The 8 Best Day Hikes in North Island, New Zealand

The 8 Best Day Hikes in North Island, New Zealand

We review the best day hikes in the North Island. No tents, sleeping bags or bulky backpacks required

New Zealand is one of the best hiking destinations in the world and although the South Island steals the headlines for long-distance hikes, the North Island has much to offer in terms of shorter routes.

However, don't let shorter distances fool you: these trails may be short, but they aren't always sweet. Some are quite challenging. What they all have in common is spectacular scenery. Emerald lakes, rugged coastlines and rocky stalagmites are the defining features of these North Island day hikes.

Mount Taranaki

Distance: 13kmDuration: 7-8 hoursDifficulty: Very difficultFurther information: doc.govt.nz

alt="Best Day Hikes in New Zealand's North Island Mt Taranki">DreamtimeThe summit of Mt Taranaki is 2,518 m (8,261 ft) high

Although the distance may be relatively short, it's the altitude gained on this hike in Egmont National Park that's the killer. The route starts at 1,492 m (4,895 ft) and climbs 1,600 m (5,250 ft) in just under 6.5 km to the 2,518 m (8,261 ft) summit of Mt Taranaki. However, the priceless view at the summit, high above the cloud line, makes the huffing and puffing completely worth it.

This is by far the most challenging of the North Island day hikes. If you are not an experienced hiker, this steep and challenging hike is probably best attempted with a local guide.

Tongariro Alpine crossing

Distance: 19.4kmDuration: 5-7 hoursDifficulty: DifficultFurther information: doc.govt.nz / tongarirocrossing.org.nz

alt=”best day hikes on New Zealand’s North Island “>DreamtimeThe Tongariro Alpine Crossing has been named one of the best day hikes in the world

Named one of the best day hikes in the world by National Geographic, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a spectacular hike through a unique volcanic alpine landscape.

The steep but hilly trail in New Zealand's oldest national park, Tongariro, traverses a range of dramatic landscapes with steaming vents, glacial valleys, cooled lava flows, alpine vegetation and vibrant crater lakes.

Cape Brett walkway

Distance: 16.5km (one way)Duration: 5-7 hoursDifficulty: Moderate to difficultFurther information: doc.govt.nz / capebrett.co.nz

alt=”The best day hikes in New Zealand’s North Island 1″>DreamtimeCape Brett Lighthouse in the Bay of Islands

This challenging but rewarding coastal day hike in the Bay of Islands ends at the famous lighthouse of the same name. The area is known for its early Maori history, steep, exposed cliffs and expansive ocean views.

Along the way, there is the option to take a side trail (one hour round trip) down to Deep Water Cove for a refreshing swim. Stay in the old lighthouse keeper's house, converted into a bunkhouse, or arrange a boat to pick you up for the return trip. During the hike, keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the surf.

Putangirua Pinnacles

Distance: 4.6kmDuration: 1-2 hoursDifficulty: Easy to moderateMore information: doc.govt.nz

alt=”The best day hikes in New Zealand’s North Island 2″>DreamtimeThe Putangirua Pinnacles are exceptional

The hike through the Putangirua Pinnacles is extraordinary to say the least. The twisting rock stalagmites that shoot up from the rocky terrain played a starring role in the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy and formed eerie scenes in “The Return of the King.” Aside from the bizarre peaks, there are beautiful views of Palliser Bay and Lake Onoke along the way.

Coromandel Coastal Walk

Distance: 20kmDuration: 5-7 hoursDifficulty: Easy to moderateMore information: doc.govt.nz / thecoromandel.com

alt=”The best day hikes in New Zealand’s North Island 5″>DreamtimeThe Coromandel Coastal Walk is home to several sparkling coves

Arguably one of the best coastal walks in New Zealand, the Coromandel Coastal Walk is home to beautiful beaches, tranquil coastal forests and sparkling bays. The hilly route is mostly moderate, crossing farmland and hugging the coast throughout its course.

This return hike can be shortened to an easy hike if you arrange a local driver to pick you up at the end of the trail. It's also possible to split the trip by staying overnight at one of the campsites that line the trail.

Blue Lake (Tikitapu) route

Distance: 5.5kmDuration: 1-2 hoursDifficulty: EasyFurther information: doc.govt.nz

alt=”The best day hikes in New Zealand’s North Island 3″>DreamtimeThe walk around Blue Lake (Tikitapu) is gentle but picturesque

This is a gentle but scenic circular walk around Rotorua's pretty and tranquil Blue Lake (Tikitapu). The coniferous Whakarewarewa Forest borders the shore for much of the route, occasionally interrupted by a pristine beach or patch of grassland. The easy walk is a perfect way to break up the activities during a busy visit to Rotorua.

Rangitoto Peak

Distance: 7kmDuration: 2 hoursDifficulty: Easy to moderateMore information: doc.govt.nz

alt=”The best day hikes in New Zealand’s North Island 7″>DreamtimeRangitoto Island seen from Auckland

Rangitoto Island, which dominates the Hauraki Gulf with its conical peak, is an Auckland icon and home to several hiking trails. The summit trail is by far the most popular, and it's easy to see why thanks to the excellent panoramic views of the city from the summit. The trail begins at Rangitoto Wharf and passes through Pōhutukawa forest and lava fields on the way to the summit at 259 m (850 ft).

The daily Rangitoto ferry runs from downtown Auckland to Rangitoto Wharf (25 minutes each way), where the summit trail begins.

Wenderholm edge railway

Distance: 4kmDuration: 1-2 hoursDifficulty: EasyFurther information: aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

alt=“The best day hikes in New Zealand's North Island 4″>DreamtimeWenderholm Perimeter Track is a leisurely day hike

The quietest of the North Island's day hikes is the tame Wenderholm Perimeter Track in Wenderholm Regional Park, about 30 minutes' drive from downtown Auckland.

Known for its tranquil beaches and pōhutukawa trees, the regional park is an excellent escape from New Zealand's largest city. There are no peaks, pinnacles or cliff edges here. Instead, enjoy a cool swim or simply lounge on a pristine beach.

Day hikes on the North Island: The most important thing

What: Discover the best day hikes in North Island, New Zealand.

Where:We explored New Zealand's North Island in an Apollo motorhome. We loved the flexibility and spontaneity of #vanlife as we didn't have to plan or book transportation or accommodation in advance. We simply chose at the beginning of each day where we wanted to go and what we wanted to see.

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Atlas & Boots

Our Euro Tourer Campervan was cleverly designed and included heating and air conditioning, shower and toilet, a fully equipped kitchen with microwave, gas stove and fridge and a double bed that could be converted into a seating area and a desk or dining table during the day. For additional amenities, book a spot at a top 10 campsite.

When:The best time to travel to New Zealand is Sep-Apr. Summer (December to February) offers excellent hiking weather and a variety of festivals and events. The fall (Mar-Apr) and spring (Sep-Nov) shoulder seasons have nice weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.How:Book a motorhome with Apollo Motorhome Holidays. Driving in New Zealand is exceptionally easy, with wide roads, excellent infrastructure and relatively few cars - perfect for exploring by motorhome.

We flew from the UK to New Zealand via Singapore and Australia. For longer stays at Changi Airport in Singapore, we recommend the Plaza Premium Aerotel Transit Hotel for those needing sleep and the Plaza Premium Lounge for relaxing away from the crowds. We took advantage of both during our 19-hour stay, as well as the free city tour!

Book flights at the best prices through Skyscanner.

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We recommend the Ceptics All-In-One International Travel Adapter. It works in over 200 countries and territories and can charge up to six devices at once.

Mission statement: Dreamstime

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