4 Guided Day Hikes in New Zealand Worth Lacing Up For

1.Queen Charlotte Track: Cruise & Self-Guided Hike from Picton

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 383 reviews · 8h 30m · from $66Our pick

Cruise from Picton with skipper commentary, pause at Historic Ship Cove, then choose a 12.7 km hike from Furneaux Lodge to Punga Cove or a 17 km walk from Ship Cove to Furneaux Lodge. Expect native bush, sound views, possible dolphins, and a lodge stop for food or drinks.

“The walk was easy to find and follow. There's a bit of a steep climb at the start, but it gets easier towards the middle/end. The views were stunning - even on a grey day. The route could do with a few more picnic tables at some of the stopping points. There weren't many of us walking but they quickly filled up. Our boat connection was very efficient.”

Check availability →Read our full review

2.Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Premium Guided Hike

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 189 reviews · 9 hours · from $254

Join Adrift Tongariro for a demanding 9-hour guided crossing between Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Tongariro. Your English-speaking guide leads you past red craters, Emerald Lakes, Blue Lake, and native bush, with transport, safety support, and winter equipment included when needed.

“This was one of my highlights of our trip. Our guides, Kayla and Ty, were outstanding. Particularly impressive was learning about Mauri culture from Ty. Beautiful and amazing!”

Check availability →Read our full review

3.Milford Track: Full Day Guided Hike and Nature Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 70 reviews · 7 hours · from $215

Start with a guided 11 km Milford Track walk through rainforest to Giant Gate Waterfall, then board a two-hour small-boat cruise beneath Mitre Peak and Milford Sound’s cliffs. Guides such as Rosa, Ben, Tamara, and PC add useful local detail. Bring lunch, rain gear, and warm layers.

“We truly enjoyed walking on the Milford track with Rosa and Maddie, who are both very knowledgeable about the native species and birds. It was great to learn so much. The trip through the fjord was also truly amazing. It was a great day.”

Check availability →Read our full review

4.Routeburn Track Guided Hike (Full Day)

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 27 reviews · from $257Top rated

Spend about 10 hours hiking up to 22 kilometres on the Routeburn Track with a professional guide, lunch, snacks, water, and Queenstown transport. Expect beech forest, Routeburn Falls, alpine views, birdlife, and some steep sections. Guides have included Lucas, Angelo, Fiona, and Paul.

“Angelo was an amazing guide! He taught us so much about the different plants and birds in the area. The track itself was great, not too easy and not too difficult, but really great views.”

Check availability →Read our full review