As tiring as it all is - we LOVE lists! What books made the Best Seller’s list? What movie was top at the box office? What TV shows are trending on Netflix? The lists go on and with it, our own lists either get bigger or smaller as we discover new ideas, new things to explore or new things to try.
 

So why not take some inspiration from the Best-Selling Walks of 2020 NZ list that we have compiled and plan some future time away to head out, unplug for a while and enjoy the outdoors.
 

It may well be due to the recent show “The Sounds” featuring on Neon which is set in the Pelorus Sound….but this trip takes out the top honours for 2020 and can be described as a little know hike in a well-known area. Those that come to hike in Marlborough are generally coming for the iconic Queen Charlotte track.  But this lesser know hike, tucked away in the Pelorus Sounds is more remote and less visited than its famous cousin.
 

The Nydia Track runs from Kaiuma Bay in the south to Duncans Bay in the north covering 27 kms and offering regenerating native bush walks, untouched forests, sheltered shorelines and some of the most amazing views.  The trip gives you a rest day in the middle which is perfect for the chance to explore the natural surrounds, relax in the hot tub or simply sit down with a good book. 

 

Another that allows you to take in the Nydia Track, but this time, your home away from home is a cabin on a boat.  Walk during the day, sail into a tranquil cove for the night. Hike and Cruise tends to be a popular option world over, as you get to walk the regular trails, but also experience hidden bays and coves travelling to places that you simply cannot reach any other way.  
 

Not only do you get to hike the beautiful Nydia Track on this hike and cruise, but you also get to walk the beautiful Jacobs Bay Track and the Archers Track as part of the journey.  A real exploration of the Pelorus Sound.
 

It’s easy to understand why this Great Walk of New Zealand takes out one of our Best Seller spots.  Nelson Tasman region is home to the most sunshine hours in New Zealand and the views from the Abel Tasman Track offer diverse and spectacular scenery as well as golden sand beaches and bluest of blue ocean colours.
 

The Abel Tasman Adventure gives the added bonus of private lodge accommodation as well as two well-placed rest days, where you can simply kick back and relax (internet and mobile reception doesn’t come easy in the Abel Tasman National Park) or where you can enjoy some kayaking in the tranquil bays.  What more could you want!
 

The Nydia Track took out our top two spots, but of course, the Queen Charlotte wasn’t going to be missed off the Best Seller list!  Although the actual track can be walked in three or four days, it is the more popular Extended Hike that appeals to our travellers.  Why? More time to get away and relax of course!
 

This track provides it all.  70kms from end to end, with cosy lodge accommodation, scenic boat ride, varied walks either along the shoreline on along the ridge tops and of course, views, views, views.  Hiking the Queen Charlotte is quite a special experience as much of the access to the track relies on the cooperation of local landowners being a track that combines private land and public nature reserves.  Definitely one to tick off your list.
 

Last one to make our Best Seller list is the Banks Peninsula Hike.  Many of us have been to Christchurch.  Many of us have then taken time to head to Akaroa.  But how many of us have done the Banks Peninsula? Not many I can tell you.
 

This is a truly unique New Zealand experience.  Hiking over volcanic landscapes, native forest, steep private farmland and through the peaceful Hinewai Reserve and each night, enjoying a good old-fashioned farmstay for your accommodation.  Local hospitality and landscape at their very best (as well as some local wildlife thrown in just for fun).