Great Walks of New Zealand
Book Accommodation
The Great Walks are situated in some of the most remote parts of New Zealand. Staying in accommodation close to the beginning and end of the track is convenient, as many accommodation places will store excess luggage for you whilst on the track. Often accommodation providers are connected with many of the transport operators in the area. This makes travelling and booking activities easier and Kiwis are always pretty helpful.
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Consider booking accommodation with free cancellation and fully refundable options close to your trip dates. We were very grateful for this option during COVID and weather events that closed the Routeburn Track, allowing us to reschedule at a later date.
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Check out each walk below and recommendations of which towns to base yourself in depending on what your vibe is, including some recommendations on places to stay.
Abel Tasman Coastal Track
The Abel Tasman National Park is a popular tourist destination in New Zealand. The Abel Tasman Coastal Track is one of the most accessible Great Walks. You can complete parts of the track as day walks with water taxis servicing many of the beaches within the park.
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Kaiteriteri
Our recommendation is Kaiteriteri which is a small town 20mins drive from the start of the track. Kaiteriteri is seriously beautiful with a golden beach for those morning swims, a well-stocked general store, and lots of good eateries. All water taxis depart from Kaiteriteri beach to and from the Abel Tasman National Park.​​​
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$ - $$$ Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve sits opposite the beach and next to the general store. Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve offers accommodation options for all budgets so there is something for everyone. There are campsites, campervan sites, apartments and cabins available. The apartments are above the general store and are really well appointed with everything you could need and staff happily stored our gear whilst on the track.
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Mapua
Mapua is a charming seaside town 30 mins drive from Nelson on the way to the Abel Tasman National Park. Mapua has lots of restaurants/bars, quirky shops, and art galleries.​
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$$ Korepo Lodge - is an amazing option for a big group. The lodge is a large, beautiful villa with great indoor/outdoor flow. It has everything you need including comfortable rooms and beds.
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$$ Mapua Wharfside Apartments - are located beachfront in the heart of Mapua, close to the shops and restaurants with excellent apartments and views.
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Nelson
Nelson is the closest airport to the Abel Tasman Track. Nelson city has lots of accommodation choices with plenty of shops to get those last-minute supplies. Nelson is approx 1hr drive to the start of the track at Marahau.
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$ Bridge Backpackers - If you are on a budget but still want some central and nice digs try Bridge Backpackers.
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$$ Hotel Nelson - If you are happy to pay a little more, Hotel Nelson, is close to the city center and offers studio and apartment accommodation.
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$$$ The Sails Nelson - If you are happy to spend a little for luxurious and modern accommodation, try The Sails Nelson which is close to the city center, shops and restaurants.
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Where to Stay
Heaphy Track
The Heaphy Track can be walked in either direction and traverses from Brown Hut in Golden Bay (2hrs 30mins from Nelson) to Kohaihai on the West Coast (1hr 30mins from Westport).
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Golden Bay
Golden Bay is a stunning region located 2hrs from Nelson city near Brown Hut at the beginning of the Heaphy Track. Known for its golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, it's a nature lover's paradise. The area is also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene.
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$$ Collingwood Park Motel - is located in Collingwood only 35mins to the Brown Hut at the start of the Heaphy Track. The motel is 3 min walk from the beach and a 5 min walk to local cafes and shops.
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$ Golden Bay Holiday Park - is located in Parapara on the beachfront. The holiday park offers campsites, campervan sites, cabins, and beach apartments. The holiday park is rural, so is more suitably for those that have vehicles.
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$$ Shady Bed and Breakfast - located in Takaka and handy to get any last-minute supplies from the town. The B&B offers family rooms, private bathrooms, separate entrances, and includes breakfast.
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Nelson
Nelson is the closest main city to the Heaphy Track. Nelson city has lots of accommodation choices with plenty of shops to get those last-minute supplies. The drive takes approx 2hrs 30mins to the start of the track at Brown Hut (Golden Bay).
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$ Bridge Backpackers - If you are on a budget but still want some central and nice digs try Bridge Backpackers.
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$$ Hotel Nelson - If you are happy to pay a little more, Hotel Nelson, is close to the city center and offers studio and apartment accommodation.
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$$$ The Sails Nelson - If you are happy to spend a little for luxurious and modern accommodation, try The Sails Nelson which is close to the city center, shops and restaurants.
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Karamea
Karamea is a small town located on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island and is situated at the other end of the Heaphy Track near Kohaihai. With a friendly local community and a laid-back atmosphere, it is known for its natural beauty, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and rugged mountains.
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​$ - $$ Last Resort Karamea - located in Karamea only 300m walk to town. The Last Resort offers budgets friendly rooms with a restaurant, bar, and coffee shop available onsite.
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$$ Karamea Village Hotel - is in a great location in the heart of Karamea. The hotel offers family rooms, private bathrooms, a restaurant and bar, with friendly staff.
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$$$ Riverstone Retreat Karamea - if you are looking or a little luxury after your hike Riverstone Retreat offers 4-star chalets. Located in a quiet and peaceful location, approx 30mins drive from Karamea.
Where to Stay
Hump Ridge Track
The Hump Ridge Track is also in the Fiordland National Park at the very bottom of the South Island like Kepler, Milford, and Routeburn tracks. The track is located 30mins drive from Tuatapere. Tuatapere is a very small settlement 1hrs drive from the city of Invercargill where the closest airport is located.
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Tuatapere
Our recommendation is to stay in Tuatapere close to the track. The days are very long on the Hump Ridge, and we recommend resting up in this cute little town with the lovely locals. Our recommendation is hands down the Last Light Lodge.
$ - $$ Last Light Lodge - has campsites, campervan sites, and recently renovated lodge rooms with shared bathrooms. The owners are a lovely family, and the food is absolutely amazing with a farm to table concept. Definitely book in for the dinner and pick up some homemade chutney or a packed lunch for the hike.
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$$$ The Cliffs Seaside Lodge - If you are looking for a little bit of luxury, the lodge has lovely rooms, stunning sea views with access to the beach. The lodge boasts a restaurant and can offer shuttle services at a cost if required.
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Te Anau
Te Anau is a charming town located in the South Island of New Zealand. It is situated on the shores of Lake Te Anau, the largest lake in the South Island, and is the gateway to the stunning Fiordland National Park. More laid back and tranquil than Queenstown if you are looking for a slower pace.
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$ - $$ Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers - is located on Te Anau lakefront a short walk to the town center. The backpackers offer glamping tents, ensuites rooms, and dorms. The accommodation is affordable and nicer than your average backpackers.
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$ - $$ Top 10 Te Anau Holiday Park - The Top 10 Holiday Parks in NZ are always good value and clean, with well-maintained facilities. Includes campsites, campervan sites, and cabins to suit every budget. Close to town and the supermarket for supplies.
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$$ Lakefront Lodge - offers self-contained ground floor units opposite Lake Te Anau. Only a 400m walk to the town center and the rooms are well appointed including cooking facilities.
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Queenstown
Queenstown is a picturesque town located in the South Island and is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand. It is surrounded by stunning mountains and crystal-clear lakes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and overseas visitors. The town itself is vibrant and lively, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore. Accommodation options are plentiful, but book in advance if you want to secure particular places as Queenstown is very popular.
Where to Stay
Kepler, Milford, and Routeburn Tracks
The Kepler, Milford and Routeburn tracks are all located in the stunning Fiordland National park. Many hikers will base themselves in either Te Anau or Queenstown before and after the track.
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Te Anau
Te Anau is a charming town located in the South Island of New Zealand. It is situated on the shores of Lake Te Anau, the largest lake in the South Island, and is the gateway to the stunning Fiordland National Park. More laid back and tranquil than Queenstown if you are looking for a slower pace.
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$ - $$ Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers - is located on Te Anau lakefront a short walk to the town center. The backpackers offer glamping tents, ensuites rooms, and dorms. The accommodation is affordable and nicer than your average backpackers.
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$ - $$ Top 10 Te Anau Holiday Park - The Top 10 Holiday Parks in NZ are always good value and clean, with well-maintained facilities. Includes campsites, campervan sites, and cabins to suit every budget. Close to town and the supermarket for supplies.
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$$ Lakefront Lodge - offers self-contained ground floor units opposite Lake Te Anau. Only a 400m walk to the town center and the rooms are well appointed including cooking facilities.
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Milford Sound
Milford Sound is a breathtaking fjord known for its stunning natural beauty, with towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear waters. Hikers will finish the Milford Track by boat ride to Milford Sound.
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​$$ - $$$ Milford Sound Lodge - Located 1km from the wharf in a magical location and is a great place to rest after completing the Milford Track. Lovely accommodation by the river with amazing views of the night sky on a clear night.
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Queenstown
Queenstown is a picturesque town located in the South Island, and is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand. It is surrounded by stunning mountains and crystal-clear lakes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The town itself is vibrant and lively, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore.
Where to Stay
Lake Waikaremoana Track
Lake Waikaremoana is very much off the beaten path and is difficult to access without a car. The best accommodation option is Waikaremoana Holiday Park, which is close to the start of the track. Make sure you get all your supplies before you arrive. There is a small shop at the holiday park with very basic supplies, but it does not have reliable opening hours.
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Due to the remoteness of Lake Waikaremoana, there are limited accommodation options nearby.
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$ - $$ Waikaremoana Holiday Park - Situated on the shores of Lake Waikaremoana, this holiday park is run by the Department of Conservation (DOC). Campsites, campervan sites and chalets are available for booking. Water taxis can be arranged to pick you up from the holiday park to help you access the Great Walk.
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Where to Stay
Paparoa Track
The Paparoa Track is located on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. The closest airport to the track is Hokitika which is approx a 30min drive to Greymouth.
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Punakaiki
Punakaiki a small coastal community located on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. It is known for its unique rock formations, the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. The Paparoa Track finishes in Punakaiki, which makes it a great place to rest and recuperate before or after the hike. You will need to get any last-minute supplies elsewhere before arriving.
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$ - $$$ Punakaiki Beach Camp - A range of accommodation options for every budget including campsites, campervan sites, holiday homes, and cabins. The Beach Camp can also help organize your track transport if needed.
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$$ Punakaiki Beach Front Motels - offers a range of beachfront accommodation including family units, cabins, and studio units. Homely and well-appointed with everything you need before your hike. Close to the pub/restaurant and a short walk to Pancake Rocks.
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$$$ Scenic Hotel Punakaiki - offers well-appointed hotel rooms on the beachfront with ocean views. A 2min drive to the Paparoa Track trailhead in Punakaiki. Offers continental breakfast and has an onsite restaurant and bar.
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Greymouth
Greymouth is the largest closest town to the Paparoa Track (approx 40mins to Smoke-Ho car park or Punakaiki). A great base with its friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere, Greymouth has plenty of accommodation options, eateries, and shops for all those necessary supplies.
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$ Global Village Travellers Lodge - offers budget friendly rooms with shared bathrooms. Offers free bicycles, shared kitchen, living, and fitness room for guests.
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$-$$$ Greymouth Seaside TOP 10 Holiday Park - located on the beachfront in Greymouth. The holiday park offers a range of accommodation options to suits all budgets including campsites, campervan sites, cabins, motels and luxury apartments.
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$$ Coleraine Suites & Apartments - is located only 2mins to the town center. Offers spacious rooms with dining and seating areas including kitchenette facilities.
Where to Stay
Rakiura
The Rakiura Track is located on Stewart Island, a small island off the southern coast of the South Island. Stewart Island's main town is Oban where most accommodation is found and is conveniently only a 5km walk to the Rakiura Track. Accommodation is harder to secure than hut tickets as this is a less popular walk, so get your accommodation sorted first.
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Oban
Stewart Island is very small and most accommodation is located in the main town of Oban located approx 5km from either end of the track.
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$ Stewart Island Backpackers - offers a range of accommodation including campsites, dorm rooms, doubles, single, and twin rooms. Buget friendly and centrally located.
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$$ Kaka Motel Retreat - is located a 5min walk to town and only 400m from the ferry terminal. Studios, two- and three-bedroom chalets are available.
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$$$ Church Hill Boutique Lodge & Restaurant -offers 5-star rooms with balconies and a highly rated restaurant. Free shuttle service is provided for guests from the airport.
Where to stay
Tongariro Northern Circuit / Alpine Crossing
The Tongariro National Park is located in New Zealand's North Island, in the central part of the country. It is a World Heritage Site and one of oldest national parks in the world. The park is known for its stunning volcanic landscapes, including the three active volcanoes of Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu. Due to its central location, hikers can stay in many surrounding towns.
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Whakapapa Village
The Tongariro Northern Circuit begins and ends at the village, so it is a convenient place to begin or end the track from. Whakapapa Village is very small, so get your hiking supplies before arriving. It is a popular ski town during winter being close to the ski field. Many accommodation providers will offer free shuttle services to and from the National Park so you can save on transportation.
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$ Whakapapa Holiday Park - offers a variety of accommodation for all budgets including campsites, campervan sites, dorm private rooms, and cabins.
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$$ Skotel Alpine Resort - offers a restaurant, a hot tub and terrace bar with a fireplace. A variety of accommodation options available including dorms, rooms with private and shared bathrooms.
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National Park Village
National Park Village has the most accommodation options available if staying close to the National Park. It is a popular ski town being close to Whakapapa ski area. It is on the train line stop for the Northern Explorer Train service that goes from Auckland to Wellington. Many accommodation providers will offer free shuttle services to and from the National Park, so you can save on transportation.
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$$ Plateau Lodge - offers studios, rooms, and apartments with shared or private bathrooms. Located only 15mins drive from Tongariro National Park with a shuttle service available.
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$$$ Tongariro Crossing Lodge - offers beautiful suites private bathrooms in picturesque, landscaped gardens. Offers in-room continental breakfasts.
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Taupo
Taupo is a busy tourist town located in the central North Island situated on the shores of Lake Taupo, which is the largest lake in the country. Taupo is a popular destination, known for its stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and geothermal attractions. Many operators provide transport to and from Taupo to the Tongariro National Park for a cost.
Where to stay
Whanganui River Journey
The Whanganui River is located in the North Island of New Zealand. It is the longest river in the country, stretching for 290 km from the Tongariro National Park to the Tasman Sea. The river is known for its stunning scenery, rich cultural history, and recreational activities such as kayaking and jet boating.
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Taumaranui
Taumaranui is where the Whanganui Great Walk begins from and is a great option to stay at before and after your journey. Taumaranui is a little town but has plenty of shops for any last-minute supplies. It is also a great place to base yourself if you are cycling the Timber Trail.
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Taumarunui Canoe & Jet Tours - offers free campsites available to stay at before and after the Whanganui River Journey if booking canoes with them.
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$ Kelly's Riverside Motel - tidy, well-presented rooms close to shops and eateries.
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Ohakune
Ohakune is a charming town located in the Central North Island. It is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts in winter due to its proximity to the ski fields and has lots of accommodation options available. The town also has a variety of bars, restaurants and a supermarket for last-minute supplies. If you are family or group, Ohakune offers a ton of holiday homes to rent, so check Air BnB or some other options below.
$ - $$ Ohakune Top 10 Holiday Park - Top 10 Holiday Parks are always good value and offer campsites, campervan sites, cabins and motel units to suit all budgets.
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$$Snowman Lodge and Spa - offers accommodation, rice bar and food, and a spa. Offers a range of en-suite rooms, cabins, and budget rooms with shared bathroom facilities to suit everyone.
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$$$Powderhorn Chateau - If you are looking for a mountain chalet vibe, the Powderhorn Chateau is unique accommodation including rooms, apartments, and chalets. Has a great restaurant and bar on site.
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Raetihi
Raetihi is a small town only a 15min drive from Ohakune.
$ Raetihi Holiday Park - Whanganui River Canoes owns the Raetihi Holiday Park. If you are considering holiday park accommodation this is a great option as the canoes and transport can also be organized for you, making planning much easier.