New Zealand Hiking Tours: 14 to Book Next

Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike - The gear makes a difficult walk manageable

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 618 reviews · from $506Our pick

Fly from Franz Josef village to the glacier, land on the ice, and spend about 2 hours 15 minutes walking among caves, crevasses, pinnacles, and seracs. Your guide supplies crampons, boots, and warm layers, then explains glaciology and Maori stories. Groups are capped at 11, with guides such as Sarah, Maya, Angus, and Henry leading the ice walk.

“The staff members I interacted with were knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful. They were very clear about what to expect on the glacier. The helicopter ride provided a beautiful view of the glacier. The group I was in was guided by Kurt. Read more”

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Glacier Hikes, Glacier Hikes in New Zealand, Hiking Tours, New Zealand Hiking Tours, Tour Reviews

Heli Hike Fox Glacier

2.Heli Hike Fox Glacier

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 563 reviews · from $477Best guided

Take two short helicopter flights to Te Moeka o Tuawe, or Fox Glacier, and spend up to three hours walking its blue ice, caves, arches, and crevasses. Guides such as Charlie, Serena, Henry, and Billy cut steps and lead you safely across the changing ice. Boots, socks, crampons, poles, and wet-weather gear are supplied.

“Amazing!! The staffs are very kindly, and glacier is the most beautiful experience I’ve ever met!😍😍”

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Guided, Guided Day Hikes, Hiking Tours, New Zealand Hiking Tours, Self-Guided Tours, Tour Reviews

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

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

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

Cruise with Beachcomber Cruises from Picton through the Marlborough Sounds, with skipper commentary and possible dolphin sightings. Choose a 12.7-kilometer walk from Furneaux Lodge to Punga Cove or a 17-kilometer route from Ship Cove to Furneaux Lodge. Allow a full day and bring food, water, rain gear, and sturdy shoes.

“Information on the ferry trip over was great. We learned so much about the local environment and the issues being faces. It made our hike so much more meaningful.”

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Glacier Hikes, Glacier Hikes in New Zealand, Helicopter Tours, Hiking Tours, New Zealand Hiking Tours, Tour Reviews

Franz Josef: 2.5 Hour Glacier Hike with Helicopter Transfer

4.Franz Josef: 2.5 Hour Glacier Hike with Helicopter Transfer

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 322 reviews · 4 - 8 hours · from $475

Fly from Franz Josef over rainforest, cliffs, and waterfalls before landing on the glacier for a guided 2.5-hour hike. Your guide supplies boots, crampons, warm gear, and glacier stories. Expect changing ice routes, tight passages, ropes, and a moderate physical challenge. Guides such as Ryan, Sarah, Drew, and Abbey are praised for their care and clear explanations.

“Great experience. I wish we were given time to take photos while we were walking . It felt like we were in a rush, the only time we stopped walking was when we were waiting for the helicopter.”

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3-Hour Experiences, Glacier Hikes, Glacier Hikes in New Zealand, Helicopter Tours, Hiking Tours, New Zealand Hiking Tours, Tour Reviews

Fox Glacier: Up to 3 Hours Hike with Helicopter Transfer

5.Fox Glacier: Up to 3 Hours Hike with Helicopter Transfer

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 309 reviews · 4 hours · from $448

Fly into a remote part of Fox Glacier, fit up with boots, crampons, poles, and weather gear, then spend up to three hours following ice steps through caves, arches, crevasses, and rivers. Guides such as Kate, Billy, Keeley, and Toa explain how the glacier changes. The return flight offers another fine view.

“The whole experience was amazing. The company are very organised and take safety very seriously. We had plenty of time on the glacier. Overall a wonderful experience 👍👍👍👍👍🚁❄️”

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Guided, Hiking Tours, Mountain & Summit Hikes, Mountain and Summit Hikes in New Zealand, New Zealand Hiking Tours, Tour Reviews, Volcano Hikes

Rotorua Hiking: Mt Tarawera Guided Volcanic Crater Experience

6.Rotorua Hiking: Mt Tarawera Guided Volcanic Crater Experience

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 283 reviews · from $121

Travel from Rotorua into the volcanic country around Mt Tarawera, then hike with a professional Kiwi guide toward the crater rim. Hear about the 1886 eruption, Māori connections to the maunga, and the Waimangu Valley. The 4.5-hour trip includes hotel pickup, panoramic views, and an optional run down loose volcanic scree.

“Spectacular views and guides! Highly recommend and would absolutely do it again. Hike met all of our expectations and more!”

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Hiking Tours, Horses, New Zealand Hiking Tours, Tour Reviews

Cardrona High Country Pub Trail Horse Trek (Intermediate level+)

7.Cardrona High Country Pub Trail Horse Trek (Intermediate level+)

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 269 reviews · from $433

Ride high into the Cardrona Valley with a small group of up to seven, crossing rivers and working-farm country before stopping at the Cardrona Hotel for a drink. Guides including Summer, Emily, Kelly, Ally, and Marley match horses to riding ability and offer local gold rush stories. Trotting and cantering are part of the ride, so solid experience is required.

“I was surprised that we were going to ride in the drizzle and was a little nervous but Emily was great. She offered me some waterproof clothes, helmet and off we went. She was a great equestrian and excellent communicator. Took a real interest in us and I was very grateful because I hadn't been on a horse in years!”

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Guided, Hiking Tours, New Zealand Hiking Tours, Self-Guided Tours, Tour Reviews

Volcanic Valley Self Guided Walking and Hiking at Waimangu

8.Volcanic Valley Self Guided Walking and Hiking at Waimangu

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 248 reviews · from $46Cheapest way up

Explore Waimangu Volcanic Valley independently with a printed Wanderer Guide and optional free app. Follow trails past Frying Pan Lake, Inferno Crater Lake, steaming vents, native bush, and Lake Rotomahana. Choose a shorter walk or continue farther, then use the internal shuttle bus back uphill. Allow about two hours, more if you take your time.

“A magnificent self-guided walk to learn more about the history of the place and enjoy those wonderful landscapes so characteristic of the area. Without a doubt totally recommended.”

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3-Hour Experiences, Glacier Hikes, Glacier Hikes in New Zealand, Helicopter Tours, Hiking Tours, Mountain & Summit Hikes, Mountain and Summit Hikes in New Zealand, New Zealand Hiking Tours, Tour Reviews

Mount Cook: 3-Hour Tasman Glacier Helicopter Ride and Hike

9.Mount Cook: 3-Hour Tasman Glacier Helicopter Ride and Hike

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 235 reviews · 3 hours · from $537

Fly from Mount Cook Airport onto Tasman Glacier, then spend up to two hours walking through changing ice formations with a guide such as Hunter, Tori, Anna, or Rich. Boots, crampons, socks, and waterproof layers are supplied. Two helicopter flights frame the hike, weather permitting.

“AMAZING! Loved it! Worth every cent! Tory our guide was 10/10 so knowledgeable, kind and friendly. She really went above and beyond making our day special. Information and introduction at the beginning was presented well and clear. Jackets and pants included were good quality. Helicopter ride breathtaking.”

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3-Hour Experiences, Glacier Hikes, Glacier Hikes in New Zealand, Hiking Tours, Mountain & Summit Hikes, Mountain and Summit Hikes in New Zealand, New Zealand Hiking Tours, Tour Reviews

Mount Cook: 3 Hour Heli Hike to the Tasman Glacier

10.Mount Cook: 3 Hour Heli Hike to the Tasman Glacier

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 218 reviews · 3 hours · from $564

Fly from Mount Cook Airport to the Tasman Glacier, then spend about two hours walking on the ice with a guide such as Kerry, Scott, Maddie, or Jess. You get glacier boots, crampons, and a jacket if needed, plus close views of Aoraki, Mount Tasman, and the Hochstetter Icefall. Weather can change the plan.

“Magnificent views with breathtaking experience, a professional glacier hiking guidance of Kerry, a great pilot with smooth helicopter ride. A 7 stars journey.”

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2-Hour Experiences, Hiking Tours, Horses, New Zealand Hiking Tours, Tour Reviews

Rubicon Valley Horse Treks – 2 Hour River Trail Horse Trek

11.Rubicon Valley Horse Treks – 2 Hour River Trail Horse Trek

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 196 reviews · from $91

Chris leads this two-hour ride from Rubicon Valley Horse Treks near Springfield. You’ll cross farmland, follow a musterers’ trail, reach Otarama lookout above the Waimakariri Canyon, and pause for photos. Beginners receive patient guidance, while experienced riders may get chances to trot or canter when conditions allow.

“It was only my second time on a horse and the tour guide was very patient. He was very helpful and knowledgable. The views are beautiful! Highly recommend if you want to see the incredible views in this part of Christchurch.”

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Guided, Guided Day Hikes, Hiking Tours, New Zealand Hiking Tours, Tour Reviews

Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Premium Guided Hike

12.Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Premium Guided Hike

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

Spend about nine hours hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing with an English-speaking guide from Adrift Tongariro. You’ll pass volcanic craters, Red Crater, Emerald Lakes, Blue Lake, and views toward Ngauruhoe, Tongariro, and Ruapehu. Guides such as Stu, Hiro, Kayla, Ty, and Hannah have helped hikers manage changing weather, fatigue, and route changes.

“Absolutely awesome tour! 9 September and the weather was bearable (just) and we made it all the way to the end! Our guide Stu was very informative and helpful, keeping everyone motivated for the journey! 100% worth persisting with it. Remember to “keep your hat on” Stu! Haha 😎 Thank you Robyn and Stu! Absolutely amazing day! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rated all the way!”

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Hiking Tours, New Zealand Hiking Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours, Wildlife

Bay of Islands Cruise & Island Tour – Snorkel, Hike,Swim,Wildlife

13.Bay of Islands Cruise & Island Tour – Snorkel, Hike,Swim,Wildlife

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 177 reviews · from $104

Spend 4.5 hours cruising the Bay of Islands with guides such as Hamish, Adam, Nick, Cass, and Dan. Walk to Roberton Island’s Twin Lagoons lookout, watch for dolphins, penguins, seals, and seabirds, pass Cape Brett, and visit the Hole in the Rock. A second island stop allows time to snorkel, swim, or relax.

“Great cruise around the Bay of Islands. Loved the stop at Roberton Island with enough time to climb the hill to see the Twin Lagoons. We decided not to snorkel or swim at the second stop, but the information about the local sea urchins by one of the crew was very interesting. Note, these are pests in the Bay. There was enough time for everyone on board to see the famous Hole in the Rock and the boat went all the way around the island. We also saw gannets close up on another rock in the bay. We even saw some mana rays wave their wing tips at the boat.…”

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Hiking Tours, Horses, Lake & Lagoon Hikes, Mountain & Summit Hikes, Mountain and Summit Hikes in New Zealand, New Zealand Hiking Tours, Tour Reviews

Queenstown: Walter Peak Horse Trek & Queenstown Lake Cruise

14.Queenstown: Walter Peak Horse Trek & Queenstown Lake Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 151 reviews · from $134

Cruise 45 minutes across Lake Whakatipu aboard the 1912 TSS Earnslaw or Spirit of Queenstown, then join an English-speaking guide for a gentle 40 to 45-minute horse trek at Walter Peak. The ride suits first-time and novice riders, with groups limited to six per guide. Tea, coffee, scones, and muffins follow at the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant.

“Spectacular place, guide was awesome. All around a good time”

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Other ways to spend the day on foot

Mountain & Summit Hikes129 Volcano Hikes97 Waterfall Hikes60 Guided Day Hikes93 Glacier Hikes51 National Park Hikes42

New Zealand Hiking Tours: 14 to Book Next

Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike

1.Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike

Heli Hike Fox Glacier

2.Heli Hike Fox Glacier

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

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

Franz Josef: 2.5 Hour Glacier Hike with Helicopter Transfer

4.Franz Josef: 2.5 Hour Glacier Hike with Helicopter Transfer

Fox Glacier: Up to 3 Hours Hike with Helicopter Transfer

5.Fox Glacier: Up to 3 Hours Hike with Helicopter Transfer

Rotorua Hiking: Mt Tarawera Guided Volcanic Crater Experience

6.Rotorua Hiking: Mt Tarawera Guided Volcanic Crater Experience

Cardrona High Country Pub Trail Horse Trek (Intermediate level+)

7.Cardrona High Country Pub Trail Horse Trek (Intermediate level+)

Volcanic Valley Self Guided Walking and Hiking at Waimangu

8.Volcanic Valley Self Guided Walking and Hiking at Waimangu

Mount Cook: 3-Hour Tasman Glacier Helicopter Ride and Hike

9.Mount Cook: 3-Hour Tasman Glacier Helicopter Ride and Hike

Mount Cook: 3 Hour Heli Hike to the Tasman Glacier

10.Mount Cook: 3 Hour Heli Hike to the Tasman Glacier

Rubicon Valley Horse Treks – 2 Hour River Trail Horse Trek

11.Rubicon Valley Horse Treks – 2 Hour River Trail Horse Trek

Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Premium Guided Hike

12.Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Premium Guided Hike

Bay of Islands Cruise & Island Tour – Snorkel, Hike,Swim,Wildlife

13.Bay of Islands Cruise & Island Tour – Snorkel, Hike,Swim,Wildlife

Queenstown: Walter Peak Horse Trek & Queenstown Lake Cruise

14.Queenstown: Walter Peak Horse Trek & Queenstown Lake Cruise

Pick a kind of walking day

Above the treeline

Water and rock

How you walk it

Trees and trails