After meeting your guide and fellow travellers, we set off from Christchurch for the impressive Canterbury High Country. We’ll dust off any cobwebs with a refreshing but relaxed hike in beautiful Arthur’s Pass National Park, before continuing to the remote West Coast where we’ll stop in Punakaiki, home of the aptly named Pancake Rocks. After a delicious meal, you’ll spend the night in comfortable accommodation with the sound of crashing waves lulling you to sleep.
Breathe in the fresh mountain air as we stretch our legs in one of New Zealand’s incredibly scenic National Parks. The majestic Southern Alps run like a backbone down the South Island, dividing it east and west into two distinct regions, with Arthur’s Pass serving as its gateway. This afternoon we’ll follow a flowing river to its source, the cascading water of the dramatic Devils Punchbowl Falls. With views up to Mount Rolleston and the permanent glaciers that carve their way down the mountain faces, this hike is a perfect introduction to your small group walking tour and New Zealand's beauty. Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Punakaiki. Includes lunch and dinner.
Located within the Paparoa National Park and with stunning views of the Tasman Sea, Scenic Hotel Punakaiki offers comfortable, environmentally friendly accommodation. The resort is situated only 300m from the famous Punakaiki Blowholes. Rooms are spacious and modern ensuring your evenings are spent in comfort.
Today we’ll discover one of New Zealand’s most untouched areas. With its towering limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, this area feels like something straight out of Jurassic Park. Today we’ll hike a fantastic track through Paparoa National Park, as well as check out the blowholes and limestone formations of the Pancake Rocks. This afternoon you have the option to explore the national park further on the Cave Creek trail. Or if you’d prefer, take a relaxing stroll along Punakaiki Beach – be sure to keep an eye out for pods of Hectors dolphins playing in the waves!
Limestone and eons of time are responsible for most of Paparoa National Park’s impressive landscape. For thousands of years, water ran over the relatively soft rock forming a topography known as karst. Characterized by deep river canyons, sculpted mountain ridges and an extensive network of caves and sinkholes, Paparoa’s landscape is covered in a lush layer of thick green rainforest. We’ll hike on the Porarari Track this morning through Paparoa National Park, a visually rich area made up of dense sub-tropical forest and limestone cliff gorges. You’ll also have the chance to check out an interesting geographical phenomenon in the town of Punakaiki – the curious looking but aptly named Pancake Rocks. The surge of the incoming sea is forced into chambers creating a geyser-like explosion through rock blowholes. The unusual limestone formations, overlaid with soft mud and clay, have been forged over millions of years by the immense pressure of the sea, wind and rain, creating the pancake effect we see today. Tonight we stay in Punakaiki again. Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Punakaiki. Includes breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Enjoy a second night at the Scenic Hotel Punakaiki with stunning ocean views.
It’s an enjoyable journey this morning as we travel down the coast to the tiny township of Okarito. Along the way, there’s panoramic views of the Southern Alps, virgin West Coast rainforest and rugged Tasman Sea coastline. Home to New Zealand’s largest coastal lagoon, the best way to appreciate Okarito is by kayak. Accompanied by specialist local guides, enjoy the majestic views and abundant birdlife. If you’d like to head out walking this afternoon, there’s a fantastic trail on our doorstep providing elevated views of the coastline. We’ll overnight in the nearby township of Franz Josef Glacier.
Gliding across the waters of Okarito Lagoon in a kayak is undoubtedly the most peaceful way to enjoy this spectacular coastal wetland. Okarito is known for its outstanding population of birdlife, over 70 species of birds have been recorded here. The lagoon is a common feeding ground for kotuku (white heron) and royal spoonbill, both of which breed in the nearby Waitangiroto Nature Reserve. Quietly paddling around this tranquil waterway, with the mighty Southern Alps as our backdrop, you’ll have the best chance of observing the birdlife in their natural habitat, without disturbing them. Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Tonight’s accommodation is at Franz Josef Glacier. The hotel offers everything you need to be able to explore this dramatic region in style and comfort. With an exceptional restaurant, serving hearty, West Coast fare, and the Moa Bar with its open fireplace, you are never without choice.
Keep your camera handy today to capture the picture-perfect views of Lake Matheson and Franz Josef Glacier’s terminal face, as we enjoy our morning hike together in Glacier Country. We then continue along the West Coast to our third National Park of the trip, Mount Aspiring. You’ll sleep soundly tonight in the relaxed lakeside town of Wanaka.
At 12 kilometres (7.4 miles) in length, Franz Josef Glacier is the largest and most accessible of the West Coast glaciers. The terminal valley itself is a testament to the sheer force of nature. The valleys and lakes around the Franz Josef township are remnants of the ice age and provide some excellent hiking trails for us today. We’ll hike to terminal face of Franz Josef Glacier, as well as stretching our legs on the Lake Matheson track. The reflections in the water of our highest peak Aoraki/Mount Cook are outstanding!
As we make our way down the coast and inland, the stunning views continue. Once over the Haast Pass, the landscape changes dramatically as we head into the mountains. Linking the West Coast to Central Otago, this pass was used by early Maori on Pounamu (jade) gathering expeditions. We follow the Haast River into Mount Aspiring National Park and the Wanaka Lakes area to continue our luxury walking tour of New Zealand. Accommodation: Edgewater Resort. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Enjoy a tranquil and relaxing stay at Edgewater Resort, located on the shore of Lake Wanaka. All well-appointed rooms have lake and mountain views, and either a patio or balcony from which to appreciate the vista unfolding before you. The on-site café and restaurant offer seasonal menus and stunning lake views.
This morning we’ll cruise across picturesque Lake Wanaka to the tiny island wildlife sanctuary of Mou Waho. Guided by an experienced ecologist, we’ll explore one of the most magical spots on the South Island. In the afternoon we’ll take in more breath-taking views as we make our way over the Crown Range to the alpine resort town of Queenstown, where we’ll stay for the next three nights.
Close to the centre of Lake Wanaka is Mou Waho Island Nature Reserve, accessible by a 35-minute boat ride. Accompanied by our favourite eco warrior and long-time local guide, we’ll walk a well-formed track that gently climbs through native bush to the top of Tyrwhitt Peak. Just before the top we come to Arethusa Pool, a small lake on the island, with yet more islands in it – very intriguing. From our vantage point there’s a sweeping 360-degree view of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains and valleys. On a hot day, there’s nothing like a refreshing dip in the cool clean waters of the lake.
Our afternoon drive takes us through the Cardrona Valley and over the Crown Range, down into the Wakatipu Basin. Prepare to be wowed as we wind our way down the mountain road and towards the bustling hub of Queenstown on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Accommodation: Queenstown Ramada Central. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Right in the heart of Queenstown, this laid-back luxury hotel is one of the best-located accommodations on offer. Right in the heart of Queenstown and enjoying views of the mountains, lake and botanical gardens, it’s less than five minutes' walk to Queenstown’s many boutique shops, restaurants, bars and cafes. You’ll enjoy excellent service and a quiet stay in a tastefully decorated ensuite room with crisp white linen. The perfect base to enjoy Queenstown’s endless opportunities for adventure or just simply relax in style in this idyllic location.
This morning we travel to Glenorchy at the top of the lake following the shoreline road - a journey regularly voted one of the best drives in the world. And you can’t help but see why, the views are captivating. We have the whole day to wend our way on the Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s nine ‘Great Walks’. There are different options available depending on how far you’d like to hike. We’ll head back at the end of the day for our next night in Queenstown.
Today will be one of the hiking highlights of the trip, as we walk a section of the famous Routeburn Track. Once on the trail your guides will lead you through lush beech forest (Lord of the Rings fans might spot some familiar landscapes from the movies around here). The track meanders alongside the clear waters of the river and down into the meadows of Routeburn Flats – the perfect spot for a picnic lunch.
As with all our hikes, there’s lots of flexibility. If you want to push yourself and really get your pulse pumping, or you’d rather just enjoy a relaxed hike on the flat trail, there are options to suit. No matter what you decide, the views will be equally magnificent. Accommodation: Queenstown Ramada Central. Includes breakfast and lunch.
Enjoy a second night at the Ramada Hotel Queenstown.
Today you’ll be spoilt for choice in the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’, Queenstown. A world-class mountain resort nestled on the shores of the sleeping giant, Lake Wakatipu. The activity options here are endless; on land, water and even in the air – relaxing also permitted, of course!
There’s something for everyone, from adrenalin activities like bungy jumping and jet boat rides, to more gentle pursuits such as wine tasting, a round of golf or a spa treatment. Famous as a winter ski destination, Queenstown is equally magnificent in spring, summer and autumn. Today is yours to make the most of what Queenstown has to offer, your guides will be able to point you in the right direction to ensure you do. After a day spent soaking it all up, you’ll enjoy a third night in your Queenstown lakeside accommodation. Accommodation: Queenstown Ramada Central. Includes breakfast.
On your final night in Queenstown, enjoy the amenities on offer at the Ramada Queenstown Central.
Today is the day that you’ll forevermore recall the moment someone mentions New Zealand. Moody and dramatic, Milford Sound is simply stunning and offers what is surely the most spectacular fiord scenery in the southern hemisphere. We’ll start our morning with an extraordinary drive through diverse landscapes with incredible views. The Eglington Valley, our first glimpse of the Hollyford, the Divide and the Homer Tunnel are just some of the highlights on this journey. You'll get a chance to explore the Milford Sound foreshore before we are whisked away in a helicopter to Martins Bay.
Flying over Milford Sound you’ll see massive vertical granite walls rising from the sea and waterfalls cascading either side as you fly into stunning Martins Bay for your exclusive group experience. We’ll then hike to the Long Reef seal colony where we can view the New Zealand fur seals at close quarters. If we are lucky, we may even catch a glimpse of the rare Fiordland crested penguin. Then we’ll jump onboard a jetboat for an exhilarating end to our day and a short ride to tonight’s exclusive accommodation nestled in the wilderness. On arrival, we’ll be greeted by our wonderful lodge hosts who will be preparing an incredible three-course meal for us to indulge in. After you dine, our host will tell you all about your serene surroundings and the exciting day ahead of you tomorrow. Accommodation: Martins Bay Lodge, Fiordland National Park. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The remote Martins Bay Lodge is located in the isolated and rugged wilderness of Fiordland, yet offers a level of hospitality, comfort and indulgence you may not expect so far from civilisation. Enjoy the remarkable scenery surrounding you while your hosts prepare your delicious evening dinner. The lodge is very well appointed with dining and lounge areas, open fires, drying rooms, separate flush toilet and shower facilities with unlimited hot water, soap, shampoo, towels and hair dryers provided.
Due to its remote location, Martins Bay Lodge is the one exception to our ensuite rule. Facilities in the lodge are shared single-sex, with male and female bathrooms. If you would prefer an ensuite room, you can opt to stay an additional night back in Milford Sound.
Regarded by many as New Zealand’s most beautiful wilderness valley, this is the perfect setting for another incredible walking experience. Our Fiordland Experience continues today with a jetboat across Lake McKerrow and up the Hollyford River before your expert Hollyford guide leads you off on your day’s hiking through the World Heritage beauty of the Hollyford Track.
The Hollyford Track is the only major track in Fiordland that is consistently at a low altitude, undulating gently through native forests, beside picturesque lakes and roaring waterfalls as we shadow the swift, clear waters of the Hollyford River. Naturally spectacular, this valley has an unparalleled diversity of vegetation and wildlife with 1,000-year-old giant rimu trees, ancient beech forest, intricate ferns, crimson southern rata, and emerald mosses and lichens of the under-story. Our private Hollyford Expert is on hand to point out that each precious piece of nature completely enriches the experience.
We’ll spend the day walking out of the valley along the beautiful Hollyford Track. This evening, we’ll return to civilisation, spending the night in Te Anau. Accommodation: Distinction Te Anau. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Enjoy a second night at the Distinction Te Anau, surrounded by extensive, colourful gardens and overlooking the spectacular Lake Te Anau and the Fiordland ranges.
Today we'll journey across Lake Manapouri, over the breathtaking Wilmot Pass and into the heart of Fiordland National Park. Spanning a staggering 40 kilometres (25 miles) from the head of the fiord to the Tasman Sea, Doubtful Sound is the deepest of New Zealand’s 14 fiords and one of the most spectacular.
Doubtful Sound is known as Patea to the Maori people - meaning ‘place of silence’. On your nature cruise of the fiord, you'll find silence amongst a dramatic landscape with echoing birdsong or cascading waterfalls the only sound to break the stillness. With no road to the fiord, the experience of getting to Doubtful Sound is an adventure in itself. We'll firstly board a boat to cruise across the peaceful Lake Manapouri before crossing Wilmot Pass and descending into Doubtful Sound where we'll take our nature cruise. This is your chance to learn more about the unique Fiordland environment from your Doubtful Sound nature guide on board while enjoying the sights, sounds and wildlife of the fiord. This evening we'll retire to our hotel for some delicious kai (the Maori word for food) and a well-earned rest. Accommodation: Distinction Te Anau. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Enjoy a second night at the Distinction Te Anau, surrounded by extensive, colourful gardens and overlooking the spectacular Lake Te Anau and the Fiordland ranges.
After a relaxed start this morning, we'll make our way to the gorgeous mountain setting of Gibbston Valley, where we'll enjoy a selection of locally-produced wines and a leisurely lunch. This afternoon we’ll journey to the heart of the Southern Alps, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, an area of vast snow-covered mountains and glacier-fed lakes. We’ll then stay the night in our most famous mountain hotel, the Hermitage at Mount Cook.
This National Park is truly a jewel in New Zealand’s crown. Named in honour of our highest peak, the majestic mountains tower above bright turquoise lakes surrounded by vast fields of golden tussock. With a settlement population of less than 100 people and building restrictions enforced, Aoraki/Mount Cook offers not only a feast for the eyes, but a rare tranquillity that soothes the soul. Accommodation: Hermitage Hotel. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is home to Australasia’s tallest peak, the mighty Aoraki Mt Cook soaring above at 3724m. The iconic Hermitage Hotel is nestled in the shadow of this imposing peak and is ideally located for exploring the Park’s many walks, hikes and adventures. Enjoy the views with a barista-made coffee or visit the Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre museum and planetarium, before resting tonight in your comfortable ensuite room.
The last full day on your New Zealand luxury walking tour will be one of the most unforgettable. Home to not only our highest and most sacred mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park boasts a further 19 peaks topping over 3000 metres. After a scenic glacier boat tour this morning, options this afternoon include hiking, exploring the village or a glacier heli-hike for truly mind-blowing views. Whichever option you choose you won’t be disappointed. After a full day of activities, we’ll meet up and return to the Hermitage Hotel for our final dinner together and a chance to trade stories from the day. Your last night of the trip will be a memorable evening as you look back on your adventure and the places you’ve travelled.
Some of New Zealand’s best alpine hikes are found here. Surrounded by the peaks where Edmund Hillary honed his mountaineering skills before successfully summiting Mount Everest with Tenzing Norgay in 1953, you’ll want to explore for yourself. Mount Cook, or Aoraki “the Cloud Piercer” as named by the Maori people, stands proudly at its heart raising up to the imposing height of 3724 metres (over 12,000 feet). The glacier boat cruise this morning takes us across the terminal lake to the ancient ice face of the Tasman Glacier, affording us incredible up-close views – keep your camera at the ready!
Option 1: Walk the Hooker Valley Track
This is one of the South Island's most popular trails in glacier country. When you look down from the impressive swing bridges down to the rushing river below that leads you all the way to an alpine lake complete with icebergs, you'll understand why. For flower lovers, the Hooker Valley is one of the best places to see Mount Cook lilies in season.
Option 2: Free time around Mt Cook Village
Today is a great opportunity to explore on your own. Visit the museum and planetarium in the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, take some short walks or just soak in the views with a coffee and a book. Accommodation: Hermitage Hotel. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Enjoy a second night at the iconic Hermitage Hotel located in the heart of Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park.
Enjoy your final taste of the incredible Mackenzie Country scenery as we make our way back to the city of Christchurch. The unreal colours of Lakes Pukaki and Tekapo contrast against our highest peaks in the distance, creating the perfect backdrop for photos you’ll treasure in years to come. After 13 days of extraordinary experiences, adventures, friendship and fun, we’ll say our goodbyes with drop-offs at Christchurch airport or your city accommodation. You’ll leave feeling refreshed and satisfied in the knowledge that you’ve made the very most of your time in New Zealand. Includes breakfast and lunch.
