What you get on this adventure: An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area 10 days of hiking and exploration Accommodation in quality hotels and lodges (based on double occupancy – single rooms available for an additional surcharge) All activities outlined in itinerary Abel Tasman boat cruise, Natural Flames, Glacier boat trip and Milford Sound cruise Meals as indicated in the itinerary What’s not included: Breakfast and lunch on day 1 Dinner on day 2 and day 4 Accommodation before and after the tour Travel and health/emergency insurance

How fit do I need to be?

This is a beginner-friendly tour of New Zealand’s South Island — no prior hiking experience is necessary! Keep in mind that you should still be reasonably fit as you’ll be hiking 4 to 5 hours per day, 10 days in a row. The most you’ll hike on some days is 6 miles (10 km) with altitude gains of up to 600 m (2,000 ft) on harder days. There are options along the trip when you can choose more energetic or more restful days. Keep in mind that you’ll also be carrying your daypack weighing 4-5 kg (8-10 lbs). We suggest going on half-day hikes or other aerobic activities in weeks prior to the trip.

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 25-40L bag) Hiking poles — optional Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity) Lightweight hiking boots or shoes Spare clothes for layering Waterproof rain jacket Warm fleece/ wool jersey Thermal underwear Warm hat or balaclava Long-sleeve shirt Shorts Gloves Casual clothing for travel and evenings Dry bag for clothes Spare lightweight shoes or sandals Swimming costume Towel Rain trousers Sunhat Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Headlamp or flashlight Sunglasses Camera — optional (but recommended) Bring comfortable clothes that you can move in and that is appropriate for the weather. November through March is summer in New Zealand’s South Island, offering generally pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). This period enjoys longer daylight hours and is ideal for outdoor activities. However, weather conditions and occasional showers are not uncommon. B e prepared for sun, wind, and the possibility of sudden changes, especially in alpine areas. Overall, it’s a fantastic time for hiking and exploring the stunning landscapes of the South Island.

What are the accommodation and meals like?

During the South Island guided hiking trip, you’ll experience a high standard of accommodation in carefully chosen hotels and quality lodges known for their excellent standards and stunning locations. All rooms come with ensuite bathrooms, and some lodges offer units with two bedrooms per unit. Accommodation is typically twin share or doubles, and solo travelers will share a room with a fellow traveler of the same gender unless a single supplement is requested. Please note that advertised accommodation may vary based on availability, ensuring you enjoy an equivalent high standard throughout your journey. Most of your meals are included during the adventure. However, you’ll have the flexibility to explore local restaurants at your leisure on two evenings. Breakfasts are typically continental-style, though not always, in the lodges and hotels. If you prefer to venture out in the morning, there are numerous local cafes to explore. Lunch is often served “on the run” in picturesque picnic areas or along trails. Guides set out lunch food, which includes healthy and fresh options. There’s a chance you might join in the preparations at times. Dinners are frequently enjoyed in lodge restaurants, with menus ranging from set options to à la carte. Occasionally, you might experience dining in unique settings beyond the typical town restaurant.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: For this adventure, the usual client to guide ratio is 13:1. The cost does not decrease as the group grows. In case you would like to ensure a room to yourself, and not share it with anybody, there is a possibility of a single supplement for an additional $1,050. Deluxe hiking on the South Island can be arranged for larger and for private 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.

Getting there and meeting location

The beginning of this tour is in Nelson. To get there, most people fly into Christchurch International Airport , which is located on the South Island. From there, Nelson is a scenic 5-hour drive away. There’s also a possibility of flying from Christchurch to Nelson. You’ll meet your South Island hiking guide and the rest of the group in the Tides Hotel, Nelson at 4 pm on Day 1 of your tour.

Safety measures in New Zealand

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. With medical insurance, if you have an accident or medical emergency on or off the mountain, you’ll avoid paying out of pocket for costly expenses. This covers everything from hospital treatments to emergency air transportation and more. Travel insurance covers canceled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans. We also expect you to respect local regulations and take measures to protect yourselves, your guides, and the communities you’re traveling to. Find more information on the U.S. Department of State’s Travel Information page on New Zealand . If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!

The Milford Sound fjord in Fiordland National Park.

Maori appreciated the area known as Castle Hill or Kura Tawhiti.

Hikers walking over a suspension bridge on the South Island of New Zealand

South Island | New Zealand

Deluxe Hiking Tour of New Zealand’s South Island

5.00 ()

Season

January through March

Nearest city

Your tour begins in Nelson, NZ

Duration

10 days

Accommodation

Quality hotels and lodges

Difficulty

Guides

Daniel Murphy, Malcolm O’Neill, Hiking New Zealand

From $4,730 () / 10 days

Got any questions? or Talk with us

Overview
Itinerary
Brochure
Guides
Reviews
Things to know

New Zealand’s South Island: where each dawn unveils a new dimension. One moment, you’re whipping up pancakes beside eternal flames; the next, you inhale the ocean breeze amid water cascading through limestone blowholes. You’ll find yourself encircled by the ice-crowned peaks of the Southern Alps one day and sail through cerulean waters the next. And we haven’t even mentioned the fjord Rudyard Kipling once deemed the eighth Wonder of the World… But why enumerate its countless wonders when you can explore them? Embark on a hiking journey meticulously crafted for those who appreciate comfort and a touch of luxury after each day’s adventure. Traverse time and space on one of the world’s most unique islands – it’s a portrait of captivating contrasts waiting for you.

Book a call

Astounding landscape shifts

Watch the terrain switch from tropical to glacial in a heartbeat
Haven for wildlife lovers

Discover South Island’s rich biodiversity—spot dolphins, seals and penguins
Tailored for comfort-seekers

Unwind in deluxe accommodations after a day spent in the wilderness

Itinerary

With its wide variety of natural phenomena and hiking trails, it might be too overwhelming to organize your days by yourself. You don’t have to worry about that on this trip—your expert guides will give you the best possible hiking adventure of the South Island in New Zealand. Embarking from Nelson City, set out on a 10-day hiking tour through the island’s finest natural attractions. Every day in your itinerary brings something new and unique, be it cruising on glacial lakes or traversing rainforest canyons. Accompanied with great food to fuel you for adventures and ensuite rooms in quality hotels and lodges to recharge your batteries, this hiking tour will provide you with the greatest scenic views of the island.

Meet your expert guide and your fellow hikers in the Rutherford Hotel foyer at 4 pm. You can either do a guided hike up Botanical Hill, also known as the “Center of New Zealand” to enjoy sweeping views of Tasman Bay and Nelson City, or you can independently explore this lively town—you’ll get the best recommendations for go-to places from your guides. Celebrate the start of the South Island tour by dining together in one of Nelson’s best restaurants.

Accommodation: Tides Hotel, Nelson
Meals: Dinner
Hiking: 1 hour, 1.5 miles/ 2.5 km
Spend your day exploring the Abel Tasman National Park. At the beach resort of Kaiteriteri, board a water taxi and cruise the coastline past golden sand beaches, rugged granite headlands and bush clad islands. Step ashore at Bay Bark and hike the famed Abel Tasman Coast Track, tread native forests and walk along cascading streams. Following the well-formed path, you’ll reach Torrent Bay, where you can jump into the crystal clear waters of Cleopatra’s Pool. Journey back to Kaiteriteri before heading back to Nelson. Here’s your chance to further explore this vibrant and artsy little town.

Accommodation: Tides Hotel, Nelson
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Hiking: 4 hours, 7.5 miles/ 12 km
As you make your way to the West Coast, you’ll stop for a hike at century-long burning natural flames. Access this unique phenomena with a local guide through a deer farm and relish a cup of billy tea and pancakes prepared over the flames. Continue your journey alongside the mighty Buller River as it cuts its way through the massive wilderness. You’ll arrive at Punakaiki, where you’ll catch the sunset and visit a local pub for dinner. Take an evening stroll around the famous Pancake Rocks, a heavily eroded limestone area where the sea bursts through several vertical blowholes. You’ll return to this area the following day if your expert guide sees that there’s a bigger chance for high tide.

Accommodation: Ocean View Retreat, Punakaiki
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Hiking: 3 hours, 5 miles/ 8 km
Built in 1867, hike the Inland Pack Track which was once used by prospectors and miners to avoid coastal cliffs. The track today forms part of the Paparoa Track, which leads you through deep limestone canyons and towering rainforest of tropical nikau palms. There are plenty of lakes along the way, so feel free to jump in and cool off! After that, you’ll travel on a highway which offers views of lush green rainforests, glaciated Southern Alps and tussock grasslands. East of Arthur’s Pass, stop for a stroll around the limestone outcrops of Kura Tawhiti, a once important meeting place for Maori people which was named the “Spiritual Center of the Universe” by the Dalai Lama. To end your day, you’ll follow the back roads around Lake Lyndon and reach Methven, a ski town by winter with a spectacular backdrop of the Southern Alps.

Accommodation: Ski Time, Methven
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Hiking: 3 hours, 6 miles/ 10 km
Continuing south, pass along the extensive Canterbury Plains and go into the intermontane Mackenzie Basin to Lake Tekapo, famous for its vibrant turquoise waters and a small church perched by the lake. Have a picnic lunch with the broad views of the Mackenzie Region in the rain shadow of the Southern Alps—braided riverbeds, glacial lakes and golden grasslands extend to distant mountains. On arrival at Mount Cook village, hike in Governors Bush and on up to Red Tarns for elevated views of Aoraki/ Mt Cook. Take in the panoramas before wandering back down to your accommodation.

Accommodation: Lodge within Aoraki/ Mount Cook National Park
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Hiking: 3 hours, 3 miles/ 5 km
Hike up the Sealy Tarns Track and enjoy the views of Mt Sefton, Mueller Glacier and up the Hooker Valley to Aoraki/ Mt Cook. If you’re feeling energetic, join your guide for a climb above the tarns to the crest of Mueller Ridge for even wider views of the alpine landscape. If you prefer to take it easy, you can explore the valley floor independently, take the walk up the Hooker Valley for views of the Mueller and Hooker Glacier terminal lakes or learn more about the national park in the visitor center.

Accommodation: Lodge within Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Hiking: 4 hours, 6 miles/ 10 km
Travel up the Tasman Valley towards the country’s longest glacier, the Tasman Glacier. Take a walk through glacial moraine and board a boat for a unique spin around the terminal lake, which is increasing in size every year due to the glacier’s retreat. This dynamic environment is dotted with icebergs of all shapes and sizes. Continue your day with climbing over the tussock lands of the Lindis Pass into the southern lakes district of Central Otago. You can sample the wine and learn about the sustainable winemaking practiced at an award winning vineyard, or enjoy a walk among the vines. Final stop of the day is Wanaka, a lovely lake-side holiday town.

Accommodation: Oakridge Resort, Wanaka
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Hiking: 1 hour, 2 miles/ 3 km
Drive alongside Lake Wanaka and reach the peaks of Aspiring National Park. Hike in the Matukituki Valley on the Diamond Lake walk and on up Rocky Mountain, a distinctive glacially sculpted rock sheep for spectacular views over the lake, and to the Southern Alps and Mt Aspiring/ Tititea. After the hike, drive over the Crown Range into the Wakatipu Basin and the scenic wine growing area of Gibbston Valley, pressed between schist mountains and the rocky Kawerau Gorge. Sample fine wine, craft beer and locally sourced food over lunch before you journey on toward the Fiordland wilderness and lake Te Anau.

Accommodation: Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Hiking: 3 hours, 4 miles/ 7 km
Described by Rudyard Kipling as one of the wonders of the world, the fjord of Milford Sound and the Fiordland mountains offer views and tranquility like no other place. You’ll stop at The Divide to walk a section of the Routeburn Track to Key Summit for panoramic views of the Humboldt and Darran Mountains. Easier short walks, and the preferred option if clouds rob Key Summit of views, are located below in the Hollyford Valley. Continue on to Milford Sound and cruise between glaciated mountains under sheer cliffs which plummet hundreds of meters into deep dark waters. Enjoy views of mile-high Mitre Peak and Lady Bowen Falls as you keep an eye out for marine wildlife. You may spot dusky dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, and, if you’re lucky, the rare Fiordland crested penguin. Return to Te Anau in the afternoon.

Accommodation: Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Hiking: 3 hours, 4 miles/ 7 km
On your last day, hike part of the famed Kepler Track onto the shores of Lake Manapouri, where you’ll find an abundance of small islands, bush fringed beaches, and mountain backdrop. Travel back up northwards where your South Island hiking tour ends in the lively scene of Queenstown. Queenstown is a town with many adventure activities to pick from—a jet boat ride, highest bungee jumping in New Zealand or a paddle down a river on a funyak. If you’re planning on prolonging your stay, you can also do one of New Zealand’s famous Great Walks. Go on a guided hike to Hollyford Track in the heart of Fiordland NP or journey back to Milford Sound which can be explored by boat. Whatever your preference, your expert guides can help you with any post-trip activities that you might like to add on to your New Zealand adventure!

Hiking: 3 hours, 6 miles/ 10 km

Get free trip brochure

Download Deluxe Hiking Tour of New Zealand’s South Island Brochure

Brochure sent, check your inbox

Talk with us and let one of our adventure experts help you plan your perfect adventure.

Meet your guides

5.00

Daniel Murphy

Daniel is the co-owner and South Island Operations Manager of Hiking New Zealand. He started out as a hiking guide in Spain in the 90s, and later on he became a backcountry guide in New Zealand. Daniel has the enviable job of tour research and development, so he’s always on the go. Other than hiking, he loves spending his time mountain running and biking.

5.00

Malcolm O’Neill

Malcolm is the co-owner and North Island Operations Manager of Hiking New Zealand. Even before he could walk, he 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

Hiking New Zealand

Hiking New Zealand is a small, but very dedicated team specializing in matching adventurous travelers with their dream holidays, both in New Zealand and beyond. They are passionate about active travel, wild places, and their conservation, and extremely enthusiastic about sharing their wilderness discoveries with their guests.

5.00 (5 reviews)

Ronald Schwartzman

Fantastic guides. Perfect itinerary. Accommodated each individual traveller. Could not have been better!

Celia B

Recently back from the Southern Slice trip – it really WAS a Wonderful Trip! The walks which had been chosen really were iconic walks showcasing what the South Island has to offer. John was a great guide and driver, the distances we travelled each day were relaxing, safe, enjoyable. Eva looked after us non stop, I don’t know how she did it! She not only guided us in a very professional way but shopped for us, prepared our lunch, and provided us with a constant supply of snacks! The whole trip was really well organised and well thought out, many thanks to Eva, John and Hiking New Zealand for a FAB experience, would recommend it to anybody!

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.

jlo2100

What a fabulous trip! Very educational! A great way to see and learn about the southern portion of New Zealand. Mel was the best guide I could have hoped for. She was incredibly knowledgeable, capable & interesting. We had a great group of trekkers. Weather was perfect. Overall, not as difficult of hiking as I thought it might be.
An excellent value for the cost of the trip.

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.

Things to know

What you get on this adventure:
- - An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 10 days of hiking and exploration
  - Accommodation in quality hotels and lodges (based on double occupancy – single rooms available for an additional surcharge)
  - All activities outlined in itinerary
  - Abel Tasman boat cruise, Natural Flames, Glacier boat trip and Milford Sound cruise
  - Meals as indicated in the itinerary
What’s not included:
- - Breakfast and lunch on day 1
  - Dinner on day 2 and day 4
  - Accommodation before and after the tour
  - Travel and health/emergency insurance
This is a beginner-friendly tour of New Zealand’s South Island — no prior hiking experience is necessary! Keep in mind that you should still be reasonably fit as you’ll be hiking 4 to 5 hours per day, 10 days in a row. The most you’ll hike on some days is 6 miles (10 km) with altitude gains of up to 600 m (2,000 ft) on harder days.

There are options along the trip when you can choose more energetic or more restful days. Keep in mind that you’ll also be carrying your daypack weighing 4-5 kg (8-10 lbs). We suggest going on half-day hikes or other aerobic activities in weeks prior to the trip.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
- - Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 25-40L bag)
  - Hiking poles — optional
  - Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
  - Lightweight hiking boots or shoes
  - Spare clothes for layering
  - Waterproof rain jacket
  - Warm fleece/ wool jersey
  - Thermal underwear
  - Warm hat or balaclava
  - Long-sleeve shirt
  - Shorts
  - Gloves
  - Casual clothing for travel and evenings
  - Dry bag for clothes
  - Spare lightweight shoes or sandals
  - Swimming costume
  - Towel
  - Rain trousers
  - Sunhat
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  - Headlamp or flashlight
  - Sunglasses
  - Camera — optional (but recommended)
Bring comfortable clothes that you can move in and that is appropriate for the weather. November through March is summer in New Zealand’s South Island, offering generally pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). This period enjoys longer daylight hours and is ideal for outdoor activities. However, weather conditions and occasional showers are not uncommon. B

e prepared for sun, wind, and the possibility of sudden changes, especially in alpine areas. Overall, it’s a fantastic time for hiking and exploring the stunning landscapes of the South Island.
During the South Island guided hiking trip, you’ll experience a high standard of accommodation in carefully chosen hotels and quality lodges known for their excellent standards and stunning locations. All rooms come with ensuite bathrooms, and some lodges offer units with two bedrooms per unit. Accommodation is typically twin share or doubles, and solo travelers will share a room with a fellow traveler of the same gender unless a single supplement is requested. Please note that advertised accommodation may vary based on availability, ensuring you enjoy an equivalent high standard throughout your journey.

Most of your meals are included during the adventure. However, you’ll have the flexibility to explore local restaurants at your leisure on two evenings. Breakfasts are typically continental-style, though not always, in the lodges and hotels. If you prefer to venture out in the morning, there are numerous local cafes to explore.

Lunch is often served “on the run” in picturesque picnic areas or along trails. Guides set out lunch food, which includes healthy and fresh options. There’s a chance you might join in the preparations at times.

Dinners are frequently enjoyed in lodge restaurants, with menus ranging from set options to à la carte. Occasionally, you might experience dining in unique settings beyond the typical town restaurant.
Group sizes and prices:
- For this adventure, the usual client to guide ratio is 13:1.
- The cost does not decrease as the group grows.
- In case you would like to ensure a room to yourself, and not share it with anybody, there is a possibility of a single supplement for an additional $1,050.
Deluxe hiking on the South Island can be arranged for larger and for private 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 beginning of this tour is in Nelson. To get there, most people fly into Christchurch International Airport, which is located on the South Island. From there, Nelson is a scenic 5-hour drive away. There’s also a possibility of flying from Christchurch to Nelson.

You’ll meet your South Island hiking guide and the rest of the group in the Tides Hotel, Nelson at 4 pm on Day 1 of your tour.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. With medical insurance, if you have an accident or medical emergency on or off the mountain, you’ll avoid paying out of pocket for costly expenses. This covers everything from hospital treatments to emergency air transportation and more.

Travel insurance covers canceled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans.

We also expect you to respect local regulations and take measures to protect yourselves, your guides, and the communities you’re traveling to. Find more information on the U.S. Department of State’s Travel Information page on New Zealand.

If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!
A 25% deposit to secure your place is due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid 95 days prior to departure. For bookings within four (4) months of the departure, full payment is required.

Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies.
- If Client cancels the Booking anytime prior to ninety-five (95) days before the departure, Client gets an 80% refund of the deposit back.
- If Client cancels the Booking ninety-four (94)to twenty-one (21) calendar days in advance of the trip contemplated by the booking, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of eighty percent (80%) of the total amount paid when Booking.
- For cancellations twenty (20) to eleven (11) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of fifty percent (50%) of the total amount paid when Booking.
- After that deadline, Client is not entitled to any refund. Any reimbursable expenses arising out of the Booking incurred by Guide prior to the date of cancellation (including but not limited to plane tickets, car rental payments, and lodging or transportation fees) are non-refundable as soon as they are incurred by the Guide.
Secure your spot for the following season with a 10% deposit! This tour gets sold out very quickly, but with early-bird booking, you’ll be the first one to know. Pick the month that suits you best and we’ll let you know once the dates are live—don’t risk missing out on your bucket list adventure!
- Only 10% of the total amount should be paid as a deposit upon booking. This deposit is non-refundable, but can be transferred to another 57hours adventure anytime in case the dates don’t suit you.
- Once the set dates for the following season are live, you can confirm your booking by the end of this year by paying another 25% of the total amount.
- The final balance is due 3 months (95 days) prior to departure.
- Once the trip has been confirmed, the regular cancellation policy applies.
Secure your spot for 2025 with a 10% deposit! This tour gets sold out very quickly, but with early-bird booking, you can rest assured you’ve booked your dream adventure in time.
- Only 10% of the total amount should be paid as a deposit upon booking. This deposit is non-refundable, but can be transferred to another 57hours adventure anytime in case the dates don’t suit you. This can be done by the end of the year.
- Another 20% needs to be paid by the end of this year.
- The remaining balance is due 95 days prior to departure.