Berry Street Southern Alps

Trek the Southern Alps in New Zealand to help raise funds for Berry Street's vital services that help children recover from family violence.

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20-25 November 2024

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$3,699

Travel Fees
Paid upfront or in instalments

3/5

3/5

Challenge Grade

Give Back to the Community

$3,000

Fundraising Target

The Difference You'll Make

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For children and families who experience violence, abuse and trauma, Berry Street is a trusted organisation that provides programs, services and support to ensure families can stay together safely.

As one of Australia’s largest independent family service organisations, Berry Street offers a wide range of services including foster and kinship care, trauma-informed education, family violence services and support, and programs that help children heal and recover from their deep trauma. Their vision is a future where children are healthy, happy and able to imagine and create better futures for themselves.

By joining the Berry Street Southern Alps adventure, you'll raise vital funds for these services by joining like-minded teammates to take on the epic Southern Alps treks.

Your efforts will help families like Josie’s*, who at just 22 took on the care of her three young siblings, Annie* (7) Lucas* (5) and Rose* (3). Knowing firsthand the trauma they would experience in the family home, Josie stepped up to be their guardian, and with support from Berry Street’s kinship care services, she’s creating a healthier future for her and her young siblings.

Thanks to the ongoing support of Berry Street’s therapy and dedicated staff, 24/7 helpline access, and financial support to  purchase household essentials, Josie is keeping her siblings together in a safe, loving home.

*Names changed to protect identity. 

How it works

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FLEXIBLE BOOKINGS

Pay upfront or in flexible instalments.
Cancel more than 90 days before departure to receive refund options (excluding deposit).
For more details, see our FAQs.
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Make a difference

Commit to raising the minimum fundraising target and make a positive difference to worthwhile causes.

You'll be supported by our team of fundraising experts to reach and exceed your fundraising goals.

Teamwork

Be part of a team

Join like-minded travellers, and representatives from the charity, all united in their adventurous spirit and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.

Trip notes

Day 1, Wednesday, 20 November 2024: Meet Christchurch - Mt Somers - Methven

This morning you meet your team and guides in the largest city in New Zealand’s South Island, Christchurch. A chaotic and colourful city, Christchurch is still rebuilding following devastating earthquakes in 2011. However, rising from the rubble is a city reborn, where urban regeneration and respect for the past are perfectly balanced. After time to meet and greet the team, we set off on the first trek of our adventure along the Mount Somers Walkway to Woolshed Creek Hut. With our boots well-worn and tired legs, we transfer to our accommodation in Methven and enjoy our first team dinner together.

Accommodation: 3-star accommodation

Trekking distance: 12 km

Transfer time: 3 hours

Meals: L D

Day 2, Thursday, 21 November 2024: Lake Tekapo - Hooker Valley - Twizel

Rising early, after breakfast we drive from Methven to Aoraki/Mount Cook village via Lake Tekapo. Coloured a milky-turquoise by glacial fine rock-flour, Lake Tekapo guides the eye to a spectacular mountainous vista of the Southern Alps – our challenge for the days ahead. From Lake Tekapo (village), we trek to the observatory at Mount John then have the option to follow the Hooker Valley Walk (10km, flat) or the shorter, but more challenging walk to Red Tarns (3.5km, 300m ascent). After another incredible day, we transfer to Twizel and spend the night nestled between snow-capped peaks.

Accommodation: 3-star Accommodation

Trekking distance: 5.5 - 12 km

Transfer time: 4 hours

Meals: B L

Day 3, Friday, 22 November 2024: Sealy Tarns - Twizel

Today, we again have the option to take it easy and enjoy the scenery or push ourselves to achieve more. After driving from Twizel into the Aoraki/Mount Cook National park, we begin with a walk to Sealy Tarns for spectacular views across Aoraki/Mount Cook – New Zealand’s highest mountain – and the Mueller Glacier. If you still have energy and are up for the challenge, from here you can continue to Mueller Hut (1,000m ascent) for a 360° view of New Zealand’s highest peaks and the ice cliffs, sheer vertical rock faces and glaciers that surround them. In the afternoon, we return to Twizel for a second night.

Accommodation: 3-star Accommodation

Trekking distance: 5 - 10 km

Transfer time: 1.5 hours

Meals: B L

Day 4, Saturday, 23 November 2024: Lake Ohau - Hopkins Valley - Wanaka

Today we head for Lake Ohau, surrounded by majestic mountains set within the Mackenzie Basin. One of the largest basins in New Zealand, the Mackenzie Basin was once famous for sheep farming, but is now also a popular adventure destination. You can choose to walk up the wide Hopkins Valley to the historic Monument hut or along the South Temple Stream following river flats to the South Temple Hut. If you still have the energy you can push yourself on the Freehold Creek Track through tranquil beech forest up to a waterfall, surrounded by lakes and mountain peaks in all directions. Whichever route you choose, you will be rewarded with spectacular views. In the late afternoon we drive onto Wanaka, a resort town on the shores of Lake Wanaka where we will spend the next 2 nights. 

Accommodation: 3-star Accommodation

Trekking distance: 10 - 20 km 

Transfer time: 3 hours

Meals: B L D

Day 5, Sunday, 24 November 2024: Rocky Mountain and Diamond Lake - Wanaka

Our challenge today takes us around the edge of stunning Lake Wanaka to the start of our trek up the east side of Rocky Mountain to the summit. Here we will enjoy the superb view over Mount Aspiring National Park. Descending via Diamond Lake, we then have the option to walk along the scenic Glendu Bay track all or part way back to Wanaka, or return in the van. We will be rewarded by impressive mountain and lake vistas and we can visit the famous Wanaka Tree, a photographer’s delight. Tonight we enjoy a celebratory final team dinner together.

Accommodation: 3-star Accommodation

Trekking distance: 7 - 12 km

Transfer time: 45 minutes

Meals: B L D

Day 6: Monday, 25 November 2024: Rob Roy Glacier - Mt Aspiring National Park - tour ends in Queenstown

On the last day of our incredible Southern Alps adventure, we trek the dramatic alpine landscape to Rob Roy Glacier past snowfields, waterfalls and sheer cliffs. If you want to explore further, we can continue up the Matukituki Valley in Mount Aspiring National Park. In the afternoon, we transfer to Queenstown where our adventure ends in the early evening. If you decide to fly out tonight, please book flights departing after 7 pm for domestic and 8 pm international.

Trekking distance: 10 - 15 km

Transfer time: 4 hours

Meals: B L

Includes: Transfers as per itinerary • Accommodation in 3-star lodges and motels based on twin share • Meals as per itinerary • Local guides • Day packs and hiking poles (if required) – requested before the tour • Access & Concession fees paid to Department of Conservation

Exclusions: Airfares • Airport Transfers • Travel insurance (compulsory for non-NZ residents, highly recommended for NZ residents) • Visa if applicable • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Personal expenses • Tips and gratuities

Mount Cook New Zealand

Why you'll love this adventure

  • Hike past glacial lakes, up steep mountainous slopes and through valleys, forests and snowfields in the Southern Alps.
  • Soak up the 360° views of some of New Zealand’s most inspiring sights, including Lake Tekapo and Aoraki / Mount Cook.
  • Visit the magnificent Rob Roy and Haupapa/Tasman glaciers and take a bold plunge into the icy waters.
  • Raise vital funds for Berry Street to provide safe homes and help children and young people heal from trauma including family violence, abuse and neglect.

Frequently asked questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au) or phone (1300 905 188). We’re always here to help!

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The Southern Alps Trek is a physical challenge, involving trekking approximately 44 to 70 kilometres over 6 days. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. 

You will be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You are free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks. 

How many people will be on my adventure? 

We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. The Berry Street Southern Alps Trek in 2024 will have a maximum of twelve participants.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. The Berry Street Southern Alps Trek in 2024 will have a maximum of twelve participants.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however, younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

Who is Inspired Adventures?

Berry Street has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 20 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 8,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $46 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and Berry Street, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure? 

We will provide you with information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. In addition, we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

As part of your training, we recommend making use of your free time to complete several day hikes. You should aim to be able to walk in hilly terrain for 5+ hours comfortably and get up and do it again the next day.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek.

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like? 

Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share in three-star accommodation. 

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share and multi-share. You will be staying in basic cabins and mountaineering lodges. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. 

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

What to expect

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for? 

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides are first aid trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.

Fundraising

How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target? 

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise more than they imagined. 

By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to meet their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together? 

Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.

Will the funds raised go directly to Berry Street? 

Yes, all of your fundraising will go directly to Berry Street. Only the travel costs are payable to Inspired Adventures.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for Berry Street are tax-deductible (conditions apply).

Payments, cancellations and refunds

How much does it cost to participate in this adventure? 

The total trek fees (including accommodation and most meals) is $3,699 for six days and five nights (inclusive of a $950 non-refundable deposit).

In addition, you are also committing to raising $3,000 (per person) for Berry Street.

Flights to New Zealand, some local travel, travel insurance, and two meals will also need to be covered at your expense.

What happens if I need to cancel?

If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify us as soon as possible.

  • Cancellation within 5 days of registration will receive a full refund.
  • Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure will receive a full refund minus the $950 deposit.
  • Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Where applicable, we can provide assistance in making a travel insurance claim.

Travel insurance and visas

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is required for international travel to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

 

All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.

Testimonials

"It was a great trip. Our local guides knew their territory really well and the walks selected were really good"

- Lincoln Kern, ShelterBox Southern Alps Trek 2022

"Our guides and contact at IA were fantastic . Very passionate in what they do and very easy going fantastic people . I wouldn't hesitate to recommend inspired adventures to anyone"

- Ross Burgess, JDRF Southern Alps Trek 2022

Find Out More

Enter your details to find out more and hear directly from our team about how this adventure makes a difference.