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!
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!
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
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
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
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
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, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 46 km (28 mi), 3-5 hours of cycling
Elevation: +/-580 m (1,900 ft)
Accommodation: Oakridge Resort
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
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: Lunch and dinner
Hiking: 7.2 km (4.5 mi), 3 hours of hiking
Elevation: +/-490 m (1,610 ft)
Accommodation: Distinction Te Anau
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.
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.
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.
I enjoyed an unforgettable amazing and well organised week with Hiking New Zealand. 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!
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 and Hiking New Zealand to anyone interested in trekking through NZ.
Included:
Add-ons (available to add at checkout):
Not included:
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!
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.
Here’s a list of clothing we suggest you bring:
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
Group sizes and prices:
Hiking and biking in the Southern Alps can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements:
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
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.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, we partnered up with Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!
Redpoint tailors their insurance 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.
Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s insurance. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
A 30% deposit to secure your place is due upon booking for booking four (4) months in advance of the departure. The remaining amount is paid 120 days prior to departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies.
Please note that booking fees are non-refundable in all cases and will be deducted from the refund amount.
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.