Southern Alps
New Zealand
Challenge yourself to trek the rugged wilderness of New Zealand’s beautiful South Island.
Trip duration:
6 days
Challenge duration:
6 days
Challenge grade:
3/5
Departure months:
October to April
Accommodation:
Twin-share in 3-star lodge/motel
Hiking the Southern Alps
On this adventure, you'll be enamoured by the spectacular wilderness of New Zealand's South Island.
Starting in the rugged rocky outcrops of Mt Somers, begin your trek across challenging high country of beech forest and tussock slopes. You will have time to marvel at the pristine, turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo before making your way up the Hooker Valley.
Face the daunting 1800 steps to Sealy Tarns knowing you'll soon be rewarded with the landscape of the Hooker and Mueller glaciers, and the majestic summits of Aoraki, Sefton and Footstool. You can expect breathtaking 360 degree views of New Zealand’s highest mountains, of glaciers and ice cliffs, startling rock faces and deep canyons. The final leg of your adventure will be the spectacular vista of the Rob Roy Glacier before you make your way to the infamous resort town, Queenstown.
Why you'll love this adventure
- Take in the spectacular mountainous vista that is the Southern Alps by foot
- Experience the diverse landscapes, from mountains, to glaciers, vertical rock faces and deep valleys
- Explore the dramatic alpine landscape of Rob Roy Glacier
- Meet like-minded people and make a difference to a cause you are passionate about
Trip notes
Day 1: 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 lodge/motel
Trekking Distance: 12km / 4-6 hours
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: 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. We visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and stretch our legs on a short walk around the lake shore into Tekapo village. After refreshments, we continue our journey towards the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. We start with the 10-kilometre Hooker Valley walk, which takes us over impressive swing bridges and beneath towering summits including the majestic Aoraki/Mt Cook to a serene glacial lake. Here, a photographer's dream, we'll take a rest and soak up the awe-inspiring scenery. Retracing our steps, we return to Aoraki/Mount Cook village, where we will spend the next two nights nestled under the impressive snow-capped peaks.
Accommodation: 3-star lodge / motel
Trekking Distance: 10 km / 4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: 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.
Accommodation: 3-star lodge/motel
Trekking Distance: 5km / 3-4 hours (Mueller Hut 10km / 6-8 hours)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: 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.
Accommodation: 3-star lodge/motel
Trekking Distance: 4.5km / 2-3 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: 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 lodge/motel
Trekking Distance: 7km / 3 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Skyline Gondola - Ben Lomond Track - tour ends in Queenstown
On the last day of our incredible Southern Alps adventure, we trek up a ridgeline rewarding us with panoramic views across Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkable Mountains. The day starts with a drive over the impressive Crown Range Road to Queenstown. We take a ride on the Skyline Gondola to arrive at Bob's Peak above the treeline and then walk up a well formed trail through alpine tussock. On reaching Ben Lomond Saddle, we can rest and take in the views which extend into the Mount Aspiring National Park. In good weather, strong hikers can continue to the summit of Ben Lomond reaching a lofty 1748m. We return the same way down the ridgeline and back to the gondola station. We can celebrate our week's achievements with a drink overlooking Queenstown and the lake. We then descend by gondola down to the town where the trip concludes.
Trekking Distance: 8 km / 3-4 hours (Ben Lomond Summit additional 3 km / 3-4 hours)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 1: 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: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: 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: 5.5-12km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: 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: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4: 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: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: 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: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: 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.
Trekking Distance: 10km (Matukituki 5-10km)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Frequently asked questions
Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au
About the adventure
How challenging is this adventure?
The Southern Alps trek is rated a moderate 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. This is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. It is essential that you prepare for this challenge, particularly with hill or stair training. We recommend that in the months leading up to your trip, you increase your physical fitness with aerobic exercise.
Who will I be travelling with?
Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.
The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team.
Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.
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.
Fitness and training
How do I train for this adventure?
We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.
It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for up to 8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.
Accommodation
What is the accommodation like?
Accommodation on this adventure is in 3-star lodges and motels based on twin-share. The rooms have either ensuites or shared bathrooms, depending on availability.
Will I be sharing accommodation?
Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.
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
What is the food like?
Please check your trip notes for meal inclusions. On this adventure you will be served a mixture of cooked and continental breakfasts, generous picnic lunches and 2-course kiwi-style dinners. Morning and afternoon tea snacks and a selection of hot & cold drinks are available during trekking.
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.
What weather can I expect?
Thanks to its position in the path of the ‘Roaring 40s’, mountainous terrain and its maritime climate, New Zealand’s weather can frequently change with amazing rapidity. Always prepare for wind and rain as it can, and often does, happen suddenly. As a rule of thumb, plan for all weathers. The Southern Alps act as a barrier to the moisture-laden winds coming west across the Tasman Sea, creating a wet climate on the west side of the mountains and a drier climate on the east side. The geography also creates a wind pattern, which can in summer be very hot, dry and fierce. The temperature during the South Island summers range from 10‐30°C, with a pleasant 40‐50% humidity. Higher altitudes are always considerably cooler and snowfall is not uncommon even in summer. Minimum temperatures expected in the Southern Alps in summer are around ‐5°C.
Please check local weather forecasts on metservice.com prior to departure for up-to-date information as the seasons can be unpredictable and highly variable week to week.
Will I have mobile phone reception?
Mobile phone signals can be patchy in the outdoors and are dependent on your service provider. But don’t worry - this is all part of the experience! You should have reception intermittently along the trail and good reception in most towns and accommodations.
Will I have access to electricity?
Yes, there will be power points available at the lodge. New Zealand uses the Plug Type I (two flat pins and a grounding pin) the same as in Australia.
What do I need to pack?
You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider. Our local operator offers complimentary gear hire including day packs, raincoats and walking poles. In New Zealand you must be prepared for cold conditions at any time of year – it is essential to have enough warm items. You will need to carry your full day’s water supply as the water on the trail is not suitable for drinking. Please bring your own reusable water bottle or bladder.
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 and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.
How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?
See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.
Costs and payments
What’s included in the travel cost?
Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost includes:
- Transfers as per itinerary
- Accommodation in 3-star lodges and motels based on twin-share
- Meals as per itinerary
- Water on trekking days
- Local guide(s)
- Entrance fees as per itinerary
What’s not included in the travel cost?
Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost does not include:
- 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
Are the travel costs subject to change?
We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please keep in mind they can change due to group size or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.
Why do I need to pay a registration fee?
When you register, you will be required to pay a registration fee to secure your spot on the team. From the minute you register until you return from your adventure, the team at Inspired Adventures will provide you with everything you need - including a tailored fundraising plan, fitness advice and support with your travel preparations. You will receive access to your online adventure portal complete with your own online fundraising page and lots of resources to help you along the way. Your registration fee goes towards our cost of managing the adventure and supporting you on your journey.
How much spending money do I need?
We recommend that you allow NZ$45 per day to cover any meals not included in the trip costs, souvenirs, gifts, drinks and any additional activities you may wish to participate in. It is possible to travel well on a smaller budget and you can always withdraw more money while away.
Is it customary to tip?
Tipping is not compulsory, and you are encouraged to tip only an amount you find appropriate.
Travel insurance and visas
Do I need to have travel insurance?
Travel insurance is compulsory for non-NZ residents and highly recommended for NZ residents 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.
Do I need a visa to travel to New Zealand?
Australian passport holders do not require a visa for entry into New Zealand. If you are travelling on a different passport or for further information, please contact the relevant embassy.
About New Zealand
When is the best time to travel to New Zealand?
If you are after those amazing shots of the lakes, craters and out of the world colours then summer is the time to hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This means it is very busy but the weather is nice and stable. In order to avoid the biggest crowds we recommend undertaking this challenge in November and February through to May.
Can I drink the water in New Zealand?
Tap water in New Zealand is safe to drink and we encourage you to bring refillable water bottles or water bladder to minimise plastic waste. You can fill up before the start of the day at the hotel. The water available along the trail of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is not suitable for drinking.
About the adventure
How challenging is this adventure?
The Southern Alps trek is rated a moderate 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. This is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. It is essential that you prepare for this challenge, particularly with hill or stair training. We recommend that in the months leading up to your trip, you increase your physical fitness with aerobic exercise.
Who will I be travelling with?
Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.
The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team.
Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.
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.
Fitness and training
How do I train for this adventure?
We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.
It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for up to 8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.
Accommodation
What is the accommodation like?
Accommodation on this adventure is in 3-star lodges and motels based on twin-share. The rooms have either ensuites or shared bathrooms, depending on availability.
Will I be sharing accommodation?
Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.
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
What is the food like?
Please check your trip notes for meal inclusions. On this adventure you will be served a mixture of cooked and continental breakfasts, generous picnic lunches and 2-course kiwi-style dinners. Morning and afternoon tea snacks and a selection of hot & cold drinks are available during trekking.
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.
What weather can I expect?
Thanks to its position in the path of the ‘Roaring 40s’, mountainous terrain and its maritime climate, New Zealand’s weather can frequently change with amazing rapidity. Always prepare for wind and rain as it can, and often does, happen suddenly. As a rule of thumb, plan for all weathers. The Southern Alps act as a barrier to the moisture-laden winds coming west across the Tasman Sea, creating a wet climate on the west side of the mountains and a drier climate on the east side. The geography also creates a wind pattern, which can in summer be very hot, dry and fierce. The temperature during the South Island summers range from 10‐30°C, with a pleasant 40‐50% humidity. Higher altitudes are always considerably cooler and snowfall is not uncommon even in summer. Minimum temperatures expected in the Southern Alps in summer are around ‐5°C.
Please check local weather forecasts on metservice.com prior to departure for up-to-date information as the seasons can be unpredictable and highly variable week to week.
Will I have mobile phone reception?
Mobile phone signals can be patchy in the outdoors and are dependent on your service provider. But don’t worry - this is all part of the experience! You should have reception intermittently along the trail and good reception in most towns and accommodations.
Will I have access to electricity?
Yes, there will be power points available at the lodge. New Zealand uses the Plug Type I (two flat pins and a grounding pin) the same as in Australia.
What do I need to pack?
You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider. Our local operator offers complimentary gear hire including day packs, raincoats and walking poles. In New Zealand you must be prepared for cold conditions at any time of year – it is essential to have enough warm items. You will need to carry your full day’s water supply as the water on the trail is not suitable for drinking. Please bring your own reusable water bottle or bladder.
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 and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.
How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?
See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.
Costs and payments
What’s included in the travel cost?
Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost includes:
- Transfers as per itinerary
- Accommodation in 3-star lodges and motels based on twin-share
- Meals as per itinerary
- Water on trekking days
- Local guide(s)
- Entrance fees as per itinerary
What’s not included in the travel cost?
Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost does not include:
- 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
Are the travel costs subject to change?
We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please keep in mind they can change due to group size or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.
Why do I need to pay a registration fee?
When you register, you will be required to pay a registration fee to secure your spot on the team. From the minute you register until you return from your adventure, the team at Inspired Adventures will provide you with everything you need - including a tailored fundraising plan, fitness advice and support with your travel preparations. You will receive access to your online adventure portal complete with your own online fundraising page and lots of resources to help you along the way. Your registration fee goes towards our cost of managing the adventure and supporting you on your journey.
How much spending money do I need?
We recommend that you allow NZ$45 per day to cover any meals not included in the trip costs, souvenirs, gifts, drinks and any additional activities you may wish to participate in. It is possible to travel well on a smaller budget and you can always withdraw more money while away.
Is it customary to tip?
Tipping is not compulsory, and you are encouraged to tip only an amount you find appropriate.
Travel insurance and visas
Do I need to have travel insurance?
Travel insurance is compulsory for non-NZ residents and highly recommended for NZ residents 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.
Do I need a visa to travel to New Zealand?
Australian passport holders do not require a visa for entry into New Zealand. If you are travelling on a different passport or for further information, please contact the relevant embassy.
About New Zealand
When is the best time to travel to New Zealand?
If you are after those amazing shots of the lakes, craters and out of the world colours then summer is the time to hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This means it is very busy but the weather is nice and stable. In order to avoid the biggest crowds we recommend undertaking this challenge in November and February through to May.
Can I drink the water in New Zealand?
Tap water in New Zealand is safe to drink and we encourage you to bring refillable water bottles or water bladder to minimise plastic waste. You can fill up before the start of the day at the hotel. The water available along the trail of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is not suitable for drinking.
All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.
Responsible Travel
Caring for our adventurers, the communities we visit and the wellbeing of the planet is the heart of everything we do. This adventure is no exception.
Meaningful connections: Hear from Aranda Elders who will tell us about the history of the area.
Environment: We offset the emissions from this trip through carbon credit programs in partnership with Carbon Neutral.
Treading lightly: Trekking is a great, low-impact way to explore.
Small group travel: Our teams consist of a maximum of 25 people. Better for you, and better for the planet.
Responsible business: We’re a certified B-Corp, committed to using business as a force for good
Upcoming adventures
So Brave – Southern Alps New Zealand Trek
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