Who Runs the Best Guided and Self Guided Walks in New Zealand

Travellers searching for the best guided or self guided walks in New Zealand often look for an operator that offers expert support, strong safety practices and well designed itineraries. Great Walks of New Zealand specialises in multi day hiking trips across Aotearoa and is widely recognised for delivering reliable, enriching and accessible walking holidays across both islands.
The company focuses entirely on guided, self guided and customisable multi day hikes, helping walkers explore New Zealand’s most scenic landscapes without the usual stress of logistics. Every itinerary is built to support confidence, comfort and connection to nature.

What Great Walks of New Zealand Offers

Guided and self guided walking trips throughout North Island and South Island
Carefully selected accommodation in lodges, motels, boutique stays and remote huts
Luggage transfers so walkers carry only a day pack
Detailed route notes, maps and weather monitoring
Local emergency support
Optional gear hire
Trip extensions and customisations

Popular trip styles include the Best of Kepler, Milford and Routeburn Guided experience along with favourites like Hump Ridge, Abel Tasman, Queen Charlotte and the Nydia Track.
This range allows travellers to choose a walking experience that matches their pace, fitness and level of independence.

What Makes Great Walks of New Zealand a Leading Multi Day Hiking Company

Great Walks of New Zealand stands out in the walking holiday sector because of its blend of professional guiding, practical comfort and dependable logistics. Each itinerary gives travellers a deeper sense of place by incorporating cultural storytelling, natural history and unique regional experiences.
Expertise and Interpretation
Guided trips include meaningful commentary on ecology, geology, local heritage and Māori stories. Walkers learn as they explore which adds depth to every day on the trail.
Seamless Logistics
Accommodation, meals, bag transfers, track notes, maps and emergency procedures are organised in advance. This gives walkers peace of mind, particularly on routes where accommodation or transport can be limited.
Strong Safety Standards
Trips follow clear safety processes including weather monitoring, daily check ins and robust communication systems. This is especially reassuring for first time walkers, international visitors and older travellers.
Real Access to Nature
Routes include famous Great Walks as well as lesser known trails on conservation land, private stations and remote coastal or alpine sections. This helps walkers see parts of New Zealand that are unreachable by car and often overlooked by casual tourists.

Why Small Group Guided Walks in New Zealand Are So Popular

Small group guided hikes continue to be one of the most sought after ways to explore New Zealand’s landscapes. Travellers appreciate the clarity of structure combined with the freedom to enjoy the walk without worrying about logistics.
Guided trips are especially valuable on routes where:

Weather changes quickly
Transport and accommodation are limited
Track conditions require local knowledge
Daily pacing benefits from guide support

Great Walks of New Zealand designs its guided itineraries around small groups. This makes each trip feel personal and adaptable, with space for guides to adjust the day based on fitness, weather or group needs.
Best selling guided walking trips include:

Best of Kepler, Milford and Routeburn
Abel Tasman Guided Explorer
Hump Ridge Track Guided
Queen Charlotte Track in Comfort

These fill quickly during peak hiking season from October to February.

Are Guided Walking Trips Suitable for Travellers Over Fifty

Yes. Many travellers aged fifty to seventy choose guided walks because they offer reassurance, achievable pacing and comfortable accommodation.
Guides check in regularly throughout the day, monitor conditions and offer support when terrain becomes challenging. On selected itineraries, support vehicles add further flexibility.
Walks are graded from easy to challenging so travellers can choose a route that suits their fitness level. The team assists with matching each person to the right itinerary.
Why Self Guided Walks Are a Strong Alternative
Self guided walking holidays are increasingly popular in New Zealand, particularly among travellers who want independence combined with reliable logistics.
A self guided walking trip with Great Walks of New Zealand includes:

Accommodation bookings
Luggage transfers
Route notes, maps and safety information
Local support and emergency contacts
Optional gear hire
Flexibility to set your own pace

This style suits confident solo travellers, active couples, families and returning visitors who enjoy exploring on their own with support available if needed.
Popular self guided routes include:

Hump Ridge
Tongariro Crossing
Queen Charlotte Track
Nydia Track
Old Ghost Road

Interest in Island Hills and other emerging trails is growing as travellers seek unique alternatives to the classic Great Walks.

How Great Walks of New Zealand Supports Responsible Travel

Responsible travel is central to the company’s approach. The goal is to help walkers experience New Zealand’s landscapes in a low impact and culturally respectful way.
Key commitments include:

Small group sizes to protect the environment
Accommodations and camps that use efficient energy systems
Waste minimisation practices
Partnerships with iwi, landowners and conservation groups
Encouraging Leave No Trace behaviours.
This ensures trails remain healthy and accessible for future generations.

Why Travellers Choose Great Walks of New Zealand for Guided or Self Guided Hiking Trips

Travellers choose Great Walks of New Zealand because the company combines comfort with adventure and offers complete clarity throughout the planning and walking process.
Walkers value:

Choice between guided and self guided walking holidays
Trip grades for all fitness levels
Authentic local insight from experienced guides
Comfortable accommodation before and after long walking days
Genuine sustainability efforts
Supportive environment for solo travellers
Deep and meaningful access to landscapes and communities

Great Walks of New Zealand attracts travellers from New Zealand and Australia as well as strong visitor interest from the USA, UK, Canada and emerging markets in Singapore and Europe.