Family Southern Explorer Itinerary

DAY 1

Christchurch to Mt Somers

6-10 km/2-4 hour hiking.

Depart Christchurch and head south to mid-Canterbury. We make the most of hiking opportunities and will spend the first night of the tour away from civilisation in the Canterbury High Country. The hike into Mt Somers will go past an abandoned coal mine where we will stop and rest after the initial burst of climbing and explore some of the remaining (above ground) relics. As we continue hiking into the early afternoon we will keep an eye out for the New Zealand falcon as it is frequently seen in the area. The Woolshed Creek backcountry hut will be home for the night. After leaving our gear at the hut we will head off without our packs to spend the afternoon exploring some water caves and the Tri Falls stream. Includes lunch and dinner

DAY 2

Mt Somers to Mt Cook

9km/3 hours hiking

After our first night in a backcountry hut we head back down to the vehicle via the Rhyolite Ridge Track. The morning will be filled with dynamic views of waterfalls, rocky outcrops and pockets of regenerating forest. We will enjoy lunch at the vehicle before driving south to Lake Pukaki. There will be time to relish the jaw-dropping view of Mt Cook at the far end of the lake. Lake Pukaki is a glacial lake, it's deep waters have a mesmerising azure colour. Depending on the weather we have the option to camp at the lake and spend the later afternoon swimming or continue on to Mt Cook village and camp under the towering mountains of Mt Cook National Park. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner

DAY 3

Mt Cook

6-8km/4 hours hiking

Explore Photo Sphere

Today is a day of rewards! The hike to Sealy Tarns and onto Mueller Ridge provides more and more stunning views with every step. Just when you think you have taken the most impressive photo possible of the Hooker Valley and Mount Cook Range you will be rewarded with the mirror reflections of the peaks in the glorious Sealy Tarns. Take time to rest at the tarns and absorb the impressive peaks and valleys. This is the perfect opportunity for those that still have a spring in their step, after the climb to continue with the guide onto Mueller Ridge. From here the vista encompasses the Mueller Glacier and Mt Sefton. As we return to the village by the same route those that continued on to the ridge will meet up again with those who stayed on at the tarns for the descent.
The afternoon offers families and individuals the opportunity to explore the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre (Adult $20, Child 4 - 14 yrs $10), which does a marvellous job of showcasing the region and its people.
Tonight we camp at Whitehorse Hill. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner

DAY 4

Mt Cook to Mt Aspiring

8km/2-3 hours hiking

Explore Photo Sphere

This morning we continue our travels south to the majestic Lake Wanaka. We will enjoy a relaxed lunch next to the crystal clear waters of the lake. After lunch we pack our overnight backpacks before heading to the start of our walk in the walkers' paradise of Mt Aspiring National Park. The hike to the Aspiring Hut in the magnificent Matukituki Valley is a walker's paradise, with unforgettable views of high glaciated mountains and ice carved valleys. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner

DAY 5

Mt Aspiring to Queenstown

14km/6-7 hours hiking

Explore Photo Sphere

On the last day of this tour we have the opportunity to walk to the view point of Rob Roy Glacier. As we reach the tree-line the beech forest gives way to alpine vegetation. The hanging glaciers beneath Mount Rob Roy are spectacular. The glacier is active and you may be able to hear and see avalanches from this safe viewing point. The cheeky alpine kea may also join us for a little light entertainment - do not leave any gear unattended!

On the return walk to the vehicle we can meander alongside the Rob Roy Stream and take in the beautiful waterfalls dotted along the track. The final leg of the journey is a stunning drive over the Crown Range. As we reach the crest of the range we will stop, stretch our legs and take photos of the awe-inspiring Wakitipu Basin that leads into Queenstown.

This tour finishes in Queenstown, the Adventure Capital of New Zealand. There is no shortage of thrill seeking activities for any family in this resort town situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Includes breakfast and lunch

Notes:
This trip suits children from the age of about 13 years old (or adventurous 10 year olds).

Family Southern Explorer

Christchurch to Mt Somers

6-10 km/2-4 hour hiking.

Mt Somers to Mt Cook

9km/3 hours hiking

Mt Cook

6-8km/4 hours hiking

Mt Cook to Mt Aspiring

8km/2-3 hours hiking

Mt Aspiring to Queenstown

14km/6-7 hours hiking

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