New Zealanders are gearing up for another summer of naturing, based on a newly released Department of Conservation report.

And coastal destinations and short walks – giving easy access to nature – continue to be the favourites for Kiwis looking to make the most of the warmer weather.

Cat Wilson, the heritage and visitors director for the department (DoC), said the report painted a clear picture of how people were using public conservation land and waterways as a place to reset after a tough economic year.

She said short walks continued to dominate visitor activity, making up a large share of recreation across the motu, and many of the top 10 summer spots were coastal, reflecting how strongly Kiwis gravitate toward the water when the holidays arrive.

“Summer naturing doesn’t need to be complicated: a short walk, a swim, or time at a favourite beach or camp is still how most New Zealanders choose to relax and recharge,” Wilson said.

“The data confirms what many of us already know: people want simple, affordable ways to be in nature, especially after a challenging year.”

Great Walks, managed by DoC, remained a key part of how people were naturing.

Across the 2024/25 season, Great Walks recorded 154,000 bednights and a 78% occupancy rate, up 10% on last year.

International visitors contributed around 40% of bookings as global travel strengthened, while domestic walkers remained strong with close to 60% of bookings.

Despite some weather-related dips on individual walks, overall growth showed sustained demand for immersive, multiday journeys.

Summer naturing doesn’t need to be complicated: a short walk, a swim, or time at a favourite beach or camp is still how most New Zealanders choose to relax and recharge. Photo / DoC

International visitor numbers had rebounded to 3.38 million arrivals by June this year, 162,000 more than the previous year, and were now more than 90% of pre-Covid levels.

Beaches and national parks remain the backbone of the international itinerary, with 57% visiting a beach and 52% visiting a national park, and 72% heading out for a walk, most choosing short walks of less than three hours.

Fiordland, Aoraki/Mount Cook, Tongariro and Abel Tasman National Parks were still the biggest drawcards for international visitors.

Even with slightly shorter stays, international travellers were packing their itineraries full of nature experiences, meaning high-use national parks would see plenty of activity over the summer months.

With some of New Zealand’s most iconic places at their busiest over summer, Wilson encouraged visitors to think about how they get there, not just where they’re going.

“At places like Milford Sound, Aoraki/Mount Cook and Franz Josef, taking a shuttle instead of driving can make a real difference.

“It reduces congestion at busy sites, takes the pressure off car parks and roads, and lets people relax and enjoy the scenery while someone else does the driving.”

– Content supplied by DoC