New Zealand's most iconic hiking trails

Roy’s Peak is the most representative hiking spot in Wanaka, South Island, New Zealand. It is famous for its magnificent mountain and lake scenery, especially the "Internet celebrity shooting spot" widely known on Instagram. The following is a detailed guide to help you complete this hiking trip smoothly. Basic information • Location: About 6 kilometers from the center of Wanaka town. • Hiking distance: 16 kilometers round trip (8 kilometers one way). • Altitude: 1578 meters (climbing about 1300 meters). • Duration: About 5-7 hours round trip, depending on personal physical strength and shooting time. • Difficulty: Medium to high, mainly continuous climbing, no technical difficulties, but requires good physical strength. • Opening hours: October 1 to May 10 every year (closed in winter to protect the sheep). Transportation and arrival 1. Self-driving: Starting from Wanaka Town, drive along Mount Aspiring Road to Roy’s Peak Track Carpark, which is about a 10-minute drive. The parking lot is small, so you need to arrive early to grab a parking space during peak season. 2. Travelers without a car: You can choose to rent a bicycle or book a local pick-up service. Detailed explanation of the hiking route 1. From the starting point to the middle section: It is a steep slope at the beginning, which requires patience and a sense of rhythm. You can enjoy the initial view of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains on the way. This is basically a sheep activity area, and you may encounter sheep dung. 2. From the middle section to the popular shooting point: When you reach about 3/4, you will see a fence and a viewing point, which is a famous shooting location. It is recommended to queue up patiently for photos (it may take more than 30 minutes to queue up during peak season). 3. From the shooting point to the summit: If your physical strength allows, continue to climb to the summit. Although there are not so many tourists in the higher part, the scenery is more spectacular, overlooking the entire Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. Equipment recommendations 1. Hiking equipment: • Comfortable hiking shoes (anti-slip, waterproof). • Quick-drying clothes and multiple layers of clothing (it may be colder at the top of the mountain). • Sun protection products: hats, sunscreen, sunglasses. • Hiking poles (to reduce pressure on the knees). 2. Supplies: • Bring at least 2 liters of water (no water supply point). • Energy snacks (such as chocolate, nuts). 3. Others: • Camera or mobile phone (make sure it is fully charged to take photos of Internet celebrities). • Garbage bags (protect the environment and do not leave garbage). Notes 1. Weather: The weather is changeable, please check the weather forecast in advance to avoid strong winds or rainy days. If the weather is too bad, the scenery may be affected. 2. Physical strength assessment: If you are physically weak, it is recommended to climb slowly and do not force yourself to reach the top. The viewing point is already beautiful. 3. Environmental protection: Please do not disturb the sheep or damage the vegetation, and take all the garbage back. Best time to shoot • Sunrise: The most ideal time, the sun shines on the top of the mountain, the colors are particularly beautiful, but you need to start hiking in the early morning. • Weekday morning: Avoid the crowds and reduce the waiting time for shooting. • Golden hour: From early morning to noon, when the weather is clear, the light and visibility are best.