New Zealand: A couple of great walks

There are taller mountain ranges, bigger glaciers, longer fjords, prettier beaches, but no where puts them all together like New Zealand. This has to be the best hiking destination in the world. They have excellent infrastructure, lodges, signage, planning tools, plus didn’t feel crowded and there is a huge variety of terrain. They also classify a few “great walks” (still haven’t figured out the difference between a tramp and a walk). For this trip we had a couple in mind, Routeburn Track and Abel Tasman.

Routeburn Track was a two-day one night hike on the south island, 33km. We started in Fjordland and ends in Mt Aspiring National Park. We reserved one night at Lake Mackenzie hut. Our hike started at the divide. First day was a wet one but made the waterfalls particularly gorgeous. Earland falls (174m) is right beside the route. Lots of unique fauna too. We hiked upwards until you reach harris saddle on day 2 crossing through some alpine grasslands and great views. From there it is a spectacular decent, through further cascasdes of waterfalls opening into postcard Route Burn valley that ends in the river running along scenic forests all to the trail end.

We used a car service, Trackhopper, who legitimately get an extra copy of your rental car keys from agency, then drop your car off at the other trail head. Great service, wish more places had this.

We did this in 2012, remains one of my all time favourite short treks, the colours and landsacpes on day two were simply stunning, almost need to do it again with a better camera. Its not quite as tricky to book as Milfred –which you can certainly visit separately before/after – but still book ahead.

Able Tasman Coast Track:

This is a 60km coastal track on the northern portion of the south island. We were short on time so just sampled a part of this on a long day hike. As soon as we passed the first few km’s we found nearly deserted golden beaches. One after another. A very peaceful hike, not too challenging at all, but unless you love coastal hikes it's not really in the same league as Routeburn above to me.