Ellie Doughty
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North Island ▷ Waikato ▷ Matamata ▷
Rings Scenic Tours
Whilst a key stopping point for any Lord of the Rings fans it definitely is worth trying to find a less busy time!
Really awesome place but felt crowded and rushed when we were there.
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South Island ▷ Fiordland ▷ Milford Sound - Fiordland National Park ▷
Gertrude Saddle Route
Absolutely stunning day hike, starting from just before the Homer Tunnel.
Very steep and need to be sure footed, but offers great views into Milford Sound without the hundreds of people.
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South Island ▷ Mount Cook - MacKenzie ▷ Mount Cook ▷
Mueller Hut Route
Hugely popular day or overnight, but still definitely worth a look.
Alpine views and if your are lucky clear and beautiful stars.
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South Island ▷ Queenstown Region ▷ Glenorchy ▷
Mount / Mt Alfred
360 degree views up into paradise and down Lake Wakatipu are the reward of the day hike; worth saving it for a clear day.
Under the trees for a large part but then it does get a bit rocky and exposed at the top.
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South Island ▷ Wanaka Region ▷ Makarora ▷
Gillespie Pass Circuit
A proper tramping mission.
This 3 or 4 day hike is well worth it for the fit or experienced. Two great huts to stay at and a waterfall plunge pool included at one of them. It is pretty steep going over the Saddle but worth it as is the side trip to Crucible Lake!