While most walking tours of New Zealand’s South Island skip over its majestic north coast, we wouldn’t want you to miss out on the best of the island! On this unique Country Walkers adventure, you’ll explore the splendid vistas of the Southern Alps, the pristine shores of Lake Rotoiti, and take a boat ride to the golden sands of Abel Tasman National Park—a rich coastal environment unspoiled by car traffic. Here, you’ll stay in a secluded lodge perched deep in the coastal forest—just a short walk from the smooth shores of Awaroa Beach. Surrounded by wildlife, you’ll discover wetlands and sub-tropical bush that are home to native pūkeko, oyster-catchers, and songbirds—even getting up close to the cheeky, flightless weka. Cruise through the incomparable beauty of Marlborough Sounds as the ship’s captain pauses by a greenlip mussel farm—pulling ropes of plump, succulent shellfish straight from the sea. Along the way, you’ll enjoy New Zealand’s renowned farm-to-table cuisine, superlative vintages, and the cheerful camaraderie of your insightful Kiwi leaders.
Hike the Mt. Robert Circuit, an alpine trail overlooking Lake Rotoiti, in Nelson Lakes National Park, gazing up for views of the snow-capped Southern Alps.
Explore one of New Zealand’s “Great Walks,” the Abel Tasman Coast Track, admiring its golden beaches, crystal-clear bays, and stunning rock formations.
Take in panoramic views of turquoise waters and stunning coastlines at Marlborough Sounds, as you ascend the ridge-top trails of the Queen Charlotte Track.
Enjoy iconic Greenshell mussels and local Sauvignon Blanc aboard a private cruise across Marlborough Sound, sailing past some of the most spectacular scenery on the South Island.
Browse the charming town center of Hanmer Springs, with its colorful galleries and inviting shops, before soaking in the thermal, mineral-rich pools around which the town was established.
Positive Impact
Country Walkers is proud to support Wine to Water with a donation on behalf of each guest on this tour. Wine to Water is an international organization providing access to clean drinking water and emergency supplies in water-challenged regions. We believe in giving back to the places that have enriched the lives of our guests. We’re committed to identifying and supporting sustainable initiatives in a variety of areas including education, world health, economic equality, safe drinking water, the environment, and the preservation of cultural traditions.
On all Guided Adventures you can count on...
Expert local leaders to introduce you to the best of your destination
Off-the-beaten-path places you’d never find on your own
Delicious multi-course meals—a majority are included
A maximum of 18 fun-loving fellow travelers to share the journey
Gracious accommodations that are a clean, comfortable home away from home
Experts to handle all the details
Air Packages include plane tickets, airport shuttles, and pre- and post-tour accommodations
Terrain Description for New Zealand: The South Island
This tour is one of our Guided Walking Adventures, rated easy to moderate, averaging 2-8 miles of walking per day. The walking terrain is varied, including well-worn forest paths, exposed trails with rocks and roots, and stretches of sandy beach in Abel Tasman National Park. You will cross many suspension bridges, which are well-built and not very high. While this is not a mountain-climbing tour, there are daily ascents and descents. You travel through extremely diverse climate zones and correspondingly varied walking terrain including high alpine, temperate rainforest, and coastal paths.
Miles and Elevation for New Zealand: The South Island
Summary of the activity level of the tour New Zealand: The South Island
, broken down by day and available options.
Tour Day
Choose Your Route Options
Miles per Option
Hours per Option**
Elevation per Option***
Activity Level
1
Walk
3
01:30
easy-moderate
2
ShortLong
0.52
00:3001:00
easyeasy
3
LongShort
52
02:3001:00
moderateeasy
4
Walk
3-5
01:30-02:30-02:30
easy-moderate
5
Walk
6
03:30
easy-moderate
6
LongShort
11
00:3000:30
moderateeasy
7
Walk
7
03:30
easy-moderate
Alternate options may be available **Route mileage, hours, and elevation gain/loss are all approximate ***Elevation gain/loss indicated if greater than 500 feet
Start off your first day in Christchurch right by having a Country Walkers representative greet you at the airport. A complimentary car service will whisk you to your centrally located hotel. From here, you are perfectly positioned to explore this charming city at your leisure.
Meet in Christchurch. Conical Hill Walk; 3 miles, easy to moderate
After enjoying an included breakfast at your hotel, meet your leaders at the Chateau on the Park at 9:30 a.m. in the lobby. They will be wearing Country Walkers shirts. Please be dressed for walking.
Drive from Christchurch this morning to Hanmer Springs, a walker’s paradise of forested hills dotted with soothing thermal baths. The small town was discovered and settled for its hot springs, which today lure those seeking curative waters in a pastoral setting. Upon arrival, set off on a short scenic walk among diverse sub-alpine flora. The iconic Conical Hill Walk features a gentle climb that zigzags through exotic varieties of trees, including Japanese cypress and giant fir. At the summit, enjoy spectacular views of the sweeping Hanmer Basin. Relax here for a while at the lookout where a plaque honors the work of Duncan Rutherford, an early settler who helped develop the area.
Later, browse the charming center of Hanmer Springs, with its colorful galleries and inviting shops and restaurants. Then it’s time to indulge in the thermal pools around which the town was established. A soak in the springs’ soothing, mineral-rich waters will leave you relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready for your New Zealand adventure.
Note: Please have your swimwear easily accessible in your day bag if you wish to soak in the thermal pools.
After breakfast, you begin the northeast drive to the small alpine village of St. Arnaud. En route, enjoy a short, easy walk through an alpine environment. Once you reach the Alpine Lodge, your home for the next two days, you’ll have time to settle into your room before rejoining the group. Located on the northern shores of Lake Rotoiti, St. Arnaud is a favored base for New Zealand trampers exploring the picturesque contours of Nelson Lakes National Park. This 390-square-mile stretch encompasses the surrounding mountains and sparkling waters of Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotoroa—its vistas are magnificent, as you will discover.
Head out directly from the lodge to trace a loop trail, the Honeydew Walk. This mostly flat trail provides the perfect introduction to the plants and birdlife that call the northern mountains of the South Island home—from thick beech forests and grassy tussocks to kākāriki (parakeet) and korimako (bellbird).
This evening, join your fellow walkers and leaders for a delicious dinner of locally sourced ingredients. Throughout your adventure, you’ll dine on fresh foods harvested from local farms and the surrounding sea. Though much of New Zealand’s cuisine is British-based, modern-day dishes have Mediterranean, Southeast Asian, and Pacific Rim influences.
A hearty breakfast at your lodge provides fuel for today’s longer walk. With a leader-prepared picnic lunch in your pack, travel to the trailhead for the Mt. Robert Circuit. There, you set out on a loop around the flank of Pourangahau, the mountain’s indigenous name. These slopes were crowded with beech trees until 1887, when a fire consumed many of them. In the ensuing years, early settlers favored grass growth over tree regeneration for the grazing of sheep. Still an actively recovering forest today, it provides a fascinating glimpse of the area’s natural history.
As you climb steadily toward the summit, your hike offers sweeping views of Lake Rotoiti. You can make use of the huts and shelters along the way to take a break and marvel at the dramatic scenery. As you ascend, the forest recedes, and you walk past alpine herbs and shrubs. At the mountain’s open face, you pass several scree-filled gullies before crossing the ridge for your return hike. For a gentler walk, follow the Brunner Peninsula Nature Trail, a mostly flat loop path with views from Kerr Bay and West Bay across Lake Rotoiti to surrounding peaks. If you wish, enjoy the lake’s beach and browse the visitor center before returning to the lodge for a relaxing afternoon or swim. In the event of rain in New Zealand’s unpredictable climate, your leaders provide wet-weather options.
Savor another delectable dinner at the lodge tonight, then perhaps go for a walk to search for the Southern Cross in the night sky. Visible year-round only from the Southern Hemisphere, it is among the smallest of constellations: four bright stars shining close together.
Abel Tasman Coast Track; 3 or 5 miles, easy to moderate
You leave the magnificent mountains of St. Arnaud and Nelson Lakes National Park behind this morning, traveling north to the coast. Enjoy the scenic, two-hour drive, arriving at seaside Kaiteriteri in time to enjoy lunch in the village before boarding the Sea Shuttle that will whisk you to New Zealand’s acclaimed Abel Tasman National Park. As you cruise, take in the marine vistas and marvel at the famous Split Apple Rock, a massive granite boulder cleaved in half over millennia by wind and water. You also pass Adele Island, home to a colony of fur seals, and numerous pristine beaches lapped by crystalline turquoise waters.
Disembark at either Medland’s Beach for a long option or Tonga Quarry to set off along the celebrated Abel Tasman Coast Track, heralded as one of New Zealand’s “Great Walks” by the Department of Conservation. This magnificent trail leads past rocky outcrops, quiet sheltered coves, and golden, palm-fringed beaches. You’ll arrive at your lodge late this afternoon. You may wish to head down to the beach for a swim or simply relax on your room’s private deck, perhaps pausing to chat with other walkers passing through. As the day draws to a close, the day-hikers leave and a hush falls over the lodge; you are among the lucky few to experience this magical place overnight.
The beauty of Abel Tasman is its shape-shifting character. Over millennia, tidal activity has sculpted the landscape, which has some of the largest tidal ranges in New Zealand. Park walks often involve crossing inlets, but only at low tide and when conditions allow. Rest assured that, with a flexible mindset and readiness to change course, your experience in this breathtaking region will be richly rewarding.
If you wish, you may join your leader on a four- to five-hour walk from your lodge to Totaranui. Your walk and return shuttle are timed to work with the tides. You depart the lodge with a packed lunch and traverse the Awaroa Inlet, lush with beech, rimu, and matai forest with sweeping views of the wilderness. Descend into Totaranui, passing giant rata trees in their clifftop habitats. Upon arrival at Totaranui’s National Park headquarters, peruse the informative exhibit on local ecology, and walk down to the beach for a swim. After time to relax, board the Sea Shuttle back to Awaroa. This afternoon, enjoy time on the nearby beach, or head out for some birdwatching in search of petrels, herons, or even penguins. Or seek out other wildlife in the Awaroa wetlands, perhaps deer or wild goats. Regroup with your fellow travelers for dinner together in the dining room of the Lodge.
This morning, “have a lie-in,” as the locals say, and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Once you’re ready for the day, spend an hour or so traversing the Sky Track Trail, a splendid loop walk open only to guests of the lodge. The path climbs about 300 feet above the inlet, affording breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and azure waters along the coastline.
In the late morning, walk five minutes from the lodge to the beach to catch the Sea Shuttle back to Kaiteriteri. From here, enjoy a scenic drive to Havelock, the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds. Before reaching Havelock, discover ancient rimu trees and enjoy expansive views of the Pelorus River on the Circle Loop Trail at the Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve. In the north of this spectacular coastal region, a vast expanse of sea-drowned valleys forms dozens of secluded bays, islands, and beaches. It’s an ideal place for exploration on foot. In the south, the undulating hills are blanketed with vineyards that produce some of New Zealand’s finest wines. Later, stop in for lunch at a riverside cafe and enjoy the laid-back vibration of the small, artistic community.
This afternoon, embark on a private cruiser and set off across shimmering waters to reach your lodge on Kenepuru Sound. About an hour later, arrive at Portage Bay and your home for the next two nights, with easy access to Kenepuru Sound from a private dock. Enjoy fresh-from-the-water seafood during dinner on your own this evening.
The Marlborough Sounds comprise one of New Zealand’s most fascinating playgrounds for outdoor lovers. And your lodge is ideally positioned for you to take full advantage of the surrounding beauty and invigorating activities. Join us for a final and unforgettable walk along portions of the 43-mile Queen Charlotte Track, one of New Zealand’s most remarkable walks.
After breakfast, embark a water taxi from the lodge’s dock to the start of your walk on the Queen Charlotte Track, traversing the ridgeline of hills that surround the sound. As you cruise, the captain enlightens you about greenshell mussels, a local delicacy. On foot, follow the Portage Track through native bush along rolling ascents and descents, marveling at magnificent views over the mirror-like water, reflecting the distant hills and sky. Your walk ends with a leisurely descent back to your hotel in Portage Bay, where you might hop on a paddleboard or kayak before the evening descends, both free for use by guests of the hotel.
Tonight, gather with your travel mates for dinner in the hotel’s dining room.
After breakfast, you travel to the town of Nelson, the oldest city on the South Island, where there will be time to explore on your own or walk to the hilltop “Centre of New Zealand,” which many believe to be the nation’s geographic center. From the top, enjoy sweeping views of surrounding hills and the city of Nelson. You say goodbye to your leaders after an included lunch downtown. The small city is yours to explore for the remainder of the day. Your luggage will be delivered to your hotel, and your guides will provide walking maps so that you may return to the hotel at your leisure in the afternoon. Please note that check-in may not be available until after 3:00 p.m.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy—perhaps explore the city, rest up in the hotel, or select a local restaurant for dinner. We provide detailed city information to help you plan your day.
After an included breakfast this morning, a complimentary shuttle to the Nelson Airport, about 10 minutes away, will be provided by SuperShuttle based on your departure time.
Start off your first day in Christchurch right by having a Country Walkers representative greet you at the airport. A complimentary car service will whisk you to your centrally located hotel. From here, you are perfectly positioned to explore this charming city at your leisure.
Meet in Christchurch. Conical Hill Walk; 3 miles, easy to moderate
After enjoying an included breakfast at your hotel, meet your guides at the Chateau on the Park at 9:30 a.m. in the lobby. They will be wearing Country Walkers shirts. Please be dressed for walking.
Drive from Christchurch this morning to Hanmer Springs, a walker’s paradise of forested hills dotted with soothing thermal baths. The small town was discovered and settled for its hot springs, which today lure those seeking curative waters in a pastoral setting. Upon arrival, set off on a short scenic walk among diverse sub-alpine flora. The iconic Conical Hill Walk features a gentle climb that zigzags through exotic varieties of trees, including Japanese cypress and giant fir. At the summit, enjoy spectacular views of the sweeping Hanmer Basin. Relax here for a while at the lookout where a plaque honors the work of Duncan Rutherford, an early settler who helped develop the area.
Later, browse the charming center of Hanmer Springs, with its colorful galleries and inviting shops and restaurants. Then it’s time to indulge in the thermal pools around which the town was established. A soak in the springs’ soothing, mineral-rich waters will leave you relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready for your New Zealand adventure.
Note: Please have your swimwear easily accessible in your day bag if you wish to soak in the thermal pools.
After breakfast, you begin the northeast drive to the small alpine village of St. Arnaud. En route, enjoy a short, easy walk through an alpine environment. Once you reach the Alpine Lodge, your home for the next two days, you’ll have time to settle into your room before rejoining the group. Located on the northern shores of Lake Rotoiti, St. Arnaud is a favored base for New Zealand trampers exploring the picturesque contours of Nelson Lakes National Park. This 390-square-mile stretch encompasses the surrounding mountains and sparkling waters of Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotoroa—its vistas are magnificent, as you will discover.
Head out directly from the lodge to trace a loop trail, the Honeydew Walk. This mostly flat trail provides the perfect introduction to the plants and birdlife that call the northern mountains of the South Island home—from thick beech forests and grassy tussocks to kākāriki (parakeet) and korimako (bellbird).
This evening, join your fellow walkers and guides for a delicious dinner of locally sourced ingredients. Throughout your adventure, you’ll dine on fresh foods harvested from local farms and the surrounding sea. Though much of New Zealand’s cuisine is British-based, modern-day dishes have Mediterranean, Southeast Asian, and Pacific Rim influences.
A hearty breakfast at your lodge provides fuel for today’s longer walk. With a guide-prepared picnic lunch in your pack, travel to the trailhead for the Mt. Robert Circuit. There, you set out on a loop around the flank of Pourangahau, the mountain’s indigenous name. These slopes were crowded with beech trees until 1887, when a fire consumed many of them. In the ensuing years, early settlers favored grass growth over tree regeneration for the grazing of sheep. Still an actively recovering forest today, it provides a fascinating glimpse of the area’s natural history.
As you climb steadily toward the summit, your hike offers sweeping views of Lake Rotoiti. You can make use of the huts and shelters along the way to take a break and marvel at the dramatic scenery. As you ascend, the forest recedes, and you walk past alpine herbs and shrubs. At the mountain’s open face, you pass several scree-filled gullies before crossing the ridge for your return hike. For a gentler walk, follow the Brunner Peninsula Nature Trail, a mostly flat loop path with views from Kerr Bay and West Bay across Lake Rotoiti to surrounding peaks. If you wish, enjoy the lake’s beach and browse the visitor center before returning to the lodge for a relaxing afternoon or swim. In the event of rain in New Zealand’s unpredictable climate, your guides provide wet-weather options.
Savor another delectable dinner at the lodge tonight, then perhaps go for a walk to search for the Southern Cross in the night sky. Visible year-round only from the Southern Hemisphere, it is among the smallest of constellations: four bright stars shining close together.
Abel Tasman Coast Track; 3 or 5 miles, easy to moderate
You leave the magnificent mountains of St. Arnaud and Nelson Lakes National Park behind this morning, traveling north to the coast. Enjoy the scenic, two-hour drive, arriving at seaside Kaiteriteri in time to enjoy lunch in the village before boarding the Sea Shuttle that will whisk you to New Zealand’s acclaimed Abel Tasman National Park. As you cruise, take in the marine vistas and marvel at the famous Split Apple Rock, a massive granite boulder cleaved in half over millennia by wind and water. You also pass Adele Island, home to a colony of fur seals, and numerous pristine beaches lapped by crystalline turquoise waters.
Disembark at either Medland’s Beach for a long option or Tonga Quarry to set off along the celebrated Abel Tasman Coast Track, heralded as one of New Zealand’s “Great Walks” by the Department of Conservation. This magnificent trail leads past rocky outcrops, quiet sheltered coves, and golden, palm-fringed beaches. You’ll arrive at your lodge late this afternoon. You may wish to head down to the beach for a swim or simply relax on your room’s private deck, perhaps pausing to chat with other walkers passing through. As the day draws to a close, the day-hikers leave and a hush falls over the lodge; you are among the lucky few to experience this magical place overnight.
The beauty of Abel Tasman is its shape-shifting character. Over millennia, tidal activity has sculpted the landscape, which has some of the largest tidal ranges in New Zealand. Park walks often involve crossing inlets, but only at low tide and when conditions allow. Rest assured that, with a flexible mindset and readiness to change course, your experience in this breathtaking region will be richly rewarding.
If you wish, you may join your guide on a four- to five-hour walk from your lodge to Totaranui. Your walk and return shuttle are timed to work with the tides. You depart the lodge with a packed lunch and traverse the Awaroa Inlet, lush with beech, rimu, and matai forest with sweeping views of the wilderness. Descend into Totaranui, passing giant rata trees in their clifftop habitats. Upon arrival at Totaranui’s National Park headquarters, peruse the informative exhibit on local ecology, and walk down to the beach for a swim. After time to relax, board the Sea Shuttle back to Awaroa. This afternoon, enjoy time on the nearby beach, or head out for some birdwatching in search of petrels, herons, or even penguins. Or seek out other wildlife in the Awaroa wetlands, perhaps deer or wild goats. Regroup with your fellow travelers for dinner together in the dining room of the Lodge.
This morning, “have a lie-in,” as the locals say, and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Once you’re ready for the day, spend an hour or so traversing the Sky Track Trail, a splendid loop walk open only to guests of the lodge. The path climbs about 300 feet above the inlet, affording breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and azure waters along the coastline.
In the late morning, walk five minutes from the lodge to the beach to catch the Sea Shuttle back to Kaiteriteri. From here, enjoy a scenic drive to Havelock, the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds. Before reaching Havelock, discover ancient rimu trees and enjoy expansive views of the Pelorus River on the Circle Loop Trail at the Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve. In the north of this spectacular coastal region, a vast expanse of sea-drowned valleys forms dozens of secluded bays, islands, and beaches. It’s an ideal place for exploration on foot. In the south, the undulating hills are blanketed with vineyards that produce some of New Zealand’s finest wines. Later, stop in for lunch at a riverside cafe and enjoy the laid-back vibration of the small, artistic community.
This afternoon, embark on a private cruiser and set off across shimmering waters to reach your lodge on Kenepuru Sound. About an hour later, arrive at Portage Bay and your home for the next two nights, with easy access to Kenepuru Sound from a private dock. Enjoy fresh-from-the-water seafood during dinner on your own this evening.
The Marlborough Sounds comprise one of New Zealand’s most fascinating playgrounds for outdoor lovers. And your lodge is ideally positioned for you to take full advantage of the surrounding beauty and invigorating activities. Join us for a final and unforgettable walk along portions of the 43-mile Queen Charlotte Track, one of New Zealand’s most remarkable walks.
After breakfast, embark a water taxi from the lodge’s dock to the start of your walk on the Queen Charlotte Track, traversing the ridgeline of hills that surround the sound. As you cruise, the captain enlightens you about greenshell mussels, a local delicacy. On foot, follow the Portage Track through native bush along rolling ascents and descents, marveling at magnificent views over the mirror-like water, reflecting the distant hills and sky. Your walk ends with a leisurely descent back to your hotel in Portage Bay, where you might hop on a paddleboard or kayak before the evening descends, both free for use by guests of the hotel.
Tonight, gather with your travel mates for dinner in the hotel’s dining room.
After breakfast, you travel to the town of Nelson, the oldest city on the South Island, where there will be time to explore on your own or walk to the hilltop “Centre of New Zealand,” which many believe to be the nation’s geographic center. From the top, enjoy sweeping views of surrounding hills and the city of Nelson. You say goodbye to your guides after an included lunch downtown. The small city is yours to explore for the remainder of the day. Your luggage will be delivered to your hotel, and your guides will provide walking maps so that you may return to the hotel at your leisure in the afternoon. Please note that check-in may not be available until after 3:00 p.m.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy—perhaps explore the city, rest up in the hotel, or select a local restaurant for dinner. We provide detailed city information to help you plan your day.
After an included breakfast this morning, a complimentary shuttle to the Nelson Airport, about 10 minutes away, will be provided by SuperShuttle based on your departure time.
Meet in Christchurch. Conical Hill Walk; 3 miles, easy to moderate
Your leaders meet you at the Chateau on the Park at 9:30 a.m. in the lobby. They will be wearing Country Walkers shirts. Please be dressed for walking.
Drive from Christchurch this morning to Hanmer Springs, a walker’s paradise of forested hills dotted with soothing thermal baths. The small town was discovered and settled for its hot springs, which today lure those seeking curative waters in a pastoral setting. Upon arrival, set off on a short scenic walk among diverse sub-alpine flora. The iconic Conical Hill Walk features a gentle climb that zigzags through exotic varieties of trees, including Japanese cypress and giant fir. At the summit, enjoy spectacular views of the sweeping Hanmer Basin. Relax here for a while at the lookout where a plaque honors the work of Duncan Rutherford, an early settler who helped develop the area.
Later, browse the charming center of Hanmer Springs, with its colorful galleries and inviting shops and restaurants. Then it’s time to indulge in the thermal pools around which the town was established. A soak in the springs’ soothing, mineral-rich waters will leave you relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready for your New Zealand adventure.
Note: Please have your swimwear easily accessible in your day bag if you wish to soak in the thermal pools.
After breakfast, you begin the northeast drive to the small alpine village of St. Arnaud. En route, enjoy a short, easy walk through an alpine environment. Once you reach the Alpine Lodge, your home for the next two days, you’ll have time to settle into your room before rejoining the group. Located on the northern shores of Lake Rotoiti, St. Arnaud is a favored base for New Zealand trampers exploring the picturesque contours of Nelson Lakes National Park. This 390-square-mile stretch encompasses the surrounding mountains and sparkling waters of Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotoroa—its vistas are magnificent, as you will discover.
Head out directly from the lodge to trace a loop trail, the Honeydew Walk. This mostly flat trail provides the perfect introduction to the plants and birdlife that call the northern mountains of the South Island home—from thick beech forests and grassy tussocks to kākāriki (parakeet) and korimako (bellbird).
This evening, join your fellow walkers and leaders for a delicious dinner of locally sourced ingredients. Throughout your adventure, you’ll dine on fresh foods harvested from local farms and the surrounding sea. Though much of New Zealand’s cuisine is British-based, modern-day dishes have Mediterranean, Southeast Asian, and Pacific Rim influences.
A hearty breakfast at your lodge provides fuel for today’s longer walk. With a leader-prepared picnic lunch in your pack, travel to the trailhead for the Mt. Robert Circuit. There, you set out on a loop around the flank of Pourangahau, the mountain’s indigenous name. These slopes were crowded with beech trees until 1887, when a fire consumed many of them. In the ensuing years, early settlers favored grass growth over tree regeneration for the grazing of sheep. Still an actively recovering forest today, it provides a fascinating glimpse of the area’s natural history.
As you climb steadily toward the summit, your hike offers sweeping views of Lake Rotoiti. You can make use of the huts and shelters along the way to take a break and marvel at the dramatic scenery. As you ascend, the forest recedes, and you walk past alpine herbs and shrubs. At the mountain’s open face, you pass several scree-filled gullies before crossing the ridge for your return hike. For a gentler walk, follow the Brunner Peninsula Nature Trail, a mostly flat loop path with views from Kerr Bay and West Bay across Lake Rotoiti to surrounding peaks. If you wish, enjoy the lake’s beach and browse the visitor center before returning to the lodge for a relaxing afternoon or swim. In the event of rain in New Zealand’s unpredictable climate, your leaders provide wet-weather options.
Savor another delectable dinner at the lodge tonight, then perhaps go for a walk to search for the Southern Cross in the night sky. Visible year-round only from the Southern Hemisphere, it is among the smallest of constellations: four bright stars shining close together.
Abel Tasman Coast Track; 3 or 5 miles, easy to moderate
You leave the magnificent mountains of St. Arnaud and Nelson Lakes National Park behind this morning, traveling north to the coast. Enjoy the scenic, two-hour drive, arriving at seaside Kaiteriteri in time to enjoy lunch in the village before boarding the Sea Shuttle that will whisk you to New Zealand’s acclaimed Abel Tasman National Park. As you cruise, take in the marine vistas and marvel at the famous Split Apple Rock, a massive granite boulder cleaved in half over millennia by wind and water. You also pass Adele Island, home to a colony of fur seals, and numerous pristine beaches lapped by crystalline turquoise waters.
Disembark at either Medland’s Beach for a long option or Tonga Quarry to set off along the celebrated Abel Tasman Coast Track, heralded as one of New Zealand’s “Great Walks” by the Department of Conservation. This magnificent trail leads past rocky outcrops, quiet sheltered coves, and golden, palm-fringed beaches. You’ll arrive at your lodge late this afternoon. You may wish to head down to the beach for a swim or simply relax on your room’s private deck, perhaps pausing to chat with other walkers passing through. As the day draws to a close, the day-hikers leave and a hush falls over the lodge; you are among the lucky few to experience this magical place overnight.
The beauty of Abel Tasman is its shape-shifting character. Over millennia, tidal activity has sculpted the landscape, which has some of the largest tidal ranges in New Zealand. Park walks often involve crossing inlets, but only at low tide and when conditions allow. Rest assured that, with a flexible mindset and readiness to change course, your experience in this breathtaking region will be richly rewarding.
If you wish, you may join your leader on a four- to five-hour walk from your lodge to Totaranui. Your walk and return shuttle are timed to work with the tides. You depart the lodge with a packed lunch and traverse the Awaroa Inlet, lush with beech, rimu, and matai forest with sweeping views of the wilderness. Descend into Totaranui, passing giant rata trees in their clifftop habitats. Upon arrival at Totaranui’s National Park headquarters, peruse the informative exhibit on local ecology, and walk down to the beach for a swim. After time to relax, board the Sea Shuttle back to Awaroa. This afternoon, enjoy time on the nearby beach, or head out for some birdwatching in search of petrels, herons, or even penguins. Or seek out other wildlife in the Awaroa wetlands, perhaps deer or wild goats. Regroup with your fellow travelers for dinner together in the dining room of the Lodge.
This morning, “have a lie-in,” as the locals say, and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Once you’re ready for the day, spend an hour or so traversing the Sky Track Trail, a splendid loop walk open only to guests of the lodge. The path climbs about 300 feet above the inlet, affording breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and azure waters along the coastline.
In the late morning, walk five minutes from the lodge to the beach to catch the Sea Shuttle back to Kaiteriteri. From here, enjoy a scenic drive to Havelock, the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds. Before reaching Havelock, discover ancient rimu trees and enjoy expansive views of the Pelorus River on the Circle Loop Trail at the Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve. In the north of this spectacular coastal region, a vast expanse of sea-drowned valleys forms dozens of secluded bays, islands, and beaches. It’s an ideal place for exploration on foot. In the south, the undulating hills are blanketed with vineyards that produce some of New Zealand’s finest wines. Later, stop in for lunch at a riverside cafe and enjoy the laid-back vibration of the small, artistic community.
This afternoon, embark on a private cruiser and set off across shimmering waters to reach your lodge on Kenepuru Sound. About an hour later, arrive at Portage Bay and your home for the next two nights, with easy access to Kenepuru Sound from a private dock. Enjoy fresh-from-the-water seafood during dinner on your own this evening.
The Marlborough Sounds comprise one of New Zealand’s most fascinating playgrounds for outdoor lovers. And your lodge is ideally positioned for you to take full advantage of the surrounding beauty and invigorating activities. Join us for a final and unforgettable walk along portions of the 43-mile Queen Charlotte Track, one of New Zealand’s most remarkable walks.
After breakfast, embark a water taxi from the lodge’s dock to the start of your walk on the Queen Charlotte Track, traversing the ridgeline of hills that surround the sound. As you cruise, the captain enlightens you about greenshell mussels, a local delicacy. On foot, follow the Portage Track through native bush along rolling ascents and descents, marveling at magnificent views over the mirror-like water, reflecting the distant hills and sky. Your walk ends with a leisurely descent back to your hotel in Portage Bay, where you might hop on a paddleboard or kayak before the evening descends, both free for use by guests of the hotel.
Tonight, gather with your travel mates for dinner in the hotel’s dining room.
Optional – Centre of New Zealand Walk; 1 mile, easy
After breakfast, you travel to the town of Nelson, the oldest city on the South Island, where there will be time to explore on your own or walk to the hilltop “Centre of New Zealand,” which many believe is the nation’s geographic center. From the top, enjoy sweeping views of surrounding hills and the city of Nelson. You may also forgo the walk and opt to visit the iconic weekly Nelson markets that take place in town each Saturday morning. After lunch at one of the restaurants in town, you will be driven to the airport, arriving at approximately 12:30 p.m.
Meet in Christchurch. Conical Hill Walk; 3 miles, easy to moderate
Your guides meet you at the Chateau on the Park at 9:30 a.m. in the lobby. They will be wearing Country Walkers shirts. Please be dressed for walking.
Drive from Christchurch this morning to Hanmer Springs, a walker’s paradise of forested hills dotted with soothing thermal baths. The small town was discovered and settled for its hot springs, which today lure those seeking curative waters in a pastoral setting. Upon arrival, set off on a short scenic walk among diverse sub-alpine flora. The iconic Conical Hill Walk features a gentle climb that zigzags through exotic varieties of trees, including Japanese cypress and giant fir. At the summit, enjoy spectacular views of the sweeping Hanmer Basin. Relax here for a while at the lookout where a plaque honors the work of Duncan Rutherford, an early settler who helped develop the area.
Later, browse the charming center of Hanmer Springs, with its colorful galleries and inviting shops and restaurants. Then it’s time to indulge in the thermal pools around which the town was established. A soak in the springs’ soothing, mineral-rich waters will leave you relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready for your New Zealand adventure.
Note: Please have your swimwear easily accessible in your day bag if you wish to soak in the thermal pools.
After breakfast, you begin the northeast drive to the small alpine village of St. Arnaud. En route, enjoy a short, easy walk through an alpine environment. Once you reach the Alpine Lodge, your home for the next two days, you’ll have time to settle into your room before rejoining the group. Located on the northern shores of Lake Rotoiti, St. Arnaud is a favored base for New Zealand trampers exploring the picturesque contours of Nelson Lakes National Park. This 390-square-mile stretch encompasses the surrounding mountains and sparkling waters of Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotoroa—its vistas are magnificent, as you will discover.
Head out directly from the lodge to trace a loop trail, the Honeydew Walk. This mostly flat trail provides the perfect introduction to the plants and birdlife that call the northern mountains of the South Island home—from thick beech forests and grassy tussocks to kākāriki (parakeet) and korimako (bellbird).
This evening, join your fellow walkers and guides for a delicious dinner of locally sourced ingredients. Throughout your adventure, you’ll dine on fresh foods harvested from local farms and the surrounding sea. Though much of New Zealand’s cuisine is British-based, modern-day dishes have Mediterranean, Southeast Asian, and Pacific Rim influences.
A hearty breakfast at your lodge provides fuel for today’s longer walk. With a guide-prepared picnic lunch in your pack, travel to the trailhead for the Mt. Robert Circuit. There, you set out on a loop around the flank of Pourangahau, the mountain’s indigenous name. These slopes were crowded with beech trees until 1887, when a fire consumed many of them. In the ensuing years, early settlers favored grass growth over tree regeneration for the grazing of sheep. Still an actively recovering forest today, it provides a fascinating glimpse of the area’s natural history.
As you climb steadily toward the summit, your hike offers sweeping views of Lake Rotoiti. You can make use of the huts and shelters along the way to take a break and marvel at the dramatic scenery. As you ascend, the forest recedes, and you walk past alpine herbs and shrubs. At the mountain’s open face, you pass several scree-filled gullies before crossing the ridge for your return hike. For a gentler walk, follow the Brunner Peninsula Nature Trail, a mostly flat loop path with views from Kerr Bay and West Bay across Lake Rotoiti to surrounding peaks. If you wish, enjoy the lake’s beach and browse the visitor center before returning to the lodge for a relaxing afternoon or swim. In the event of rain in New Zealand’s unpredictable climate, your guides provide wet-weather options.
Savor another delectable dinner at the lodge tonight, then perhaps go for a walk to search for the Southern Cross in the night sky. Visible year-round only from the Southern Hemisphere, it is among the smallest of constellations: four bright stars shining close together.
Abel Tasman Coast Track; 3 or 5 miles, easy to moderate
You leave the magnificent mountains of St. Arnaud and Nelson Lakes National Park behind this morning, traveling north to the coast. Enjoy the scenic, two-hour drive, arriving at seaside Kaiteriteri in time to enjoy lunch in the village before boarding the Sea Shuttle that will whisk you to New Zealand’s acclaimed Abel Tasman National Park. As you cruise, take in the marine vistas and marvel at the famous Split Apple Rock, a massive granite boulder cleaved in half over millennia by wind and water. You also pass Adele Island, home to a colony of fur seals, and numerous pristine beaches lapped by crystalline turquoise waters.
Disembark at either Medland’s Beach for a long option or Tonga Quarry to set off along the celebrated Abel Tasman Coast Track, heralded as one of New Zealand’s “Great Walks” by the Department of Conservation. This magnificent trail leads past rocky outcrops, quiet sheltered coves, and golden, palm-fringed beaches. You’ll arrive at your lodge late this afternoon. You may wish to head down to the beach for a swim or simply relax on your room’s private deck, perhaps pausing to chat with other walkers passing through. As the day draws to a close, the day-hikers leave and a hush falls over the lodge; you are among the lucky few to experience this magical place overnight.
The beauty of Abel Tasman is its shape-shifting character. Over millennia, tidal activity has sculpted the landscape, which has some of the largest tidal ranges in New Zealand. Park walks often involve crossing inlets, but only at low tide and when conditions allow. Rest assured that, with a flexible mindset and readiness to change course, your experience in this breathtaking region will be richly rewarding.
If you wish, you may join your guide on a four- to five-hour walk from your lodge to Totaranui. Your walk and return shuttle are timed to work with the tides. You depart the lodge with a packed lunch and traverse the Awaroa Inlet, lush with beech, rimu, and matai forest with sweeping views of the wilderness. Descend into Totaranui, passing giant rata trees in their clifftop habitats. Upon arrival at Totaranui’s National Park headquarters, peruse the informative exhibit on local ecology, and walk down to the beach for a swim. After time to relax, board the Sea Shuttle back to Awaroa. This afternoon, enjoy time on the nearby beach, or head out for some birdwatching in search of petrels, herons, or even penguins. Or seek out other wildlife in the Awaroa wetlands, perhaps deer or wild goats. Regroup with your fellow travelers for dinner together in the dining room of the Lodge.
This morning, “have a lie-in,” as the locals say, and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Once you’re ready for the day, spend an hour or so traversing the Sky Track Trail, a splendid loop walk open only to guests of the lodge. The path climbs about 300 feet above the inlet, affording breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and azure waters along the coastline.
In the late morning, walk five minutes from the lodge to the beach to catch the Sea Shuttle back to Kaiteriteri. From here, enjoy a scenic drive to Havelock, the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds. Before reaching Havelock, discover ancient rimu trees and enjoy expansive views of the Pelorus River on the Circle Loop Trail at the Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve. In the north of this spectacular coastal region, a vast expanse of sea-drowned valleys forms dozens of secluded bays, islands, and beaches. It’s an ideal place for exploration on foot. In the south, the undulating hills are blanketed with vineyards that produce some of New Zealand’s finest wines. Later, stop in for lunch at a riverside cafe and enjoy the laid-back vibration of the small, artistic community.
This afternoon, embark on a private cruiser and set off across shimmering waters to reach your lodge on Kenepuru Sound. About an hour later, arrive at Portage Bay and your home for the next two nights, with easy access to Kenepuru Sound from a private dock. Enjoy fresh-from-the-water seafood during dinner on your own this evening.
The Marlborough Sounds comprise one of New Zealand’s most fascinating playgrounds for outdoor lovers. And your lodge is ideally positioned for you to take full advantage of the surrounding beauty and invigorating activities. Join us for a final and unforgettable walk along portions of the 43-mile Queen Charlotte Track, one of New Zealand’s most remarkable walks.
After breakfast, embark a water taxi from the lodge’s dock to the start of your walk on the Queen Charlotte Track, traversing the ridgeline of hills that surround the sound. As you cruise, the captain enlightens you about greenshell mussels, a local delicacy. On foot, follow the Portage Track through native bush along rolling ascents and descents, marveling at magnificent views over the mirror-like water, reflecting the distant hills and sky. Your walk ends with a leisurely descent back to your hotel in Portage Bay, where you might hop on a paddleboard or kayak before the evening descends, both free for use by guests of the hotel.
Tonight, gather with your travel mates for dinner in the hotel’s dining room.
Optional – Centre of New Zealand Walk; 1 mile, easy
After breakfast, you travel to the town of Nelson, the oldest city on the South Island, where there will be time to explore on your own or walk to the hilltop “Centre of New Zealand,” which many believe is the nation’s geographic center. From the top, enjoy sweeping views of surrounding hills and the city of Nelson. You may also forgo the walk and opt to visit the iconic weekly Nelson markets that take place in town each Saturday morning. After lunch at one of the restaurants in town, you will be driven to the airport, arriving at approximately 12:30 p.m.
The Chateau on the Park is a resort-style hotel tucked between Hagley Park and the beautiful historic home and gardens of Mona Vale, just minutes from the center of Christchurch. Nestled in five acres (two hectares) of beautiful and tranquil gardens, the 193-room property offers a unique escape, seemingly a world away from city life. The hotel is not air conditioned but does offer WiFi throughout.
Located close to the village yet enveloped in its own pocket of peace and tranquility, Select Braemar Lodge & Spa offers outstanding views across the valley toward the mountains and alpine forests. Each of its 24 air-conditioned, open-plan suites—the largest in Hanmer Springs—features floor-to-ceiling windows and a private balcony. Some suites offer a private outdoor hot tub. During your stay, you might indulge in the services of Spa Braemar, from traditional and therapeutic body treatments to premium beauty therapies.
Alpine Lodge enjoys a pristine natural setting close to the northern shores of Lake Rotoiti. The property’s frontier-style took its inspiration from the surrounding mountains. Rooms are un-air conditioned and feature natural wood and large windows that look out into the open forest. This family-owned property is operated by the founder’s daughter and her husband, Alexandra and Leighton. Their restaurant proudly serves fresh, local cuisine.
This four-star wilderness lodge offers comfortable accommodation in a pristine setting within Abel Tasman National Park. Contemporary design and comfort are combined with sustainable practices and local building products in the un-air conditioned guest rooms and throughout the grounds. The restaurant and café offer organic fare, much of it from the lodge’s garden or sourced from nearby providers.
Conveniently located amid the rustic landscape of Portage Bay, this boutique, casual accommodation offers guaranteed ocean-view rooms with stunning views of Marlborough Sounds. Rooms are intentionally designed without TVs, WiFi connections, or air conditioning to give you the opportunity to unplug and rediscover nature. And with a private water taxi dock readily available, invigorating activities are right outside your door.
The Rutherford Hotel Nelson offers comfortable hotel accommodation with a full range of superior guest facilities with in-room WiFi and air conditioning, as well as two restaurants, a café, and a location only a few minutes’ walk from Nelson’s main shopping district and landmark cathedral.
Start off your first day in Queenstown right by having a Country Walkers representative greet you at the airport. A complimentary car service will whisk you to your centrally located hotel. From here, you are perfectly positioned to explore this charming city at your leisure.
After a delicious included breakfast at your hotel, you are free to explore on your own, using our included city information to guide your discoveries.
After a delicious included breakfast at your hotel, you are free to explore on your own, using our included city information to guide your discoveries.
After breakfast, complimentary transportation is provided from your Queenstown hotel to the Queenstown Airport based on the departure time for your flight to Christchurch. A representative from Queenstown Taxis will meet you in the lobby of your hotel and assist with your transportation.
Upon arrival at Christchurch Airport, gather your luggage and exit baggage claim to look for a representative holding a Country Walkers sign. Enjoy a complimentary shuttle to the Chateau on the Park, about 15-20 minutes away. The shuttle is provided by SuperShuttle.
Expect to meet your airport arrival representative or shuttle driver within 45 minutes of your on-time arrival. If you have not met our representative by that time, or you will be delayed with lost luggage, please contact Redpoint +1.415.481.0725. They will contact our transportation service on your behalf.
If you have customized your VBT booked itinerary and don’t have a flight arriving on this day—or if you have purchased your own flights—then VBT has not arranged your transportation, and you will need to make your own arrangements to get to your hotel.
Please note that your hotel room may not be available until 2:00 p.m.; however, you may store your luggage at the reception desk.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure—perhaps explore the city, rest up in the hotel, or select a local restaurant for lunch and dinner. We provide detailed city information to help you plan your day.
The Heritage Hotel Queenstown is a ski lodge-style building constructed from stone and cedar. It stands proud above the shores of Lake Wakatipu, with views of the majestic Remarkables Mountain Range. Well-appointed rooms include amenities such as WiFi and air conditioning. The main lodge building holds leisure facilities and a bar and restaurant, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Start off your first day in Queenstown right by having a Country Walkers representative greet you at the airport. A complimentary car service will whisk you to your centrally located hotel. From here, you are perfectly positioned to explore this charming city at your leisure.
After a delicious included breakfast at your hotel, you are free to explore on your own, using our included city information to guide your discoveries.
After a delicious included breakfast at your hotel, you are free to explore on your own, using our included city information to guide your discoveries.
After breakfast, complimentary transportation is provided from your Queenstown hotel to the Queenstown Airport based on the departure time for your flight to Christchurch. A representative from Queenstown Taxis will meet you in the lobby of your hotel and assist with your transportation.
Upon arrival at Christchurch Airport, gather your luggage and exit baggage claim to look for a representative holding a Country Walkers sign. Enjoy a complimentary shuttle to the Chateau on the Park, about 15-20 minutes away.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure—perhaps explore the city, rest up in the hotel, or select a local restaurant for lunch and dinner. We provide detailed city information to help you plan your day.
The Heritage Hotel Queenstown is a ski lodge-style building constructed from stone and cedar. It stands proud above the shores of Lake Wakatipu, with views of the majestic Remarkables Mountain Range. Well-appointed rooms include amenities such as WiFi and air conditioning. The main lodge building holds leisure facilities and a bar and restaurant, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Mark and Sarah were the best guides. We did amazing scenic walks, learned a lot about the Maori culture and even learned some Maori words. This was one of the best Country Walkers tours we have done (our 10th we believe). Our group was outstanding and we bonded and had fun. Both the Abel Tasman and the Queen Charlotte Track are parts of the world no one, who likes nature and active travel, should miss.
Joan, Colorado
New Zealand: The South Island
New Zealand is the most beautiful place in the world. At least, that is the conclusion my wife and I reached during our wonderful Country Walkers trip to the South Island. Among other delights, we were treated to a wondrous mix of mountain and water scenery on the Queen Charlotte Track in Marlborough Sounds and fern jungles along along the coastal trails of Abel Tasman National Park. The walking was never too demanding but there was scope to do more for those of us willing to take it on. Our guides, Mark and Sarah, were absolutely superb. Our hotels and food were first rate. We have done a number of these trips now and loved them all. But I have to say this was the best.
New Zealand: The South Island
Expert Local Leaders
Experience your destination like an insider with people who call it home.
Sarah Inglewood
After spending her youth exploring the far corners of the globe, with travel to 90 countries and 6 continents, Sarah Inglewood returned to New Zealand to work as an emergency responder and as part of the police search and rescue team. After spending time working in outdoor education, her passion for the outdoors inspired a move to guiding, where she loves sharing adventures in her beautiful homeland.
Mark Brinsden
Mark Brinsden is an avid adventurer and outdoor enthusiast. He has a diverse background having worked in financial markets and bioscience but it is in tourism where his passion lies. A proud ambassador for all things Kiwi, he enjoys nothing more than sharing the wonders of his home country with fellow travelers and visitors from the world over.
David Mangnall
With over 30 years of experience working in outdoor education, David is an expert when it comes to New Zealand’s stunning natural landscape. With diplomas in both teaching and outdoor and environmental education, David has an exceptional talent for educating travellers about New Zealand’s remarkable landscape.
With his wealth of experience, including eight years on the management team at Outward Bound New Zealand, David serves an assessor for the New Zealand Outdoor Instructor’s Association in the areas of Bush and Sea Kayak qualifications. He is rated “Technical Expert” for sea kayaking, ropes courses and zip line, coasteering and tramping-and holds a New Zealand Certificate in Outdoor Leadership.
In his spare time, David enjoys tramping, mountain biking, bike packing, and skiing adventures, as well as participating in orienteering events.
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Terrain Description for New Zealand: The South Island
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