Included: An experienced, local guide with extensive knowledge of the area 15 days of hiking and exploration of New Zealand’s South Island Most meals, as in the itinerary Accommodation in lodges, cabins, camps, and huts for 14 nights Luxury minibus transportation for the duration of the tour Activities and experiences as in the itinerary Abel Tasman waka experience Cycling tour of the West Coast Wilderness trail Milford Sound cruise Standard rental bike for Day 6 of the itinerary Tents (single tent available, leave us a note at checkout) Pack-liner to keep things dry inside your backpack Kit bag to hold your spare gear Emergency first aid kit Thermarests Plates, cutlery, mugs, pots, etc. Add-ons (available to add at chekout): Single occupancy room when available Equipment rental Milford Sound kayaking Mt. Cook heli-hiking E-bike rental upgrade Not included: Transportation to and from New Zealand Some meals Personal equipment Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

For this adventure, you need to have good fitness and basic mountain biking skills . Prior hiking experience is generally required for this tour, but multi-day hiking experience is not necessary. As for cycling, the trail on Day 6 (the only day you’ll cycle, and it’s also optional) is graded as an easy to intermediate ride. Your average day will involve 4-5 hours of physical activity , with the number of hours decreasing on more laid-back days and increasing to up to 8-9 hours on more challenging days. Altitude gain won’t be greater than circa 800 m (2,600 ft) while the maximum distance covered on any day is 15 km (9.3 mi) . Hikes will involve managing uneven terrain and crossing rivers while carrying a pack weighing up to 12 kilograms (26 pounds) on some days. The group will take breaks on a regular basis to get some rest and eat lunch and snacks. You will also cycle on Day 6. The cycle trail is graded as an easy to intermediate ride . The trail is wide and well maintained, with some short steep sections (you can hop off and walk those sections if you prefer). Check the itinerary for day-by-day distances and elevation changes.

What do I need to bring?

It’s best to bring two bags on your trip, a hiking backpack with an internal frame (minimum 50L) for overnight hikes, and a smaller daypack for day hikes. You are allowed to bring up to 120L of luggage per person , this will be transported in the support van. Several layers of wool, polypropylene and/or polar fleece will ensure you remain a comfortable temperature regardless of the weather. No cotton shirt hiking/kayaking in the wet, please! Cotton gets cold when wet and it’s difficult to dry. Clothing you should bring: Raincoat (gore-tex or similar) Thermal underwear (top and bottom, wool or polypropylene) Hiking boots or good hiking shoes Spare lightweight shoes or sandals Shorts or lightweight trousers (preferably quick-dry) Short-sleeved shirt (quick-dry, polypropylene or wool) Warm fleece/wool jersey (not cotton) Socks Warm hat or balaclava Sun hat Gloves or mittens (wool or fleece) Swimsuit Towel (lightweight travel towels are great) Extra socks and polypropylene layers are always handy—ensure you have enough warm items! Comfortable clothing for non-hiking days as well. Spare clothing can be left in the secure trailer when we are away on the hikes, so don’t worry about the extra weight! Note that there are only limited opportunities to do laundry during a tour, so quick-drying clothing is an advantage. Equipment you should bring: Backpack (minimum 50L) Sleeping bag (minimum 3 season, preferably down, lightweight, between 1-2 kg) Flashlight/headlamp Drink bottle or camelback (1L) Small daypack Sunscreen and sunglasses Insect repellent Personal toiletries, medication, and first aid Walking poles (optional) Gaiters (optional) This is what your guides will provide you with : Pack-liner to keep things dry inside your backpack Kit bag to hold your spare gear when you’re out hiking Emergency first aid kit Thermarests Plates, cutlery, mugs, pots, etc. Tents

How much driving can I expect?

The average driving time per day varies, some times you are in the wilderness and won’t see the vehicle for 2 or 3 days! On other days, you might be in the vehicle for 2-3 hours. The driving time is a chance to rest and enjoy the fantastic scenery . The guide will often stop the vehicle if there is a great photo opportunity or primo ice cream shop! You will travel in a 12-seat minibus towing a custom-built trailer with camp equipment and your luggage. They are also equipped with a range of natural history reference books.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: For this hiking and biking adventure in New Zealand’s South Island, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 11:1 . It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 11 participants. The standard price is based on twin-share rooms. Single occupancy can be arranged at an additional fee for 3 nights only—the rest are spent twin-share, multi-share, or camping (solo travellers will be provided with their own tent). Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Is a single occupancy room available?

The price for this hiking & biking adventure in New Zealand’s South Island is based on twin-share rooms , but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee . You can add it to your booking at checkout. Single room is available on nights 5, 8, and 14 only, as accommodation on all other nights will be twin-share, multi-share, or camping (solo travellers will be provided with their own tent). Solo travelers are welcome —they can either share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee. Single tents are available as well, let us know if you need them at checkout.

Getting there and meeting location

To start this tour, you have to get to Nelson . To get there, most people fly into Christchurch International Airport , New Zealand. From there, you can take a scenic 5-hour bus ride or a local flight to Nelson, where you’ll be meeting your guide. You will meet your guide at 9:00am at the Buss pull-in bay, outside NZ Trade and Enterprise, 2/75 Trafalgar St, Nelson, or, at 9.30am at Nelson Airport.

Safety measures in New Zealand

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout. Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

South Island | New Zealand

Ultimate South Island, NZ: 15-Day Hiking Adventure

15 days | Moderate | 5.00

From $4,313 ()

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This hiking trip is your ticket to an ultimate South Island experience. From high-altitude treks to lakeside strolls, from soaring peaks to rainforests—from awe-inspiring fjords to sandy beaches. But the enchantment extends beyond the trails. Witness iconic sights like Abel Tasman and Milford Sound from sailboats and canoes or the West Coast Wilderness Trail by bike. Designed for the intrepid at heart, the journey offers rugged outdoor experiences with “wild nights” in camps and backcountry huts, balanced by cozy nights in comfortable cabins and lodges. One trip to the South Island is enough to learn why the Kiwis love the outdoors so much.

Adventure Highlights

Beyond the highlights: Enjoy a unique blend of Great Walks, top attractions, and hidden gems
Sudden & astounding landscape shifts: Summit 3,000m peaks one day, unwind on golden sand beaches the next
The best of all worlds: Experience true adventure with some nights in camps and backcountry huts and relax during the nights spent in cozy cabins and lodges

Duration

15 days

Season

November through March

Group size

Up to 11 people

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

Explore a colorful blend of New Zealand’s iconic Great Hikes and lesser-known gems on a 15-day active adventure! Ride, walk, paddle, and sail along the South Island’s greatest natural landmarks, learning about the native Maori culture. Off the trails, unwind with fellow adventure-lovers in cozy campsites, lodges, and panoramic mountain huts.

Day 1: Nelson to Bark Bay

Meet your guides and fellow hikers at 9 am at the Buss pull-in bay, outside NZ Trade and Enterprise, 2/75 Trafalgar St, Nelson, or, at 9.30am at Nelson Airport. We will head out of town to Kaiteriteri, the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park. The guide will advise us on how to pack smart and light as we ready ourselves for the first adventure, a 2-night stay in the park. A boat cruise around the coast takes us to Tonga Quarry, where we’ll enjoy your snack. Follow the Abel Tasman Coast Track south to Bark Bay, where our tents and gear will be waiting for us. We’ll pitch our tents, enjoy a delicious meal, and fall asleep to the sound of waves lapping the shore.

Hiking: 4.3 km (2.7 miles) · 1.5-2 hours
Elevation: +/-300 m (980 ft)
Meals: Lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Bay Bark Camp

Day 2: Bark Bay to Anchorage

We leave Bark Bay after breakfast, hiking through mixed forest and crossing a high suspension bridge above the Falls River. The track descends toward golden beaches and clear waters at Torrent Bay, with optional swims at Cleopatra’s Pool or nearby cascades. Continuing along the coast, we reach Anchorage, where the afternoon is free for swimming, reading, and relaxing before another shared evening meal.

Hiking: up to 12.2 km (7.6 mi) · 4 hours
Elevation: +/-700 m (2,300 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Anchorage Camp (camping)

Day 3: Anchorage to Murchison

Travelers in a traditional Maori Waka in New Zealand.

This morning we explore the coast by waka, learning paddling techniques and Māori customs before heading out on the water. Depending on conditions, we visit coves and Adele Island to observe fur seals and coastal wildlife. We paddle into Kaiteriteri around midday, rejoin our guide, and drive south to a private riverside campsite near Murchison. The day ends with an organic, home-cooked meal overlooking the river confluence.

Hiking/Paddling: 11 km (6.2 mi) · 3 hours paddling
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Private riverside campsite (tents)

*Note: The waka experience requires a minimum of 6 people. With smaller groups, we return to Kaiteriteri via water taxi.

Day 4: Murchison to the Ballroom Overhang

After driving through the Buller Gorge, we stop at Charleston for a short coastal hike among dramatic headlands and wild surf. In Paparoa National Park, we begin our main hike up a limestone river canyon. The first section is easy walking before transitioning to river crossings and boulder hopping. We camp beneath the enormous Ballroom Overhang, a natural limestone shelter, with time to explore a nearby side canyon.

Hiking: 7.4 km (4.6 mi) · 2.5–3 hours
Elevation: +300 m (980 ft) / -220 m (720 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Ballroom Overhang (wild camping)

Day 5: Ballroom Overhang to Hokitika

After a relaxed morning, we hike back out of the canyon and head north to Punakaiki to see the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes. Continuing down the coast, we arrive in Hokitika, once a bustling goldrush town and now known for greenstone carving and seaside charm. The evening is free to explore town, enjoy fish and chips on the beach, or relax at our centrally located hotel.

Hiking: 6.8 km (4.2 mi) · 2.5 hours
Elevation: +200 m (660 ft) / -280 m (920 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Beachfront Hotel (or Stumpers)

Day 6: Hokitika to Arthur’s Pass

Today we cycle the West Coast Wilderness Trail, riding through native forest, across rivers, and past historic gold-mining sites. The ride is unguided but well marked, with support from local partners. We finish in Kumara and celebrate with a drink before driving east across the Southern Alps to Arthur’s Pass village. Tonight we stay in a private alpine hut and prepare dinner together.

Biking: 38.1 km (23.7 mi) · 4 hours
Elevation: +610 m (2,000 ft) / -670 m (2,200 ft)
Meals: Lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Kennedy Lodge

Day 7: Arthur’s Pass to Edwards Hut

Our overnight hike follows the Edwards River into a rugged alpine valley. This is classic backcountry travel, with multiple river crossings and steep, slippery sections requiring hands-on scrambling. The effort is rewarded with dramatic mountain scenery and solitude. Edwards Hut sits just above the bushline, offering sweeping views of the valley. In the evening, listen for the call of the great spotted kiwi.

Hiking: 9.4 km (5.8 mi) · 4–5 hours
Elevation: +640 m (2,100 ft) / -210 m (690 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Edwards Hut (hut or camping)

Day 8: Edwards Hut to Methven

Those keen can explore further up the valley toward Falling Mountain before packing up and hiking back down. After lunch, we drive east as the landscape opens into braided rivers, tussock plains, and limestone formations. Passing Castle Hill and Rakaia Gorge, we arrive in Methven, a welcoming alpine town. The evening is spent relaxing in comfortable accommodation with a hearty meal.

Hiking: 9.4 km (5.8 mi) · 4–5 hours
Elevation: +210 m (690 ft) / -640 m (2,100 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Ski Time Lodge

Day 9: Methven to Aoraki/Mt. Cook

We drive into the stunning Mackenzie Basin, framed by glacial lakes and snow-capped peaks. By late morning we arrive at Aoraki/Mt Cook Village and hike toward Sealy Tarns, with the option to continue higher toward Mueller Hut. The trail offers breathtaking views of valley glaciers, icefalls, and towering moraine walls. We return the same way and spend the evening at a private hut surrounded by the Southern Alps.

Hiking: up to 9.2 km (5.7 mi) · 6 hours
Elevation: +/-1,180 m (3,870 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Wyn Irwin Lodge

Day 10: Aoraki/Mt. Cook to Lake Hawea

After a relaxed breakfast with views of Aoraki/Mt Cook, there are several options today. You may join a guided heli-hike on the Tasman Glacier or hike to the Red Tarns for panoramic alpine views. Alternative walks include the Hooker Valley Track or time to relax in the village. By mid-afternoon, we drive south over Lindis Pass to Lake Hāwea, where we dine out locally.

Hiking: 3.7 km (2.3 mi) · 2 hours
Elevation: +/-380 m (1,250 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: The Camp, Lake Hāwea (cabins)

Day 11: Lake Hawea to the Aspiring Hut

We stop in Wānaka for coffee before driving up the Matukituki Valley to the trailhead. Hiking across open flats, we enjoy constant alpine views and glimpses of Mt Aspiring between the peaks. Reaching Aspiring Hut by early afternoon, there’s an optional steep climb* toward Cascade Saddle for those wanting extra elevation and views. Kea are often seen in this area, adding character to the day.

Hiking: 8.9 km (5.5 mi) · 2.5 hours
Elevation: +200 m (660 ft) / -110 m (360 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Aspiring Hut

*Optional extra hike: 4.9 km (3 miles), 3 hours hiking, elevation +/- 710 m (2,330 ft).

Day 12: Aspiring Hut to Eglinton Valley

We retrace our steps out of the Matukituki Valley, enjoying easy walking and morning light on the peaks. After lunch in Wānaka, we drive over the Crown Range with expansive views of the Wakatipu Basin before continuing south past Te Anau. We camp for two nights in the remote and beautiful Eglinton Valley, with hot showers and a relaxed evening.

Hiking: 8.9 km (5.5 mi) · 2.5 hours
Elevation: +110 m (360 ft) / -200 m (660 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Eglinton Valley Campsite (camping)

Day 13: Eglinton Valley to Milford

We drive into Fiordland National Park, passing hanging valleys and sheer granite cliffs. At Milford Sound, we join a scenic cruise beneath waterfalls and the iconic Mitre Peak, keeping watch for dolphins, seals, and penguins. Later, we hike to Key Summit on the Routeburn Track, enjoying alpine views over the Hollyford Valley. We return to camp for a second peaceful night in the valley.

Hiking: 7.2 km (4.5 mi) · 3 hours
Elevation: +/-490 m (1,610 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Eglinton Valley Campsite (camping)

Day 14: Eglinton Valley to Queenstown

After breakfast, we take a short walk to a nearby waterfall before making our final drive to Queenstown. Arriving early afternoon, the rest of the day is free to explore the town, relax by the lake, or enjoy optional activities. In the evening, we regroup to celebrate the journey and share a final meal together.

Hiking: 2 km (1.2 mi) · 45 minutes
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Heritage Queenstown (or Pinewood Lodge)

Day 15: Queenstown and departure

Your guide departs early this morning, marking the end of the tour. For those staying on in Queenstown you will be spoilt for choice of adventure activities to try. Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand and is surrounded by stunning landscapes with superb hiking and cycling tracks. Don’t hesitate to ask one of our helpful team for tips of great hikes and other activities to do in the area!

Photo gallery

Hiker on a peak of a mountain in New Zealand

Highway at Lindis Pass to Central Otago.

Lodging & food

Cabins, hotels, lodges, camps

Wild nights will be spent in the wilderness, in backcountry huts or camping in locations that may be several hours walk from the nearest road or populated area. On nights in civilization, you may stay in cabins, hotels, lodges or camp by the vehicle at Department of Conservation campsites. Some of these locations may still be relatively remote and in the wilderness but they can be reached by the vehicle. You’ll get to a shower generally every 1-2 days, otherwise there are rivers to swim in and freshwater to wash with. Check out the itinerary to learn about accommodation day-by-day.

You will camp in a range of campsites, mostly containing long drop (pit) toilets. There will be rivers or lakes nearby for a swim, and sometimes even natural hot pools! If the weather is not great for camping, eg very wet, stormy or very cold conditions, your guide will seek out alternative accommodation.

Huts are equipped with mattresses, running water and an outside toilet. Cooking is done on a portable stove. Huts are only accessible on foot and shared with other hikers. On some of the nights, you will stay in lodges, often conveniently located near the start or end of a hike. They usually have multi-share and sometimes twin/double rooms. Finally, some nights may be spent in private cribs (summer house) or cabins at a campground. Staying in the cribs is a real authentic New Zealand experience and you may even start to feel like a kiwi!

Food

Meals are a highlight of the trip—a time to rest, refuel, and unwind together after active days outside. Your guides coordinate everything, with the group pitching in to keep things relaxed and social. Expect hearty, satisfying camp food: barbecues, fresh salads, pancakes, curries, pasta, stir-fries, and simple one-pot meals on more remote nights (including a few well-loved “secret” recipes). There’s always a solid supply of snacks—chocolate, nuts, dried fruit, biscuits—and your guides carry all the cooking equipment needed, from gas burners and frying pans to portable stoves for overnight hikes.

Vegetarian diets and most common food intolerances can be accommodated. If you have specific or restrictive dietary needs, please let us know when booking so your guides can plan accordingly.

Adventure, packed to go

Ultimate South Island, NZ: 15-Day Hiking Adventure

Adventure Brochure

Brochure and video trailer

Download the trip brochure and cinematic trailer—everything you need to plan, share, or start dreaming.

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Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.

5.00

Kath

Originally from Oregon on the west coast of the USA, Kath knew she’d found home almost as soon as she stepped off the plane in New Zealand in her early 20s. These days she lives on a beautiful organic farm in the winterless Far North, shared with six other families, where she grows most of her own food and has the outdoors right on her doorstep. Her love of nature and practical outdoor living has led her from landscaping to running a small tree nursery, and now to guiding—where she brings an infectious enthusiasm for all things Kiwi.

5.00

Daniel

Dan grew up in the rolling farmland of the Pohangina Valley, where muddy boots and wide-open spaces were a way of life. After guiding hikes through Spain and the backcountry of Aotearoa, he now heads up South Island operations—when he's not off on a research mission disguised as a hiking holiday. Dan still has a soft spot for topographic maps and the kind of days that stretch on along wild trails. He relishes the challenge of uncovering new terrain and turning it into unforgettable adventures for others. Whether he’s planting trees on the Chathams or chasing trails in the high country, Dan brings passion, purpose and a good dose of Kiwi ingenuity.

5.00

Jeremy

Growing up near the Southern Alps with hiking parents sparked Jeremy’s lifelong love for the outdoors. He’s been fortunate enough to turn that passion into a career, working as an outdoor instructor and guide around the world for nearly 20 years. These days, he gets to work in his playground—sharing his boundless enthusiasm for adventure, travel and discovery.

5.00

Justin

Justin grew up on a dairy farm in the Manawatū region of the North Island, but wanderlust soon took hold. He worked as a Department of Conservation ranger across the country, with stints of travel in Asia and South America along the way, before guiding became his long-term calling. With a degree in Sustainable Communities and a deep knowledge of New Zealand’s natural and cultural history, Justin is endlessly fascinating to chat with—and loves connecting people to the places that mean so much to him.

5.00

Marios

He may not have the most Kiwi of names, but since arriving in New Zealand over 20 years ago, Marios has never stopped exploring. He’s ventured deep into the far corners of these uplifted islands, sometimes researching walking and historical guides along the way. Through meeting extraordinary locals and uncovering rich layers of history and culture, Marios brings depth, insight and context to the landscapes he shares with guests.

5.00

Adrienne

Adrienne’s adventurous career has seen her wear many hats: mentoring at-risk youth, teaching in classrooms in New Zealand and Australia, packing parachutes, supporting skydiving operations, and carrying out remote conservation work in the Southern Alps and on the Chatham Islands. Growing up in an outdoorsy Nelson family made guiding second nature. With a science degree and a conservationist’s heart, Adrienne is happiest outside—whether sea kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, camping or surfing—and she brings it all together with a big, beaming smile.

5.00

Ali

Ali’s path to guiding has been shaped by extensive experience teaching outdoor skills in New Zealand and overseas. Alongside calm, confident leadership, he has a natural ability to connect with guests and help them get the most from their journey. When he’s not guiding, Ali works as an outdoor instructor, volunteers on a mentoring programme that gives young people access to outdoor experiences, and—together with his partner—fosters rescue dogs.

5.00

Malcolm

Even before he could walk, Malcolm was carried through New Zealand wilderness in a pack on his father’s back. Since those early days, he has hiked, climbed, sea kayaked, a mountain biked throughout the country and the globe. Malcolm squeezed in time to get a degree in physical geography and co-authored a guidebook, Classic New Zealand Adventures. Based in Auckland Malcolm keeps the North Island team singing and itineraries humming.

5.00

Louis

Born and raised on Waiheke Island in the Hauraki Gulf, Louis grew up immersed in the outdoors and Aotearoa’s strong conservation ethos. Homegrown and overseas adventures followed, alongside a degree in International Relations and Sociology and hands-on work across a range of conservation projects. All of this has shaped his passion for connecting people to Aotearoa’s landscapes, species and stories. A natural storyteller, Louis hopes his enthusiasm and anecdotes bring these places vividly to life.

5.00

Oliver

Hailing from Canada, Oli moved to New Zealand after retiring as a professional cyclist. Keen to stay deeply connected to the outdoors, he set off exploring the backcountry and was instantly captivated by the country’s unique flora and fauna, as well as the strong conservation values of the people he met along the way. That passion led him into conservation work, and today he channels his legendary stamina into both conservation projects and guiding.

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (8 reviews)

Lisa S.

|March 2025

New Zealand is amazing! They had the perfect itinerary for me to see very diverse landscapes (beech forests, fiords, sandy beaches, glaciers, & mountains) and stay in a variety of accommodations (huts, tents, mountaineering lodges, and hotels). I appreciated the small group size as well!

Jill T.

|February 2024

New Zealand is a wonder: jagged, snow-covered mountains; rolling hills; broad plains with braided rivers; and beautifully wild coastlines.

Wander739990

Excellent in every way. Luxury accommodation, meals and service with spectacular itinerary and first class guides (two per minibus). Challenging walks and exciting excursions without white knuckle experiences, and there is always an easier option if required. Every day is filled with activities or travelling and suites solos, families and groups of moderate or better walking abilities. Worth every penny, enjoyed every minute.

Show all reviews

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced, local guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 15 days of hiking and exploration of New Zealand’s South Island
  - Most meals, as in the itinerary
  - Accommodation in lodges, cabins, camps, and huts for 14 nights
  - Luxury minibus transportation for the duration of the tour
  - Activities and experiences as in the itinerary
    
    Abel Tasman waka experience
    
    Cycling tour of the West Coast Wilderness trail
    
    Milford Sound cruise
  - Standard rental bike for Day 6 of the itinerary
  - Tents (single tent available, leave us a note at checkout)
  - Pack-liner to keep things dry inside your backpack
  - Kit bag to hold your spare gear
  - Emergency first aid kit
  - Thermarests
  - Plates, cutlery, mugs, pots, etc.
Add-ons (available to add at chekout):
- - Single occupancy room when available
  - Equipment rental
  - Milford Sound kayaking
  - Mt. Cook heli-hiking
  - E-bike rental upgrade
Not included:
- - Transportation to and from New Zealand
  - Some meals
  - Personal equipment
  - Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above
  - Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout
  - Guide gratuities — optional
For this adventure, you need to have good fitness and basic mountain biking skills. Prior hiking experience is generally required for this tour, but multi-day hiking experience is not necessary. As for cycling, the trail on Day 6 (the only day you’ll cycle, and it’s also optional) is graded as an easy to intermediate ride.

Your average day will involve 4-5 hours of physical activity, with the number of hours decreasing on more laid-back days and increasing to up to 8-9 hours on more challenging days. Altitude gain won’t be greater than circa 800 m (2,600 ft) while the maximum distance covered on any day is 15 km (9.3 mi).

Hikes will involve managing uneven terrain and crossing rivers while carrying a pack weighing up to 12 kilograms (26 pounds) on some days. The group will take breaks on a regular basis to get some rest and eat lunch and snacks.

You will also cycle on Day 6. The cycle trail is graded as an easy to intermediate ride. The trail is wide and well maintained, with some short steep sections (you can hop off and walk those sections if you prefer).

Check the itinerary for day-by-day distances and elevation changes.
It’s best to bring two bags on your trip, a hiking backpack with an internal frame (minimum 50L) for overnight hikes, and a smaller daypack for day hikes. You are allowed to bring up to 120L of luggage per person, this will be transported in the support van.

Several layers of wool, polypropylene and/or polar fleece will ensure you remain a comfortable temperature regardless of the weather. No cotton shirt hiking/kayaking in the wet, please! Cotton gets cold when wet and it’s difficult to dry.

Clothing you should bring:
- - Raincoat (gore-tex or similar)
  - Thermal underwear (top and bottom, wool or polypropylene)
  - Hiking boots or good hiking shoes
  - Spare lightweight shoes or sandals
  - Shorts or lightweight trousers (preferably quick-dry)
  - Short-sleeved shirt (quick-dry, polypropylene or wool)
  - Warm fleece/wool jersey (not cotton)
  - Socks
  - Warm hat or balaclava
  - Sun hat
  - Gloves or mittens (wool or fleece)
  - Swimsuit
  - Towel (lightweight travel towels are great)
Extra socks and polypropylene layers are always handy—ensure you have enough warm items! Comfortable clothing for non-hiking days as well. Spare clothing can be left in the secure trailer when we are away on the hikes, so don’t worry about the extra weight! Note that there are only limited opportunities to do laundry during a tour, so quick-drying clothing is an advantage.

Equipment you should bring:
- - Backpack (minimum 50L)
  - Sleeping bag (minimum 3 season, preferably down, lightweight, between 1-2 kg)
  - Flashlight/headlamp
  - Drink bottle or camelback (1L)
  - Small daypack
  - Sunscreen and sunglasses
  - Insect repellent
  - Personal toiletries, medication, and first aid
  - Walking poles (optional)
  - Gaiters (optional)
This is what your guides will provide you with:
- - Pack-liner to keep things dry inside your backpack
  - Kit bag to hold your spare gear when you’re out hiking
  - Emergency first aid kit
  - Thermarests
  - Plates, cutlery, mugs, pots, etc.
  - Tents
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The average driving time per day varies, some times you are in the wilderness and won’t see the vehicle for 2 or 3 days! On other days, you might be in the vehicle for 2-3 hours. The driving time is a chance to rest and enjoy the fantastic scenery. The guide will often stop the vehicle if there is a great photo opportunity or primo ice cream shop!

You will travel in a 12-seat minibus towing a custom-built trailer with camp equipment and your luggage. They are also equipped with a range of natural history reference books.
Group sizes and prices:
- - For this hiking and biking adventure in New Zealand’s South Island, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 11:1.
  - It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 11 participants.
  - The standard price is based on twin-share rooms. Single occupancy can be arranged at an additional fee for 3 nights only—the rest are spent twin-share, multi-share, or camping (solo travellers will be provided with their own tent).
Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The price for this hiking & biking adventure in New Zealand’s South Island is based on twin-share rooms, but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout. Single room is available on nights 5, 8, and 14 only, as accommodation on all other nights will be twin-share, multi-share, or camping (solo travellers will be provided with their own tent).

Solo travelers are welcome—they can either share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee. Single tents are available as well, let us know if you need them at checkout.
To start this tour, you have to get to Nelson. To get there, most people fly into Christchurch International Airport, New Zealand. From there, you can take a scenic 5-hour bus ride or a local flight to Nelson, where you’ll be meeting your guide.

You will meet your guide at 9:00am at the Buss pull-in bay, outside NZ Trade and Enterprise, 2/75 Trafalgar St, Nelson, or, at 9.30am at Nelson Airport.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Deposits

Secure your spot either by paying in full or with a 50% deposit! The remaining 50% of the trip price must be paid 120 days prior to departure, at the latest. If booking within 120 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

Cancellations
- If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  
  If cancelled 120 or more days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  
  If cancelled within 119 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
  
  Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period.

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