Part of the First Light Travel Group
South Pacific Specialists
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This trip has been designed for very active people, you may have hiked the Dolomites or the Inca Trail previously and appreciate a good challenge. This trip has more than enough to keep you physically and mentally challenged, throw in a mixture of remote back-country cabins mixed with 5-star boutique. After a busy days exploring you'll be pleasantly surprised by the fine dining available, New Zealand has some of the best produce available in the world. Season: Late November to April
Duration: 10 Days
Starts: Christchurch
Finishes: Queenstown
Christchurch is our "Garden City," blessed with beautiful parks and gardens right in the heart of town.
After welcoming you at the airport and transferring you to your hotel, we will leave you to unwind: we have taken care of everything.
After checking in, why not step back to Edwardian times with a relaxing Private Punting Trip down the Avon River? It’s a wonderful introduction to the “Garden City”. Gliding gently along the river in a flat-bottomed boat, you will take in Christchurch’s ‘must-see’ historic buildings and Botanic Gardens away from the hustle and bustle of the city streets.
1 night at The George
Located in the scenic `high country' The Mackenzie Basin is a Dark Sky Reserve and home to the most beautiful lake in New Zealand.
Today your driver will collect you and after driving through the Canterbury Plains, you’ll reach the majestic and peaceful setting of Lake Tekapo amid the high-country splendour of the Mackenzie Basin.
Lake Tekapo. This vast picturesque body of water is regarded by locals as being one of the most beautiful places to visit in the South Island, The color of the lake’s water truly sets it apart from other lakes. It’s a beautiful turquoise blue is a product of the surrounding glaciers.
Tekapo lies in a Dark Sky Reserve, offering unrivaled opportunities for stargazing.
1 night at Peppers Bluewater Resort
Approximate Distance: 330km / 139mi
Total Driving Time: 2 hours 50 mins
A challenging and spectacular 3 day adventure in the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park
Day 1: A 6-8 hours trekking, 5.5km (3.4 mi) Distance with a 1200m (3937 ft) ascent.
Drive to Mount Cook (about 1 hour), transfer to 4WD vehicle and drive as far as possible up the old Ball Hut Road, parallel to the Tasman Glacier. The effects of glacial recession are very evident as we hike beside the lateral moraine. Climb up onto Ball Ridge and along to Caroline Hut at 1800m/6000ft, perched right opposite the awe-inspiring Caroline Face of Aoraki Mount Cook. The panorama includes Aoraki Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, all the mountains adjoining the Tasman Glacier, and Lake Pukaki.
Your guide will choose one of two routes (Waterfall direct or Cove Stream) depending on conditions and weather. If snow conditions are firm below Caroline Hut, you are likely to be introduced to crampons and ice axe.
In addition to our personal clothing, the crampons, ice-axe, helmet and harness, we will be carrying some fresh items of food (e.g. bread, fruit, vegetables, meat). The hut is stocked with nonperishable food, mattresses, pillows, sleeping bags, cooking and eating utensils, gas and firewood.
2 nights at Caroline Hut Mt Cook
Approximate Distance: 100km / 64mi
Total Driving Time: 1 Hour
Trek to Beautiful Kaitiaki Peak - Practice basic mountaineering techniques, using crampons and ice-axe on the way.
Day 2: A 6-8 hours return from Caroline Hut.
Kaitiaki Peak (2222m/7290ft) south of Ball Pass and take in the dramatic views of the South Ridge of Aoraki Mt Cook. Maybe explore a crevasse on the Ball Glacier. Back at Caroline Hut take time to watch the sun set on Mt Tasman and the ice avalanches thunder down the Caroline Face.
Return dasent to Mount Cook Village
Day 3: A 5-7 hours trekking, 5.5km (3.4 mi) distance, 300m (984 ft) ascent.
Return to Mount Cook Village via the Tasman Valley (Cove Stream, Waterfall direct or Ball Ridge routes). Depending on conditions and group ability, the guide may opt to take you back via a different route to your ascent. The descent routes allow good views out over the ever-expanding terminal lake of the Tasman Glacier.
Your driver will transfer you 1 hour to Mt Cook.
1 night at The Hermitage
Approximate Distance: 100km / 64mi
Total Driving Time: 1 hour
This spectacular drive takes you from the heart of Mount Cook National Park to the lakeside town of Wanaka.
From brilliant turquoise canals, lakes and alpine meadows travel into beautiful remote farmland — this road offers huge scenic contrasts and some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. You’ll travel through the Mackenzie Basin, over the Lindis Pass before passing through the small towns of Omarama and Twizel. Continue to the quaint farming town of Tarras. Known for its merino wool, high country sheep stations and vineyards, we recommend stopping at coffee shop on your way through. A short distance later arrive at the beautiful lakeside town of Wanaka.
2 Night at Tin Tub Luxury Lodge
Approximate Distance: 205km | 127 miles
Total Driving Time: 2 hour 17 mins
World class canyoning in the gorgeous Matukituki Valley
Ready for a fantastic adrenaline rush? The Niger Stream is a world class canyon, located in the gorgeous Matukituki Valley, gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park. Be prepared for a day of high excitement and heaps of fun in a unique and fabulous natural setting. You will be abseiling and sliding down waterfalls, climbing and jumping over rocks and into pools. This is one of the most wonderful back-to-nature experiences you can find.
Mountain biking wine and food adventure
You’ll head this morning to New Zealand’s adventure capital of Queenstown.
Today you’ll ride the most popular section of the Queenstown Trail. Follow the Arrow River Trail to the historic Kawarau Bungy Bridge. From there proceed into the Gibbston Wine Valley, making your way to a designated winery from which you will be shuttled back to Queenstown.
Total Distance Biked: 14.27km | Total Elevation Gain: 153m | Total Elevation Loss: 198m.
2 nights at Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
Approximate Distance: 111 km / 68mi
Total Driving Time: 1 hour 30 mins
This hanging glacier and cascading waterfalls really is New Zealand’s best-kept secret
Departing Glenorchy, take a heli flight over Glenorchy, the Dart River, and Mt Alfred before touching down in the Mt Earnslaw basin. You’ll follow a meandering glacier-fed river, see an array of wildlife, tussock, speargrass and waterfalls before you reach a corner where the mighty Earnslaw Burn comes into view.
Here, in this beautiful spot, you can sit back and relax with a picnic and soak in the tranquillity of this breathtaking location. After your picnic, your pilot will return you to Glenorchy via a 1,000 metre (over 3,000 feet) ascent towards the blue ice of the hanging glacier.
For more confident walkers, there will be an opportunity to follow ridges, bush spurs and explore multiple river crossings.
Trip summary: 20-25 minutes of flying, 1.5 – 2 hours of hiking, 1 – 1.5 hours for a picnic and exploring
Say farewell to New Zealand today
Say farewell to Queenstown today as you board your onward flight, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional South Island Wilderness Adventure.
If you still want more – then we can easily add to this Itinerary with one of the Great Walks – the 5 Day Milford, The 3 or 5 Day Routeburn or 3 Day Hollyford – just ask!
“This trip is perfect for the experienced hiker who likes their getaway to include physical challenges - getting back in to nature in a big way - as well as still enjoying the finer side to accommodation and dining. This trip has all the beauty spots that New Zealand is famed for and a few more challenging activities - this is a jumping off point - let me design a trip that matches you perfectly.”
Ready to find out more? Talk to one of our friendly travel designers about his tour. We guarantee you it will be the experience of a lifetime!
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The George hotel in Christchurch typifies luxury at every level. Extensive facilities, comprehensive service, excellent quality and attention to detail. Experience our signature style and consistent personalised service. The George restaurant – the award-winning 50 Bistro offers a beautiful setting overlooking Hagley Park, event spaces offer natural light, seclusion and all the modern conveniences while the accommodation offers 5-star comfort.
Set near the shores of Lake Tekapo and surrounded by the spectacular landscapes of the Southern Alps, this Resort offers spectacular Lake Tekapo accommodation on New Zealand’s South Island. Its architectural design is a reflection of the surrounding Mackenzie Basin landscape and offers the perfect destination for a relaxing escape or a retreat after a hectic day of exploration. Set within the burgeoning Mount Cook and Mackenzie District, it is the perfect base from which to explore the natural wonders of the region.
Caroline Hut is the only guide/operator-owned mountain hut in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park and is available for the exclusive use of Alpine Recreation parties.
In summer, Caroline Hut provides a great setting for our alpine treks (Aoraki/Mt. Cook Trek, Ball Pass Summit Trek and Ball Pass Crossing). With alpine rock, snow and ice climbing sites nearby, it is the ideal venue for our mountaineering instruction courses (Introductory Mountaineering Course and Intensive Mountaineering Skills Course). In winter, Caroline Hut provides a warm and cosy base for snowshoeing and ski touring expeditions.
Proudly New Zealand & family owned, the Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki/Mount Cook is an iconic hotel with a rich history spanning over 130 years.
The Hermitage is the perfect base to explore the natural wonders of the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, with a variety of accommodation options, a collection of dining establishments & unique activities whilst providing genuine kiwi hospitality.
The lodge sits high on a ridge overlooking Wanaka with breathtaking views over Lake Wanaka and the mountains beyond. The perfect base for skiing, tramping, biking, or just relaxing around the lodge with its stunning views over Lake Wanaka. On-site are a tennis court, swimming pool (heated in summer), sauna and gym, and mountain bikes. Sleep in the silence of the countryside and wake to a leisurely breakfast before setting out on another day of adventure.
Experience the sophistication of Queenstown Park Hotel, a haven of luxury accommodation for all seasons. This boutique hotel has a modern romantic style, close to Queenstown’s vibrant shopping, cafes and nightlife. Your comfort and pleasure is our highest concern. Enjoy spectacular views and peaceful surroundings.
Trek across high mountain passes surrounded by New Zealand’s highest peaks and longest glacier! Enjoy two nights in the private Caroline Hut, savouring the fabulous views of the 2000m high Caroline Face of Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest ice face. Relax in its wonderful setting on the Ball Ridge, high above the Tasman Glacier, and be awed by the ice avalanches rumbling down Mount Cook.
Climb Kaitiaki Peak (2222m) to enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding Southern Alps, including close up views of the Hillary Ridge and South Face of Aoraki Mount Cook. Explore the Ball Glacier with your guide on the way to crossing Ball Pass (2121m) before the long and steep descent into the Hooker Valley.
The Ball Pass Crossing combines an opportunity to learn basic mountaineering skills and summit a peak with the hard, physically demanding challenge of a high alpine crossing.
Ready for a fantastic adrenaline rush? The Niger Stream is a world class canyon, located in the gorgeous Matukituki Valley, gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park. Be prepared for a day of high excitement and heaps of fun in a unique and fabulous natural setting. You will be abseiling and sliding down waterfalls, climbing and jumping over rocks and into pools. This is one of the most wonderful back-to-nature experiences you can find.
Ride the most popular section of the Queenstown Trail. Follow the Arrow River Trail to the historic Kawarau Bungy Bridge. From there proceed into the Gibbston Wine Valley, making your way to a designated winery from which you will be shuttled back to Queenstown.
Total Distance: 14.27km | Total Elevation Gain: 153m | Total Elevation Loss: 198m.
The Earnslaw Burn with its hanging glacier and cascading waterfalls really is New Zealand’s best-kept secret, and a guided heli hike is the best way to experience it.
Departing Glenorchy, take a heli flight over Glenorchy, the Dart River, and Mt Alfred before touching down in the Mt Earnslaw basin.
After 1.5 – 2 hours of walking, your hike will conclude in the Earnslaw Burn by a tumbling waterfall and below Mt Earnslaw Glacier – a world famous glacier. Here, in this beautiful spot, you can sit back and relax with a picnic and soak in the tranquillity of this breathtaking location.
After your picnic, your pilot will return you to Glenorchy via a 1,000 metre (over 3,000 feet) ascent towards the blue ice of the hanging glacier.
Christchurch is the city of exploration, where urban regeneration and heritage thrive. The city is constantly evolving, always giving locals and visitors something new to explore. Expect street art and innovative projects, a bustling hospitality scene and established green spaces. Christchurch is the newest city in the world, and it’s time the world rediscovered its secrets.The central city is filled with cutting-edge architecture alongside some of the oldest buildings in New Zealand. The Avon River intersects the city, bringing a natural landscape to the urban environment.
Lake Tekapo is about three hours drive south-west of Christchurch in the Mackenzie Basin. The township faces north across the remarkable turquoise coloured lake to the mountainous drama of the Southern Alps. Lake Tekapo gets its intense milky-turquoise colour from the fine rock-flour (ground by glaciers) which is suspended in the water.
The unforgettable night sky reveals why Lake Tekapo has a reputation for clear air. Lake Tekapo offers a wide range of outdoor activities throughout the year including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, kayaking and skiing.
MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK
Mt Cook National Park is known for its exquisite alpine beauty and is home to the highest mountain in New Zealand, Mt Cook. Its Maori name, ‘Aoraki’ means ‘cloud piercer’ and at 12,016ft (3,755m) it towers above the surrounding snow-covered peaks in the park. A third of the park is covered in permanent ice and snow and the mighty Tasman Glacier is the longest glacier outside of the polar regions. This is the very heart and soul of a World Heritage and National Park wilderness playground. Ice, snow, hidden valleys, lakes and glaciers offer golden opportunities for discovery, relaxation and adventure.
Wanaka Town is located on the southern shores of Lake Wanaka, embraced by the Southern Alps, Wanaka is Otago’s second resort town after Queenstown. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Wanaka, New Zealand’s fourth largest lake, reflect the snow-capped peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park. Here you can absorb the unstoppable beauty of pristine wilderness and know that it will be easy to find a great restaurant for dinner. The township of Wanaka is a magnet for visitors who want to find the perfect combination of outdoor adventure and indoor luxury.
