The Best Hikes on the North Island of New Zealand
No Bots, Just Boots on the Ground
Get some good exercise, breathe in the fresh air and soak in the scenery on one of these North Island walks.
That right, we’ve put together a whopping 50 best hikes on the North Island so there’s no excuse not to get out there.
From rambles over volcanoes to strolls by the beach, there’s something for all interests and fitness levels.
Start planning your outing with the list of North Island hikes below.
And for our South Island equivalents, see The Top 50 South Island Walks.
Side note: Our hiking recommendations are from writers who’ve experienced New Zealand firsthand – no AI-generated fluff here! Scroll down to learn more about us.
Table of Contents
1. Marokopa Falls
A short road trip from Waitomo, Marokopa Falls is one of the North Island’s most picturesque waterfalls.
The easy track leads through lush native forest to a viewing platform where you can witness the Marokopa River cascading 35 m (115 ft) over undercut greywacke rock into a deep pool below.
Combine the walk with the others listed in the 5 Best Walks in Waitomo.
Time: 20 mins return / Distance: 600 m (656 yards) / Location: Waitomo, Waikato
2. Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway
A fun and historic-themed adventure awaits at Karangahake Gorge.
Situated at the base of the Coromandel Range, the walkway follows the old railway line between Paeroa and Waihi, showcasing impressive remains from the mining and railway eras in a stunning natural gorge setting.
Explore two steel truss bridges and wander through a one-kilometre rail tunnel on the shorter Rail Tunnel Loop (45 minutes return), or tackle the full Historic Walkway (four hours return) which leads alongside the Ohinemuri River, passing through the impressive Victoria Battery complex before reaching Waikino Station where you can grab a bite at the café or enjoy train rides.
Time: 45 mins return or 4 hrs return / Distance: 2.5 km (1.6 mi) or 4.3 km (2.7 mi) / Location: Paeroa, North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com3. Dawson Falls and Wilkies Pools Loop
Well worth seeking out in Taranaki, the 1 hr 20 mins Wilkies Pools Loop takes you through the gangly moss-covered trees of the “goblin forest” to Wilkies Pools.
The first 900 m (984 yards) of the track is suitable for wheelchairs and buggies, winding through the enchanting kamahi forest before crossing a bridge over the Kapuni Stream.
From there, it’s a 20-minute stroll to reach the small lava-formed pools, scoured from 20,000-year-old lava and named after the Wilkies brothers who farmed locally.
Combine the trail with the one-hour Kapauni Loop Track to see the picturesque Dawson Falls.
Time: 1 hr 20 mins and 1-hour loops / Distance: 1.4 km (0.87 mi) and 1.9 km (1.2 mi) / Location: Egmont National Park, North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com4. Mangawhero Forest Walk
Walk among forest giants, such as rimu, mataī and kahikatea, on the lower slopes of Mt Ruapehu.
The Mangawhero Forest Walk begins at the same trailhead as the Rimu Walk, crossing the Mangawhero River before leading into a forest of kāmahi, broadleaf and five finger.
Towering 30 m (98 ft) above you, the forest canopy creates a peaceful atmosphere perfect for families. The track passes through a volcanic crater and, at its highest point, crosses Ohakune Mountain Road.
See the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Ohakune for more walks.
Time: 1 hr loop / Distance: 3 km (1.9 mi) / Location: Ohakune, Manawatu-Whanganui
5. Manginangina Kauri Walk
An easy one for families and suitable for wheelchairs, the Manginangina Kauri Walk displays New Zealand’s largest trees along a fully boarded trail.
Kids of all ages will be in awe of the towering kauri trees as the boardwalk winds through mature kauri stands, swamp forest and native vegetation.
The buggy-friendly path features interpretive panels to help you understand this special forest ecosystem, while a large viewing area set within a kauri grove provides the perfect spot to sit and marvel at these ancient giants.
Check out more kauri forests to walk through in the 10 Kauri Forests in New Zealand.
Time: 15 mins / Distance: 350 m (383 yards) / Location: Kerikeri, North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com6. Mt Karioi Track
While there are two tracks to the summit of Mt Karioi in Raglan, we recommend the Mt Karioi Track for the views along the way despite the longer length and difficulty.
Climb to the top of this ancient volcano for spectacular views, or stop at a roadside viewing platform above Te Toto, where you can see the three natural coastal amphitheatres that were once the site of extensive Māori gardens.
Remnants of stone rows that would have outlined garden plots can still be seen in places, as well as two small pā, storage pits and terraces.
Time: 3 hrs-3 hrs 30 mins one way / Distance: 7.4 km (4.6 mi) / Location: Raglan, Waikato
© Unsplash7. Mt Urchin Track
This steep climb in the Kaimanawa Ranges treats hikers to an easily accessible wilderness experience through beautiful beech forest.
The real reward comes at the summit, where you’ll discover a genuine alpine environment with sweeping views across Lake Taupō and the volcanic trio of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe.
Check out more walks nearby in the 15 Best Walks in Tūrangi.
Time: 3-4 hrs return / Distance: 6.6 km (4.1 mi) / Location: Turangi, North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com8. Smugglers Cove Loop Track
Soak up the stunning coastal views of the Whangarei Heads and check out the World War II gun emplacements on the easy Smugglers Bay Loop Walk.
With coastal forest framing spectacular views and historic WWII relics scattered along the way, there’s plenty to keep the whole family engaged on this short, easy ramble.
Time: 1 hr 30 mins loop / Distance: 3 km (1.9 mi) / Location: Whangarei, Northland
© Northland Inc9. Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Spend the day trekking over the volcanic terrain of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing with emerald lakes, craters and steaming vents.
The walk can be done independently between November and May, but track bookings and transport need to be arranged for this one-way hike.
Plan your hike using our Tongariro Crossing Accommodation and Transport Guide.
Time: 6-8 hours one way / Distance: 19.4 km (12 mi) / Location: Tongariro National Park, North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com10. Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway
A short walk to admire the North Island’s coastal beauty, the Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway offers just the right balance of coastal forest, unfolding views, beaches and crystal clear waters.
The track journeys from the shoreline to dramatic clifftops, revealing spectacular coastal panoramas stretching both north and south, with offshore islands dotting the horizon.
As part of Te Araroa Trail, this well-maintained path is perfect for those seeking sweeping ocean vistas without committing to a multi-day trek.
Time: 2-3 hrs return / Distance: 9 km (5.6 mi) / Location: Waipu, North Island
© Unsplash11. Manawatu Gorge Tawa Loop Track
Manawatu Gorge might have a short walk and a long hike to choose from, but the Tawa Loop Track provides a happy medium meandering through the forest on a 2-hour loop.
Find lookouts over the river gorge and a Māori statue part-way through.
Check out more walks nearby in the 25 Best Hikes Around Palmerston North.
Time: 2-hr loop / Distance: 4.1 km (2.5 mi) / Location: Ashhurst, North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com12. Orokawa Bay Walks
There are various walks to enjoy from the northern end of Waihi Beach starting with the Waihi Beach to Orokawa Bay walk (45 mins one-way).
Once you reach the picturesque bay, we recommend taking the William Wright Falls track (40 mins one way).
Return the same way or continue to Ngatitangata Road for a four-hour one-way trip.
Time: 45 mins to 4 hours one way / Distance: 1.3 km (0.8 mi) to 9 km (5.6 mi) / Location: Waihi, Bay of Plenty
© Department of Conservation Tauranga - Tourism Bay of Plenty13. Muriwai Walk
Enjoy expansive ocean views and undulating pastures on this track on the northern tip of the Coromandel Peninsula.
The Muriwai Walk starts from Muriwai Hilltop car park beyond Port Jackson campsite, following a benched farm track along the ridge towards Wharekaiatua Pa.
The track also features a historic Māori pā site, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
See more walks in the 15 Best Hikes in The Coromandel.
Time: 2-hr loop / Distance: 6 km (3.7 mi) / Location: Coromandel, Waikato
© NZPocketGuide.com14. Whitecliffs Walkway
Walk over clifftops through coastal forest from Pukearuhe to the Wai Pingao Stream.
This dramatic walkway follows the Kapuni to Auckland gas pipeline route for 11 km, where the pipeline’s construction opened up access to the region’s stunning forest and coastal scenery.
Most of the track crosses private farmland, so be respectful as you traverse the terrain.
The return trip can be along the beach with the white cliffs towering above.
Time: 3-4 hrs loop / Distance: 6.5 km (4 mi) / Location: Pukearuhe, Taranaki
© NZPocketGuide.com15. Ngā Tapuwae o Toi
An interesting way to see Whakatane, the Ngā Tapuwae o Toi or “Footprints of Toi” is a walk linking a series of short walks in Whakatane and Ohope.
See historic pa sites, forests with kiwi birds, beaches, views of White and Whale (Moutohorā) islands and much more.
Learn more in the 10 Best Walks in Whakatane.
Time: 7 hrs loop / Distance: 16 km (9.9 miles) / Location: Whakatane, Bay of Plenty
© Tourism Bay of Plenty16. Taranaki Falls Walk
Not just a walk to the magnificent 20m (65ft) Taranaki Falls, the Taranaki Falls Walk features forest, ancient lava flows and views of the volcanoes Mt Ruapehu and Mt Ngauruhoe on a clear day.
We’re big fans of this loop track, as we’ve seen for ourselves how it showcases some of the best scenery in Tongariro National Park.
Combine this New Zealand walk with others in the 15 Best Walks Around Waimarino (National Park Village) & Whakapapa Village.
Time: 2-hour loop / Distance: 6 km (3.7 mi) / Location: Tongariro National Park, North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com17. Mangapohue Natural Bridge Walk
Several short walks to spectacular limestone features can be found on the road from Waitomo to the coast, such as the 17 m (56 ft)-high arch Mangapohue Natural Bridge.
During our last trip, we discovered it’s a stroller-friendly track down a river gorge to the bridge, then returning over farmland.
Time: 20 mins loop / Distance: 700 m (766 yards) / Location: Waitomo, North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com18. Okere Falls Track
Follow this well-maintained bushwalk to a lookout over Okere Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world.
Along the way, viewing platforms offer fantastic views of white water rafters tackling the Kaituna River, while information panels describe the area’s natural and human history.
Kids will love spotting geocaches and glow worms after dark, and the trout pool near the main carpark is perfect for watching fish swim against the current.
A grassy picnic area with public toilets makes this an ideal family-friendly stop.
It’s one of the 15 Must-Do Walks in Rotorua.
Time: 30 mins one way / Distance: 1.2 km (0.7 mi) / Location: Rotorua, North Island
© Rafting Rotorua - Destination Rotorua19. Whataroa Falls
Speaking of waterfalls, a good one near Tauranga is Whataroa Falls (one hour one way), found in the Otanewainuku Forest.
This trail takes you through stands of majestic rimu trees before reaching a popular swimming hole and picnic spot at the falls.
For shorter walks, the forest also offers the Rimu Loop Walk (45 mins return), where you can wander among ancient rimu giants, and the Lookout Track (1 hr 30 mins return) for rewarding views over the Bay of Plenty.
Time: 1 hr one way to 4 hrs return / Distance: 2.5 km (1.6 mi) one way to 10 km (6.2 mi) return / Location: Te Puke, Bay of Plenty
© Tourism Bay of Plenty20. Orongorongo Track
Staying in Wellington? A popular day trip is the Orongorongo Track in the Remutaka Forest Park.
This easy-grade walk takes you through diverse forest types on your journey to the Ōrongorongo Valley.
Keep an eye out for the magnificent northern rātā trees towering above the canopy near the track’s highest point.
At the end of the track, you’ll find swimming holes at Tūrere Stream, perfect for a refreshing dip after your walk.
Time: 2 hrs one way / Distance: 5.2 km (3.2 mi) / Location: Kapiti, North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com21. Mangakara Nature Walk
Learn about New Zealand’s native trees on this example of a fantastic nature walk on the North Island.
The Mangakara Nature Walk winds through ancient forest with large rimu, kahikatea, tawa, pukatea and kohekohe before reaching the beautiful Mangakara Stream and looping back.
Numbered posts mark points of interest along the way, while illustrated signs help you identify native trees and learn about this special ecosystem, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
Time: 1 hr loop / Distance: 1.8 km (1.1 mi) / Location: Pirongia, Waikato
© Hamilton - Waikato Tourism22. Huka Falls Walks
There are two ways to experience Huka Falls and the views of its tumultuous rapids from the walkways.
The short way is parking at the Huka Falls car park and viewing the falls from multiple lookouts on both sides of the river.
Alternatively, enjoy the 1 hr 30 mins walk from Spa Park where you can also bathe in the hot pools of Otumuheke Stream.
See more of the 10 Best Walks in Taupo.
Time: 10 mins to 1 hr 30 mins one way / Distance: 167 m (183 yards) to 3 km (1.9 mi) / Location: Taupo, Waikato
© NZPocketGuide.com23. Limestone Creek
A real hidden gem, Limestone Creek might be a short walk but there are lots to see. This naturally formed gully adventure takes you through stunning caves where glowworms twinkle overhead, along with towering walls draped in lush moss, wild ferns and orchids.
Be prepared to get your feet wet as you’ll cross and travel up streams along the way. The main cave sits about 80 m (87 yards) from the bottom of the hill, where glowworms can be spotted during the day but shine brightest at dusk or night.
Learn more about Limestone Creek in the 5 Best Things to Do in Apiti.
Time: 10-20 mins / Distance: 600 m (656 yards) / Location: Apiti, Manawatu-Whanganui
© ManawatuNZ.co.nz24. Rangitoto Summit Track
Take a ferry from Auckland city centre to hike the Rangitoto Summit Track.
Cross boardwalks over lava fields and follow trails through New Zealand’s largest pohutukawa forest to the island’s crater summit.
It’s also worth taking the 30-minute detour to scramble through the lava caves.
Time: 2 hours return / Distance: 7 km (4.3 mi) / Location: Auckland, North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com25. Kauaeranga Kauri Trail (Pinnacles Walk)
Either a full-day or overnight hike, The Pinnacles Walk features glorious views over the Coromandel Peninsula from the summit lookout at 759 m.
This popular trail follows an historic packhorse route once used by kauri bushmen in the 1920s, leading you through native forest to Pinnacles Hut where you can stay overnight to catch the sunrise from the top.
Learn more in the 15 Best Hikes in The Coromandel.
Time: 3-4 hrs one-way / Distance: 7 km (4.3 mi) / Location: Thames, North Island
© Unsplash26. Aotea Track
Escape to Great Barrier Island and experience this piece of paradise on the Aotea Track.
The multi-day hike takes you through the forest, over hilltops and to hot springs.
See more walks in the 15 Best Hikes on Great Barrier Island.
Time: 2-3 days / Distance: 25 km (15.5 mi) / Location: Auckland (Hauraki Gulf), North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com27. Cape Brett Walkway
Either an overnight tramp or a full-day mission with a water taxi return, the Cape Brett Walkway features dramatic coastal views and gnarly cliff drop-offs along the track.
The 16 km (10 mi) route traverses rugged terrain through native and regenerating bush.
A side-track down to Deep Water Cove (one hour return) offers a refreshing swim and snorkel opportunity. Beyond Deep Water Cove, you can spot abundant fish and bird life, often dolphins and seals come close to shore.
The final stretch to the lighthouse takes about two to three hours and rewards your effort with outstanding views of the outer Bay of Islands, north to the Cavalli Islands and south to Whangaruru and the Poor Knights Islands.
Time: 8 hrs one way / Distance: 16 km (10 mi) / Location: Russell, Northland
© NZPocketGuide.com28. Kerikeri River Track and Rainbow Falls
Walk alongside the Kerikeri River between the historic Stone Store and Kemp House to Rainbow Falls.
You’ll also see the remains of the historic Kerikeri hydroelectric station.
Time: 1 hr 30 mins one way / Distance: 3.5 km (2.2 miles) / Location: Kerikeri, Northland
29. Wenderholm Perimeter Track
A popular walk in the Auckland region, the Wenderholm Perimeter Track takes you over historic pā sites through a mix of trees and open hilltops to soak in the coast and estuary views.
Learn about more places to walk in Auckland in the 20 Auckland Parks You Can’t Miss.
Time: 1 hr 30 mins loop / Distance: 4.6 km (2.9 mi) / Location: Waiwera, Auckland
© Unsplash30. Te Whara Track
For a full-day mission on the Whangarei Heads, take the Te Whara Track.
Follow this old Māori trail as it climbs through some of the finest coastal forest on the North Island before rewarding you with spectacular 360-degree panoramas of the Whangarei coast and outer islands.
This challenging walk is part of Te Araroa Trail, allowing you to truly walk in the footsteps of Northland’s Māori ancestors.
Time: 5-6 hrs one way / Distance: 7.5 km (4.7 mi) / Location: Whangarei, Northland
© Northland Inc31. Cathedral Cove
One of the top-visited sights on the North Island, Cathedral Cove is famous for its white cliffs arching over the beach.
The walk is an easy one to do. Note that parking is not permitted where the track officially starts at Grange Road. Paid car parking is available at Cathedral Cove Adventures, 150 Lees Road, Hahei.
Time: 1 hr 30 mins / Distance: 2.5 km (1.6 mi) or 3.5 km (2.2 mi) / Location: Hahei, North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com32. Urupukapuka Island Walk
Take the ferry from Paihia to reach the trails of Urupukapuka Island.
The complete Urupukapuka Island Walk is designed in a clockwise direction and can be joined at most of the larger bays.
Following the outer edge of the island, the track weaves through native and regenerating bush teeming with birdlife, along pristine beaches and beside dramatic steep cliffs to open hilltops offering outstanding views of the Bay of Islands.
Along the way, you’ll encounter various archaeological features that hint at the island’s rich history.
Time: 5 hrs loop / Distance: 7.3 km (4.5 mi) / Location: Urupukapuka Island, Northland
© NZPocketGuide.com33. Coast to Coast Walkway
See the highlights of Auckland City on the Coast to Coast Walkway.
Walk from Waitematā to Manukau passing some of the city’s heritage buildings, as well as through the Auckland Domain and the volcanic cones of Mt Eden and One Tree Hill.
Time: 4 hrs / Distance: 16 km (9.9 mi) / Location: Auckland City, Auckland
© NZPocketGuide.com34. Cape Kidnappers
At low tide, follow the beach under the steep cliffs of Cape Kidnappers, displaying faultlines and fossils.
The end of the route rewards you with a close encounter with the world’s largest mainland gannet colony.
Having tried it ourselves, we can’t get enough of the breathtaking coastal scenery along the way.
See more 10 Best Walks in Hawke’s Bay.
Time: 5 hrs return / Distance: 19 km (11.8 miles) / Location: Hastings, North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com35. Cooks Cove Walkway
Hike up to a viewpoint of the weather-beaten Mitre Rocks and Pourewa Island before descending to Cooks Cove with a “hole-in-the-wall”.
Note that the track is closed during the lambing season (August to October).
See more walks like this in the 10 Best Walks Along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Time: 2 hrs 30 mins return / Distance: 5.8 km (3.6 mi) / Location: Tolaga Bay, Gisborne
© NZPocketGuide.com36. Mt Te Aroha
Starting from the geothermal park in Te Aroha, the Te Aroha Summit Track is a steep but rewarding climb that ascends almost 1 km from the town to the peak of Mt Te Aroha.
At the top, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty, with Ruapehu, Ngāuruhoe and Taranaki visible on clear days.
Time: 3 hrs one way / Distance: 3.9 km (2.4 mi) / Location: Te Aroha, Waikato
© NZPocketGuide.com37. Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk
Classed as a “New Zealand Great Walk“, the Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk is one of the North Island’s most remote multi-day hikes.
Enjoy a backcountry experience in lush forest with waterfalls, lake views and Māori history.
According to Ngāi Tūhoe (the custodians of Te Urewera), trail conditions are ever-changing. Please check their website for updates.
See more walks nearby in the 15 Best Lake Waikaremoana Walks.
Time: 3-4 days / Distance: 46 km (29 mi) / Location: Te Urewera, Gisborne/Bay of Plenty
© NZPocketGuide.com38. Tarawera Trail
Take the one-way Tarawera Trail through the forest on the shores of Lake Tarawera.
The trail ends at Te Rata Bay, where a campsite and hot springs meet the lake. Book a water taxi with Totally Tarawera to return.
We personally love the serene atmosphere of this hidden gem. Plus, plan more hikes in the area using the 10 Must-Do Walks in Rotorua.
Time: 5-6 hrs one way / Distance: 15 km (9.3 mi) / Location: Rotorua, North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com39. Wellington Southern Walkway
Yes, you can even hike in the city! Walk from coast to coast along Wellington‘s Town Belt on the Southern Walkway.
It’s all about the views on this walk, which include those of the cityscape, Mt Victoria, Oriental Bay and Island Bay.
Choose from more walks nearby in the 10 Best Walks in Wellington.
Time: 4-5 hrs one way / Distance: 10.7 km (6.6 mi) / Location: Wellington City, North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com40. Te Mata Peak
Get some of the best views in the Hawke’s Bay region from the top of the 399 m (1,309 ft) Te Mata Peak.
In fact, the whole area is a park with both mountain biking and walking trails to embrace the enchanting countryside scenery and exotic forest.
There are five walking trails, ranging from a 40-minute loop on the Piwakawaka Track to the 2 hrs 15 mins Giant Circuit.
Time: 40 mins-2 hrs 15 mins loop / Distance: 1.3-5.5 km (0.8-3.4 mi) / Location: Tuki Tuki, North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com41. Pouakai Circuit
For a spectacular multi-day hike on the North Island, check out the Pouakai Circuit.
This premier tramp takes you through diverse volcanic terrain, from native forest and alpine tussock fields to the unique Ahukawakawa swamp.
Along the way, you’ll witness dramatic geological features including the active erosion scar of Boomerang Slip, the towering Dieffenbach Cliffs and the red waters of Kōkōwai Stream, stained by manganese oxide.
Side trips include the mighty Te Rere-o-Tahurangi Falls cascading over ancient lava flows, and Pouākai Trig offering stunning views of the Taranaki coastline and the mountains of the Central Plateau.
Time: 2-3 days loop / Distance: 25 km (15.5 mi) / Location: Egmont National Park, North Island
© Unsplash42. Redwood Memorial Grove Track
One of the many walks and bike trails in Rotorua’s Whakarewarewa Forest, also known as The Redwoods, the Redwood Memorial Grove Track is a lovely little loop track that gives you a taste of these magnificent giants.
The mostly flat terrain with only small inclines makes this walk suitable for all ages and fitness levels. You’ll enjoy strolling close to the towering Californian redwoods and native fern trees that line this accessible trail.
Time: 30 mins return / Distance: 2 km (1.2 mi) / Location: Rotorua, Bay of Plenty
© NZPocketGuide.com43. Cape Reinga Lighthouse
Dubbed as the top of the North Island (although it’s not quite the northernmost point), the Cape Reinga Lighthouse walk (also called Te Rerenga Wairua Lighthouse) is accessed on an easy stroller and wheelchair-friendly track with some slightly steep sections.
The short stroll offers outstanding panoramic views where you can witness the immense power of two mighty oceans merging offshore, the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean meet in a foaming swell of broken water over the Columbia Bank. At times, the churning waves erupt in explosions of spray and spume.
On a clear day you might be lucky enough to see the Three Kings Islands on the distant horizon.
Time: 10 mins one way / Distance: 300 m (328 yards) / Location: Cape Reinga, Northland
© NZPocketGuide.com44. Red Rocks Coastal Walk
One of Wellington‘s most popular half-day walks, the Red Rocks Coastal Walk follows the region’s wildest southern coastline where you might spot New Zealand fur seals (best between May and October).
This easy, flat trail takes you past fascinating geology formed about 200 million years ago, ancient volcanic pillow lava embedded in greywacke and red siltstone creating the distinctive red rocks of national significance.
You’ll pass historic baches from the early 1900s before reaching Devil’s Gate at Sinclair Head, with views stretching to the South Island on clear days.
Time: 2-3 hrs return / Distance: 7.4 km (4.6 mi) / Location: Ōwhiro Bay, Wellington City, Wellington
© Unsplash45. Lake Rotopounamu
Lake Rotopounamu is a stunning way to break up the journey when travelling through the central North Island.
Walk around the perimeter of the lake through a dense forest alive with birdsong.
Find more walks nearby in the 10 Best Walks in Tūrangi.
Time: 2-hr loop / Distance: 5 km (3.1 mi) / Location: Tūrangi, Waikato
© NZPocketGuide.com46. Te Henga Walkway
One of the best half-day or full-day hikes in Auckland, the Te Henga Walkway takes hikers along the rugged west coast from Te Henga (Bethells Beach) to Muriwai Beach.
Either walk a 1 hr 20 mins section from Bethells Road to O’Neill Bay and back along Bethells Beach or continue all the way to Muriwai for the full 3 hrs 20 mins walk.
Opposite the start of the Te Henga Walkway from Bethells Beach is the car park for the Lake Wainamu Walk (1 hr 30 mins loop), which is another worthwhile walk in Auckland.
Time: 1 hr 20 mins-3 hrs 20 mins one way / Distance: 3-8 km (1.9-5 mi) / Location: Waitakere, North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com47. The Mount (Mauao) Summit Walk [Temporarily Closed]
[Update: The Mauao Summit Walk is temporarily closed. Updates can be found on the Tauranga City Council website.]
Walk up the extinct volcano of Mauao, isolated at the end of Mt Maunganui’s beaches.
You’ll get expansive views of Tauranga city, the Bay of Plenty and the Pacific Ocean.
Learn more about the trail in the 20 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Tauranga.
Time: 30-45 mins one way / Distance: 3.4 km (2.1 mi) / Location: Tauranga, North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com48. Deliverance Cove Track to Castlepoint [Temporarily Closed]
[Update: The Deliverance Cove Track is temporarily closed. Updates can be found on the Department of Conservation website.]
A token lighthouse walk on this list of New Zealand hikes, the Deliverance Cove Track gives you two options to get to the Castlepoint Lighthouse.
Either walk through pine trees above a lagoon or walk the southern route on the edge of the lagoon through coastal grassland.
Time: 1 hr 30 mins return / Distance: 3.6 km (2.2 mi) / Location: Masterton, North Island
© Miles Holden - Tourism New Zealand49. Mt Manaia Track [Temporarily Closed]
[Update: The Manaia Track is temporarily closed. Updates can be found on the Department of Conservation website.]
Enjoy a steady climb through nikau palm and kauri forest to the rocky summit of the Mt Manaia Track with breathtaking views of Whangarei Heads.
Time: 2 hrs return / Distance: 4 km (2.5 mi) / Location: Whangarei, North Island
50. Wairere Falls Track [Temporarily Closed]
[Update: The Wairere Falls Track is temporarily closed. Updates can be found on the Department of Conservation website.]
Follow a trail with large boulders and cascading streams to the highest waterfall on the North Island, Wairere Falls.
There are various viewpoints of the falls, as well as a lookout from the top of the falls looking out across the Waikato region.
Time: 3-4 hrs return / Distance: 5 km (3.1 mi) / Location: Matamata, Waikato/Bay of Plenty
© NZPocketGuide.comMore About North Island Walks
That’s it for our guide to North Island walks; for more information about hiking trails and outdoor adventures, check out the following articles:
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in 10 Mind-Blowing Mt Ruapehu Walks. For even more hiking inspiration, don’t miss our guides to 10 Whangarei Walks You Can’t Miss, 10 Best Walks in New Plymouth, 10 Best Walks in Gisborne, and 10 Best Walks on Waiheke Island.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Adventure Mark (Health and Safety Audit - Updated [2025])
- Work Safe NZ (Adventure Activities Guidelines - Updated [2025])
- Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2025])
- AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2025])
- NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2025])
- Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2025])
- Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])
- Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])
Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
