1. Lane Cove Hut, Northland

New Zealand’s northernmost hut sits right on the water’s edge, and the beach and two river crossings make great spots to play in summertime. The walk is a little less formed than some and can get muddy, but it is still easy enough for children. Add excitement by returning to Totara North by water taxi. Booking required.

Distance 5.6km one way

Grade Moderate

Age 4+

2. Bougainville Memorial, Northland

A coastal day outing on Te Araroa Trail that combines part of Whananaki Coastal Walkway with a sidetrack to Bougainville Memorial. There are big attractions at either end – the Southern Hemisphere’s longest wooden footbridge and the clifftop shipwreck memorial – with opportunities to swim, picnic and fossick in between. If starting from Whananaki South, you can shorten the walk by first exploring the bridge and settlement at North Whananaki, then drive to the end of Pukekawa Road. From here, at low tide, there’s the option of walking one-way to the monument via the beach and up the steep track. Otherwise, it’s a gradual ascent across farmland and through pine forest to the memorial.

Distance 9.7km return

Grade Easy

Age 6+

3. Peach Cove Hut, Northland

Adventurous kids will jump at the challenge of this overnighter on Te Araroa Trail with the climb up Mt Lion (395m), some spectacular drop-offs and an 800-step descent to a cosy hut close to the beach. Start at Ocean Beach or Urquharts Bay. Te Whara Track follows an ancient Māori path that passes through mature coastal forest in Bream Head Scenic Reserve. Look out for kākāriki, tūī, kererū and toutouwai, and listen for ruru at night. Consider adding gentler Smugglers Bay Loop Track (3km) with WWII gun emplacements and views to Marsden Point. Booking required.

Distance 9km one way

Grade Moderate

Age 8+

4. Tāwharanui Ecology Trail, Auckland

For feathered friend encounters and a fun day out for the littlest legs, this is hard to beat. The chance of spotting takahē, tīeke, kererū, pīwakawaka and others is high due to the predator-proof fence that rims the park. From the main Takatu Road car park, follow yellow markers past Sanctuary Hut, along the stream, across a bridge and through the forest. Return via the farm road or complete the bigger loop (an extra 1km) along the rocky shore to sandy Waikokowai Bay. Camping available.

Distance 3.3km

Grade Easy

Age 3.5+

5. Otarawao Sullivans Bay to Te Muri Beach, Auckland

An overnighter or day walk with a remote feel. Make it a mini-hike by heading uphill to Cudlip Point then descending to the estuary – cross 2hr either side of low tide. Sandy Te Muri Beach is nature’s playground: swim, build sandcastles, explore rockpools, climb the huge pōhutukawa, stargaze at night.

Tip: if ferrying heavy camping gear, use the shortcut from the park entrance on Ngarewa Road.

Distance 5km return (shortcut back)

Grade Easy

Age 4+

6. Pinnacles Hut, Thames

Beautiful forest, some consistent climbing and a great stream to paddle in about halfway will provide plenty of variety on this 3hr hike to New Zealand’s largest hut. With resident games, a cold shower and even a gas BBQ, it makes a great overnight spot. Don’t miss the hike to the summit with fun wire rungs and ladders. Booking required.

Distance 6km one way

Grade Moderate

Age 5+

7. Matiatia to Oneroa Loop, Auckland 

Hop off the Waiheke ferry and you’re almost on the track – around the rocks to the left at low tide or over the hill if it’s high. There’s some elevation with rewards of descents to numerous bays, sandy and shingly – take your pick for play and swims. The first half of the track passes big homes, the second from Owhanake Reserve skirts a wetland, olive grove and vineyard. Next, a road section – past a school with a cool playground – then down a track to Oneroa Beach. Halfway along, choose the zigzag path to Oneroa (ice cream, anyone?) before returning to the ferry via the low track or by bus.

Distance 9km

Grade Easy–moderate

Age 7+

8. Karangahake Gorge Big Loop, Bay of Plenty

From Karangahake Reserve car park, this outing combines Scotsman’s Gully Track, Old County Road, Dubbo 96 Track, Dickey Flat, Waitāwheta Pipeline Walk and Windows Walk. Expect activity, variety and fun on this slightly longer day walk, where kids can look for disused mine entrances, weave down a forested track with a stream crossing, picnic and swim and camp at Dickey Flat, walk along an old tramway and through tunnels, and explore what remains of the century-old gold mining operations.

Distance 11km

Grade Moderate

Age 7+

9. Pararaha Valley, Auckland 

From the northern end of Whatipū Beach, access the Gibbons and Muir tracks that lead along the ridgeline before dropping down steps to the grassed Pararaha Valley campground (bookings required) next to Pararaha Stream. The expedition will hold any child’s interest and extend them: conquer the climb, marvel at the views of the wild west coast from the many lookouts, play in the stream and, as an add-on, venture across the boardwalks over the wetland to the black-sand dunes and Tunnel Beach (an extra hour).

Tip: take a magnet to pick up iron particles in the black sand.

Distance 11.4km

Grade Moderate

Age 7+

10. Waitawheta Hut, Bay of Plenty

There’s a lot to captivate kids on this flattish walk along the historic Waitawheta Tramway Track from the kauri logging days: waterfalls, history they can see and touch, and a varied trail through a spectacular gorge with lots of bridges. There’s nearly always company at the hut and plenty to occupy young and old, including a historic sawmill, the toilet bowl waterfall and glow-worms.

Note: there’s a bypass option around the one river crossing. Booking required.

Distance 9.5km each way

Grade Easy–moderate

Age 6+

11. Te Kuri Farm Walk, Gisborne 

If you and the kids are up for a workout, try this loop around a private farm on the outskirts of Gisborne. There’s a steady climb to the lookout with great views at Town Hill (290m), and you’re likely to meet farm animals along the way. The track is closed for lambing August–October.

Distance 5.6km

Grade Easy–moderate

Age 5+

12. Koranga Forks Hut, East Coast 

It is a lovely walk through a mix of native forest and farmland to get to this lesser-known hut, and massive trapping efforts in the valley mean you are likely to see whio in the river next to the track. A chain to hold while crossing a waterfall and a swingbridge just before the hut add to the excitement. The track is narrow but generally flat and easy to follow, with plenty of spots to have a break. The grassy clearing and riverbed next to the hut are great places to play. Booking not required.

Distance 8km one way

Grade Moderate

Age 4+

13. Leitch’s Hut, Waikato 

This hut sits in a spacious clearing right on the Awakino River. The track gradient is a gentle up and then down to the hut along what was once surveyed to be a road. It is easy enough that kids of any age can walk it, but smaller ones may need occasional carrying due to the distance. Kids will enjoy the swimming hole near the hut. Booking not required.

Distance 8.5km one way

Grade Moderate

Age 4+

14. Waihāhā Hut, Waikato

Follow the Waihāhā River along a flat track to Waihāhā Hut, which sits in a clearing. It can get busy and there are only 10 bunks, so best to bring a tent. The walk leads through stunning forest with a huge variety of flora, and in autumn you’ll be able to spot many little fungi along the way. Kids will enjoy the small waterfall along the track. Booking not required.

Distance 8.7km one way

Grade Moderate

Age 4+

15. Tauhara, Taupō

‘Oh, we’re climbing THAT?” Fit kids up for a challenge will relish climbing 1088m Mt Tauhara, which dominates the skyline close to Lake Taupō. Sturdy footwear, extra layers, food and water are musts. The track is rooty in places. Allow 2hr to the trig. Highlights include the bushy section near the top and the narrow track to the rocky outcrop that kids will want to climb. Jaw-dropping 360-degree views provide an opportunity for a potted geography lesson.

Distance 5.6km return

Grade Moderate

Age 7+

16. Pouākai Hut, Taranaki 

With steps and a boardwalk most of the way, the Mangorei Track to fancy new Pouākai Hut is fun for younger kids. The famous Pouākai tarns are just beyond the hut, though you need good conditions to visit these as the track is exposed. After dark you’ll be able to see the lights of New Plymouth. Booking required.

Distance 5km one way

Grade Easy

Age 2.5+

17. Blyth Hut, Tongariro National Park

An overnight visit to Blyth Hut ticks all the family tramping boxes: forest, birds, waterfalls and mountain views. It can be an alpine wonderland in winter, too. Drop down to beautiful Waitonga Falls and follow the markers, crossing the river several times before reaching the hut at 1380m. Booking required.

Distance 3.4km

Grade Easy–moderate

Age 4+

18. Waihohonu Hut, Tongariro National Park 

A flat walk to a spacious hut – Waihohonu is more like a mansion than a hut. The high-elevation scrub sets the walk apart from other kid-friendly tracks. There’s plenty to explore: Old Waihohonu Hut and Ohinepango Springs are nearby, and in clear conditions there are beautiful views of Ruapehu and Ngāuruhoe from the track and the hut. Booking required.

Distance 6.3km

Grade Easy

Age 3+

19. Te Puia Hut, Hawke’s Bay

With hot pools at both the start and finish of this track, Te Puia is a trip that kids will absolutely love. Long flat sections follow the river, and on some steep sections the track goes up and over the riverbank. From the hut it’s another 45min walk to Mangatainoka Hot Pools – three pools you can fill with hot water direct from the creek. After the tramp, have a soak at Mangatutu Hot Pools close to the car park. Booking not required.

Distance 6.6km

Grade Moderate

Age 4+

20. Sunrise Hut, Hawke’s Bay

A classic first hike in Hawke’s Bay, Sunrise Track gently gains 700m of elevation. It is wide and well graded, but make sure you bring plenty of treats to keep the kids motivated on the uphill. The modern hut has a mezzanine floor and amazing views of the coastline. Booking required.

Distance 4.6km

Grade Easy–moderate

Age 3+

21. Rangiwahia Hut, Manawatu

From bush to tussock tops, this track climbs steadily through forest, skirts a slip, crosses an arched bridge over a deep ravine and involves a steeper section past a waterfall before arriving at the 13-bunk hut. Keep eyes peeled for critters, birds and unusual plants such as spiky speargrass (flowers in summer) on the way up. Head past the hut to explore the tops and for awesome views of Mt Ruapehu. Booking required.

Distance 7.9km

Grade Moderate

Age 8+

22. Atiwhakatu Hut, Wairarapa

The flat walk to Atiwhakatu Hut leads through lush forest with many kidney ferns. Most of the way the track is wide enough to walk two abreast. There is a good variety of bridges and boardwalks, including a swingbridge, and look for the hole in the rock to climb into on the way. Once at the spacious hut, the nearby river is great for the kids to play beside. Dogs are welcome too. Booking required.

Distance 7.2km

Grade Easy

Age 3+

23. Totara Flats Hut, Wairarapa

A full day’s trip up the Waiohine River Valley from Waiohine Campsite will delight – there’s not one but four swingbridges. The going is reasonably benign by Tararua standards and the hut is bright and roomy. Note that a slip about halfway requires a rockhop upstream and shouldn’t be attempted if rain is forecast or river levels are high. Booking required.

Distance 8.9km

Grade Moderate

Age 5+

24. Tūrere Lodge, Wellington 

One of many huts in the Ōrongorongo Valley, Tūrere Lodge doesn’t require any river crossings. The wide and well-worn path makes it easy to walk two abreast, and there are lots of bridges, including a fun arched one at Ōrongorongo River. See how many other huts you can count on your walk! Booking required.

Distance 5.9km

Grade Moderate

Age 4+

25. Mākara Walkway, Wellington 

Mākara Walkway is a tempting option for families – it’s straightforward, rewarding and can be walked in any season. The loop track includes wild beaches, wind turbines and WWII bunkers at Fort Opau. Part of the walkway is closed for lambing in August and September, but you can still access Fort Opau from the beach. There’s a bit of rockhopping and exposure.

Distance 7.3km

Grade Easy

Age 6+

26. Kahurangi Keepers House, Nelson-Tasman

A remote beach walk along a spectacular coastline with rockpools to play in, and kids will enjoy the river crossings. It is essential to time your walk to arrive at Big River at dead low tide. There is plenty to explore near the hut, including a creek, a dune you can slide down and an old lighthouse. Booking not required.

Distance 11km one way

Grade Moderate

Age 4+

27. Mārahau to Anchorage, Nelson-Tasman

Enjoy a taster of the Abel Tasman Coast Track. Walk from Mārahau to Anchorage with the options of camping overnight at the halfway mark at Apple Tree Bay and/or catching a water taxi back. The golden sand, secluded bays and shady, benched track make it easy going for the whole family. You can dig for cockles at Mārahau, and the kids will find it pretty cool seeing tractors parked in the water. Campsite bookings required.

Distance 12.4km one way

Grade Easy

Age 4+

28. Cobb Valley and huts, Nelson-Tasman

The Cobb Valley is the cornucopia of whānau tramping. Drive to Trilobite Hut at the head of Cobb Reservoir – an ideal basecamp. Historic Myttons Hut is a short return trip from here. Up the valley lies restored Chaffey Hut, and Tent Camp is further on. Fenella Hut, past Cobb Hut, crowns the journey, and there is sublime swimming in Fenella Tarn. Hut-hop up the gentle valley at your family’s pace. Booking required for Fenella Hut only.

Distance 1–9km depending on choice of hut

Grade Easy–moderate

Age 3+

29. Lakehead Hut, Nelson-Tasman 

Follow the eastern shore of Lake Rotoiti to Lakehead Hut. The distance can be broken up with lakeside play – look out for forest goblins, skim pebbles and enjoy eel-watching from Lakehead Jetty. Return by water taxi or excite older kids with a circumnavigation – continue round the western shore via Coldwater Hut and Whisky Falls. The Travers River crossing between the huts provides an opportunity to practise river safety. Booking required.

Distance 9.5km one way

Grade Moderate

Age 4+

30. Umungata/Davies Bay Campsite, Marlborough 

This is a rewarding day walk with a picnic and play at Umungata Bay, or an easy overnight camping trip. The well-maintained track (part of both the Queen Charlotte Track and Te Araroa) follows the coastline from Anakiwa through lush forest. There’s endless exploration for all ages, plus safe swimming and a variety of tent sites.

Distance 3km one way

Grade Easy

Age 2.5+

31. Fosters Hut and Devils Creek Hut, Marlborough

A medley of options in a tucked-away corner of the Richmond Range. Fosters Hut rewards kids who are ready to take their adventure level up a notch. From Kiwi Road, a gradual climb leads to 4-bunk Fosters Hut with superb views. For further challenge, descend to Devils Creek Hut and the Wakamarina Road end. For younger kids, Devils Creek Hut is an excellent overnighter, while the Doom Track day trip intrigues with old gold workings. Booking not required.

Distance From 7km

Grade Moderate–difficult

Age 4+ years

32. Mt Fyffe Hut, Marlborough 

This steep 4WD track is a bit of a slog. The first part is about getting uphill fast and out of the bush and the second half is more scenic and looks out over the Kaikōura coastline. There’s an optional 1hr trek to the summit of Mt Fyffe. Don’t miss sunrise from the wooden seat near the hut. Booking required.

Distance 6km one way

Grade Difficult

Age 8+

33. Nina Hut, Canterbury

A modern, bookable hut with a wood burner means you can tackle this tramp through beech forest all year round if you’re properly equipped. Kids will love cracking the frozen puddles in winter. The track up the shady valley can be muddy and rough underfoot, so allow extra time for little legs. The swingbridge at the 3.2km mark is a good motivator. Booking required.

Distance 9km one way

Grade Moderate

Age 4+

34. Anti Crow Hut, Canterbury

With a backdrop of big mountains, the route up the true right of Waimakariri River passes above bluffs before leaving the beech forest for grassy river flats. It’s mostly a gentle plod to the new-look hut, recently restored by the Backcountry Trust. Build early navigation skills by spotting the pole markers. Booking required.

Distance 7km one way

Grade Easy–moderate

Age 2.5+

35. Hawdon Hut, Canterbury

Follow Hawdon River into the mountains of Arthur’s Pass along river flats and through mossy forest with a multitude of fungi. There are numerous river crossings – the first is the most challenging and a chance to build skills, but do not attempt the hike if flows are high or rain is forecast. The spacious hut is 1–2km further than signs indicate. Booking required.

Distance 9km one way

Grade Moderate

Age 5+

36. Packhorse Hut, Canterbury

This old stone gem overlooking Lyttelton Harbour is Christchurch’s closest backcountry hut and a local favourite. There are two access tracks: the longer, more scenic, undulating Gebbies Pass trail takes 2–3hr with young kids, and the shorter, steeper route via Kaituna Valley takes about 80min. The hut has a log burner, often needed at its 450m elevation. Make this a multi-day walk by continuing 14.7km to Rod Donald Hut. Booking required.

Distance 4.1km via Kaituna Valley or 5.6km via Gebbies Pass

Grade Easy

Age 4

37. Mānuka Hut and Double Hut, Canterbury 

Choose your own adventure in the windswept Hakatere – walk or mountain bike, and stay in one or both old musterers’ huts on Te Araroa Trail. Mānuka Hut is 7km from Hakatere Heron Road, and Double Hut is a further 5km on. With expansive views into the Arrowsmiths, the terrain feels remote despite being just 90min from Christchurch. You can also reach Double Hut from Lake Heron – at 10km, it’s a flatter, less challenging route. Keep an eye out for deer. Booking not required.

Distance Mānuka Hut, 7km; Double Hut, 12km from Hakatere Heron Road or 10km from Lake Heron car park

Grade Moderate

Age 5+

38. Woolshed Creek Hut, Canterbury 

Woolshed Creek is a family favourite. The Miners Track is suitable for most weather conditions and has old coal mining relics to explore. The spacious hut is close to caves, a waterfall, some beautiful emerald pools and a swingbridge. For older kids, return by the Bus Stop Track to make a more challenging circuit, or follow the Mt Somers Walkway to Pinnacles Hut and Sharplin Falls. Booking required.

Distance 5.1km one way

Grade Easy

Age 3+

39. Mt Nimrod Track, Canterbury 

This half-day loop from Mt Nimrod campground packs in plenty of variety, including a picturesque waterfall with a swimming hole. It’s steep in places and rough underfoot with a slabby exposed section that competent young adventurers will enjoy (it’s advisable to go anticlockwise so you’re climbing rather than descending this section). Look out for wallabies, pīwakawaka and korimako.

Distance 3km

Grade Difficult

Age 6+

40. Mueller Hut, Canterbury

The panoramic mountain views here will take your breath away, as does the entirely uphill slog to this famous red hut. Mueller Hut is for the adventurous and the fit. The trail starts with over 2000 stairs – and that’s the easy part. The second half follows marker poles across boulder valleys, up scree and plenty of unstable ground. Beware of changeable alpine weather and pack appropriately. Booking required.

Distance 5.2km one way

Grade Difficult

Age Kids who can walk uphill for 4–6hr

41. Blowfly Hut, West Coast 

Following an old pack track, the route to Blowfly Hut is straightforward, wide and flat, and you reach the hut before the kids have a chance to get tired. The beautiful native forest and renovated hut are perfect for little people. There’s also a great beach on the river’s edge next to the hut and a good clearing for camping. The only reason this isn’t a more popular hike is because it’s miles from anywhere! Booking not required.

Distance 3.9km one way

Grade Easy

Age 2.5+

42. Kōhanga Atawhai – Manson Nicholls Hut, West Coast

What more could you ask for? A well-formed, flat track through bush to a roomy hut, a shallow lake for swimming with bonus jetty, plenty of grassy areas for camping, and ‘huts’ that other kids have built nearby to explore. Booking required.

Distance 8.4km one way

Grade Easy

Age 3+

43. Point Elizabeth Track, West Coast

This spectacular hike around a panoramic headland to the rivermouth at Rapahoe is a fantastic family day out. Young and old will appreciate the views along the wild coastline north to Punakaiki and south to Aoraki Mt Cook. Keep an eye out for kekeno fur seals or ahoaho Hector’s dolphins. Walk both ways or arrange a car shuffle.

Distance 5.5km one way

Grade Easy–moderate

Age 4+

44. Lower Arahura Hut, West Coast 

One for tamariki with a few hikes under their belts, the track from Milltown up the Arahura River valley varies between farmland, an old goldminers’ road, river rocks and washed-out creeks with steep catchments. The terrain is bound to hold young adventurers’ attention, as will the narrow swingbridge at the Cesspool (3.5km). Camping is possible on the river flats about 2km from the hut. Booking not required.

Distance 11km one way

Grade Difficult

Age 6+

45. Aspiring Hut, Otago

Spectacular scenery is the major drawcard on this trail, with the crystal blue waters of Matukituki River a highlight. The wide 4WD-style track is easy to walk or even mountain bike. The new hut has multiple sleeping areas, making it great for groups. Booking required.

Distance 9km one way

Grade Easy

Age 5+

46. Routeburn Flats Hut, Otago

An overnighter on a Great Walk track is an easy introduction for kids, as the track is well maintained and the hut is top notch. The Routeburn Track has a gentle incline and there’s a good spot for a swim in the river along the way. From the hut there are wide-open spaces to explore with a beautiful mountain backdrop. Booking required.

Distance 7.5km one way

Grade Easy

Age 4+

47. Fern Burn Hut, Otago 

This section of the Motatapu Track covers a variety of terrain. The first third is flat and follows the Fern Burn on farmland, with small gates in the deer fencing that kids will love to navigate. The next third is through beech forest in the conservation area until you cross a bridge. From here, the track gets much steeper and climbs high above the river with many drop-offs and few places to have a break. Your reward is a modern, pleasant hut. Consider taking a tent as it’s on Te Araroa Trail. Booking not required.

Distance 6.8km one way

Grade Difficult

Age 6+

48. Kahikatea Lodge, Otago

It may be a short distance, but the hike to Kahikatea Lodge involves a significant steep descent to a creek and an equally steep climb to the hut. Toddlers and some pre-schoolers may struggle, but older kids will love how short and sweet it is. You can see the hut from the car park, which is a great motivator. The new hut sits at a beautiful vantage point in a clearing. Booking not required.

Distance 1.8km one way

Grade Moderate

Age 4.5+

49. Tautuku Hut, Otago

Originally built as a base for goat culling, this little hut has been given a new lease of life thanks to Permolat Southland. Reaching it through farmland and lush forest is an achievable goal for families. Consider taking a tent, as it’s popular with hunters. Add a visit to magnificent McLean Falls and you’ve got an irresistible overnight proposition in the Catlins. Booking not required.

Distance 4km

Grade Easy–moderate

Age 5+

50. Kiwi Burn Hut, Southland

The Kiwi Burn Hut Track is for lovers of lush green forest and flat trails. Great rockhopping and small creeks along the way will keep younger kids entertained. Once you reach the open Kiwi Burn clearing, you’re only a short walk from the hut. There’s also an option to turn this into a loop trail, with the full circuit taking 3.5hr. Consider taking a tent as the hut is on Te Araroa Trail and can be busy. Booking not required.

Distance 4.3km

Grade Easy

Age 3+

5 short walks for little legs

Toddlers will love getting to these huts under their own steam.

1 Mangatepopo Hut, Tongariro National Park

A 20-bunker on the Tongariro Northern Circuit, this hut with sunset views is 1.7km from Mangatepopo Road end.

2 Alice Nash Memorial Heritage Lodge, Manawatu-Whanganui

It’s an easy 40min womble on a benched track to this modern, standard, 8-bunk hut with a lovely verandah.

3 Lake Chalice Hut, Marlborough

Built in 1963, this standard 8-bunker near a picturesque lake is 2.6km from Staircase Road.

4 Ōtamahua Hut, Ōtamahua/Quail Island Recreation Reserve, Canterbury

This bookable 12-bunker is only 600m from the ferry jetty, yet feels worlds away from Christchurch.

5 Rod Donald Hut, Banks Peninsula

It’s a 2.5km walk from PortLevy Saddle car park to this bookable 9-bunker, and if legs are too weary for the uphill return journey, you can be picked up from the door.