Discover dramatic landscapes and some of the most stunning scenery in the world on our walking holidays in New Zealand. Comprising North Island and South Island and more than 700 smaller islands, this dynamic country is a magnificent destination to explore on foot. From sprawling national parks and world-class beaches to the zestful Māori culture, you’ll set off on an epic journey through some of the country’s most extraordinary landscapes.
Challenge yourself with a trek through the clouds to a volcanic crater or walk along the rugged coastline and soak up uninterrupted views across the Pacific Ocean. Our range of guided group holidays lets you take it all in with an expert guide who steers you to hidden treasures along the road-less-travelled. Imagine hiking through a Jurassic rainforest, along a giant glacier or to the rim of a volcanic crater – every day is unique adventure.
At Exodus, walking and trekking is in our DNA. With humble beginnings over 40 years ago, we now offer the best range of walking holidays worldwide. Our trekking leaders are some of the most experienced on the planet today, meaning you’ll learn about the culture and history and lesser-known facts about each destination you visit in New Zealand. Our walking tours are as diverse and interesting as the landscapes themselves and our itineraries are packed with adventures. On our Trekking in New Zealand trip you’ll explore the beaches of Abel Tasman, hike through Mt Aspiring National Park and walk along the rugged peaks of Mt Cook National Park.
Whirinaki Forest Park: Spanning an incredible 60,0000 hectares, Whirinaki Forest Park is known for its mighty podocarp trees. Owing to its Jurassic-like landscape, the forest was used as a location when filming the BBC series ‘Walking with Dinosaurs’. It’s a strange but incredible feeling as you step back in time and hike among giant ferns and trees that are buzzing with rare wildlife. This is one of the world’s last prehistoric rainforests and learning about the history and diverse habitats is just fascinating.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Found inside the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tongariro National Park, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing takes you on a remarkable journey through a lunar-like volcanic landscape. Follow a meandering track that leads up to the Mt Tongariro’s craters and see the lava flow and ash fields en route to the Red Crater. The scenery on this hike is unlike anything else you’ve witnessed before and while certain sections are demanding, the views are the only reward you need for your efforts. Cradled by jagged peaks, the geothermal Emerald and Blue lakes of Tongariro are breath-taking and provide the perfect spot for enjoying the views.
Abel Tasman National Park Coastal Track: Situated to the north of South Island, Abel Tasman National Park is famous for its untouched natural beauty with a coastal trail that winds along golden beaches and the ridges of Wainui and Marahau. Discover verdant forests along the coast and walk over the suspension bridge that crosses Falls River as you pass between beautiful bays where sun-bleached sands and ocean views unfurl. Although the entire trail runs for 60km, even just walking a section will introduce you to some of New Zealand’s most diverse landscapes. Anchorage is particularly scenic and it’s worth spending some time on the beach to enjoy the views.
Rob Roy Glacier: Wrapped inside Mt Aspiring National Park, the Rob Roy Glacier has a setting like no other. Starting from Raspberry Flat, the trail guides you over a suspension bridge and between soaring mountains, river valleys and pretty alpine lakes to reach this impressive glacier. Along the way you’ll climb through beech forest that fringes the Rob Roy Stream and eventually opens out onto an alpine meadow with a spectacular view of the giant glacier. Look out for the kea, a species of mountain parrot indigenous to the alpine regions of New Zealand’s South Island.
Kepler Track: The awe-inspiring Kepler Track is filled with drama and intrigue and takes you on a journey of discovery through the UNESCO World Heritage area of Fiordland National Park. Walk among the exceptionally diverse wilderness made up of mountain peaks, native forest, waterfalls and glacial valleys. Because much of the area is dominated by water, a temperate rainforest has flourished here. Explore the lakeside before hiking through the forest and up to the limestone peaks where views of the Fiordland, Kepler mountains and glistening lakes roll into the distance.
This was an amazing trip to see the highlights of new Zealand. It is full on with long driving days staying in a different hotel every 1-2 days. The walks are mostly short but there a few days of longer walks but these are optional (just don’t miss Hooker valley ) Unfortunately due to the weather we weren’t able to do Tongariro alpine crossing but instead walked to waterfall and lakes which was great
This was a fantastic trip where we saw so much . Not for anyone wanting to take it easy. Some fantastic sights great tour manager and lovely accommodation
A packed trip including most of the scenery and activities you can get in New Zealand.Although we covered a lot of kilometers, there was time to walk, take a boat and just take it all in. We had a great tour leader who also drove the van, even the men in the group noticed she is a very good driver.Everything was well planned for, including stops for buying food in supermarkets, and of course the toilet stops. We were lucky with the weather, although the only rainy day was when we were in Tongariro so the crossing was cancelled.But later in the afternoon it was still possible to walk around a bit. Most of the group, if not all thought that another night in Rotorua and especially in Mount Cook would add to the trip.The hotels were very good, most of one hotel group,but the hotel in Mount Cook stood out and even had a complete kitchen, and the views… with clear skies just amazing.,
