New Zealand is renowned for its areas of natural beauty and one of the best ways to experience this for yourself is to visit some of the country’s national parks. In total, there are 13 national parks spread across the islands, so if you decide to travel to New Zealand, you may need to be selective and find the best options to squeeze into your trip.
So what are the best national parks in New Zealand and what can you see and do in each of these locations?
Tongariro National Park
Located on the Northern Island, Tongariro National Park is the oldest national park in New Zealand and a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition to housing several Māori sites of interest and the active volcanoes of Tongariro, Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe, the national park is famed for its Tongariro Alpine Crossing, which is one of the most famous one-day hikes anywhere on the planet and a very popular option for active visitors to New Zealand.
Abel Tasman National Park
If you have booked your New Zealand flights with the intention of experiencing the country’s incredible beaches, Abel Tasman National Park is going to be the ideal destination. While it is the smallest national park in New Zealand, it is also one of the busiest. In particular, the sandy coastal areas, like Tōtaranui and Anapai Bay, attract a large number of visitors. The Abel Tasman Coast Track stretches for almost 40 miles and can be accessed all year round.
Fiordland National Park
The largest national park in New Zealand, Fiordland National Park is spread across more than 4,800 square miles and includes one of the country’s most famous tourist attractions, the Milford Sound. If you want to experience the natural wonders of New Zealand’s forests, the Kepler Track is a perfect hiking route and the full route will take several days to complete. Meanwhile, for animal lovers, the Doubtful Sound is home to dolphins, seals, whales and penguins.
Westland Tai Poutini National Park
If you are seeking truly unique and breathtaking experiences, Westland Tai Poutini National Park could be the best national park in New Zealand. Within its boundaries are the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, which are among the most accessible glaciers anywhere in the world. In addition to a memorable helicopter glacier tour, you will be able to explore mountain terrain, forests and the natural hot springs found along the 16-mile Copland Track.
