Hiking through New Zealand is one of the best ways to experience the country’s raw beauty. From lush native forests and volcanic craters to rugged coastal cliffs, you’ll find some of the world’s most diverse landscapes here.
I’ve spent the last nine months living in New Zealand – mostly in the North Island – and if I wasn’t into hiking before, I definitely am now. When so much natural beauty is right on your doorstep, it’s impossible not to be.
In this guide, I’ve gathered the best hikes in New Zealand’s North Island, divided by how much time you have. Whether you’re after a short scenic walk with the dog, a full-day adventure, or a mammoth multi-day trek, you’ll find the perfect trail here.
No matter your fitness level or travel plans, there’s a hike that will make you fall in love with the North Island’s wild landscapes. So, let’s dive into the best North Island hikes worth adding to your itinerary.
Read More: Best North Island Itinerary For Every Time Frame
Best Short North Island Hikes (Under 3 hours)
If you’re short on time but still want to experience the North Island’s natural beauty, these short hikes are perfect. They’re accessible, family-friendly, and packed with scenic highlights, from beaches to waterfalls to volcanic peaks.
Each of these North Island trails offers a quick escape into New Zealand’s wilderness without needing a full day.
1. Cathedral Cove: The Coromandel
Start Location: Either Hahei Visitor Carpark or 150 Lees Road Carpark.
Distance: 5km
Time: Around 2 hours
Elevation: 264m
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Out and Back
Best Time to Hike: Open year-round, but is best in summer or shoulder season; avoid after heavy rainfall due to increased risk of rockfall.
Cathedral Cove is one of the most iconic hikes in New Zealand, and a must-do hike on any Coromandel itinerary. This stunning bay is framed by white cliffs topped with lush native forest and turquoise water. The highlight has to be the iconic natural rock archway dividing the cove. You may actually recognise it from The Chronicles of Narnia films.
Whilst you can reach it by water taxi or kayak from Hahei, walking there is by far the best experience. Depending on your starting point, the trail winds through shady bush sections and along scenic clifftops with sweeping views of the Pacific.
I’d highly recommend the detour to McHand’s Bay Lookout for one of the best vantage points along the track. The turquoise waters and small rocky islands just off the shore are more reminiscent of Southeast Asia than New Zealand.
Pack a picnic and your swimsuit so you can spend some time relaxing on the beach before heading back.
Looking for more on the Coromandel? Check out my top things to do on the Coromandel Peninsula here
2. Mount Maunganui Summit Track: Bay of Plenty
Start Location: Mount Maunganui base.
Distance: 3.7km
Time: 1- 2 hours
Elevation: 209m
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Loop or Out and Back (Multiple trail options)
Best Time to Hike: Open year-round, try to go for sunrise or sunset.
Having spent a few months living in Mount Maunganui, this hike quickly became a favourite. Short but steep, it’s a rewarding climb that gets you sweating. But the panoramic views of the Mount and the endless coastline are absolutely worth it.
The Mount Maunganui Summit has several trail options, all well-formed with steps along the way. The climb is moderately challenging — steep in parts, but easy to follow. Along the trail, you pass sections of native bush and open ridges, making the hike varied and scenic.
From the summit, you’ll be treated to stunning views over the town, harbour, and surrounding coastline. If you’re an early riser, start about 45 minutes before sunrise to catch some amazing colours. Alternatively, try coming for sunset instead for a golden-hour view.
The Mount itself is an important part of Māori history and is also known as Mauao. According to legend, when the mountain was once nameless, it fell in love with Puwhenua, a beautiful hill covered in ferns and shrubs. But Puwhenua was already in love with another, and the mountain’s heartbreak shaped its current resting place. You can read the full legend on the Tauranga City Council website.
After descending, the nearby beaches are perfect for a well-earned swim. Or you can grab a coffee or snack at one of the cafés along Marine Parade.
4. Taranaki Falls Track: Tongariro National Park
Start Location: Whakapapa Village, 100 m below the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre on Ngauruhoe Place.
Distance: 6km
Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
Elevation: 143m
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trail Type: Loop
Best Time to Hike: Open year-round, but best during the summer months
When it comes to the Tongariro National Park, you’re Tongariro Crossing Track – a full day, challenging hike across a volcanic crater. However, there are lots of ways to explore the National Park without the full day commitment, and the Falls track is a favourite.
The trail loops through native beech forest and open tussocks, with views of Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Ruaephu along the way. You’ll follow old lava flows before reaching the trail’s highlight: Taranki Falls itself.
The 20 metre waterfall cascades over cliffs formed by cooled lava and looks like it comes from a split in the earth itself. New Zealand’s North Island has a lot of impressive waterfalls, but this has to be one of the best.
The trail itself is well-formed and suitable for most fitness levels, though there are a few gentle climbs. You can complete it in 1.5 – 2 hours at a relaxed pace, making it ideal if you’re exploring the park without committing to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
5. Blue Spring Te Waihou Walkway: Putaruru
Start Location: 372 Leslie Road, Tapapa or Whites Road, Putāruru.
Distance: 8.2km
Time: 2-2.5 hours
Elevation: 61m
Difficulty: East
Trail Type: Out and Back
Best Time to Hike: Open year-round
The Blue Spring Te Waihou Walkway is maybe the easiest yet intriguing walk on this list. Home to the clearest water in New Zealand, the track follows the Waihou River through farmland and native bush.
You’ll find plenty of spots to stop and take in the view, look out for trout swimming upstream and ducks bobbing along the water. The water is so clear that you can see every stone and plant flowing beneath the surface.
The trail is mostly flat and easy to follow, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. You can start from either Whites Road (State Highway 28) or Leslie Road, depending on how far you want to walk. The section from Leslie Road to the spring itself is shorter and ideal if you’re short on time.
However, as this track becomes more popular, parking has become more and more hectic. It’s best to get here early to miss the crowds and stress of fighting for a parking spot.
6: Mercer Bay Loop Track: Piha, Auckland
Start Location: Log Race Road, Piha 0772.
Distance: 2.1km
Time: Around 1 hour
Elevation: 175m
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trail Type: Loop
Best Time to Hike: Open year-round
The Mercer Bay Loop Track is one of the most spectacular coastal walks near Auckland. The trail follows clifftops high above the Tasman Sea, offering some of the best ocean views anywhere in the North Island.
Starting from Te Ahua Point car park, the track climbs gently through native bush before opening to breathtaking lookouts over sheer cliffs, black sand beaches, and wild surf below.
The loop is short but includes a few steep sections and steps, so expect a bit of a workout on the way back up. On a clear day, you can see all the way down the rugged West Coast, a truly classic New Zealand view. Try to time it for sunset, and you won’t regret it.
If you’re planning a trip out west, it’s easy to pair this with a visit to Piha Beach or Karekare Falls nearby. It’s a great half-day adventure from Auckland and one of the best short hikes in the North Island for big views with minimal effort.
7. Rangitoto Summit: Auckland
Start Location: Rangitoto Wharf ferry terminal.
Distance: 7km
Time: 2 hours
Elevation: 243m
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Out and Back
Best Time to Hike: Open year-round
Rangitoto Island is a perfect day trip from Auckland and one of its most unique hikes. Situated on a dormant volcano just a short ferry ride away, the Rangitoto Summit Track takes you through ancient lava fields and native pōhutukawa forests that feel miles away from the busy city.
The trail starts from Rangitoto Wharf, winding steadily uphill on a well-marked path. About halfway up, you’ll pass a short side track leading to lava caves, which you can explore with a torch (they’re a highlight for many hikers).
As you climb higher, the views open up, and the summit rewards you with a 360° panorama over the Hauraki Gulf, Auckland skyline, and neighbouring islands.
Despite the rocky ground, this hike is suitable for most fitness levels. Just bring sturdy shoes, water, and sun protection. There are no shops on the island, so pack everything you need for the day.
For the best experience, catch the first ferry from Auckland, enjoy your hike, and take time to explore the island before heading back.
Best Day Hikes in the North Island (4-8 hours)
For hikers who want a challenge with rewarding views, these North Island day hikes are the ones. These tracks combine challenge, stunning views, and unique landscapes of alpine craters and rainforest valleys. You’ll finish each hike feeling accomplished and inspired by the North Island’s diversity.
8. Wairere Falls Track: Waikato
Start Location: Goodwin Road, Te Aroha 3471.
Distance: 5km
Time: 3-4 hours
Elevation: 410m
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Trail Type: Out and Back
Best Time to Hike: Open year-round. Avoid after heavy rainfall due to increased risk of rockfall.
The Wairere Falls Track takes you to the tallest waterfall in New Zealand’s North Island. This dramatic 153-metre cascading waterfall plunges down over moss-covered cliffs in the Kaimai Ranges. It’s a steep and rocky trail, but the views make every step worthwhile.
The track begins with a gentle walk through lush native forest, following the Wairere Stream across bridges and past small waterfalls. After about 45 minutes, you’ll reach the first lookout, where you can see the waterfall tumbling down the cliff face.
This is a great turnaround point if you’re short on time or want to avoid the steep incline to the upper lookout. This section is steep with plenty of stairs and exposed roots. But after another 45 minutes of walking, you’ll stand right above the falls with sweeping views across the Waikato plains.
9: Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Tongariro National Park
Start Location: The easiest option is to park at the finish point (Ketetahi Carpark) and book a certified shuttle to the start point.
Distance: 20.2km one way
Time: 7-8 hours
Elevation: 1195m
Difficulty: Advanced
Trail Type: One way (book a shuttle to turn back to your start point).
Best Time to Hike: Best to do during the summer months. Check the weather forecast and avoid when there are high winds and/or rain. Avoid during winter due to snow, ice, avalanche risk and sub-zero temperatures.
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is New Zealand’s most famous day hike, so it hardly needs an introduction from me, but I had to include it. The trail leads you through an otherworldly volcanic landscape filled with emerald lakes, steaming vents, and rugged craters.
It’s part of the Tongariro National Park, a dual UNESCO World Heritage Site known for both its natural beauty and cultural significance to Māori. Plus, it was the filming location for Mordor in The Lord of the Rings, which is pretty cool for any fantasy nerds like me.
The hike is long and challenging, with steep climbs over the Red Crater and exposed alpine terrain. The weather can change rapidly, so pack layers and check forecasts before setting off. While demanding, the views from the summit ridge and across the shimmering Emerald Lakes make every step worthwhile.
Because the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a one-way hike, you’ll need to plan your transport. Most hikers park at the Ketetahi Carpark (finish point) and book a morning shuttle to the start at Mangatepopo for around $50 per person. This way, you can take your time on the trail without worrying about missing a pickup.
Several shuttle companies operate daily during the hiking season, and it’s best to book ahead. Parking at Mangatepopo is limited to four hours, so starting at Ketetahi is the easiest and most stress-free option.
10. Pinnacles (Kauaeranga Kauri ) Track: Coromandel
Start Location: End of Kauaeranga Valley Road.
Distance: 14 km
Time: 5-6 hours (or overnight if you stay at the Pinnacles hut).
Elevation: 775m
Difficulty: Hard
Trail Type: Out and Back
Best Time to Hike: Open year-round, but best during the spring and autumn months when it’s less hot but still dry.
The Pinnacles Hike was my favourite thing I did in the Coromandel. The trail is so diverse, and the views at the top are unlike anything I could imagine. You’ll begin by following along old packhorse routes previously used by the kauri loggers in the early 1900s, winding through lush native forest and crossing rivers (there are bridges, don’t worry).
About 2-2.5 hours into the hike, you’ll reach the Pinnacles Hut. One of the largest DOC huts in New Zealand, where you can stay overnight, just make sure to book in advance. However, if you’re just here for the day, take a quick rest, have a snack and then continue on to the final ascent.
The final climb up the steel ladders to the summit is thrilling, and you’re rewarded with sweeping 360° views across the Coromandel Ranges and out to the coast. If you decide to stay over, make the most of it and aim to be here for sunrise. You won’t regret the early morning.
11. Pouakai Tarns Track: Mount Taranaki
Start Location: Mangorei Road end.
Distance: 12km
Time: 5-6 hours
Elevation: 775m
Difficulty: Hard
Trail Type: Out and Back
Best Time to Hike: Open year-round. Best to visit in summer with low winds and no clouds to get a clear reflection of Mount Taranaki on the water.
The Pouakai Tarns Track is one of the most photogenic hikes in New Zealand, known for its perfect mirror reflection of Mount Taranaki on a calm day. The trail begins at the Egmont National Park Visitor Centre and takes you through dense native bush, over boardwalks, and up steep steps to the Pouakai Plateau.
Once you reach the tarns, you’ll understand why this hike is so iconic. The small alpine pools perfectly reflect the snow-capped cone of Taranaki, especially closer to sunrise or sunset when the light is a little softer.
The hike can be done as a day trip, but if you want to catch the best reflections and colours, consider staying overnight at Pouakai Hut, just a short walk from the tarns. The hut has limited spaces, so book in advance through the DOC.
When planning this hike, always check the weather; cloud cover can hide the mountain quickly, and wind will disrupt the water, so you won’t get that crystal clear reflection it’s so famous for.
12. Dukes Nose (Kaiaraara Rocks) Track: Whangaroa Harbour
Start Location: Campbell Road, Totara North.
Distance: 11km
Time: 4-4.5 hours
Elevation: 538m
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard (There is a rock scramble at the end).
Trail Type: Out and Back
Best Time to Hike: Open year-round, but best when the weather is good.
The Duke’s Nose track is one of the most underrated North Island hikes. It combines lush native bush, peaceful trails, the estuary, and one of the most dramatic viewpoints in the country.
Starting from Campbell Road, the track follows the Wairakau Stream through regenerating forest and small stream crossings. Yes, your shoes may get a little wet and muddy.
Near the end of the hike, you’ll spot the turning to Lane Cove Hut, a lovely spot to rest or even stay overnight. From there, the trail climbs slightly before you reach the Dukes Nose (Kaiaraara Rocks) itself, and then the real fun begins.
To reach the viewpoint, there is a single pole attached to the rocks, which you can use to scramble up to the top. It’s maybe only 30-40m long, but if you’re not a natural climber like me, it’s pretty exhilarating.
Once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with a jaw-dropping view over Whangaroa Harbour’s emerald bays and jagged cliffs, easily one of the best panoramas in Northland.
If you are short on time, try St Paul’s Rock Track instead. Still on Whangaroa Harbour but just 720 meters long, this track gives you all the views with much less commitment.
Either way, if you’re planning a road trip from Auckland to Cape Reinga, you need to add a stop here to your itinerary.
13. Lake Waikaremoana (One-day Section from Onepoto to Panekire Hut and Back): Te Urewera
Start Location: Onepoto or Hopuruahine.
Distance: 10-15km, depending on the section.
Time: 8-10 hours
Elevation: 900m
Difficulty: Hard
Trail Type: Out and Back
Best Time to Hike: Open year-round, aim for October to April.
Lake Waikaremoana is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, but the full 44km track is a pretty big commitment. Instead, you can opt to spend the day hiking just one section, which will give you a pretty incredible taste of Te Urewera’s wild beauty.
This area is co-managed by Tūhoe iwi and offers a deep sense of connection to nature and Māori culture.
The Panekire Bluff section is the most popular one-day hike, offering a mix of lush rainforest, tranquil lake views, and sweeping panoramas from the bluff itself. The return hike from Onepoto to Panekire Hut is around 18km, takes around 8-10 hours and is pretty challenging.
However, you’ll wander through ancient beech and rimu forest, listening to native birdsong before reaching viewpoints that make the climb worthwhile.
The track is well-marked but can be muddy and steep in parts, so good footwear is a must. You’ll also want to check the weather and track updates before you go, as access and conditions can vary due to the remote location.
14. Mount Tarawera Guided Hike: Rotorua
Note: Mount Tarawera is only accessible via a guided tour. The experience includes 4WD transport to the summit and a hike along the crater’s edge with stunning panoramic views.
Distance: Approx. 4 km walking portion (after 4-WD/vehicle ride to crater edge)
Time: Half-day guided tour (Around 4.5 hours)
Mount Tarawera offers one of the most unique hiking experiences on the North Island as you walk along the rim of an active volcano that last erupted in 1886. The explosion reshaped the entire landscape, creating dramatic craters, ridges, and coloured ash slopes.
Because the mountain is on private land, the only way to hike Mount Tarawera is with a guided tour. Most trips depart from Rotorua and take you up a 4WD track before beginning the hike along the crater’s edge.
The views stretch across Lakes Tarawera and Rotomahana, and you’ll even get the chance to run down into the volcanic crater, which isn’t something a lot of people can say they’ve done.
The track is moderately challenging due to loose scree and steep sections, but it’s suitable for most hikers with a basic level of fitness. The guides share fascinating insights about Tarawera’s eruption, Māori legends, and the local geology, making it as educational as it is scenic.
Despite the cost, this is easily one of the best guided hikes in New Zealand’s North Island.
Best Multi-Day Hikes in the North Island
If you’re looking for the ultimate achievement and a true backcountry adventure, these multi-day hikes showcase the North Island at its wildest. These trails take you deep into national parks, along volcanic ridges, and beside tranquil lakes.
With huts or campsites along the way, they’re perfect for those who want to immerse themselves fully in nature.
15. Tongariro Northern Circuit: Tongariro National Park
Start Location: Whakapapa Village.
Distance: 43km
Time: 3-4 days
Elevation: 1,594m
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Trail Type: Loop
Best Time to Hike: November to April is the safest alpine conditions
The Tongariro Northern Circuit is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks and one of the most spectacular multi-day hikes on the North Island. Circling the base of Mount Ngauruhoe (also known as Mount Doom from The Lord of the Rings), the track passes through volcanic landscapes, emerald lakes, alpine meadows, and steaming vents, all within the UNESCO-listed Tongariro National Park.
The circuit shares part of its route with the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, but continuing beyond the day-hike section rewards you with quieter trails and even more dramatic scenery. You’ll pass by Emerald Lakes, the Otureke Stream, and the Mangatepopo and Waihohonu Huts, each offering incredible overnight views.
The terrain is varied, with steep climbs, loose volcanic rock, and exposed ridgelines, so good fitness and preparation are essential. Weather in the park can change quickly, even in summer, so always check the MetService alpine forecast before setting out.
16. Lake Waikaremoana Track: Te Urewera
Start Location: Onepoto or Hopuruahine (can be hiked in either direction).
Distance: 46km
Time: 3-4 days
Elevation: 2,312m
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Point-to-point
Best Time to Hike: October to April, when the months are warmer and less chance of track closures
The Lake Waikaremoana Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks and the premier multi-day hike in Te Urewera, a protected area returned to Tūhoe guardianship. The trail follows the forested shores of Lake Waikaremoana, meaning “sea of rippling waters,” and offers a quieter, more wilderness-focused experience than many other Great Walks.
You’ll climb to Panekire Bluff for sweeping views over the lake, wander through lush rainforest, cross ancient podocarp forests, and spend nights beside peaceful bays that feel completely off-grid. Highlights include the Panekire Range ridgeline, Korokoro Falls, and the secluded beaches around Waiharuru Hut.
The terrain is varied but manageable, with the steepest climb at the beginning if you start from Onepoto. Much of the track wanders through dense forest and muddy sections, so sturdy footwear is important. Because this region receives frequent rain, always check for weather warnings or track alerts before hiking and be prepared for remote conditions with limited phone signal.
17. Timber Trail: Pureora Forest Park
Start Location: Pureora Village.
Distance: 82km
Time: 2-3 days
Elevation: 600m
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Point-to-point
Best Time to Hike: October to May for dry and mild conditions
The Timber Trail is one of the best ways to experience Pureora Forest Park. You follow old tramlines, wander through dense native bush, and cross huge suspension bridges that swing gently above the valleys. It feels remote, peaceful, and perfect if you want a break from the busy tourist spots.
You can ride the full 85 km trail in two or three days, with most people choosing to stop halfway in Piropiro. The track sits at an easy-to-moderate level, but the distance makes it feel like a real adventure. You’ll pass towering podocarp trees, quiet forest clearings, and old logging relics that tell the area’s story.
Shuttles run between each end of the trail, which takes the stress out of planning. Pack warm layers and plenty of food because the weather changes fast, and facilities are sparse. If you want a trip that mixes nature, history, and a real sense of wilderness, this trail delivers.
18: Tararua Ranges Circuit: Wellington Region
Start Location: Holdsworth Road end.
Distance: 60-80km depending on route
Time: 3-5 days
Elevation: 5052m
Difficulty: Expert
Trail Type: Loop
Best Time to Hike: December to March for the best weather
The Tararua Ranges Circuit is one of the most challenging yet rewarding multi-day hikes in the North Island, known for rugged terrain, steep ascents, and unpredictable alpine weather. Located just north of Wellington, the Tararuas are often used by trampers training for South Island alpine routes, so it’s definitely not for the faint-hearted.
Most people start from Holdsworth Road End, combining the Mount Holdsworth Track, Jumbo Hut, and Powell Hut into a rewarding circuit. You’ll climb through dense beech forest and subalpine scrub before reaching the exposed ridgelines that the Tararuas are famous for.
On clear days, you’ll be treated to panoramic views stretching across the Wairarapa Valley and out towards the Kapiti Coast.
This hike is physically demanding, with long climbs, potentially strong winds, and changeable conditions, so it’s best for experienced hikers with solid navigation skills. Huts are dotted along the route, but you’ll need to plan your itinerary and carry enough supplies for all weather scenarios.
Planning your New Zealand Hiking Adventure
Best time to hike in the North Island (spring–autumn).
The best time for hiking in New Zealand’s North Island is from spring to autumn (October–April). During these months, you’ll get longer daylight hours, milder temperatures, and more stable weather.
Summer (December–February) brings warm, sunny days, though it’s also the hottest and busiest time on popular tracks like Tongariro. For fewer crowds and crisp, clear conditions, spring and autumn are fantastic alternatives.
Winter hiking is possible on lower trails but comes with cold temperatures and, in alpine areas, snow and ice, so they should only be attempted by people with the expertise to tackle these conditions.
DOC resources, trail conditions, and permits.
Before setting out, always check the Department of Conservation (DOC) website for up-to-date trail information, hut availability, and track alerts. DOC also provides maps, packing lists, and safety tips for each hike.
Some trails, especially Great Walks like the Tongariro Northern Circuit, require bookings for huts or campsites. For hikes in areas such as Te Urewera, you’ll need to go through the Tūhoe-managed booking system instead of DOC. Always check local guidelines to avoid surprises on the day.
Transport, shuttle services, and packing essentials.
Some of the best North Island hikes, like the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or Timber Trail, are one-way tracks. In these cases, you’ll need to book a shuttle service in advance to get back to your starting point. Major hubs like Taupō, National Park Village, and Rotorua all offer these connections.
When it comes to gear, pack for four seasons in a day. The weather in New Zealand can change quickly, even in summer. Essentials include a waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking shoes, snacks, a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and warm layers. For multi-day hikes, add a lightweight stove, sleeping bag, and headlamp.
Tips for hiking responsibly and respecting Māori land
Many of the trails in New Zealand, especially in the North Island, cross areas of deep cultural significance to Māori iwi (tribes). Always follow local signs and guidance, stay on marked trails, and avoid entering sacred areas or touching carvings and landmarks.
Follow the Leave No Trace principles: pack out all rubbish, stay on designated paths, and respect wildlife.
By hiking respectfully and responsibly, you’ll not only help protect these landscapes but also honour the connection between people and place that makes New Zealand so special.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best North Island Hikes for You
From short, scenic walks to challenging multi-day adventures, the North Island of New Zealand has a hike for every walker. Whether you’re seeking sweeping coastal views, volcanic landscapes, or tranquil forest trails, these walks showcase the island’s incredible diversity and natural beauty.
No matter your fitness level or timeframe, adding even one of these hikes to your itinerary will make your trip to New Zealand unforgettable. So lace up your boots, pack your gear, and get ready to fall in love with the North Island, one step at a time.
