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New Zealand South Island Hiking Tour

From Abel Tasman National Park to Milford Sound


With its glorious fjords, glaciers, mountains, lakes, rivers, and tracks that crisscross it all, New Zealand's rugged South Island is a hiker's dream. On this amazing journey, follow trails in Abel Tasman, Paparoa, Nelson Lakes, and Fiordland National Parks. Experience the Fox Glacier up close, and marvel at Punakaiki's Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Hike sections of four Great Walks including the Kepler and Routeburn Tracks! Take an exciting jetboat safari, cruise spectacular Milford Sound, soak in soothing hot pools, and experience Maori culture firsthand. Along the way, relax in comfortable hotels, taste world-class wine, and encounter an array of native wildlife. Discover the wonder of New Zealand on one of our most popular hiking adventures!

13 Days

From: $8,995

With its glorious fjords, glaciers, mountains, lakes, rivers, and tracks that crisscross it all, New Zealand's rugged South Island is a hiker's dream. On this amazing journey, follow trails in Abel Tasman, Paparoa, Nelson Lakes, and Fiordland National Parks. Experience the Fox Glacier up close, and marvel at Punakaiki's Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Hike sections of four Great Walks including the Kepler and Routeburn Tracks! Take an exciting jetboat safari, cruise spectacular Milford Sound, soak in soothing hot pools, and experience Maori culture firsthand. Along the way, relax in comfortable hotels, taste world-class wine, and encounter an array of native wildlife. Discover the wonder of New Zealand on one of our most popular hiking adventures!

Highlights


  • Experience the splendor of New Zealand's South Island on this custom-designed hiking adventure -- with sections of four Great Walks!

  • Explore an array of unforgettable highlights, including Abel Tasman National Park, Milford Sound, and the beautiful Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Area

  • Sip coffee in quaint towns, savor award-winning wines, and soak up warm New Zealand hospitality at perfectly located hotels

Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

New Zealand South Island Hiking

Start: Nelson, New Zealand  End: Queenstown, New Zealand

Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

Itinerary


  • Arrive in Nelson

    Day 1

    Welcome to the South Island! Upon arrival at the airport in Nelson, your MT Sobek guide will meet you outside the arrivals area and transfer you to your hotel. Relax before joining the group for a welcome dinner and trip briefing.

    Accommodation: Tides Hotel

    Meals: Dinner

  • Go Deep into Abel Tasman National Park

    Day 2

    Today is dedicated to the spectacular Abel Tasman National Park. From Kaiteriteri, a seaside village and gateway to the park, cruise the rugged coastline past golden-sand beaches and granite headlands into the heart of Abel Tasman. Step ashore at Bark Bay and follow the famed Abel Tasman Coastal Track through native forests and along empty beaches. A well-formed trail leads up and over a gentle ridge into Torrent Bay, where you check out the clear, fresh water of Cleopatra's Pool before continuing to Anchorage, from where you boat back to Kaiteriteri.

    Accommodation: Tides Hotel

    Activity: 3 hours/7 miles hiking with 1,938' elevation gain and loss

    Transportation: 2-hour round-trip private van transfer and 2-hour round-trip boat transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Experience Nelson Lakes National Park

    Day 3

    Depart Nelson bound for St Arnaud and the picturesque alpine lake Rotoiti situated in the northernmost extent of the Southern Alps. A short water taxi ride accesses the head of the lake to hike and have a picnic lunch in the splendid Travers Valley. The track traverses crystal clear river pools, tranquil beech forest, rushing streams and grassy river flats surrounded by mountains. The return boat ride to St Arnaud and a late afternoon drive down the broad Wairau Valley into the wine growing region of Marlborough delivers you to your accommodation for the night.

    Accommodation: Chateau Marlborough

    Activity: 3 hours/6.2 miles hiking with 460' elevation gain and loss

    Transportation: 2.5-hour drive and 1-hour water taxi

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Get a Taste of Local Wines & Maori History

    Day 4

    Head south and stop for wine tasting at Yealands Estate, an award-winning vineyard renowned for innovation and sustainable wine production. Tour the extensive property by way of the White Road and enjoy sweeping views over the Cook Strait. Continue along one of the most stunning coastal drives in the country, with superb scenery and common New Zealand fur seal and dolphin sightings. On arrival in Kaikoura, experience remarkable coastal scenery with a hike around the Kaikoura Peninsula, passing by historic whaling and Maori pa sites.

    Accommodation: The White Morph

    Activity: 3 hours/7.5 miles hiking

    Transportation: 2-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Enjoy Whale-Watching, Hiking, and Hanmer Springs

    Day 5

    Start the morning with a whale-watching cruise offering close-up views of majestic sperm whales, New Zealand fur seals, dusky dolphins, and the endangered wandering albatross. Then drive to the thermal resort of Hanmer Springs and up to Jack's Pass, your first alpine experience. Enjoy the scenic vistas of the Hanmer Range, Clarence Valley, and Amuri Basin as you explore the local trails. The remainder of the day is free to browse the shops, soak in the Hanmer Springs thermal pools, and savor dinner in a local eatery.

    Accommodation: Hanmer Springs Hotel

    Activity: 1.5 hours/2 miles hiking with 1,361' elevation loss, 2.5-hour whale-watching cruise

    Transportation: 2-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Experience Beech Forests & Pancake Rocks

    Day 6

    Hike today in the Victoria Conservation Area amidst pristine beech forests, meandering rivers, and mining relics. The return track leads up the Klondyke Valley through ancient gnarled beech forests draped in verdant green mosses. Take time out to enjoy a cup of tea and a snack beside the river before returning the same way. Afterward, stop in the historic and quaint town of Reefton for a coffee and a stroll down the main street, lined with restored heritage buildings that offer insight into the past. On arrival at Punakaiki, take a short walk around the famous Pancake Rocks and watch the mighty blowholes. Tonight enjoy dinner at a local pub.

    Accommodation: The Ocean View Retreat

    Activity: 2 hours/2.5 miles hiking with 528' elevation gain and loss

    Transportation: 3.5-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Hike Paparoa National Park

    Day 7

    Hike the Inland Pack Track from Pororari River to Punakaiki. This historic route was once used by prospectors and miners to avoid the immense coastal cliffs while travelling the West Coast now forms part of our newest Great Walk, the Paparoa Track. After gently climbing out of the Punakaiki Valley, the trail descends into the Pororari. From here the trail follows a deep limestone canyons ,with towering rainforests and groves of tropical nikau palms. You may not be able to resist a speedy swim in one of the many deep clear pools you pass on the way! After the hike there is free time for more exploring along this wild section of coast or to relax at the beachfront accommodation.

    Accommodation: The Ocean View Retreat

    Activity: 3 hours/6 miles hiking

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Tackle the Mighty Fox Glacier

    Day 8

    Get another early start to drive south down New Zealand's picturesque West Coast to Fox Glacier, situated in a protected UNESCO World Heritage Area. Hike with our guide to the glacier viewpoint via the Moraine Walk. This walk traverses old moraine surfaces enveloped with dense West Coast forest. Or, book an (optional and subject to weather conditions) heli-hiking walk on the glacier with crampons. You will be guided on a set walk to scenic spots around the glacier. Stay in the quaint village of Fox Glacier for dinner in a local restaurant.

    Accommodation: Distinction Fox Glacier

    Activity: 2 hours/3.5 miles hiking with 500' elevation gain and loss (optional heli-hiking for additional fee, booked on arrival)

    Transportation: 3.5-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Take a Jetboat Safari in South Westland

    Day 9

    Drive south toward Hannah's Clearing, where you board a jetboat and embark on a remarkable Waitoto River safari. This unforgettable journey takes you deep into the otherwise inaccessible UNESCO-listed Te Wahipounamu, also known as the South West New Zealand World Heritage Area. The scenery changes dramatically from wild coastline to mountainous primeval beech forests upstream. Part way up the river, take a short hike among the towering trees. After the jetboat safari, enjoy a BBQ lunch with the owners of the jetboat company featuring fresh seafood and wild game before driving over the Southern Alps at Haast Pass to Wanaka.

    Accommodation: Edgewater

    Activity: 2.5-hour jetboat safari

    Transportation: 4.5-hours private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Follow Trails Around Lake Wanaka

    Day 10

    Take it easy today with a moderate morning hike amongst the post-glacial features of Diamond Lake and the Rocky Mountain area. Relish spectacular views of Glendhu Bay, Roy's Peak, Lake Wanaka, and the patchwork of farmland and wilderness areas. Return to your lakeside accommodation for a relaxing afternoon and evening at your leisure. Those with energy left to burn can hike the pretty lakeside trail that passes in front of the hotel.

    Accommodation: Edgewater

    Activity: 3 hours/4.5 miles hiking with 1,886' elevation gain and loss

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Trek the Kepler Track

    Day 11

    After transferring to Te Anau, hike part of the Kepler Track - one of New Zealand's famed Great Walks, located in Fiordland National Park. The section meanders around the lake through lush mountain and red beech forest before emerging at Brod Bay, a delightful picnic and swimming spot. From here, catch the water taxi back to Te Anau; it's just a short walk to your hotel. Later in the afternoon you can visit Te Anau Bird Sanctuary for an opportunity to see some New Zealand's more elusive and endangered native birds.

    Accommodation: Distinction Luxmore

    Activity: 1.5 hours/3.5 miles hiking with 200' elevation gain and loss

    Transportation: 3-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Marvel at Milford Sound & the Routeburn Track

    Day 12

    This morning drive out to breathtaking Milford Sound for a memorable cruise. Get up close to the soaring cliffs and thunderous waterfalls. After lunch, take an afternoon hike to Key Summit on another of New Zealand's Great Walks, the Routeburn Track. The trail offers stunning views of the Darran Mountains and the Hollyford Valley, and passes through an alpine region of meadows, tarns, and a diverse range of alpine flora. Then drive back to Te Anau through lovely Eglinton Valley.

    Accommodation: Distinction Luxmore

    Activity: 3 hours/4.5 miles hiking with 1,620' elevation gain and loss; 2-hour cruise

    Transportation: 4-hour round-trip private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Arrive in Queenstown and Depart for Home

    Day 13

    Transfer to Queenstown this morning in time for a midday airport drop-off. If you're staying longer, you can also be dropped at a central Queenstown hotel.

    Transportation: 2.5-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

Dates & Prices


  • 2023
  • 2024
  • Go Private
  • Go Custom
  • Inclusions

2023

Scheduled Dates


The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

2024

Scheduled Dates


The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

Go Private

Go Private


Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.

Call or email us to get the ball rolling.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Private Trip Pricing:


2023 Pricing

6 to 7 guests from $9,595 per person double occupancy

8 to 9 guests from $9,395 per person double occupancy

10 to 12 guests from $9,195 per person double occupancy

Additional Costs:


Private pricing excludes potential additional costs such as internal airfare, single supplement, or any park fees that may be required for the trip.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Make Your Own Dates in These Months


Go Custom

Create Your Very Own Adventure


Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.

When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.

*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.

Start Planning

Inclusions

Price Includes


  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include


  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert


800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

Your Guides


The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.

Jeremy Martin

Jeremy Martin

Jeremy is a top MT Sobek guide, who loves exploring wild places the world over! As well as guiding in his home country of New Zealand for over 15 years, Jeremy leads intrepid adventures in England, Scotland, and Ireland. He has a special passion for summer walks in England, leading England Coast to Coast Hiking and Village to Village Hiking in the Cotswolds. When he's not guiding for MT Sobek, Jeremy enjoys examining maps, planning adventures, and working with school groups near his home in Herefordshire, England.

Marios Gavalas

Marios Gavalas

Marios does not have the most Kiwi of names, but since arriving in New Zealand over 20 years ago he has not stopped exploring. With boots laced up, pen, paper, and camera in his backpack, Marios has ventured widely into the nooks and crannies of these folded islands as a researcher and guide. As an avid explorer of Fiordland, Abel Tasman, and the mountainous regions of New Zealand, he has had the privilege to meet extraordinary locals and gain snippets of history and culture. These give depth to the landscape and enrich his interpretation for MT Sobek guests.

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Hike today in the Victoria Conservation Area amidst pristine beech forests, meandering rivers, and mining relics. The return track leads up the Klondyke Valley through ancient gnarled beech forests draped in verdant green mosses. Take time out to enjoy a cup of tea and a snack beside the river before returning the same way. Afterward, stop in the historic and quaint town of Reefton for a coffee and a stroll down the main street, lined with restored heritage buildings that offer insight into the past. On arrival at Punakaiki, take a short walk around the famous Pancake Rocks and watch the mighty blowholes. Tonight enjoy dinner at a local pub.

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Take it easy today with a moderate morning hike amongst the post-glacial features of Diamond Lake and the Rocky Mountain area. Relish spectacular views of Glendhu Bay, Roy\'s Peak, Lake Wanaka, and the patchwork of farmland and wilderness areas. Return to your lakeside accommodation for a relaxing afternoon and evening at your leisure. Those with energy left to burn can hike the pretty lakeside trail that passes in front of the hotel.

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After transferring to Te Anau, hike part of the Kepler Track - one of New Zealand\'s famed Great Walks, located in Fiordland National Park. The section meanders around the lake through lush mountain and red beech forest before emerging at Brod Bay, a delightful picnic and swimming spot. From here, catch the water taxi back to Te Anau; it\'s just a short walk to your hotel. Later in the afternoon you can visit Te Anau Bird Sanctuary for an opportunity to see some New Zealand\'s more elusive and endangered native birds.

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Transfer to Queenstown this morning in time for a midday airport drop-off. If you\'re staying longer, you can also be dropped at a central Queenstown hotel.

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Activity Level


This trip is rated activity level 3. You can enjoy a range of multisport adventures on this trip, including: whale-watching, jetboating and an optional glacier hike. You should feel comfortable hiking 3 to 5 hours a day and up to 7 miles. No previous experience is required, but participants should have a generally good level of fitness.
Learn more about activity levels here.

Activity Snapshot

Day 2

3 hours/7 miles hiking with 1,938' elevation gain and loss

Day 3

3 hours/6.2 miles hiking with 460' elevation gain and loss

Day 4

3 hours/7.5 miles hiking

Day 5

1.5 hours/2 miles hiking with 1,361' elevation loss, 2.5-hour whale-watching cruise

Day 6

2 hours/2.5 miles hiking with 528' elevation gain and loss

Day 7

3 hours/6 miles hiking

Day 8

2 hours/3.5 miles hiking with 500' elevation gain and loss (optional heli-hiking for additional fee, booked on arrival)

Day 9

2.5-hour jetboat safari

Day 10

3 hours/4.5 miles hiking with 1,886' elevation gain and loss

Day 11

1.5 hours/3.5 miles hiking with 200' elevation gain and loss

Day 12

3 hours/4.5 miles hiking with 1,620' elevation gain and loss; 2-hour cruise

Accommodations


Comfortable, contemporary, and amenity-laden hotels, mostly located within spectacular natural settings.

The Ocean View Retreat
The Ocean View Retreat

Situated on New Zealand's wild west coast, 30 minutes north of Greymouth and 300m south of the famous Pancakes Rocks and Blowholes, the Ocean View Retreat is surrounded by the Paparoa National Park and is close to the beach. Its spacious, modern studio units all have en-suite bathrooms and either an ocean or garden view.

The White Morph
The White Morph

This lovely hotel is a Heritage Collection property right on the Esplanade in coastal Kaikoura. It is an excellent base from which to explore the natural wonders and native wildlife of the area, and serves all travelers, from business visitors to busy adventurers. Studios and apartments have kitchenettes or full kitchens, patios or balconies, and garden or ocean views.

Edgewater
Edgewater

The shores of Lake Wanaka host only one lucky property: the aptly named Edgewater. Three room types - hotel/studio rooms, one-bedroom suites, and two-bedroom apartments - suit both short- and long-term visitors and are complemented by lovely views, free Wi-Fi, two dining options, a sauna, spa pools, massage and other treatments, tennis courts, bike rental, putting green, and a children's playground.

Distinction Fox Glacier
Distinction Fox Glacier

The Distinction Fox Glacier offers luxurious hotel accommodation in the ruggedly beautiful Southern Alps, located New Zealand's magnificent West Coast region. The hotel's 20 spacious rooms are well-appointed with modern amenities, including SKY TV, spacious en-suite bathrooms, coffee-making facilities, and unlimited free Wi-Fi - all rooms also feature their own private balcony. Guests can also enjoy access to the hotel's cozy lounge area and relax with a glass of wine while enjoying the valley views.

 

 

Tides Hotel
Tides Hotel

Situated in the heart of Nelson City, the Tides Hotel is perfect for those who want to be close to all of the city center's highlights. The wider area has three national parks and plenty of outdoor activities available. Away from the action, the rooms at Trailways are perfect for relaxing, with their comfortable, large beds and outside lounging areas.

Chateau Marlborough
Chateau Marlborough

Chateau Marlborough Hotel is a five-star old-timer with comfortable studios, all well-equipped with a range of modern amenities. The hotel features a heated pool and a private gym; book a treatment at the luxury spa for total relaxation.

Hanmer Springs Hotel
Hanmer Springs Hotel

This lovely 48-room hotel is situated amid lush gardens with green canopies. It showcases stunning mountain views, best savored from the swimming pool and sundeck. The classic rooms come complete with earthy colors, large comfortable beds and gorgeous vistas; some have private patios. Continental breakfast is included.

Distinction Luxmore
Distinction Luxmore

With its 180 rooms, Distinction Luxmore showcases a diverse range of comfortable accommodation options. The hotel has two restaurants on the premises, with lovely views of Lake Te Anau. The location is prime, close to the shopping center and a short walk away from Lake Te Anau and its many water activities.

Weather


Temperatures can vary between 50°F to 90°F during the day and may include sunshine, rain, and even snow at higher altitudes.

 
Jan
Feb
Mar
Nov
Dec
Nelson 
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Nelson
71
56
72
55
68
52
65
60
69
54
Queenstown 
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Queenstown
71
49
71
49
66
45
64
42
68
47

FAQs


At what altitudes will I be hiking?

We do not travel to high elevations on this trip. The highest altitude we will reach is 2,550 feet when we hike to Diamond Lake and on up Rocky Mountain on the outskirts of Wanaka for spectacular views over the lake, and to the Southern Alps and Mount Aspiring/Tititea.

Does this itinerary visit Milford Sound?

Milford Sound is magnificent and you will discover firsthand why Rudyard Kipling rated this fiord as the eighth natural wonder of the world. You will enjoy a boat cruise between glaciated mountains under sheer cliffs which plummet hundreds of meters into inky dark waters. You may also encounter dusky dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, and if you're lucky, the rare Fiordland crested penguin.

What kind of vehicles are used?

We travel in a comfortable air-conditioned Mercedes mini-buses, in which each seat has a seatbelt and always with more seats than passengers. We travel with a custom-built trailer, where luggage is securely stored.

What is the jet boat experience like?

The jet boat is the ideal means to access this remote, beautiful and otherwise accessible part of the South Island deep in the South Westland World Heritage Area. It is not about thrills and spins as much as it is about enjoying the stunning scenery and learning the local history and stories.

What is the heli-hiking optional activity like?


The heli-hiking is an optional activity at an additional cost that must be paid on arrival. Please keep in mind that the heli-hike is subject to weather conditions and may be cancelled that morning.

You will take a short helicopter ride to the glacier and spend up to three hours walking on uneven and icy terrain. You will be provided crampons, boots, cold weather attire and walking poles.

What is the best time of year to hike in New Zealand?

The driest and warmest time of year is December - February, but September - November and March - May can be quite good too! As an island, New Zealand has a temperate maritime climate so one can experience all four seasons in one day. You should be prepared for either sunshine and warm days or rain and wind at any time during your trip.

Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

Guest Reviews


"This was my second MT Sobek adventure. The first one made my expectations high and they were exceeded on this tour. The itinerary exposed us to a wide variety of what the South Island has to offer. The guides were superb in their knowledge of the natural world, New Zealand history and culture, and Maori culture. They were warm and personable and did a super job of promoting group camaraderie and esprit de corps. I recommend this trip enthusiastically and without reservations."

Andy K.
MT Sobek Guest, New Zealand South Island Hiking

"My first experience with MT Sobek was a trip to New Zealand. Everything about it met or exceeded my expectations. The guides, the dining, the accommodations, the activities were all top notch and I would recommend MT Sobek without hesitation!"

Ann Z.
MT Sobek Guest, New Zealand South Island Hiking