AA Traveller and the Department of Conservation have released a first-of-its-kind joint walking guide packed full of information on Short Walks, Day Hikes and Great Walks from the top to bottom of New Zealand. 

While some Kiwi favourites are covered, Walking in New Zealand - from 30 minutes to multi-day also highlights beautiful less-frequented walks, as well as Landmarks Whenua Tohunga walks which showcase Aoteroa’s rich cultural heritage.

Safety is a key component of the guide, with details such as terrain, fitness level required and best times to walk covered. The guide features maps, track overviews, local tips and highlights, and information on places to stay.

AA Traveller Managing Editor Kath Webster says the guide has something for everyone from gentle strolls the whole family can do through to more challenging treks across valleys and through beech forests, following streams and climbing ridges.

“We’re expecting Walking in New Zealand to be hugely popular with both Kiwis and overseas visitors,” Ms Webster says.

“Through our partnership with DOC we’ve been able to produce a top quality guide with all the information people need before they put their walking shoes on and venture into our stunning natural environment.”

Department of Conservation Customer Engagement Director Heather Peacocke says DOC manages more than 14,500kms of track throughout our country to ensure all New Zealanders and visitors can enjoy walking in nature no matter what their ability.

“We know that spending time in nature makes us happier and helps improve our health and wellbeing,” she says.

“We are so pleased to work with AA Traveller to promote these walks and get people out there connecting with our spectacular scenery and unique wildlife.”

Walking in New Zealand is available free at AA Centres, DOC Visitor Centres, i-SITEs, airports and many accommodation, attraction and tour operators. An electronic version is also available at aatraveller.co.nz.

The guide follows AA Traveller’s highly successful New Zealand Cycle Trail Guide which is now in its fifth edition.