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Love walking in NZ? Join 6,239 of your fellow kiwi's for new walks to explore every week!

Subscribe to our weekly “Where to Next?” email for hidden walking gems around NZ. You’ll also receive my 39-page Auckland Walking Guide FREE!

Ready to Find Your Next Epic Walk?

Waterfalls, beaches, mountains, cities, countryside – my Freewalks guide has all the good stuff! It’s your chance to get out, unwind, and have some fun walking in New Zealand.

Whether you’re after a quick stroll, a full-on trek, or just a cruisy wander, there’s a track waiting with your name on it. So, lace up and get moving – the best walks in NZ are right here.

👉 Let’s go explore. Walk free, have fun!

Couple walking along the waterfront in Auckland

Auckland Walks

Lovely scene in Rotorua on a walk

Rotorua Walks

Boating on the Avon River in Christchurch

Christchurch Walks

Beautiful Lake Moke in Queenstown

Queenstown Walks

Sandra on top of Mt Iron in Wanaka

Wanaka Walks

Beautiful waterfall in New Zealand

Waterfall Walks

Planning your walk or hike in New Zealand is easy!

These 3 helpful articles are the perfect place to start…

All my walks are completely free!

Here is a selection of my most favourite walks in the North Island…

St Paul’s Rock Track

3.6 km return • 1 hour 20 mins • Medium • Whangaroa
Full walk details

Mt Eden Volcano Walk

2 km • 1 Hour • Easy • Central Auckland
Full walk details

Mt Maunganui Summit Walk

3.80 km • 1 Hour 20 mins • Hard • Bay of Plenty
Full walk details

Here is a selection of my most favourite walks in the South Island…

Hooker Valley Track

10 km return • 3 hours • Easy • Mt Cook
Full walk details

Lake Matheson Lake

4 km • 1 Hour 30 Minutes • Easy • Fox Glacier
Full walk details

Bannockburn Sluicings Reserve

4 km • 2 Hours • Easy • Cromwell
Full walk details

Would you like advice and feedback on your walks in New Zealand?

My friendly Facebook Group has more than 1,100 members from New Zealand and all around the world, and they would love to answer your questions!

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Walker reviews

Freewalks.nz is a fantastic resource for discovering New Zealand's best walking tracks! As an avid hiker, I appreciate the detailed descriptions and user-friendly maps that make planning my walks a breeze. The site helped me find hidden gems like the Brick Bay Sandspit Loop Walk, which had great views and beach walking. Highly recommend this site to anyone looking to explore the great outdoors in New Zealand!
Adam Sendler
Hiker from NZ
I stumbled upon Freewalks.nz while searching for new hiking spots and have been hooked ever since. The comprehensive walking guides and tips have made my walks so much more enjoyable. I recently tried the Whirinaki Forest in Taupo based on a recommendation from the site, and it did not disappoint! Freewalks.nz is a must-visit.
Mike Stuart
From Taupo
The most beautiful waterfalls in New Zealand by Sandra Tanner
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Every time a new walk is added it will appear here first. If you subscribe to my email you’ll also get notified there as well. Don’t worry we don’t add that many, it takes time to walk the walk and then write it all up. 

Want to know more about walking and hiking in New Zealand?

Here are some common questions from other walkers…

Q1. What are the best hikes in New Zealand?

Q2. What is the best time of year to hike in New Zealand?

  • Answer: The best time for hiking or walking in most parts of New Zealand is during the spring and summer months (October to April) when the weather is warmer and the days are longer.

Q3. Are there any required permits or fees for hiking?

  • Answer: Some of the popular Great Walks require booking in advance and have associated fees. 99.9% of the walks on my website are totally FREE to walk.

Q4. What wildlife and plants might I see?

  • Answer: Depending on the region, you will usually see native birds like the fantail or tui, and unique flora such as the silver fern or kauri trees. Always keep a respectful distance from wildlife.

Q5. Can I do these hikes with children or pets?

  • Answer: Many walks are suitable for children, but pets are often not allowed so as to protect local wildlife, especially in national parks and on conservation lands.

Q6. Can I fly a drone on a walk in New Zealand?

Using a drone on walking tracks in New Zealand is generally restricted, especially in national parks and conservation areas managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC). Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Permissions Required: You must obtain a special permit from the DOC to fly a drone on most walking tracks, particularly those that pass through national parks or conservation land. DOC considers the impact on wildlife, the environment, and the experience of other visitors before granting permission.

  2. Respecting Wildlife and Environment: The use of drones can disturb wildlife and disrupt the natural environment, which is why restrictions are often strict in sensitive areas.

  3. Privacy of Others: Flying a drone on busy tracks can also infringe on the privacy and enjoyment of other track users. DOC’s policies aim to maintain the natural peace and enjoyment of outdoor spaces for all visitors.

  4. Safety Considerations: The safety of all visitors is a priority on walking tracks. Drones can pose risks if not operated carefully, especially in areas that are often crowded or have challenging terrain.