Included: An experienced, local hiking and biking guide with extensive knowledge of the area 8-day hiking and biking tour in the Southern Alps Accommodation in hotels and lodges for 7 nights (double occupancy) All meals from lunch on Day 1 through brunch on Day 8 (apart from dinner on Day 5), as listed in the itinerary Daily transportation in a luxury minibus during the adventure E-bike and helmet Emergency First Aid kit Drinking water Safety equipment Maps Add-ons (available to add at checkout): Single occupancy room Walking pole rental Glacier explorer boat trip Not included: Transportation to and from New Zealand Any meals not listed in the itinerary 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?

In order to join this hiking and biking tour in the Southern Alps, you must be reasonably fit and enthusiastic . You can expect 4 to 5 hours of physical activity per day, while at times carrying a backpack of 4-5 kg (8-10 lbs). Some days you’ll hike, some you’ll bike, but these are all manageable distances for people with good fitness. Check out the itinerary to learn about day-by-day distances and elevation gains! Want to see what else is there in the area? Discover more New Zealand hiking tours here or bike tours in New Zealand here !

What do I need to bring?

New Zealand’s weather is very fickle and cold weather can be experienced at any time of the year, especially in the mountains. That’s why it’s recommended to wear lightweight and breathable fabrics while hiking. Merino or polypropylene underwear is great in cold weather and will keep you warm when it gets wet, unlike cotton. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans. Your main luggage travels in the support van. A maximum of 120L per person is allowed per person (1 large suitcase + daypack). Clothing & footwear: Hiking boots or shoes Waterproof raincoat (gore-tex or similar) Warm fleece/wool jersey (not cotton) Thermal underwear (top and bottom, wool or polypropylene) Socks Warm hat or balaclava Long sleeve shirt (for sun protection) Shorts for hiking or lightweight hiking trousers Gloves or mittens (wool or fleece) Spare lightweight shoes or sandals Bike shorts (if you have them) Casual clothing for travel and evenings Rain trousers Swimming costume Towel (lightweight travel towels are great) Sunhat Personal items: Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 25-30L bag) Dry bag for clothes and valuables Walking poles — optional, can be rented with your guides Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity) Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Headlamp or flashlight Sunglasses Camera — optional (but recommended)

What are the rental bikes like?

E-bike rental is included in the trip price. Your e-bike will either be a hard-tail or step through bike, perfect for the trails you’ll be riding. If you’re a strong rider, you’re welcome to request a standard bike if you’d prefer, just let us know when you book.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: For this hiking and biking adventure in the Southern Alps, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 11:1 . It takes a minimum of 4 people for the tour to run. The maximum group size is set at 11 participants. 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. Hiking and biking in the Southern Alps can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. 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 New Zealand hike & bike tour 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. 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.

Getting there and meeting location

Your tour starts in Christchurch, New Zealand . To get there, it’s best to fly into Christchurch International Airport (CHC) , which is 10 km (6 miles) away from downtown. To get to Christchurch, you can take a taxi or a bus. Once you and your guide agree on the details of the itinerary, they will suggest the best place to meet. You will meet your guide and your team at 8 am on Day 1 in Distinction Hotel Christchurch, Cathedral Square.

Safety measures and insurance

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.

Guided hike & bike tour in the Southern Alps

SOUTH ISLAND | NEW ZEALAND

Hike & Bike in New Zealand’s South Island

8 days | Easy to Moderate | 5.00

From $4,168 ()

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Spanning the length of New Zealand’s South Island, the Southern Alps are a mighty backbone rising high above the ocean and hiding more natural peculiarities than you can imagine. With over 3,000 glaciers, volcanic mountains, eternally snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and rolling tussock hills, the highest range in Australasia doesn’t hold back on its endless riches. By joining this guided 8-day hiking and biking adventure, you’re about to witness the best these mountains have to offer! Climb up 2,200 steps of Sealy Tarns, pedal the legendary Alps 2 Ocean trail, or take a breather with a view of New Zealand’s highest peak Aoraki. Warning: this trip will expose you to a profusion of visual splendor, so make sure you make enough room in your photo gallery!

Adventure Highlights

Active adventure & cozy nights: Hike and bike the best of the Southern Alps by day, unwind in your cozy lodges by night
Surreal landscapes: An explosion of colors: ice-carved peaks, tussock slopes, purple-hued lupine flowers, and sky-blue lakes
The mighty Aoraki: Constant views of New Zealand’s highest mountains, including Aoraki at 12,218 ft

Duration

8 days

Season

November through March

Group size

Up to 11 people

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

There’s no better way to explore New Zealand’s highest mountains than on foot and by pedaling. And this guided hiking and biking tour gives you just that—8 days of uncovering the mountains’ gems, including Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park, Lake Tekapo, Alps 2 Ocean and Dunstan Trail, and so much more. Walk through tussock slopes, stroll along sky-blue lakes, feel the fragrant wildflowers, and enjoy panoramic views of highest peaks in Australasia. All meals and transportation are included in the price of the trip, as well as top-notch accommodations in lodges—just kick back and enjoy!

Day 1: Christchurch — Aoraki / Mt. Cook

Church of the Good Shepherd, Lake Tekapo

Meet your team at 8 am in Distinction Hotel Christchurch, Cathedral Square. Departing Christchurch, we travel across the scenic Canterbury Plains into the breathtaking Mackenzie Country. Along the way, we’ll stop at Lake Tekapo to admire its vivid turquoise waters and visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd—perfect for a photo or two. Our journey continues to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, where we’ll stretch our legs on a relaxed walk along the stunning Hooker Valley Track. This rewarding hike offers sweeping views of glaciers on Mt Sefton and The Footstool, as well as the awe-inspiring south face of Aoraki/Mt Cook—the tallest peak in New Zealand.

Meals: Lunch and dinner
Hiking: 10.2 km (6.3 mi), 3 hours hiking
Elevation: +/-270 m (890 ft)
Accommodation: Hermitage Hotel

Day 2: Aoraki / Mt. Cook National Park

Today’s adventure takes us up the legendary 2,200 steps to Sealy Tarns, where we’ll pause to soak in sweeping views of the Hooker and Mueller Glaciers, framed by the ice-carved peaks of Aoraki/Mt Cook. If conditions allow, we’ll continue higher onto the Sealy Range and along the ridge to Mueller Hut. Before descending, we’ll rest and enjoy the incredible reward—breathtaking 360-degree views of glaciers, ice cliffs, and the towering rock faces of New Zealand’s highest mountains.

For those after a different kind of thrill, the afternoon offers the option to join the Glacier Explorers boat tour on Tasman Glacier Lake—a remarkable experience that brings you up close to New Zealand’s longest glacier. If you’d like to add this optional excursion to your tour, please let us know at the time of booking.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 9.2 km (5.7 mi), 6 hours of hiking
Elevation: +/-1,180 m (3,870 ft)
Accommodation: Hermitage Hotel

Day 3: Aoraki / Mt. Cook — Lake Ōhau

Today, we head further south to make the most of the outdoor adventures this region offers. Our first stop is nearby Twizel, where you’ll be fitted with your e-bike for a scenic ride along a section of the renowned Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail. You’ll pedal quiet canal roads, cross the Lake Ōhau weir, and follow a purpose-built track that hugs the shoreline of this stunning glacial lake. With breathtaking views at every turn, there’s plenty of time to stop for photos and take in the turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrop.

We’ll arrive at our Lake Ōhau accommodation by bike, with the afternoon free to relax, stroll to the lake for a swim, or soak in the spa pool. Tonight, we’ll unwind over dinner and enjoy a cozy overnight stay at the welcoming Lake Ōhau Lodge.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 38 km (23.6 mi), 3 hours of cycling
Elevation: +/-70 m (230 ft)
Accommodation: Lake Ōhau Lodge

Day 4: Lake Ōhau — Wānaka

Today we leave the Mackenzie Country behind and make our way into the stunning Central Otago region. Crossing the scenic Lindis Pass, we’re treated to sweeping views of tussock-covered mountains before arriving in Wānaka. From there, we follow the lakeshore road toward the dramatic peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park.

This afternoon, we’ll hike into the lower Matukituki Valley to explore Diamond Lake and ascend Rocky Mountain—a striking glacially carved formation known as a roche moutonnée (or “rock sheep”). From the summit, take in panoramic views over Lake Wānaka and out to the Southern Alps, including the majestic Tititea/Mount Aspiring. With trail options ranging from a gentle loop around the lake to a more challenging climb to the summit, there’s something to suit every energy level. We’ll spend the next two nights in Wānaka, a charming alpine town with a lively lakefront vibe.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 7.2 km (4.5 mi), 3 hours of hiking
Elevation: +/-650 m (2,130 ft)
Accommodation: Oakridge Resort

Day 5: Lake Dunstan cycle trail

Today’s adventure takes us trail cycling on e-bikes through one of Central Otago’s most striking landscapes. We begin in “new” Cromwell, a town reshaped in the 1990s when the original settlement was partially submerged by the creation of Lake Dunstan. From here, we follow the scenic Lake Dunstan Trail around the Kawarau Arm to Bannockburn—a former gold mining hub now famed for its vineyards and world-class pinot noir.

The ride gets even more exciting as we enter the dramatic Cromwell Gorge. The trail hugs rocky bluffs, crosses cantilevered boardwalks suspended over the lake, and traverses a high suspension bridge—making for a cycling experience to remember. Our journey ends in the historic town of Clyde, where restored stone buildings now house boutique shops and cafés. We then return to Wānaka for a second night, full of fresh air and good cheer.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Cycling: 46 km (28 mi), 3-5 hours of cycling
Elevation: +/-580 m (1,900 ft)
Accommodation: Oakridge Resort

Day 6: Kepler Track — Te Anau

Today we travel to the lakeside town of Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Our hike leads us through lush beech forest to the shores of Lake Manapouri—often described as the “loveliest of all lakes.” With its scattered islands, bush-fringed beaches, hidden coves, and dramatic mountain backdrop, it’s easy to see why this place captures the hearts of so many. We’ll take our time on the trail, soaking in the serenity and stopping for photos along the way.

Later, we settle into our accommodation in Te Anau, where we’ll stay for the next two nights. This charming town is a hub for Fiordland activities and a wonderful place to linger if you’re considering extending your adventure.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 9.8 km (6.1 mi), 3 hours of hiking
Elevation: +/-180 m (430 ft)
Accommodation: Distinction Te Anau

Day 7: Routeburn Track — Milford Sound

Today is all about experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Fiordland. We’ll begin with a stop at The Divide for a hike along the renowned Routeburn Track. Climbing to Key Summit, we’re rewarded with sweeping views of snow-capped peaks, alpine tarns, and deep, glacially carved valleys.

From there, we continue to Milford Sound for a two-hour cruise through this iconic fiord, where towering cliffs rise straight from the water. As we glide through its pristine waters, keep watch for dolphins, fur seals, and—if luck’s on our side—the rare Fiordland crested penguin. On the return to Te Anau, we’ll pause at scenic lookouts to soak up the views and reflect on a truly unforgettable day.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 7.2 km (4.5 mi), 3 hours of hiking
Elevation: +/-490 m (1,610 ft)
Accommodation: Distinction Te Anau

Day 8: Queenstown

We bid farewell to Fiordland and make our way to Queenstown for a celebratory final meal—a time to reflect, share stories, and toast the unforgettable journey we’ve shared. After brunch, we’ll provide drop-offs in Queenstown.

Meals: Brunch

Please note: Due to vehicle size and accommodation access, drop-off locations are limited to the Copthorne Hotel Lakefront, Rydges Lakeland Resort, iSite Visitor Centre (central Queenstown), or Queenstown Airport.

Photo gallery

Accommodation & food

Accommodation

This tour features a selection of comfortable hotels and quality lodges, each chosen for their excellent standards and beautiful settings. All accommodations include ensuite bathrooms, and some lodges offer two-bedroom units. Rooms are configured as twin shares or doubles. Solo travelers will be paired in a twin room with another guest of the same gender, unless a single occupancy room is requested at checkout.

Designed for those who appreciate a touch of comfort after a rewarding day on the trail, this trip prioritizes high-standard lodging. While the listed accommodations are planned, equivalent alternatives of similar quality may be used if availability changes.

Food

All meals are included in this tour, from lunch on Day 1 through dinner on Day 7 (excluding dinner on Day 5). Your guides provide healthy and wholesome food, and include a lot of fresh produce. Getting everyone involved is just a part of the trip—there’s a good chance you may find yourself wielding a sharp knife or pushing the tea trolley around at lunchtime. Customized trailes have a fold-down table and cooking area that’s just perfect for preparing picnics. Included dinners are in lodge restaurants or in a local pub.

Special dietary requirements can be accommodated, let us know at booking.

Adventure, packed to go

Hike & Bike in New Zealand’s South Island

Adventure Brochure

Adventure brochure

Download to share and explore full itineraries, key info, FAQs, and guide details.

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Meet your guides

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (4 reviews)

Daniel B

We had a fabulous trip with guides Andre and Katie. So many great hikes and activities covering so many iconic spots throughout the South Island. Small friendly group, well-paced for a range of fitness levels, comfy accommodations. Can’t say enough great things about this trip. Far exceeded our expectations.

nadine_emmenegger

I enjoyed an unforgettable amazing and well organised week. Our guide Grace did a brilliant job in bringing us New Zealand’s nature and practical tipps for this outdoor adventure closer. In a small group of 6 we discovered remote, stunning places which you might not visit on your own, cooked tasty meals and had lots of fun. Recommendable from A to Z!

Arizona P

What a fabulous trek. Well planned trip and the guides were fantastic. I learned so much about New Zealand from the guides. Was more than I ever expected. A beautiful country. I definitley recommend this trip to anyone interested in trekking through NZ.

Show all reviews

Daniel B

nadine_emmenegger

Arizona P

happytramper2018

What an awesome experience, professional and knowledgable guides, great food and the best of company. The scenery was so special and the memory of our time in the South Island of New Zealand will stay with me forever.

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced, local hiking and biking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 8-day hiking and biking tour in the Southern Alps
  - Accommodation in hotels and lodges for 7 nights (double occupancy)
  - All meals from lunch on Day 1 through brunch on Day 8 (apart from dinner on Day 5), as listed in the itinerary
  - Daily transportation in a luxury minibus during the adventure
  - E-bike and helmet
  - Emergency First Aid kit
  - Drinking water
  - Safety equipment
  - Maps
Add-ons (available to add at checkout):
- - Single occupancy room
  - Walking pole rental
  - Glacier explorer boat trip
Not included:
- - Transportation to and from New Zealand
  - Any meals not listed in the itinerary
  - Personal equipment
  - Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above
  - Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout
  - Guide gratuities — optional
In order to join this hiking and biking tour in the Southern Alps, you must be reasonably fit and enthusiastic. You can expect 4 to 5 hours of physical activity per day, while at times carrying a backpack of 4-5 kg (8-10 lbs). Some days you’ll hike, some you’ll bike, but these are all manageable distances for people with good fitness.

Check out the itinerary to learn about day-by-day distances and elevation gains!

Want to see what else is there in the area? Discover more New Zealand hiking tours here or bike tours in New Zealand here!
New Zealand’s weather is very fickle and cold weather can be experienced at any time of the year, especially in the mountains. That’s why it’s recommended to wear lightweight and breathable fabrics while hiking. Merino or polypropylene underwear is great in cold weather and will keep you warm when it gets wet, unlike cotton. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Your main luggage travels in the support van. A maximum of 120L per person is allowed per person (1 large suitcase + daypack).

Clothing & footwear:
- - Hiking boots or shoes
  - Waterproof raincoat (gore-tex or similar)
  - Warm fleece/wool jersey (not cotton)
  - Thermal underwear (top and bottom, wool or polypropylene)
  - Socks
  - Warm hat or balaclava
  - Long sleeve shirt (for sun protection)
  - Shorts for hiking or lightweight hiking trousers
  - Gloves or mittens (wool or fleece)
  - Spare lightweight shoes or sandals
  - Bike shorts (if you have them)
  - Casual clothing for travel and evenings
  - Rain trousers
  - Swimming costume
  - Towel (lightweight travel towels are great)
  - Sunhat
Personal items:
- - Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 25-30L bag)
  - Dry bag for clothes and valuables
  - Walking poles — optional, can be rented with your guides
  - Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  - Headlamp or flashlight
  - Sunglasses
  - Camera — optional (but recommended)
E-bike rental is included in the trip price. Your e-bike will either be a hard-tail or step through bike, perfect for the trails you’ll be riding.

If you’re a strong rider, you’re welcome to request a standard bike if you’d prefer, just let us know when you book.
Group sizes and prices:
- - For this hiking and biking adventure in the Southern Alps, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 11:1.
  - It takes a minimum of 4 people for the tour to run. The maximum group size is set at 11 participants.
  - 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.
Hiking and biking in the Southern Alps can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

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 New Zealand hike & bike tour 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.

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.
Your tour starts in Christchurch, New Zealand. To get there, it’s best to fly into Christchurch International Airport (CHC), which is 10 km (6 miles) away from downtown. To get to Christchurch, you can take a taxi or a bus. Once you and your guide agree on the details of the itinerary, they will suggest the best place to meet.

You will meet your guide and your team at 8 am on Day 1 in Distinction Hotel Christchurch, Cathedral Square.
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.

Have more questions?

Our team is here to answer your questions and plan with you.

Book a call

Book This Adventure for a Private Group

Book a fully private 57hours adventure for your group. We customize dates, group sizes, terrain, guides and accommodations — so your adventure fits your people and your goals.

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