It is no secret that New Zealand is famous for its outstanding and pristine natural landscape. From lush forests and tumbling waterfalls to sprawling mountain ranges and never-ending coastlines, there are endless opportunities to get outside and enjoy the country’s best running trails.
Whether you are searching for a family-friendly activity to get the kids out of the house for the day or a challenging but manageable opprtunity to break in your new men’s running shoes, the picturesque New Zealand landscape offers numerous running trails to enjoy all year long.
Queenstown Hill Walkway
Located near the southern town of Queenstown, this 4.8km trail provides an exciting and challenging adventure. On average, it takes about two and a half hours to complete and is a popular trail option for hiking, running, and walking, meaning you will encounter other people while exploring.
The Queenstown Hill Walkway is a trail that’s open all year, allowing you to experience its beauty in every season. The track is well-maintained and offers plenty of tall trees and shaded areas to rest along the way. However, it’s important to note that it’s not a pet-friendly location, so it’s best to leave your furry friends at home and plan your visit accordingly.
Taranaki Falls Walk
Taranaki Falls Walk, a 6km loop trail in the Tongariro National Park near Owhango, is a moderately challenging route. With an average completion time of an hour and a half, it’s a great choice for those looking for a bit of a challenge without being too strenuous. The trail’s unique feature is the Taranaki Falls, a stunning cascade that’s a sight to behold. It’s a perfect trail for intermediate runners and hikers.
The track is clearly marked and primarily flat. A handful of stairs will take you to an upper loop track, which provides panoramic views of Mount Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe. It is a family-friendly spot to enjoy a day in the sunshine, but pets are prohibited on the trail and should be left at home.
Mount John Walkway
Mount John Walkway, near Tekapo in Canterbury, takes visitors on a loop from the milky-turquoise blue Lake Tekapo to the panoramic view of Mount John. The route to the summit is somewhat steep but has plenty of shaded places to pause and catch one’s breath.
Once you reach the top, enjoy a refreshing drink at the cafe nestled on the hill. There are plenty of opportunities to have a family picnic while taking Instagram-worthy photos of the surrounding mountains and the lake below. Don’t forget your sunscreen, as this area is largely uncovered.
Maungawhau / Mt. Eden Path
Mount Eden Path in Auckland is an easy and relaxed 2.1km looped trail offering stunning views of the sprawling North Island city and Waitematã Harbour. It is a popular spot for locals to walk and run, with unobstructed views to watch the perfect sunrise or sunset.
The trail is mostly paved to the top, with multiple different places to sit and enjoy the view along the way. Open year-round, it is the ideal location to get your daily dose of after-dinner cardio with the entire family. Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed at all times.
Cossey Massey Loop Track
The Cossey Massey Loop Track is considered to be one of the best walks in the Hunua Ranges Regional Park near Auckland. The well-maintained track has plenty of protective covering, largely shielding it from the elements throughout the year.
The 8km loop contains a fair number of stairs and a bridged river crossing. Some sections of the route become relatively narrow, but they are manageable to navigate and shouldn’t deter anyone from visiting. Dogs are welcome on the trail but must remain leashed. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Hunua Falls before heading home.
Mount Maunganui Summit / Ranui Loop Track
The Ranui Loop Track is a popular 6.4km trail near Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty. It takes you up to the iconic Mount Maunganui summit, the ideal place to watch the setting sun on a summer evening. The track is well-maintained and offers endless views of the pristine South Pacific Ocean and the bustling city below.
If you are lucky enough, you may be able to spot seals lounging on the warm sand along the coast during the warmer months. Due to its popularity, parking might pose a challenge, with many locals preferring to park along the beach and walk in. In order to maintain the safety of surrounding wildlife, pets are not welcome on the trail and must be left at home.
Redwood Quarry Loop Track
The Redwood Quarry Loop Track is a picturesque track through the lush and beautiful Redwoods Forest near Rotorua in the Bay of Plenty. Considered moderate in difficulty, it should take roughly one and a half hours to complete, and it is popular for anyone wanting to spend their day outside hiking, running, or walking.
Like many other trails in New Zealand, you should expect to encounter a few stairs along the way, but there are fantastic spots to stop and relax if you need a break. Furthermore, you can opt to tackle the Redwoods Treewalk, which does carry a fee.
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