NEW ADVENTURE! From the mountains to the sea, come explore nature’s amazing wonderland on the northern part of the South Island

New Zealand is, quite simply, a stunningly gorgeous and diverse country. On the itinerary for this popular adventure, you’ll wake up each day to see another incredible aspect of the country’s natural landscapes—from sounds to rainforest, from ocean to lakes. There’s a lot to see, and seeing it all on foot and by sea kayak is the best way! New Zealanders are proud of the natural beauty of their “clean and green” land, and they’ve equipped the backcountry with some of the world’s most glorious hiking trails. You’ll begin with a day in Blenheim, the center of New Zealand’s burgeoning wine industry, then head up to the quaint harbor town of Picton to go tramping (Kiwi for hiking) on the Queen Charlotte Track, which showcases the scenic coast and native forests of Queen Charlotte Sound. More hikes will take you into other environments such as rainforests, lakes, and thermal wonderlands. Sea kayak through sheltered azure waters that lap golden coves and sculpted granite headlands lined by lush native forest around the Abel Tasman National Park.

Activities

10 days of moderate hiking, sea kayaking

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Sea Kayak around the glorious Abel Tasman National Park
• Relax in the world renowned Hammer Springs Thermal Pools
• Explore Lake Rotoiti in Nelson Lakes National Park
• Hike through forests, historic bays and skyline ridges that offer scenic views of Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds

Duration: 10 days Start Location: Blenheim End Location: Christchurch

BRIEF Itinerary

• 

  Day 1 : Marlborough Winery

  Mid-Morning arrival in Blenheim, taste fantastic wines like the award-winning Sauvignon Blanc at the Forrest Estate Winery, in the heart of the Marlborough wine region. In the afternoon head to Picton. Welcome dinner at nearby restaurant

• 

  Day 2 : Queen Charlotte Track

  Transfer by boat to Ship Cove. We begin walking along the Queen Charlotte Track, one of New Zealand's "Walkway."

• 

  Day 3 : Punga Loop- Queen Charlotte Track

  This morning we hike the Punga Loop then take a water taxi back to Picton.

• 

  Day 4 : Sea Kayaking in the Abel Tasman National Park

  Starting the morning with a Aqua Taxi ride into Tonga Island Marine Reserve and alight at Onetahuti beach, the starting point for your kayak exploration.

• Day 5 : Hiking around Able Tasman National Park

  Walk from Anchorage south to the track entrance at Marahau. Then in the afternoon we travel to St. Arnaud, a charming village on the edge of Nelson Lake National Park. 

• Day 6 : Nelson Lakes National Park

  St. Arnaud, a charming village on the edge of Nelson Lakes National Park, which straddles the northern part of the Southern Alps. From here, we’ll take a challenging walk through native beech forests en route to stark Roberts Ridge.

• 

  Day 7 : Punakaiki- Pancake Rocks & Blowholes

  Hike among the limestone canyons and lush rainforest of the Inland Pack Track in Paparoa National Park. You'll also check out Punakaiki's famous Pancake Rocks, whose blowholes put on a fascinating natural fountain display during high tide.

• 

  Day 8 : Truman Track and Hot Springs

  A morning hike on the Truman Track, then we'll head back east over the beautiful and scenic mountain pass to reach the jewel of Hanmer Springs. You will have a free afternoon and evening to enjoy and relax at the award-winning Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa or walk around the village.

• 

  Day 9 : Mt Isobel

  Today we will be hiking to the summit of Mt Isobel. The summit gives great views of Hanmer Springs. Mt Isobel is a great precursor to a relaxing afternoon swim at the thermal pools. Tonight we'll have a festive farewell dinner with the group.

• Day 10 : Fly Home

  Transfer to Christchurch Airport and fly home via Auckland. (Your flight can depart anytime in the afternoon)

Properties shown are representative of the accommodations we use on this trip, may not be inclusive of all accommodations we use, and are subject to change.

Expert leadership is the key to an exciting, unforgettable experience. Our trips feature gifted leaders for whom leading trips is a true vocation. Besides showing you wonders you’d never find on your own, they make sure everything runs smoothly and safely without a hitch. They are knowledgeable about all aspects of your trip, and take great pleasure in sharing their insights with you. More than just guides, they positively elevate your experience by being teachers, companions, and the best of friends. You’ll be in good hands with them every step of the way.

photo credits: