New Zealand's next Great Walk is set to open this autumn

There’s no better way to soak in Aotearoa New Zealand’s awe-inspiring landscapes than by exploring them on foot. That’s why the country's Great Walks are some of the best ways to experience its epic scenery, cultural heritage and rare wildlife.

Currently, there are 10 Great Walks in Aotearoa New Zealand, stretching along more than 14,000km of track – but launching in autumn 2024 (spring in New Zealand) will be an exciting eleventh route.

Just a two-hour drive from Queenstown, the Tuatapere Hump Ridge track will be a 61km-long trail that takes approximately three days to complete. The new path will traverse the South Island’s south coast, with views of Fiordlands, the Southern Ocean and Stewart Island to enjoy en route. 

Due to its terrain over clifftops, along deserted coastlines and through ancient forests, walkers are advised to have an intermediate level of walking experience. 

There are a variety of options for people wanting to take on the Great Walk. The Freedom Walk provides multi-share accommodation at Okaka and Port Craig Lodges, whereas the Prime Package is for those who are after a little more luxury.

For ramblers wanting to gain as much from the experience as possible, a guided walk will allow you to learn about the region you’re treading through, including its important connections to Māori culture.

New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC) has worked with the Ōraka Aparima Rūnaka local council to ensure this new route shares the rich heritage and stories of the rūnaka (council) and their tupuna (ancestors), with portions of the profits going towards supporting community projects.

But that’s not all for Aotearoa  New Zealand’s new walking routes in 2024. Later in the year will also see the launch of the Kawatiri Coastal Trail, a 50km heritage pathway for both cyclists and walkers connecting the towns of Westport and Charleston on the west coast.

And if that wasn’t enough, the 210km Whale Trail – traversing the northeast coastline from Picton to Kaikōura – anticipates to veer adventurers to places off the tourist map.

For more information on Tuatapere Hump Ridge, go to humpridgetrack.co.nz