Each week, we highlight our fave tramping trails in New Zealand for day and multi day hikes across Nelson Tasman (and beyond!)
Looking for a kid-friendly overnight hike in Nelson Tasman? Whether you're introducing your little ones to their first backcountry hut adventure or planning a fun family weekend in the outdoors, we've rounded up some of our favourite two-day, one-night hikes that are perfect for the whole whānau.
These walks have been chosen for their manageable distances, rewarding views, family-friendly huts and achievable elevation gain. They're ideal for adventurous kids who are ready to take their hiking a little further.
All of these hikes feature on our Location of the Week blogs, where you'll find more information on the tracks, what to pack and what to expect.
Distances listed are return (total distance) and total elevation across the whole hike.
Lake Sylvester, Kahurangi National Park
- Distance: 12 km return
- Elevation Gain: 500 m
- Stay: Slyvester Hut
A stunning alpine lake that's well worth the effort. Lake Sylvester is a fantastic introduction to alpine hiking for families with older children following an easy 4WD track.
Beeby's Knob, Nelson Lakes National Park
- Distance: 19 km return
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 m
- Stay: Beeby's Hut
One for adventurous families! Beeby's Knob rewards hikers with incredible views across Nelson Lakes and makes for a memorable overnight adventure. Easy 4WD track most of the way.
Gridiron Rock Shelters, Kahurangi National Park
- Distance: 18 km return
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 m
- Stay: Gridiron Shelters
A unique overnight experience sleeping beneath impressive limestone overhangs. This is an easy track is ideal for families wanting something a little different.
Speargrass Hut, Nelson Lakes National Park
- Distance: 14 km return
- Elevation Gain: 650 m
- Stay: Speargrass Hut
A classic Nelson Lakes family favourite. The hut is cosy, the track is well-formed and there's plenty to explore around the area.
Apple Tree Bay, Abel Tasman National Park
- Distance: 12 km return
- Elevation Gain: 230 m
- Stay: Apple Tree Campsite
Golden beaches, native bush and gentle gradients make Apple Tree Bay one of the most accessible overnight adventures for younger hikers. Easy track underfoot.
Tent Camp Hut, Kahurangi National Park
- Distance: 20 km return
- Elevation Gain: 250 m
- Stay: Tent Camp Hut or camp here
A longer distance but with relatively gentle climbing, making it a great option for families looking to build confidence on multi-day walks. Easy track underfoot.
Coldwater Hut, Nelson Lakes National Park
- Distance: 16 km return
- Elevation Gain: 500 m
- Stay: Coldwater Hut
Located beside Lake Rotoiti, Coldwater Hut is a brilliant first hut experience with beautiful lake and mountain scenery. Easy track along the lake side.
Lake Matiri Hut, Kahurangi National Park
- Distance: 8 km return
- Elevation Gain: 230 m
- Lake Matiri Hut
Short, scenic and family-friendly. Lake Matiri is a great choice for younger adventurers or families wanting a relaxed overnight trip with easy wide track.
Mutton Cove, Abel Tasman National Park
- Distance: 10 km return
- Elevation Gain: 600 m
- Stay: Muttons Cove Campsite
With stunning views and the chance to explore one of New Zealand's most beautiful national parks, Mutton Cove is a real treat that's usually pretty quiet, camping on the beach. Walk from Totaranui.
Bushline Hut, Nelson Lakes
- Distance: 9 km return
- Elevation Gain: 750 m
- Stay: Bushline Hut
A shorter but steeper option for families with confident little hikers who love a challenge and a hut stay with epic views
A Few Things to Consider
Every child hikes differently, so don't let age be your deciding factor. Consider:
- Their previous hiking experience.
- Fitness and confidence levels.
- The weather forecast and time of year.
- The weight they'll be carrying.
- Plenty of snacks (always plenty of snacks!).
- How easy the trail is underfoot.
Taking kids into the outdoors doesn't have to mean compromising on adventure. Some of the best memories are made around hut tables, playing cards after dinner or watching the sunrise from a sleeping bag.
Happy hiking!