The 12 Best Sunset Hikes in New Zealand That Are Totally Instagram Worthy.

New Zealand is renowned for its stunning landscapes and incredible hiking opportunities. And what better way to experience the beauty of this country than by experiencing one of the many sunset hikes?

From easy strolls along a beach to challenging climbs up mountains, there’s something for everyone in New Zealand. To help you find your perfect sunset hike, we’ve put together a list of 11 epic Instagram-worthy trails that won’t disappoint.

Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to take in some breathtaking views, this guide will have something for you! So get ready to explore some of New Zealand’s most beautiful spots as the sun sets over these spectacular locations.

The Best Sunset Hikes in New Zealand.

Get yourself up high for sunset almost anywhere in New Zealand and you won’t be disappointed.

But there are some tried and tested destinations that you simply can’t miss if you want to experience an epic backcountry sunset.

Some can be accessed in a short two to three hour trek, while others are further into the backcountry and may only be accessed through a multi-day tramping trip.

Here are 12 of the most epic sunset hikes around NZ for that perfect Instagram shot.

1. Pouakai Tarns, Taranaki

The Pouakai Tarns on Mount Taranaki’s northern slopes offer a stunning sunset hike that is perfect for the avid adventurer or nature enthusiast. Located within the Egmont National Park, this spot offers some of New Zealand’s most beautiful views from its apex.

The tarns provide picturesque reflections of Mount Taranaki and the surrounding hills, making it an ideal spot to take in a breathtaking sunset view. With easy access from nearby towns and cities, this stunning location combines natural beauty with convenience – making it one of NZ’s best spots for watching a spectacular sunset over tranquil waters.

📍 Location: Mount Taranaki, Taranaki.

⭐ Difficulty: Moderate

📏 Distance: 12km

⏱️ Time to Reach Sunset Spot: 4.5 to 5 hours from Mangorei Rd.

🏠 Accommodation Option: Pouakai Hut (approx. 20 mins from tarns).

2. Moonlight Tops Hut

Moonlight Tops Hut is the perfect place to watch the spectacular sunset from. Located high on the hills of Paparoa Track, New Zealand’s newest Great Walk, it offers unbeatable views of limestone bluffs and out towards the Tasman Sea. The huge picture windows coupled with an expansive deck provide a breathtaking view of the skyline as it changes from day to night.

At $45 per adult during peak Great Walks season, Moonlight Tops Hut is a relatively affordable option compared to other Great Walk huts. It’s a good but strenuous day hike (20km / 7-8 hours) from the Smoke-ho carpark on the Paparoa Track, making it easily accessible on an overnight trip.

📍 Location: Paparoa Track, West Coast.

⭐ Difficulty: Hard

📏 Distance: 20 km

⏱️ Time to Reach Sunset Spot: 7 to 8 hours from Smoke-ho car park.

🏠 Accommodation Option: Moonlight Tops Hut (book online well in advance for Great Walks season).

3. Mueller Hut, Aoraki National Park

Mueller Hut in Aoraki National Park is arguably the best spot to watch the sunset in New Zealand. Located high up on the slopes surrounding Aoraki Mt Cook, it offers spectacular views of New Zealand’s highest mountains, along with panoramic 360-degree views.

The journey to Mueller Hut is a gruelling 4 hour hike up a steep and exposed sheer face with hundreds of steps. This true alpine experience is not for the faint-hearted!

However, if you are up for the challenge, you’ll never forget the pink and purple hues of the valley as the setting sun sheds its last light. I recommend watching the helpful video online to see what the track is like before attempting it.

This hut is fully booked all year round. Bookings are required from November to April (and make sure you book well in advance).

📍 Location: Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.

⭐ Difficulty: Hard

📏 Distance: 5.2 km

⏱️ Time to Reach Sunset Spot: 4 hours

🏠 Accommodation Option: Mueller Hut (bookings required Nov to April, well in advance).

4. Blyth Hut, Tongariro National Park

Watching the sunset at Blyth Hut, in the Tongariro National Park, is an experience like no other. Located on the southern slopes of Mt Ruapehu and set back into the surrounding alpine beech forest, visitors are treated to a sweeping view of the plains of the Central North Island and a spectacular fiery display as the sun sets behind the far volcanic peak of Mt Taranaki on the North Island’s west coast.

Reaching Blyth Hut is an adventure in itself, with a 3-hour hike from the carpark on the Tukino Mountain Road, and one unbridged river to cross as well as a snowmelt river (usually dry in the summer).

It’s a relatively easy hike with a difference in elevation of only about 200 metres, and although the hut is small and basic in terms of facilities, it more than makes up for this with its exceptional views. The hut can be cold during winter months so visitors should come properly prepared and bring appropriate clothing to keep warm.

📍 Location: Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro National Park.

⭐ Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

📏 Distance: 3.4 km

⏱️ Time to Reach Sunset Spot: 2 to 3 hours

🏠 Accommodation Option: Blyth Hut (first come first served, bookings not required, 1x serviced hut ticket ($15) required).

5. Mt Pirongia, Hamilton

On a clear day, there’s no better place to watch the sunset than at the summit of this ancient volcano, which has the distinction of being the highest peak in the Waikato at 959m. Mt Pirongia is often shrouded in clouds, so make sure to check the weather forecast for the best results before setting out on your hike.

There are many routes up the mountain, all involving substantial and lengthy climbs across very muddy terrain. The shortest is the Hihikiwi Track, which takes 4-6 hours to complete – an alternative option is the Tahuanui Track which takes approximately 5-6 hours.

Mt Pirongia is renowned for its deep, sucking mud making the hike even harder than it already is! Due to the distances involved, I recommend an overnight Pāhautea Hut rather than attempting an out-and-back hike.

📍 Location: Pirongia Forest Park, Waikato.

⭐ Difficulty: Hard

📏 Distance: 6.4 km (via Hihikiwi Track)

⏱️ Time to Reach Sunset Spot: 4 to 6 hours

🏠 Accommodation Option: Pāhautea Hut (online booking required, first come first served).

6. Routeburn Falls Hut, Routeburn Track

Watching the sunset from Routeburn Falls Hut on the Routeburn Track is an unforgettable experience. As you stand on the balcony of the hut at the edge of the Routeburn valley, take in the breathtaking views out across Fiordland’s wild and rugged terrain. The orange hues of the setting sun light up the landscape, painting it with a warm and inviting glow.

Routeburn Falls Hut is located just a one-day walk from the start of the Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s most popular Great Walks. You’ll need to ensure you book your bunk at the hut well in advance! Online booking opens months in advance for the upcoming Great Walks Season. Check the Great Walks website for more information on when Routeburn Track hut bookings open.

📍 Location: Routeburn Track, Fiordland.

⭐ Difficulty: Moderate

📏 Distance: 10 km

⏱️ Time to Reach Sunset Spot: 4 hours

🏠 Accommodation Option: Routeburn Falls Hut (bookings required well in advance for the upcoming Great Walks season).

7. Mt Arthur, Nelson

Taking in the stunning alpine views of Nelson and Tasman regions from the summit of Mount Arthur (1795m) is a rewarding experience reserved only for seasoned hikers. It’s one of the best places to watch the sunset in Nelson, with its unobstructed 360° panoramic views.

The route from Mount Arthur Hut to the summit is an unmarked track, so you’ll need to be very experienced in off-track navigation and route finding. Preparation and the right gear are of utmost importance – don’t go alone and make sure that your fitness level and experience match the terrain. Once you’ve finished admiring the sunset, turn on your headtorch and make your way back to the comfort of Mount Arthur Hut.

For those who don’t have advanced hiking skills, there is an easier option – the Flora Hut/Mount Arthur hut loop. Although the sunset won’t be quite as spectacular you’re sure to see some amazing views on the way.

📍 Location: Kahurangi National Park, Nelson.

⭐ Difficulty: Expert

📏 Distance: 9.2 km

⏱️ Time to Reach Sunset Spot: 4.5 hours

🏠 Accommodation Option: Mount Arthur Hut (first come, first served, 1x serviced hut ticket required).

8. Twilight Beach, Cape Reinga

Located close to the very tip of the North Island at Cape Reinga, Twilight Beach provides an unforgettable experience for anyone who hikes there. Be prepared to be blown away by the spectacular coastal views that stretch out before you. The sun sets directly on the horizon of the Tasman Sea making it one of the most remote and special places to witness a sunset in New Zealand (especially as it’s only accessible on foot)! It’s even part of New Zealand’s Te Araroa.

The hike takes approximately 4-5 hours from the Cape (depending on which route you choose) and I recommend taking a shuttle bus as car parking is not very secure at the trailheads. Water can be scarce (especially during the busy summer season) and possums often ravage the campsite at nighttime looking for stray food.

📍 Location: Cape Reinga, Far North

⭐ Difficulty: Easy

📏 Distance: 12 km

⏱️ Time to Reach Sunset Spot: 4 to 5 hours (depending on route)

🏠 Accommodation Option: Twilight Campsite.

9. Roys Peak, Wanaka

This is one of the most iconic photo spots in New Zealand and it’s easy to see why from the top. Start your ascent late in the afternoon to catch the sun as it sets behind Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring National Park for a truly breathtaking view. Be sure to bring your camera for some stunning sunset shots, and perhaps even a spot of astrophotography!

Roys Peak is a steep and challenging hike with plenty of rewarding views along the way. There is nowhere to stay when you reach the top, so if you’re heading up for sunset you need to be prepared to head back down the steep and exposed track in the dark (don’t forget your head torch!).

The track crosses private land, so make sure to obey all signage and leave gates as you find them. Bear in mind the track is closed from 1 October to 10 November every year for lambing.

📍 Location: Wanaka, Otago.

⭐ Difficulty: Hard (& Steep)

📏 Distance: 8 km

⏱️ Time to Reach Sunset Spot: 2.5 to 3 hours.

10. Mt Luxmore Hut, Kepler Track

Another spectacular sunset trip to take in New Zealand is the hike up to Luxmore Hut on the Kepler Track. This hut sits well above the bush line at an altitude of 1085m and offers expansive views of the Kepler Mountains and Lake Te Anau. Although achievable in a single day, if you’re hiking to see the sunrise or sunset, this means hiking at least 4-5 hours in the dark (only recommended for experienced trampers in groups).

The first part of the track is relatively flat as it follows the lake from Brod Bay, but then starts to climb steeply as it reaches the tops. The hut itself is about a 45-minute walk from the bushline. A popular Great Walk, it is sometimes possible to score a last-minute booking for 1 or 2 people as the result of a cancellation. But to secure your spot and avoid disappointment you’ll need to book months in advance.

📍 Location: Te Anau, Fiordland

⭐ Difficulty: Moderate

📏 Distance: 13.8 km

⏱️ Time to Reach Sunset Spot: 5 to 6 hours

🏠 Accommodation Option: Luxmore Hut (bookings required well in advance for the upcoming Great Walks season).

11. Ghost Lake Hut, Old Ghost Road

The Old Ghost Road provides an incredible opportunity to witness some of New Zealand’s most stunning sunsets. Traversing 85km over the Lyell Range and through the Mokihinui River Valley, this track is a fantastic place to find sunset views after a day of hiking or mountain biking. The Old Ghost Road is the longest dual-use trail in New Zealand and the preferred destination for sunsets is Ghost Lake Hut.

Located just over 1200m above sea level, Ghost Lake Hut offers incredible sunset views over the Southern Alps towards the West Coast. The hut has an expansive deck overlooking hills and valleys, making it the perfect place to sit back and watch as the sun casts its shadow over the mountains. Operated by a private trust, more information and bookings can be found on the Old Ghost Road website.

📍 Location: Westport, West Coast.

⭐ Difficulty: Moderate to Hard

📏 Distance: 30 km

⏱️ Time to Reach Sunset Spot: 2 days

🏠 Accommodation Option: Ghost Lake Hut (book online here).

12. The Pinnacles, Coromandel

This historic site is accessed by a historic kauri logging route and cobblestone track to Pinnacles Hut, a popular overnighter for families and trampers of all ages which sits at the top of the Kauaeranga Valley.

From here, adventurers can undertake an exciting climb featuring metal ladders screwed into the rock face to reach the Pinnacles summit where you will be rewarded with stunning sunset views over the western aspect of the Coromandel Peninsula.

The whole experience is best enjoyed with an overnight stay at the immensely popular Pinnacles Hut – that way you’ll have plenty of time to explore the surrounding area and historic kauri dams either in the late afternoon or early morning, or opt to enjoy the breathtaking sunrise instead!

📍 Location: Kauaeranga Valley, Coromandel.

⭐ Difficulty: Moderate

📏 Distance: 7 km (via Webb Creek Track)

⏱️ Time to Reach Sunset Spot: 3 hours to hut, 40 mins to summit from hut

🏠 Accommodation Option: Pinnacles Hut (online bookings required in advance all year round).

For Every Sunset, There’s a Sunrise – New Zealand’s Best Sunrise Hikes.

The amazing beauty of New Zealand is not limited to just the sunsets. The country also boasts some incredible sunrise hikes that offer spectacular views and are perfect for any outdoor enthusiast looking for an adventure. From mountain summits to coastal tracks, these sunrise hikes will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.

1. Sunrise Hut, Tararua Forest Park

Widely regarded as one of the best backcountry spots to watch the sunrise in New Zealand, the aptly named Sunrise Hut is a must-do for any sunrise-seeking hiker. Located in the Tararua Forest Park, the hut can be reached via an easy to moderate 2 to 3-hour hike which is easily achievable even for children.

The views from the hut are spectacular, making your early morning climb (if you choose to do so) well worth it! Book a night at the hut for the full experience (bunks fill up quickly at this popular hut so book well in advance) and make sure to take a stove and fuel to enjoy a brew from this unique viewpoint.

📍 Location: Tararua Forest Park, Wellington

⭐ Difficulty: Easy

📏 Distance: 6.4 km

⏱️ Time to Reach Sunset Spot: 2 to 3 hours

🏠 Accommodation Option: Sunrise Hut (book online in advance)

2. Mt Tauhara, Taupo

A sunrise hike to the top of Mount Tauhara in Taupo is a must-do for any outdoor enthusiast visiting the central North Island region of New Zealand. This strenuous climb on a muddy and rough track covers over 500 metres in vertical elevation in just 2.8 kilometres!

Expect it to take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the summit, but once you get there you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree panoramic views of the Central Plateau including Lake Taupō, the volcanic peaks of the Tongariro National Park, and more!

To make sure you get there in time, it’s best to leave no later than 2 hours before sunrise. This will give you some extra time for breaks and stops along the way, as well as time to settle in once you get to the summit. Make sure to take plenty of warm and windbreaking layers, as it can get quite cold on the summit as you wait for the sun to arrive.

📍 Location: Taupō, Waikato

⭐ Difficulty: Moderate

📏 Distance: 2.8 km

⏱️ Time to Reach Sunset Spot: 1hr 30 min from Mountain Rd

3. Rangipo Hut, Tongariro National Park

Rangipo Hut is an ideal spot to catch a sunrise in the Tongariro National Park. This quaint alpine hut offers some of the most breathtaking views of Mt. Ruapehu and its surrounding slopes in the early morning as it’s illuminated by the rising sun. The sun rises above the horizon to create a stunning display of colour in the sky, and at night you might even be lucky enough to witness live ammunition firing in the army training grounds of the Rangipo Desert below.

📍 Location: Tongariro National Park, Central North Island.

⭐ Difficulty: Moderate

📏 Distance: 19 km

⏱️ Time to Reach Sunset Spot: 7 hours from Desert Road

🏠 Accommodation Option: Rangipo Hut (first come first served, 1x serviced hut ticket)

What to Bring on Your Sunset or Sunrise Hike.

1. Head torch

A head torch is an essential piece of gear for any sunrise or sunset hike. When you’re out in the dark, it can be hard to see where you’re going, and a head torch will help light your way. It also comes in handy if you need to set up camp or cook something whilst you’re waiting for the sun to set (or rise. I recommend the Black Diamond Spot headlamp or Nitecore NU25 which are both bright and lightweight.

2. Good sturdy boots or shoes

Sturdy boots or hiking shoes are essential for sunrise hikes as it’s not always easy to see where you’re stepping, especially in the dark. Good grip, ankle support and water resistance will all make your sunrise hike more comfortable. I recommend the Keen Targhee III mid-rise boots, which have excellent grip and superior toe protection against those pesky tree roots.

3. Trekking poles

Trekking poles are invaluable for sunrise hikes as they provide additional stability and balance when navigating uneven terrain in the dark. They can be used to test the ground before you step, particularly in muddy or wet conditions. The Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork trekking poles are my poles of choice because they’re relatively lightweight yet sturdy and easy to adjust.

4. Warm insulated jacket

A warm insulated jacket is essential for sunrise hikes, as the temperatures can drop significantly when the sun goes down (or whilst you’re waiting for it to come up). Look for a jacket that’s got a high loft down (ideally 700+) and a highly water-resistant outer layer to protect against dampness in the early (or late) hours. My personal preference is the Macpac Icefall jacket, which is filled with 800 loft down and has a Pertex shield coating, but the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer or Patagonia Micropuff are also tried and tested options.

5. Good rainjacket that can also break the wind

A good rain jacket is important for sunrise hikes as it can help protect against unexpected weather like a mild drizzle or a biting wind. Look for something lightweight but still capable of breaking the wind and keeping you warm. The Macpac Traverse jacket is my go-to choice, but you might also try the OR Helium or Marmot Precip styles.

6. Merino thermal layers

Merino thermal layers are essential for sunrise hikes, as they not only provide extra warmth and cosiness but also help regulate body temperature. Merino wool is a lightweight but naturally moisture-wicking fabric that will help keep you warm during those cold predawn hours. Check out the industry-topping Icebreaker merino range, specifically made for New Zealand conditions.

7. Beanie, gloves and scarf

A beanie, gloves and scarf are essential for any sunset hike, as the temperature can drop quickly in the alpine areas that many of these routes take you through. These items are small enough that they can be carried in the bottom of your pack with ease, but you’ll be grateful for them as the mercury plummets!

8 Stove and fuel

Bringing a stove and gas canister on your sunset hike is a great idea, as it gives you the option to make hot drinks or food while you wait for the sun to set (or rise). The MSR Pocket Rocket or even BRS ultralight stove are fantastic go-to options for these trips, together with a Sea to Summit collapsible cup to maximise space in your pack and weight on your back.

9 A camera to capture those amazing views!

A camera is a must for your sunset hike, as you’ll want to capture the beautiful views and stunning hues of the soft golden or blue hour that precedes sunrise or sunset. Most modern mobile phone cameras are more than good enough, but photographers will benefit from packing their lightweight mirrorless or DSLR rigs. A hiking tripod will be an asset to any sunset or sunrise hike, especially if you’re planning to catch some astrophotography.

Final Thoughts: The 12 Best Sunset hikes in New Zealand

New Zealand is a beautiful country with stunning landscapes and plenty of opportunities to catch an unforgettable sunset. Whether you’re looking for something easy or more challenging, there are plenty of hikes here that will meet your needs.

From the magnificent coastal landscape of the Far North region to the awe-inspiring peaks of the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, these 12 best sunset hikes in New Zealand offer breathtaking views and incredible experiences. So pack up your gear and get ready to experience this miracle of nature!