6 amazing multi-day hikes to experience in the North Island

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What you need to know about hiking in the North Island

Before you set out on your North Island adventure, a bit of preparation can make all the difference between a good hike and a great one. Here's what you need to consider:

Book your spot: Popular spots fill up fast, so book your campsites early. It's not just about securing a place to sleep; it's about knowing you've got a safe spot to wind down after a day's trek.
Watch the weather: New Zealand’s weather likes to keep you guessing, regardless of the season! Sunscreen and hats are just as essential as your raincoat and warm layers. A quick check of the forecast can be the difference between being caught out and comfortably carrying on.
Pack smart: The charm of the North Island's backcountry huts and campsites lies in their simplicity, which means you'll need to be self-sufficient. Make a list of what you'll need to include in your hiking pack, such as your sleeping and cooking gear, and pack accordingly.

Why you should book a campervan hire for your hiking trip

Ready to tick off some of the best multi-day hikes in the North Island of NZ? Here's why travelling by campervan hire is such a popular choice.

Shower and bathroom onboard: After a long hike, there's nothing like the comfort of a warm shower and your own clean bathroom. No need to rough it when you've got a campervan waiting at the end of your trail.
Keep your devices charged: Want your phone and camera ready to capture every moment? Charge them up in the campervan before you head out. It's all about staying connected and ready to snap those breathtaking views.
Meal prep made easy: Forget about munching on cold beans. With a campervan, you've got your own mobile kitchen. Whip up a hearty hot breakfast to fuel your hike and enjoy a hot cuppa and your favourite snack when you get back.
Flexibility with your plans: Weather not playing ball? No room in the hiking huts? No worries. With a campervan, you've got the freedom to stay extra nights and wait for the perfect hiking conditions. It's all about flexibility and making the most of your trip.

READ MORE: Everything you need to know about the Great Walks of New Zealand

Image: Tourism New Zealand

The best multi-day hikes in the North Island

With so many great multi-day hikes in the North Island, it can be hard to know which one is best for you. To help narrow down your choices, here are our top picks:

Cape Brett Track, Northland

The Cape Brett Track takes you through rugged but beautiful terrain, stretching 16.3 km one way and taking around eight hours to complete. Known for its challenging paths, this track is not for the faint-hearted but rewards hikers with dramatic coastal views and steep cliffs that add a thrill to the experience.

Duration: It's a 2-day trek, giving you ample time to soak in the vistas.

Difficulty: Advanced, it's a trail that tests and rewards in equal measure.

Scenery: The track offers some fantastic coastal scenery, with the ocean stretching out as far as the eye can see. If you’re lucky, you may even spot dolphins and seals.

Getting there: The track begins from Oke Bay in Rawhiti. Access is also available from the landing at Deep Water Cove (a water taxi is available from Russell, Paihia and Rawhiti).

Where to stay: Overnight accommodation is available at Cape Brett Hut, a serviced hut with 23 bunk beds, cooking facilities, mattresses, non-flush toilets, and non-treated water. Be sure to book ahead. And if you’re looking for a good campground nearby to park up before or after your hike, head along to the Russell TOP 10 Holiday Park.

Te Whara Track, Northland

The Te Whara Track offers a journey through time and nature, winding through coastal forests to unveil a breathtaking 360-degree panorama. This 7.5 km trail, taking around 5-6 hours one way, is a testament to the rich heritage of Northland's Māori ancestors and the natural beauty of the region.

Duration: Typically a day hike, allow 5-6 hours to fully engage with the trail's wonders.

Difficulty: Intermediate, with a mix of steep and undulating terrains that challenge and reward.

Scenery: The track is renowned for its pristine coastal forest and expansive views. Along the way, you might encounter historical sites, including WWII radar station ruins, adding a layer of intrigue to your hike.

Getting there: Just 38 km from Whangārei, the track is accessible from two main points: the Ocean Beach car park on Ranui Road and the Urquharts Bay car park. You have the flexibility to start your hike from either end, allowing you to tailor your experience to your preferences. For those looking for a shorter hike, consider using the Peach Cove Track entrance as your starting or ending point.

Where to stay: For a convenient overnight park-up nearby, the Ocean Beach Carpark allows freedom camping (unpowered). It's a prime spot for adventurers looking to start their hike at the trail's Ocean Beach end. The carpark allows for a one-night stay with basic facilities.

Aotea track, Auckland

For a truly special hiking experience, plan a trip across Auckland’s harbour to Great Barrier Island. The Aotea Track is a captivating hike through diverse landscapes, offering everything from serene wetlands to ancient kauri forests. Spanning 2-3 days, this track offers a blend of easy walks and challenging climbs, making it a rewarding experience for both novice and seasoned hikers.

Duration: Prepare for a 2-3 day adventure spanning 10-25 km depending on which tracks you choose.

Difficulty: Classified as advanced, the track includes a mix of easy paths and more demanding sections, suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness.

Scenery: Expect a visual feast of native bush, tranquil wetlands, and towering kauri, rimu, and kahikatea trees. The track's varied landscapes provide a stunning backdrop and a chance to encounter unique wildlife.

Getting there: Great Barrier Island is accessible via a 4.5-hour ferry ride from Auckland (or a short flight), with the track itself starting from various points across the island. The journey to the island is part of the adventure, offering a chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. The good news is, you can take your campervan onboard the Sealink Ferry.

Where to stay: Along the Aotea Track, you'll find well-maintained huts, including Mt Heale Hut and Kaiaraara Hut, offering basic amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Booking in advance is essential, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot in these idyllic resting places. For parking up in your campervan, you’ll find several excellent DOC campgrounds on offer including Medlands Beach Campground which is just a minute’s walk from the beautiful beach.

Tongariro Northern Circuit

The Tongariro Northern Circuit weaves through the heart of Tongariro National Park, showcasing a landscape of glacial valleys, ancient lava flows, and alpine vegetation. This 44.9 km loop track, typically completed in 3-4 days, will take you through some of the most dramatic landscapes in New Zealand.

Duration: 3-4 days.

Difficulty: With an intermediate rating, it caters to those with a good level of fitness and some hiking experience.

Scenery: From emerald lakes to thermal springs, the circuit is a showcase of the park's geological wonders and alpine beauty.

Getting there: The circuit starts and ends at Whakapapa Village. Be sure to stop by the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre for directions to parking areas and to pick up a free parking permit.

Where to stay: The circuit has three DOC huts – Mangatepopo, Oturere, and Waihohonu – each requires booking in advance during the Great Walks season. These huts offer basic amenities like bunks, mattresses, heating, and toilets, but remember to bring your own food and cooking utensils.

For a good spot to stay in your motorhome before or after your hike, the National Park Village Park and Ride KiwiCamp offers a convenient base with facilities tailored for campervan travellers. You can park up here and use the facilities, including showers, laundry, dump station, WiFi, and more.

Whirinaki Track, East Coast

Tucked away in the Whirinaka Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park, the Whirinaki Track invites you on a 25.6 km hike through some of the most ancient and majestic forests in New Zealand. Spanning two days, this track takes you through towering beech and podocarp forests.

Duration: This 2-day trek is an immersive experience into the heart of primeval New Zealand forest.

Difficulty: Rated as intermediate, the track is accessible to those with a moderate level of fitness and offers a rewarding challenge.

Scenery: Prepare to be awed by the lush, lowland podocarp forests, home to a diverse range of birdlife and ancient trees that stand as sentinels of time.

Getting there: The track is 90 km south of Rotorua and can be started at either the northern entrance – the River Road carpark, or southern entrance – the Plateau carpark.

Where to stay: The Central Whirinaki Hut, around 16 km into the track, has bunk beds, heating, toilets, and untreated water. For a good campground nearby, the Murupara Motor Camp is a handy option

Boyd, Oamaru and Cascade Hut tracks, Central North Island

The Boyd, Oamaru, and Cascade Hut Tracks in Kaimanawa Forest Park offer a multi-day tramping experience through diverse landscapes, including lush beech forests, river crossings, and the opportunity to observe wildlife. These tracks allow for a customisable experience, with several huts and access points to tailor your trip.

Duration: Depending on your chosen route and pace, these combined tracks can take 2-4 days to complete.

Difficulty: Classified as advanced, the tracks are suited for experienced trampers prepared for a variety of terrains and river crossings.

Scenery: Expect to be surrounded by dense native bush, with the tracks offering stunning views of the forest canopy and the chance to spot native birds and other wildlife.

Getting there: The tracks are located within the Kaimanawa Forest Park. 27 km east of Taupo turn right off SH5 (Napier Taupo Road) into Taharua Road and follow for 9.5 km. Turn right into Clements Mill Road - it is 21 km to the end of this road.

Where to stay: Along the tracks, you'll find huts such as the Boyd, Oamaru, and Cascade Huts, providing basic shelter and amenities. These huts must be booked in advance, especially during peak seasons. Facilities typically include bunks, toilets, and water supply, but trampers should be self-sufficient in terms of food and personal gear.

For comfy campervan parking nearby, check out the Turangi Holiday Park.

Ready to hike the North Island?

From ancient forests to rambling rivers, the North Island’s multi-day walks each offer something truly special. And there’s simply no better way to make the most of them to plan a campervan road trip.

Ready to tick a few of these awesome North Island hikes off your bucket list? Dig out those hiking boots, dust off your backpack, and book your maui motorhome online today. Adventure awaits!

READ MORE: Discover 6 amazing multi-day hikes in the South Island