Where the hiker's dream begins

Hong Kong, China
By New Zealand Tourism Board
23 Dec 2024

New Zealand, the place where many hikers' dreams begin! If life is getting you down, why don't you come to New Zealand for a hike? Because, when you are hiking, you are left with nature and yourself.

These 4 lightweight trails for beginners have been prepared for you, hiking novices can start without stress, children can also easily on the road ~ 

1. Lake Matheson Walk

📍:West Coast
🕙:4.4km (loop), approx. 1.5 hours duration

The area is famous for the stunning water reflections of Lake Matheson, also known as Mirror Lake. The surface of the water is a clear reflection of New Zealand's tallest mountain, Mount Cook, and is best viewed at dawn or dusk when the golden light of dawn or sunset falls on the calm surface of the lake, perfectly framing the magnificence of the mountain and its surroundings.

2. Kura Tawhiti Access Track

📍:Christchurch
🕘:1.4km (round trip), the whole journey takes about 20 minutes

This rocky natural Stonehenge has attracted the film ‘Lord of the Rings’ to be filmed here 🎬. Follow the designated route into Stonehenge 🪨 to experience the natural wonders of the gifted shape, but also to explore more novel angles. But don't just hit the ground running, remember to walk steadily! It's also a world-renowned rock-climbing destination, so be safe and follow the rock-climbing rules while taking on the challenge! 

3. Cape Foulwind Walkway

📍:West Coast
🕘:3.4km (one way), approximately 1 hour 25 minutes each way
This winding coastal walk leads to the Tauranga Bay seal rookery, where flocks of fur seals gather throughout the year. As you travel north along the trail, the Cape Leeward Lighthouse stands silent as the Pacific Ocean waves continue to crash against the steep coastline in a majestic display of nature's power. It is now the fur seal breeding season (November to February each year)! You'll have a chance to see the newborn pups~!

4. Rangitoto Summit Track

📍:Auckland
🕘:7km (round trip), the whole journey takes about 2 hours.

 Nestled in Hauraki Gulf, the peak of Mount Longyetoto is reached by ferry, and from the jetty, the trail follows the lava rock formations through the vast Pohutukawa forest to the summit, where you'll be rewarded with 360-degree views of Auckland. The island is also home to native forest birds, so why not spend some time on the island, soaking up the mountains and rejuvenating with the natural flora and fauna!

 

 

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