Coastal Wanderer Custom Tour Details | Hiking New Zealand (HikingNZ)

Grade: B
Average of 4-5 hrs physical activity per day; up to 6 hours.
At times carrying small backpack of 4-5kgs.
Tracks generally in good condition.
Altitude gains of up to 600m on harder days.
No hiking experience necessary.
Reasonable standard of fitness required
Some energetic sections and climbs, but includes lots of time for relaxation and other activities.

Inclusions and Additional Costs

Optional activities: Sea Kayaking NZ$115* or half day NZ$90* (minimum of 2 people)
Optional activities are paid for during the trip.
*Prices correct at time of publishing.

Accommodation

Camping - You will camp in a range of campsites; on the Far North you will camp near the vehicle in Department of Conservation campsites or private campsites (single tent available on request). If the weather is not great for camping, eg very wet, stormy or cold conditions, your guide will seek out alternative accommodation, eg lodge, cabin or crib.

Transport

You will travel in a 10 or 12 seat minibus towing a trailer with camp equipment and your luggage. All vehicles have a public address system, and a stereo with a variety of music. It is also equipped with a range of natural history reference books. The average driving time per day is around 2-3 hours and there will be a range of roads - sealed and unsealed. The guide will often stop the vehicle for you to take photos. On some of the nights you will be camping by the vehicle.

Packing List

New Zealand's weather is very changeable so you need to be prepared for any eventuality. Thankfully, it's warmer up north so thermal underwear and warm hats become an option rather than a necessity. However, you still need to take the essential items listed below.

Watch the video of our Kiwi-Style Hiking packing list.

Essential Items:

hiking boots or shoes
day pack
2-season sleeping bag
waterproof raincoat (gore-tex or similar)
warm fleece/wool jersey (not cotton)
shorts for hiking (or lightweight hiking trousers)
long sleeve shirt (for sun protection)
3 pairs of socks
polypro/thermals – top & bottom (optional December to February)
warm hat (optional December to February)
gloves/mittens (optional December to February)
sun hat, sunscreen and sunglasses
drink bottle (1 litre)
spare shoes or sandals
insect repellent
dry bag for clothes/valuables
casual clothing for travel and evenings
beach towel

Optional items (but highly recommended):
Walking poles, camera, rain trousers, flashlight/headlamp

We supply:
First aid kit, drinking water, safety equipment and maps.

Luggage:
There is an allowance of one large pack, bag or suitcase plus one day pack.

Equipment Hire:
We have high quality hiking equipment which you can hire for our Hiking Tours. Please arrange hire gear when you book. Requests for a hire equipment must be made at least 5 days before the departure date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does everyone get involved with camp duties?

Everyone is fully involved with the running of the trip, from collecting firewood, to setting up camp and cooking meals. You are expected to do your share of work. If you are not a great cook, don't worry - your guide and other people in the group will help you.

Does it matter if I am travelling alone?

Most of the people on our tours are travelling alone. The tours are strong on group activities and participation including playing outdoor games, going for swims, helping one another to cross rivers, exploring secret places, and overcoming obstacles and challenges. You are encouraged to participate in activities, but if its not your thing that is also OK. Time is allowed for people to be by themselves if they need it.

What do I do with my valuables while hiking?

Keep them with you in your hiking pack. You can pack all those things in plastic bags to keep them dry and keep them with you while hiking.

I have specific dietary requirements - is that a problem?

Vegetarians, gluten free and dairy free hikers join our trips regularly. Please let us know in advance as meals take more planning. Everyone takes a turn in meal preparations, if you have complex dietary requirements you may need to be involved more frequently. It is advisable to join the trip with some of your own food items if you are worried. Once you are on the trip the guide may ask you to join him/her when they go food shopping. Preparing meals for several different dietary requirements in the wilderness with limited facilities can be challenging but with your help we can make it work.

What is the weather going to be like?

New Zealand experiences very changeable weather - especially in the remote mountainous regions where you will spend most of your time. Some days you can be broiling in 30 degrees and then the next day you could be freezing in a cool southerly from the sub Antarctic. It is best to be prepared for the worst conditions you are likely to expect - see the 'What to Take' section. You may get some rain on the trip so a good waterproof raincoat is important

Who is in my group?

A small group (maximum 11 people), with a range of ages, nationalities and work backgrounds. Seventy percent of people are between 20 and 40, though there are sometimes people from 17 to 72. On average, half are women and half are men. Everyone shares an enthusiasm for outdoor adventure and an appreciation of nature.

Who is in my group?

A small group (maximum 11 people), with a range of ages, nationalities and work backgrounds. Seventy percent of people are between 20 and 40, though there are sometimes people from 17 to 72. On average, half are women and half are men. Everyone shares an enthusiasm for outdoor adventure and an appreciation of nature.

What if I can't keep up with the rest of the group?

The group hikes together, stopping often for snacks and a good lunch. Some activities are optional if you feel like having some time out.

Can I charge my electronics while on tour?

About two or three times per trip you stay at places that have electricity so you will be able to recharge batteries. If you have a vehicle adapter, bring it along as there may be an opportunity to charge items while driving.

Can I do laundry on tour?

Yes, at least once, usually half way through the trip. It is recommended that you bring items that are quick drying and plenty of spare pairs of socks and underwear, since you will most likely have to line-dry clothing.

Booking Conditions

Prices and itineraries are subject to change.

Hiking New Zealand reserves the right to alter or amend any tour should the weather or any other situation require this. Hiking New Zealand finalises all tour logistics upon the express condition that they will not be liable for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity which may be brought about either by reason of weather, or defect in vehicle, vessel or aircraft or through the acts or lack of action of any company or persons engaged in transporting or guiding passengers, or arranging the tour.

Payment:
For bookings made four or more months prior to the departure date, a 25% deposit is required, with the remainder due 95 days before your trip. For bookings made within four months of the departure date, full payment is required at the time of booking.

Cancellations:

95 days or more prior to departure date: Full refund less a $500 transferable deposit per person to a future departure.
94 to 35 days: 50% of the tour price forfeited.
34 days or less: 100% of the tour price forfeited.

The tour price is all-inclusive. There will be no partial refunds or credits for unused services within a tour. Any unpaid, forfeited amount may be pursued as a debt.

Booking Assurance

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance. You will be asked to fill out a disclaimer before you begin a Hiking Safari. You must follow the instructions of your guide at all times. World Nomads Travel Insurance provides online quotes.

Coastal Wanderer Custom Tour

Tour Details

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Fitness grade

Frequently Asked Questions

Booking Conditions

Booking Assurance

Travel Insurance

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