New Zealand walks
There’s no doubt that a motorhome holiday is a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty that Aotearoa has to offer, and sometimes it's impossible to resist hopping out and exploring the amazing hikes and nature trails we encounter along the way. Wear yourself out on the trek, then head back to your cosy camper for a shower and to snuggle up with a scenic view. Here are some of our favourites around New Zealand - though make sure to check the conditions and DOC guidelines before heading out, as some of them are more challenging in winter.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Base yourself in Taupo for this walk and you’ll be perfectly set up, with all the amenities you might need on the volcanic caldera of Lake Taupo. The Tongariro Crossing is just an hour’s drive from town, just make sure you’ve made sure to book transport to bring you back from the other end, as this hike is eight hours long. It will definitely get the blood pumping, as the steep and meandering uphill trails take you past lava flows, an active volcanic crater, and the lakes which the naturally occurring calcium carbonate has dyed miraculous shades of emerald and blue. Once you’re pink in the cheeks, you can enjoy the cool descent through tussock slopes and green forest. This hike isn’t for the faint of heart, and is best completed outside the snow season - both for the milder conditions, and to make the most of the stunning views.
Image courtesy of Tourism New Zealand
Jack’s Point
An easy 20 minute drive from Queenstown, Jack’s Point is an idyllic way to spend a crisp winter morning before warming your cockles at any of the number of vineyards on the way back into town (Amisfield Bistro and Cellar and Appellation Wine Tours are personal favourites). This four hour track can be started in two places; Jardine Park or at the Jack's Point Clubhouse. It’s a beautiful walk over undulating open grassland and scattered scrub, though there are definitely a few tight corners and steep pitches. The breathtaking views of the mountains that line Lake Wakatipu that will meet you at the peak of this walk are the perfect prize for your hard work - what are you waiting for?
Wellington Southern Walkway
If you prefer something with an urban element, try the 11km Wellington Southern Walkway which starts at Oriental Bay and climbs all the way to the top of Mount Victoria? The incredible panoramic views of city, harbour, and hills make the perfect photo op, but you’ll have no shortage of these along your way. The path winds through forest and emerges near Wellington Zoo before looping back down to the waterfront of the rugged south coast. It will take between four and five hours, and while there are some uphills along the way, for the most part the terrain is relatively flat and suitable for all fitness levels.
Roy’s Peak
If you want to feel like you’re truly on top of the world, Roy’s Peak in Wanaka is the walk for you, as long as you’re prepared for the steep incline and rugged terrain. Head upwards through classic south island alpine meadows and tussock grasslands and you’ll be rewarded with some of the most stunning views Aotearoa has to offer, overlooking Lake Wānaka, Tititea and the surrounding peaks. It’s a 16 km loop which should take between five and six hours, so bring plenty of scroggin for the trek, get your walking shoes on and get going!
