Whether you’re just now getting acquainted with the works of New Zealand national treasure Taika Waititi, or if you’ve been a fan since his first Oscar-nominated short was released, you’ll be familiar with his ability to storytell while showcasing some of the most stunning landscapes his film locations have to offer. Any viewer of ‘Hunt For The Wilderpeople’ will know that by far this film does the most visual bragging on New Zealand’s behalf, and if you’re keen to go and visit the locations yourself, you’ll find they make for an excellent scenic tour through the country.
Alpine Crossing, Tangarioro National Park
A 19 kilometre trek through some of New Zealand’s most scenic mountain ranges, this unmissable hike is full to the brim of natural wonder. You can admire the waterfalls and turquoise lakes as you pass through the scenery that hosted the film’s extraordinary car chase scene.
Sitting just out of Auckland, this national park is the primary location for much of Waititi’s sophomore film. Featuring an expansive 250km of walking tracks, you can see why it might’ve been so easy for Ricky and Hec to get lost. Whether you’re looking to walk or take in the scenery by car, the spectacular forested hills of the ranges hold everything a nature-loving tourist (or local) could wish for.