Southern Masterpiece Itinerary | Hiking New Zealand (HikingNZ)

DAY 1

Queenstown to Aoraki/Mt Cook

5.5 km (3.3mi), 1-2 hours hiking, +/-6m (19ft) elevation

Meet your guides and fellow travellers, we’ll head out for a dose of fresh mountain air on a scenic walk. As part of your introduction to New Zealand, we’ll travel to the historic Arrowtown, a quaint old gold-mining settlement just a short drive from Queenstown. Today you’ll be walking the Arrow River Bridge Trail, a favourite weekend walk for locals. While you are walking the Arrow River Trail, you'll have the opportunity to plant a native seedling and leave a small legacy of your own here in New Zealand.

After a morning of exploring, we’ll head to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, the home of New Zealand’s highest peak standing tall at 3,724m (over 12,000 feet). Along the way, we’ll travel over the Lindis Pass and down into wide open valleys before catching our first glimpse of Aoraki/Mt Cook, ‘the cloud piercer’ as it’s known in Māori. This area is a UNESCO International Dark Sky Reserve, which means all you need do is step outside and look up for some world-class star-gazing this evening. Includes lunch and dinner

Accommodation

Set in the heart of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, the lodge is ideally situated for
exploring the National Park’s many walks. The Mount Cook village itself is a lovely spot to
enjoy the views with a barista-made coffee, or visit the Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
museum and planetarium. An internationally recognised Dark Sky Reserve, the night sky
here is truly outstanding with myriads of stars visible to the naked eye. You’ll sleep well
tonight in a comfortable ensuite room.

DAY 2

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Up to 4 km, 3-4 hours hiking, elevation +/- 540m (1772ft)

After a sound night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, it’s time to set foot on the trails this morning. Boasting views normally reserved for serious mountaineers, our hikes today take us into the heart of the National Park and provide jaw-dropping vistas for our efforts. Home to not only its namesake, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park boasts a further 19 peaks topping more than 3,000 metres. This morning you'll have a choice of hiking to either Sealy Tarns or Kea Point or you can book an additional activity - a glacier heli-hike or a boat tour to replace the morning hikes. In the afternoon you will hike the Tasman Glacier View Track and Governors Bush Track.

Whichever option you decide on, you won’t be disappointed. After a full day of activities, we’ll meet up and return to our accommodation for a delicious meal and a chance to trade stories from the day or do some more stargazing. Includes breakfast lunch and dinner

Hike to Sealy Tarns

This route is one seriously rewarding leg workout. Known fondly as the ‘stairmaster’ or the ‘stairway to heaven’, you’ll pull yourself up exactly 1,882 steps to Sealy Tarns where the views out over the Mueller and Hooker Lakes are out of this world. It’s the most challenging option today and involves a steep but steady climb on a well-formed track. The views are worth every drop of sweat.

Hike Kea Point & Hooker Valley Lookout

For those seeking a more relaxed option, you'll walk to Kea Point and the Hooker Valley Lookout. On this well-formed track, you'll enjoy a steady climb on a gentle gradient as you make your way to the Hooker Valley lookout. From here you'll be able to take in Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Hooker Valley in all their glory.

Optional Extras

Glacier Heli-Hike (NZD$945),

Take a helicopter up to land high on the Tasman, New Zealand’s longest glacier, and in the company of an experienced guide, don crampons to explore the dramatic ice caves of this frozen wonderland. If you book this additional activity, it will replace the hike to Red Tarns.

Glacier Lake Boat Tour (NZD$209)

Hop aboard a Zodiac boat and set off across the iceberg-filled lake for an up-close encounter with the Tasman Glacier’s terminal face. If you book this scenic boat tour, it will replace the hike to Red Tarns.

Accommodation

Set in the heart of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, the lodge is ideally situated for
exploring the National Park’s many walks. The Mount Cook village itself is a lovely spot to
enjoy the views with a barista-made coffee, or visit the Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
museum and planetarium. An internationally recognised Dark Sky Reserve, the night sky
here is truly outstanding with myriads of stars visible to the naked eye. You’ll sleep well
tonight in a comfortable ensuite room.

DAY 3

Aoraki Mt Cook to Christchurch

Up to 4.2km (2.6 mi), 1 hour hiking, +/- 82m (269ft) elevation

Today’s journey takes us from mountain to ocean as we head through the fertile plains of Canterbury towards the East Coast. We’ll begin the day with a short hike along the shores of Lake Pukaki admiring it’s beautiful turquoise waters accompanied by views of the beautifully desolate Mackenzie Country. After our hike we’ll make our way towards Tekapo on our way to Christchurch. We’ll take our time, stopping at some of our other favourite spots along the way to stretch our legs and capture the glorious views.

This morning, we’ll enjoy the stunning views across Lake Pukaki and the surrounding mountains. The Pukaki Kettle Hole Track is a scenic walk set along the shores of Lake Pukaki. The trail winds through golden tussock to a collection of ancient kettle holes; shallow depressions left behind by retreating glaciers. After our walk, we’ll continue on towards Christchurch, watching the scenery shift from tussock and mountains to the fertile Canterbury Plains.

The city of Christchurch is a lovely spot with a mix of green parks and state-of-the-art architecture. The Avon River weaves its way through a city in the process of regeneration with plenty to see including the colourful Spanish Mission architecture of New Regent Street, curious cardboard cathedral and lush botanical gardens. Discover amazing street-art and innovative projects as the new urban heart of the city blends with the garden-like greenery of the old. Includes breakfast lunch and dinner

DAY 4

Christchurch to Kaikōura

7.1km (4.4mi), 2 hours hiking, +/- 148m (485ft) elevation

After a relaxed breakfast, we'll enjoy a coastal walk on the Godley Head Track offers stunning coastal views and a bit of history too, this remote headland once served as a World War II coastal defence site. On a clear day, you’ll spot the Southern Alps to the west and the vast Pacific stretching out to the east.

Just north of Christchurch lies the small coastal town of Kaikoūra. The Kaikoūra Peninsula is a striking area set on the edge of a deep continental shelf where towering cliffs meet an ocean floor that plunges even further in the other direction. The nutrient-rich water and startling topography has created a unique mecca for an abundance of marine life. Whales, dolphins, fur seals and more are thriving in ideal conditions and are a regular sight in the waters off the mainland. Tonight, if we’re lucky we’ll catch an impressive sunset over the ocean as we enjoy a delicious and quintessentially Kiwi dinner of fish and chips on the beach. Includes breakfast lunch and dinner

DAY 5

Kaikōura to Queen Charlotte Sound

Today’s an unforgettable day and a dream come true for wildlife lovers. The early start is well worth it for the best chance at meeting some of the local wildlife that calls this area home. We’ll don wetsuits to swim with a pod of dolphins in their natural environment. Of course, this is dependent on whether the dolphins cooperate, but they usually do! These dolphins are totally wild and it's their choice whether they interact with us or not, however, these dusky dolphins are well-known for their interactive behaviour as well as their acrobatic feats and usually love to put on a show for us. The tour is an educational experience that is designed not to interfere with the natural behaviour, routines or habitat of the dolphins. There are strict regulations in place to protect and respect the dolphins and to keep you safe in the water. The boats are well-equipped with swimming/snorkelling platforms. Whether you opt to get in the water or watch from the boat, it’s a joyful experience for all. Many of our guests have told us this is one of the highlights of their New Zealand adventure tour.

We’ll carry on to the town of Picton, where we water taxi across Queen Charlotte Sound to our accommodation for the night, where you can explore some of the world-famous Queen Charlotte Track. Set amongst a landscape of native plants and abundant birdlife, with views of the glistening bay, you’ll enjoy an excellent meal and the chance to truly relax in this remote but well-equipped location. Includes breakfast lunch and dinner

Accommodation

This unique place is a lodge, wildlife recovery and arts centre so there is plenty to explore.
You will arrive under your own steam by kayaking across the sound to the lodge beach,
where you’ll be welcomed by the hosts and shown to your homely room. Explore the
sculpture trail, visit the rescued wildlife and discover more about their conservation
programmes before enjoying an excellent meal with an amazing view from the restaurant
overlooking the Sound.

DAY 6

Queen Charlotte Sound to Nelson

Up to 8km (5 mi), 4 hours kayaking

After a nourishing breakfast at the lodge, we’ll take to the water in our kayaks and paddle back to Picton, exploring some hidden coves and bays along the way. Gliding along on the water is a lovely way to spend the morning while you check out the beautiful coastline.

Home to some of New Zealand’s best vineyards, the Marlborough region is famous for producing excellent wines savoured around the world. We will sample some impeccable wines from this region, before carrying on towards Nelson and our accommodation for the next two nights. Includes breakfast and lunch

DAY 7

Explore Nelson

Today is yours to enjoy as you wish. Nelson, “the sunniest place in NZ” and the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park, is famous for its arts scene, award-winning wines, craft beers and fruit orchards, with plenty to keep you entertained within walking distance. Many of our guests are happy to spend a relaxed day exploring Nelson, browsing the shops and galleries, strolling along the beach or reading a book, it’s a lovely place to re-energise yourself for the rest of your adventure. There are over 350 local craftspeople and artists creating Māori, traditional and contemporary art in the area, so it’s also a chance to discover what inspires New Zealanders creatively.

If you’d prefer something a little more active on your free day, we can help you book a tour to explore Abel Tasman National Park on foot or by kayak. Abel Tasman is famous for its glorious coastline, where golden sand beaches meet clear blue seas.

DAY 8

Nelson to Punakaiki

10.8 km (6.7 mi), 3-4 hours hiking, +/- 361m (1184 ft) elevation

Today we’ll leave Nelson and begin our day by making our way to St Arnaud for a hike in Nelson Lakes National Park. Nelson Lakes National Park encompasses the northernmost ranges of the Southern Alps. This 101,733 hectare national park is abundant with mountain ranges, beech forest, rivers and glacial lakes. This morning we'll walk alongside Lake Rotoiti to the hidden Whiskey Falls, the 40m waterfall is surrounded by thick walls of moss and fern and is the perfect spot for a picnic.

Our next destination takes us to the wild West Coast, a journey rated by Lonely Planet readers as one of the best coastal drives in the world. Rainforests, rivers and glaciers meet deserted beaches and crashing waves, making for a unique and sometimes stark coastline. Sunsets on the West Coast are incredibly special and tonight you’ll see just why. Includes breakfast lunch and dinner

DAY 9

Punakaiki to Franz Josef

4.3 km (2.7 mi), 1-1.5 hours hiking, +/- 123m (403ft) elevation

We’ll hike the Porarari Loop 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.

After our hike, we’ll visit the quirky town of Hokitika, and drop in on Pounamu (greenstone/jade) carvers at work. We’ll spend a relaxed evening in the tiny town of Franz Josef, tucked into the Southern Alps right in the heart of Glacier Country. Includes breakfast lunch and dinner

DAY 10

Lake Matheson to Wānaka

4.2 km (2.6 mi), 1.5-2 hours hiking, +/- 126m (413ft) elevation

We kick-start our day with a walk around the stunning Lake Matheson, here you'll enjoy stunning views of Aoraki/Mt Cook and our towering Southern Alps, then travel south down the coast, exploring some of our stunning beaches before we head towards the Haast Pass to enjoy the famous Haast River Jet Boat experience. Jet boats were invented in 1954 in New Zealand by Sir William Hamilton for the shallow waters of our braided rivers. Most visitors only see this area from the roadside, our exclusive jet boat trip will get you deep into the heart of this World Heritage wilderness area.

This afternoon we travel on to the vast beauty and open spaces of Central Otago spend the next two nights in Wānaka, a charming lakeside resort snug amongst the mountains. Includes breakfast lunch and dinner

Accommodation

A stunning lakeside retreat, with charming apartment style accommodation, offering you the
opportunity to relax and unwind in luxury after a busy day in the outdoors. Take advantage of
the spa and sauna facilities before or after dinner, or take a walk along the lakefront track for
incredible panoramic views of Lake Wānaka and the Southern Alps.

DAY 11

Hike Wānaka

Up to 7 km (4.1 mi), 4 hours hiking, +/- 622m (2024ft) elevation

After a peaceful night in our lakefront accommodation, you’ll have the option of having either a relaxed start to the day or joining your guides on a hike up Rocky Mountain for an exceptional outlook across Lake Wanaka and the surrounding peaks.

If you’re feeling keen to lace up your hiking boots your day will start with a hike to Diamond Lake to appreciate the sweeping views out over the Southern Alps and Lake Wānaka. If you fancy more of a challenge, you can carry on up the Rocky Mountain trail. It’s a steady climb and one that will no doubt get your heart pumping, but with each passing step, the scenery just gets better and better, making it all worth it at the top.

If you’d prefer to have a more relaxed morning, there’s plenty to do in the town itself, from great coffee and boutique gift shops to a gentle amble along the beach and an obligatory photo in front of Wānaka’s ‘giant hand’ sculpture. We’ll regroup this evening for a delicious meal together in a local eatery. Includes breakfast lunch and dinner

Accommodation

A stunning lakeside retreat, with charming apartment style accommodation, offering you the
opportunity to relax and unwind in luxury after a busy day in the outdoors. Take advantage of
the spa and sauna facilities before or after dinner, or take a walk along the lakefront track for
incredible panoramic views of Lake Wānaka and the Southern Alps.

DAY 12

Wānaka to Te Anau

7.3 km (4.5 mi), 2.5 hours hiking, +/- 176m (577ft) elevation

Today we’ll then make our way to the Kepler Track, and enjoy our first glimpse of Fiordland National Park. Breathe in the fresh Fiordland air with an afternoon walk along a pleasant section of the Kepler Track, one of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks. The Kepler Track is renowned for its vivid green moss, lush forest, and stunning mountains. We’ll meander through native beech forest before emerging at a spectacular viewpoint over a beautiful wetland.

After a full day of spectacular views, we'll head to Te Anau - the gateway to the fiords - in preparation for our journey into Milford Sound tomorrow. Includes breakfast lunch and dinner

DAY 13

Milford Sound

Today’s the big one! Milford Sound is calling. After spending the last two weeks exploring the best of New Zealand, we’ve saved something truly special for last.

This morning we’ll journey deep into Fiordland National Park, where ancient rainforests, mirror-like lakes and towering granite peaks create a world unlike anywhere else on earth. The road to Milford is a highlight in itself. Keep your camera close and your eyes peeled for cheeky kea and sweeping alpine vistas around every bend.

Once we reach the water, it’s time to experience Milford Sound from the water. You'll glide past towering cliffs and dramatic waterfalls as we cruise out toward the Tasman Sea. Look for seals lazing on rocks, penguins darting along the shoreline, and dolphins riding the bow wave. Rain or shine, Milford Sound always delivers. On a clear day, the reflections are mesmerising. But if it’s raining, it's even better! That’s when hundreds of waterfalls appear, tumbling down sheer rock faces in a dramatic show of nature’s power. If you’re feeling brave, head to the front of the boat and let the spray hit your face. It’s a moment you’ll never forget, a perfect ending.

Tonight, back in Te Anau, you’ll enjoy your final evening with your fellow travellers, now fast friends. After 13 days of unforgettable adventure, stunning landscapes, and more than a few laughs, you’ve truly experienced the best of New Zealand’s South Island. Sleep easy tonight, knowing you’ve made the most of every moment. Includes breakfast lunch and dinner

DAY 14

Queenstown

10.6 km (6.5mi), 3 hours hiking, +/- 31m (101ft) elevation

On the last morning of the trip, we'll make our way back to Queenstown, marvelling at the incredible views en route. After lunch you’ll have a chance to head out for one last stunning walk from Jack’s Point to Kelvin Heights (a favourite amongst locals), before saying our fond farewells at the airport or your accommodation.

Our last journey together is a scenic trip through small farming towns, before tracing the shoreline of the impressive Lake Wakatipu back to Queenstown for the last hike of the trip. The Jack’s Point to Kelvin Heights walk traces the shores of Lake Wakatipu and offers incredible sweeping views of swaying tussock and The Remarkables mountain range.

This afternoon we'll finish our adventure in Queenstown, and it’s time to say goodbye to your guides, travel companions and new-found friends.

Southern Masterpiece

Queenstown to Aoraki/Mt Cook

5.5 km (3.3mi), 1-2 hours hiking, +/-6m (19ft) elevation

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Up to 4 km, 3-4 hours hiking, elevation +/- 540m (1772ft)

Aoraki Mt Cook to Christchurch

Up to 4.2km (2.6 mi), 1 hour hiking, +/- 82m (269ft) elevation

Christchurch to Kaikōura

7.1km (4.4mi), 2 hours hiking, +/- 148m (485ft) elevation

Kaikōura to Queen Charlotte Sound

Queen Charlotte Sound to Nelson

Up to 8km (5 mi), 4 hours kayaking

Explore Nelson

Nelson to Punakaiki

10.8 km (6.7 mi), 3-4 hours hiking, +/- 361m (1184 ft) elevation

Punakaiki to Franz Josef

4.3 km (2.7 mi), 1-1.5 hours hiking, +/- 123m (403ft) elevation

Lake Matheson to Wānaka

4.2 km (2.6 mi), 1.5-2 hours hiking, +/- 126m (413ft) elevation

Hike Wānaka

Up to 7 km (4.1 mi), 4 hours hiking, +/- 622m (2024ft) elevation

Wānaka to Te Anau

7.3 km (4.5 mi), 2.5 hours hiking, +/- 176m (577ft) elevation

Milford Sound

Queenstown

10.6 km (6.5mi), 3 hours hiking, +/- 31m (101ft) elevation

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