19th - 22nd September 2024

~~$3,231~~ $3,081

Trip Cost

3/5

Challenge Grade

$2,500

Fundraising Target

The Difference You'll Make

Kids should be free to just be kids, but childhood cancer tragically steals that sense of carefree normalcy. Camp Quality believes in the power of fun in helping children and their families face the challenges a cancer diagnosis brings. That’s why as campers at Camp Quality, children get a chance to be themselves again, surrounded by children who understand what it’s like to be the ‘kid with cancer’. Playing, learning and completing fun camp challenges together, kids build the resilience they’ll need to face the cancer challenges that lay ahead.

Every year, more than 300 children in New Zealand attend a Camp Quality camp. The funds you raise on the Big Trek for Little Kids will help fund summer and winter camps, family days and reunion events to give more children living with cancer the chance to feel like a kid again.

How it works

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.

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, Thursday, 19 September 2024: Lake Tekapo - Hooker Valley - Aoraki/ Mt Cook Village

Day 1, Thursday, 19 September 2024: Lake Tekapo - Hooker Valley - Aoraki/ Mt Cook Village

The adventure begins! This morning we meet in Christchurch and make our way over 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 an 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.

Accommodation: 3-star accommodation

Trekking distance: 5.5-12 km

Meals: B L

Day 2, Friday, 20 September 2024: Sealy Tarns - Aoraki/ Mt Cook Village

Day 2, Friday, 20 September 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 we still have energy and are up for the challenge, we 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.

Accommodation: 3-star accommodation

Trekking distance: 5 km (Mueller Hut 10 km)

Meals: B L

Day 3, Saturday, 21 September 2024: Wanaka - Rocky Mountain and Diamond Lake

Day 3, Saturday, 21 September 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.

Accommodation: 3-star accommodation

Trekking distance: 7 km

Meals: B L D

Day 4, Sunday, 22 September 2024: Rob Roy Glacier - Mt Aspiring National Park - tour ends in Queenstown

Day 4, Sunday, 22 September 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. Congratulations on achieving your Big Challenge for Little Kids!

Trekking distance: 10 km (Matukituki 5-10 km)

Meals: B L

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

Excluded in the cost: Airfares • Airport Transfers • Travel insurance (compulsory for non-NZ residents, highly recommended for NZ residents) • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Personal expenses • Tips and gratuities

Why you'll love this adventure

Take in the spectacular mountainous vista of the Southern Alps.
Trek among diverse landscapes from mountains, to glaciers, vertical rock faces and deep valleys.
Explore the dramatic alpine landscape of Rob Roy Glacier.
Raise vital funds to help Camp Quality New Zealand give more children living with cancer the chance to feel like kids again.

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 28-53 kilometres over 4 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.

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.

Who is Inspired Adventures?

Camp Quality New Zealand has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 19 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 8,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $47 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and Camp Quality New Zealand, 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 based on twin share, in three star accommodation.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-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.

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 Camp Quality New Zealand?

Yes, all of your fundraising will go directly to Camp Quality New Zealand. Only the travel costs are payable to Inspired.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for Camp Quality New Zealand 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 NZ$3,231 (inclusive of a $950 non-refundable deposit).

In addition, you are also committing to raising $2,500 (per person) for Camp Quality New Zealand.

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.

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.

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

Testimonials

“It was just the best adventure! The team and the guides were amazing and everything ran so smoothly! It was truly amazing and I will never forget the experience!”

– Sarah, JDRF Southern Alps NZ 2022

"It was a great trip. Our local guides knew their territory really well and the walks selected were really good, getting harder over time”

– Lincoln, Shelterbox Southern Alps NZ 2022

Find Out More

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