NORTH ISLAND
1. Aotea Track, Auckland
Great Barrier Island is only a halfhour flight from Auckland, but it feels a world away. The three-day Aotea Track takes you through the island’s rugged interior, characterised by diverse landscapes, including wetlands and regenerating native forest. Along the 25km of boardwalks, ridgelines and logging trails, you’ll encounter native birdlife, impressive vistas, magical waterfalls, kauri groves and even some therapeutic hot springs.
Several steep climbs require a decent level of fitness. If you’d prefer not to tackle the whole thing, start from the Kaitoke Hot Springs and spend a night at the Mt Heale DOC hut (adult $15, child $7.50). The sunset and stargazing you’ll experience here are nothing short of spectacular.
Getting there: Great Barrier Island is 30 minutes from Auckland by plane, or 41⁄2 hours by ferry. Book shuttle transfers to and from the track at greatbarrierislandtourism. co.nz
Want more? In the far north of the Coromandel Peninsula, you’ll find the Coromandel Coastal Walkway, a day walk between Fletcher and Stony bays, with delightful coastal views.
2. Urupukapuka Island Walk, Northland
This 7.3km family-friendly walk navigates the undulating terrain of the Bay of Islands’ largest island. You could make Urupukapuka a quick stopover on your way to see the Hole in the Rock, but overnighting at one of the campgrounds gives you time to explore this beautiful island once the daytrippers have departed.
The whole thing takes about five hours, but you can break it up into shorter sections. There are sweeping views for the vast majority of this walk, and if you do it in the evening you’ll get the bonus of a magnificent Bay of Islands sunset. Take a towel and your togs so you can stop for a refreshing dip at one of the secluded bays along the way.
Getting there: Ferries travel from Paihia and Russell to Urupukapuka Island (40 mins, adult $50, child $30). Book at exploregroup.co.nz
Want more? Northland’s Cape Brett and Te Whara tracks offer more of a challenge for seasoned hikers.
3. Tarawera Trail, Bay of Plenty
This one’s for those who’ve already done the Tongariro Crossing and are looking for another day walk with geothermal sights. This 15km hike serves up beautiful views of Lake Tarawera and its lush surrounds, which are sacred to the Tuhourangi, Nga¯ ti Rangitihi and Nga¯ ti Hinemihi. Mt Tarawera’s looming presence is a reminder of the devastating eruption in 1886 that destroyed one of New Zealand’s premier tourist spots, the pink-and-white terraces.
Bathing in the natural hot springs at Hot Water Beach is a relaxing way to finish the trail. Stay overnight at the Hot Water Beach campsite (adult $15, child $7.50), or take a water taxi back to the start.
Getting there: The starting point is a 15-20 minute drive from Rotorua, about 400m before the Buried Village. Pre-book your return water taxi (adult $30, child $20) at totallytarawera.com
Want more? The Pouakai Crossing, Taranaki’s answer to the Tongariro Crossing, is another impressive volcanic adventure.