At Hiking New Zealand, we’ve always believed that the trails of Aotearoa hold something special - not just breathtaking landscapes but transformative experiences. When shared with a group of like-minded women, these adventures take on an entirely new dimension, filled with camaraderie, encouragement, and the joy of conquering challenges together.
We proudly partner with a number of organisations and special interest groups from around the world, each bringing their own unique passion for adventure. One of our long-standing Australian partners, Women’s Fitness Adventures, is dedicated to creating life-changing experiences for women through hiking. Their commitment to fostering confidence and camaraderie on the trails aligns perfectly with our own ethos of adventure, discovery and connection. From the volcanic wonders of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing to the remote beauty of Fiordland and the Abel Tasman, their journeys embody the essence of what makes hiking so powerful: connection, empowerment, and unforgettable memories.
In this guest blog, Yvonne, Women's Fitness Adventure founder shares the unique bond that forms on female-only hiking trips, highlighting the strength, support, and lifelong friendships that blossom on the trail. Whether you're an experienced hiker or taking your first steps into the wild, these stories will inspire you to lace up your boots and embrace the adventure...
When you step onto any New Zealand trail with a group of like-minded women, magic happens. The breathtaking landscapes – from the towering peaks of Fiordland to the serene beauty of the Abel Tasman National Park and the fabulous trails of the North Island, all locations provide the perfect backdrop for something even more extraordinary: genuine connection.
At Women's Fitness Adventures, we’ve seen how these shared experiences transform not just the hikers themselves but the friendships and bonds they form along the way. New Zealand’s wild beauty, paired with the camaraderie of female-only hiking groups, creates an environment where women support women, laughter echoes continuously across valleys, and every achievement feels like a collective triumph.
On one of our recent hikes in New Zealand, the group of 10 Australian women hikers set out to conquer the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. For some, it was their first foray into such rugged terrain, and nervous energy rippled through the group as we laced up our boots at the trailhead. Yet collective courage prevailed.
Throughout the hike, the group’s diversity – in age, experience, and hiking confidence – became its greatest strength. Women who initially doubted their ability to complete the challenge were bolstered by others' encouragement. The words “Take it one step at a time” became a mantra, and by the end of the hike, every single woman stood in awe of the volcanic landscapes they’d conquered together.
As we gathered for a post-hike dinner, one of the women shared, “I’ve never felt so supported. I might have started this hike for me, but I’ll remember it for us.”
What makes female-only hiking groups special? It’s more than just the absence of competition or pressure; it’s about creating a space where women feel empowered to take on challenges, both on the trail and within themselves.
For many of our members, stepping into nature feels like stepping into freedom – free from judgment, free to laugh, stumble, and succeed together. The trust and friendships that form on these hikes often extend far beyond the trail.
For Australian women, New Zealand offers a unique allure. Its proximity and unparalleled diversity make it the ideal destination for group adventures. From multi-day hikes like the Routeburn Track to shorter, more accessible trails, there’s something for every level of experience.
Hiking New Zealand has been a trusted partner of Women’s Fitness Adventures for over a decade. Their expertise, coupled with the ethos of Women’s Fitness Adventures, ensures that every woman feels prepared, supported, and inspired.
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