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The Best Day Walks in New Zealand's South Island


New Zealand’s South Island is a dream destination for nature enthusiasts, offering some of the world’s most awe-inspiring hiking trails. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or just looking to soak up the scenery, a New Zealand guided tour can help you uncover the island’s natural wonders with ease. From serene lakeside strolls to challenging climbs with breathtaking views, these New Zealand hiking trails are must-sees for anyone planning a South Island New Zealand tour. Let's explore New Zealand's' South Island top day walks for every adventurer in 2025!


Hooker Valley Track

Hooker Valley Track, Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

Where: Mount Cook/Aoraki National Park
Length: 10 km (6.2 miles) return
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Easy

The Hooker Valley Track is one of the most popular New Zealand hikes, and it’s easy to see why. This well-maintained trail offers a relatively flat route, making it accessible to most fitness levels. As you venture into the heart of the Southern Alps, you’ll pass alpine meadows, cross three sturdy swing bridges, and enjoy views of the Mueller Glacier and Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The highlight is reaching Hooker Lake, where icebergs float serenely, and on a clear day, Mount Cook’s reflection graces the water. A New Zealand hiking guide can enhance this experience by sharing fascinating insights about the area’s unique geology and flora.

Walking Bridge at Hooker Valley Track

What to Expect: Stunning mountain vistas, glacier-fed rivers, and the chance to experience one of the finest New Zealand hiking tours. Even first-time hikers will find this trail manageable and rewarding.


Roy’s Peak

Roys Peak looking over Lake Wanaka

Where: Wanaka
Length: 16 km (10 miles) return
Time: 5-7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard

Roy’s Peak offers one of the most iconic views in New Zealand. This hike involves a steady uphill climb, with a series of switchbacks that seem endless but reward you with ever-improving views. At the summit, you’ll be greeted with panoramic vistas of Lake Wanaka, the surrounding peaks, and the Southern Alps. A guided New Zealand hiking tour can make the steep ascent more enjoyable, offering rest stops and stories about the region’s history and wildlife.

Roys Peak

What to Expect: A challenging but achievable climb with spectacular views. The summit is an Instagram favourite, so expect to share the trail with other adventurers.


Abel Tasman Coast Track

Hiking in the Abel Tasman

Where: Abel Tasman National Park
Length: 60 km (37 miles) total (day walk options available)
Time: Varies (3-4 hours for shorter sections)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

The Abel Tasman Coast Track is usually enjoyed as a multi-day adventure, but it’s equally delightful as a day walk. This trail takes you through lush native bush, golden beaches, and clear blue waters, creating a tropical paradise vibe. Popular day walk sections include Marahau to Anchorage, which takes around three to four hours each way. Keep an eye out for seals lounging on the rocks and native birds flitting through the forest.

Hiking at Abel Tasman

What to Expect: A relaxing hike with opportunities for swimming and sunbathing. A guided New Zealand hiking tour will ensure you don’t miss hidden gems along the track.


10 Day Glaciers & Overnight Fiordland Tour


Key Summit Track

Key Summit Hike

Where: Fiordland National Park
Length: 7 km (4.3 miles) return
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate

Part of the famous Routeburn Track, the Key Summit Track is an excellent option for a day walk. Starting at The Divide, you’ll ascend through lush forest before emerging into an alpine wonderland. At the summit, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Fiordland, including Lake Marian, the Hollyford Valley, and the Darran Mountains. The alpine environment is unique, with fascinating plant life and occasional glimpses of rare bird species.

Key Summit, Hike in New Zealand

What to Expect: A moderately challenging climb with some of the best views in Fiordland. A New Zealand hiking guide can provide fascinating insights into the region’s natural history.


Lake Matheson Walk

View of Mt Cook from Lake Matheson

Where: West Coast
Length: 4.4 km (2.7 miles) loop
Time: 1.5-2 hours
Difficulty: Easy

Lake Matheson is a must-visit for photography lovers. Famous for its mirror-like reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, this gentle loop track offers plenty of viewing spots to capture the perfect shot. The trail meanders through ancient forest and alongside the lake, with interpretive signs providing information about the area’s history and ecology.

Walking along Lake Matheson

What to Expect: A leisurely walk with incredible photo opportunities. Consider adding this to your South Island New Zealand tour for a tranquil nature experience.


Rob Roy Glacier Track

View of Rob Roy Glacier

Where: Mount Aspiring National Park
Length: 10 km (6.2 miles) return
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate

The Rob Roy Glacier Track is a hidden gem that showcases the wild beauty of Mount Aspiring National Park. The trail follows the Rob Roy Stream, climbing through beech forest to a stunning viewpoint of the glacier. Waterfalls tumble down the glacier’s face, and you might even spot a kea, New Zealand’s cheeky alpine parrot.

Hike along the Rob Roy Glacier Trail

What to Expect: A manageable climb with jaw-dropping views. This track is ideal for those seeking a guided New Zealand hiking experience with plenty of photo-worthy moments.


Ben Lomond Track

Ben Lomond Saddle, Queenstown New Zealand

Where: Queenstown
Length: 11 km (6.8 miles) return
Time: 6-8 hours
Difficulty: Hard

The Ben Lomond Track is a challenging hike that rewards adventurers with some of the best views in Queenstown. Starting in the town centre, the trail ascends steeply through native bush before reaching tussock-covered slopes and ridgelines. The summit offers 360-degree views of Lake Wakatipu, the surrounding mountains, and the Southern Alps.

What to Expect: A demanding climb with unbeatable views. If you’re looking for a South Island New Zealand tour that combines adventure and scenery, this hike should be on your list.


Fox Glacier Valley Walk

Walking along Fox Glacier guided tour

Where: West Coast
Length: 2.6 km (1.6 miles) return
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy

For an up-close glacier experience without a strenuous hike, the Fox Glacier Valley Walk is perfect. This short trail takes you to the glacier’s terminal face, offering an impressive view of these ancient ice rivers. Along the way, you’ll pass waterfalls and riverbeds framed by the towering Southern Alps.

What to Expect: An easy walk with a big payoff. This is a must-do for anyone on a South Island New Zealand tour looking to experience the West Coast’s rugged beauty.


Your New Zealand Hiking Adventure Awaits

New Zealand’s South Island offers an array of hiking trails that cater to all fitness levels and interests. Whether you’re exploring with a hiking guide in New Zealand or venturing out on your own, these trails promise unforgettable views and unique experiences. To make the most of your New Zealand holiday, consider joining a guided tour that combines the island’s best hikes with other top attractions. With its unmatched natural beauty and world-class trails, New Zealand is the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Speak with a Travel Specialist

Categories:
- South Island Touring
- Walking, Hiking & Biking
- Things to Do
- National Parks & Wildlife

Published on: 20 Jan 2025, Written by: Jake Rudd

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