Custom Travel Itineraries to
New Zealand since 1990
Custom Travel Itineraries to
New Zealand since 1990
New Zealand’s legendary Great Walks offer great hiking experiences, and with bookings for next season opening soon, now is the time to plan your adventure! The New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC) has announced that bookings will open between 13 and 28 May 2025, with a new queue system to handle high demand.
And if last season is anything to go by, interest in these iconic trails is only growing. Bookings were up 5% this past summer, with more International visitors and New Zealanders both hitting the tracks than ever before. According to DOC’s Director of Heritage and Visitors, Cat Wilson, New Zealanders accounted for 67% of all bednights booked between 15 December 2024 and 26 January 2025—a significant increase from 60% pre-pandemic.
So, if you’re planning to trek the Milford Track or conquer the Kepler, here’s everything you need to know about securing your spot.
To manage demand, DOC is staggering booking dates:
15 May – Heaphy Track, Kepler Track, Rakiura Track, Hump Ridge.
22 May – Whanganui Journey, Routeburn Track, Tongariro Northern Circuit.
27 May – Lake Waikaremoana Track, Abel Tasman Coast Track, Paparoa Track.
28 May – Milford Track
Bookings open at 9:30 AM NZT on each date. Be ready—the Milford Track can sell out within minutes!
If you’re looking for backcountry huts, lodges, or campsites, here’s when to book:
13 May – Backcountry huts, lodges, sole occupancy facilities.
20 May – Conservation campsites (except Tōtaranui, Momorangi, Anaura Bay).
21 May – Momorangi and Anaura Bay campsites.
4 June – Tōtaranui campsite
With international travel back to normal, it’s notable that Kiwis are still dominating the trails. More New Zealanders than ever are exploring their backyard, accounting for over 45,000 bednights on Great Walks this summer. Whether it’s a post-pandemic mindset shift or just a newfound love for the outdoors, local adventurers are embracing these trails like never before.
✅ Plan Early – Decide on your top tracks and check availability.
✅ Set Up Your DOC Account – Log in beforehand for a quicker booking process.
✅ Be Online Before 9:30 AM NZT– The most popular tracks sell out fast.
✅ Have a Backup Plan – If your first choice is gone, be ready to grab another spot.
✅ Consider Shoulder Seasons – Avoid peak crowds by booking outside December–February.
New Zealand’s Great Walks aren’t just hikes—they’re immersive journeys through some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned tramper or a first-time explorer, 2025-26 is shaping up to be another incredible season on the trails.
If interested to travel to New Zealand and hike, but with perhaps more luxurious accommodations, please don’t hesitate to contact one of our Experts. Since 1990 we have focused on New Zealand and can help provide a great time in the country, combining day trips with other fun activities!
