Southern Alps Hike and Bike Details

The average driving time per day varies; we have some days where we hardly drive at all. On a typical day we might be in the vehicle for 2-3 hours. But some days we will drive for longer. The driving time is a chance to rest and enjoy the fantastic scenery that is forever changing. We travel in a minibus towing a custom-built trailer with food, equipment and your luggage. We carry a library box with some natural history reference books for you to peruse too. There will be a range of roads - sealed and unsealed. The guides are easily convinced to stop the vehicle if there is a great photo opportunity, vineyard or notable ice cream shop!

Additional Costs

All activities outlined in the itinerary are included in the trip price. Excluding the Glacier Explorers, Aoraki / Mt Cook

Meals out: Meals that are included in the trip price are detailed in the itinerary.

Grading & Fitness

Grade: C

Some uneven track surfaces and river crossings
At times carrying a backpack of 4-5kgs (8-10 lbs)
You need to be reasonably fit and enthusiastic

Accommodation

The Southern Alps Hike and Bike uses a range of lodges chosen for their wonderful locations. Accommodation is mainly queen or twin share with ensuite bathrooms. The two nights in Aoraki / Mt Cook National Park is staying at Unwin Lodge which classic group-style accommodation (bunk rooms).

What to Take

New Zealand’s weather is very changeable and cold weather can be experienced at any time of year, especially in the mountains. We recommend wearing lightweight and breathable fabrics while hiking. Merino or polypropylene underwear is great in cold weather and will still keep you warm when it gets wet, unlike cotton. Jeans are not suitable for hiking.

Essential Items:

hiking boots or shoes
day pack
waterproof raincoat (gore-tex or similar)
warm fleece/wool jersey (not cotton)
shorts or lightweight hiking trousers (preferably quick-dry)
polypro/thermals – top & bottom
long sleeve shirt (for sun protection)
4 pairs of socks
warm hat
sun hat, sunscreen and sunglasses
drink bottle (1 litre)
spare shoes or sandals
insect repellent
short-sleeved short (quick-dry, polypropylene or wool)
casual clothing for travel and evenings
gloves/mittens
bike shorts (if you have them)
towel (lightweight towels are great)
togs (swimming costume)

Recommended items:
Walking poles, camera, rain trousers.

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

Food

Almost all of the meals are included on this tour, but when staying in the cities we let you do your own thing and try some of the excellent local restaurants (see Additional Costs section). The lunches we prepare ourselves are often on the run in picnic areas or on trails. We provide healthy and wholesome food and include a lot of fresh produce. It is part of our philosophy to get everyone involved so there is a pretty good chance you may find yourself wielding a sharp knife or pushing the tea trolley around at lunchtime. Our customised trailers have a fold down table and cooking area that is perfect for preparing picnics at all those secret places we will take you. Included dinners are in lodge restaurants, or in a local pub!

Guides & Safety

An excellent guide can make the difference between a trip of a lifetime and just an ordinary trip. That is why we work hard to make sure we hire the best guides. Our handpicked professionals come from a range of backgrounds. Each has extensive outdoor and hiking experience and a passion for New Zealand’s wild and beautiful backcountry. Our guides will ensure that your time with us is truly inspiring, a huge amount of fun and safe. All guides are trained in Mountain Safety First Aid.

Please be gentle with your guide - good guides are hard to find!

Marios Gavalas

Tarsh Turner

Oli Evans

Ali Holley

Adrienne Stewart

Martin Leslie

Frequently Asked Questions

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 which effortlessly results in everyone getting to each other pretty well and pretty quickly - some becoming lifelong friends after travelling on our trips.

What can I do with my extra gear?

You can travel with it on tour. We allow a maximum space of 120 litres per person (1 large suit case plus a daypack).

I have dietary requirements, is that a problem?

Not at all. We often have a variety of dietary requirements and as long as you let us know at the time of booking we should be able to cater for this.

What is the weather going to be like?

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

Who is in my group?

A small group (maximum 12 people), with a range of ages, nationalities and work backgrounds. We have hosted guests 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.

How far in advance do I need to book?

The sooner the better for tours departing in the peak season (November to April). We get many advance bookings so it is important to book early to avoid disappointment.

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

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

Can I charge my camera/phone/laptop, etc. while on tour?

Yes. Most places we stay 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 we are driving.

Can I do laundry on tour?

Yes, most places we stay have laundry facilities. We recommend bringing items that are quick drying and plenty of spare pairs of socks and underwear.

What can we do in Queenstown?

Queenstown is a beautiful town tucked under the mountains and beside the crystal clear Lake Wakatipu. There are a huge number of adventure activities on offer here. You might like to take a thrilling jet boat ride, face your fears on the highest bungy in New Zealand, or paddle peacefully down a river on an inflatable funyak.

Many of New Zealand's famous Great Walks start within reach of Queenstown. The dramatic Hollyford Track in the heart of Fiordland National Park is a wonderful guided walk option. The unforgettable Milford Sound is a half-day drive from Queenstown. Steep cliffs and dense rainforest border this spectacular fiord that can be explored by boat. Whatever your preference, we can help you with any post-trip activities that you might like to add on to your New Zealand adventure.

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.

Hiking New Zealand Ltd is not liable for any cost or loss, directly or indirectly, from any personal disruption due to COVID-19. Such costs or losses include, but are not limited to: requirements to follow COVID-19 mandates, flights, accommodation, transfers, and other expenses incurred over and above the tour price. Once your tour has commenced there is no refund available for any portion due to any circumstances. Any decision regarding exceptions to this policy are at the discretion of Hiking New Zealand Ltd or the Operator of the trip if it is not Hiking New Zealand Ltd.

Payment:

For bookings four or more months before the departure, a 25% deposit can be paid with the remainder due 95 days before your trip. For bookings within four months of the departure, full payment is required.

Cancellations:

95 days or more: Full refund less $500 transferable deposit to future departure.
94 to 35 days: 50% of tour price forfeited.
34 days or less: 100% of 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 comprehensive travel insurance.

Southern Alps Hike and Bike

Tour Details

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Finish

DEPARTURE DATES

Prices

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Fitness grade