This trip dossier contains all the information you require for booking this trip. Please print off and read carefully before booking.

It is possible to do the North Island only or the South Island only of this tour. Please go to Northern Portion or the Southern Slice.
Single Supplement price is only if you want a room to yourself.

Maximum 11

Itinerary

Day 1.

Auckland – Coromandel 2 hours hiking / 4 hours kayaking
Drive south to Thames at the base of the Coromandel Peninsula. Here we stock up with food and supplies before driving north along this idyllic pohutukawa (NZ Christmas tree) coast. We explore a kauri forest grove of towering ancient trees before crossing over the ranges to the east coast. Picnic lunch on the white sands of Hot Water Beach before an afternoon sea kayak ($95) or hike along the beautiful Cathedral Cove coast. Sea kayakers paddle through a marine reserve, where you may observe fish and if you’re lucky dolphins, in the sparkling clear waters. Late afternoon we drive south to our accommodation. You may like to indulge in an evening stroll along an open ocean beach. L.

Day 2.

Coromandel – Rotorua 1 hour rafting / 1 hour hiking
Driving south, we stop to clamber down the cliffs to one of the beautiful Pacific coast beaches for a swim before heading inland to Rotorua. Stop for a picnic lunch and a walk through lush native bush beside the thundering Kaituna River. There is the option to take a 1 hour rafting trip ($99) on the Kaituna River. This trip is for the wild at heart as it travels down one of the highest commercially rafted waterfalls in the world. In the afternoon or the following morning we explore one of the incredible thermal areas near Rotorua. Marvel at the bubbling mud, sulphurous smells and mineral-induced colours of the rock and lakes. Stay at lodge accommodation nearby. BL.

Day 3.

Rotorua – Whirinaki 5 hours hiking
We drive east through the huge Kaingaroa forests of plantation pine trees to the natural Whirinaki Forest Park. Pack up your kit for the two-day hike through this spectacular Jurassic-like rainforest. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time, to where the dinosaurs roamed, as you splash through streams and soak up pure wilderness. Learn river-crossing techniques from your capable guide. We overnight at a hut/camp, preparing delicious wholesome food to sustain us well through the hiking. Laze around a campfire, share travel stories and later fall asleep to the sounds of the river. BLD.

Day 4.

Whirinaki – Tongariro 5 hours hiking
Second day of the hike. We shoulder our now familiar packs and follow alongside the beautiful Whirinaki River. This remote wilderness is completely off the tourist trail. We often see rare blue ducks and robins, hear kaka (a large bush parrot) and hike along beneath majestic tree ferns. We are met at the road end on the far side of the park. On our drive towards Taupo there’s time to have a dip in a natural hot river, one of those secret spots only the locals know about. Look at the powerful Huka Falls, feel the spray on your face, before relaxing in the lodge near Tongariro National Park. BLD.

Day 5.

Tongariro 5 hours hiking
After being dropped off at the trail start, we hike through waving tussock-grasslands between the volcanoes to a hut set in an enclave of native beech forest. After lunch we traverse across stony deserts to an alpine hut at 1400m, perched on the edge of an old lava flow. From this hut we get fantastic views of the three main peaks in the park; Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. It’s an extraordinary landscape of active volcanoes and lava valleys, dynamic and changing even in recent years. Revel in the experience of sharing a basic alpine hut with like-minded travellers passionate about the outdoors. BLD.

Day 6.

Tongariro 6-8 hours hiking
We hike up through a moon-like valley of contorted lava flows and ash fields before climbing up a steep section to the Emerald Lakes, our usual lunch stop. We cross the volcanic plateau, which boasts lava valleys and steaming explosion craters, flanked by the brooding volcanoes, before descending on the western side. In good conditions, there is an option to climb one of the volcanic peaks. Tongariro National Park is full of landscapes the likes of which are found nowhere else in New Zealand. An evening drive takes us to a lodge beside the park with great views back on the volcanoes. Enjoy a beer and meal out in the alpine village. BL.

Day 7.

Tongariro – Wellington
Morning drive to Wellington, arriving in the early afternoon. Wellington is New Zealand’s wonderful harbour capital. The giant fault-created harbour almost encircled by steep suburbs gives it a giant coliseum feel. Nowhere is very far in this stylish city. You have free time to enjoy walking around. You may like to visit the museum of New Zealand, called Te Papa, or the beehive (Parliament House). Wellington is well known for its vibrant café scene and its accessible downtown area. People come into the city to enjoy the lively atmosphere. BL.

Day 8.

Wellington – Abel Tasman
Depending on final arrangements, group are met by our South Island-based guide at either the Picton Ferry terminal or the nearby airport at Koromiko. Travel from here through to Nelson and on to Kaiteriteri. This picturesque beachside village is the gateway into Abel Tasman National Park. Board a water taxi here for a 30 minute ride into one of the most beautiful campsites in the park, Onetahuti. On arrival tents are set up and there is time for a wander along the beach, or a swim before enjoying dinner prepared by your guide. LD.

Day 9.

Abel Tasman – Nelson Lakes 1.5 hours hiking, 3 hours kayaking
Start the day with a 1.5hr walk along the Abel Tasman coastal track to Bark Bay; sea kayaks and a local guide meet us there for a paddle exploring the bays and coast back to Anchorage. From Anchorage board the water taxi once more for the return journey to Kaiteriteri. Kayaking is optional, should you prefer to hike instead. Drive to St Arnaud village, situated on the shores of Lake Rotoiti with a dramatic backdrop of mountains. BLD.

Day 10.

Nelson Lakes – Hanmer Springs 5 hours hiking
We start the day with an optional pre-breakfast walk around the Rotoiti Mainland Island reserve. Intensive pest eradication schemes are in place in this area of beech forest in an effort to restore native bird populations to a pre–European state. After breakfast we take a short drive up on to the Robert Range to start our hike. From the car park the track climbs steadily on to the crest of the Robert Range. Wide expansive views of mountains and lakes are the reward for the climb. We have lunch at Bushline Hut, which is perched on a grassy ledge high above Lake Rotoiti. Return to the vehicle via a different track and then drive over the Southern Alps at Lewis Pass to Hanmer Springs thermal resort. After an active day, a soak in the renowned hot pools here will be the perfect end to the day. BL.

Day 11.

Hanmer Springs – Flock Hill 5 hours hiking or biking
Today there is the option of hiring a mountain bike ($49) and exploring the trails that wind their way through the park-like setting of exotic forest species. Alternatively take a hike up Mt Isobel, the nearby mountain, which dominates the skyline behind the village. Relaxing in one of the local cafes and taking another dip in the hot pools are also options today. At midday we depart and drive south, an organic brewery and café is the lunch stop. Try some excellent locally brewed beers with lunch before continuing across the Canterbury Plains and foothills to Flock Hill Station, a large sheep and cattle farm set in the Canterbury high country. After dinner there is the option of joining the guide for a short drive to nearby Lake Pearson, excellent photo opportunities to capture the pristine reflections of the Southern Alps in the lake. Return to the station accommodation. BD.

Day 12.

Flock Hill – Hokitika 4-5 hours hiking
A morning hike up nearby Bealey Spur where we enjoy brunch at an old ‘Musterers Hut’. The hike offers excellent views looking up the wide braided river bed of the Waimakariri River to the Southern Alps. The vegetation ranges from mature beech forest, regenerating manuka (Tea Tree), and sub alpine clearings dotted with tarns (small alpine lakes). Back in the vehicle we pass through the small alpine village of Arthur’s Pass before crossing back over the Southern Alps and descending through lush native forests to the coastal plains of the West Coast. The night is spent at Hokitika, a once thriving gold mining town in the 1860’s, today the town is a little more relaxed but with plenty of charm. In true “kiwi style” tonight’s dinner is a meal of fish and chips (optional), on the beach, watching the sun go down over the Tasman Sea. BL.

Day 13.

Hokitika – Haast 4 hours glacier hiking
Drive down the coast this morning to Franz Josef Glacier, one of the few places in the world where you can see glaciers descending right down into rainforest. Here you have the option of taking a half-day guided hike ($123) up on the glacier. Local guides fit you out with special crampons that fix to your boots giving you extra traction on the ice. After the hike enjoy the world class scenery as we drive south through South Westland World Heritage Area. Final destination for the day is the village of Haast with a stop at Ship Creek, a coastal walkway where Hector’s Dolphins (world’s smallest marine dolphin) are often spotted playing in the surf. BLD.

Day 14.

Haast – Aspiring Hut 3 hours hiking
Crossing the Southern Alps for a third and final time today at Haast Pass takes us into a markedly different landscape. Lush rainforests give way to high mountain peaks and vast glacially formed lakes and valleys. A stop in the resort town of Wanaka gives you time to wander around and enjoy the awe-inspiring vistas before we head off on an overnight hike into Mt Aspiring National Park, part of the South Westland World Heritage Area. Our afternoon hike follows the wide valley floor of the Matukituki River to Aspiring Hut. This large stone hut offers comfortable yet basic accommodation in incredible surroundings. For those that prefer camping there is a sheltered campsite nearby. BLD.

Day 15.

Aspiring Hut – Queenstown 5 hours hiking
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in this majestic mountain setting, before a hike up a side valley to view the Rob Roy Glacier. On return to the vehicle the drive takes us over the Crown Range, we stop off for a drink at the historic drover’s hotel at Cardrona and arrive into Queenstown late afternoon. BL.

Day 16.

Queenstown (optional Milford day trip)
Today is either a free day in Queenstown or you may want to use this day to visit Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park. Your guide can arrange coach and cruise or fly and cruise options. If staying in Queenstown there will be plenty of adventure activities to keep you entertained. Your guide is happy to advise and organise these on your behalf.

Day 17.

Free day or Ben Lomond hike 6-8 hours hiking
A free day to take advantage of all the adventure activities available in Queenstown, or join the guide for a day hike to the summit of Ben Lomond, which overlooks Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.

Day 18.

Queenstown – Aoraki/Mt Cook 4 hours hiking
Leave Queenstown and drive through the MacKenzie country and on to Aoraki/Mt Cook. Arriving at Mt Cook Village at midday gives us the whole afternoon to hike up to Sealy Tarns, and for the more energetic, on to the crest of Mueller Ridge. An alternative easier but no less spectacular walk is also available up the Hooker Valley to view the Hooker Glacier. Both hikes afford amazing views of New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki at 3754 metres. BLD.

Day 19.

Mt Cook – Peel Forest 3 hours rafting
We continue north today through the MacKenzie Country and on to Peel Forest, a small farming settlement near the banks of the Rangitata River. The Rangitata is an iconic South Island river, fed by glaciers in the Southern Alps, it tumbles its way down on to the Canterbury Plains where it spreads itself out over an extremely wide and braided riverbed. It also happens to be one of New Zealand’s premium white water rafting rivers, the whole trip takes about three hours and offers some thrilling sections of grade 5 white water (rafting option $195). If rafting is not your thing, horse trekking and bush walks are also available. Tonight we stay in a nearby eco-lodge, nestled in native bush, all electricity is provided by solar panels, and it can only be accessed on foot or 4WD. It is about a 5 minute walk to the lodge from where we leave the vehicle. Fresh salmon is part of tonight’s dinner that we prepare together. BLD.

Day 20.

Peel Forest – Christchurch 5 hours hiking
Last day of the tour today, but still time for yet another spectacular hike. We drive to Mt Somers Reserve, an area of volcanic origins, characterised by deep canyons, honey dew forest and lofty mountain peaks. We follow an old miner’s track into a trampers hut at Woolshed Creek, where we have lunch. Before returning via a slightly different track, there is the option of exploring some water caves, which may get you a little wet! Once back at the vehicle, we head back across the Canterbury Plains, with a stop at a local country pub. Opportunity to have a celebratory drink before arriving in Christchurch in the late afternoon. BL.

Grading & Fitness

Grade: D
Average 4-5 hours physical activity per day, up to 8-9 hours on longer days.
Pack weights of 12-15kgs on some days. (Overnight hikes: Whirinaki, Tongariro and Mt Aspiring)
Altitude gains of up to 800m.
Some uneven track surfaces and river crossings.
No hiking experience necessary.
Agility and fitness required.

You need to be reasonably fit and enthusiastic.
Terrain mostly tracks. Some may be slippery or rough; some off-track hiking and river crossings.

Guides & Safety

An excellent guide can make the difference between a trip of a lifetime and just an ordinary trip. That is why we work hard to make sure we hire the best guides. Our handpicked professionals come from a range of backgrounds. Each has extensive outdoor and hiking experience and a passion for New Zealand’s wild and beautiful backcountry. Our guides will ensure that your time with us is truly inspiring, a huge amount of fun and safe. All guides are trained in Mountain Safety First Aid. Please be gentle with your guide - good guides are hard to find!

What to take

New Zealand’s weather is changeable and we can experience extremely cold weather at any time of year, especially in the mountains. Our huts/camps vary in altitude from sea level to over 1000 metres. It is necessary to have warm clothing. Jeans are not suitable for hiking.
Hiking New Zealand highly recommend Macpac clothing and equipment.

Essential Items

• hiking boots (not shoes)
• backpack (at least 60 litres capacity)
• 3-season sleeping bag
• waterproof raincoat (gore-tex or similar)
• warm fleece/wool jersey (not cotton)
• shorts for hiking
• polypro/thermals – top & long-johns
• 3 pairs of socks (they get wet)
• warm hat or balaclava
• sunscreen and sunglasses
• drink bottle (1 litre)
• spare shoes or sandals
• flashlight/head lamp
• insect repellent (sandflies like foreign blood)
• spare set of clothes
• gloves/mittens

Optional items:

(but highly recommended)
Gaiters, binoculars, gloves/mittens, earplugs, walking poles, camera.

We supply:

Therm-a-rest sleeping mat, tents, cooking equipment, plates/cutlery, backpack liner (plastic bag), first aid kit, safety equipment and maps..

Luggage:

We allow space for 120 litres per person (one large pack plus one day pack). You may be required to forward excess luggage if you exceed this. Any gear you do not need while hiking can be locked in the vehicle. Hiking New Zealand accepts no responsibility for security of your luggage. We highly recommend travel insurance.

Equipment Hire:

We have high quality hiking equipment which you can hire for our Hiking Tours. Please arrange hire gear when you book. Requests for hire equipment must be made at least 5 days before the departure date. Cancellation of gear hire must also occur at least 5 days in advance or no refund will be given.

Transport

You will travel in a 10 or 12 seat minibus towing a trailer with camp equipment and your luggage. All vehicles have a public address system, and a stereo with a variety of music. It is also equipped with a range of natural history reference books. The average driving time per day is around 2-3 hours and there will be a range of roads - sealed and unsealed. The guide will often stop the vehicle for you to take photos.

Food

A lot of the meals are included on this tour, but when staying in the larger towns we let you do your own thing and try some of the excellent local restaurants (see "Additional Costs" section). The meals we cook and prepare ourselves will be healthy and wholesome and include a lot of fresh produce. You may be asked to help the guide with preparation or washing up, don’t let this put you off though, it is part of our philosophy to get everyone involved. We believe this makes the whole experience more fun and rewarding. The trailers we tow are customised with a fold down table and cooking area, great for preparing picnics at all those secret places we will take you. Breakfast is usually continental style but don’t be surprised if you wake up to the smell of fresh pancakes! When you go on an overnight hike the group will carry a portable stove.

Accommodation

The New Zealand Uncut tour uses a range of accommodation: on the overnight hikes we either stay in huts or tents. The rest of the time we stay in comfortable and clean lodges and cabins. Generally rooms are twin share, if you are travelling on your own there may be occasions where you are in a triple share room with fellow travellers of the same gender.

Questions

Does it matter if I am travelling alone?
Most of the people on our tours are travelling alone. The tours are strong on group activities and participation including playing outdoor games, going for swims, helping one another to cross rivers, explore caves, and overcome obstacles and challenges. We encourage you to participate in activities, but if it's not your thing that is also OK. We allow time for people to be by themselves on tour if they need it.

Can I do just the North or South Island component?
Yes. The price for the NI only is NZ$1815 and the SI only is NZ$3135

I am travelling and have a lot of stuff that I will not need on the tour, what should I do with it?
You can store it at your accommodation if you plan on returning to the area. Or, you can travel with it on tour. We allow a maximum space of 120 litres per person (1 large pack plus a daypack). Depending how full the tour is, we may require you to forward excess luggage if you exceed this. During overnight hikes everything is locked securely in the vehicle.

What do I do with my valuables (passport, airline tickets, money, etc.) while we are hiking?
Keep them with you in your hiking pack. We pack all those things in plastic bags to keep them dry and keep them with us while we are hiking.

Can I be picked up at my hostel or accommodation?
No. We try to leave the city early so we can spend more time in the wilderness. It is much easier for everyone to meet at a central location, usually the local Visitors Information Centre - and it doesn't cost much to get there on a taxi, shuttle or bus (or walking!).

I'm a vegetarian, is that a problem?
Not at all. We often have vegetarians in the group. All the guides are familiar with vegetarian cooking. We also have lots of excellent vegetarian recipes. Sometimes the whole group will cook vegetarian or we may cook a separate vegetarian meal. The hangi is always a mixture of vegetarian and meat foods. We can also cater for other dietary requirements, but please notify us when you book.

What is the weather going to be like?
New Zealand experiences very changeable weather - especially in the remote mountainous regions where we spend most of our time. Some days we can be broiling in 30 degrees and then the next day we could be freezing in a cool southerly from the sub Antarctic. It is best to be prepared for the worst conditions we are likely to expect - see the 'What To Take' section. We may get some rain on the trip so a good waterproof raincoat is important.

Will I be fit enough?
Our tours are graded B, C or D. Read the section 'Hiking and Fitness' and choose a trip to suit you. If you are concerned about your fitness get out there and do day hikes in the weeks prior to your tour departure.

Who is in my group?
A small group (maximum 11 people), with a range of ages, nationalities and work backgrounds. We have hosted guests from 17 to 72. On average, half are women and half are men. Everyone shares an enthusiasm for outdoor adventure and an appreciation of nature.

How far in advance do I need to book?
The sooner the better for tours departing in the peak season (November to April). We get many advance bookings so it is important to book early to avoid disappointment. Availability for our trips is updated regularly on our departure dates page.

What type of gear should I buy?
If you intend to do a lot of hiking then it is worth buying quality equipment - good leather hiking boots and hiking clothing. If you think you might not do any more hiking after the tour then you could buy cheaper alternatives - just remember that it won't last as long nor do the job as well. You may also rent certain items from us.

What if I can't keep up with the rest of the group?
We hike together as a group, stopping often for snacks and a good lunch. Some activities are optional if you feel like having some time out.

Are we going to encounter dangerous animals?
New Zealand does not have any snakes, bears, lions or alligators. We have a small poisonous spider called the katipo that is so rare it was recently made a protected species. At certain times of the summer and autumn, wasps can be a problem in some of our beech forests. If you are allergic to them make sure you carry medication, and tell your guide about it at the beginning of the tour. Otherwise, it is great to climb through the bush and lie in the grass without a thing to worry about.

Can I charge my camera/phone/laptop, etc. while on tour?
Yes. Most places we stay have electricity so you will be able to recharge batteries. If you have a vehicle adapter, bring it along as there may be an opportunity to charge items while we are driving.

Can I do laundry on tour?
Yes, most places we stay have laundry facilities. We recommend bringing items that are quick drying and plenty of spare pairs of socks and underwear.

Additional Costs

Optional activities: Coromandel sea kayaking ($95*), Kaituna River rafting ($99*), Hanmer Springs bike hire ($49*), Franz Josef Glacier hike ($123*), Rangitata River rafting ($195*).

Meals out: Meals are not provided for the two free days in Queenstown. Seven additional evening meals, one lunch and one breakfast are not included. The average cost for a restaurant dinner (main course) in New Zealand is about $25.

* Prices for optional activities correct at time of publishing.

Booking Conditions

Transferring:
You can transfer to another tour/ departure as long as it is more than 20 days prior to your pre-booked departure. Transfers within 20 days will require a cancellation and new booking. All transfers are subject to seat availability.

Payment:

For bookings four or more months in advance of the departure a 25% deposit can be paid with the remainder due 65 days prior to your trip. For bookings within four months of the departure, full payment is required.

Cancellations:

More than 20 days prior to departure - 80% refund of full ticket price.
20 to 10 days prior to departure - 50% refund of full ticket price.
Less than 10 days prior to departure - NO REFUND.
Deposits are not refunded.

Travel Insurance:

We strongly recommend that you have comprehensive travel insurance. We ask you to fill out a disclaimer before you begin a Hiking Tour. You must follow the instructions of your guide at all times.

Medical Conditions:

When you book you must notify us of any medical condition, medical history, or medications that you are on. In particular, asthma, diabetes, heart conditions, allergies to wasp/bee stings and food allergies.

Disclaimer:

With any outdoor activity, there is an element of risk. Hiking New Zealand operates in remote and mountainous areas. Risks in undertaking this activity could include hypothermia due to adverse weather conditions, personal injury, or property damage from hiking over rugged and uneven terrain.

The staff and management of Hiking New Zealand take all practicable steps to identify and minimise potential dangers. However you must follow our instructions (and use the safety equipment provided) at all times. Adults accompanying any person under the age of 18 must ensure that the underage person follows our instructions at all times. You must release or indemnify Hiking New Zealand and our staff against any liability we incur to anyone else, resulting from your failure to follow our instructions or the failure of any person accompanying you under the age of 18 to follow our instructions.

Hiking New Zealand and their guides reserve the right to make any alterations to the itinerary in the interest of safety, comfort or unforeseen circumstances due to causes such as weather, illness, or misadventure. Every reasonable endeavour will be made to keep to published schedules but no guarantee is given. Hiking New Zealand will not be held liable for costs incurred by change, delay, or the missing of connecting services.

Hiking New Zealand reserves the right to exclude a person from a tour at anytime if in the opinion of the guide or operator that person may be likely to risk the health, safety or comfort (including unsociable behaviour) of other clients, him or herself, or the environment. In such circumstances Hiking New Zealand will not be obliged to offer any refund or transfer of ticket.