So, you’re planning a trip around New Zealand’s South Island in the summer (December–February)? Between glacier-fed rivers, coastal tracks, alpine valleys, and epic stargazing, the South Island has some of the most unforgettable hikes in the world. While there are countless trails (or tracks as the kiwis call it) to choose from, these five stand out as absolute must-dos. Whether you’re after panoramic views, hot springs, or wildlife sightings, here are the hikes you won’t want to miss.
1. Mueller Hut Track – Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
If you’re looking for big mountain scenery without a multi-day trudge, Mueller Hut is your ticket. This steep but rewarding alpine track winds its way up countless stairs, rubble slopes, and rocky scrambles before reaching the hut, perched high above the Hooker Valley.
- Logistics: Overnight stays in the hut are $55 NZD per adult. Reservations are required in the high season (Nov 4 – Apr 30) and can be booked online. Even in low season (May 1 – Nov 3), you’ll need to check in at the Visitor Centre.
- Hut life: No tent needed! Just bring a sleeping bag, pillow, cookware, and food. Fresh rainwater and gas burners are provided.
- Highlights: The views of Mount Cook (Aoraki) and the Hooker Valley are jaw-dropping—far superior to what you’ll see from the much more crowded Hooker Valley Track. Spend the night for golden sunrises and out-of-this-world stargazing. On clear summer nights, set an alarm for 2 or 3 am to see the Milky Way blaze across the sky.
Pro tip: Drop your pack at the hut and scramble up the nearby peaks (snow conditions permitting) for 360° alpine vistas. Trekking poles are a huge help on the steep descent, especially if conditions are slick.
Imagine hiking all day along a lush river valley, crossing suspension bridges, then soaking in natural hot springs under the stars. That’s exactly what awaits you at Welcome Flats Hut on the Copland Track.
- Logistics: It’s a long but mostly flat hike in. Reservations are required for the hut ($30 NZD per bunk or $145 for the private Sierra Room which sleeps 1-4). Bring your own stove, gas, and utensils.
- Highlights: Once you arrive, head straight for the hot pools. Each pool is a different temperature, and if you’re feeling brave, alternate between the icy river plunge and the steamy springs. A quirky bonus? Slathering on sulfuric mud to ward off sandflies—it smells terrible but hey - anything to stop the sandflies…
For pristine beaches, turquoise water, and lush native bush, Abel Tasman National Park is unbeatable. The full coastal track stretches 60 km, but you can sample a section by taking a water taxi up the coast and hiking back in a day.
- Recommended section: Bark Bay to Marahau. Book your water taxi in advance and opt for an early departure to maximize beach time.
- Highlights: Along the way, you may be lucky in spotting little blue penguins bobbing in the surf. Watch out for the cheeky wekas rummaging through your pack when you set it down... Detour to Cleopatra’s Pool for a freshwater swim, or take a nap on the secluded Sandfly Bay.
- Finish strong: The trail ends in Marahau, conveniently close to The Park Cafe. It’s the perfect spot to refuel with hearty food and maybe even catch some live music.
Pro tip: Huts along the Abel Tasman track fill up fast, so book well in advance if you’re attempting the full multi-day experience.
You might have seen the Instagram-famous photo from Roy’s Peak, but this hike is far more than just a photo op. It’s one of the most iconic climbs on the South Island, with sweeping views over Lake Wanaka, Mount Aspiring, and the Southern Alps.
- Logistics: The track climbs steeply (4200 ft / 1280 m of gain), so trekking poles are a lifesaver. The trail is wide and well-defined, though slippery on descent.
- When to go: For maximum magic, start before dawn and catch the sunrise. Just be mindful of timing—it’s cold and windy up top, and you don’t want to freeze while waiting for the sun. Layers, gloves, and hot coffee are highly recommended.
- Bonus option: For a longer adventure, consider a one-way hike. Drop a car at the Skyline Ridge car park, then begin at Roy’s Peak Trailhead. This thru-route takes you up and over Mount Alpha before winding down to the valley—a big day but worth it to avoid the punishing descent. Might as well stop by That Wanaka Tree on your way out!
Want a good look at the Franz Josef Glacier without booking a helicopter tour? The Roberts Point Track is the way to go.
- The hike: A rainforest-clad trail with suspension bridges, river crossings, and a steady climb to one of the best glacier viewpoints accessible by foot. It’s adventurous, slightly slippery, and absolutely stunning.
- Pro tip: Start early—you’ll likely have the track to yourself at dawn, and the morning light on the glacier is spectacular. Trekking poles help on the damp rocks.
- Why this one: Compared to the more touristy Fox Glacier Track, Roberts Point feels wilder, quieter, and more immersive. You won’t step on the glacier itself (that requires a tour), but you’ll get as close as you can for free.
Final Thoughts
New Zealand’s South Island is a hiker’s paradise, with these five hikes showcasing the island’s diversity—snowy peaks, golden beaches, bubbling hot springs, and curious wildlife. Whether you’re stargazing from Mueller Hut, soaking in Welcome Flat’s hot pools, or chasing sunrise on Roy’s Peak, these hikes will leave you with memories as epic as the landscapes themselves.
✨ Ready to lace up your boots?
.png)
.png)
