Our country is world famous for its scenery, so what better way to enjoy autumn than with the crunching of leaves under your feet? If you are wanting to get out into nature but don’t know where to start, don’t fret, as we’ve compiled a list of the best tramping spots in Aotearoa for first-time trampers.
Although some of these treks will require you to travel out of Auckland, if you can find the time to get away for a bit, nothing beats the refreshed and revitalised feeling of returning from days in the fresh air – and the spectacular views will be enough to keep you buzzing for weeks to come.
Canterbury offers a strong contender in the Mount Somers Track. This former miners’ track around the Mount Somers area offers plenty to look at with water caves, creeks, and the Emerald Pool, all accessible for trampers.
Accommodation at Woolshed Creek Hut in Hakatere Conservation Park requires a booking, but it is a great spot for families and new trampers. With panoramic views of the surrounding rocky outcrops as well as 26 bunks with mattresses, and toilets and hand washing facilities, this is the perfect spot for those that still want the home comforts often not available when you’re out in nature.
For a relatively easy tramp, the Wairarapa offers a two-hour trek around the Atiwhakatu River with swing bridges through native bush. Accommodation at the Atiwhakatu Hut is also situated right near the river making for an idyllic place to stay.
The slopes of Mount Taranaki make for another picturesque tramping location. The trip itself takes visitors around the mountain to accommodation at Holly Hut, a 32-bunk hut in Egmont National Park. Nearby sights to see include the Bells Falls and the Ahukawakawa Swamp.
Closer to home, there is a tramp that will still provide a great opportunity to get away from it all. The Palmer’s Track to Mount Heale on Great Barrier Island provides trampers with a scenic route through boardwalks as well as a beautiful kauri forest.
Accommodation at the Mount Heale Hut boasts incredible views of Little Barrier Island as well as the Hauraki Gulf and the summit.
However, if you’re anything like me, and the great outdoors at night just doesn’t sound that great to you, then you’re in luck. The Te Henga Walkway is the perfect option for something that still gives you the opportunity to see nature and spend a day in the fresh air. With three options of varying lengths, this cliff top walk from Te Hanga/Bethells Beach to Muriwai Beach also has plenty to offer for different fitness levels, and some gorgeous views along the way.
