Top 5 New Zealand's National Parks: A Nature Lover's Paradise
New Zealand – the land of the long white cloud, often overlooked on world maps. The land of kiwis, where there are more sheep than inhabitants. We spent an incredible 17 months in this fascinating country, exploring its most remote places in our own van. And while we were on the road, there was one thing we loved most: hiking!
The best places to lace up your hiking boots are, of course, the 13 national parks that 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 yourselves!
1. Egmont National Park
The name Egmont National Park might not immediately ring a bell. But what if I say Mount Taranaki? This mighty volcano is the heart of the park, towering 2,518 meters above the landscape. 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 summit of Taranaki – it was probably 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 strenuous, you can instead 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 ranks second for us. We hiked the Kepler Track in 3 days and pitched our tents right next to the huts (Note: Be sure to book in advance!). This national park is, of course, much larger than just the track, but we got 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 Keas (New Zealand mountain parrots). Watch your belongings – these birds are extremely cheeky and will steal anything not nailed down!
3. Abel Tasman National Park
Our number 3 is the much-loved 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. What's unique about this park is that you can reach the hiking trails with small water taxis, which drop you off directly at the most breathtaking beaches.
We chose a beautiful route directly along the coast and spent an incredibly peaceful night in the Anchorage hut.
4. Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
Next up is Mount Cook National Park, which definitely belongs on this list! The views there still give me goosebumps today. With Mount Cook as New Zealand's highest mountain in the background, the landscape is simply stunning.
The reason it's "only" at number 4 is simple: The main trail (Hooker Valley Track) is relatively easy to walk and not very long at 3 hours. Consequently, you encounter many day-trippers here. Nevertheless: You must see this place! Generally, when hiking in New Zealand: the more remote the route, the more often you'll have nature all to yourself.
5. Tongariro National Park
Breathtaking. That's all you really need to say about the landscape of the Tongariro Crossing. In this unique volcanic landscape, you feel like you're on another planet. The deep green and blue crater lakes 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 will need 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 doesn't have an infinite number of national parks, the ones it does have are absolutely spectacular! In our next post, we'll reveal our top 5 must-haves for any extensive hike.
One of these must-haves, which we never did without even on the most strenuous climbs: robust jewelry. Our handmade stainless steel pieces can handle any outdoor adventure, are completely waterproof and sweat-proof, and bring the spirit of New Zealand directly to you.