Discover New Zealand's UNESCO World Heritage Treasures

UNESCO designated World Heritage Sites as places recognised for their outstanding natural or cultural value to all. In New Zealand, 3 expansive sites bear this distinction: Tongariro National Park, Te Wahipounamu and the Subantarctic Islands. Explore New Zealand’s stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites. From Fiordland to Tongariro, nature amazes at every turn. Don’t forget to secure your New Zealand ETA online before your adventure.

Tongariro National Park: The Ultimate Gift

Mountains hold deep spiritual importance for Maori. In 1887, Chief Te Heuheu Tukino IV gifted Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe, together with their surrounding lands, to the nation.

These 3 volcanoes and adjacent terrain became Tongariro National Park, situated at the centre of the North Island. Its designation as a World Heritage Site in the early 1990s affirmed the area’s exceptional natural and cultural value.

Volcanic activity continues to shape this landscape. Mount Ruapehu’s 1996 eruption coated its snow-covered slopes in ash. At Tongariro’s stark summit, strikingly coloured crater lakes and sulphurous vapours attest to the ground’s restless nature.

Trails range from brief lowland forest walks to the renowned 8-hour Tongariro Crossing. Longer expeditions, such as the four- to six-day Round the Mountain circuit around Ruapehu’s base, offer deeper exploration. In winter, two extensive ski fields on Mount Ruapehu welcome snow sports enthusiasts.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing: The Iconic Day Hike

Lava flows, an active crater, steam vents, emerald-coloured lakes, and wide views combine to make this a memorable walking journey. Often described as New Zealand's greatest day walk, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a challenging route across a remarkable volcanic landscape.

Track Overview

The track may be walked in either direction; however, the route most commonly taken begins at Mangatepopo Valley.

Start: Mangatepopo Valley

• Location: Near Whakapapa
• Features: Streamside trail, edges of old lava flows, changing vegetation revealing geological age

Climb: South Crater

• Ascent: Steep climb to Mangatepopo Saddle
• Between: Ngauruhoe and Tongariro
• Views: Expansive volcanic terrain; Taranaki Maunga visible on clear days

Peak: Red Crater

• Elevation: Highest point on the route
• Activity: Active crater with sulphur odour and steam emissions

Pause: Emerald Lakes

• Appearance: Bright green, coloured by mineral deposits
• Significance: Most photographed point, scenic rest stop

Descent: Ketetahi End

• Route: Past Blue Lake and slopes of North Crater
• Final Stretch: Long descent through tussock slopes to forest near Ketetahi Road

Subantarctic Islands: Sanctuaries at the Edge of the World

5 little-known island groups lie far to the south of New Zealand. These places are hard to reach and mostly unknown.

The islands have cold, rough weather and are home to birds and animals that are not found in other parts of the world. Together, the Bounty Islands, Antipodes Islands, Snares Islands, Auckland Islands, and Campbell Island are home to 126 types of birds. 5 of those live and nest only on these islands.

In 1998, the islands were added to the UNESCO World Heritage list. They are under strong protection. A small number of approved tour groups are allowed to bring visitors during parts of the year.

A Closer Look at the Subantarctic Islands

Each island in this region has different features. What follows is a brief outline of where they are, what they are like, and why they matter.

The Snares
The Snares lie about 100 kilometres southwest of Stewart Island. The islands are covered with tree daisy plants. Many birds live here. 3 land bird species live only on these islands.

The Auckland Islands

The Auckland Islands form the biggest group among New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands. Many seabirds nest here, including the yellow-eyed penguin, white-capped mollymawk, Gibson’s wandering albatross, sooty shearwater, and the Auckland shag.

Campbell Island

Campbell Island has rare plants that grow well in cold, wet weather. In the past, people caused damage to the island. Since 1954, efforts have been made to remove pests, and the animals and plants have started to return.

Te Wahipounamu: The Wild Heart of the South

The area covers 2.6 million hectares and includes four national parks: Westland Tai Poutini, Aoraki/Mount Cook, Mount Aspiring, and Fiordland.

The rocks, plants, birds, animals, and landforms found here reflect conditions from around 80 million years ago, when New Zealand was part of Gondwana.

Parts of the land have not been changed. The valleys, lakes, and fiords shaped by ice are home to unusual species. Large sections are covered with native trees like southern beech and podocarp.

Birds such as the kea, which lives in mountain areas, and the takahē, a large bird that does not fly, live here. 3 rare types of kiwi are also found in this area: the rowi, the Haast tokoeka, and the Fiordland tokoeka.

The place is important to the Maori group Ngāi Tahu. It is known as the home of many of their atua, or gods.

Walking Tracks in Te Wahipounamu

Te Wahipounamu contains several well-known tracks that guide walkers through mountain ranges, native forest, valleys, and rivers. These tracks give access to different parts of the region and offer a way to see its natural features closely and on foot.

The Routeburn Track: Alpine Views and Mountain Valleys

The track starts at Glenorchy. It goes through beech forest and open highland areas. Walkers pass wetlands, open grassland, snow-covered mountains, small mountain lakes, and waterfalls. The full length is 33 kilometres. Most people take 3 days to finish the walk and sleep in huts for 2 nights.

The Kepler Track: From Lakeside Forest to Alpine Heights

The Kepler Track starts near Lakes Te Anau and Manapouri, moving through beech forest to open land and the top of Mount Luxmore. From there, walkers see large mountain views. The track also passes the Luxmore Caves and continues through the landscapes of Fiordland National Park.

The Hollyford Track: River Paths to the Fiordland Coast

The Hollyford Track is a major low-altitude walking route in Fiordland National Park. Walkers can use the track throughout the year. It runs for 56 kilometres in one direction and usually takes four days to complete.

The track begins at Lower Hollyford Road and leads to Martins Bay, once a port. It passes beneath the steep rock faces of the Darran Mountains and follows the Hollyford River/Whakatipu Kā Tuka to the coast.

Along the way, the track reaches Lake Alabaster/Wāwāhi Waka and Lake McKerrow/Whakatipu Waitai. It also passes the site of Jamestown, a former settlement beside Lake McKerrow/Whakatipu Waitai.

The Milford Track: Rainforest Trails to Milford Sound

Walkers see high mountains, deep valleys, and large waterfalls along the Milford Track. The path follows clear rivers and passes through green forest. It crosses Mackinnon Pass and ends at Milford Sound.

The track has a 72-metre bridge over the Clinton River, built in 1978 by engineers from Fiji. From the bridge, walkers may see eels and trout in the water. The area often receives rain, which brings strong water flow and spreads moss through the forest. Waterfalls become larger. Walkers may also see whio, or blue duck, moving through fast water on the Clinton and Arthur Rivers. The bird's feathers match the colour of the river rocks.

Tentative List

In addition to sites on the World Heritage List, member states may maintain a list of tentative sites under consideration for nomination. A nomination is only accepted if the site was first included on the tentative list. New Zealand currently lists eight properties.

How Can Tourists Enjoy New Zealand’s World Heritage Sites?

Visiting New Zealand’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites offers an opportunity to explore the country’s most treasured natural and cultural landscapes. To make the most of these experiences, visitors can follow these practical and respectful travel tips:

Plan According to Season and Region

• Tongariro National Park is ideal for hiking in summer (November to April) and skiing in winter.
• Te Wahipounamu can be visited year-round, but weather conditions change quickly—pack waterproof clothing and warm layers.
• The Subantarctic Islands can only be accessed during specific months through licensed expedition operators.

Explore the Walking Tracks

• Choose from iconic tracks like the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Routeburn Track, Kepler Track, and Milford Track.
• Book Department of Conservation (DOC) huts or campsites early, especially during peak travel months.
• Follow marked trails, carry essentials, and observe all safety guidelines.

Capture the Scenery Respectfully

• Scenic views are abundant, but stay on designated paths to protect sensitive landscapes.
• Drone use is restricted or prohibited in many heritage areas; check local regulations before flying.

Experience the Water Landscapes

• In Fiordland, take a boat cruise or guided kayak tour through Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound.
• In marine-protected areas near the Subantarctic Islands, travel only with permitted tour operators.

Take Guided Cultural Tours

• Maori-led tours offer insights into cultural traditions, language, and the spiritual connection to the land, especially in Tongariro and Te Wahipounamu.
• These experiences often include storytelling, local history, and ceremonial significance.

Observe Native Wildlife

• Bring binoculars for spotting rare species like the kiwi, whio (blue duck), or seabirds in the Subantarctic Islands.
• Avoid loud noises, keep distance, and never feed or disturb wildlife.

Visit Visitor Centres and Museums

• Start at a DOC Visitor Centre for maps, conservation information, and safety alerts.
• In cultural heritage sites like the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, join guided walks or museum tours to learn about New Zealand’s foundational history.

Respect Protected Areas

• Many areas—especially in the Subantarctic region—are highly protected due to fragile ecosystems.
• Do not remove rocks, plants, or natural items. Stick to authorised areas and tour providers.

Conclusion

New Zealand’s World Heritage Sites and tentative listings highlight the country’s diverse natural and cultural significance. From volcanic landscapes to remote islands and historic precincts, these places reflect the deep value of preservation and heritage for both present and future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any age or fitness restrictions for the tracks?
There are no strict age limits, but some tracks, like the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or Kepler Track, require a moderate to high fitness level due to steep climbs and rugged terrain.

How do I ensure my visit is environmentally responsible?
Follow the Leave No Trace principles: pack out all waste, stay on marked tracks, avoid feeding wildlife, and respect local customs and conservation guidelines.

Are all the sites accessible by car or public transport?
No. Some locations like Tongariro and parts of Fiordland are accessible by car or shuttle, while the Subantarctic Islands require sea or air transport with approved tour providers.

Can I visit the Subantarctic Islands independently?
No. These islands are strictly protected and only accessible through approved guided expeditions with licensed operators. Independent travel is not permitted due to environmental sensitivity.

Content Disclaimer: This information is current as of April 2025. Please double-check with official sources, such as embassies and airlines, for the latest updates before finalizing your travel plans.