7 Day Queen Charlotte Sounds and Abel Tasman Guided Hiking Tour

The journey begins with an 8 AM pickup from a central location in Christchurch, followed by a scenic 2.5-hour drive north to Kaikoura. Upon arrival, take a walk along the cliff tops of the Kaikoura Peninsula, where sweeping views of the mountains and sea provide the perfect introduction to the trip. Keep an eye out for seals and seabirds along the way.

Continuing up the east coast, a further two-hour drive brings us to Picton, the gateway to the stunning Marlborough Sounds. There’s time to explore the town, wander around the marina, or take a short bush walk before gathering for our first group dinner. The night is spent in Picton, where we settle in for the next two nights.

An early start takes us on an 8 AM cruise through the Marlborough Sounds, reaching the remote and peaceful Motuara Island. This bird sanctuary comes alive with morning birdsong, offering a chance to spot native penguins, tui, bellbirds, saddlebacks, and yellow-crowned parakeets. A short walk leads to a lookout point with sweeping 360-degree views before we return to the boat for the next leg of the journey.

Crossing to Resolution Bay, we step onto the Queen Charlotte Track, following a gentle climb through lush native forest and an old bridle path. The route winds over Tawa Saddle to reach Endeavour Inlet, where an information panel and lookout provide a perfect place to rest and take in the views. The final stretch leads through tree ferns and along the vivid blue coastline before reaching Furneaux Lodge. There’s time for a quick swim or refreshments before catching a late afternoon water taxi back to Picton for another overnight stay.

The day begins with breakfast before packing an overnight bag, which is transported by boat while the rest of our gear stays on the bus. A short water taxi ride from Picton takes us across Queen Charlotte Sound to Torea Bay, where today’s scenic walk begins. The track climbs gently from the bay to a saddle before weaving through manuka bush along a ridgeline, revealing sweeping views of the vivid blue sea, secluded bays, and forested shorelines. At the highest point, breathtaking panoramas stretch in every direction before the descent into Lochmara Bay.

Lochmara Lodge, a secluded retreat accessible only by foot, bike, or boat, offers the perfect place to unwind for the rest of the afternoon. Relax in a hammock, paddle through the calm waters in a kayak, swim, or explore the surrounding bush walks. The lodge also features an underwater observatory (own expense), art exhibition spaces, and a glowworm grotto that comes to life after dark.

The morning begins with a relaxed breakfast, leaving time to enjoy more of the peaceful surroundings at Lochmara Lodge. At 11 AM, a water taxi takes us back to Picton, where we board our vehicle for the drive to Nelson. Along the way, there’s an opportunity to take a short walk to The Centre of New Zealand, a scenic lookout offering panoramic views over the city and Tasman Bay.

The final stretch of the journey leads to Motueka, a charming town known for its lively café culture and artistic community. This will be home for the next two nights, providing a comfortable base for exploring the nearby coastal landscapes.

The day begins with a drive to Marahau, the gateway to the famous Abel Tasman Track. A half-day hike along the well-formed walkway leads into Anchorage, passing through sheltered bays and golden sand beaches along the way. Around midday, a picnic lunch is enjoyed overlooking Torrent Bay, providing a peaceful break before the next adventure.

In the afternoon, a catamaran cruise takes us on a scenic sail around the coastline, offering a unique perspective of the park’s rugged beauty. Before returning to Motueka, there’s time to relax at Kaiteriteri Beach, with the option for a swim or a sunset stroll along its golden sands.

A short one-hour drive inland brings us to Nelson Lakes National Park, home to stunning alpine landscapes and pristine wilderness. At St Arnaud, there’s a choice between two walks: a gentle two-hour loop through the Lake Rotoiti Nature Recovery area or a more challenging five-hour circuit up the slopes of Mt Roberts.

The longer hike climbs steeply to the bushline, revealing breathtaking views over Lake Rotoiti and the St Arnaud Range, before looping back to the starting point. With its towering peaks and native forest, this area offers a truly unforgettable mountain experience.

The morning starts with an optional bush walk, offering early risers the chance to experience the dawn chorus as native birdlife thrives in Nelson Lakes National Park. After breakfast, the journey continues through the spectacular Buller Gorge and Lewis Pass, leading to the alpine resort town of Hanmer Springs.

There’s time to enjoy a short forest walk, soak in the thermal hot pools (own expense), or explore the town’s charming cafés and shops. By late afternoon, we head back to Christchurch, with drop-off in the city centre around 6 PM.