Trek in New Zealand with DUAL and raise vital funds for the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand.
10-13 April 2025
Travel Dates
3/5
Challenge Grade
$1,500
Fundraising Target
The Difference You'll Make
On this adventure, you’ll be enamoured by the spectacular wilderness of New Zealand’s South Island. During the challenge, you can expect breathtaking views of New Zealand’s stunning mountains, glaciers and ice cliffs, startling rock faces, pristine turquoise waters and deep canyons. It’s an experience you’ll never forget. Join DUAL on this trek and raise vital funds for the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand.
Just like physical health, mental health is something we all have, and we all need to look after it. Every year, one in five New Zealanders are affected by a significant mental health challenge. This could be you, or someone you care about.
With the right tautoko / support people can and do recover, and while the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand advocates for increased and equitable access to mental health services, it acknowledges that services alone aren’t the answer.
As New Zealand’s leading mental health promotion charity, the Mental Health Foundation is committed to getting ‘up stream’ to lift our collective mental health and wellbeing at a population level.
The funds you raise through DUAL Asia Pacific New Zealand Trek 2025 will help the Mental Health Foundation give people evidence-based tools to care for their wellbeing every day, empowering people and communities to support each other during tough times.
Nāku te rourou, nāu te rourou, ka ora ai te iwi. We all have a part to play to support each other.
Because there is no health, without mental health.
How it works
FLEXIBLE BOOKINGS
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
This morning we meet in Christchurch and start with a drive through the Canterbury Plains and towards Lake Coleridge. Our first walk takes us to the summit of Peak Hill (1,244m) high above the lake. At the top we are rewarded with sweeping views of snowy alps and the impressive Rakaia and Wilberforce river valleys. In the afternoon we enjoy another walk through the Rakaia Gorge along glacial and river-carved terraces to a stunning lookout point. The walkway follows the rim of the gorge where we will encounter spectacular geological areas, including lava flows, before descending into a gully under a forest canopy to the Snowdon coal mines. The entrances to several coal mine tunnels can be seen here, along with the remains of equipment used for extraction. Once at the bus, we drive to nearby Methven and check into our lodge to freshen up for dinner.
Accommodation: Ski Time Methven (or similar)
Trekking distance: 5km
Transfer distance: approx. 2 hours
Meals: L D
Mt Peel is known for its magnificent views towards Mt Somers, Mt Hutt and across the whole Canterbury Plains to the coast. After breakfast we will drive the short distance to the ancient Peel forest where today's ascent starts. The early part of the track passes through Mills Bush, 16.2 hectares of virgin podocarp forest containing giant lowland totara, matai and kahikatea trees, many of them around 1000 years old. We follow the well made Deer Spur Track up a ridge up to the summit at 1,311m. We will take a break at the shelter just below the summit to admire the views before descending via the steep South Ridge Track, with a couple of rocky scrambles. We will see Emily Falls on the way down. Today the day will end with a visit to Ōpuke Hot Pools in Methven to relax.
Accommodation: Ski Time Methven (or similar)
Trekking distance: 10km
Meals: B L D
Today's hike is the ultimate challenge of the week’s adventure and takes us up to the alpine peak of Mt Somers (1,687m). The summit and surrounding plateau offers 360 degree views of the mountains and coastal plain and on a clear day we can see as far as Aorkai/Mt Cook. We set off from the Sharplin Falls car park and climb through beech forest, ascending first to Hookey Knob and then to Staveley Hill. Here we emerge from the bush out into alpine tussock and are greeted with amazing views. The track becomes rocky and exposed then climbs steeply up a narrow ridge to the summit, but the panoramas are worth the effort. This is a long day, taking approx 5 hours one-way to hike 4.7km to the summit. We return the same way. If the weather conditions are not favourable or for an easier option, we can walk to the historic Woolshed Creek Hut via the Rhyolite Ridge Track and return via the Miners Track, which traverses through a landscape of waterfalls, deep icy pools and rocky tors. Tonight we have our final group dinner together where we celebrate our adventure and hiking achievements.
Accommodation: Ski Time Methven (or similar)
Trekking distance: 9.4km
Meals: B L D
This morning after our final breakfast we will return to Christchurch by mid morning. We say farewell to our guides and hiking companions and can be dropped at the airport or in the central city.
Transfer time: approx. 1.5 hours
Meals: B
Package Inclusions: Transfers as per itinerary • Accommodation in 3-star lodge based on twin-share • Meals as per itinerary • Professional guide/s • Entrance fees as per itinerary • Ōpuke Hot Pools
Package Exclusions: International Flights • Airport Transfers • Travel insurance (compulsory) • Visas • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Personal expenses • Tips and gratuities
Why you'll love this adventure
- Summit stunning mountains for magnificent alpine views.
- Traverse through a landscape of waterfalls, deep icy pools and rocky tors.
- Relax at the Ōpuke Hot Pools in Methven after a long day of trekking.
- Trek with other DUAL staff members and raise vital funds for the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions
Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventures.com.au
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 Canterbury Plains is a physical challenge, involving trekking approximately 25 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. 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?
DUAL 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 $49 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and DUAL, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.
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.
What is the accommodation like?
Accommodation on this adventure is in 3-star lodges based on twin-share.
Will I be sharing accommodation?
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.
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 Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand?
Yes, all of your fundraising will go directly to the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand. Only the travel costs are payable to Inspired.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
The funds raised for the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand are tax-deductible (conditions apply).
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.
