Ultimate New Zealand Hiking Tour

The day begins with a 7am meet-up at the Sky Tower in central Auckland before heading south towards Rotorua. We'll stop at a café en route—a welcome chance to refuel if you missed breakfast.

Rotorua is one of New Zealand’s most famous geothermal destinations, known for its steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and picturesque lakes. This area also holds deep cultural significance, with strong links to Māori heritage and early European settlement. A highlight of the region’s history is the dramatic 1886 eruption of Mount Tarawera, which buried the Māori village of Te Wairoa.

Our journey continues to Lake Tarawera, where we take a midday water taxi to reach the central section of the trail. From here, the walking track follows the edge of the lake, weaving through native bush and beneath towering tree ferns. The trail offers scenic views of surrounding volcanoes, lush forest, and the sparkling lake. Keep an eye out for secluded pumice beaches—perfect for a refreshing swim.

In the evening, we settle into a rustic, open-plan log cabin that’s full of character. It’s the ideal spot to unwind, prepare dinner together, and share stories with fellow travellers. Later that night, or the following morning, we’ll get our gear organised and backpacks packed in preparation for the next stage—a rainforest hike through some of New Zealand’s most untouched wilderness.

• Includes lunch and dinner
• 3 hours hiking
• Elevation +480 m (15 ft) -380 m (1,200 ft)
  
  

A leisurely start after packing all our kit and driving east, into the rugged forest ranges of Te Urewera. This is the traditional home of the Tūhoe (Māori tribe) and one of the last places to have been reached by European settlers.

After about 2 hours of driving (picnic lunch on the way) minimum, we reach the Whirinaki Forest trail. This is a preserved remnant of the vast forests believed to have covered the supercontinent of Gondwanaland more than 150 million years ago. Our first hike is an easy one, on a descending track through native beech forest, to a simple forest hut beside the stunning Whirinaki River. We cook up our meal together and either stay in the hut or camp nearby with an evening campfire and time to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

• Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• 3.5 hours hiking
• Elevation +450 m (1,400 ft) -750 m (2,450 ft)
  

This morning, our journey continues down the valley track. This wilderness is a hidden gem, far from the tourist crowds, so encounters with others are rare. Instead, we often have the privilege of spotting elusive blue ducks, robins, and hearing the distinctive call of the kaka, a large bush parrot.

As we descend further into the valley, our path leads us beneath towering tree ferns and through some of New Zealand’s most magnificent podocarp rainforest trees. For those who seek a little extra adventure, there’s an opportunity to explore a side track leading to an area of ancient rata forest.

A 20-minute drive takes us to a cabins on a nearby rural property. Here you can enjoy a warm shower and unwind by the fire pit, sipping on a beer or wine.

• Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• 5 hours hiking
• Elevation +430 m (1,400 ft) -650 m (2,100 ft)
  
  

We start the day with a drive to the Volcanic Plateau and its myriad natural wonders. Explore an extraordinary thermal park, bathe in a natural hot river and view the impressive Huka Falls. Feel the spray here as the mighty Waikato River, New Zealand’s longest, plunges 11 metres into a stadium-like pool.

Later we arrive at Lake Taupō, the largest lake in New Zealand. Incredibly, this 600 square kilometre crater lake was formed in 186AD by the most powerful volcanic explosion in recorded history

At Taupō, we grab our takeaway food and head to a lovely lake-side spot. Here we can relax on the unusual pumice beach and in summer enjoy an evening swim before continuing to our lodge accommodation near Whakapapa Village, Tongariro National Park.

• Includes breakfast and lunch.
• 1.5 hours hiking
• Elevation +/-55 m (180 ft)
  
  

Tongariro National Park is the oldest National Park in New Zealand and the fourth oldest in the world. In 1993, the park became a UNESCO mixed cultural and natural World Heritage Site.

Join the guide today for a full-day hike of the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, regarded as one of the finest day walks in the world. The well-built track climbs, steeply at times, to the craters of Mt Tongariro. The next few hours of hiking takes us through an unforgettable wonderland of lava valleys, steaming craters and emerald lakes before our descent through bonsai like alpine foliage alongside mineral-infused streams. After what is often a long and physically challenging day, enjoy a well earned dinner. Includes breakfast and lunch.

Accommodation: 

Located in Whakapapa Village at the foot of Mount Ruapehu, Skotel Alpine Resort offers a friendly informal atmosphere. Stay in the comfy Backpacker rooms, twin and sometimes triple share. Sheets and towels are provided, and bathroom and kitchen facilities are communal.

Or The Park Hotel in the nearby National Park town, twin and sometimes triple person share, ensuite rooms. Sheets and towels are provided.

• Includes breakfast and lunch
• 7-8 hour hiking
• Elevation +900 m (3,000 ft) -1,250 m (4,100 ft)
  

After yesterday’s big effort, we enjoy a slower-paced morning. An hour’s drive then takes us around to the east side of the park and the Desert Road, where we begin today’s walk. This lesser-travelled route offers expansive open views and gives us a fresh perspective of Tongariro’s Volcanic Plateau.

Wander through tussock country and pockets of beech forest before reaching our overnight stop, the simple but modern Waihohonu Hut. Set beside a quiet stream, there are great volcano-views from the spacious common room and some fantastic short exploring options available. Evening provides an opportunity to share the hut with hikers from all over the world. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Accommodation:

Waihohonu Hut is a modern 28-bunk Department of Conservation hut located on the Tongariro Northern Circuit Great Walk. Facilities are basic but comfortable, with bunk beds, mattresses, wood stove, common room and toilets. We often camp at the adjacent campsite but use the huts facilities.

• Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner
• 6 hours hiking
• Elevation +/-150 m (500 ft)

Leaving Waihohonu Hut, we hike up through mountain beech forest before following a route up and over old glacial moraine ridges. Skirting lava-filled valleys we finally traverse across dry scoria valleys to a stunning viewpoint over an alpine lake.

After a picnic lunch, we sidle above the lake before gradually descending over rolling tussock grasslands towards Whakapapa Village. By late afternoon we’re back at the road end. A short drive takes us to our lodge, ready for a hot shower and a relaxed evening. We share a celebratory meal on our last night together. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Accommodation:

We stay close to the national park in a private lodge/motel, twin and sometimes triple share. Bathroom and kitchen facilities are communal.

• Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• 6-7 hours hiking
• Elevation +/-350 m (1,150 ft)

Driving south, we leave the volcanoes to descend through the beautiful river valleys of the Rangitikei and along the coast to Wellington, where we arrive mid-afternoon after a café stop to break the journey. Trenched in wild geography, Wellington is so much more than just New Zealand’s capital; It is also the nation’s stylish hub for arts, culture, cafés and politics. We bet you will love this wee city!

Hit the streets and find a great eatery - plenty of online recommendations out there. Your guide and bus heads north this evening.

Includes breakfast.

Enclosed by hills and a harbour, this compact city has many attractions within easy walking distance. Check out the vibrant city centre with museums, theatres, galleries and boutiques. It has been said that this pedestrian friendly city has more bars and restaurants per capita than New York and feels a bit like San Francisco. Take some time to soak in the creative vibes and check out the great craft beer and café scene during your visit. There are also some lovely city-bush-garden-hill top walks you can enjoy.

Craft the day to suit you; the National Museum of New Zealand (Te Papa), watching the political shenanigans of the ‘Beehive’ (Parliament House), bus-out to the wild south coast with views to the South Island, visit Weta workshops (book in advance to avoid any Orc-ward moments), the Maritime museum and the truly remarkable almost-in-the-city ecological restoration project ‘Zealandia’.

Regroup at reception to meet the shuttle to the airport for the short flight across Cook Strait to Nelson and the South Island. (Note: the transfer from Wellington accommodation to Nelson Airport is without a guide). You’ll be met by your South Island guide at Nelson Airport, introduced to those joining the Ultimate South Island tour and head out of town around picturesque Tasman Bay to Kaiteriteri, the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park.

Your guide will advise you on how to pack light and smart as we ready ourselves for our next adventure - a two-night stay in the park. A boat cruise around the coast takes us to the beautiful Tonga Quarry. Enjoy a snack on the idyllic beach before starting our hike, following the Abel Tasman Coast Track south to Bark Bay where our tents and some gear were dropped by the boat.

We pitch our tents and enjoy a delicious meal together before later falling asleep to the sound of waves lapping the shore.

• Includes lunch and dinner.
• 1.5-2 hours hiking
• Elevation +/-300 m (980 ft)
  
  

After a relaxed breakfast our departure from Bark Bay takes us through contrasting stands of manuka and luxuriant mixed forest, over a low saddle and across a high and airy suspension bridge above the Falls River.

Views open up to golden sand beaches on the descent to Torrent Bay where your guide may talk you into taking a side trip up to the Falls River cascades, a stunning swimming spot, or to Cleopatra’s Pool, a must do and the perfect place for a refreshing swim. If you are feeling nimble you can join the guide for a boulder hop further up the valley here exploring idyllic pools and waterfalls.

We camp tonight at the bush-fringed and bright blue inlet of Anchorage. Relax, read a book and go for a swim before meeting in the evening to cook and eat together.

• Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• 4 hours hiking
• Elevation +/-700 m (2,300 ft)
  

It’s time to hit the water and explore the Abel Tasman’s magical coastline by waka (Māori canoe).* After a short water taxi ride, you’ll meet your waka guide for a traditional karakia (blessing) and learn the etiquette of joining a waka team. Then it’s time to climb aboard and paddle. Depending on conditions, explore several coves on the mainland and the wildlife refuge of Adele Island to observe a breeding colony of New Zealand fur seals – beautiful animals that were almost hunted to extinction in the 1800s. Along the way be enlightened by stories of local Māori history and customs. Paddle into the beautiful Kaiteriteri beach at around midday, to reunite with your Hiking New Zealand guide waiting with the backpacks.

After a picnic lunch and a restock on supplies in Motueka we drive south to a private campsite near Murchison, overlooking the confluence of the Buller and Maruia rivers. Enjoy an organic meal that is home-cooked by our hosts. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

*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 our first stop and experience of the wild West Coast is at Charleston. We take a short hike through lush West Coast bush checking out the dramatic headlands, wild waves and secluded bays.

Afterwards enjoy a picnic lunch and pack up for our next hike that takes us up a spectacular limestone river canyon in Paparoa National Park. Established in 1987, this park covers more than 30,000 hectares. Its attractions include mountains, canyons, caves, rivers, wilderness areas and coastlines. The first half of the trail is on a relatively flat well-formed track, while the second half involves multiple river crossings and sections where the riverbed itself is our route. Some boulders here can be slippery and good hiking shoes or boots are essential. Learn from your guide how to cross rivers safely, supporting each other by linking arms. We collect firewood along the way and set up camp under the massive Ballroom Overhang, a fluviatile cave.

For those that are keen on more hiking, join the guide and explore up a beautiful side canyon following the stream until it disappears into a cave.

• Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• 2.5-3 hours hiking
• Elevation +300 m (980 ft) -220 m (720 ft)
  
  

We hike back out through the canyon this morning after a leisurely start and head first to Punakaiki to check out the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes. Then it’s down the coast to tonight’s accommodation in Hokitika. A thriving goldrush town in the 1870s, it is now a great place to buy pounamu (greenstone), which was highly valued by early Māori for tools, jewellery and weapons.

Tonight’s lodge accommodation is centrally located and just a short distance from the beach. Tuck into traditional Kiwi fish and chips on the beach or eat at one of the many cafés in this bustling little seaside town. On arrival in Hokitika, we get fitted out with bikes for tomorrow’s ride. Includes breakfast and lunch.

• Includes breakfast and lunch.
• 2.5 hours hiking
• Elevation +200 m (660 ft) -280 m (920 ft)
  

Before meeting as a group grab breakfast at one of the great cafés in town. Today you get to cycle the stunning West Coast Wilderness Trail between the Arahura River bridge and the historic township of Kumara.

Pedal your way through majestic native forest, cross crystal-clear rivers, and pass old reservoirs and water races which date back to the goldrush days. Today’s ride is unguided, but the trail is very well marked, and our local partners will give you a very thorough briefing on riding the trail. The thoughtfully restored Theatre Royal Hotel in Kumara is the perfect place to celebrate our ride with a drink.

After the ride sit back and enjoy the mountain and rainforest landscapes as we turn east to drive into the Southern Alps and stay in the quaint mountain village of Arthur’s Pass. Lodgings tonight are at a private hut with showers and electricity. We prepare dinner together and get ready for tomorrow’s hiking adventure into Edwards Valley.

• Includes lunch and dinner
• 4 hours biking, elevation +610 m (2,000 ft) -670 m (2,200 ft)
  
  

While not as well-known as some of the other National Parks visited on the tour, Arthur’s Pass will awe you with its rugged peaks, wild rivers and adventurous hiking trails. Our overnight hike takes us up the Edwards River to the Edwards Hut which sits just above the bushline with a great view up this beautiful alpine valley.*

It is a challenging hike on a real ‘kiwi-style’ track. There are several river crossings and parts where you will need to use your hands for extra grip as the trail is rugged with steep slippery sections.

We either camp or stay in the hut depending on how many other hikers are there. At nightfall listen out for the distinct call of our national bird, the kiwi. Roroa or great spot ted kiwi are known to inhabit this area.

• Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner
• 4-5 hours hiking, elevation +640 m (2,100 ft) -210 m (690 ft)

*Most departures will have two guides for this hike.

Make the most of being in this wonderfully remote alpine valley by joining an optional hike this morning to explore further up towards Falling Mountain, where the views of the surrounding peaks open up even more. After returning to the hut we pack up and hike back out to the road having lunch along the way.

Heading east away from the divide the scenery changes dramatically with the steep forested slopes of the west replaced with wide braided rivers, tussock grassland, mountains flanked with scree and the surreal limestone formations of Castle Hill.

We leave the main highway following an inland route past Lake Lyndon, through Rakaia Gorge and on to the village of Methven where we stay overnight.

• Includes breakfast and lunch
• 4-5 hours hiking, elevation +210 m (690 ft) -640 m (2,100 ft)
  
  

We spend the morning driving along the western margin of the Canterbury Plains and into the stunningly beautiful Mackenzie Country, an intermontane basin of huge glacial lakes and snow-capped mountains.

By late morning we arrive at Aoraki/Mt Cook village ready to maximise our afternoon with a hike with daypacks up to Sealy Tarns and possibly as far as Mueller Hut. Enjoy views across two valley glaciers to icefalls on Mount Sefton and Aoraki/Mt Cook. Towering moraine walls, glacial lakes and the frequent rumbling of distant avalanches are reminders of nature’s sheer power in this dynamic landscape.

We return via the same track to our accommodation at a private hut, in awe of our position in the heart of the Southern Alps, surrounded by mountains of such commanding presence. With luck, we can watch the summit of Aoraki/Mt Cook turn from white to pink with the sun’s last rays.

• Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• 6 hours hiking
• Elevation +/-1,180 m (3,870 ft)
  

Start the day with a relaxed breakfast, enjoying postcard-perfect views of Aoraki/Mount Cook from the dining room window.

Today offers the optional adventure of a guided heli-hike on the Tasman Glacier (extra cost). A scenic helicopter flight takes you onto the upper glacier, where you'll strap on crampons to explore ice caves, blue crevasses, and towering ice formations, surrounded by the dramatic glacial landscape.

For those skipping the heli-hike, there are several options. Join your guide for a steep hike up Sebastopol to the Red Tarns, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Alternatively, take it easy with a valley floor walk, visit the information centre, or set off independently on the Hooker Valley Track (3 hours, 10 km), which winds gently up the valley floor to the Hooker Glacier Lake, crossing three suspension bridges along the way.

By mid-afternoon, we reunite with the heli-hikers and travel south through Mackenzie Country, crossing Lindis Pass into Central Otago. We spend the night near the shores of Lake Hāwea, a glacial lake stretching over 35 km and ringed by mountains. Tonight, relax and dine at a local restaurant—the perfect way to end the day..

• Includes breakfast and lunch.
• 2 hours hiking, elevation +/-380 m (1,250 ft)
• Optional extra hike:
  • 10.2 km (6.3 miles)
  • 3 hours hiking, elevation +/-270 m (890 ft)

We start the day with a visit to Wānaka, a vibrant lakeside resort town, where there’s time to grab a coffee and explore the shops or lakefront views. From here, we continue up the Matukituki Valley, surrounded by towering peaks, to the road end, where we shoulder overnight packs and set off on a scenic hike across grassy flats to Aspiring Hut. Along the way, catch glimpses of the Matterhorn-like Mt Aspiring (3033m) framed by dramatic alpine ridges.

For those seeking a challenge, there’s an optional climb this afternoon on the Cascade Saddle Track—a steep but rewarding route through beech forest to the bush line. From here, enjoy breathtaking views across the upper Matukituki Valley to Mt Aspiring. Keep an eye out for kea, New Zealand’s cheeky alpine parrots, who may stop by to investigate the group.

• Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner
• 2.5 hours hiking, elevation +200 m (660 ft) -110 m (360 ft)

*Optional extra hike:

• 4.9 km (3 miles)
• 3 hours hiking
• Elevation +/-710 m (2,330 ft)
  
  

We begin the day with an early hike back through the glacially carved Matukituki Valley, enjoying scenic views and easy walking along the valley floor. Once back in Wānaka, we recharge with a lakeside picnic, and for those feeling adventurous, there’s time for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wānaka.

In the afternoon, we embark on a spectacular drive over the Crown Range, taking in breathtaking summit views of the Wakatipu Basin and surrounding lakes. By late afternoon, we pass through Te Anau and continue towards the world-famous Milford Sound. Our base for the next two nights is the beautiful Eglinton Valley campsite, where we can relax, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and make the most of the hot showers after an action-packed day.

• Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner
• 2.5 hours hiking
• Elevation +110 m (360 ft) -200 m (660 ft)
  
  

This morning, we drive beneath towering granite cliffs and past hanging valleys as we enter the heart of Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest national parks in the world. With its vast glacial lakes—Te Anau and Manapouri—and dramatic fiords, this region is a true natural wonder.

By mid-morning, we arrive at Milford Sound and board a day-cruise to explore one of the world’s most spectacular fiords. The journey to Anita Bay and the sound’s entrance offers stunning views of cascading waterfalls, including the iconic Mitre Peak, which rises 1,722 metres above the sea. Keep watch for dolphins, Fiordland crested penguins, and New Zealand fur seals often seen playing near the boat. (Kayaking is available as an optional extra—please advise at the time of booking as spaces are limited.)

In the afternoon, we return towards Eglinton Valley and stop to hike the Key Summit Track, the final section of the famous Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. This informative nature walk transitions through forest to alpine vegetation, offering panoramic views over the Hollyford Valley and the Darran Mountains, along with prolific birdlife.

• Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner
• 2-hour cruise (or Milford kayaking option)*
• 3 hours hiking, elevation +/-490 m (1,610 ft)

After breakfast, we take a short hike to a picturesque waterfall near our campsite—a perfect spot to soak up the last moments of Fiordland’s beauty. For those feeling adventurous, a refreshing shower under the cascading water offers a bracing start to the day.

We then go on our final drive to Queenstown, arriving by early afternoon. With our lodge located near the town centre, the rest of the day is yours to explore. Relax by the lakefront, browse the shops, or simply unwind after two incredible weeks of adventures. In the evening, we gather as a group for a celebratory dinner—the perfect way to reflect on the memorable hikes and experiences we’ve shared.

• Includes breakfast and lunch
• 45 minutes hiking
  

Your guide departs early this morning, marking the end of the tour. For those staying on in Queenstown, you will be spoilt for choice with adventure activities to try. Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand and is surrounded by stunning landscapes with superb hiking and cycling tracks. Don’t hesitate to ask one of our helpful team for tips on great hikes to do in the area at the conclusion of your trip.