We meet at 7 am in downtown Auckland before traveling south to Rotorua, stopping for coffee on the way. Rotorua is known for its geothermal activity, volcanic landscapes, and rich Māori history shaped by the 1886 Mt Tarawera eruption. From Lake Tarawera we take a midday water taxi to access the trail, hiking beside clear lake waters under towering tree ferns and ignimbrite cliffs, with time for a swim and wide views across forest, lakes, and distant volcanoes. Tonight we stay in open-plan log cabins, cook dinner together, and pack our backpacks for the two-day rainforest hike ahead.

Hiking: Up to 10 km (6.2 miles), 3 hours
Elevation: +480 m (+1,575 ft) / -380 m (-1,247 ft)
Meals: Lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park (cabins or camping)

After packing our gear, we drive east into the rugged forest ranges of Te Urewera, the traditional homeland of the Tūhoe people and one of the last regions reached by European settlers. By late morning we reach the Whirinaki Forest trail, a preserved remnant of ancient Gondwana forest. Our hike follows the beautiful Whirinaki River through towering podocarp rainforest up to a forest clearing, where a simple Kiwi-style backcountry hut stands beside the water. Tonight we cook dinner together, with time for an evening fire and chat before easing into the wilderness at your own pace, whether that means sleeping in the hut or camping under the stars.

Hiking: 15 km (9.3 miles), 5 hours
Elevation: +650 m (+2,133 ft) / -430 m (-1,411 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Whirinaki Hut (hut or camping)

This morning we continue a short distance up the main valley before crossing into a neighboring river valley on a rougher, lesser-used stream trail. This is Whirinaki at its wildest, with towering forest and few other visitors. We often spot whiō (blue ducks) and robins, and hear the distinctive call of the kākā (bush parrot), on a route that gives a real taste of New Zealand backcountry hiking. We stop at a small backcountry hut for a relaxed lunch and a memorable splash down a river section before rejoining the valley we started from yesterday, completing the loop. A short drive brings us to a cabin on a nearby rural property, where we unwind with a hot shower and an evening by the fire pit.

Hiking: 16 km (9.9 miles), 7 hours
Elevation: +450 m (+1,476 ft) / -700 m (-2,297 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Whirinaki Adventures cabins

Today is a travel-focused day as we drive onto the Volcanic Plateau. Along the way we explore an extraordinary thermal park, bathe in a natural hot river, and feel the spray of Huka Falls as the Waikato River, New Zealand’s longest, plunges into a stadium-like pool. At Lake Taupō, the largest lake in New Zealand, formed by one of the most powerful volcanic eruptions in recorded history, we enjoy takeaway food on the pumice shore before continuing to Tongariro National Park. We arrive at our lodge near Whakapapa Village in time to relax and prepare for the alpine days ahead.

Hiking: Up to 3 km (1.9 miles), 1.5 hours
Elevation: +/-55 m (180 ft)
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Skotel Alpine Resort (or The Park Hotel)

We swap the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing for its quieter eastern counterpart, the Tongariro Northern Circuit, exploring a side of this volcanic landscape far fewer visitors see (occasionally, we hike the circuit in reverse). After sorting gear for two nights away, we set off in the late morning, climbing gently through open tussock country and crossing the saddle between Ruapehu and Ngāuruhoe. The views grow more dramatic with every step as we move deeper into the heart of the national park. By late afternoon we reach Waihohonu Hut, tucked beside a quiet stream among pockets of mountain beech forest, a peaceful spot to settle in and enjoy the alpine surroundings.

Hiking: Up to 15 km (9.3 miles), 6 hours
Elevation: +/-300 m (984 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Waihohonu Hut (hut or camping)

Today’s shorter distance to Oturere Hut leaves plenty of time to explore. Depending on conditions and the group, we may detour off-trail across ash-moraine ridges and below lava cliffs to a spring or a remote lake viewpoint (an extra 2–4 hours), or visit the clear waters of Ohinepango Springs. Either way, the park’s volcanic scenery is on full display, with its three main peaks, Ruapehu, Tongariro, and Ngāuruhoe (which played Mount Doom in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings films), rising around us. We traverse a stony desert landscape to reach Oturere Hut, perched on the edge of an old lava flow.

Hiking: 8.5 km (5.3 miles), 3 hours
Elevation: +650 m (+2,133 ft) / -350 m (-1,148 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Oturere Hut (hut or camping)

Today we tackle the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the world’s great day hikes. We start by crossing a moon-like valley of lava flows and ash fields before climbing steeply to the Emerald Lakes, a view that’s graced the cover of more than a few guidebooks. From here we join the main Alpine Crossing route, continuing through a dramatic landscape of lava valleys, steaming craters, and brooding volcanoes before our final descent past mineral streams and alpine vegetation. In good conditions, there’s an option to climb higher on the volcanic peaks. A short drive returns us to our lodge in the heart of the national park, the perfect place to relax with a drink and take in the views before dining out in the alpine village.

Hiking: Up to 12 km (7.5 miles), 6 hours
Elevation: +500 m (+1,640 ft) / -800 m (-2,625 ft)
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Skotel Alpine Resort

We drive south, leaving the volcanic plateau behind and descending through the river valleys of the Rangitīkei before following the coast to Wellington. After a café stop, we arrive mid-afternoon. The compact capital is the nation’s stylish hub for arts, culture, cafés, and politics, with many attractions within easy walking distance. The rest of the day is free to explore on foot, visit Te Papa, or simply enjoy the harborside atmosphere.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Bay Plaza, Oriental Parade

Enclosed by hills and a harbor, this compact city has many attractions within easy walking distance. It’s said to have more bars and restaurants per capita than New York, and it feels a bit like San Francisco. Craft the day to suit you: visit the National Museum of New Zealand (Te Papa), watch the political shenanigans at the “Beehive” (Parliament House), take a bus out to the wild south coast with views to the South Island, or visit the Weta Workshop (book in advance to avoid any Orc-ward moments). There’s also the Maritime Museum and Zealandia, a remarkable ecological restoration project almost in the city, plus lovely hilltop and bush walks.

Accommodation: Bay Plaza, Oriental Parade

A shuttle takes us to the airport (this transfer is without a guide) for the short flight across Cook Strait to Nelson, where we meet our South Island guide and those joining the Ultimate South Island tour. Driving around Tasman Bay, we reach Kaiteriteri, the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park, and pack light for two nights in the park. A boat cruise takes us to beautiful Tonga Quarry for a beach snack before we hike the Abel Tasman Coast Track south to Bark Bay, where our tents await. The evening is spent cooking together and falling asleep to the sound of waves.

Hiking: 4.3 km (2.7 miles), 1.5–2 hours
Elevation: +/-300 m (984 ft)
Meals: Lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Bark Bay Camp (camping)

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 the Falls River cascades, and a boulder hop up the valley for those feeling nimble. 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 miles), 4 hours
Elevation: +/-700 m (2,297 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Anchorage Camp (camping)

This morning we explore the coast by waka (Māori canoe), starting with a traditional karakia (blessing) and learning the etiquette of a waka team before heading out on the water. Depending on conditions, we visit coves and Adele Island to observe a breeding colony of New Zealand fur seals, hearing stories of local Māori history along the way. 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 confluence of the Buller and Maruia rivers.

Paddling: 10 km (6.2 miles), 3 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and 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.

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, where your guide will teach you to cross safely by linking arms. We collect firewood along the way and camp beneath the enormous Ballroom Overhang, a natural limestone shelter, with time to explore a nearby side canyon.

Hiking: 7.4 km (4.6 miles), 2.5–3 hours
Elevation: +300 m (+984 ft) / -220 m (-722 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Ballroom Overhang (wild camping)

After a relaxed morning, we hike back out of the canyon and head to Punakaiki to see the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes. Continuing down the coast, we arrive in Hokitika, once a bustling gold rush town and now a great place to buy pounamu (greenstone). We get fitted out with bikes for tomorrow’s ride, and the evening is free to explore town, enjoy fish and chips on the beach, or relax at our centrally located lodge.

Hiking: 6.8 km (4.2 miles), 2.5 hours
Elevation: +200 m (+656 ft) / -280 m (-919 ft)
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Beachfront Hotel (or Stumpers)

After breakfast at one of the town’s cafés, we cycle the West Coast Wilderness Trail from the Arahura River bridge to the historic township of Kumara, riding through native forest, across rivers, and past gold rush–era water races. The ride is unguided but well marked, with a thorough briefing from our local partners. We celebrate with a drink at Kumara’s restored Theatre Royal Hotel before driving east into the Southern Alps to the mountain village of Arthur’s Pass. Tonight we stay in a private hut and prepare dinner together.

Biking: 38.1 km (23.7 miles), 4 hours
Elevation: +610 m (+2,001 ft) / -670 m (-2,198 ft)
Meals: Lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Kennedy Lodge

E-bike upgrades are available for an additional cost.

Our overnight hike follows the Edwards River into a rugged alpine valley. This is classic Kiwi-style backcountry travel, with several river crossings and steep, slippery sections where you’ll use your hands for extra grip. The effort is rewarded with dramatic mountain scenery and solitude. Edwards Hut sits just above the bushline, offering sweeping views up the valley, and we either sleep in the hut or camp, depending on how many other hikers are there. In the evening, listen for the call of the great spotted kiwi. Most departures have two guides for this hike.

Hiking: 9.4 km (5.8 miles), 4–5 hours
Elevation: +640 m (+2,100 ft) / -210 m (-689 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Edwards Hut (hut or camping)

Those keen can join an optional morning hike further up the valley toward Falling Mountain before we pack up and hike back out, with lunch along the way. Heading east, the landscape opens into braided rivers, tussock grassland, and the surreal limestone formations of Castle Hill. Following an inland route past Lake Lyndon and through the Rakaia Gorge, we arrive in Methven, where the evening is free to relax.

Hiking: 9.4 km (5.8 miles), 4–5 hours
Elevation: +210 m (+689 ft) / -640 m (-2,100 ft)
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Ski Time Lodge

We drive into the stunning Mackenzie Basin, framed by huge glacial lakes and snow-capped peaks. By late morning we arrive at Aoraki/Mount Cook Village and hike with daypacks toward Sealy Tarns, with the option to continue as far as Mueller Hut. The trail offers breathtaking views of valley glaciers, icefalls, and towering moraine walls, with the distant rumble of avalanches. We return the same way and spend the evening at a private hut in the heart of the Southern Alps, where, with luck, we’ll watch the summit of Aoraki/Mount Cook turn pink with the sun’s last rays.

Hiking: Up to 9.2 km (5.7 miles), 6 hours
Elevation: +/-1,180 m (3,871 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Wyn Irwin Lodge

After a relaxed breakfast with views of Aoraki/Mount Cook, there are several options today. You may join a local operator for a guided heli-hike on the Tasman Glacier (optional, at an extra cost) or hike with your guide up the steep slopes of Sebastopol to the Red Tarns for panoramic alpine views. Alternatively, stride out on your own along the Hooker Valley Track, take a walk on the valley floor, or visit the information center. By mid-afternoon, we drive south over Lindis Pass to Lake Hāwea, where we take the night off cooking and dine at a local restaurant.

Hiking: 3.7 km (2.3 miles), 2 hours (optional Hooker Valley Track: 10.2 km (6.3 miles), 3 hours)
Elevation: +/-380 m (1,247 ft) (optional Hooker Valley Track: +/-270 m (886 ft))
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: The Camp, Lake Hāwea (cabins)

We stop in Wānaka for coffee before driving up the Matukituki Valley to the road end. Shouldering overnight packs, we hike across open flats with constant alpine views and glimpses of the Matterhorn-like Mt Aspiring (3,033 m). After reaching Aspiring Hut, there’s an optional steep climb* through beech forest toward Cascade Saddle for uninterrupted views of the upper Matukituki and the Southern Alps. Cheeky kea (alpine parrots) are often seen here, so keep an eye on your shiny zips.

Hiking: 8.9 km (5.5 miles), 2.5 hours
Elevation: +200 m (+656 ft) / -110 m (-361 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Aspiring Hut

*Optional extra hike: 4.9 km (3 miles), 3 hours, +/-710 m (2,329 ft)

We retrace our steps out of the Matukituki Valley, enjoying easy walking and morning light on the peaks. After a lakeside picnic lunch in Wānaka, with time for a swim, 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 beautiful Eglinton Valley, with welcome hot showers and a relaxed evening.

Hiking: 8.9 km (5.5 miles), 2.5 hours
Elevation: +110 m (+361 ft) / -200 m (-656 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Eglinton Valley Campsite (camping)

We drive into Fiordland National Park, passing hanging valleys and sheer granite cliffs. At Milford Sound, we join a two-hour cruise out to Anita Bay and the entrance of the sound, passing cascading waterfalls and the iconic Mitre Peak while watching for dolphins, fur seals, and Fiordland crested penguins. Later, we hike to Key Summit on the Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, enjoying alpine views over the Hollyford Valley to the Darran Mountains. We return to camp for a second peaceful night in the valley.

Hiking: 7.2 km (4.5 miles), 3 hours
Elevation: +/-490 m (1,608 ft)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Eglinton Valley Campsite (camping)
Optional: Milford Sound sea kayaking instead of the cruise (you can add it to your booking at checkout)

After breakfast, we take a short walk to a beautiful waterfall near our campsite, where you can soak up one last bit of Fiordland by jumping under for a shower. We then make our final drive to Queenstown, arriving in the early afternoon. The rest of the day is free to explore the town, relax by the lake, or enjoy optional activities. In the early evening, we meet up and head out to celebrate the great hikes and adventures we’ve shared.

Hiking: 2 km (1.2 miles), 45 minutes
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel Lakefront

The tour concludes this morning as your guide departs. For those staying on, Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital, offers endless options for adventure activities, hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying the lakeside setting. Our team is happy to suggest great hikes in the area to help you make the most of your remaining time.