16-21 February 2024

$3,495

Trip Cost
Paid in instalments

3/5

Challenge Grade

$3,500

Fundraising Target

The Difference You'll Make

One in five Australians experience mental illness every year. And roughly 60% of those suffering won’t seek any help.

The Black Dog Institute works in partnership with communities, professionals and governments to bring evidence-informed change to mental health where it is needed most. Our team are working hard to build mental health awareness and reduce stigma in schools, workplaces and communities across Australia. But we need your help to create a mentally healthy world.

Join Black Dog Institute on a 6 day hike that will take you from the vibrant, colourful city of Christchurch through the constantly changing natural surroundings of New Zealand’s great wilderness. Visit the gleaming glacial waters of Lake Tekapo. Trek to Sealy Tarns for a spectacular view of Aoraki/Mount Cook’s 3,724m peak. Tread narrow trails through an alpine landscape up to the Rob Roy Glacier with snow fields, waterfalls and towering cliffs to be discovered at every step.

Best of all, your incredible efforts will help The Black Dog Institute to deliver evidence-based mental health resources to people across Australia.

How it works

Book with Confidence

Pay only $475 upfront to secure your place and pay the remaining balance in flexible instalments.

Cancel up to 90 days before travel with no penalty. For more details, see our FAQs.

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.

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: Friday, 16 February 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.

Trekking distance: 12km

Meals: L D

Day 2: Saturday, 17 February 2024

Lake Tekapo - Hooker Valley - Aoraki/ Mt Cook Village

Rising early, after breakfast we drive 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 return to Aoraki/Mount Cook village, located in the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, and spend the night nestled between snow-capped peaks.

Trekking distance: 4.5 km

Meals: B L

Day 3: Sunday, 18 February 2024

Sealy Tarns - Aoraki/ Mt Cook Village

Today, we again have the option to take it easy and enjoy the scenery or push ourselves to achieve more. 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 Aoraki/Mount Cook village for a second night.

Trekking distance: 5km (Mueller Hut 10km)

Meals: B L

Day 4: Monday, 19 February 2024

Tasman Glacier - Hopkins Valley - Lake Ohau

Today we set off to view Haupapa/Tasman Glacier. At around 27 kilometres, it is New Zealand’s longest glacier, but has been rapidly receding since the 1990s. In fact, in 1973, the glacier had no terminal lake. However, by 2008, the lake was over seven metres long. After ample time to gaze at the glacier itself, its terminal lake and surrounding snow-capped peaks, we then transfer to Lake Ohau, 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. From here, you can choose to walk up the Hopkins Valley or push yourself on the Freehold Creek Track through tranquil beech forest. Whichever route you choose, you will be rewarded with spectacular views. In the evening, we return to Lake Ohau for the night.

Trekking distance: 4.5km

Meals: B L D

Day 5: Tuesday, 20 February 2024

Wanaka - Rocky Mountain and Diamond Lake

Leaving the Mackenzie Basin, this morning we cross watersheds fed by surrounding mountains and drive over the Lindis Pass to Wanaka, a resort town on the shores of Lake Wanaka. This afternoon, we will stretch our legs with a trek past Lake Wanaka, around 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 drive back to Wanaka to enjoy a celebratory final team dinner.

Trekking distance: 7km

Meals: B L

Day 6: Wednesday, 21 February 2024

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.

Trekking distance: 10km

Meals: B L

What’s included? 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

What’s not included? 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

Why you'll love this adventure

Take in spectacular views of Aoraki/Mount Cook’s towering peak
Experience a dramatic natural landscape of snow fields, waterfalls, towering cliffs and glaciers.
Summit Rocky Mountain and gaze out across Mount Aspiring National Park
Support The Black Dog Institute to create a mentally healthy world

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 45 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. Our adventures average between 10 - 20 participants, connected by their commitment to the greater good.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

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?

The Black Dog Institute has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 19 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 7,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $45 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and The Black Dog Institute, 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 3-star, twin share.

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 far 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 have met 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 The Black Dog Institute?

Yes, all of your fundraising will go directly to The Black Dog Institute. Only the travel costs are payable to Inspired.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for The Black Dog Institute are tax-deductible (conditions apply).

Payments, Cancellations and Refunds

How much does it cost to participate in this adventure?

The total cost to participate in this adventure is: $3,495 (inclusive of a $950 non-refundable deposit).

In addition, you are also committing to raising $3,500 (per person) for The Black Dog Institute

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

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is highly recommended for domestic adventures 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 the most awesome trip. I could not have asked for a better-organised adventure. Bring on the next one!”

Amanda Hayes, Black Dog Tasmania 2022

“It was a truly amazing and life-changing experience. I came home a different person - mentally and emotionally.”

Judy Coates, Black Dog Larapinta 2021

“This trip has given me focus on what’s important in my life.”

Jonathan Gilchrist, Black Dog China 2019

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Find Out More

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