new zealand: north Island short walks

New Zealand is filled with both family friendly - as well as more fitness demanding short walks - and all the from few hours to a full day walks. Why not exploring them if you are a limited with time, or you have time to spare, or even if you have a full cloud cover but once you climb above… you have a sunshine, blinding your eyes, with a never-ending views across the region. Here are my chosen highlights… so far.

pouakai crossing

Egmont National Park, Taranaki / 19kms one way / 7-10hrs return / Advanced

Beautiful day walk through the forests, right in the shadows of nightly Mt Taranaki, across the Ahukawakawa Swamp wetlands as well as incredible views of the Egmont Region. This walk can be extended to a full circle, and also there are few points of entry to the track. On top of all, you also have a chance to visit famous tarns, with reflects the rugged Mt Taranaki on a calm day. The track requires good level of fitness, however you if you only want to visit the reflective tarns and see the Mt Taranaki, you can just do a four to five hours return trip from the Mangorei Road car park, totalling 10 kilometres. Great for the whole family!

Kauaeranga Kauri Trail (Pinnacles Walk)

Coromandel Forest Park, Coromandel / 7kms one way / 1 day return / Intermediate

This great day walk is a must do walk if visiting a beautiful and relaxed Coromandel region. You will be treated with swing bridges, falls, little rivers you can jump in, and historic site of the Webb Creek Hydro Camp. And to make it little more exciting, you will be climbing steps cut into the rock as well as ladders.

The Pinnacle Summit (750 m) offers spectacular views of the forest, bush, mountains and coastline of the eastern Coromandel. If you have a fear of heights, you might consider going all the way to the edges and rock hopping at the summit.

Right before the last climb is Pinnacles Hut, if you wish to make it for overnight trip and witness the sunrise from the summit.

rangitoto summit

Rangitoto Island, Auckland / 7kms / 2-4hours return / Easy

What could be better to break free from the busy city than a short ferry trip to explore old volcano? You can choose from climbing straight forward to the Summit, or take a longer walk across the well from tracks through ancient lava fields. I suggest you take the later option, and make it a full circle and explore this unique environment. Just a warning, during the hot sunny day it will get extremely hot due the black rocks so make sure to pack plenty of water and sunscreen. Also, wear rigid strong shoes for rugged, uneven surfaces.

From the top you have 360 degree views for the surrounding ocean, Islands as well as Auckland. AND on top if it all, you can add a short 20min side trip to explore Lava Caves - just bring a torch with you.

bell rock loop

Boundary Stream area, Hawke’s Bay / 5kms / 3 hours return or loop / Easy

Now this is what I can genuinely call best surprise I have had a long time. This little find along my road trip offered one of the best panoramic views I have seen along with unusual rock formations and local nature. Extreme care is required as the Bell Rock has dangerous drop offs, and unstable grounds at the edge of the hills.

east Egmont National Park

Egmont National Park, Taranaki / Various / Various return and loop / Easy

The area has multiple tracks, loops, return trips and viewpoints to explore, which I am not going to specify - but I suggest strongly for you to go to explore yourself. This mountain environment offer stunning views of the surroundings, goblet forests will get your imagination run free while trying to spot magical creatures, and mighty Mt Taranaki is calling you to go take a challenge of climbing of it. I found this place to be perfect to explore if you have spare time, or you are waiting weather window to attempt Mt Taranaki Summit hike.

Walks worth mentioning are Dawson Falls, Wilkies Pools Loop Track, Enchanted Track and Patea Loop Track.

MT TARANAKI SUMMIT CLIMB

Egmont National Park, Taranaki / 6.3kms one way / 6-10hrs return / Advanced

This climb is detailed on an other section, however I mention it briefly here as it can be done easily in one day if you have a good level of fitness.

It is not for faith hearted, requiring a good physical level of fitness and good preparation. This 2518m high dormant volcano might seem like child’s play - it is more difficult and dangerous than it may appear. It is important to attempt the track in good weather conditions, as it can change in a matter of minutes. Therefore, don’t be surprised if you start the trek with clear blue skies, then along the way you may be hammered with gusty winds, rain and a full cover of clouds without any trace of visibility of your surroundings. It is important to acknowledge the fact that if the weather turns suddenly, you might be required to turn back - do not push through no matter what. There has been multiple fatalities here, so please don’t overestimate your skills as even when I was there, it was worrying to witness a total lack of judgement by several visitors.

If you are keen to find more detailed information, check out the detailed story from the main menu.

TONGARIRO ALPINE CROSSING

Tongariro National Park, Mt Ruapehu / 19.4kms one way / 7-9hrs one way / Intermediate

This incredible walk is also detailed on an other section, however I mention it briefly here as it can be done easily in one day.

The crossing located in the Tongariro National Park, is one of the best hikes - not just in New Zealand, but in the entire world. This walk is very accessible, with a few steep ascents and one long descent - which requires good physical fitness levels. As it is so easy to reach, it also means it can be extremely crowded. However don’t let it put you off seeing one of the most unique landscapes you will most likely ever witness. And as an added bonus, you are able to even see the locations used in the Lord of the Rings movies, such as Mt Doom.

If you are keen to find more detailed information, check out the detailed story from the main menu.

wairere falls track

Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park, Bay of Plenty/ 19.4kms one way / 7-9hrs one way / Intermediate

A lovely return track crossing moss covered rocks and tree roots with a bit of climbing right up to the 153 meter waterfall, which rewards you with a beautiful views as seen above. There is a viewing platform, however on a dry season you can go right to the middle of the river itself and explore the start of this majestic nature’s wonder.

quick tips:

Check the weather for the national parks, again and again.

Plan well, allow time to complete the treks, or road trips… and let someone know about your plans, even with a short walks.

There are no water some of the tracks, so take roughly 1.5-3 litres of water and sunblock in all seasons. As weather can change quickly, other equipment worth taking is a waterproof jacket and pants, warm layered clothing, hat and gloves and a head torch. Better to be prepared - even with a short hikes.

Take food and snacks to keep your energy up. Just remember to bring ALL your rubbish - including food scraps - back with you. It’s a great practice to learn, no matter where you hike, to support sustainable activities, as well as preserving nature.

Hiking boots are not always required, but I suggest having them just to make walks more care free, especially winter time. You can do a lot of the walks wearing athletic shoes but make sure they have a good support and fit. There is nothing worse than being uncomfortable during the walks. Some of the tracks are very rugged at times with steep sections - so it’s better to have strong, rigid footwear. Definitely no sandals, ever!

For a winter hike make sure you might need crampons. Check out the DOC site for any additional information off any of the tracks.

As always, it is good to have a cellphone. Even thou the trails are pretty straightforward and well marked, you are expected to stay on marked paths.

There are something for everyone if you want to explore incredible hikes with extremely easy access!