues Bush walking tracks

Two short tracks in Logues Bush, east of Wellsford, loop through regenerating native kauri forest.

Mataitai Forest (Ness Valley) walks

A network of marked tracks in the Mataitai Conservation Area, near Clevedon, suitable for experienced trampers.

Wairarapa Graves walking tracks

Discover the grave sites of those who lost their lives on the SS Wairarapa at Whangapoua beach, Great Barrier Island.

Port Fitzroy walking tracks

Explore the Port Fitzroy area, on Great Barrier Island, on one of these shorter walks, ranging from 15 minutes to an hour.

Kaitoke Hot Springs Track

Kaitoke Hot Springs Track is a popular easy walk to sulphurous hot springs on Great Barrier Island. It's buggy and wheel chair friendly too.

Burrill Track

Burrill Track, in the Okiwi area of Great Barrier Island, was formed in the 1970's by miners prospecting for copper.

Harataonga area tramping tracks

There are a number of tramping tracks in the Harataonga area of Great Barrier Island, which offer great views of the island and surrounding coastline.

Kaiaraara Track and Kauri Dams

The Kaiaraara Track, on Great Barrier Island, heads up past the kauri dam to the summit of Hirakimata (Mt Hobson).

Palmers Track via Windy Canyon

Windy Canyon Lookout is a popular walk on Great Barrier Island, offering spectacular views. You can then continue on Palmers Track to the summit of Mt Hirakimata.

Port Fitzroy tramping tracks

Discover some great views from some of the longer tracks in Port Fitzroy on Great Barrier Island.

Mokoroa Falls Track

The Mokoroa Falls Track comes off the Goldie Bush Walkway, when started from Horseman Rd. It descends along a ridge to a lookout platform.

North Head Historic Reserve

Visit North Head Historic Reserve where a self-guided walk leads you through tunnels and other features of the area's past military defences.

Activities in Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve

Marine reserves are great places to swim, snorkel, dive and boat. Remember that the reserves are 'no take' areas, so fishing or removing marine life is not permitted.

Dome Forest car park to Govan Wilson Rd, Matakana

A challenging longer walk (7 hrs) through regenerating native forest that is also part of Te Araroa, The Long Pathway. The track starts at the Dome carpark and ends at Govan Wilson Rd, Matakana.

Goat Island Walkway

This return walk traverses the coast part way to Cape Rodney. overlooking New Zealand's oldest and most popular marine reserve.

Dome Forest car park to lookout

Starting from the Dome tearooms carpark, steps lead up along a narrow road reserve to the Dome Forest conservation area.

Dome Forest car park to Waiwhiu Grove

From the Dome Forest lookout the track continues to the Dome Summit where you get views of Taranga Island.

Vining Walkway

The Vining Walkway leads you up and through Vining Scenic Reserve. The track follows a ridge through open forest before joining the Auckland Regional Council Ring Track.

Goldie Bush Walkway

Goldie Bush Scenic Reserve offers a variety of walks through coastal kauri forest, taking in the impressive Mokoroa Falls.

Mokoroa Stream Track

The Mokoroa Stream Track is a challenging loop walk which comes off the Goldie Walkway.

Mount Auckland Atuanui Walkway

Take a walk to the summit of Mount Auckland (Atuanui) through regenerating native forest. At the summit you'll have panoramic views of Kaipara Harbour and Hoteo River Estuary.

Moirs Hill Walkway

Stroll to view the Pohuehue waterfall or walk the longer loop (also known as the Beverley Price Loop Track) through regenerating forest in the Pohuehue Scenic Reserve, just south of Warkworth.

Te Henga Walkway

The cliff top walk from Bethells Beach (Te Henga) to south of Muriwai Beach (or reverse) reveals stunning views of Auckland's wild west coast.

Stony Batter Historic Reserve walks

Stony Batter Historic Reserve at the eastern end of Waiheke Island is renowned for its remarkable rock outcrops and extensive tunnels and gun sites dating back to World War II.

Okura Bush Walkway

Take a 3-hour return walk along the Okura Bush Walkway. The walkway winds its way through the Okura River Estuary and through coastal forest to Karepiro Bay and historic Dacre Cottage.

North Head Historic Walk

The 2-km self-guided North Head Historic Walk will introduce you to the military history of North Head. Learn about the defences that were placed on the headland to protect Auckland from feared Russian invasions.

Mt William Walkway

Walk to the summit of Mt William or take a shorter walk to a kauri grove, through Mt William Scenic Reserve, just south of the Bombay Hills.

North Auckland hunting

The Warkworth Area Office issues permits for hunting in six reserves. Goats are generally the only animals hunted in these reserves. A hunting permit is required.

Little Barrier Island Nature Reserve (Hauturu-o-Toi)

Little Barrier Island (Hauturu-o-Toi) is one of New Zealand's predator-free nature reserves, and home to a multitude of endangered species. You must first obtain a permit to visit.

Activities at Tiritiri Matangi Scientific Reserve (Open Sanctuary)

Be sure to spend time at the visitor centre before venturing out on one of the many bush or coastal walks. You'll also want to visit the island's historic lighthouse and pa sites.

Tiritiri Matangi Scientific Reserve (Open Sanctuary)

You can be one of the lucky few to visit Tiritiri Matangi each day. This scientific reserve near Auckland is home to many native species due to being predator-free.

Motuora Recreation Reserve

Come to Moturoa Island for a picnic, or camp for the night at this predator-free Auckland reserve. It's possible to hear and sometimes see (at night) North Island brown kiwi on the island.

Activities

The best way to experience the reserve is by snorkelling or diving. Coastal walkways meander through coastal forest and offer fine views and quiet picnic spots.

Cape Rodney-Okakari Point Marine Reserve (Goat Island)

New Zealand's first marine reserve, Cape Rodney-Okakari Point was established in 1975. It is also known as Goat Island or Leigh marine reserve.

Hauraki Gulf Marine Park

The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park spans several regions. This link will take you to information about the islands and marine reserves in the Hauraki Gulf islands section of the website.

Activities at Rakitu (Arid) Island Scenic Reserve

On a day visit to Rakitu you might choose to snorkel, dive or take a leisurely walk. Several historic sites, including three pa are found on the island.

Rakitu (Arid) Island Scenic Reserve

Rakitu (Arid) Island is a predator-free scenic reserve in the Auckland area. The island is home to a diverse population of forest and birds.

Activities at Mokohinau Islands Scenic & Nature Reserves

The Mokohinau Islands provide a dramatic backdrop for boating. The waters are excellent for diving and snorkelling. On Burgess Island you can visit the lighthouse and the remains of World War II military installations.

Mokohinau Islands Scenic & Nature Reserves

The Mokohinau Islands lie 100 km north-east of Auckland. The islands are home to skink and muttonbird populations. Recreational activities include walking and diving.

Activities on Great Barrier Island Aotea

On Great Barrier Island you can take a soak in thermal springs, tramp through coastal forests or snorkel in an isolated cove. Boating, kayaking and fishing are other popular activities on the island.

Great Barrier Island Aotea

Great Barrier Island is the largest island off New Zealand's North Island and lies 100 kilometres north-east of Auckland. More than 60 per cent of the island is managed by DOC.

Activities in Te Matuku Marine Reserve

People are welcome to visit the Te Matuku Marine Reserve to picnic, swim, snorkel, dive, take photos, kayak and watch birds.

Te Matuku Marine Reserve

The 690-hectare Te Matuku Marine Reserve protects one of Waiheke Island's largest and least disturbed estuaries, along with an area outside Te Matuku Bay in the Waiheke Channel.

Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve

Just 20 km north of Auckland lies the Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve. The reserve protects a variety of coastal habitats: sandy beaches, rocky reefs, estuarine mudflats and mangroves.

Activities in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park

Find out about the individual islands and marine reserves in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.

Hauraki Gulf Marine Park

The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park is home to a myriad of islands and five marine reserves, most of which can be visited for recreation and relaxation.

Auckland Visitor Centre

Visit the DOC Auckland Visitor Centre at Princes Wharf, downtown Auckland, to find out about conservation areas around Auckland and throughout New Zealand.

Activities at Rangitoto Island Scenic Reserve

Take a walk to the Rangitoto's summit or meander along the many coastal and forest walk available. Considered one of the world's botanical gems, it's a great place to view unusual plants.

Rangitoto Island Scenic Reserve

Rangitoto Island Scenic Reserve is the youngest volcano in the Auckland volcanic field. It is home to our largest pohutukawa forest, and some unique plantlife.

Motutapu Island Recreation Reserve

Motutapu Island Reserve is popular for its historic and recreational value. You can come camping and exploring on this Auckland island.

Activities on Motutapu Island

When you visit Motutapu, make sure you take a walk along the Motutapu Walkway and visit the many archaeological and WWI military sites on the island. Swimming, camping and picnicking are all popular activities here.

Activities on Browns Island (Motukorea)

Motukorea has long been a popular picnic destination for Aucklanders. You may want to kayak, walk and bird watch while you're here. There are no visitor facilities on the island.

Browns Island (Motukorea) Recreation Reserve

The Auckland volcanic reserve Browns Island (Motukorea) is home to Maori and Eurpoean historic sites and artefacts.

Activities at Motuihe Recreation Reserve

Access to Motuihe Recreation Reserve is by private boat, water taxi or Fullers ferry. Once there you'll enjoy camping, swimming, walks, visiting historic sites and bird watching.

Motuihe Recreation Reserve

Motuihe Island in the Hauraki Gulf offers history, nature and recreation. It is a popular Auckland destination for camping, exploring and relaxing on the beach as well as being the site of an exciting community-led ecological restoration programme.

Coromandel

Coromandel hunting

The Coromandel Peninsula offers 8 hunting blocks on public conservation land.

Matamataharakeke Track

Part of the original Waikawau to Kennedy Bay route used by gold miners and loggers. It goes up the main ridge past a series of lookouts giving views over bush covered hills to coast and islands.

Muriwai walk

Located beyond Port Jackson campsite, this stunning coastal walk leaves the Muriwai Hilltop car park and heads along a benched farm track along the ridge towards Wharekaiatua Pa.

Kauaeranga Valley walking tracks

Catleys Track and the Wainora Kauri Track are two of the walking tracks in the Kauaeranga Valley.

Kauaeranga Valley short walks

You'll find numerous short walks in the Kauaeranga Valley. Many of the tracks wind through regenerating bush where remnants of the area's logging history can still be seen.

Kauaeranga Valley tramping tracks

Find out about the tramping tracks in the Kauaeranga Valley area.

Kauaeranga Kauri Trail

The Kauaeranga Kauri Trail traverses steep and rugged country along tracks built by kauri bushmen between the 1870's and 1920's. You can walk all, or do parts of the track.

Waiau Falls and Kauri Grove Lookout

Take a 30-minute return walk to Waiau Falls and its swimming hole in the Waiau Falls Scenic Reserve on the Coromandel Peninsula.

Square Kauri Tree

The 15th largest kauri on the Coromandel Peninsula is found just west of the Tapu-Coroglen Road summit.

Fantail Bay

A tramping track leaves from the Fantail Bay campsite and leads to the bushline where you'll find outstanding views.

Waiomu Kauri Grove

A 2-hour return walk allows you to visit one of the Coromandel Peninsula's finest remaining kauri stands, Waiomu Kauri Grove.

Whitianga Rock Walk

A short walking track from Ferry Landing Wharf leads into Whitianga Rock Scenic and Historic Reserve.

Cathedral Cove Walk

Take a trip to Cathedral Cove to view some of New Zealand's most spectacular coastal scenery. The track leads down to Gemstone and Stingray Bays as well as Cathedral Cove.

Maratoto and Wentworth Valley tramping tracks

The Maratoto and Wentworth Valley have a number of tramping tracks available to explore.

Waitaia Track

Once extensively logged and mined, a regenerating coastal forest now greets visitors as they walk along the Waitaia Track.

Sailors Grave Whenuakite

Just north of Tairua, a track will take you down Lynch Stream to Otara Bay. At low tide you can then walk from Otara Bay to Sailors Grave Historic Reserve and Te Karo Bay.

Maratoto/Golden Cross Track

The Maratoto/Golden Cross Track takes you past an old mining area and a regenerating broadleaf/hardwood forest.

Wharekirauponga Track

The Wharekirauponga Track in Parakawai Valley and the Royal Standard Goldmine area follows along an old horse-drawn tram track.

Twin Kauri Track

A 30 minute walk in the Twin Kauri Scenic Reserve takes you by groves of tree fern and kauri.

Wentworth Valley Track

Take the Wentworth Valley Track to the beautiful Wentworth Falls.

Kauri Block Track

The Kauri Block walk on the Coromandel Peninsula follows a ridge through regenerating bush and native plantings. Be sure to walk up the side track which leads you to a pa and offers spectacular views.

Papa Aroha

The walking track in Papa Aroha Scenic Reserve meanders through a typical coastal forest of puriri, kohekohe and pohutukawa. The track provides access to an attractive beach.

Coromandel Walkway

This Coromandel Walkway follows an easy grade along the scenic coast between Fletcher Bay and Stony Bay.

Opera Point

Opera Point on the Coromandel Peninsula offers a walk on an old tramway line to a pleasant beach.

Kaipawa Trig Track

The Kaipawa Trig is accessible from two different tracks. Both tracks go through regenerating forest to the trig.

Tokatea Lookout

A short, steep track from the summit of Kennedy Bay Road, Coromandel Peninsula, leads to the Tokatea Lookout.

Broken Hills Recreation Area walking tracks

Coromandel's Broken Hills Recreation Area has a number of walking tracks through old mining sites.

Kauaeranga Valley

The Kauaeranga Valley has many campgrounds nestled beside the Kauaeranga River, which flows down from the Coromandel Ranges through the valley. The valley has a choice of walks, swimming spots and historic relics from kauri logging days.

Coromandel Peninsula

Join New Zealanders and tourists in enjoying the popular Coromandel Peninsula in the Waikato. There are numerous nature reserves here which help preserve our endangered species.

Activities on the Coromandel Peninsula

Enjoy horse riding, mountain biking and off-road driving on the peninsula. Hunters with permits can hunt on public conservation land.

Activities in Te Whanganui-A-Hei (Cathedral Cove) Marine Reserve

There are many recreational opportunities and places of interest to visit in the area. You can enjoy snorkelling, diving, boating and walking scenic tracks.

Activities in the Kauaeranga Valley

Horse riding, mountain biking, abseiling, walking, tramping, camping, fishing, swimming and hunting are the types of recreational opportunities available in Coromandel Forest Park.

Te Whanganui-A-Hei (Cathedral Cove) Marine Reserve

Te Whanganui-A-Hei/Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve protects the marine habitats around Motueka, Mahurangi, Motukorure, Moturoa islands.

Waikato

The Timber Trail: Pureora - Ongarue

The first 8 km section of the 80 km cycle trail between Pureora and Ongarue is now open and ready for use.

Waione Tram Mountain Bike Track

This track follows quad tracks and an old tram line in the Maramataha Valley in the southwestern part of Pureora Forest Park. Allow a full day to complete it. While not especially technical, it is a long and remote Grade 3 track.

Select Loop Road

A gentle ride through beautiful forest on formed 2WD metalled roads.

Okahukura Loop

Okahukura Loop is for more skilled riders, but is not particularly technical.

Western King Country hunting

Learn about the many hunting opportunities available on public conservation land in the Western King Country.

Pureora Forest and surrounds hunting

Learn about the many hunting opportunities available on public conservation land in the Waikato area.

Te Miro and Te Tapui Scenic Reserves hunting

Learn about hunting opportunities in the Te Miro and Te Tapui scenic reserves.

Pirongia Forest Park and surrounds hunting

Find out about hunting opportunities in Pirongia Forest Park and surrounds.

North Waikato hunting area

Learn about the many hunting opportunities available on public conservation land in the North Waikato area.

Whangamarino Historic Walk

This short walk takes in the Whangamarino Redoubt and Te Teoteo's pa - two key sites of conflict during the Waikato War of 1863-64.

Whareorino Conservation Area

Visit the Whareorino Conservation Area - the largest, and one of the most valuable, forested areas in the western King Country.

Mapara Track

You can hear and sometimes see kokako on the Mapara Track following a successful kokako recovery project.

Mangaotaki walk and Waitanguru Falls walk

Two short walking tracks along the Mangaotaki Rd, west of Piopio.

Mangapohue Natural Bridge

Mangapohue Natural Bridge is highlight on the scenic drive from Waitomo Village to Marokopa.

Opapaka Pa walk

A short walk 7km from the Waitomo turn-off. The walk takes you up through native forest before crossing a stile onto farmland to the pa site.

Omaru Falls walk

A gentle 30 min walk through bush and over farmland to the beautiful Omaru Falls. On Omaru Road, clearly signposted from SH4.

Pirongia Forest Park routes

Find out about routes in Pirongia Forest Park.

Waikato wetlands

Find out about visiting wetlands in the Waikato.

Mapara Wildlife Reserve

Mapara Wildlife Reserve (1400 ha) has been the focus of an intensive and successful kokako recovery project. You can hear and sometimes see kokako from a moderately graded tramping track.

Pureora Forest Park walking tracks

Pureora Forest Park provides a range of walking tracks through forest and some offer spectacular views of the region.

Whareorino Forest tramping tracks

Leitch's Hut is accessible by three tracks in Whareorino Forest allowing visitors to plan for an overnight tramp.

Waitomo Walkway

The Waitomo Walkway traverses classic limestone landscape, meanders beside the Waitomo Stream through forest and open farmland.

Waitomo to Marokopa short walks

Several short walks along the scenic drive through Waitomo's limestone landscape to the historic west coast fishing settlement of Marokopa.

Ruakuri walk

Ruakuri Scenic Reserve contains classic limestone outcrops, and is also a place of strong spiritual and cultural significance to Maori.

Pureora Forest Park short walks

The 78,000-hectare Pureora Forest Park straddles the Hauhungaroa and Rangitoto ranges west of Lake Taupo and east of Te Kuiti.

Tawarau Forest tramping tracks

The limestone features and native vegetation in the Tawarau Forest can best be seen by walking on one of the forest's tracks. The Loop Route, Gorge Track and Double Falls Route are all scenic tramps.

Pureora Forest Park tramping tracks

There are a range of tramping tracks in Pureora Forest Park, ranging from a few hours to three days.

Pirongia Forest Park tramping tracks

Pirongia Forest Park has a range of tramping tracks.

Karioi Summit tracks

Karioi is an ancient volcano and the views from the summit and lookouts are spectacular.

Pirongia: Kaniwhaniwha walking tracks

These tracks are accessed from Limeworks Loop Road and are suitable for family outings, although the track to the kahikatea tree may be too long for very young children.

Pirongia's Mangakara Nature Walk

The Mangakara Nature Walk in Pirongia Forest Park takes about 1 hour to complete. It is accessible to people of most ages and fitness levels but is not negotiable by wheelchairs.

Maungakawa Scenic Reserve tracks

There are two tracks in the reserve, the 40 minute walk to Maungakawa Road and a shorter 20 minute loop walk.

Te Tapui Loop Track

Native forest clothes Te Tapui Scenic Reerve and a loop track follows through the bush and up to the summit, where there is a lookout tower with great views of surrounding countryside.

Karakariki Track

The Karakariki Scenic Reserve was originally set aside as a water conservation reserve. At one time the forest was dominated by kauri but this was milled out in the early 1900s.

Kakepuku Track

The Kakepuku Track in Kakepuku Historic Reserve climbs up through bush to the summit of Kakepuku, an old volcano.

Hapuakohe Walkway

The Hapuakohe Walkway can be done as a 2-day trek, split by the Kaihere-Ohinewai Road, or smaller sections can be completed within a day. It is suitable for experienced trampers only.

Bryant Memorial Reserve tracks

Two short walking tracks leaving from the Bryant Memorial Reserves.

Wairēinga/Bridal Veil Falls

Just a 10 minute walk will bring you to the top of Wairēinga/Bridal Veil Falls. The track follows Pakoka River and is suitable for push chairs and is wheelchair accessible to the top of the falls.

Karamu Walkway

It is best to begin the Karamu Walkway at the Four Brothers Scenic Reserve on State Highway 23.

Pukemokemoke Bush Loop Track

The Pukemokemoke Bush Loop Track is a 1 hr 30 min walk through bush.

Te Kauri Park Circuit Walk

This 1 hour return walk at Te Kauri Park includes a swing bridge over Waikuku Stream. The park also features several other short walks.

Maungakawa Scenic Reserve

Walk through native forest and visit Gudex Memorial Park in the Maungakawa Scenic Reserve.

Hakarimata Scenic Reserve

The Hakarimata Scenic Reserve near Ngaruawahia is a great place to see kauri, especially the large kauri on the Kauri Loop Track.

Kauri Loop Track

This well formed track in the Hakarimata Scenic Reserve offers spectacular views, beautiful bush and one of the largest kauri trees in the Waikato.

Hakarimata Walkway

The Hakarimata Walkway, in the Hakarimata Scenic Reserve, is one of the first walkways opened in New Zealand.

Hakarimata Summit track

The Hakarimata Summit track in the Hakarimata Scenic Reserve continues from the Waterworks Walk.

Waterworks Track

The Waterworks Track, in the Hakarimata Scenic Reserve leaves from Brownlee Avenue and passes through attractive bush and alongside Mangarata Stream on the way to an old dam.

Activities in Pureora Forest Park

Mountain biking and hunting are popular activities in the Pureora Forest Park.

Pureora Forest Park

Pureora Forest Park straddles the Hauhungaroa and Rangitoto ranges west of Lake Taupo and east of Te Kuiti.

Ruakuri Caves & Bush Scenic Reserve

Ruakuri Reserve encompasses 114 ha of native bush and limestone formations. The reserve is only 2 km from the Waitomo glowworm cave.

Activities in Pirongia Forest Park

Walking, tramping, camping, fishing, swimming, caving, mountain biking and hunting are the types of recreational opportunities available in Pirongia Forest Park.

Pirongia Forest Park

Explore Mt Karioi, Mt Pirongia or the Kaniwhaniwha Caves in Pirongia Forest Park.

Bay of Plenty

Te Tihi o Tawa Trail

Te Tihi o Tawa is a specifically built trail through native bush with great downhills for mountain bikers. It starts from the highest point in Whakarewarewa Forest and links into 'Billy T' half way down.

The Waioeka Journey Te Awa a Tamatea

Discover the stories of the Waioeka Gorge through a set of historical interpretation points at rest stops along the highway between Opotiki and Gisborne.

Rotorua Lakes and surrounds

The Rotorua Lakes area covers approximately 35,000 hectares of public land, made up of relatively small reserves bordered mostly by farmland, pine forest or lakes.

Tauranga area hunting

The Tauranga area covers the Kaimai and Mamaku forests, including the Otanewainuku and Otawa Scenic Reserves, and a number of small reserves in the Western Bay of Plenty.

Wairoa Track

The track provides spectacular views of the Wairoa Valley to Ananui Falls. The central Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park is rich in cultural and historical remains including logging era relics.

Kaituna Kayak Trail

Increased water levels in the Kaituna reserve mean that kayaking is now possible. Experience the wetland from a new perspective on this short, easy kayak trip.

Ngamuwahine Track

This track leads from the end of Ngamuwahine Road and takes you to a junction with the Leyland O'Brien Tramline Track.

Otawa Reservoir Track

A well defined track leads to a small clearing beside Te Puke's original water source.

Mt Ngongotaha Nature Loop Track

The Loop Track is a short walk orientated towards families or school groups to provide an experience close to town showcasing the beautiful flora and fauna of Mt Ngongotaha for all to see.

Karangahake Windows Walk

This spectacular walk passes through the relics of the Tasman and Crown mining operations in Karangahake Gorge.

Mt Ngongotaha Jubilee Track

The only walking track up to the summit of Mt Ngongotaha. Passes through native forest with views of one of the largest rata trees in the Bay of Plenty.

Kaimai Heritage Trail

Discover treasure in these public parks featuring gentle walks and day visitor attractions plus overnight trips through historic countryside.

Activities on the Kaimai Heritage Trail

Rock climbing, mountain biking and fly fishing are all fun activities in addition to tramping or walking the Kaimai Heritage Trail.

Hatupatu Trail

Hatupatu is an alternative ending to Tuhoto Ariki Trail leading back down the hill ending at the junction of Moerangi and Tawa roads. Near the exit of the mountain bike trail 'Billy T'.

Tuhoto Ariki Trail

Specifically designed dual use trail through native bush with great downhills and some decent climbs for the mountain bikers. Starts from the highest point in Whakarewarewa Forest.

Okareka Mistletoe Walk

The Okareka Mistletoe Walk was built as a joint venture between the Rotorua branches of the Botanical Society and Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society. The walk provides views of the threatened native mistletoe.

Tikitapu Nature Walk

The Tikitapu Nature Walk provides an opportunity to learn about the local flora and fauna through information panels along the track.

Leyland O'Brien Tramline Track

Explore the old Leyland O'Brien tramline besides the headwaters of the Ngamuwahine River.

Ngamarama / Te Tuhi Track

A challenging east-west crossing of the Kaimai Ranges featuring stream crossings and historic tramways.

Tuahu Track

This is an east-west crossing of the Kaimai Ranges used since the 1890's linking Katikati and Te Aroha.

Sentinel Rock Track

A challenging climb to an isolated rock outcrop in the Kaimai Ranges that offers spectacular views across the valley.

Kaituna Wetland Loop Track

Several walking tracks and a wonderful viewing hide have been built so you get up close and personal with the wetland.

Okere Falls Scenic Reserve

This reserve has significant Maori cultural and spiritual value. It features the waterfalls of the Kaituna River and is the site of New Zealand's first hydro-electic power station.

Kaituna wetland

The Kaituna wetland is a major legacy for future generations.

Hamurana Springs track

This nice, peaceful track is just bliss when you want to get away from the city. Enjoy the birdlife and the beautiful clear spring that runs into Lake Rotorua.

Waiotapu Thermal track

This magnificent thermal wonderland is perfect for a short stop to view the hot, bubbling mud pools.

Bluff Stream Kauri Loop Track

See some of the Bay of Plenty's remnant Kauri giants on this track.

Dalys Clearing Loop Track

A highlight along this track is the extensive groves of nikau nestled under tall tawa, kohekohe and puketea forest.

White Pine Bush Track

A 250 metre wheelchair accessible walkway has been built into the heart of White Pine Bush Scenic Reserve.

Mount Te Aroha tramping tracks

A series of walks up and around Mount Te Aroha offer stunning views of the Waikato and give access to the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park.

Nga Tapuwae o Toi Walkway tracks

Nga Tapuwae o Toi, or the 'Footprints of Toi', is a walkway which captures the essence of the Whakatane district.

Waitengaue Track

Enjoy walking along the former Waitengaue bush tramway on this track.

Karangahake Gorge Crown Track to Dickey's Flat

This track showcases beautiful scenery, good swimming holes and interesting mining relics.

The North-South Track

This is a multi-day tramp using rugged, unmarked routes. Trampers will need to camp in addition to staying in huts.

Henderson Tramline Loop Track

This walk follows a branch of the tramline through the bush to the North South track, and returns along a separate tramline branch back to the road.

Kaimai Summit Loop Track

This easy, peaceful walking track lingers beside a small fresh water stream.

Wairere Falls Track

Wairere Falls Track weaves its way through moss covered rocks and tree roots. Large round boulders form natural pools and cascading waterfalls.

Eliza Mine Loop Track

Evidence of the past can be savoured today as trampers walk through the Eliza Mine Loop Track.

Te Rereatukahia Loop Track

Grass clearings and an old fence are a legacy of days gone by when this section was highly modified by burning and farming.

Lindemann Loop Track

There is a popular lookout through this track with scenic views over the northern Bay of Plenty.

Ananui Falls Track

Experience the Ananui Falls Track with delightful scenery along the way.

Waitawheta Tramway

This track is relatively flat but requires several river crossings as it follows an old tramline through the spectacular Waitawheta Gorge.

Waiorongomai Valley tramping tracks

The history of gold mining in the area has left many pack tracks and tramlines which can now be walked. Choose 1-2 hour walks, or combine them for a full and challenging day's walk.

Aongatete Long Loop Walk

Enjoy more of a challenge with the Aongatete Long Loop Walk.

Rapurapu Track

This walking track is a beautiful cool, retreat during the summer months, with mature tawa-podocarp forest, a lovley stream with swimming holes and three impressive kauri trees that are growing at around their southern most limit.

Tuahu Kauri walking tracks

Kauri trees feature on these walks. Retrace an old Maori route that was also used as a bridle track in the 1980s.

Otanewainuku walking tracks

Experience Mount Otanewainuku's natural features on a variety of short walking tracks.

Otawa Trig Track

Enjoy a walk through attractive lowland forest dominated by tawa and rewarewa.

Aongatete short walks

This area contains some lovely lowland podocarp-broadleaf forest with a variety of native species.

Orokawa Scenic Reserve short walking tracks

There are a number short walks you can enjoy in the Orokawa Scenic Reserve.

Lake Okataina tramping tracks

Lake Okataina Scenic Reserve contains fine examples of rimu, totara, rata and kahikatea. Pohutukawa grace the lake shores, and the reserve is also rich in birdlife.

Lake Okataina walking tracks

Lake Okataina Scenic Reserve provides a wealth of walking opportunities. Find out about some of the walking tracks available.

Rainbow Mountain-Summit Track

Get a complete 360 degree view over the region, after climbing Rainbow Mountain-Summit Track.

Rainbow Mountain-Crater Lake Walk

Enjoy this easy walking track with great views over two crater lakes.

Tarawera Outlet to Humphries Bay

This area was extensively altered by the 1886 Tarawera eruption and the landscape is being slowly regenerated by native plant species.

Tarawera Outlet to Falls Track

See the Tarawera River disappearing underground at various sites before it re-emerges through the spectacular Tarawera Falls through narrow fissures in a fractured rhyolite lava cliff.

Tarawera Falls Track

The track runs between the Waterfall road carpark to the spectacular falls, where water surges out of fissures in a high cliff face.

Okere Falls Track

The Okere River is a site of significant Maori cultural and spiritual values. Okere River meaning "the place of drifting", is an 11 km stretch of the Kaituna River.

Hinehopu/Hongi's Track

This track highlights the area's incredible native forest and cultural importance. Beautiful beach at Korokitewao Bay (Lake Rotoiti) for swimming and picnicking.

Blue Lake Track

Enjoy native bush and quiet beaches. The track provides good opportunities to look out over the Blue Lake (Tikitapu) and Green Lake (Rotokakahi).

Te Waihou Walkway

Te Waihou Walkway lies alongside the upper reaches of the Waihou River, where the water is extremely clear and pure, with an intense blue hue.

Kaharoa Kokako Track

Kokako Track also known as the Hollow Track meanders its way down through some beautiful forest to Onaia Stream. This is a tranquil and secluded spot, ideal for a picnic or breakfast stop after listening to the dawn chorus of kokako.

Mangorewa Track

This track passes through a fine example of lowland forest, one of the few areas left unlogged on the Mamaku Plateau.

Isthmus Track

This track is dominated by the majestic Mount Tarawera.

Mokaihaha Track

Large podocarps and a chance to hear kaka and other native birdlife while walking along the Mokaihaha Track which takes you past Lake Rotohokahoka.

Waiorongomai Valley

The Waiorongomai Valley in Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park contains the historic site of the Piako County Tramway, New Zealand oldest tramway. You can walk in the valley through regenerating native bush.

Mount Te Aroha

At 952 metres Mount Te Aroha is the highest point in the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park. A number of tracks lead up and around this distinctive landmark and the abandoned mines and mine trails nearby.

Otawa Scenic Reserve

Otawa Scenic Reserve in the Papamoa Hills contains attractive lowland forest dominated by tawa and rewarewa.

Otanewainuku Forest

Accessible by road, Otanewainuku is a great place to see original forest with giant trees and healthy bird life. A volunteer trust helps to conserve the wildlife here.

Mokaihaha Ecological Area

Mokaihaha Ecological Area, in Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park, is rich in Maori history and has high conservation and scientific values. Walkers on the Mokaihaha Track can listen to the calls of tui, kereru, bellbirds and fantail.

Kaharoa Conservation Area

Kaharoa and the adjoining Onaia Ecological Area are renowned for the endangered kokako. You can walk the Kokako Track through forest to a secluded spot at Onaia Stream.

Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway

Situated at the base of the Coromandel Range, the Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway follows the old railway line between Paeroa and Waihi, giving access to impressive remains from the mining and railway eras.

Lake Rotoiti

Lake Rotoiti has a navigable water link with Lake Rotorua and features a number of significant historic sites.

Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve

Located 26 kilometres south-east of Rotorua, Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve contains a number of plants which are unique to geothermal areas. The popular Crater Lakes Walk is a one-hour return hike.

Lake Rerewhakaaitu Recreational Reserves

Camping, picnicking and boating are all popular recreational activities at Lake Rerewhakaaitu. A significant site for wildlife, the lake supports breeding populations of dabchicks, scaup and banded dotterel.

Lake Tarawera Scenic Reserve

At Lake Tarawera Scenic Reserve you can visit Tarawera Landing, The Orchard, Humphries Bay and Hot Water Beach.

Lake Okataina Scenic Reserve

Just 22 kilometres north-east of Rotorua, Lake Okataina Scenic Reserve is home to a number of species of native birds.

Blue Lake

Located near Rotorua, Blue Lake is popular with water skiers, swimmers and boaties. You can follow an easy walking track that circles around the lake.

Activities in Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park

Enjoy the historic character of the northern Kaimai or go tramping or hunting in the central or southern zones. The unusual combination of semi-coastal and alpine plant species makes this forest unique and highly significant.

Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park

Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park has a number of historic mining and kauri logging sites within its boundaries. The park also features several popular tramping tracks.

Activities in Tuhua (Mayor Island) Marine Reserve

Boating, swimming, diving and snorkelling are all encouraged within Tuhua (Mayor Island) Marine Reserve.

Tuhua (Mayor Island) Marine Reserve

Located north of Tauranga, Tuhua (Mayor Island) Marine Reserve covers about three square nautical miles and five kilometres of coastline from Tumutu Point east to Turanganui Point.

Tūhua (Mayor Island)

Tūhua is privately owned and landing is only allowed by permission of the Tūhua Trust Board. Opportunities to enjoy the island's unique character and wildlife must be pre-arranged.

Orokawa Scenic Reserve

Orokawa Scenic Reserve contains uncommon remnants of coastal forest, pohutukawa-fringed beaches, beautiful views and picnic spots, and good rock fishing.

Karangahake Gorge

The Karangahake Gorge region combines gold mining history and natural beauty, much of it accessible through a variety of walks.

Activities in Karangahake Gorge

Walking, cycling, fishing, canoeing, abseiling and swimming are the types of recreational opportunities available in Karangahake Gorge.

East Coast

Whirinaki Forest Mountain Bike Track

The Whirinaki Forest Mountain Bike Track is purpose built and weaves through one of the most spectacular and interesting forests in the world.

Whirinaki Rangitaiki hunting

There are good opportunities to hunt for red deer and pig throughout Whirinaki Forest Park.

Te Urewera National Park hunting

Te Urewera National Park has numerous opportunites for hunting pigs and deer.

Where to hunt

View the description of hunting places in the Whakatane Waioeka Urutawa area.

Whakatane Waioeka Urutawa hunting

There are good opportunities to hunt for pigs, feral deer and goats in the Whakatane Waioeka Urutawa.

Where to hunt

View the description of hunting places in the Gisborne Raukumara area.

Gisborne Raukumara hunting

There are good opportunities to hunt for pigs, deer and goats in the Gisborne Raukumara.

Ridge Track

A demanding track suitable for fit walkers. The tramp will take you 2 hours and leads between the Nikau Loop and Mangakawa tracks.

Tokenui to Te Waiti Route

This route leads through the middle of the Urutawa Conservation Area. As it is rough and gorgy in places it is recommended for experienced trampers only.

Pakihi - Te Waiti loop route

Starting at the Pakihi Road end, this route exits onto Te Waiti Valley Road.

Pakihi Hut to Motu Road

This route follows the now disused Motu-Opotiki stock track and is graded and well benched.

Hastings Hut Route

A short but challenging route to the Hastings Hut via the Hastings Pole Bridge.

Te Waiti to Lagoon Route

Continue on from the Te Waiti Hut Walk to Lagoon Hut.

Te Waiti Hut Walk

This track affords views of Te Waiti Stream and lowland forest and is suitable for a family day trip.

Te Waiti Nature Trail

An ideal family walk through nikau and tawa forest.

Urutawa Conservation Area

Located 14km south of Opotiki, the Urutawa Conservation Area is predominantly semi coastal and contains a wide variety of threatened birds and special fauna.

Waioeka Conservation Area

This 39,200ha area covers a large part of the Waioeka River catchment, and is an area of outstanding natural value.

Waioeka Gorge Scenic Reserve

New Zealand's longest scenic reserve, affording ready access to a wide range of recreational opportunities.

Manganuku, Wahaatua, Pakihi Heads Track

This longer track follows the Manganunuku and Wahaatua Streams to Motu.

Little Manganuku Track

This track starts from a historic 'Howe Truss' bridge and has excellent waterfall and forest views.

Moanui, Tawa, Koranga Track

This round trip is a longer tramp and can be tackled in its entirety, or as two separate return trips to Tawa or Koranga Forks Hut.

Moanui, Nikau, Wairata Track

This challenging track cuts through dense bush and traces the headwaters of the Waioeka and its tributaries, offering excellent opportunities for trout fishing.

Tauranga Loop Track

This walking track crosses the historic Tauranga Bridge and passes alongside the Tauranga Stream.

Mangapumarumaru Track

This strenuous 4 hour track starts in the Waioeka Gorge, 23km south of Opotiki.

Cook Landing Site National Historic Reserve

This National Historic Reserve Commemorates the first European landfall and meeting with Maori in 1769. It is also the landing place of the Horouta and Te Ikaroa-a-Rauru waka.

Te Urewera Mainland Island

A walk through Te Urewera Mainland Island offers visitors a unique opportunity to view and experience a true and real New Zealand.

Mangakawa Track

A challenging track suitable for fit walkers. The tramp will take you 2 hours and 30 minutes and is accessed from the Nikau Loop Track.

Nikau Loop Track

An easy track suitable for family groups taking around 20 minutes to complete.

Panekire Bluffs

Sections of the Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk along the Panekiri Bluffs can be walked from Lake Waikaremoana. Two hour return trips to a full day tramp and stay at the Panekiri Hut are possibilities.

Old Maori Trail

The Old Maori Trail is also know as the Rosie Bay - Lake Kaitawa Track and follows what was once a Maori trail to the lake.

Waimana Valley tracks

The Waimana Valley at the northern end of Te Urewera National Park offers visitors a number of tramping options. You might be lucky to spot a long-tailed bat on one of your excursions in this area.

Ngutuoha Nature Trail

An easy loop trail with interpretation panels provide a 1 hour walking experience in the Waimana Valley at the north end of Te Urewera National Park.

Manuoha to Waikareiti Track

The Manuoha-Waikareiti Track is a spectacular and challenging walk suited to reasonably experienced trampers. The 32 km walk takes a minimum of three days to complete.

Whakatane River area routes

Several challenging routes are possible in the Whakatane River area. These should only be attempted by trampers with a high level of backcountry experience and skills including navigation and survival skills.

Whakatane River tramping tracks

Tracks from the Whakatane River range from 3-5 days and can be quite challenging. There are many areas of private Maori land in this area. Access is permitted by no camping or hunting is allowed.

Whirinaki Waterfalls Track

On the Whirinaki Waterfall Track you'll follow the Whirinaki River as it flows through podocarp forest.

Waiatiu Falls Track

A 1 hour 30 minutes return walk, the Waiatiu Falls Track in Whirinaki Forest Park leads through podocarp forest before reaching the picturesque falls.

Sanctuary Track

Whirinaki Forest Park's Sanctuary Track is an easy loop track that leads through remnant podocarp forest.

Arohaki Lagoon Track

Take the Arohaki Lagoon Track in Whirinaki Forest Park as it winds through tawa/podocarp forest. The lagoon is surrounded by kahikatea and is home to frogs and other wildlife.

H Tree Track

The H Tree Track in Whirinaki Forest Park is a 45-minute loop track that meanders through podocarp forest. The forest is home to a number of native birds, including kaka.

Lake Kaitawa Fairy Springs track

This one hour walk will lead you around Lake Kaitawa, a small lake to the south of Lake Waikaremoana. Along the way take the track to Green Lake and Fairy Springs.

Onepoto Caves Track

The 2 hour return walk to Onepoto Caves branches off to various caves in the area. The track then descends into a small valley where you'll find the largest number of caves on the walk.

Ngamoko Track

A hike for 2 hr 30 min along the Ngamoko Track as it steadily climbs to the Ngamoko Range summit. You will be rewarded for your hard work by the views at the summit.

Lake Waikaremoana area short walks

Find out about a range of short walks near the Aniwaniwa Vistor Centre and motorcamp at Lake Waikaremoana. The area's natural features include beautiful waterfalls and one of the country's biggest rata trees.

Ruapani Circuit Track

It will take you six hours of moderate to hard walking to complete the Ruapani Circuit. The track is accessed from the Waikareiti Track and passes through beautiful forest and seven wetlands.

Mount Hikurangi - Te Ara ki Hikurangi

Follow the Mt Hikurangi Track from Pakihiroa to the summit of Hikurangi. It's a 7 hour journey and be sure to prepare for all types of weather.

Te Reinga Falls Scenic Reserve

Te Reinga Falls Scenic Reserve is 35 km inland from Wairoa. At the reserve you'll find a short track to a lookout where you can view the spectacular falls of the Wairoa River.

Mangaone Caves Track

Mangaone Caves Scenic Reserve is 40 km from Wairoa. The track to the limestone caves is only 20 minutes each way and follows a poled route over farmland.

Mahia Peninsula Scenic Reserve track

This Mahia Peninsula Scenic Reserve is south of Mahia Beach up unsealed Kinikini Rd. A 3.5-km loop track takes you through a semi-coastal forest.

Marawaiwai Track

Marawaiwai Track, built by Opotiki College students, runs alongside a meandering stream through kahikitea forest. It is very easy, takes 20-30 minutes, and is suitable for all ages.

Whinray Scenic Reserve Track

Be sure to take the 5km track that traverses the Whinray Scenic Reserve. As you walk through this native forest you'll come to a series of waterfalls on the Motu River.

Te Kuri Farm Walkway

Te Kuri Farm Walkway is a 5.6 km walk on private land. Closed during lambing season, the walkway is made possible through the generous permission of the landowners.

Otoko Walkway

The Otoko Walkway is 50 km north-west of Gisborne. The track traverses 5 km of the old Gisborne/Moutohora railway line and takes 2.5 hours one way.

Okitu Scenic Reserve Track

Located near Wainui Beach, the Okitu Scenic Reserve features a loop track through the reserve. The track only takes 20-30 minutes to complete and is suitable for all age groups and levels of fitness.

Gray's Bush Scenic Reserve tracks

Just 9.5 km from Gisborne, Gray's Bush Scenic area has a number intersecting tracks in the southern part of the reserve. A full circuit of the tracks takes 40-60 minutes at a leisurely pace.

Cooks Cove Walkway

Prepare to spend about 2.5 hours on the 5.8-km Cooks Cove Walkway. The walk is suitable for all levels of fitness. The walkway is closed for the lambing season each year.

Anaura Bay Walkway

Enjoy a walk on the 3.5 km Anaura Bay Walkway as it winds through coastal forest, grassed hillside and production pine forest.

Whirinaki Track

The Whirinaki Track in Whirinaki Forest Park follows an easy to medium grade and takes 2 to 5 days to walk. Natural features along the track include caves and waterfalls.

Tauranga Bridge

The historic Tauranga Bridge, spanning the Waioeka River, is the only surviving harp suspension bridge left in New Zealand.

Activities in Raukumara Forest Park

There are opportunities for tramping, rafting and mountain biking in Raukumara Forest Park.

Raukumara Forest Park

The Raukumara Forest Park is one of the least developed or visited tracts of bush in the North Island. Recreation opportunities include climbing Mount Hikurangi, rafting the Motu River and the mountain biking Otipi Road.

Activities on the Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk

Fishing, boating and hunting are activities you can enjoy in the Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk area.

Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk

A moderate tramp, the Waikaremoana Great Walk is located in Te Urewera National Park. The tramp climbs up the Panekire Ridge before winding round parts of Lake Waikaremoana.

Marawaiwai Scenic Reserve

You can walk the easy Marawaiwai Track in the Marawaiwai Scenic Reserve where the forest and the small raupo wetland support many common bush birds.

Activities in Te Tapuwae o Rongokako Marine Reserve

Snorkelling, diving, boating and walking are all great ways to explore different aspects of Te Tapuwae o Rongokako Marine Reserve.

Te Tapuwae o Rongokako Marine Reserve

Te Tapuwae o Rongokako Marine Reserve lies about 16 kilometres north of Gisborne. The reserve contains eight marine habitat types including inshore reef, rocky intertidal platforms, sediment flats and more.

Whinray Scenic Reserve

Whinray Scenic Reserve is a 429 hectare reserve featuring native forest and a spectacular set of waterfalls on the wild and scenic Motu River.

Okitu Scenic Reserve

Okitu Scenic Reserve, just minutes from central Gisborne, has been developed specifically as a place to teach school students about biodiversity and conservation.

Morere Springs Scenic Reserve

The natural mineral hot pools at Morere Springs Scenic Reserve are a popular attraction. The reserve also features one of the last remaining tracts of coastal native forest on the East Coast.

Gray's Bush Scenic Reserve

Less than 10 km from Gisborne, Gray's Bush features a small but important remnant of the kahikatea (podocarp) forest which once covered much of the Gisborne Plains. There are a number of walking tracks at the reserve.

Anaura Bay Scenic Reserve

Anaura Bay Scenic Reserve covers 225 hectares of steep bush and regenerating native vegetation. Anaura Bay Walkway begins and ends in the reserve.

Mount Hikurangi - Te Ara ki Hikurangi

Recognised as the first point on the mainland to greet the morning sun, Mt Hikurangi is located on the east coast of the North Island.

Lake Waikaremoana

Lake Waikaremoana is a marvellous destination for walkers. Besides the famous Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk there are a multitude of short and day walks.

Aniwaniwa Museum

Come see some of Te Urewera's special taonga (treasures) in the Aniwaniwa Museum.

Activities in Whirinaki Forest Park

Opportunities for tramping range from overnight trips to five or more days. Hunters are welcomed because of the service they provide in controlling wild animal numbers.

Whirinaki Forest Park

There is something for everyone in the Whirinaki Forest Park, from mountain biking to hunting to exciting adventure races, all with a back drop of untouched forest beauty and amazing native birdsong.

Moutohora (Whale Island) Wildlife Management Reserve

Moutohora or Whale Island is a refuge for endangered birds and plants.

Activities in Te Urewera National Park

You can walk Lake Waikaremoana Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks or shorter walks including one up to the idyllic Lake Waikareiti. You can also boat, fish and hunt in the area.

Te Urewera National Park

Remote, rugged, immense, Te Urewera is famous for its lakes and forested beauty as well as its stormy history.

Central North Island

Taupo Trout Fishery

Plan your Taupo fishing trip here. Find out how to get a licence, the best spots to fish, tips and advice, and more.

Rangitaiki Conservation Area

Rangitaiki Conservation Area is the only remaining representative of frostflat vegetation which once covered the Kaingaroa Plateau.

Ohakune Old Coach Road

Ohakune Old Coach Road is a unique walk and cycleway. Take a trip back into New Zealand's rail heritage while you walk or cycle across gentle coach trails and newly formed tracks.

Activities on the Ohakune Old Coach Road

Come enjoy a fantastic new heritage walkway and cycleway, and all only minutes away from Ohakune and the skifields of Mt Ruapehu. A great activity for the summer, or those winter days when the ski fields are closed.

Ohakune Old Coach Road

The Hapuawhenua Viaduct was one of the final components in completing the North Island main trunk rail, and is now linked into the Old Coach Road through a new section of track.

Turangi/Taupo hunting

The Turangi/Taupo area offers a wide range of hunting opportunities. The sika herd in the Kaimanawa Forest Park is internationally renowned and regarded by hunters as a valuable recreational resource.

Paengaroa Scenic Reserve Walk

Take a short stroll to a picnic spot in this reserve renowned for its unique and rare and endangered flora.

Fishing access tracks

Around Lake Taupo there are a variety of access tracks to the tributary rivers. Some tracks are through DOC administered reserves and others across private land.

Lake Taupo area

Taupo township lies at the northern end of Lake Taupo, New Zealands largest lake at 622 square km. Taupo, and Turangi at the southern end of the lake are the centres for many of the walks and activities around the central North Island.

Kaimanawa Forest Park tramping tracks

Kaimanawa Forest Park (77,348 hectares) lies south-east of Taupo and extends from Tongariro National Park in the west to the Kaweka Range in the east.

Walks further out of Taupo township

Relatively close to Taupo township there are a number of pleasant, reasonably easy walks that offer magnificent views of Lake Taupo and the surrounding mountains of Kaimanawa Forest Park and Tongariro National Park.

Walks close to Taupo township

There are many short to medium length walks very close to Taupo township.

Waitonga Falls Track

The Waitonga Falls is a 1 hour 30 minutes walk on a well-formed track through mountain beech and kaikawaka forest. The 39 m falls are Tongariro National Park's highest falls.

Ohakune area tramping tracks

Lake Surprise and Old Blyth tramping tracks are two 5-hour return tramps you can enjoy in the Ohakune area.

Ohakune area short walks

Mangawhero Falls, Lake Rotokura, wheelchair accessible Mangawhero Forest Track and the Rimu Track are some short walks you can enjoy around the Ohakune area.

Ketetahi Hut Track

High on the slopes of Mt Tongariro, Ketetahi Hut is part of the Northern Circuit Great Walk. The Ketetahi Track is also a section of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

Turangi area

The Turangi area covers a variety of environments ranging from lake and river walks to tracks of thermal and historic interest.

Lake Rotopounamu loop track

Rotopounamu/Greenstone Lake nestles on the side of Mt Pihanga. This beautiful lake is a special favourite of tree lovers, birdwatchers, walkers and swimmers.

Mt Ruapehu Crater climb

The climb up to Mt Ruapehu Crater is not a marked route. People wishing to make the climb to the crater should be experienced trampers and well equipped.

Whakapapaiti Valley Track

Winding through stunted beech forest, the 11 km Whakapapaiti Valley Track makes its way to the Whakapapaiti Hut. From here you can continue back to Whakapapa Village.

Turangi walking tracks

Enjoy the walking tracks within 15-20 minutes driving time of Turangi.

Kaimanawa Forest Park walking tracks

On the western side of Kaimanawa Forest Park there are a number of walking tracks. Some have mountain bike access as well.

Whakapapa area walking tracks

Enjoy these walking tracks located within a 30 minutes drive from Whakapapa Village.

Whakapapa Village walking tracks

Slightly more demanding than short walks these walking tracks are either accessible from Whakapapa Village on foot or require a short drive to the start of the track.

Whakapapa Village short walks

These short walks are either accessible on foot from Whakapapa Village or require a short drive to the start of the track.

Tokaanu thermal walk

Just a 20 minute walk offers visitors the chance to see steaming hot mineral pools and spluttering mud pools. Thermal areas are changeable by nature so please keep to the track.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing track passes over varied and spectacular volcanic terrain and takes around 6 - 8 hours to complete.

Round the Mountain Track

It will take you 4 to 5 days to complete the Round the Mountain (Mt Ruapehu) Track at Tongariro National Park.

Tongariro Northern Circuit

Winding its way over Mt Tongariro and around Mt Ngauruhoe is the Tongariro Northern Circuit, one of the Great Walks of New Zealand.

Tongariro Forest Conservation Area

Bring your mountain bike or 4-wheel drive to Tongariro Forest in Taupo, or come to simply observe the multitude of threatened species residing in the 'forest of the future'.

Activities in Kaimanawa Forest Park

Popular recreational activities in Kaimanawa Forest Park include hunting, tramping, fishing, rafting and picnicking. Mountain biking is permitted only on formed roads and on the Tree Trunk Gorge Track.

Kaimanawa Forest Park

You can enjoy many activities in Kaimanawa Forest Park in the Turangi/Taupo area. Permits are required for hunting and fishing. Access over private land is by permission only.

Activities in Tongariro National Park

Find out about activities you can do in Tongariro National Park. One of the best one day treks in the country is the traverse of Mount Tongariro (known as the Tongariro Alpine Crossing). It can be done as part of the longer Northern Circuit, one of New Zealand's Great Walks.

Tongariro National Park

Tongariro is New Zealand's oldest national park and a dual World Heritage area. This status recognises the park's important Maori cultural and spiritual associations as well as its outstanding volcanic features.

Taranaki

Taranaki Forests hunting

The Taranaki region offers 21 hunting blocks on public conservation land.

Where to hunt

View the descriptions of hunting blocks in the Taranaki area.

Activities in Tapuae Marine Reserve

Walking, exploring, kayaking, snorkelling, diving, general boating and sightseeing are all popular activities in the reserve.

Tapuae Marine Reserve

The 1404ha Tapuae Marine Reserve is on the rugged Taranaki coast close to New Plymouth and adjoins the Sugar Loaf Island Marine Protected Area. It hosts a diverse and flourishing range of sea life.

Around the Mountain Circuit

The Around the Mountain Circuit (AMC) offers you spectacular bush and alpine scenery. The challenging multi day route requires good fitness and tramping experience. The route is best tramped from October - April and is traditionally walked anticlockwise.

Kaitake Range walking tracks

The Kaitake Range is remarkably different from the rest of the park with its variety of warmth-loving semi-coastal forest.

Pouakai Range tramping tracks

Explore the rugged range of rolling hills covered in sub alpine bush.

West Egmont tramping tracks

The western slopes of the mountain are known for their very high rainfall, resulting in numerous wet and boggy areas.

East Egmont tramping tracks

Well-benched tracks lead through montane forest, providing a great introduction to the mountain environment.

East Egmont walking tracks

A great introduction to the mountain environment with superb views of the surrounding countryside.

East Egmont short walks

A great introduction to the goblin forest of the mountain.

Dawson Falls tramping tracks

These tramps offer great views both up the mountain and down to the Taranaki Ring Plain and the coastline.

Dawson Falls easy tramping tracks

Very scenic tramps that provide great views across to the Beehives and back to Konini Lodge.

Dawson Falls walking tracks

Meandering tracks through subalpine forest which lead to a series of pools and cascades scoured out of the lava.

Dawson Falls short walks

A short walk to one of the world's oldest continuously operating generators.

North Egmont tramping tracks

Scenic tramps that offer views of Mount Taranaki and down across the Taranaki Ring Plain to the coast.

Mount Messenger to Whitecliffs Walkway track

This track climbs to the summit of Mt Messenger and then descends to the coast.

Mount Messenger to Kiwi Road track

This route travels over several ridges and then descends and levels out to open farmland.

Mount Damper Falls walk

This short walk leads to Mount Damper Falls, the highest in the North Island.

Mt. Damper to Te Rerepahupahu Falls track

This track to Te Rerepahupahu Falls is recommended for fit and experienced trampers only.

Tatu to Te Rerepahupahu Falls track

A ridge line track leading to Te Rerepahupahu Falls.

Waitaanga South Road to Te Rerepahupahu Falls Track

Follow an historic logging tramline to Te Rerepahupahu Falls.

Rerekapa Track

This track was made around 1910 by road workers using wheelbarrows, picks and shovels.

York Road Loop Track

Explore the remnants of the old Egmont Branch railway quarry complex while walking through native forest.

Everett Park Scenic Reserve walk

Large grassed areas on the banks of the Manganui River, makes this a popular picnic and swimming area.

Kaitake Range short walks

An attractive picnic area surrounded by native forest and gigantic Californian Redwood trees.

Ratapihipihi Scenic Reserve walk

This reserve features an outstanding example of a subtropical rain forest with kohekohe, tawa, puketea and nikau palms.

East Egmont barrier-free walks

Although these walks are maintained to wheel chair standard, they're great for families with a baby on board as well.

North Egmont walking tracks

Explore the North Egmont area of Egmont National Park which features lush native forest and on a clear day some spectacular scenery.

North Egmont short walks

These short walks are in the Egmont National Park, at North Egmont Roadend.

Mount Taranaki Summit Track

The Mount Taranaki Summit should only be attempted in good weather by experienced trampers with proper equipment.

Pouakai Circuit

The 25 km Pouakai Circuit is a tramp through forest, sub-alpine and mountainous terrain with some river crossings.

Moki Track

The track was developed with wheelbarrows, picks and shovels as early as 1910. Both ends of the track pass through some 3 km of farmland before entering the forest, which contains good stands of tawa, kamahi and rimu.

Whitecliffs Walkway

This walkway uses the Kapuni to Auckland gas pipeline route for a considerable distance. The laying of the pipeline opened up walking access to the dramatic forest and coastal country of the region.

Stony River (Hangatahua) Walkway

Walk along the banks of the Stony River through a small grove of kohekohe, matai and rata forest to the Okato Domain.

Meeting of the Waters Scenic Reserve short walks

Enjoy a picnic and take one of the short walks in this family friendly reserve.

Te Koru Pā Historic Reserve

At Te Koru Pā you can wander along the defensive ditches, through the extensive terracing, past many rua and on up to house sites.

North Egmont Roadend

This area of Egmont National Park offers stunning views of the mountain and surrounding countryside. The visitor centre has track and walk information and displays on the history of the area.

Dawson Falls Roadend

Explore the Dawson Falls area of Egmont National Park which features one of New Zealand's oldest operational power generators.

Ngā Motu/Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Protected Area

The Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Protected Area comprises 749 hectares of seabed, foreshore and water around the Ngā Motu/Sugar Loaf Islands. It offers some great recreational opportunities.

Parininihi Marine Reserve

The 1800ha Parininihi Marine Reserve is a "classic" section of the wild Taranaki coastline. Pariokariwa Reef, in the reserve area, has been rated as one of the top sponge spots in the world.

Activities in Parininihi Marine Reserve

Walking, exploring, kayaking, snorkelling, diving, general boating and sightseeing are all popular activities in the reserve.

Activities in Egmont National Park

There are tracks for those wanting easy short walks as well as for more experienced walkers and climbers.

Egmont National Park

Egmont National Park can be found on the western coast of New Zealand's North Island. Here the volcano Taranaki (or Mt Egmont as it is also known) rules supreme.

Manawatu/Whanganui

Other activities on the Whanganui Journey

Find out about visiting Tieke kainga and other activities you can do on the Whanganui Journey.

Whanganui Forests hunting

In the Whanganui area the large number of conservation areas and scenic reserves, as well as Whanganui National Park, provide hunters with numerous hunting opportunities.

Manawatu/Rangitikei hunting

This guide to hunting on public conservation land in the Manawatu/Rangitikei region provides location, access and other information for hunting areas including the Western Ruahine Forest Park.

Te Maire

Te Maire is part of Whanganui National Park and is a fine example of the Podocarp forest.

Kawhatau Base to Crow Hut Loop Track

A very steep up and down tramp in Ruahine Forest Park, climbing first to the Mokai Patea Range, then dropping to the Kawhatau River and then back up to the Hikurangi Range and out to Kawhatau Base. Involves camping out.

Table Flat - Kashmir Roadend West-East crossing

A west east traverse of the Ruahine Forest Park, following the Oroua River valley and over the main Ruahine Range to the Kashmir Roadend.

Purity to Kawhatau Base Track

Walk along the tussock tops of the Hikurangi Range between these two huts in Ruahine Forest Park.

Purity - Kelly Knight Hut Loop Track

A loop tramp that takes in the Pourangaki River valley and the open tops of the Hikurangi Range in the Ruahine Forest Park.

Renfrew Roadend to Table Flat Roadend

Climb up and over the tussock tops of the Whanahuia Range in Ruahine Forest Park then drop down to follow the Oroua River valley.

Knights Track to Pohangina Valley East Road Track

There is a bit of everything on this tramp in the Ruahine Forest Park. Open tops, rivers and bush travel.

Mid Pohangina Hut Track

Cross farmland and then sidle high above the picturesque Pohangina River in the Ruahine Forest Park before crossing a swingbridge and heading to the hut. Stay a night and return the same way.

Kelly Knight Hut Track

The track to Kelly Knight Hut crosses farmland to the Ruahine Forest Park boundary, then sidles above the Pourangaki River to reach the hut via a swingbridge. Stay a night and return the same way.

McKinnon Hut Track

Perched on the northern end of the Hikurangi Range in Ruahine Forest Park, McKinnon Hut is accessed via a long ridge climbing up from the Kawhatau Valley. Stay a night and return the same way.

Iron Gate Hut Track

Iron Gate Hut is a good days hike along a sidle track up the Oroua River valley. Longer tramps are possible from this hut. Stay a night and return the same way.

Rangiwahia Hut - Deadmans Track

An easy to moderate overnight tramp to Rangiwahia Hut on the Whanahuia Range in Ruahine Forest Park. Return via the open tops and Deadman's Track.

Knights-Shorts Loop Track

Take a strenuous day hike and enjoy the spectacular scenery from the tops of the Ngamoko Range in the Ruahine Forest Park.

No.1 Line Tracks

Climb these tracks in the Ruahine Forest Park to enjoy the views of the Pohangina Valley from the end of No.1 Line.

Purity Hut Track

A steep climb to this hut nestled above the bushline on the Hikurangi Range in the Ruahine Forest Park.

Rangiwahia Hut Track

A popular, easy overnight tramp to the tussock tops of the Whanahuia Range in the Ruahine Forest Park.

Manawatu Gorge Loop Track

An easy loop walk for families through bush at the Woodville end of the Manawatu Gorge Track.

Manawatu Gorge Scenic Reserve

The Manawatu Gorge Scenic Reserve has a distinctive landscape with steep greywacke ranges covered in native vegetation.

Alice Nash Memorial Heritage Lodge Track

Take an easy hike to Alice Nash Memorial Heritage Lodge in the scenic Oroua River valley of the Ruahine Forest Park.

Deerford Track to Makiekie Creek

Walk Deerford Track on the edge of the Ruahine Forest Park to picturesque Makiekie Creek for a picnic and a paddle.

Maharahara Peak Track

Take a steep climb through forest to the rocky open knolls of Maharahara high point in the Ruahine Forest Park.

Zekes Hut Track

An ideal day hike or easy overnight tramp to a newly replaced hut nestled within Hihitahi Forest Sanctuary north of Taihape.

Rangitikei River mouth coastal reserves

The two reserves bordering each side of the Rangitikei River mouth, Tawhirihoe to the south and Moana Roa to the north contain some of the best examples of parabolic dune systems left in the country.

Manawatu Estuary

The diversity and number of wading and shore birds that visit the Manawatu Estuary make it one of the best bird watching spots in the country.

Kahikatea Walk

This easy walk is a great introduction to broadleaved forest. The well defined and easy to follow track is suitable for children of all ages. As the name of the walk suggests, mature kahikatea are the stars in this reserve.

Mangaweka Scenic Reserve Track

Escape from the fast lane and step back to a land of perching lilies, tree fern and majestic kahikatea.

Te Maire Loop Track

Within Whanganui National Park is this fine example of the podocarp forest which once covered much of the central North Island.

Matemateaonga Track

The Matemateaonga Track along with the Mangapurua Track is one of the two major tramping opportunities available in Whanganui National Park. Using an old Maori trail and settlers' dray road, you are able to penetrate deep into the wilderness of the park.

Mangapurua/Kaiwhakauka Track

This track leads from Whakahoro up the Kaiwhakauka Valley past the Mangapurua Trig and then descends through the Mangapurua Valley to meet the Whanganui River at the Mangapurua Landing, 30km upstream from Pipiriki.

Bridge to Nowhere Walk

The 3 km Bridge to Nowhere Walk takes about one and a half hours return. It follows the Mangapurua Stream to the bridge from the Mangapurua Landing on the Whanganui River.

Bruce Park Loop Track

An easy walk through a podocarp and broadleaf forest remnant with impressive specimens of rimu, totara and kahikatea.

Manawatu Gorge Track

The Manawatu Gorge Track provide the opportunity to enjoy native bush only a short distance from Palmerston North.

Atene Skyline Track

The Atene Skyline Track has spectacular views and a campsite for trampers wanting to stay the night.

Atene Viewpoint Walk

An enjoyable outing for the entire family exists just 40 minutes drive from Wanganui at Atene on the historic Whanganui River road.

Beehive Creek Walkway

Beehive Creek Walkway follows the creek through a mixture of native bush and exotics before crossing farmland to Pohangina Road. The 2-3 hour walk is closed during lambing season.

Whanganui Journey

Paddle the Whanganui on a 145-km journey from Taumarunui to Pipiriki. A shorter canoe trip from Whakahoro to Pipiriki is also possible. Although a river journey, the Whanganui is part of the Great Walks network.

Mangahao Makahika Track

The Mangahao Makahika Track connects Burtton's Track, which lies between Palmerston North and Shannon, with the Arapaepae Lookout Trail near Levin.

Lake Waiwiri / Papaitonga Scenic Reserve

Lake Waiwiri (also known as Papaitonga) is a dune lake in Horowhenua. The scenic reserve is an important sanctuary for recovering wetlands birds.

Mangapurua/Kaiwhakauka valleys

These valleys offer the 3 km Bridge to Nowhere walk and the Mangapurua/Kaiwhakauka tracks.

Gordon Park Scenic Reserve

This small reserve is a precious sample of a lowland forest type which was once common in the area.The reserve features a flat and well formed track and is home to an interesting array of birds.

Activities in Western Ruahine Forest Park

You can enjoy walking, hunting, snow skiing, fishing, rafting and canoeing in the Western Ruahine Forest Park.

Western Ruahine Forest Park

The Ruahine Forest Park consists of beautiful bush-covered ranges. Recreational opportunities include tramping, hunting, cross country skiing, snowboarding, rafting, kayaking, fishing, swimming and camping.

Activities at Pukepuke Lagoon

Bird watching and gamebird hunting are activities available in the Pukepuke Lagoon Conservation Area. Make sure you apply for the necessary permits.

Pukepuke Lagoon Conservation Area

Pukepuke Lagoon, a dune lake and wetland near Tangimoana in the Manawatu, is an important wetland habitat for birds, freshwater fish and native plants.

Paengaroa Scenic Reserve

Visit the botanical treasure trove of Paengaroa Scenic Reserve, home to many rare species and more divaricating plants than in any similarly-sized area in New Zealand.

Activities in Whanganui National Park

Tramping and river trips are popular activities in the Whanganui National Park. You can travel the Whanganui Journey, one of New Zealand's Great Walks that is mainly a river journey.

Whanganui National Park

Whanganui National Park is located in the south-west of New Zealand's North Island.

Hawke's Bay

White Pine Bush Scenic Reserve

White Pine Bush is a great place for people of all ages and abilities to visit and experience a piece of New Zealand's remaining coastal forest.

Ruahine Corner to Kawhatau Base Track

An excellent but strenuous trip in the remote north western Ruahine Forest Park renowned for its scenery and ecological values. Fly in by helicopter and walk out.

Otatara Pa Historic Reserve

Otatara Pa Historic Reserve encompasses one of the most outstanding defensive and settlement complexes in New Zealand.

Ahuriri Estuary Walking Track

This estuary supports an interdependent community of wading birds, fish, mud dwellers and aquatic plant life.

Puketitiri Reserves walks

Enjoy some short and pleasant walks in the Puketitiri Reserves.

Boundary Stream Walks

From the Boundary Stream Mainland Island Reserve you can enjoy a number of walks through this impressive part of the Hawke's Bay.

Wakarara Road End routes

There are a variety of tramping routes from Wakarara road end in the Eastern Ruahine Forest Park, including Gold Creek and Barlow Hut.

Wakarara Road End tramping tracks

Wakarara Road End tramping tracks include tracks to Poutaki Hut, Parks Peak Hut and Sparrowhawk Bivouac and the Colenso Spur to the Main Range track.

Yeoman's Track

This easy 3.5 hours - 4.5 hours forest walk follows an old route where logs were once hauled to Yeoman's Mill. It is open to mountain bikes.

Stanfield Hut route

This is an unmarked riverbed route to Stanfield Hut from Tamaki Road end in Eastern Ruahine Forest Park. Plan on a 1.5-2 hour journey.

Rokaiwhenua Stream Walk

Rokaiwhenua Stream Walk is a pleasant and easy 1-hour forest walk you get to from Tamaki Road end in Eastern Ruahine Forest.

A Frame Hut & Takapari Road Track

You can reach A Frame Hut from Tamaki Road end by following the track through podocarp then leatherwood forest to Takapari Road. From there you'll follow a bulldozed road for 100 m to the hut.

North Block Road tramping tracks

North Block Road is the most popular starting point for visitors to Eastern Ruahine Forest Park. From there tramping tracks take you to Smith's Stream Hut and Waipawa Forks Hut.

North Block Road walks

North Block Road walking tracks include the walk to Triple X Hut and the Swamp Track.

Sunrise Track

The track to Sunrise Hut is one of the most popular walks in Eastern Ruahine Forest Park and is well suited to family and school groups.

Mangleton Road to Park's Peak Ridge

It's a 2-3 hour walk from Mangleton Road to Park's Peak Ridge. The track links to Ruahine Range and Golden Crown Ridge to the north and Park's Peak and Upper Makaroro huts to the south.

Masters Shelter to Golden Crown Ridge

The Golden Crown Ridge Track begins behind Master Shelter. The 2-3 hour walk climbs around a series of rocky knolls before continuing steeply upwards through beech forest to the top of the range.

Kumeti Road End tramping tracks

From Kumeti Road End in Eastern Ruahine Forest Park you can take tramping tracks to Opawe Rd and Kiritaki Hut.

Kashmir Road tramping tracks

Kashmir Road climbs far and high into Ruahine Forest Park and provides quick access to the high country. Daphne Hut, Awatere Hut and Longview Hut are all accessible by track from the road.

Coppermine Road End tramping tracks

You can get to Wharite Peak Track and Coppermine Track from Coppermine Road End in Eastern Ruahine Forest Park.

No Man's Road area tramping tracks

Tracks starting at No Man's Road give access to a number of backcountry huts in the Eastern Ruahine Forest Park.

Makahu Road tramping tracks

The narrow Makahu Road provides access to the Makino and Middle Hill huts.

Makahu Road easy tramping tracks

The narrow Makahu Road provides access to Mangatutu Hot Springs, along with Te Puia Lodge.

Lotkow Road to Little's Clearing

Lotkow Road branches off Whittle Road at the entry point to the Kaweka Forest Park.

Lawrence Road tramping tracks

From Lawrence Road you can take a 2-3 hour walk through Blowhard Bush or to Lotkow Shelter. From the shelter follow the Lotkow Track for another 2-3 hours to Lookout and Donald River.

Kuripapango tramping tracks

There are a variety of options for day or overnight trips from Kuripapango/Castle Rocks Road. Some are round trips and some link with other road ends or access points to Kaweka Forest Park.

Kaweka Road walks

From Kaweka Road you can access Makahu Saddle via Whittle Road. The saddle is a popular starting point for walks into the mountain tops.

Kaweka Road tramping tracks

From Kaweka Road you can access Makahu Saddle via Whittle Road. The saddle is a popular starting point for tramping excursions into the backcountry.

Comet Road end to Shutes Hut

From Comet Road End in Kaweka Forest Park you can take a 2-3 hour walk to historic Shutes Hut in Ruahine Forest Park, which was built in 1920 and used by first rabbiters and then by musterers.

Cameron Carpark tramping tracks

From the Cameron Carpark you can walk to Kuripapaango Trig or Cameron Hut. Tramps to Kiwi Saddle, Kaweka Range, Kiwi Mouth Hut and Back Ridge are also available.

Hawke's Bay hunting

The Hawke's Bay region offers hunting on public conservation land.

Activities at Puketitiri Reserve

There are a variety of pleasant walks in the Puketitiri Reserves that pass through forests and clearings, with opportunites for bird watching and photography.

Puketitiri Reserves

Puketitiri Reserves offer opportunities for walks through regenerating forest and clearings. They exist largely through the efforts of a group of local dedicated conservationists.

Activities in Kaweka Forest Park

You can walk tracks, raft, hunt, fish and visit Mangatutu Hot Springs in the Kaweka Forest Park.

Activities in Eastern Ruahine Forest Park

There are opportunities for walking, four-wheel driving, fishing and mountain biking in Eastern Ruahine Forest park.

Eastern Ruahine Forest Park

Ruahine Forest Park and its neighbouring parks form an almost continuous chain of protected lands along the central North Island ranges. Recreation opportunities include hunting, mountain biking and tracks for both experienced trampers and day walkers.

Kaweka Forest Park

Kaweka Forest Park has alpine shrublands, tussock valleys and beech forests. It offers rafting, canoeing, hunting and fishing, hot springs and tramping for both experienced trampers and day walkers.

Activities in Te Angiangi Marine Reserve

At Te Angiangi Marine Reserve you can swim, snorkel, dive and boat, or explore the reserve's beach.

Te Angiangi Marine Reserve

Te Angiangi Marine Reserve protects a piece of the central Hawke's Bay coast.

Activities at Boundary Stream Mainland Island

Whether you're interested in taking the family on the gentle Tumanako Loop Track or want to hike the Kamahi Loop Track to Shine Falls, there are a number of tracks at Boundary Stream Mainland Island.

Boundary Stream Mainland Island

Boundary Stream Mainland Island is home to a number of threatened species including North Island brown kiwi, kākā and kōkako, New Zealand falcon and kererū.

Activities at Cape Kidnappers

Take an enjoyable scenic walk or trip along the remote coastline and get a close up view of nesting gannets. The towering cliffs expose the many rock types and fault lines which underlie Hawke's Bay.

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Reserve

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Reserve is home to two gannet colonies managed by DOC. There are spectacular geological cliff formations on the coast to Cape Kidnappers.

Wairarapa

Wairarapa hunting

The Wairarapa region offers hunting on public conservation land.

Te Arapiki o Tawhaki

Experience stunning views and native bush on Te Arapiki o Tawhaki at Pukaha Mount Bruce.

Rimutaka Rail Trail

Built in 1878, this rail route between the Hutt Valley and Featherston is now a gently graded 18 km walk, run or mountain bike ride, with opportunities for camping, swimming and fishing.

Papatahi Crossing

The Papatahi Crossing climbs from the Orongorongo River and up over Papatahi to the Wairarapa side of the Rimutaka Forest Park.

Kahikatea Walk

This 30 minute loop walks takes you through a flooded forest remnant in the Wairarapa.

Ruamahanga River Walk

This easy 20 minute walk follows the boardwalk through the Carter Scenic Reserve, a recovering wetland in the Wairarapa

Mt Holdsworth - Jumbo Circuit

The classic Mt Holdsworth - Jumbo Circuit is a two to three day tramp involving a climb through beech-podocarp forest to some of the best alpine tops travel in the Tararua Forest Park.

Holdsworth - Kaitoke Tramp

The classic Holdsworth - Kaitoke Tramp follows the Waiohine and Tauherenikau Rivers for 36 km between Holdsworth and Kaitoke.

Honeycomb Rock Walkway

Honeycomb Rock is a spectacular outcrop on the Wairarapa coast, so named because of the cell-like weathering pattern which gives the rock a honeycomb appearance.

Activities at Waiohine Gorge

Abseiling and river activities like swimming, rafting and kayaking make use of the gorge environment. It's also a popular starting point for tramping, hunting and fishing trips into the Tararuas.

Waiohine Gorge

Waiohine Gorge is a popular camping and recreation area and entrance to southeastern Tararua Forest Park.

Activities in Holdsworth

Walkers, hunters and fishers can take a range of tracks through Tararua Forest Park from Holdsworth. Swimming at Atiwhakatu Stream is also popular.

Holdsworth

Holdsworth is the main entrance to the eastern side of Tararua Forest Park. Holdsworth offers camping, a lodge, picnic facilities, swimming in Atiwhakatu Stream and a range of walks.

Gentle Annie Track

One of the most popular day trips in the park is the climb to Mountain House Shelter along the easy grade of the Gentle Annie Track.

Kiriwhakapapa Loop

This pleasant loop walk is well-graded and benched and passes through forest that has regenerated well after logging in the 1930s.

Powell Hut - Mount Holdsworth

This tramp follows the Mount Holdsworth Track to Powell Hut. From the rocky outcrop below the hut you get a view of High Ridge and Totara Flats far below.

Donnelly Flat Loop Walk

The walking track to Donnelly Flat passes through some of the best mixed podocarp/broadleaf forest in the Tararua Range.

Waiohine Gorge walks

There are a number of short tracks that descend from Waiohine Gorge Road into the gorge, giving access for picnicking, swimming, fishing and watersports.

Smith Creek - Tauherenikau River

Smith Creek - Tauherenikau River is a daytrip in the southern Tararua Range and the exit/entry to the Kaitoke-Holdsworth Tramp.

Mitre Flats

The Barra track follows the Waingawa River to Mitre Flats and Mitre Flats Hut.

Tararua Forest Park

Tararua Forest Park features an abundance of tramping and hunting opportunities.

Pukaha Mount Bruce Wildlife Centre

You can see conservation in action at the Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre in the Northern Wairarapa. Tuatara, kokako, kiwi and takahe are all permanent residents here.

Wairarapa Moana Wetlands Park

Wairarapa Moana Wetlands Park has extensive wetlands where fishing and birdwatching are popular activities.

Deliverance Cove Track

The two possible routes on this Castlepoint walk offer spectacular views as you climb above the lagoon along the boundary track to the base of Castle Rock.

Lighthouse Walk

Look out for fossil shells in the rock as you follow the board-walk over the reef and past the lighthouse at Castlepoint Scenic Reserve.

Castlepoint Scenic Reserve

With its reef, lagoon, lighthouse and Castle Rock, Castlepoint is a spectacular stretch of Wairarapa coastline. An hour from Masterton, the reserve attracts many birds and marine mammals.

Activities at Carter Scenic Reserve

Short walks in the reserve can bring you in contact with some uncommon and interesting native flora.

Carter Scenic Reserve

Carter Scenic Reserve is one of the few remaining remnants of patchwork landscape once typical of the Wairarapa - grass, wetland, shrubland, and forest.

Pinnacles Track

Three 2-3 hour walks lead to the Putangirua Pinnacles in Aorangi Forest Park. There is also a 3-4 hour walk with excellent views of Palliser Bay and Lake Onoke.

Aorangi Forest Park

Enjoy the sights, tramping and hunting opportunities available in Aorangi Forest Park.

Activities in Tararua Forest Park

Recreational opportunities in the Tararua Forest Park include tramping, short walks, hunting, mountain biking, camping, picnicking, rafting, kayaking and swimming.

Activities in Aorangi Forest Park

Recreational hunting, tramping, walking, cycling, 4 wheel driving, and camping are activities you can enjoy in and around the Aorangi Forest Park.

Rimutaka Forest Park

Rimutaka Forest Park spans two areas. This link will take you to the information about the track, in the Wellington/Kapiti area.

Wellington/Kapiti

Makara

Makara offers access to Wellington's west coast escarpments, historic Fort Opau and the West Wind Recreation Area.

Pukeatua Track

Pukeatua Track connects Otaki Forks to Waikanae.

Kapiti hunting

The Kapiti area offers hunting on public conservation land.

Wellington hunting

The Wellington region offers hunting on public conservation land.

Activities at Whareroa Farm

Walking, horse riding, mountain biking and picnicking are activities you can enjoy at Whareroa Farm, which links the Akatarawa Forest to the east with Queen Elizabeth Park and the coast to the west.

Whareroa Farm

Walking, mountain biking, horse riding and picnicking are activities you can enjoy at Whareroa Farm, a recreation reserve near Paekakariki on the Kapiti coast.

Matiu/Somes Island Bullock track

The Bullock track leads through forest to the centre of Matiu/Somes Island. It has a long history of use, and was one of the original tracks on the Island.

Matiu/Somes Island main road

On arrival at the Matiu/Somes Island main wharf and toilets, and after undergoing the biosecurity checks and a short introduction to the island, most visitors will follow the the tar sealed road up to the Matiu/Somes Island Visitor Centre.

Activities in Taputeranga Marine Reserve

Diving, snorkelling, kayaking, swimming, surfing, study and photography are among activities that can be enjoyed in Wellington's Taputeranga Marine Reserve.

Taputeranga Marine Reserve

The 854ha Taputeranga Marine Reserve is located 6 kilometres from the city centre on Wellington's south coast, providing easy access to study, interact with and record marine life and habitats.

Matiu/Somes Island gun emplacements track

This track takes you to the top of Matiu/Somes Island in Wellington Harbour, where you can see gun emplacements built during World War II, and enjoy 360 degree views.

Clay Ridge Track

This tramping track links with other tracks in the Rimutaka Forest Park to take you up to Mt Mckerrow.

Middle Ridge Track

This walking track from the Catchpool carpark at the entrance to the Rimutaka Forest Park links up with two other popular tracks.

Papatahi Crossing

The Papatahi Crossing climbs from the Orongorongo River and up over Papatahi to the Wairarapa side of the Rimutaka Forest Park.

Cattle Ridge Track

This track begins at the top of the Butcher Track in Rimutaka Forest Park and heads north along Cattle Ridge to join the Orongorongo Track near Turere Stream.

Big Bend Track

The Big Bend Track follows the true right of the Orongorongo River in the Rimutaka Forest Park.

Whakanui Track

This four hour tramping track takes you from Wainuiomata through to the Orongorongo River in the Rimutaka Forest Park.

Mt Matthews

Mt Matthews is the tallest peak in the Rimutaka range and the nearest to Wellington. The climb to the summit will take you 949 m above sea level.

Makara Walkway

Makara Walkway is a 6 km loop, climbing to vantage points with spectacular views, and returning along the beach. Makara Beach is 16 km north of Wellington.

Colonial Knob

Climb to the summit of this 468 metre peak and on a clear day you can see from the Kaikoura Range in the south to Mt Taranaki in the north-west.

Mt McKerrow

At the top of Mt McKerrow in Rimutaka Forest Park trees block the views but on the way up you get panoramic peeks of Wainuiomata and the Hutt Valley.

Matiu/Somes Island Loop Track

A loop track around Matiu/Somes Island offers 360 degree views of Wellington harbour and the surrounding landscape.

Activities at Mana Island Scientific Reserve

Explore the islands's historic sites and visit the woolshed museum. Follow walking tracks to the historic lighthouse site, the "concrete gannets" and enjoy the dramatic views.

Activities on Kapiti Island

After an introductory talk on the flora, fauna, and human history of the island, visitors can explore the island's tracks, studying the many rare birds and the historic artefacts.

Activities in Kapiti Marine Reserve

Divers and snorkellers can get amongst the sea life and there are plenty of opportunities for bird watching and other wildlife pursuits for walkers, boaties and kayakers.

Kapiti Marine Reserve

The underwater scenery, exceptionally clear waters, and rich animal and plant life attract many visitors to Kapiti Marine Reserve.

Tararua Southern Crossing

The Southern Crossing is one of the four classic tramps of the Tararua Range.

Mangaone Walkway

Mangaone Walkway follows an old bush tramway in low hill country east of Waikanae. It was historically known as Reikorangi Track.

Field Hut and Table Top

The day trip to Table Top is the classic climb to the tops of the western Tararua Range.

Parata Walking Track

Well-formed, Parata Walking Track is suitable for people of most ages and fitness levels. It climbs to a lookout offering views of the coast and Reikorangi Valley.

Te Au Track

Te Au Track is suitable for well-equipped and experienced trampers.

Tararua Northern Crossing

The Northern Crossing links the Ohau and Waingawa catchments in Tararua Forest Park and is one of four classic tramps in the park.

Kohekohe Walk

Kohekohe Walk in Hemi Matenga Memorial Park Scenic Reserve is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. It links Tui Crescent to Kakariki Grove.

Otaki Forks short walks

There are a number of easy short walks around Otaki Forks.

Burtton's Track

Burtton's Track (Scotts Road to Mangahao Road) lies between Palmerston North and Shannon.

Kapakapanui Track

The open summit of Kapakapanui is one of the best viewpoints in the Tararua Range.

Otaki Gorge walks

There are a number of short tracks that descend from Otaki Gorge Road into the gorge, giving access for picnicking, swimming, fishing and watersports.

Kapiti Island Nature Reserve

Kapiti is one of the few accessible island nature reserves. There you can observe birds that are either very rare or absent from the mainland. Access is by permit only.

Pauatahanui Inlet

Pauatahanui Inlet is largest relatively unmodified estuarine area in the southern North Island. It has viewing hides, tracks, a visitor centre and a picnic area.

Hemi Matenga Memorial Park Scenic Reserve

Hemi Matenga Memorial Park Scenic Reserve is a historic native forest situated near Waikanae in the Wellington region.

Mana Island Scientific Reserve

Mana Island Scientific Reserve lies off the west coast of Wellington. A restored woolshed houses historic displays and walking tracks lead to spectacular views.

Colonial Knob Scenic Reserve

You can walk to the 19th century reservoirs at the Colonial Knob Scenic Reserve, Kapiti. Mt Taranaki and the Kaikoura Range can be seen from the summit.

Tararua Forest Park

Tararua Forest Park features an abundance of tramping and hunting opportunities.

Activities in Rimutaka Forest Park

A network of tracks in Rimutaka Forest Park provides good access to many areas suitable for walking and hunting.

Five Mile Loop Track

Five Mile Loop Track starts from the car park at the top of the Catchpool Valley. Cross the footbridge to the left of the car park. The track is well signposted.

Catchpool Loop Walk

This walk crosses a footbridge over the Catchpool Stream, from a signposted point 15 minutes along the Orongorongo Track.

Orongorongo Track

One of the most popular walks in New Zealand, this well developed track passes through different types of bush, leading to the Orongorongo Valley.

Butcher Track

Butcher Track begins about 10 minutes along the Orongorongo Track. A stiff climb brings magnificent views of Wellington Harbour.

Nature Trail

Catchpool Valley's Nature Trail is an alternative to the road from the Nga Taonga Trail.

Tawa Grove Walk

Tawa Grove in Catchpool Valley is a bush trail specially designed for disabled or elderly people. The walk begins from near the field centre.

Nga Taonga Nature Walk

Nga Taonga Nature Walk begins in the clearing beside the Graces Stream footbridge. Along the trail you'll find information signs describing the forest plant life in the Catchpool Valley.

Turnbull House

Turnbull House is one of Wellington's finest historic buildings. Book now for conferences and corporate group meetings.

Turakirae Head Scientific Reserve

At Turakirae Head you'll find the largest New Zealand fur seal colony in the Wellington region as well as the internationally-famous geological record revealed by five earthquake-raised beaches.

Activities in Catchpool Valley & Orongorongo Valley

The walks in the Catchpool Valley are suitable for all ages and fitness levels. There is also a specially marked dog exercise area just past the park entrance gate.

Rimutaka Forest Park

In the Rimutaka Forest Park you can enjoy some of Wellington's finest mountain biking, not to mention the native birdlife and walking tracks.

Catchpool Valley & Orongorongo Valley

Catchpool Valley is the most popular entrance to Rimutaka Forest Park. It includes Orongorongo Valley and its booked huts.

Activities at Matiu/Somes Island Scientific & Historic Reserve

Walks on Matiu/Somes offer excellent bird-watching opportunities and the chance to study other plants and animals enjoying the pest-free environment.

Pencarrow Lakes

Pencarrow Lakes are tucked in behind Pencarrow Head at the entrance to the Wellington Harbour. You can walk or mountain bike to the lakes.

Government Buildings Historic Reserve

The Government Buildings Historic Reserve is a historic landmark of Wellington. It is the largest wooden building in the southern hemisphere and you can view it in its fully restored state.

Matiu/Somes Island

Matiu/Somes Island in Wellington Harbour is a predator-free scientific reserve. It is also a historic reserve with a rich multicultural history.

Chatham Islands

Henga Scenic Reserve Walk

This reserve features spectacular regeneration by kopi (karaka) and mahoe. The walk takes you out onto coastal dunes towards the south and then back through the bush to your starting point.

Ocean Mail Scenic Reserve Walk

Ocean Mail Scenic Reserve includes Te Whanga Lagoon, Lakes Wharemanu and Kaimoumi and the beach at Kaiangaroa. A short track to the dunes gives views of the beach and sea.

J.M. Barker (Hapupu) National Historic Reserve Walk

One of only two national historic reserves in New Zealand, Hapupu protects Moriori rakau momori (tree carvings). There is a 10-minute bush walk through part of the reserve.

Nikau Bush Conservation Area Walk

A short track follows a loop that takes in some peaceful forest glades in among lush regeneration beneath stately palms.

Henga Scenic Reserve

This 170 hectare reserve features spectacular regeneration by kopi (karaka) and mahoe. Other features are limestone outcrops and extensive dunes with endemic plants, providing views over Petre Bay.

Ocean Mail Scenic Reserve

Ocean Mail Scenic Reserve covers 831 ha of peat dome and wetland at Te Whanga Lagoon. It also extends over the road to Kaiangaroa to include 4 km of coastal dunes.

Nikau Bush Conservation Area

Nikau Bush Conservation Area contains 19 hectares of lowland broadleaved forest. Since it was fenced regeneration has been prolific and the nikau flowering in December and January is spectacular.

J.M. Barker (Hapupu) National Historic Reserve

One of only two national historic reserves in New Zealand, Hapupu protects Moriori rakau momori (tree carvings).

Nelson/Tasman

Totaranui walks

Find out about the short and medium length walks around Totaranui.

Nelson Lakes hunting

The Nelson Lakes area is situated at the northern end of the Southern Alps. There is good red deer and chamois hunting to be had, with pigs and feral goats present in some locations.

Mt Richmond Forest Park

Mount Richmond Forest Park spans both the Nelson/Tasman and Marlborough regions. This link will take you to information about the park in the Marlborough region.

Activities on Rainbow Road/Upper Wairau Valley

Learn what you can see and do on the Rainbow Road.

Motueka hunting

The Motueka area is located at the top of the South Island. You can hunt deer, goats, pigs and chamois.

Golden Bay hunting

The Golden Bay Area covers from Takaka Hill through to Kahurangi Point and includes the northern sectors of Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks. You can hunt red deer, fallow deer, pigs and goats.

Other activities on Angelus Hut tracks and routes

Find out about other activities you can do at Lake Angelus in Nelson Lakes National Park.

Angelus Hut tracks and routes

Angelus, at 1650 metres, is perched high on the ranges between Lakes Rotoiti and Rotoroa in Nelson Lakes National Park.

Douglas Range Route

The Douglas Range Route links Aorere Valley to Cobb Valley. This route guide describes the route from the Aorere Valley.

Anatoki/Waingaro Circuit

Highlights on the circuit are: beautiful beech forest, dramatic gorge scenery, old gold workings, Lake Stanley with its rock debris dam and the historic pack track section. Mountain biking is allowed from the Uruwhenua Road end to Waingaro Hut.

Harwoods Track

At the end of Harwoods Track is Harwoods Hole, the deepest vertical shaft in New Zealand. Find out how to get there and important safety information.

Gibbs Hill mountain biking

Find out about mountain biking on the Gibbs Hill Track in Abel Tasman National Park.

Activities on the Heaphy Track

Find out about guided walks and other activities on the Heaphy Track.

Murchison day walks

Murchison is the gateway to the southern entrance to Kahurangi National Park. Find out about the short day walks accessible from Murchison.

Mt Owen tracks and routes

At 1875m Mt Owen is the highest peak in Kahurangi National Park and on a fine day the views from this peak are spectacular.

Te Waikoropupū Springs

Te Waikoropupū Springs are the largest freshwater springs in New Zealand, the largest cold water springs in the Southern Hemisphere and contain some of the clearest water ever measured.

Travers-Sabine Circuit

The Travers-Sabine Circuit is a medium to hard tramp traversing 80 km of river valleys and an alpine pass in Nelson Lakes National Park.

Kahurangi Point Route

Kahurangi Point is an unmarked route, mostly along the beach. If time allows, plan to stay overnight at Kahurangi Keepers' House, close to Kahurangi Point.

Knuckle Hill Track

From the top of Knuckle Hill are excellent views of the top of the South Island, particularly Farewell Spit and Whanganui Inlet.

Aorere Goldfields Track

Aorere Goldfields Track is a 3-hour loop, which gives you access to explore some of the more accessible gold-mining remnants.

Rawhiti Cave route

Rawhiti Cave has possibly the most diverse and extensive entrance - and twilight-zone flora of any cave in New Zealand.

Kaituna Track

Beautiful native forest and gold-mining relics are the main attractions of the Kaituna Valley. To walk the whole track takes 8-9 hours, or there are shorter walks from 20 minutes to 2 hours.

Wainui Falls track

A stunning native bush track along the Wainui River leads to Wainui Falls, the largest falls in Golden Bay.

Kaihoka Lakes walk

This 10 minute walk begins beside one lake and heads gently down to the other.

Pupu Hydro Walkway

Retracing an old gold-mining water race, this track passes through forest of young beech and rimu to mature podocarps.

Takaka short walks

Te Waikoropupū Springs, Milnthorpe Park and Grove Scenic Reserve are all a short drive from Takaka and have good opportunities for short walks.

Farewell Spit & Puponga Farm Park tramping tracks

Tramping tracks on Farewell Spit will take you to the cliff-top viewing platform of Cape Farewell and the dramatic views at Wharariki Beach.

Paynes Ford Scenic Reserve

Paynes Ford Scenic Reserve is known for its impressive line of bluffs and is one of New Zealand's popular rock-climbing areas.

Farewell Spit & Puponga Farm Park walking tracks

On the various walking tracks of Farewell Spit and Puponga Farm Park you can explore Wharariki Beach, the lighthouse and Fossil Point.

Washbourne Scenic Reserve walk

The Washbourne Scenic Reserve is a delightful patch of forest, providing a very easy 15-minute walk.

Parapara Peak

The track to the summit of Parapara Peak (1249 m) is steep and difficult, and requires fitness and experience.

Activities at Farewell Spit & Puponga Farm Park

You can take guided nature tours and horse treks on the spit. Learn about the area's walks and the historic and natural features to look out for along the way.

Farewell Spit & Puponga Farm Park

Farewell Spit, at the tip of the South Island, is New Zealand's longest sand spit. Take a guided tour of this internationally-renowned bird sanctuary or explore Puponga Farm Park.

Lake Rotoroa walking tracks

Waterfalls, lakeside picnics and the tree fuschia await on the walking tracks of Lake Rotoroa in Nelson Lakes National Park.

Inland Track

The Inland Track spans two areas. This link will take you to the information about the track, in the Golden Bay area.

Lake Rotoiti tramping tracks

Choose a tramping tracks in the area. You can circle around Lake Rotoiti, climb into the mountains above the lake or visit 40 m high Whisky Falls.

Lake Rotoiti short walks

Explore the Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project. The wheelchair-accessible Bellbird Walk leads into Honeydew Walk.

Inland Track

Inland Track travels through regenerating and undisturbed forest where tui, bellbirds and other wildlife can be seen. Occasional granite outcrops offer excellent views of the coast.

Matiri Valley & 1000 Acre Plateau

It is a 3 hour walk to Lake Matiri. From there you can do overnight tramps to 1000 Acre Plateau.

Lake Rotoiti walking tracks

View the walking tracks in the Lake Rotoiti area of National Lakes National Park.

Flower Brothers Walk

From Lake Rotoroa car park, this track passes through a stand of kahikatea and around the lake outlet emerging on the road near Lake Rotoroa Lodge.

Activities on the Abel Tasman Coast Track

Kayaking is a popular activity in the Abel Tasman Coast Track area.

Abel Tasman Coast Track

The Abel Tasman Coast Track spans two areas. This link will take you to the information about the track, in the Golden Bay area.

Abel Tasman Coast Track

Abel Tasman Coast Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks, is an easy 3 - 5 day tramp that features stunning coastal views and tremendous beaches.

Boulder Bank

This 8 km walk follows an internationally renowned natural spit of boulders.

Cable Bay Walkway

Enjoy the coastal views on this walkway between Cable Bay and The Glen, near Nelson. Boating, sea kayaking, and snorkeling are all possible.

Leslie-Karamea Track

This track, in the heart of Kahurangi National Park, gives a true backcountry experience for trampers, hunters and fishers. Mountain biking is allowed from Flora carpark to Barron Flat.

Waimea Basin walking tracks

Looking for a short walk near Nelson or Motueka? Here are some walking tracks you might like to try.

Mount Arthur Tableland Circuit

This moderately difficult tramp runs through the limestone and marble country of the Mount Arthur Tableland in Kahurangi National Park. Mountain biking is allowed from Flora carpark to Barron Flat.

Wangapeka Track

It's a 4-6 day moderately difficult tramp along the Wangapeka Track in Kahurangi National Park.

Waimea Basin

The plains and low hills between Nelson and Motueka are known as the Waimea Basin. Tramping, hunting, watersports and walks through historically and ecologically significant areas await visitors.

Alpine Route Mount Richmond Forest Park

The Mount Richmond Alpine Route spans two areas. This link will take you to the information about the track, in the South Marlborough area.

Heaphy Track

The 78.4 km Heaphy Track is the longest of the DOC Great Walks. Located in Kahurangi National Park, the track crosses expansive tussock downs, lush forests, and stunning coastline. Mountain biking is allowed on a seasonal basis.

Abel Tasman Memorial

Abel Tasman Memorial acknowledges the first and only visit by Dutch explorer Abel Janzoon Tasman to Golden Bay in 1642. It sits on a prominent coastal rock outcrop between Pohara Beach and Wainui Bay.

Hawkes Lookout

From Hawkes Lookout on Takaka Hill you can enjoy wonderful views of Riwaka Valley and Tasman Bay.

Tonga Island Marine Reserve

Find out about recreation opportunities in Tonga Island Marine Reserve in Abel Tasman National Park.

Westhaven reserves

Learn what awaits visitors to Westhaven, the first estuary in New Zealand to be protected by a combination of marine and wildlife reserve.

Horoirangi Marine Reserve

Horoirangi Marine Reserve lies north of Nelson city along the eastern side of Tasman Bay. Learn about the recreation options the reserve offers.

Activities in Nelson Lakes National Park

Find out about the activities you can do in Nelson Lakes National Park. You can walk the Travers-Sabine Cirucit and to beautiful lakes. You can take your boat out and fish for trout.

Activities in Kahurangi National Park

A network of tracks, fishing, kayaking and caving are some of the park's attractions. Mountainbiking is now allowed on three of these tracks.

Activities in Tonga Island Marine Reserve

Swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking are popular activities in the marine reserve.

Activities in Long Island - Kokomohua Marine Reserve

The best way to experience the reserve and its inhabitants is from the water. In addition to boating, snorkelling and diving there are also plenty of opportunities for bird-watching.

Activities in Horoirangi Marine Reserve

Walking, exploring the intertidal zone, kayaking, snorkelling, diving, general boating and sightseeing are all popular recreation activities in the reserve.

Activities at the Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project

There are a number of walks of varying lengths taking you through a forest now full of birds and birdsong.

Activities at the Westhaven reserves

The landscape is a rare combination of coastal forest and tidal channels. Get information about exploring the area and the birdwatching opportunities it offers.

Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project

Take one of the many walks through the Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project in Nelson Lakes National Park and you'll experience a forest alive with the sights and sounds of birds.

Activities in Abel Tasman National Park

Walking, sea kayaking and sailing are popular activities in and around the Abel Tasman National Park.

Nelson Lakes National Park

Nelson Lakes National Park is situated in the north of New Zealand's South Island. The gateway to the park is St Arnaud, a 1-2 hour drive from Nelson or Blenheim.

Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for its golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs, and its world-famous coast track.

Kahurangi National Park

Created in 1996, Kahurangi is one of New Zealand's newest and the second largest national park. It's located in the northwest corner of New Zealand's South Island.

Marlborough

South Marlborough hunting

The South Marlborough area covers from Blenheim to Kaikoura and westwards to Molesworth. You can hunt red deer, fallow deer, chamois, pigs and goats.

Sounds hunting

The Sounds Area encompasses public conservation land between Arapawa Island, D'Urville Island, Rai Saddle and the crest of Richmond Range. Hunting for red deer, fallow deer, goats, and feral pigs is popular throughout much of the area.

Rainbow Road/Upper Wairau Valley

The Rainbow Road is a 'wilderness driving' experience across private land between St Arnaud and Hanmer Springs.

Wakamarina Track

The Wakamarina Track crosses the Richmond Range from the Wairau Valley to the Wakamarina Valley. This link will take you to information about the track in the South Marlborough section of the website.

Archers Track

This walking track passes through native and pine forest from Penzance Bay to Elaine Bay.

Molesworth Station tramping tracks

There are five tramping tracks accessible from the Acheron Road; from short tracks from the cob buildings at Molesworth and Acheron to longer tracks with panorama views.

Activities on Mt Fyffe and the Seaward Kaikoura Range

Find out things you can do in the Mt Fyffe and Seaward Kaikoura Range area.

Waikakaho/Cullen Creek Walkway

This walkway follows an old goldminer's trail across the range between the Wairau Valley and Linkwater. It can be walked or ridden in one day, but you will need to arrange transport between the road ends.

Mt Fyffe and the Seaward Kaikoura Range

Find out about the Mt Fyffe and Seaward Kaikoura Range - how to get there, what you can do, and the history of the area.

Wakamarina Track

The Wakamarina Track, an old goldminers' trail, crosses the Richmond Range from the Wairau Valley to the Wakamarina Valley.

Activities at Ka Whata Tu o Rakihouia Clarence

Ka Whata Tu o Rakihouia Clarence offers excellent recreation opportunities for trampers making the walk over the range to Warden Hut. Horse riders, mountain bikers and four-wheel-drive enthusiasts will find their Clarence experience hard to beat.

Ka Whata Tu o Rakihouia Clarence

Ka Whata Tu o Rakihouia Clarence provides a remote experience in a vast rugged high-country landscape straddling the Seaward Kaikoura Range.

Sawcut Gorge/Isolated Hill Route

Isolated Hill Scenic Reserve is typical South Marlborough: rugged bluffs and steep, dry hills drained by stony rivers.

Pelorus Scenic Reserve walking tracks

Walk through the forest with a mixture of podocarp, broadleaf and beech trees, and explore the river terraces left by the Pelorus River over thousands of years.

Cullen Point Lookout Track

This short walk leads to a lookout.

Activities in the Marlborough Sounds

Learn about the tracks and walks and other recreation opportunities in the Marlborough Sounds.

Marlborough Sounds

The Marlborough Sounds are renowned for their scenic blend of bush-clad hills and tranquil bays.

French Pass Lookout Track

This track takes you to a viewpoint over historic French Pass, where the tide rushes back and forth like a river.

Piwakawaka Track

Piwakawaka Track is easy walking track leading from the northern end of Elaine Bay to a picnic area and beach.

Pelorus Sound walking tracks

While you can only get to some Pelorus Sound walking tracks by boat, there is road access to Archers Track, which you can mountain bike.

Nydia Track, Marlborough Sounds

The 27-km Nydia Track in the Sounds area of Marlborough is an easy 2-day tramp. Plan on an overnight stop at Nydia Bay.

Mount Stokes Track

This tramping track in Kenepuru Sound follows a ridge to the summit (1203 m), the highest point in the Sounds.

Queen Charlotte Sound walking tracks

From a 10 minute jaunt to a swimming beach to hour long round trips, the walking tracks of Queen Charlotte Sound give you a range of options.

Ferndale tracks

From the Ferndale campsite there is a 15 minute loop track.

Queen Charlotte Sound tramping tracks

Visit historic mining sites on these Queen Charlotte Sound tramping tracks. The Cullen Creek/Waikakaho Walkway is open to mountain bikers.

Opouri Bridle Track

This is a 3 km walking track through native forest and farmland from Opouri Saddle down to Harvey Bay (Duncan Bay). You can mountain bike on Opouri Bridle Track.

Other activities on Queen Charlotte Track

Walkers share the Queen Charlotte Track and its campsites with mountain bikers, boaties and fishers.

Queen Charlotte Track

The Queen Charlotte Track offers a spectacular trip through the Marlborough Sounds, from the historic Ship Cove through to Anakiwa in the Grove Arm.

Pelorus Track

The Pelorus Track in Mt Richmond Forest Park offers walkers 3-4 days of hard tramping through forest and along the river.

Eastern Marlborough

Eastern Marlborough is an area of rugged mountains and an equally rugged coastline. Find out about the recreational opportunities available in the area.

Northbank, Mt Richmond Forest Park

The Northbank of the Wairau River provides access to Mt Richmond Forest Park in the South Marlborough area.

Wairau Lagoons Walkway

On this flat loop track you can enjoy the richness of the estuary, which many birds and specialised plants have made their home.

Mt Richmond Alpine Route

This challenging trip above the bushline in Mt Richmond Forest Park offers outstanding views over the Waimea Plans and the Inland Kaikoura Ranges.

Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

Walking Kaikoura peninsula you can observe seals and seabirds, explore historic pa and whaling sites and enjoy clifftop vistas from sea to mountain peaks.

Mt Richmond, Northbank walking tracks

View walking tracks in the Northbank area of Mt Richmond Forest Park.

Mt Richmond, Northbank tramping tracks

The Northbank area of Mt Richmond Forest Park has a number of tramping tracks.

Marfells Beach/Cape Campbell Route

This unmarked route follows the beach from the eastern end of the camping area to Cape Campbell, the southernmost extreme of Cook Strait.

Whites Bay tracks

Whites Bay, 15 km from Tuamarina, offers safe swimming and a choice of short walks or more strenuous tramping tracks.

Mt Richmond, Northbank routes

Learn about routes in the Northbank area of Mt Richmond Forest Park.

Long Island - Kokomohua Marine Reserve

Accessible only by boat, Long Island - Kokomohua Marine Reserve offers visitors the chance to explore an environment typical of the Marlborough Sounds.

Activities at the Maud Island Te Hoiere Scientific Reserve

There are opportunities for university and other researchers, volunteers and school parties to visit the island.

Activities in Mount Richmond Forest Park

Over 430 km of walking tracks cover the park. Kayaking, fishing and mountain biking are other suggested activities.

Activities at Molesworth Station

Apart from walking the network of tracks off the Hanmer-Rainbow Road you can also go mountain biking, rafting, hunting and fishing or take a guided tour.

Molesworth Station

New Zealand's largest farm, Molesworth Station illustrates how conservation, recreation and farming can co-exist.

Mt Richmond Forest Park

Mount Richmond Forest Park spans several regions and comprises most of the steep native forest-covered mountain country between Nelson and Blenheim, as well as areas of commercially forested pine plantations on public land.

Maud Island/Te Hoiere Scientific Reserve

Maud Island in the Marlborough Sounds is a predator-free scientific reserve which is a sanctuary for rare and endemic native species. Visits are by permission only.

West Coast

Activities in the Reefton area

Wake to snow in a backcountry hut, spot and hook a trout for lunch 4WD into mining history, bike the mountains, fossick for gold, or catch the shrill of the elusive kaka.

Reefton area

Reefton is surrounded by the 180,000ha Victoria Conservation Park, named after the Victoria Ranges that run almost its entire length. It's a quintessentially kiwi town, with a heritage character that alludes to its colonial past.

Reefton tracks - Kirwans Track and Waitahu Valley

The walk up to Kirwans Hut is one of New Zealand's classic overnight tramps. A three day loop can also be made by going down the Waitahu Valley. There are incredible historic relics to be seen in this area.

Greymouth mountain bike tracks

Information on mountain biking tracks around Greymouth.

Reefton mountain bike tracks

Find out about mountain biking tracks in the Reefton area.

Denniston Plateau mountain biking tracks

DOC and the Buller Cycling Club have, in partnership, created opportunities for mountain biking on Denniston Plateau.

Gillespies Beach walking tracks

A visit to Gillespies Beach offers a scenic drive, lovely views of the Southern Alps Kā Tiritiri o te Moana, an historic cemetery and coastal walks.

River Walk Lookout Track

This fully accessible walk takes visitors on a short journey through the rainforest to a great view of Fox Glacier Te Moeka o Tuawe.

Karangarua and Douglas valleys routes

The Karangarua and Douglas valleys offer hunters, trampers and mountaineers many challenging opportunities and rewards within the rugged backcountry environment of Westland Tai Poutini National Park.

Lake Kaurapataka Route

This track starts and finishes at Aickens car park beside SH73, 5km west of Otira township.

Harper Pass

Harper Pass spans two areas. This link will take you to information about Harper Pass in Canterbury's Arthur's Pass area.

Londonderry Rock Walk

View the very large Londonderry Rock - which during the Kumara Goldrushes was too large for miners to move or break.

Mikonui Catchment - Dickie Ridge/Upper Tuke River Route

The Dickie Ridge/Tuke River Route provides a link to challenging alpine tramping opportunities and gives access to the Waitaha and Whitcombe Catchments.

Whitcombe Pass Track

The Whitcombe Pass Track takes you through the very rugged bush clad valleys of the lower Hokitika and Whitcombe Rivers to the Main Divide. This guide describes the route from the Hokitika road end to Whitcombe Pass only.

Toaroha, Hokitika, Lower Whitcombe Track

This route traverses rugged river valleys and crosses two alpine saddles. The alpine sections demand experience and good route finding skills in other than fine weather conditions.

Ross Historic Goldfields walks

Ross township is 30km south of Hokitika on SH6. All the walks listed are accessed from the Ross Goldfields Information and Heritage Centre at the end of Aylmer Street, where you can check for up to date track conditions.

Te Weheka Walkway/Cycleway

On this dual use track you can walk or cycle to the Fox Glacier carpark from Fox Glacier township.

Willberg Walk

The Willberg Walk is located in Harihari. There are two track entrances, both visible on the side of State Highway 6 near the centre of town - the track can be walked in either direction.

Castle Rocks Route

Travelling to Castle Rocks Route requires traversing the lower section of the Franz Josef Glacier Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere. Ensure that you have the correct equipment and experience to safely undertake this trip.

Fox Glacier Te Moeka o Tuawe Valley Walk

The Fox Glacier Valley Walk takes 1 hour return and offers spectacular glacier views. Observe all signs and stay behind barriers.

River Walk

Take this pleasant short walk for a view of the glacier and the opportunity to cross a historic swing bridge.

Te Ara a Waiau Walkway/Cycleway

On this dual use track you can walk or cycle to the Franz Josef Glacier carpark from Franz Josef township.

Lake Daniell Track

This is a great walk for families with young children or those people new to tramping. The track is a well formed bench track that can also be completed as a day walk.

Coal Creek Track

This walking track leads to an impressive waterfall.

Point Elizabeth Walkway

This is an interesting coastal/bush walk with good views and a few sites of historic interest along the way.

Wanganui valley tracks

The Wanganui River valley lies just to the north of Harihari on the South Island's West Coast and provides rugged backcountry opportunities for those with suitable skills and experience.

Mount Adams Route

Mount Adams sits on the edge of the Adams Wilderness Area in the Southern Alps/Kā Tiritiri o te Moana, and is a focal point for travellers along State Highway 6 from Lake Ianthe to Lake Wahapo.

Whataroa, Butler and Perth valleys tracks

The Whataroa, Butler and Perth river valleys tracks and routes provide rugged backcountry opportunities for those with suitable skills and experience.

Greymouth backcountry

If you want a physical challenge and have the necessary skills and experience have a backcountry adventure in the Greymouth area!

Greymouth backcountry routes

There are a number of routes in the Greymouth Area that go into the backcountry, some of which link up with tracks in Canterbury.

Greymouth District

The area surrounding Greymouth offers walks that provide great views of the sea, examples of native forests, waterfalls and coal and gold mining history.

Brunner Mine Site Walk

This short walk explores the Historic Brunner Mine site.

Southern Paparoa Range

The Southern Paparoa Range contains gold mining history, beautiful native forests and panoramic views from the Main Divide to the Tasman Sea.

Southern Paparoa Range routes

The Croesus Moonlight route gives panoramic views of the Paparoa Ranges.

Southern Paparoa Range walking tracks

The Moonlight and Garden Gully tracks offer opportunities to see reminders of the gold mining history of the area, and to walk through native forest.

Lake Brunner Kotuku Whakaoho

Lake Brunner is a great area to get out and explore with recreational acitivites such as boating, walking, and fishing.

Lake Brunner Kotuku Whakaoho tramping tracks

Two tramping tracks in the Lake Brunner area offer spectacular views once you've walked uphill!

Lake Brunner Kotuku Whakaoho walking tracks

Lake Brunner is a popular recreation area offering a number of recreational opportunities from short walks to more challenging walks.

Lake Brunner Kotuku Whakaoho short walks

Lake Brunner Kotuku Whakaoho is a popular recreation area offering a range of recreational activities from short walks to fishing and boating.

Springs Junction - Lewis Pass

The Springs Junction-Lewis Pass area provides visitors with a number of recreational opportunities.

Lewis Pass short walks

There are two short walks in this area that provide an opportunity to enjoy spectacular scenery and beech forest.

Reefton walking tracks - Victoria Forest Park

There are a number of walking tracks in the Victoria Forest Park area that will get you into some interesting places such as Waiuta, Inangahua suspension bridge and Murray Creek.

Hokitika Gorge Walk

This local gem is close to Hokitika. The walk passes through forest and offers stunning views of the Hokitika River. Part of the track is accessible for wheelchairs.

Hokitika hunting

The Hokitika area is in the centre of the West Coast. Hunting for red deer and chamois is popular throughout the area.

Greymouth hunting

The Greymouth Mawheranui area covers the central West Coast. Hunting for red deer, fallow deer, chamois, goats, feral pigs and game birds is popular throughout much of the area.

Franz Josef hunting

The Franz Josef - Waiau Area covers a large area of the southern West Coast. You can hunt deer, chamois, goats and tahr.

Charming Creek Walkway

Scenery and history combine in this three-hour walk on an old railway formation.

Buller hunting

The Buller Kawatiri Area manages about 300,000ha of public conservation land in the northern West Coast. Hunting for red deer, goats, feral pigs is popular throughout much of the area.

Activities in Denniston

Explore the wild and remote environment of the Denniston Plateau by walking or mountain biking.

Minnehaha Walk

This delightful walk follows a stream through the rainforest.

Activities

There are many walks in the Fox Glacier area with some affording spectacular glacier views.

Harihari Coastal Walkway

Harihari Coastal Walkway is one of the most scenic walkways on the West Coast, with spectacular views of forest, rivers, mountains and coastline.

Waitangitaona Wetland Walk

The Waitangitaona Wetland Walk is an easy walk through a regenerating kahikatea forest and flax wetland to a viewing platform with spectacular views of the Southern Alps, Kā Tiritiri o te Moana.

Peters Pool Walk

This is an easy, accessible walk to a small kettle lake which was formed by ice melting amongst glacial moraine about 200 years ago.

South Westland hunting

Hunting for red deer, chamois, thar and gamebirds is popular throughout much of the area.

West Coast Tai Poutini

West Coast Tai Poutini contains 47 areas available for tahr hunting.

Nelson Creek

Nelson Creek is an excellent spot to go walking, camping and exploring. With historic water races, tunnels, recreational gold fossicking and a number of short walks, there is plenty to do.

Lewis Pass - Waiau Pass - Blue Lake route

Waiau Pass is an alpine crossing suitable for experienced parties only, linking Lewis Pass and Nelson Lakes National Park.

Wills Valley Track

This track is for experienced trampers and starts at the Gates of Haast Bridge.

Lewis Pass tramping tracks

There are a range of tracks in this area that gives people access to some spectacular landscapes including Lake Christabel, a good habitat for native fish.

Haast

A diverse region, Haast stretches from Knight's point to the Cascade Valley and inland to the forest-lined Haast Pass. You'll find varied scenery, chances to view wildlife and many recreational opportunities.

Reefton tramping tracks - Big River to Waiuta

Tramping on tracks around Big River and Waiuta is a unique experience. There are two well serviced huts and many historic sites to explore. Experience the mystic of the 'Goldfields of Quartzopolis' - a corner of Victoria Forest Park.

Pakihi Walk

Pakihi Walk climbs through kamahi and rimu forest to a platform lookout. It's a 30-minute return trip.

Ōkārito walking tracks

North of the Franz Josef Township sits the coastal settlement of Ōkārito and the Ōkārito Lagoon. The lagoon is home to more than 76 species of native birds including the kōtuku/white heron and royal spoonbills.

Cape Foulwind Walkway

Cape Foulwind and Tauranga Bay are on the coastline about 16 km south-west of Westport. Tracks include the Seal Colony Walk and the Cape Foulwind Walkway.

Tatare Tunnels Walk

The 80-minute return Tatare Tunnels Walk follows an old 4WD road then the tracks climbs to the old water tunnels. You will need a torch and raincoat to explore the tunnels.

Terrace Walk

Follow the Terrace Walk as it winds through forest and goes by remnants of past goldmining operations. Take a torch at night to see glow-worms in the forest.

Roberts Point Track

The Roberts Point Track requires a good level of fitness. After walking one hour you will reach Hende's Hut. From there the track continues to climb on to Roberts Point where the glacier views are spectacular.

Callery Gorge Walk

Follow the Callery Gorge Walk as it climbs to a high terrace before descending to the Callery River.

Alex Knob Track

It's a 4-hour climb to the top of Alex Knob. The track zigzags up to Rata Lookout for a view of the Franz Josef Glacier. From there follow the marked track to the summit.

Lake Wombat Track

The Lake Wombat Track leads you through a lush rimu forest to the idyllic Lake Wombat.

Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere Walk

The 40-minute walk to the terminal face of the Franz Josef Glacier follows a rocky path over riverbed. Only experienced and prepared visitors should attempt climbing on the glacier.

Chalet Lookout Track

This 1 hour 30 minute return walk follows an old glacier access road through rata and kamahi forest to Chalet Lookout.

Sentinel Rock Walk

Just a short distance south of the Franz Josef township you will come to the Sentinel Rock Walk. The Sentinel Rock Lookout offers impressive views of the glacier, the valley and Waiho River.

Douglas Walk

The Douglas Walk is an easy one-hour forest walk that passes by the Peters Pool viewpoint and crosses several moraines before descending to the bridge across Dolly Creek on the way back to the road.

Canavans Knob Walk

A short climb with rewarding views of the glacier, mountains and river flats.

Mount Fox Route

Mount Fox Route is just 3 km south of the town of Fox Glacier. The challenging 3 - 3.5 hour climb to the top is only suitable for experienced and properly equipped trampers.

Lake Matheson Walk

Famous for mirror views of Aoraki/Mt Cook, Mt Tasman and Mt La Perous, at Lake Matheson you can take a 40-minute return walk to the jetty or take 1.5 hours to walk around the lake.

Moraine Walk

This easy walk 2 km south of Fox Glacier township takes you over old moraine surfaces

Copland Track

Copland Track is a popular tramping track that features spectacular forest, river and mountain scenery. The track to Welcome Flat Hut is 17 km and from there to Douglas Rock Hut is another 7 km.

Lake Kaniere walking tracks

Lake Kaniere Walkway passes picturesque bays, forest streams, lush lakeside forest and a lookout point, while Kaniere Water Race Walkway follows a historic power station water race.

Mahināpua short walks

There are a number of short walks to choose from in Mahināpua Scenic Reserve, 10 km south of Hokitika.

Mahināpua Walkway

Following an old logging tramline, the walkway reveals many relics of the 1885 sawmill's activities. The walk to Picnic Point is popular for those after a shorter walk.

Mount Tuhua Track

This is a steep tramp to the open tussock peak of Mt. Tuhua (1125 m) and is suitable for fit people only.

Lake Kaniere short walks

At Lake Kaniere, short forest walks lead to picnic areas, waterfalls and sandy beaches ideal for swimming.

Arahura & Styx valleys tracks

The Arahura and Styx valleys are popular areas for tramping and hunting. The main access in both valleys is via benched formations constructed during the early gold mining days.

Moeraki Valley

The Moeraki Valley offers good tramping for the fit and experienced. The U-shaped valley is typical of those carved out by glaciers during repeated glacial periods, the most recent about 14,000 years ago.

Fox Glacier area

The area around the Fox Glacier township offers visitors a rare opportunity to easily acess a dynamic glacial environment in a forested area while within driving and walking distance from the main highway.

Stafford Bay

Situated south of Jackson Bay, Stafford Bay is along an old road constructed in 1876, and leading from Jackson Bay to the Smoothwater River, over Stafford Saddle and onto the Cascade Plateau.

Wangapeka Track

The Wangapeka track spans two areas. This link will take you to the information about the Whangapeka Track in the Motueka Area.

Leslie - Karamea Track

The Leslie - Karamea Track spans two areas. This link will take you to the information about the track, in the Motueka Area.

Victoria Forest Park

Victoria Forest Park is the largest park of its type in the country. There is access to the park via a network of tracks, many dating from the mining days with relics amid regenerated forest.

Ōkārito Lagoon

Ōkārito is a coastal settlement bounded by ocean, estuary, sea cliffs, lush forest and unsurpassed views of the Southern Alps. Thousands of native birds visit the lagoon and many make their home in the vicinity.

Punakaiki area walks

Punakaiki walks include the world famous Pancake Rocks Walk, a 20-minute loop walk that explores a limestone landscape of pancake-shaped rock formations, blowholes and surge pools. Other walks here range from 15 minutes to 3 days.

Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes

The famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes are just a 20 minute loop walk from where you park your vehicle on the main highway at Punakaiki.

Oparara Basin

Oparara Basin is one of the finest features of the Kahurangi National Park. The 35 million-year-old complex of limestone caves, arches and channels is popular with walkers, cavers and nature lovers.

Denniston

Denniston was the main township of a collection of mining towns built to service the nearby coal mines. It offers magnificent views down to the coastal plains of the Karamea Bight and the mouth of the Waimangaroa River.

Activities at Cape Foulwind and Tauranga Bay

You can take the Seal Colony Walk to viewing platforms that overlook the seal colony. This walk can accommodate wheelchairs.

Cape Foulwind & Tauranga Bay

At Cape Foulwind and Tauranga Bay you can explore the coastline and visiting the main attraction - the New Zealand fur seal. A close but safe view allows you to watch the seals swimming, dozing in the sun and feeding their young.

Mahināpua Scenic Reserve

Lake Mahināpua is a scenic reserve that offers opportunities for camping, picnicking, walking and water based activities.

Lake Kaniere Scenic Reserve

Lake Kaniere is one of the most beautiful lakes in New Zealand. There are several picnic places and one camping area, numerous short walks including two walkways and the lake offers opportunity for a number of water sports.

Activities at Franz Josef Glacier

There are a number of short and longer walks within the glacier valley. There are also commercial guides available to guide you on these walks and provide further valuable information.

Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere

The Franz Josef Glacier offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience a dynamic glacial environment, in a temperate environment, while being within easy driving and walking distance from the main highway.

Ross Bell Tower

Ross Bell Tower on the West Coast is a historic landmark in the Ross town. The tower has been restored and rebuilt by DOC, and you can hear the bell being rung on special occasions.

Grassy Flat Hut

The newly built Grassy Flat Hut lies 12 km up the Styx River. Grassy Flat historic site was once a thoroughfare for prosepctors during the gold rush days.

Heaphy Track

The Heaphy Track spans the Nelson/Tasman and West Coast regions. This link will take you to the information about the Heaphy Track in the Nelson/Tasman region.

Activities in Westland Tai Poutini National Park

Find out about the activities you can do in Westland Tai Poutini National Park. You can visit the famous Fox and Franz Josef glaciers and outstanding mountains-to-the-sea vistas.

Activities in Paparoa National Park

Find out about walking, canoeing, rockclimbing and caving opportunities in the park. The popular Pancake Rocks and Blowholes walk is suitable for families.

Westland Tai Poutini National Park

Westland Tai Poutini National Park is located about half way down the South Island on the West Coast of New Zealand.

Paparoa National Park

Luxuriant coastal forest, limestone cliffs and canyons, caves and underground streams, and an absolutely spectacular coastline, are all packed into one national park.

Canterbury

Korowai/Torlesse Tussocklands Park mountain biking tracks

Find out more about mountain biking in Korowai/Torlesse Tussocklands Park.

Craigieburn Forest Park mountain biking tracks

Find out about mountain bike trails in Craigieburn Forest Park.

Arthur's Pass mountain biking tracks

A three-year trial has opened up the Poulter valley to mountain biking.

Ruataniwha Conservation Park mountain biking tracks

Discover the mountain biking opportunities in Ruataniwha Conservation Park.

Ahuriri Conservation Park mountain biking tracks

Discover the mountain biking opportunities in Ahuriri Conservation Park.

Lindis area mountain biking tracks

Several tracks in the Lindis area are dual use, suitable for mountain-biking.

Lake Ohau - Dobson valley tracks

The Dobson valley has a number of tramping tracks that can be walked in a day or less.

Lake Ohau - Hopkins valley tracks

The forests in this region contain a mixture of mountain and silver beech beside large open river valleys.

Lake Ohau - Ben Ohau Range tracks

There are a number of day walks, mountain bike tracks and tramps near or around Ben Ohau Range.

Ahuriri valley tramping tracks

Explore the Ahuriri valley on these short tramping tracks.

Kurow walking tracks

Spot rare native plant species on the Deep Stream track near Kurow, 2 hours north of Dunedin.

Lake Benmore walking tracks

Explore Lake Benmore on these short tracks.

Omarama tracks

There are a number of tracks in the Omarama area suitable for walking, mountain biking and horse riding.

Lake Ohau tracks

These tracks travel through beech forest near Lake Ohau.

Twizel walking and mountain bike tracks

Find out about walking and mountain bike tracks near Twizel.

Lake Pukaki walking tracks

Find out about tracks and walks near Lake Pukaki.

Lake Sumner - Doubtful valley track & routes

Doubtful valley in Lake Sumner Forest Park can be reached from beside SH 7 (Lewis Pass highway) about 165 km drive from Christchurch.

Lake Sumner - Jollie Brook tracks & routes

The Jollie Brook circuit starts and finishes off Lake Sumner Road, in Lake Sumner Forest Park.

Lake Sumner - Tui Track link from Boyle village

From Boyle village on SH 7, you can pick up tracks that link the end of the St James Walkway with tracks in Hope valley and Doubtful River, Lake Sumner Forest Park.

Lake Sumner - Nina valley tracks & routes

A swingbridge over the Lewis River gives access to the Nina valley in Lake Sumner Forest Park.

Lake Tekapo tracks

There are a number of day walks, mountain bike tracks and tramps near or around Lake Tekapo.

Hakatere Conservation Area tracks

Three tracks in Hakatere Conservation Area, Ashburton lakes, give access to Lake Emily, Stour River and Mt Barrosa.

Dry Acheron Track

Access to Dry Acheron Stream and the two covenant areas is provided courtesy of the Dry Acheron and Big Ben station owners.

Oteake Conservation Park

Oteake Conservation Park straddles the ranges dividing Otago and Canterbury, and is accessible from the Maniototo or the Waitaki Valley. This link will take you to information about the park in the Otago region.

Kirkliston Range Conservation Area

The Kirkliston Range Conservation Area, in the Waitaki Valley, is a regionally significant landscape, particularly notable for its vegetation.

Hakatere Conservation Area (Barrosa)

Hakatere Conservation Area is in mid-Canterbury, Ashburton Lakes area. It is new public land as an outcome of Barrosa pastoral lease completing tenure review.

St James - Peters Loop

Peters loop starts from the St James Homestead, Tophouse Road.

St James - Waiau Pass Track

Waiau Pass Track follows the true right of the Waiau River, St James Conservation Area.

St James - Stanley River Route

This marked route links Charlies Saddle to Stanley Vale Hut, St James Conservation Area.

St James - Fowlers Pass Track

Fowlers Pass (1296m) connects Fowlers Hut on Tophouse Road with Stanley Vale and Lake Guyon huts in the St James Conservation Area.

St James Cycle Trail

St James Cycle Trail is one of a network of special cycle trails through-out the country.

Redcliffe Conservation Area

As a result of the tenure review process for Redcliffe Station, completed in October 2009, some 7837 hectares are now public conservation land; 113 hectares of these are in scenic reserves.

Activities in Tenehaun Conservation Area

Find out about tramping and mountain-bike tracks in Tenehaun Conservation Area.

Tenehaun Conservation Area

Tenehaun Conservation Area includes the highest peak in the Moorhouse Range, as well as walking and mountain-bike public access easements above Rangitata Gorge.

Activities in Mt Alford Conservation Area

The track up Mt Alford is a journey through vegetation layers.

Mt Alford Conservation Area

Mt Alford Conservation Area offers varied vegetation, scenic views across Canterbury, and a history of forestry and diamond prospecting. Settlers used Alford Forest as one of their few sources of timber.

Activities in Mt Hutt Forest Conservation Area

Find out about walks and hunting opportunities in Mt Hutt Forest Conservation Area.

Tenehaun Conservation Area tramping tracks

Find out about walks in the Moorhouse Range and Rangitata Gorge.

Mt Alford Track

Taking you to the summit of Mt Alford, this track passes through Alford Scenic Reserve.

Mt Hutt Forest - Pudding Hill Stream Route

This route winds along Pudding Hill Stream through Mt Hutt Forest.

Mt Hutt Forest - Scotts Saddle Track

Starting in Mt Hutt Forest and ending at Mt Hutt Skifield Road, Scotts Saddle Track offers beautiful views over mid-Canterbury.

Mt Hutt Forest walking tracks

Mt Hutt Forest offers three tracks, each take around an hour return to walk.

Mt Hutt Forest short walks

The Rohododendron Walk and Te Awa Awa Walk are two short walks within the Mt Hutt Forest area.

Rakaia Gorge Walkway

This walkway offers several geological and historic features as it traverses the edge of the Rakaia Gorge.

Activities in the Lindis area

This region provides recreational opportunities from short walks to challenging mountain-biking and tramping trips.

Lindis area

This area includes conservation lands north of Lindis Pass in the Lindis Conservation Area and edges of Hawea and Ahuriri Conservation Parks.

Melina Ridge Track

This dual use tramping track traverses through the best of what the Lindis area has to offer.

Dromedary Hill Walking Track

Dromedary Hill (1664 m) is in Lindis Conservation Area, North Otago.

Pavilion Peak Track

This (dual-use) tramping track north of Lindis Pass, in Lindis Conservation Area continues on from Dromedary Hill walking track.

Te Kahui Kaupeka Conservation Park

Te Kahui Kaupeka Conservation Park encompasses spectacular landscapes of ice-steppened mountains and broad glaciated valleys in the Two Thumb range.

Activities in Te Kahui Kaupeka Conservation Park

The park caters for a wide range of recreation activities including; tramping, fishing, skiing, mountaineering, hunting and mountain biking.

Te Kahui Kaupeka Conservation Park

Te Kahui Kaupeka Conservation Park spans the Mid & South Canterbury and the Mackenzie Country & Waitaki areas. It encompasses spectacular landscapes of ice-shaped mountains and broad glaciated valleys in the Two Thumb Range.

Activities in the St James Conservation Area

The St James offers a great range of recreation opportunities for a wide range of interests and abilities.

St James Conservation Area

Located on three mountain ranges, the St James Conservation Area encompasses exceptional natural features and recreation opportunities.

Twizel River Trail

Twizel River Trail is located opposite Twizel township area on the eastern side of SH8. There are wonderful views of the Mackenzie Basin mountains along the trail.

Ohau Moraines Wetland Complex

Ohau Moraines Wetland Complex is one of the largest wetland areas to be protected in recent years. It is a vast area of red tussocklands, wetlands, rolling moraines and outwash flats.

Hakatere Conservation Park

Hakatere Conservation Park, in mid-Canterbury, is centred around the Ashburton Lakes District between the Rakaia and Rangitata Rivers.

Canterbury

Canterbury contains 12 blocks available for tahr hunting.

Where to hunt

View information about where to hunt in the North Canterbury and Arthur's Pass area.

North Canterbury & Arthur's Pass hunting

Recreational hunting in the North Canterbury & Arthur's Pass region targets chamois, deer and pigs. The region covers Canterbury from the coast to the Southern Alps, north and west of Christchurch.

Where to hunt

View information about where to hunt in the Mackenzie Country and Waitaki.

Mackenzie Country & Waitaki hunting

Mackenzie Country and Waitaki hunting blocks are well known for their tahr hunting potential. Chamois, wallabies, pigs and red deer are also found in the area.

Where to hunt

View information about where to hunt in Mid and South Canterbury.

Mid & South Canterbury hunting

The mid and south Canterbury area covers the portion of Canterbury between the Rakaia and Waitaki rivers, providing hunters with a wide range of amimals.

Walks for families in Aoraki

These short walks in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park are suitable for people of all ages and abilities.

Walks for families near Geraldine

These short walks in and around the mid-Canterbury township of Geraldine are ideal for families.

Arthur's Pass walks for families

These family-friendly short walks in Arthur's Pass National Park are all suitable for people of all ages and abilities, including young children, and can be accessed by mountain-buggies.

Ōtukaikino walk

This boardwalk loop through a wetland reserve in Christchurch city is suitable for people of all ages and abilities, and is accessible to wheelchairs and children's buggies.

Walks for families in Twizel Te Manahuna area

These family-friendly easy walks are suitable for people of all abilities and can be accessed by wheelchairs and children's buggies.

Where to hunt

View information about where to hunt in Aoraki/Mount Cook.

Aoraki/Mount Cook hunting

Recreational hunting for tahr and chamois is permitted throughout the year in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

Lewis Pass - Waiau Pass - Blue Lake route

Waiau Pass is an alpine crossing suitable for experienced parties only, linking Lewis Pass and Nelson Lakes National Park.

Grey River Nature Trail

Beginning at the northern end of Grey River picnic area, this walk is particularly suitable for family groups. A highlight is the sight of oyster shells embedded in a bank 700 metres above sea level.

Glentui tramping tracks

There are several full-day walks that start at the Glentui picnic area. You can mountain bike on the Blowhard Track.

Oxford Forest walking tracks

The various access points to Oxford Forest are linked by a series of walking tracks, including the Wharfedale track which is also a mountain bike track.

Bob's Camp Bivouac Route

Wooded Gully and Ridge walking tracks lead to this unmarked route to Bob's Camp Bivvy.

Glentui walking tracks

Glentui Loop Track nature trail and Glentui Waterfall Track start at the Glentui picnic area.

Oxford Forest tramping tracks

Tramping tracks in Oxford Forest include a climb to the summit of Oxford and offer a choice of routes to Black Hill Hut.

Mt Grey/Maukatere walking tracks

Learn about two walks you take on the slopes of Mt Grey/Maukatere.

Mt Thomas walking tracks

The walking tracks of Mt Thomas give you options ranging from one hour family-friendly round trips to longer walks to the summit of Mt Thomas.

Mt Thomas - Pinchgut Track via the Okuku River

This tramping track takes you to Pinchgut Hut via the Okuku River.

Cave Stream Scenic Reserve tracks & cave walk

A 594 metre long cave carved into limestone is the major feature of this reserve, with short walks to each entrance.

Mackenzie Basin short walks

There are a number of short walks in the Mackenzie Basin, including Ahuriri and Ruataniwha conservation parks.

Mackenzie Basin tramping tracks

There are a number of tramps described in the Mackenzie Basin, including those in Ahuriri and Ruataniwha conservation parks.

Mackenzie Basin routes

The Mackenzie Basin is the largest inter-montane (between mountains) basin in New Zealand. Marked routes in Ahuriri and Ruataniwha conservation parks are suitable for experienced trampers.

Mackenzie Basin day walking tracks

There are a number of walking tracks in the Mackenzie Basin, including those in Ahuriri and Ruataniwha conservation parks.

Lake Tekapo Walkway

The Lake Tekapo Walkway provides opportunity to enjoy the environment and magnificent scenery from a number of vantage points around Lake Tekapo.

Hanmer Forest Park tramping tracks

Tramping tracks in Hanmer Forest range in length from half-day to full-day trips, featuring forest and waterfalls and climbs to the alpine zone.

Hanmer Forest Park walking tracks

Walking tracks in Hanmer Forest range in length from 1.5 - 2.5 hour return trips featuring forest and waterfalls.

Hanmer Forest Park short walks

Short and easy walks in Hanmer Forest range from a 5 minute amble from the picnic area to a one hour return walk to a lookout.

Peel Forest Park tramping tracks

In Peel Forest Park you can follow a tramping track to Emily Falls, Rata Falls or the summit of Little Mt Peel.

Mt Somers walking tracks

At Staveley you can take a leisurely walk on a nature trail or walk into Sharplin Falls.

Mt Somers tramping tracks

Find out about tramping tracks available in Mt Somers, including the track to the summit.

Peel Forest Park walking tracks

Enjoy one of the many walking tracks available in Peel Forest Park.

Peel Forest Park routes

Learn about routes within Peel Forest Park that are recommended only for experienced and well-equipped trampers.

Mt Somers easy tramping tracks

From taking a 45-minute walk on the Sidewinder Track to hiking three hours to reach Pinnacles Hut, there are a number of easy tracks to be found at Mt Somers.

Peel Forest Park easy access tracks

Discover the 30-minute Big Tree Walk, at Peel Forest.

Mt Hutt Forest Conservation Area

Mt Hutt Forest Conservation Area protects over 4000 hectares of mountain beech forest in mid-Canterbury. It includes the popular Mt Hutt Skifield within its boundaries.

North Opuha Conservation Area

You can explore the varying terrain of North Opuha Conservation Area on foot, horseback or mountain bike.

Hunter Hills

There are a number of public conservation areas along the Hunter Hills. Hunting and camping are possible in some reserves and most have walking tracks and picnic areas.

South Canterbury conservation land

Talbot Forest, Waihi Gorge, Orari Gorge and Te Moana Scenic Reserve are remnants of a vast forest that used to cover the area, while Pioneer Park celebrates its colonial history.

Arthur's Pass: Harper Pass route

Arthur's Pass Route Guide 11 - Harper Pass. Harper Pass was the main pathway to and from the west coast for Māori when trading for pounamu (greenstone). It is described here from west to east.

Arthur's Pass: Mingha - Deception route

Arthur's Pass Route Guide 6 - Mingha - Deception. This route is a classic east-west traverse of the southern alps, crossing over Goat Pass.

Arthur's Pass: Avalanche Peak - Crow River Route

Arthur's Pass Route Guide 5 - Avalanche Peak - Crow River. This route makes a good weekend trip back-dropped by some of the best features of Arthur's Pass National Park - glaciers, mountain peaks and ice-fed rivers.

Arthur's Pass: Casey Saddle - Binser Saddle route

Arthur's Pass Route Guide 10 - Casey Saddle - Binser Saddle. This is a pleasant two day tramp, crossing easy saddles on well-defined tracks through open mountain beech forest.

Arthur's Pass: Carrington Hut route

Arthur's Pass Route Guide 1 - Carrington Hut. This route up the braided river-bed of the Waimakariri leads to a comfortable hut situated below the park's highest peaks. Carrington Hut is a good base for exploring the upper Waimakariri catchment.

Arthur's Pass: Harman Pass route

Arthur's Pass Route Guide 3 - Harman Pass. This route takes you from the open east-coast river flats over a rugged, untracked alpine pass into the rainforest of the Taipo River.

Arthur's Pass: Carrington Hut - Waimakariri Col - Otira route

Arthur's Pass Route Guide 2 - Carrington Hut - Waimakariri Col - Otira. The route over Waimakariri Col to the Rolleston River is a rugged 2-3 day alpine tramp. An ice-axe and crampons are essential.

Arthur's Pass: Minchin Pass route

Arthur's Pass Route Guide 9 - Minchin Pass. This route travels the eastern and northern flanks of the park. The sections through the upper Minchin Stream and Townsend Creek are more adventurous.

Arthur's Pass: Edwards - Otehake route

Arthur's Pass Route Guide 7 - Edwards - Otehake. A transalpine route that mixes the best of east with the wilds of the west.

Arthur's Pass: Edwards - Hawdon route

Arthur's Pass Route Guide 8 - Edwards - Hawdon. This interesting route takes you through spectacular rock-fall, past mountain tarns and over two alpine passes. Rivers are not bridged.

Arthur's Pass: Three Passes route

Arthur's Pass Route Guide 4 - Three Passes. This classic summer route crosses Harman Pass, Whitehorn Pass and Browning Pass/Noti Raureka.

Benmore Range access track

Walkers will enjoy the walk along the access easement up to the Benmore Range Conservation Area.

Benmore Range & Springs Creek Conservation Area

These two Benmore Range conservation areas came from Glenbrook Station completing the tenure review process.

Kakī/black stilt visitor hide

The kakī/black stilt visitor hide is a great place to see one of New Zealand's rarest birds up close.

Wairepo Kettleholes Conservation Area

When dry the kettleholes reveal a rich plant-life of very small herbs, which form a dense turf. When wet they are an important feeding area for a host of wading and wetland birds.

Korowai/Torlesse Tussocklands Park routes

All these trips are routes only - unmarked and suitable for fit, experienced and well-equipped people.

Lake Sumner - Hurunui swingbridge tracks & routes

Several tracks start from Hurunui swingbridge at the end of Lake Sumner Road, which is a 4WD track from Loch Katrine onwards. Vehicle access through a locked gate requires getting permission from Lakes Station.

Lake Sumner - Hope valley (Windy Point) tracks & routes

Hope valley in Lake Sumner Forest Park is accessed at Windy Point, beside SH 7, about 160 km from Christchurch.

St James Walkway

Located within the Lewis Pass National Reserve and St James Conservation Area the St James Walkway takes a leisurely five days to complete.

Activities in Ahuriri Conservation Park

Outdoor pursuits in the park include mountain biking, horse riding, fishing, hunting, climbing and walking and tramping.

Activities at Lake Tekapo

Tramping, climbing and hunting have long been associated with the area, while skifields and the skating rink assure year-round activity. The lake provides opportunity for water sports and fishing.

Activities in Ruataniwha Conservation Park

Outdoor pursuits in the park include mountain biking, horse riding, fishing, hunting, mountaineering, four wheel driving and walking and tramping.

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a highland lake and township at 710 metres, surrounded by a vast basin of golden tussock grass.

Ruataniwha Conservation Park

A region of rugged mountains, tussock lands, beech forest and sparkling rivers, the park includes Dobson, Hopkins, Huxley, Temple and Maitland valleys and the Ben Ohau Range.

Ahuriri Conservation Park

You can explore the mountains, rivers, tussocklands, forests and valuable wetlands of the park by foot, mountain bike and on horseback.

Activities in Peel Forest Park

The Rangitata River is renowned for salmon fishing, white water rafting and canoeing. Walks range from strolls to harder tramps.

Activities in Mt Somers Conservation Area

The main recreation feature of the Mount Somers Conservation Area is the Mount Somers Track, a loop track around Mt Somers.

Peel Forest Park

Peel Forest is a remnant of a forest once covering much of mid-Canterbury. The diverse forest environment attracts walkers, and the Rangitata River lures fishers, canoeists and rafters.

Mt Somers Conservation Area

Mt Somers in mid-Canterbury features rugged bush, open sub-alpine tussock lands, historic coalmines, impressive volcanic formations and deep canyons.

Ball Pass Crossing

Ball Pass Crossing is a demanding two to three-day alpine route, crossing the Mount Cook Range between the Hooker and Tasman Valleys.

Craigieburn Forest Park - Cass-Lagoon Saddle tramping track

Cass - Lagoon Saddle in Craigieburn Forest Park is a two-day round trip suitable for fit, moderately experienced and equipped parties.

Arthur's Pass: Avalanche Peak route

Arthur's Pass Route Guide 13. Many people have enjoyed this mountain climb offering panoramic views of the Southern Alps. However, some have met with tragedy because they did not realise the possible dangers of this route.

Craigieburn Forest Park tramping tracks

Day walks for more experienced trampers in Cragieburn Forest Park cross saddles and follow ridgelines.

Arthur's Pass day walks

Day walks in Arthur's Pass National Park offer moderate or demanding climbs to the bushline and beyond.

Arthur's Pass half-day walks

Half-day walks in Arthur's Pass National Park take about 3 - 4 hours return, exploring alpine valleys or basins.

Aoraki/Mount Cook village tramping tracks

There are two day tramps in the Aoraki/Mount Cook area: the Ball Flat in the Tasman valley, and the Sealy Tarns track off the Kea Point Walk above the village.

Activities at Godley Head

Godley Head has both purpose-built and dual use mountain bike tracks. You can also explore the tunnels and other historic features on foot.

Activities on Ōtamahua/Quail Island

The Ōtamahua/Quail Island Track gives you access to swimming and water-skiing beaches, historic sites and a bird-watching barricade. You can also volunteer for autumn and spring tree planting days.

Activities in Hakatere Conservation Park

The new park offers a vast range of recreational opportunities including boating, swimming, tramping, climbing, skiing, hunting, mountain biking, picnicking, camping, horse riding, and fishing.

Activities at Lake Ellesmere/Te Waihora and Kaitorete Spit

Te Waihora is New Zealand's most popular recreational duck-shooting area. You can also fish, visit the Hart's Creek bird hide and do the Christchurch - Little River Rail Trail.

Lake Ellesmere/Te Waihora

Te Waihora is a shallow, brackish coastal lake, Canterbury's largest and New Zealand's fifth largest, and an internationally important wildlife area.

Godley Head

The Godley Head WWII coastal defence battery sits atop sheer 120 metre-high cliffs. Built in 1939, it is ranked in the top ten New Zealand coastal defence heritage sites.

Ōtamahua/Quail Island Recreation Reserve

Ōtamahua/Quail Island is an inner harbour island, reached via a short ferry ride from Christchurch. It is Canterbury's largest island but is easily explored in a day.

Aoraki/Mount Cook village walking tracks

There are several walks around the village that provide views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding native alpine bush and area.

Arthur's Pass short walking tracks

Short walks on Arthur's Pass walking tracks range from a 10 minute waterfall walk, to a 1.5 hour forest walk.

Craigieburn Forest Park walking tracks

Short walks in Craigieburn Forest Park range from a 20 minute nature walk to a 3-4 hour walk to the top of Helicopter Hill.

Tasman Valley walking tracks

The Tasman Glacier, 29 km long and up to 3 km wide can be viewed from the short walks that start from the Blue Lakes Shelter.

Activities in Pōhatu Marine Reserve

The varied plants and animals in the reserve make it ideal for birdwatching, diving and snorkelling and exploring by boat.

Activities in Banks Peninsula reserves

Most of the scenic reserves on the peninsula have short walks allowing exploration, and great picnic areas. The drive to reach these scattered reserves is an adventure in itself!

Peak Hill route

The climb to the top of Peak Hill rewards walkers with sweeping views of Lake Coleridge and its surrounds. The walk is extremely exposed to the weather and walkers should be well equipped.

Activities at Mt Thomas Forest

Wooded Gully Picnic Area is the starting point for short family walks and more serious backcountry tramps and hunting trips. Dogs on a leash are permitted.

Activities in Korowai/Torlesse Tussocklands Park

The park is popular for a many activities such as tramping and hunting, winter climbing and cross-country skiing, picnicking and boating at Lake Lyndon, and natural history studies.

Activities at Mt Grey/Maukatere Forest

Tracks from the Grey River picnic area provide visitors with a range of walks. Dogs on a leash are allowed in the picnic area. There are opportunities for hunting and mountain biking.

Activities at Craigieburn Forest Park

The more adventurous can go mountain biking, skiing, climbing, four wheel driving or tackle one of the longer tracks, while others can enjoy quiet picnics, forest drives and shorter walks.

Activities at Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area

Kura Tawhiti (Castle Hill) is an ideal place for exploring, picnicking, bouldering or rock-climbing.

Activities at Cave Stream Scenic Reserve

As well as the walk through the cave itself, there are two tracks through the reserve. Other activities include picnicking, photography and summer swims in Broken River.

Activities at Hanmer Forest Park

Some tracks in the Hanmer area are exclusively for mountain bikers, some are only for walkers and others are shared. Hunting is also possible in the park.

Activities at Lake Sumner Forest Park

Lake Sumner is a fantastic place for hunting, tramping and fishing.

Activities at Glentui & Ashley Gorge

The recreation menu at Glentui and Ashley Gorge includes mountain biking, rafting, kayaking, hunting, picnicking and a range of tracks. Dogs must be on a leash.

Activities at Oxford Forest

The tracks of Oxford Forest offer day walks and longer tramps and hunting within the Oxford Recreational Hunting Area. Wharfedale Track is open to mountain bikes.

Oxford Forest

This 11,350 hectare forest near the township of Oxford features walking and mountain biking tracks and a Recreational Hunting Area.

Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area

The grand limestone rock battlements of Kura Tawhiti led early European travellers to name the area Castle Hill.

Hanmer Forest Park

Tucked up behind one of Canterbury's most popular holiday towns, Hanmer Forest Park is a walking and cycling paradise.

Mt Thomas Forest

Mt Thomas Forest and the Wooded Gully picnic area lie in the foothills of the Southern Alps, an hour by car from Christchurch.

Lake Sumner Forest Park

Remote high-country lakes, beech-clad mountains, wide rivers and hot springs complete this picturesque landscape, a tramper's mecca and a safe haven for endangered species.

Korowai/Torlesse Tussocklands Park

Centred on the Torlesse and Big Ben ranges, in Canterbury's high country, the park attracts trampers, hunters, winter climbers and cross-country skiers, picnickers, boaties and botanists.

Mt Grey/Maukatere Forest

Located at the foot of the Southern Alps an hour's drive from Christchurch, and combining forest and alpine environments, the area attracts trampers, picnickers and hunters.

Craigieburn Forest Park

Craigieburn Forest Park extends from the Waimakariri River to the Wilberforce River - with braided rivers, beech valleys, tussock grasslands, alpine screes and rugged mountain peaks topping 2300 m.

Cave Stream Scenic Reserve

A 594 metre long cave within Cave Stream Scenic Reserve is one of the most outstanding natural features in the Canterbury region.

Peak Hill Conservation Area

Peak Hill is a prominent hill on the shores of Lake Coleridge, Canterbury. At its peak at 1240 m, it offers a stunning overview of the lake and surrounding area on a fine day.

Glentui & Ashley Gorge

An hour's drive from Christchurch are preserved pockets of native vegetation where you can kayak, raft, mountain bike, take short walks near scenic picnic areas or try tougher hikes.

Christchurch - Little River Railtrail

This 44 km-long walkway and cycleway, when completed, will run from Hornby (Christchurch) to Little River on the Banks Peninsula.

Godley Head walking tracks

The Godley Head WWII coastal defence battery sits atop sheer 120 metre-high cliffs. A network of walkways let you explore the site's historic and scenic attractions.

Banks Peninsula tramping tracks

Tramping tracks around Banks Peninsula provide a challenging day or multi-day tramp. They are suitable for people with moderate to high level backcountry skills and experience as tracks may be rough and steep.

Ōtamahua/Quail Island tracks

This walk takes in historic sites such as the ships' graveyard and the quarantine barracks, as well as swimming and waterskiing beaches and a bird-watching barricade.

Banks Peninsula walking tracks

Walking times for tracks around Banks Peninsula range from 10 minutes to several hours, with walks suitable for people with low to moderate fitness and abilities.

Pōhatu Marine Reserve

At Pōhatu Marine Reserve, picnicking, swimming, boating, diving and photography are encouraged, as are educational and scientific activities, providing the reserve's plants and wildlife are not disturbed.

Banks Peninsula reserves

Banks Peninsula was once a rich mosaic of plant and bird species. The few pockets which survive as reserves give some idea of the lost diversity.

Ōtukaikino living memorial

Ōtukaikino is a 13 ha freshwater wetland reserve to the north of Christchurch.

Motukarara Conservation Nursery

Motukarara Conservation Nursery grows Canterbury native plants exclusively. At the nursery you can both buy plants and get information about them and how to grow them.

Ripapa Island Historic Reserve

Tucked close against the southern shore off Lyttelton Harbour, Ripapa Island was an ideal site for a Ngāi Tahu fortified pa and, later, a fortress to defend against Russian attacks.

Mueller Hut Route

At 1800 metres on the Sealy Range (nearly half as high as Aoraki/Mount Cook's summit), the Mueller Hut provides a 360-degree panorama encompassing glaciers, ice cliffs, vertical rock faces and New Zealand's highest peaks.

Activities in Arthur's Pass National Park

Find out about the day walks, overnight tracks and routes and mountaineering activities in Arthur's Pass National Park.

Activities in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Walking, skiing, mountaineering and scenic flights are popular activities in and around Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

Arthur's Pass National Park

Arthur's Pass National Park is situated between Canterbury and the West Coast in the South Island of New Zealand.

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is a rugged land of ice and rock, with 19 peaks over 3,000 metres including New Zealand's highest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook.

Otago

Cascade Saddle Route

The Cascade Saddle Route links the West Matukituki and Dart Valleys in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's recommended for experienced trampers as a fine weather, summer route. It spans both Wanaka and Wakatipu areas and this page takes you to the Wanaka area.

Glen Allen Track

The Glen Allen track is a walk in Kingston through native beech forest.

Te Kere Haka Track

The Te Kere Haka Track follows the shore of Lake Wakatipu.

Shirtail Track

A track climbing through beech forest following the Shirtail Stream in Kingston.

Jack's Point Track

A walk with superb lake and mountain views over undulating open grassland and scattered scrub, ending at Jack's Point.

Blue Pools Track

Blue Pools Track is accessed from State Highway 6 - the Haast Highway. It's one of Mt Aspiring National Park's very popular short and easy walks.

Sutton Salt Lake

Sutton Salt Lake is New Zealand's only inland salt lake.

Bannockburn

Bannockburn a historic town established in 1858. There are fantastic walks and mountain biking that explores the historical gold mining relics, scenic picnic spots and also a cafe and wine tasting at the local vineyards.

Deans Bank Track

This 11.5km loop walking and mountain biking track meanders along the upper slopes of the Clutha river and offers spectacular views of surrounding peaks and Otago landscapes.

Breast Hill Track

This 18 km tramping track, taking 2-3 days to complete, forms part of the Te Araroa - The Long Pathway and connects to the Timaru River Track.

Shag Point/Matakaea

Explore the nooks and crannies of this biologically and geologically fascinating headland. Discover its long cultural history of Maori settlement and historic coalmining.

Bushy Beach and Cape Wanbrow, Oamaru

Experience the natural coastal habitat of yellow-eyed penguins/hoiho, and watch penguins from the viewing hide as they cross the beach.

Gibbston River Trail

The Gibbston River Trail is a walking and mountain bike track that stretches 11km from the historic Kawarau Suspension Bridge along the south bank of the Kawarau River to Waitiri Creek Wines.

Katiki Point, Moeraki Peninsula

Katiki Point is the southern point of Moeraki Peninsula. Visit to view the historic Katiki Point Lighthouse, Te Raka a Hineatea Pa site, yellow-eyed penguins, and fur seals amongst other marine wildlife.

Moeraki Boulders

Marvel at these ancient geological phenomena strewn along Moeraki Beach.

Oteake Conservation Park and Areas hunting

The Oteake hunting area consists of over 70 000 hectares of mountainous high country, tussock plateaus, scree slopes, shrubland and wetland. Species present are pigs and red deer.

Hāwea Conservation Park hunting

100 000 hectares of public conservation land in Hāwea Conservation Park (almost the entire Park) is available for hunting. Species present are red deer, tahr and chamois.

Lake Wanaka hunting

The Lake Wanaka hunting area comprises some 20 000 hectares in the Craigie, Albert, Minaret and Rumbling Burn western tributaries of the lake, and on Mt Burke to the east of the lake. Species present are red deer, fallow deer, pigs and chamois.

Lower Matukituki Valley hunting

The Lower Matukituki Valley hunting area consists of 7000 hectares of public conservation land on the slopes to the east of the river, from Junction Flat in the East Branch down to West Wanaka. Species present are red deer and chamois.

Mount Aspiring National Park east of the Divide hunting

The Mount Aspiring National Park (east of the Divide) area is over 185 000 hectares and stretches all the way from Haast Pass/Tioripatea in the north to the Route Burn in the south. Species present are goats, red deer, whitetail deer and chamois.

Cardrona Glenorchy Shotover hunting

The Cardrona Glenorchy Shotover hunting area includes almost 40 000 hectares of mountainous land in the Humboldt eastern faces, Richardson Mountains, and in the Shotover, Motatapu and Cardrona River catchments. Species present are goats, red deer, fallow deer and chamois.

Greenstone/Caples Recreational Hunting Area (RHA)

The Greenstone/Caples Recreational Hunting Area (RHA) is 18 000 hectares in size and is a restricted hunting area reserved for the hunting of fallow deer, from 1 April to 30 September. Permits are issued for blocks within the area by ballot.

Queenstown hunting

The Queenstown hunting area consists of two blocks: Twelve Mile (2200 hectares) on the slopes of Mt Crichton, and Dog Bush (540 hectares) near Mt Nicholas Station. Species present are goats, fallow deer and chamois.

Central Otago and The Remarkables hunting

The Central Otago/Remarkables hunting area comprises 38 000 hectares of public conservation land in the Central Otago block mountains. Species present are goats, rabbits, hares, pigs and red deer, with some fallow deer in the northern Dunstan mountains and some chamois in the northern Remarkables.

Catlins hunting

The Catlins hunting area consists of over 50 000 hectares of beech, podocarp and kamahi-rata forest. Species present are goats, pigs and red deer.

Coastal Otago north of the Catlins hunting

The Coastal Otago (north of the Catlins) hunting area consists of 45 000 hectares of forest and shrubland reserves.The most common species are goats, pigs and red deer.

Sawyer Burn Track

The Sawyer Burn Track climbs through the forest to the bushline and has superb views of Lake Hawea and the surrounding mountains.

Boundary Creek Track

A pleasant climb up an old musterers' track above an upland river gorge.

Kidds Bush Nature Walk

The Kidds Bush Nature Walk is an enjoyable loop track through a mountain beech forest.

Hāwea Conservation Park

Hāwea Conservation Park offers both impressive landscapes and a wide range of recreational activities such as walking, hunting, fishing, skiing, climbing and mountain biking.

Lake Hayes Walkway

Stroll, walk, run or cycle around a lake surrounded by spectacular mountains.

Arrowtown Chinese Settlement

This is a fully interpreted walk through Arrowtown's restored Chinese Settlement.

Wentworth Track

The track takes you to the Wentworth Conservation Area with views of the Pisa and Old Woman Ranges and Nevis Bluff.

Glenroy Water Race Track

The track follows the historic Welshmen's Water Race through several creeks, then steadily climbs to Ben Cruachan with good views of Lake Wakatipu, the Basin and Nevis Bluff.

Mt Rosa Track

Starting with a steady climb to Mt Rosa, the track crosses the top with great views of the Nevis Bluff, the Kawarau Gorge and the lower Wakatipu Basin.

Lake Alta Track

A steady climb to the picturesque glacial Lake Alta.

Lower Wye Creek Track

This steep track follows the pipeline from the dam and leads you to the foot of a rock bluff. A further walk through beech forest takes you to the stream in the Lower Wye Creek basin.

Oxenbridge Tunnel Track

A short easy walk to a viewpoint that overlooks the historic Oxenbridge Tunnel river diversion and an old steam engine.

Shotover Canyon Track

The Shotover Canyon Track drops steeply from the Devils Creek Track, giving access to the Shotover Creek Conservation Area.

Moke Lake Loop Track

This popular short, undulating walk through grassland is surrounded by mountains and goes right round the lake.

Atley Track

You can see many historic gold mining features from Atley Track and there are superb views from the summit of Mt Dewar.

Devils Creek Track

Climb up to the saddle and get great views of the Wakatipu Basin.

Mt Crichton Loop Track

Twelve Mile Creek Gorge was worked intensively by gold miners and you can still see signs of sluicing.

Upper Clutha River Track

Walk or cycle along the banks of the Clutha River near Lake Wanaka.

Activities in Kopuwai Conservation Area

Kopuwai Conservation Area offers a range of recreation opportunities including hunting.

Kopuwai Conservation Area

The Kopuwai Conservation Area protects alpine vegetation, birdlife, lizards and invertebrates and is rich in Maori and European history. It offers a range of recreational activities.

Oteake Conservation Park tramping tracks

Oteake Conservation Park has a number of tracks suitable for both tramping and mountain biking.

Activities in Oteake Conservation Park

Outdoor pursuits in the park include walking, tramping, mountain biking, mountain touring in 4WD vehicles, angling, backcountry skiing, horse riding and hunting.

Oteake Conservation Park

Oteake Conservation Park covers large tracts of the St Bathans, Ewe, Hawkdun, Ida and St Marys ranges, and parts of the upper Manuherikia Basin. It protects outstanding landscapes including mountainous high country, tussock plateaux, scree, wetlands and indigenous shrubland.

Rock and Pillar Range access

The Rock and Pillar Range, little more than an hour from Dunedin, is one of Otago's most distinctive upland features; its summit ridge dominated by impressive schist tors or rocky pillars.

Silver Peaks routes

The Silver Peaks Scenic Reserve provides challenging routes in rugged country, less than 30 minutes drive from Dunedin city.

Silver Peaks tracks

The Silver Peaks Scenic Reserve provides day walks as well as challenging backcountry tramping, less than 30 minutes drive from Dunedin city.

Skyline Route

The Skyline Route is a tramping track in the Wanaka Area.

Roys Peak Track

Roys Peak Track is a walking track in the Wanaka Area.

Routeburn Track

The Routeburn Track spans both Otago and Southland areas. This link will take you to information about this Great Walk in the Te Anau area of the website.

Routeburn Nature Walk

An easy going, well interpreted loop track ideal for a family walk. It passes through beech/tawhai forest and other vegetation, similar to what the famed Routeburn Track passes through.

Bannockburn walks

A 2 hour loop walk and mountain bike through the Bannockburn Sluicings. View the historic relics that lie amongst the spectacular cliffs and pinnacles that have been sculpted by hydraulic mining.

Blue-Young Link Track

An extension of the very popular Blue Pools Walk that connects with the Young River. It is also an alternative, high river route on to the Gillespie Pass Circuit.

Matatiaho Conservation Area tracks

This area offers walking and mountain biking opportunities in a spectacular lakeside and alpine landscape.

Little Criffel Route

This route is in the Pisa Conservation Area which lies between Wanaka and Cromwell.

Mount Shrimpton Track

A good, steep bush walk to the uplands of the McKerrow Range. Great views of the Makarora Valley below and the alps beyond.

Lindis Valley Tracks

A range of tracks for walkers and mountain bikers alike, in an attractive, upland valley. Easily accessed off SH8 between Tarras and Omarama.

Pisa Conservation Area tramping tracks

Three tracks are on and around the uplands of the Pisa Conservation Area which lies between Wanaka and Cromwell.

East Matukituki Valley tracks

The East Matukituki Valley provides good day walks and access to several demanding tramping and climbing routes in Mount Aspiring National Park.

Grandview Range Track

This tramping track through a spectacular landscape connects Sandy Point and Awa Nohoaka Conservation Areas in the Upper Clutha Valley.

Hunter Valley Track

This provides access to one of the Hawea Conservation Park's most beautiful areas, the Hunter Valley.

Dingle Burn Peninsula Track

The Dingle Burn Peninsula Track is a pleasant walk to the Turihuka Conservation Area. It also provides access into Hawea Conservation Park via the Dingle Burn and Hunter River Tracks.

Dingle Burn Track

A two- to three-day tramping track through an upland valley in Hawea Conservation Park. It also provides access to Ahuriri Conservation Park.

Timaru River Track

This demanding two- to three-day tramp is for experienced parties. From Lake Hawea it follows the Timaru River, crosses Mount Martha Saddle and descends into the Ahuriri Valley.

Diamond Lake & Rocky Mountain walks

These two excellent walks in the Diamond Lake Conservation Area give wonderful views of the surrounding alps and Lake Wanaka.

Motatapu Track

The Motatapu Track is a new and demanding, 34-kilometre, three- to four-day alpine tramp for experienced parties. It follows much of an historic route that linked the Wanaka and Arrowtown areas.

Diamond Lake & Hospital Flat conservation areas

Near Lake Wanaka's western shores, both Diamond Lake and Hospital Flat conservation areas are major recreation attractions, especially for rock or sport climbers and walkers.

Earnscleugh Tailings Track

These tailings are nationally significant as the only complete record of dredging activity from 1863 to 1963.

Serpentine Track

This all-day walk, or mountain bike ride, leads to a well-preserved isolated mining area, deep in the heart of Central Otago.

Whakaari tramping tracks

Tramping tracks in Whakaari Conservation Area near Glenorchy.

Quartz Reef Point Walk

Take a short walk or mountain bike ride to Quartz Reef Point, the best preserved example of herring bone tailings in the country.

Blue Lake Walk - St Bathans

Take a short walk around historic, man-made Blue Lake in St Bathans and view sluicings and gold mining relics.

Taieri River Track

An interesting walk in the Taieri Gorge that travels alongside the Taieri River and passes through several different types of vegetation.

Outram Glen to Lee Stream Walk

A very pleasant forested walking track that follows the Taieri River round to the confluence of Lee Stream with the river.

Leith Saddle Track

A 3.5-hour tramping track that travels through the cloud forest above the Leith Saddle on Dunedin's Northern Motorway.

Grahams Bush Track

Grahams Bush Track climbs from close to sea level at Sawyers Bay to finish up on Mount Cargill Road.

Heyward Point Track

A cliff top track with great coastal views; through farm land and regenerating forest.

Aramoana Boardwalk

A boardwalk and saltmarsh experience on the edge of Otago Harbour that suits all ages and abilities.

Otago Peninsula walks

Three excellent walks on Otago Peninsula, combining coastal views with good prospects for wildlife viewing

Tunnel Beach Track

A coastal cliff track south of Dunedin and accessible from an early stage of the Southern Scenic Route

McLean Falls

A forest-lined walk to a spectacular waterfall in Catlins Forest Park.

Cathedral Caves Walk

A bush walk that leads to Waipati Beach and the very popular Cathedral Caves.

Tautuku walks

Three walks on and around the very scenic Tautuku Bay.

Walks around Papatowai

Two easy family walks combining forest and foreshore on the Catlins Coast. Both are just off the Southern Scenic Route and easy to access.

Catlins Waterfalls

Walks to two easy access waterfalls: the Matai Falls and the very well known and often photographed, Pūrākaunui Falls.

Catlins River Walk

An attractive, forest-lined river walk of three sections that has several natural features and access to good fishing.

Jacks Blowhole Track

A good walk to one of the Catlins' longstanding attractions, the often spectacular Jacks Blowhole.

Newhaven to Cannibal Bay

Thiis is a great coastal walk linking Surat and Cannibal Bays, two haulout sites for New Zealand sea lions.

Owaka District walks

Short walks near Owaka, easily accessed off the Southern Scenic Route; waterfalls, coastal views and walks and wildlife.

Nugget Point/Tokata

Short walks in the Kaka Point and Nugget Point/Tokatā area. Easily accessed bush and forest walks, and very special coastal wildlife.

Wilkin Valley - East Matukituki Traverse

This route crosses Rabbit Pass to connect with the East branch of the Matukituki River. It is suitable for experienced alpine trampers and only to be undertaken in good conditions.

Wilkin Valley tracks

These tracks follow the upper reaches of the Wilkin Valley and can be treated as a separate tramping trip or connect with, say, the Gillespie Circuit. It can also lead to a route to the Matukituki Valley.

Gillespie Pass Circuit

This is an excellent 58 kilometre, 3-4 day round trip. But not suitable in winter and at other times only to be undertaken by relatively experienced parties.

Bullendale & Dynamo Hut tracks

Traverse rugged Skippers Creek to see New Zealand's first industrial hydro power scheme or take the trail to the heart of Skippers' quartz reef mining history.

Crystal Battery Track

Retrace the miners' daily walk from their homes in Skippers to the Crystal Mine, their workplace in the 1930s and 40s.

Skippers area short walks

There are a number of short walks in the Skippers area, providing an insight to the early pioneer mining era.

Activities at Queenstown area

Learn about tracks and walks in the Queenstown area.

Activities at Wakatipu Basin

Learn about tracks and walks in the Wakatipu Basin.

Activities at Glenorchy

Activities in the Glenorchy area include water sports, tramping and visiting historic sites.

Albert Burn Hut Track

From the mouth of the Albert Burn follow the farmed river flats into the gorge and on to the Albert Burn Hut.

Blue Valley Track

The track starts at the Blue Pools carpark and climbs round and above the Blue River before descending to Camp Flat, a pleasant lunch stop or camp site.

Cameron Valley Track

Starting at the Cameron Creek car park enjoy a good day's tramp ending at the 4-bunk Cameron Hut.

Mount Brewster Track

The track starts from Fantail Falls, crosses the Haast River, and climbs steadily through beech forest to the bushline.

Makarora Valley Track

Experienced trampers can walk to the 4-bunk Makarora Hut, taking in the Stewart Falls along the way.

Aspiring Hut to Cascade Saddle

The track starts immediately behind Aspiring Hut and climbs steadily through mixed beech forest to become a route. It is an alpine crossing not to be attempted in adverse weather.

Pearl Flat to head of the Valley

This track climbs through beech forest crossing swingbridges to bring you to the head of the Matukituki Valley.

Aspiring Hut to Pearl Flat

The track enters the bush near Aspiring Hut, emerges onto an open terrace leading to Shovel Flat and continues from there to Pearl Flat.

Shotover Saddle Route

The Shotover Saddle Route offers magnificent views of the West Matukituki and Rob Roy valleys.

Scott Creek Track

This route to a bush-line musterers' hut is for experienced trampers. It is irregularly marked, steep and in parts obscure and washed out.

Sugarloaf/Rockburn Track

This marked track traverses moraine through beech forest from Lake Sylvan.

Earnslaw Burn Track

Following Earnslaw Burn through bush to the tussock basin at the head of this valley for impressive views of an icefall on Mt Earnslaw/Pikirakatahi.

Kea Basin Track

It takes half a day to climb to this beautiful sub-alpine tussock basin beneath Mt Earnslaw/Pikirakatahi.

Lake Rere

A steep climb through red beech eases before reaching picturesque Lake Rere, a popular tourist destination in the late 19th century.

Glenorchy Walkway

Glenorchy Walkway offers excellent opportunities to view bird life as its boardwalk traverses wetlands. A great family walk ideal for picnics with views of Mt Earnslaw/Pikirakatahi.

Invincible Gold Mine

Built by miners in the 1880s, the Invincible Gold Mine Track is an uphill walk that offers wonderful views of the Rees Valley and Mt Earnslaw/Pikirakatahi.

Lake Sylvan Track

This well-defined track leads through old moraine river terraces and tall red beech/tawhai raunui to pretty Lake Sylvan in Mount Aspiring National Park.

Diamond Creek Track

The track at Diamond Creek follows the true left bank of the creek to Lake Reid.

Glacier Burn Track

At Glacier Burn you'll climb through beech forest to Glacier Basin. Follow the creek beyond to view the Humboldt Mountains.

Mount Alfred

A good zigzag track climbs three quarters of the way up Mt Alfred. From there you'll follow a marked route to the bushline.

Fernhill - One Mile Track

Along the Fernhill - One Mile Track you'll see a mixture of exotic and beech forest, with alpine tussocklands at the highest sections.

Lake Dispute Track

On the Lake Dispute Track you'll climb steeply through shrubland before reaching this high country lake.

Lake Dispute to Moke Lake Track

From Lake Dispute you can walk to Moke Lake.

Bob's Cove Bridle Track

On Bob's Cove Bridle Track you'll follow history along the original bridle track that linked Queenstown and Glenorchy.

Bob's Cove Track & Nature Walk

Along the Bob's Cove Track and Nature Walk you'll find historic sites, swimming beaches and fishing opportunities.

Twelve Mile Delta to Bob's Cove Track

From Twelve Mile Delta to Bob's Cove Track is a 1.5 hour/one way walk where you'll see ancient marine sediments.

Seven Mile Track/Wilson Bay Track

Seven Mile Track and Wilson Bay Track are dual-purpose tracks for walkers and mountain bikers.

Arawata Bridle Track

The Arawata Bridle Track follows part of the original bridle trail that connected Queenstown and Glenorchy.

Sunshine Bay Walk

Sunshine Bay Walk is a native bush walk that follows along the lakeshore to the Sunshine Bay jetty and carpark.

Haast Pass/Tioripatea short walks

The main route through the Haast, State Highway 6, is part of the heritage highway system. Access to many walks and scenic attractions is directly off this highway.

Bridle Track

This well-graded track follows a section of the old Bridle Track, the first link between Otago and Westland.

French Ridge Track

Starting at Pearl Flat by Aspiring Hut the track crosses the Matukituki River and climbs through bush to the gentle tussock slopes in the sub-alpine zone.

Minaret Burn Track

This walk passes through native forest and bush, crossing burns (streams) and giving access to Lake Wanaka itself. This track is suitable for walking, mountain biking and horse riding.

Haast Pass Lookout Track

This newly formed track leads to a view point above the bushline that provides a stunning vista.

West Matukituki Track

The tramp to Aspiring Hut and beyond gives great views up and down the West Matukituki Valley. It leads onto French Ridge and Liverpool tracks.

Come in Time Battery

This signposted walk in Bendigo Conservation Area takes you down to the mine entrances and the recently restored stamper battery.

Kānuka Track

Kānuka Loop Track is the only DOC managed bush walk in Central Otago.

Liverpool Hut Track

Liverpool Hut Track is in the Matukituki Valley, an hour's drive west from Wanaka. The track starts at Aspiring Hut which you get to on the West Matukituki Track.

Rob Roy Track

Rob Roy Valley is a good entry point to an area of spectacular alpine scenery, snowfields, glaciers, sheer rock cliffs and waterfalls.

Ben Lomond Track

The Ben Lomond Track is a demanding climb, but on clear days trampers are rewarded at the summit with spectacular panoramic views.

One Mile Creek Walk

One Mile Creek Walk follows an old pipeline up to One Mile Dam, once one of New Zealand's first hydro-electric power schemes.

Kelvin Peninsula Track

The Kelvin Peninsula Track follows along the southern side of Frankton Arm and alternates from sidling below homes to traversing through regenerating native bush.

Frankton Arm Walkway

The well-used Frankton Walkway provides a pleasant stroll or bicycle ride along the lakeshore between Queenstown and Frankton.

Queenstown Hill Time Walk

The 500-metre climb up Queenstown Hill Time Walk to the summit of Te Tapu-nui (mountain of intense sacredness) is well rewarded by the views.

Otago Central Rail Trail

Developed for walkers, cyclists and horse riders, the Otago Central Rail Trail follows the former Otago Central Branch railway line for 150 kilometres from Middlemarch to Clyde.

Glenorchy area

Glenorchy, at the head of Lake Wakatipu, is the gateway to some of New Zealand's best-known, multi-day tracks. There are also good one-day tracks, with many shorter walks nearby.

Historic Haast to Paringa Cattle Track

This track was built in 1875 by farmers at Haast. Stock were driven from the Landsborough and Cascade valleys to sale yards at Whataroa, a two-week journey at best. It's now a three-day tramp.

Activities on the Caples and Greenstone tracks

The Caples and Greenstone Valleys are rainbow and brown trout fisheries of national importance and the Wakatipu Recreational Hunting Area covers both the Greenstone and Caples catchments.

Greenstone & Caples tracks

The Caples and Greenstone tracks start from the car park at the end of Greenstone Road, 86 km from Queenstown, via Glenorchy. Alternatively, they can be started from Howden Hut on the Routeburn Track.

Mount Iron Track

This very popular, close-to-Wanaka-town loop walk suits all ages and abilities and offers great views from the summit.

Activities on the Rees-Dart Track

There are limited opportunities for trout fishing in the mid Rees, and in some tributaries and parts of the Dart River.

Rees-Dart Track

The Rees-Dart Track is a 4-5 day tramping circuit which follows the Rees River and the Dart River, through leasehold farmland and the southern part of Mount Aspiring National Park.

Cascade Saddle Route

The Cascade Saddle Route is an alpine crossing between the West Matukituki and the Dart valleys in Te Wahipounamu - South West New Zealand World Heritage Area.

Queenstown area

The Queenstown area has some of New Zealand's most spectacular scenery and natural features. The region also has a rich history of both gold mining and settlement. Several walks follow goldfield trails that enable you to explore and enjoy the outstanding scenery at the same time.

Wakatipu Basin

The Wakatipu Basin has some of New Zealand's most spectacular scenery, with 75-kilometre Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand's longest lake, at its centre. At 290sq km, it's also our third largest lake, after Taupo and Te Anau.

Activities in the Skippers area

You can take 5-minute walks or take longer tracks to visit historic sites in the Skippers area. There are opportunities for kayaking, mountainbiking, picnicking and rafting.

Skippers

Skippers is part of Mount Aurum Recreation Reserve and saw much of Wakatipu's 1860s gold fever. It offers dramatic views and opportunities to walk, tramp, camp, paint, kayak, mountain bike, picnic and raft.

Activities in Haast Pass/Tioripatea

There are a range of tracks and walks in the Haast Pass/Tioripatea.

Haast Pass/Tioripatea

Haast Pass/Tioripatea is a spectacular and scenic road linking Wanaka and Haast. The scenery includes mountains, rainforest, rivers, wetlands and sea.

Activities in West Wanaka

You can walk, mountainbike or horseride the Minaret Burn Track.

West Wanaka

Beside and beyond Lake Wanaka there are five significant conservation areas, covering over 12,250 hectares of public conservation land. They provide track access into the fringes of Lake Wanaka and the peaks of Mt Alta.

Activities in the Makarora region

There are a range of short walks and tramping tracks in the Makarora region. Some of the tramping tracks are for experienced trampers only.

Makarora region

The Makarora region of Mount Aspiring National Park offers a number of tramping opportunities. Many of the tracks follow the river valleys that branch off the Makarora River and range from one-day walks to challenging four- to five-day tramps.

Activities at Matukituki Valley

There are numerous outdoor recreation opportunities in the Matukituki Valley, although many of the tramping excursions in this area require a high level of physical fitness and alpine experience.

Matukituki Valley

The East and West Matukituki Valleys offer enjoyable riverside day walks through beech forest flats, across farmland, as well as access to a number of demanding tramping and climbing routes in Mount Aspiring National Park.

Te Papanui Conservation Park

Te Papanui Conservation Park protects a large tussock grassland area where the public can walk, mountain bike, 4-wheel drive, horse trek, cross-country ski and hunt.

Activities in Bendigo

Most of the Bendigo area is 'wander at will' but you can also walk the 10km Kānuka Loop Track and visit the Come in Time Battery.

Bendigo

Bendigo's historic and scenic reserves and associated conservation areas are well worth visiting for their historic and natural features.

Activities at Flat Top Hill Conservation Area

You can walk the 40 minute Interpretive Loop Track or try mountain biking old 4wd access tracks.

Flat Top Hill Conservation Area

Walk or mountain bike around Flat Top Hill Conservation area, where native species grow in the driest of conditions. The area includes historical evidence of European and Chinese settlement.

Activities on the Otago Central Rail Trail

You can walk, ride a mountainbike or ride a horse through the rail trail. On the way you can experience striking scenery, view art deco buildings and visit courntry pubs in small towns.

Activities in Mount Aspiring National Park

You can walk the Routeburn, Gillespie Pass circuit, Rees-Dart circuit or Greenstone and Caples tracks in Mount Aspiring National Park.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a wonderful mixture of remote wilderness, high mountains and beautiful river valleys. It is a walker's paradise and a must for mountaineers.

Fiordland

Activities on the Milford Track

Limited independent day-walk opportunities are available on the Milford Track. Fishing and kayaking is also possible in and around the park.

Other activities on the Kepler Track

Recreational opportunties available on and near the Kepler Track include independent day walks, guided day walks, fishing, hunting and kayaking.

Hump Ridge Track

The Hump Ridge Track provides a wide variety of scenery during this three day/two night walking experience. The track is managed by the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track Trust.

Lake Marian Track

Lake Marian is in a hanging valley, formed by glacial action, and is one of the most beautiful settings in Fiordland.

Key Summit Track

Accessed from Milford Road the Key Summit track follows a section of the Routeburn Track and is an ideal introduction the impressive scenery and natural features of Fiordland National Park.

Milford Road short walks

There are a number of short walks accessible from the Milford Road, ranging from 10 minutes to 6 hours, giving visitors a taste of the natural features of the area.

Control Gates to Dock Bay, Brod Bay & Mt Luxmore

From Te Anau township trampers can walk sections of the Kepler track, from a 30 minutes walk to Dock Bay to a more demanding day tramp to Mt Luxmore and back.

Rainbow Reach to Shallow Bay Walk

A walk to Shallow Bay is a full day tramp from Te Anau township and gives visitors a taste of the Kepler Track.

Control Gates to Rainbow Reach Walk

This track follows the Waiau river near Te Anau township going through red and mountain beech forest.

Te Anau Visitor Centre walking tracks

If you are pressed for time 1 - 2 hour walking tracks to the Lake Te Anau control gates or Upukerora River can be enjoyed starting from Te Anau township.

Te Anau area short walks

If you have less than a day to spend there are a number of short walks to enjoy in the Te Anau area including a visit to the Te Anau Wildlife Centre.

Teal Bay Route

The Teal Bay Route links Te Waewae Bay with Lake Hauroko in Fiordland National Park.

Bluecliffs to Wairaurahiri via Port Craig - South Coast track

This part of the South Coast Track begins at Rarakau Farm carpark on Te Waewae Bay and extends west to Big River. It can be combined with the Hump Ridge Track as a round trip.

Waitutu River to Big River route - South Coast track

The South Coast Track begins at Te Waewae Bay and extends west to Big River. This stretch is a challenging route mainly following the old telephone line which linked Puysegur Point to Ōrepuki.

Wairaurahiri to Waitutu track - South Coast track

This part of the South Coast Track begins at the Wairaurahiri Hut beside the river. Nearby Waitutu Lodge is across the swingbridge and all just a few metres from the south coast.

Stockyard Cove Track

Stockyard Cove Track is a short walk from Stockyard Cove in Hope Arm, Lake Manapōuri.

Monument Track

Boat access is required to the start of the Monument Track. It's a short, but challenging 290-metre climb to the summit.

Manapōuri Track

Several tracks start on the eastern shores of Lake Manapōuri. These are suited to day trips and easy two or three day tramps.

Activities in Waitutu

South Coast Track and Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track are located in Waitutu. You can also hunt and fish in the area.

Waitutu

Waitutu is the location of the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track and the challenging South Coast Track. It is also a popular area for hunting and fishing.

George Sound Track

This track is suitable for fit, experienced and well equipped trampers only.

Snowdon Forest

Snowdon Forest is a popular area for visitors who can fish brown and rainbow trout; hunt deer, pigs or possums; or walk the many tracks.

Activities in Milford Road

There are several walks accessible from the Milford Road including one of the access points to the Routeburn track and several tracks which have wheelchair access.

Dusky Track

The Dusky Track offers trampers a challenging 84 km tramping track which requires at least eight days to complete.

Milford Road

The Milford Road section of the World Heritage Highway is a unique journey into the heart of Fiordland National Park. You can admire the scenery from a vehicle or stop to discover short walks or viewing sites along the way.

Activities at Lake Monowai/Borland Road

Tracks and walks in the area range from 45 minutes to 4 days. Monowai is a restricted waterway. There are opportunities for boating and kayaking, hunting and fishing, and mountain biking so long as you have your access permit from Biosecurity NZ.

Lake Monowai/Borland Road

The Borland Road provides access into Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area. The road provides access for trampers, hunters, mountain bikers, anglers, kayakers and those wishing to take a backcountry scenic drive.

Activities at Lake Manapōuri

There are several tracks suited to day trips and easy two or three day tramps. There are also several more demanding routes suitable for experienced parties.

Lake Manapōuri

Manapōuri is the fifth largest and second deepest lake in New Zealand. It is also one of the most beautiful. Several tracks start on the eastern shores of Lake Manapōuri.

Activities in Fiordland's marine reserves

Diving, fishing and boating are all great ways to see this unique place, but the fiords are fragile so please use care when visiting.

Fiordland's marine reserves

Fiordland's ten marine reserves range in size from 93 to 3,672 hectares, and in total include over 10,000 hectares of inner fiord marine habitat. The reserves border the Fiordland National Park and are a fantastic example of protected natural environments.

Pyke - Big Bay Route

The Pyke - Big Bay Route is a low altitude, strenuous 60 km route, suitable for experienced and well equipped parties.

Activities on the Hollyford Track

There is good access for trout fishing, deer hunting, climbing and exploration of areas beside and beyond the Hollyford track system.

Hollyford Track

The Hollyford Track is the only major track in Fiordland at low altitude which can be walked in any season and also connects to the Fiordland coastline.

Te Anau Wildlife Centre

Visit the Te Anau Wildlife Centre to learn about some of Fiordland's wildlife and view the rare flightless takahē.

Activities on the Routeburn Track

Find out about guided walks and other activities you can do on the Routeburn Track.

Routeburn Track

Traversing 32 km through Mount Aspiring National Park and Fiordland National Park, the Routeburn Track can be walked in conjunction with the Greenstone or Caples tracks.

Milford Track

Beginning at the head of Lake Te Anau and ending at Milford Sound, the 53.5 km Milford Track is in the heart of spectacular Fiordland National Park.

Kepler Track

Traversing through spectacular scenery in Fiordland National Park, the 60 km Kepler Track is a moderate walking track that takes three to four days to complete.

Activities in Fiordland National Park

There are many short walks in Fiordland National Park as well as the Milford, Hollyford, Routeburn and Hump Ridge tracks. Fishing and hunting are also popular.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a vast, remote wilderness and heart of Te Wāhipounamu - South West New Zealand World Heritage Area.

Southland

Catlins hunting

The Catlins hunting area consists of over 50 000 hectares of beech, podocarp and kamahi-rata forest. Species present are goats, pigs and red deer.

Stewart Island/Rakiura hunting

Find out everything you need to know about hunting on Stewart Island/Rakiura - where to hunt, access, permits, hunting blocks and bookings, places to stay and much more.

Stewart Island/Rakiura day tramping tracks

View day tramping tracks that start from Halfmoon Bay on Stewart Island/Rakiura.

Waituna Lagoon tracks

You can stroll the boardwalk, walk on the spectacular white quartz beach or take the outlet track at Waituna Lagoon.

Awarua Wetlands

From the glistening glassy quartz pea gravel beach to the amazing beauty of rust and green coloured alpine plants Awarua Wetlands are truly magical.

Clifden Caves

Explore the limestone caves and view the stalactites and glow worms within this rare Southland cave system.

Snowdon Forest tramping tracks

Snowdon Forest tramping tracks are used infrequently and many are marked routes only. The Mararoa, Whitestone and Upukerora Rivers offer good fishing for rainbow trout.

Borland Road routes

The Green Lake/Lake Monowai track is a five-day circuit. The route to the North Borland Hut provides a clear view of Mt Titiroa.

Borland Road tramping tracks

Borland Road and nearby tramping opportunities provides access to Lake Monowai, Lake Manapōuri and their tributary rivers which provide good trout fishing.

Borland Road walking tracks

Borland Road provides access to The Peninsula Lookout overlooking Lake Monowai and the Borland Nature Walk.

Eyre Mountains/Taka Ra Haka routes

A spectacular conservation park in the Eyre Mountains/Taka Ra Haka for the more adventurous tramper, hunter or trout fisher.

South Mavora Lake walking tracks

Looking for day walks from the Mavora Lakes camping ground in the Te Anau area? Try the South Mavora Lake Walking Track or the track to the Kiwiburn Hut.

Piano Flat & Wakiaia Forest tramping tracks

Waikaia Forest is a large island of beech forest, nestled in the mountain farmlands of northern Southland. Piano Flat, a grassy enclosure at the southern end, provides a picnic area, camping ground and several walking tracks.

Mavora - Greenstone Walkway

This is a 50 km, four day tramping trip, linking the Mavora Lakes Camping Area with the Greenstone Track. It passes through open valley tussock land and beech forested hill country.

Takitimu Mountains tramping tracks

Tramping tracks in the Takitimu Mountains take you thorugh attractive open beech forest, tussock and screes.

Takitimu Mountains routes

Challenging routes traverse the forest area of Takitimu Mountains taking you to Aparima Forks Hut or Spence Hut.

Ulva Island walking tracks

Managed by DOC as an open sanctuary, Ulva Island is one of several small islands inside Paterson Inlet, Stewart Island/Rakiura, and has a number of walking tracks for you to enjoy.

Stewart Island/Rakiura short day walks

Find out about the short walks you can enjoy on Stewart Island/Rakiura.

Stewart Island/Rakiura day walking tracks

There are a number of day walking tracks that start at Halfmoon Bay on Stewart Island/Rakiura.

Croydon Bush tramping tracks

There are several tramping opportunities available on marked routes that are maintained by the Hokonui Tramping Club.

Croydon Bush walking tracks

There are several walking tracks within Croydon Bush, which are are maintained by the Department of Conservation, Gore District Council and Hokonui Tramping Club.

Activities in Ulva Island/Te Wharawhara Marine Reserve

Scuba diving is a rewarding way to view the reserve and its inhabitants - but wear a wetsuit as the water can be very cold. Boat passengers and sea kayakers can also get a good view of the reserve.

North West Circuit Stewart Island/Rakiura

The North West Circuit offers challenging tramping around Rakiura/Stewart island's northern coast.

Southern Circuit Stewart Island/Rakiura

The Southern Circuit is regarded as a remote, challenging tramp needing good fitness and route-finding skills. You can get to it via the North West Circuit Track or by boat.

Activities at Takitimu Mountains

You can walk tracks in the area; hunt deer, possums, pigs and goats; and fish trout. Make sure you have hunting and fishing permits.

Takitimu Mountains

The Takitimu Mountains are an impressive landform that provides opportunities for tramping, hunting and fishing amongst attractive open beech forest, tussock and screes.

Activities on Stewart Island/Rakiura

There are same-day tracks and tracks taking up to 11 days for you to walk on Stewart Island/Rakiura. There are excellent opportunities for hunting whitetail and red deer.

Stewart Island/Rakiura

Stewart Island/Rakiura is home to Rakiura National Park. The main settlement in Halfmoon Bay has several visitor centres and various accommodation options. From Halfmoon Bay you can take a range of day walks.

Activities in Snowdon Forest

You can walk tracks in the area and hunt deer, pigs and possums for which a hunting permit is required. Rivers offer good fishing for brown and rainbow trout - make sure you have a fishing permit and adhere to fishing regulations.

Croydon Bush & Dolamore Park

Croydon Bush shows what much of Southland once looked like with forest, grassland and shrubland communities. Adjacent Dolamore Park has native podocarp forest, expansive lawn areas and exotic plantings.

Activities in Piano Flat & Waikaia Forest

Popular recreational pursuits in the area include horse riding, trailbike riding, trout fishing, hunting, walking and four-wheel drive excursions.

Piano Flat & Waikaia Forest

Waikaia Forest is a large island of beech forest that is the home of four unique invertebrates. Piano Flat is a grassy enclosure providing a picnic area, "back to nature" camping ground and several walking tracks.

Activities at Mavora Lakes Park

You can walk the four day Mavora-Greenstone Walkway or undertake shorter walks. Other activities you can carry out in the park are boating, fishing, hunting, mountain biking and four-wheel driving.

Mavora Lakes Park

Mavora Lakes Park is an impressive landscape of mountains, lakes, forest and tussock grassland, recognised as part of the Te Wāhipounamu/South-West New Zealand World Heritage Area.

Activities on Ulva Island Open Sanctuary

Walking tracks, toilets, shelters and information signs have been put in place for the use of visitors to the island. Ulva Island can be visited during daylight hours, at any time of the year.

Ulva Island Open Sanctuary

Ulva Island, off Stewart Island/Rakiura, is an island sanctuary that is open to the public. Free of introduced animal pests, it offers the chance to see native birds including saddleback, kakariki and kiwi.

Subantarctic islands

The subantarctic islands have World Heritage status and significant populations of unique marine animal and plant species. You need a permit to visit the islands and you must be accompanied by a government representative.

Ulva Island/Te Wharawhara Marine Reserve

By adjoining the Ulva Island Open Sanctuary, the 1075-hectare Ulva Island/Te Wharawhara Marine Reserve extends the protection of this area from land to sea.

Activities along the Catlins Highway

Along the Catlins Highway there are many short forest walks to beaches, streams, lakes, waterfalls, caves or blow holes. You are likely to encounter penguins, seals, dolphins, forest birds and seabirds.

Activities along the World Heritage Highway

There are many points of natural and historic interest along the route and varied opportunities for recreation - camping, tramping, mountain biking, trout fishing, hunting, boating, and even caving.

World Heritage Highway

The Southern Scenic Route between Te Anau and Invercargill has many points of natural and historic interest and varied opportunities for recreation along the way.

Catlins Highway

The Catlins Highway section of the Southern Scenic Route takes in the Catlins coastline and large tracts of native forest. Attractions include beaches, waterfalls and caves, wildlife viewing and the fossil forest at Curio Bay.

Activities at Curio Bay/Porpoise Bay

You can view the wildlife in the area and explore the fossil forest at low tide. Porpoise Bay with its beautiful sandy beach is popular for swimming and surfing.

Curio Bay/Porpoise Bay

Hector's dolphins/papakanua, marine wildlife and the fossilised remains of an ancient forest can be seen at Curio and Porpoise bays, on the southern coastline near Invercargill.

Activities at Eyre Mountains

The area is isolated and for the most part physically demanding. However for those keen on botany, high country history, hunting, tramping and exploration, there is great scope and variety.

Eyre Mountains/Taka Rā Haka Conservation Park

A remote recreational experience is preserved in Eyre Mountains Conservation Park to help ensure a real "backcountry" flavour, aided by a network of tracks, huts and shelters.

Rakiura Track

The Rakiura Track Great Walk is found on Stewart Island/Rakiura, just a 20 minute flight from Invercargill or an hour by ferry from Bluff.

Activities in Rakiura National Park

With about 245 km of walking tracks, Rakiura National Park is a paradise for walkers and trampers.

Rakiura National Park

Rakiura National Park is located on New Zealand's Stewart Island/Rakiura. The park covers about 157,000 ha and makes up about 85 percent of the island.

Region not known

Activities

On Kawau Island you can explore historic sites, take a walk, or simply relax on the lawn of historic Mansion House.

Goldsborough walks

Goldsborough was once a thriving mining settlement. You can explore this history by going on some of the walks in the area.

Toaroha/Zit Saddle/Kokatahi/Lathrop Saddle/Styx River Route

This route traverses alpine ridges and crosses two alpine saddles. It demands experience and good route finding skills in other than fine weather conditions.

Taipo River Track to Harman Pass

The Taipo Valley is often travelled as part of a popular route from the Waimakariri River via Harman Pass. This guide describes the route from SH73 to Harman Pass only.

Activities

Conservation parks can accommodate a wider range of activities than national parks, and Hāwea offers a wide range of recreational activities such as walking, hunting, fishing, skiing, climbing and mountain biking.

St James Walkway

Located within the Lewis Pass National Reserve and St James Conservation Area the St James Walkway takes a leisurely five days to complete. This link will take you to information in the Waimakariri part of the site.

Activities at Ōkārito Lagoon

Talk a walk up the Ōkārito Trig walk, kayak on the lagoon or simply relax and listen to the sounds of the ocean and forest.

Rahu Saddle Tracks - Reefton

These tracks lead up in Victoria Forest Park from SH7, in between Reefton and Springs Junction.

Nelson Creek walks

Nelson Creek is an excellent spot to go walking, camping and exploring. With historic water races, tunnels, recreational gold fossicking and a number of short walks, there is plenty to do.

Denniston walking tracks

Explore the wild and remote environment of the Denniston Plateau. The historic sites provide a glimpse of times gone by.

Lake Waikareiti Walk

The Lake Waikareiti Walk will take you two hours to complete a return trip. Along the way you may hear the screech of the kaka and the chatty ki-ki-ki of the yellow-crowned parakeet (kakariki).

Victoria Forest Park short walks

Victoria Forest Park contains a number of short walks often associated with the region's historic mining past.

Walks north of Haast township

The walks in this area provide travellers with magnificent photo opportunities which include a dune lake, sweeping coastline, forest plants and wildlife.

Jackson Bay Okahu walks

European settlement was attempted at Jackson Bay Okahu during the 1870s. The pioneers' attempt to "tame" the landscape was largely unsuccessful but their efforts laft a tradition of South Westland residents as being tough, resilient and independent.

Oparara Basin walking tracks

The Oparara Basin is considered one of the finest features of Kahurangi National Park. The Oparara Road provides access to Oparara Basin for walkers, cavers and other wilderness enthusiasts.

Oparara Basin short walks

The Oparara Basin is considered one of the finest features of Kahurangi National Park. An old forestry road provides access for walkers, cavers and other wilderness enthusiasts.

Tauranga Bay Seal Colony Walk

From the Tauranga Bay Car Park follow the short track to platforms that overlook the seal colony and coastline. Picnic facilities, interpretive displays and public toilets are available.

Woods Creek Track

This fascinating track goes through forest but passes by tailraces and dams and through tunnels built by miners in the 19th century.

Croesus Track

The Croesus Track in the Southern Paparoa Range offers a walk through some stunning scenery and historic sites.

Stafford Bay Route

Stafford Bay is approximately 50 km south of the Haast Junction near the Jackson Bay Okahu wharf. The tracks and routes in the area can be challenging and are recommended for fit and well-equipped trampers.

Moeraki Valley Track

The Moeraki Valley offers good tramping for the fit and experienced. The U-shaped valley is typical of those carved out by glaciers during repeated glacial periods.

Whitireia Park

Whitireia Park in Porirua city provides leisure activities such as fishing, mountain-biking, and walking.

Activities at Otaki Forks

Visitors to Otaki Forks can picnic at Boielle Flat, swim in the Waiotauru River, raft or kayak the Otaki River gorge, or enjoy short walks through Tararua Forest Park.

How to fish around Lake Taupo

Lake Taupo and its tributaries offer a huge range of fishing opportunities. Here is all you need to know to get you started.

Find out more

Weather

Learn more

Stop the spread of didymo

Check, Clean, Dry all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.

Have your say on conservation in your community

Safety

Follow the Outdoor Safety Code:
1. Plan your trip
2. Tell someone
3. Be aware of the weather
4. Know your limits
5. Take sufficient supplies

Contacts

DOC visitor centres

Give feedback on a recent visit to a DOC place