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Ultimate South Island

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  • Ultimate South Island
$7,400.00
NZD

DURATION

15 days

LOCATION

Nelson / Queenstown

Accommodation

Backcountry Huts, Cabins, Camping, Lodges

Grade

D (River crossings, some uneven terrain, you need to be reasonably fit and enthusiastic)

Departure dates

5 December, 2025
16 January, 2026
13 February, 2026
6 March, 2026

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Overview of your experience

Immerse yourself in the remarkable landscapes and culture of the South Island with hikes on lesser known gems as well as the iconic Great Walks.

Begin with a boat ride along the Abel Tasman National Park coastline to hike the coastal trail and camp a stone’s throw from the beach. Depart the park by a modern-day waka (Māori canoe), joining forces with a local waka guide to paddle the coastline on the lookout for seals and dolphins.

Travel south to the lush rainforests of the West Coast to hike up a limestone canyon, sleep under a massive rock overhang and cycle on the West Coast Wilderness Trail.

Head deep into the Southern Alps at Arthur’s Pass with an overnight hike into a remote backcountry hut. Explore the hiking trails around majestic Aoraki/Mt Cook, before heading south to Mount Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks to hike and camp among the soaring peaks, glaciers and fiords of the South West New Zealand World Heritage area.

The Ultimate South Island includes overnight hikes, day hikes, waka experience, cycling, and cruising or kayaking on Milford Sound making it the the ideal tour for the active and intrepid.

Highlights of your experience

  • Golden sand beaches of the Abel Tasman Coast Track and cultural waka experience

  • Wading a crystal-clear river through a dramatic limestone canyon in Paparoa National Park
  • Biking the West Coast Wilderness Trail
  • Majestic Aoraki/Mt Cook region - a rugged land of rock and ice
  • Cruising or kayaking the pristine waters of Milford Sound

Keen on some more background information about Abel Tasman and New Zealand's National Parks?

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