Frequently Asked Questions

Why trust Private Walks NZ?

Because we walk the talk and know tracks like no other source. We have visited each of these private walks, mapped them, stayed with the host families and sought more comprehensive information from them. We have designed and built walking trails, walked all the New Zealand Great Walks and Great Rides, and published over 60 articles about them. We have designed the official app for these walks, published the book and provide this official website. That's why we say we are the definitive source on New Zealand's private walks.

What is Private Walks NZ?

It's your gateway to discovering a range of private walks in New Zealand. It's the only website for the collection of New Zealand's private walks, and is complemented with:

• our new book, the only publication and a place to be inspired

• our free web app, being your comprehensive guide

• our free mobile app, just like the web app but works offline

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What is a private walk?

It's a hike that:

• is primarily on private land

• offers lodgings on or is directly associated with private land

• is a minimum of a full day's walk but often is multi-day​

How is a private walk different?

Private walks offer greater comfort than public walks. Typically, the difference is that:

• overnight luggage is transported to your lodging

• lodgings have hot showers, flush toilets, and more homely surroundings

• most offer catered meals, so you do not have to carry or cook while on your walk

• they have only small numbers of guests on the track and in lodgings

• they are on private land that you ordinarily would not be able to access

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How hard are the walks?

With such a variety of tracks, there are plenty of options for all types of walkers, including families. Some walks:

• provide a range of walking section options each day

• offer shortcuts for poor weather conditions or for different abilities

• provide optional shuttling to reduce the length

• allow non-walkers to come along

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What landscapes do I see?

Private and farm walks offer a greater diversity of landscapes than public walks because not only do they pass through scenic and wild places of coastlines, rivers and mountains, but they also offer a way:

• to get up close to farming practices and animals

• to meet country folk who are going about managing their lands

• see heartland New Zealand that few get to access

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What gear do I need?

You need gear similar to what you would take on a public walk; however, almost all transport overnight belongings to the lodgings, so you can take a lot more, including books, treats, and other home comforts. Each walk provides information on the essentials.

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Do I share my room with others?

Typically, the lodging rooms are not shared; you will only be with your companions in any one room. Some walks offer exclusive use of the lodging for your party only.

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Why buy the book?

The website helps you discover private walks; the book inspires you and serves as your travel companion once you decide to go; the app/webapp is your virtual guide. The book is designed to travel with you, with a flick of the page for maps, elevation profiles and descriptions for every walk, plus the backstories you won't find elsewhere.

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How do you choose and book?

With dozens of private walks to choose from, picking one is half the fun. Our book profiles every walk side by side: difficulty, landscape, comfort level and highlights, so you can find the one that's right for you. Use the details on the collection list and map on the homepage, or purchase the book to help you pick one that appeals to you. Once you've chosen, booking is simple; just contact the host directly from the link to their website.