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All the Travel Info You Need, All in One Place

Planning a trip to New Zealand? Our Frequently Asked Questions page covers everything from booking tours and transport options to what to pack and when to visit. It’s your go-to guide for clear, reliable answers that help take the stress out of organising your holiday. Whether you're travelling solo, as a couple, or with a group, you'll find helpful tips to make your Kiwi adventure run smoothly.

Minimum age for Hiking new Zealand trips is 16 years. Signed parental consent is required for anyone under the age of 18 years, that is travelling unaccompanied.

Expect to join a small crew of up to 11 fellow adventurers, bringing together a diverse mix of ages, backgrounds, and nationalities. While the majority of our hikers are spirited souls aged between 20 and 40, our groups often welcome individuals ranging from 17 all the way up to 72 years old. Typically, our groups are balanced with an equal mix of women and men, all united by their passion for the great outdoors and a deep reverence for nature. This blend of perspectives enriches the experience, making each trip truly one-of-a-kind.

The minimum age requirement is 16 years. Any person under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. 

Yes, we cater to various dietary needs. Please inform us when booking.

We hike together, with frequent breaks for snacks and lunch. Optional activities are available if you’d like to rest.

Yes, the tour can be split:

Northern Portion (first 5 days)

Southern Slice (last 10 days)

Luggage travels in the vehicle and lockable trailer, accessible except while hiking.

Allowance: 120 litres per person (one large soft duffel + day pack).

Wellington to Nelson flight: 23kg checked, 7kg carry-on.

Excess luggage may need to be forwarded at your cost if over the limit.

New Zealand’s weather is unpredictable, especially in mountainous areas. Be ready for both warm (26–28°C) and cool conditions.

Yes, most accommodations have laundry facilities. Quick-drying clothes and extra socks/underwear are recommended.

They are approximate and may be adjusted by the guide due to weather or track conditions. Changes will be communicated in advance.

• Explore adventure activities like jet boat rides, New Zealand’s highest bungy, or a peaceful paddle on an inflatable funyak.

• Access iconic Great Walks, including the Hollyford Track in Fiordland National Park.

• Visit the stunning Milford Sound, a half-day drive away, with steep cliffs and lush rainforests best explored by boat.

• Let us assist with planning additional activities to enhance your New Zealand adventure.

Wellington offers a vibrant city centre with museums, theatres, galleries and boutiques.

Yes, everyone contributes to tasks like gathering firewood and setting up camp. It’s a fun way to bond with fellow travellers and share the adventure, with the guide and group always there to assist.

Absolutely! Many participants travel solo, while others come with friends or partners. Our tours foster a shared love of hiking and the outdoors, creating lasting connections.

Keep valuables in your hiking pack, stored in waterproof bags to ensure they stay dry.

Vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets are accommodated. Let us know your needs when booking. For complex requirements, you may need to assist with meal planning and preparation. Bringing some of your own food is also recommended.

Yes, at accommodations with electricity (available 2–3 times per trip). A vehicle adapter may also allow charging while driving.

A 3-season sleeping bag with a suitable temperature rating is essential, even in summer. You can hire one from us if needed.

The cycling trail is graded easy to intermediate, with wide paths and occasional steep sections (you can walk these). E-bike upgrades are available for an extra cost. Alternatively, you can skip cycling and enjoy a rest morning in Hokitika.

Absolutely! The Ultimate North Island is designed to pair seamlessly with the Ultimate South Island, creating a complete adventure known as the Ultimate New Zealand.

  • Accommodation Types:
    • Wild Nights: Stay in backcountry huts or camp in remote locations, often hours from the nearest road.
    • Civilisation Nights: Stay in cabins, lodges, or campsites accessible by vehicle.
  • Huts:
    • Equipped with mattresses, running water, and outdoor toilets.
    • Cooking is done on portable stoves.
    • Shared with other hikers, with the option to camp nearby.
  • Lodges:
    • Near hike start or end points.
    • Multi-share or twin/double rooms with shared bathrooms.
  • Camping:
    • “Wild nights” include camping under rock shelters, on beaches, or under the stars.
    • Non-wild nights are at campsites near vehicles, with alternatives sought in bad weather.
  • Cabins/Cribs:
    • Private cabins or summer houses offer an authentic Kiwi experience.
    • Tent setup available for privacy.
  • Facilities:
    • Wild nights: Pit toilets, rivers/lakes for washing, and occasional natural hot pools.
    • Civilisation nights: Showers, laundry facilities, and home comforts.
  • Note: Accommodation is subject to availability, and equivalent options may be substituted.
  • Essential Items:
    • Hiking boots/shoes, 50L backpack with liner, and a 3-season sleeping bag.
    • Waterproof raincoat, 2 warm fleece/wool jerseys, quick-dry hiking shorts, and shirts.
    • Thermal underwear (top & bottom), 3 pairs of socks, a warm hat, and gloves/mittens.
    • Sunscreen, sunglasses, a 1L water bottle, spare lightweight shoes/sandals, and a flashlight/headlamp.
    • Insect repellent, casual clothing, small daypack, swimming costume, and a lightweight towel.
    • Personal toiletries, medications, and a first aid kit.
  • Optional Items: Gaiters, binoculars, earplugs, and walking poles.
  • Provided by Us: Sleeping mats, tents, cooking gear, plates/cutlery, first aid kits, safety equipment, and maps.
  • Luggage Allowance:
    • Up to 120L per person (large pack + daypack).
    • Excess luggage may need to be forwarded; non-hiking gear can be locked in the trailer.
    • Travel insurance is recommended.
  • Special Note (Ultimate New Zealand): Flights between Wellington and Nelson allow 23kg checked luggage and 7kg carry-on.

This tour features a selection of high-quality hotels and lodges, carefully chosen for their excellent standards and stunning locations. All rooms include ensuite bathrooms for added comfort. Some lodges offer units with two bedrooms, providing a mix of twin-share and double room options.

Solo travellers will be paired in a twin-share room with another guest of the same gender, while single supplements are available for those who prefer their own space.

Designed for travellers who value comfortable accommodation after a rewarding day of hiking, this tour ensures a relaxing stay. Please note that accommodation is subject to availability, and similar alternatives may be provided if the advertised properties are no longer available.

New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable, with cold conditions possible year-round, especially in mountainous areas. We recommend wearing lightweight, breathable fabrics for hiking. Merino wool or polypropylene base layers are ideal as they provide warmth even when wet, unlike cotton. Jeans are not suitable for hiking.

Essential Items:

  • Sturdy hiking boots or shoes
  • Day pack
  • Waterproof raincoat (Gore-Tex or similar)
  • Warm fleece or wool jersey (avoid cotton)
  • Quick-dry shorts or lightweight hiking trousers
  • Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
  • Long-sleeve shirt for sun protection
  • At least four pairs of socks
  • Warm hat
  • Sun hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
  • 1-litre water bottle
  • Spare shoes or sandals
  • Insect repellent
  • Quick-dry short-sleeved shirts
  • Casual clothing for travel and evenings
  • Gloves or mittens
  • Swimwear

Recommended Items:

  • Walking poles
  • Camera
  • Waterproof rain trousers

What We Provide:

  • First aid kit
  • Drinking water
  • Safety equipment
  • Maps

Luggage Allowance:
For flights between Wellington and Nelson (New Zealand Uncut only), the checked luggage allowance is 23 kg per person, with a carry-on limit of 7 kg.

Packing layers is the best way to stay prepared for changing weather conditions.

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