The 5 Most Beautiful National Parks in New Zealand
New Zealand – the land of the long white cloud, which is sometimes forgotten on world maps. The land of the kiwi, where there are more sheep than inhabitants. We spent an incredible 17 months in this fascinating country and explored the most remote places in our own van. And while we were out on the roads, there was one thing we loved most: hiking!
The best places to lace up your hiking boots are, of course, the 13 national parks New Zealand has to offer. They protect the country's most precious natural wonders. The Department of Conservation (DOC) looks after these parks and does a fantastic job: they provide great infrastructure and keep these magical places clean and accessible.
From these 13 national parks, we have selected our absolute top 5 for you. We hope we can inspire you to explore these extraordinary places yourself!
1. Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki (Mount Egmont National Park)
The name Mount Egmont National Park might not immediately ring alarm bells. But what if we say Mount Taranaki? Since 2025, the park has officially been called Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki and the mountain Taranaki Maunga (previously Mount Egmont or Mount Taranaki). This massive volcano is the heart of the park and towers over the landscape at a proud height of 2,518 metres. Interesting fact: The park used to be much larger, but in 1881, it was decided to draw the boundaries in a perfect circle around the volcano.
We can proudly say that we made it all the way to the very top of Mount Taranaki – it was by far the best and most intense experience of our lives. We have never felt so many emotions at once! If the climb to the summit is too intense for you, you can instead take a wonderful hike to the Red Hut. The view from there is also absolutely breathtaking.
2. Fiordland National Park
The famous Kepler Track has ensured that Fiordland National Park lands straight in second place for us. We hiked the Kepler Track in 3 days and pitched our tents right next to the huts (Warning: Be sure to book in advance!). This national park is, of course, much larger than just the track, but we were able to catch an unforgettable glimpse of the pristine fjord landscapes that you could never reach by car.
It is incredibly peaceful there. This region is also home to the kea (New Zealand mountain parrots). Keep a close eye on your belongings – these birds are extremely cheeky and steal everything that isn't nailed down!
3. Abel Tasman National Park
Our number 3 is the beloved Abel Tasman National Park in the north of the South Island. It winds picturesquely along the coast and is named after the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman. The unique thing about this park: You can reach the hiking trails by small water taxis and are dropped off directly at the most breathtaking beaches.
We chose a beautiful route right along the coast and spent an incredibly peaceful night at the Anchorage Hut.
4. Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
Next up is Mount Cook National Park, which definitely cannot be missing from this list! The views there still give us goosebumps today. With Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest mountain, in the background, the landscape is simply impressive.
The reason it is "only" in 4th place is simple: The main trail (Hooker Valley Track) is relatively easy to walk and is not very long at 3 hours. Accordingly, you will meet many day tourists here. Nevertheless: You must have seen this place! As a general rule for hiking in New Zealand: The more remote the route, the more often you have nature all to yourself.
5. Tongariro National Park
Breathtaking. There is really nothing more to say about the landscape of the Tongariro Crossing. In this unique volcanic landscape, you feel like you are on another planet. The deep green and blue crater lakes practically glow, and the panoramic view over the mountains is indescribable.
Be aware that this is a major tourist attraction. Since the route does not end at the starting point, you have to book a shuttle bus. If you have the opportunity to travel there outside of the New Zealand holiday season, you will have significantly less company – and the view is worth every single step!
Perfectly equipped for the next adventure
Even though New Zealand does not have an endless number of national parks, the ones it does have are absolutely spectacular! What you should definitely not miss in your backpack, you can read about in 10 things you need for a New Zealand road trip.
One of these must-haves, which we never gave up even on the most grueling climb: sturdy jewelry. Our handmade pieces made of stainless steel will go along with every outdoor adventure, are absolutely water- and sweat-proof, and bring the spirit of New Zealand directly to you.