New Zealand Hiking & Kayaking – South Island

New Zealand Hiking & Kayaking – South Island Itinerary:

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• Day 1 The South Island adventure begins as soon as we leave Christchurch and cross over the Southern Alps for the west coast.

  Our trip begins this morning at 9:00a.m. in Christchurch, a city of gardens and stone architecture. Due to a full program today, we strongly encourage trip participants to arrive one day prior to the first day. After boarding our bus, we head west, stopping for lunch and a short hike at Punchbowl Falls as we cross the Southern Alps. It's a 4-½ hour drive to the west coast and we follow a scenic coastal road. We arrive in the early evening in the gorgeous seaside village of Punakaiki, where we'll spend the night. The sound of crashing waves of the Tasman Ocean provides the perfect backdrop for our first night on the West Coast. If time allows, we may see some local glowworms (larvae that create a light to lure prey to their web-like threads) in a grotto near the hotel! Lunch and dinner included.

  Hiking: 1-2 miles, 1 hour hiking.

• Day 2 Coastal forest, limestone cliffs and canyons await us in Paparoa National Park.

  After a good breakfast, we start the day with a hike into Paparoa National Park through temperate rainforest and under steep limestone bluffs to some great coastal views. The rainforest in this area is unbelievably lush and the eroded limestone canyons and distant hazy mountains of Paparoa National Park make this an awesome day hike. We'll also follow the Truman Track to a small surf beach and visit the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes – stacked flat limestone formations that shoot geysers toward heaven when high tides coincide with westerly swells. In the late afternoon, we drive to the bird watcher's paradise of Okarito. Okarito Lagoon is New Zealand's largest wetland area and is a common feeding ground for "kotuku" (White Heron) and Royal Spoonbill. All meals included.

  Hiking: 4 miles, 3-4 hours, 500' elevation gain. 3 ½ hours driving time.

• Day 3 Kayak in Okarito Lagoon, home to more than 70 species of birds and unsurpassed views of the Southern Alps.

  The Okarito Lagoon is host to the only white heron colony in New Zealand and it's the country's only unmodified tidal inlet. With orchids, rainforest and more than 70 species of birds, it is sometimes compared to the Amazon. Spend three plus hours moving at your own pace on a self-guided sea kayaking trail in the lagoon, surrounded by magnificent Rimu and Kahikatea rainforest with a backdrop of snowcapped mountains. This afternoon relax on the deck with a good book or explore the optional scenic hikes near our beach accommodations. Sunsets here are not to be missed! After dark, we might head out to listen for New Zealand's most famous bird, the rare and elusive kiwi. It's very rare to see one – they're shy nocturnal birds – but they have a distinctive call. All meals included.

  Sea kayaking: 3-4 hours. (No driving today.)

• Day 4 Today it's glacier country. Hike among one of nature's wonders - Franz Josef Glacier and it's twin, Fox Glacier.

  Today we're going to visit the great glaciers of the South Island. We'll make our way to a great viewpoint of the terminal face of the Franz Josef Glacier, unique in that the enormous river of ice cuts right through the rainforest, dropping 7,000 feet, almost to sea level. It is easily the steepest and fastest moving glacier in New Zealand. The views are fantastic. In inclement weather, there are several options for multiple short hikes that may include Fox Glacier, the Blue Pools and the beach. Then, we'll cross the Main Divide to scenic lakeside town of Wanaka. Wanaka sits at the foot of the Southern Alps and Lake Wanaka. Tonight's accommodations are walking distance to local shops and views of the lake. All meals included.

  Hiking: up to 4 miles, 3 hours. 4 ½ hours driving time.

• Day 5 Cross over the Crown Range and enter into the land of the "Lord of the Rings". Hike in the Fjordland National Park.

  After a light breakfast in the privacy of our own rooms, the morning takes us across the spectacular Crown Range, following the highest main road in New Zealand, which offers fascinating views of mountains and gold mine history. We'll pass through Arrowtown and stop for some exploration and morning tea. Arrowtown is a historic gold mining town that was once a popular hub during the gold rush. Now the town is known for its preservation of buildings and quaint shops. As we continue on, we stretch our legs stopping at viewpoints and getting a glimpse of the areas where the "Lord of the Rings" movie trilogy and its sequel, "The Hobbit", were filmed. We make our way to Te Anau, the gateway to Fjordland National Park, where we begin a three hour hike on the Rainbow Reach Track. Our hike wanders through a Mountain Beech forest. This section is part of the Kepler Track, one of the premier trails in New Zealand. We check into our comfortable accommodations with time to explore the lakeside town. All meals included.

  Hiking: 3 hours, 2-½ hours driving time.

• Day 6 Today our destination is the impressive and striking Milford Sound.

  When you tell people you've been to New Zealand, most will say, "Did you see Milford Sound!?!" Rated the 8th Wonder of the World by Rudyard Kipling, Milford Sound (a World Heritage site) is the most stunning fjord in a park full of stunning fjords. We depart our lodgings early in order to meet our boat's embarkation time later this afternoon. By way of the famous Homer Tunnel, we make our way through some of the most breath taking scenery in New Zealand. Optional hikes include Key Summit or other sections of the Routeburn Track. Upon reaching Milford Sound and boarding our vessel, M/V Wanderer, we depart from the Milford Sound wharf in the late afternoon and cruise the full length of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea accompanied by an onboard naturalist guide. The cruise style is relaxed, allowing plenty of time to view the fiord's spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife. We will have the opportunity to launch kayaks and glide along the waterline and get an up-close and personal look at this magnificent natural wonder. Afterwards, the Milford Wanderer anchors in a sheltered cove, where we enjoy our buffet dinner in the dining saloon. Then relax in the company of your fellow travelers or indulge in some star-gazing before retiring to your private cabin. All meals included.

  Hiking 3 hours, Sea kayaking: 1 hour. 2 ½ hours driving time.

• Day 7 Hiking on the world-renowned Routeburn Track is filled with stunning vistas of sweeping valleys and majestic peaks.

  After breakfast on board, we'll disembark and prepare for our next adventure – a kayak tour that gives us a different perspective of Milford Sound. A gentle paddle takes us around the Deepwater Basin of Milford Sound with impressive views of Mitre Peak and Pembroke Glacier. Afterwards, we make our way to Queenstown, New Zealand's premier four season lake and alpine resort. This drive is one of the finest in the world. Lush rainforest carpeting the lower slopes of the mountains gives way to the massively steep, glacier-carved slopes and waterfalls of the Darren Range. Once we make our way through the Homer Tunnel, the panorama will include jagged snow-capped peaks rising majestically over the Greenstone Valley to the south. We stop for short hikes to stretch our legs and explore the natural beauty of Fjordland National Park. We continue on our way to Queenstown via Te Anau and the Southern Alps. We'll check into our hotel for the next two nights. All meals included.

  Hiking: 2- 3 miles, 4 hours driving time.

• Day 8 Free day in Queenstown, the adrenaline capital of the world.

  Hold onto your hat! We have a free day in Queenstown, which is called the "adrenaline capital of the world!" Consider these optional activities: jet boating, bungee jumping, horse trekking, hiking or bike riding. Or simply enjoy the sidewalk cafes in Queenstown, wine tasting or shopping for fine New Zealand wool sweaters. All meals on your own.

  Activities on your own today.

• Day 9 Mount Cook towers over a region filled with turquoise blue lakes and emerald green valleys.

  Today's destination is the alpine village of Mount Cook, the highest mountain in New Zealand. We stop at the top of Lindis Pass, linking the Mackenzie Basin to Central Otago, for spectacular views. This afternoon, our journey takes us through Twizel, a town surrounded by five picturesque lakes. Here, we join a tour to learn about the endangered Black Stilt. Endemic to New Zealand, the Black Stilt's population has dramatically declined due to habitat destruction and introduced predators. Our participation in this tour of New Zealand contributes to the ongoing rehabilitation efforts for the Black Stilt. Upon arrival into Mount Cook village, take a hike to Kea Point that gives stunning views of Mt Sefton and Footstool, the Hooker Valley, Mueller Glacier Lake and Aoraki/Mount Cook. We'll spend our last two nights at a comfortable lodge within the Mount Cook village. Surrounded by mountains and native flora and fauna, our home away from home is the perfect retreat after a great day of hiking. You'll love watching Mount Cook as the sun sets and stars of the Southern Hemisphere shine bright on clear nights (no competing lights around!). All meals included.

  Optional easy walks. 3 - 3 ½ hours driving.

• Day 10 The reward at the end of today's hike—breath-taking views of the Southern Alps.

  Most of the day is spent exploring the park and hiking one of most scenic tracks in the park, Hooker Valley. The trail passes close to the Alpine Memorial, honoring the lives lost in the park. This spot provides a great viewpoint. The hike continues on to Hooker River and we cross it twice on swing bridges before reaching Stocking Stream Shelter. The trail continues beside the river and to our destination, the Hooker Glacier terminal lake. Once you catch your breath, you'll have no trouble understanding why native Maoris consider Mt. Cook a hallowed place (they call it Aoraki or "Cloud Piercer"). We head back to the lodge for our last night and farewell dinner. All meals included.

  Hiking: 4 hours with optional (weather dependent) challenging hike to Mueller Hut.

• Day 11 Depart for home.

  Christchurch is a 4 ½ hour drive from the Mt.Cook Lodge, so we plan to leave by 9 a.m., in order to arrive at the airport in the early afternoon, giving those departing on evening flights time to check-in. Head home relaxed and re-energized from spending so much time in an environment of rare beauty. Breakfast and picnic lunch included.

  4 ½ hours driving time.

Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control.

All accommodations, all sea kayaking equipment, meals as noted in the daily itinerary, scheduled airport transfers, ground transportation, sightseeing arrangements as noted in the itinerary, entrance fees, permits, experienced local guide.

Airfare, 1 lunch and 1 dinner, optional excursions, cost of medical immunizations, insurance of any kind, excess baggage charges, New Zealand airport departure tax, alcoholic beverages, optional tips to your guides and items of a personal nature.

Please check with us before purchasing your airline tickets to ensure your trip has the necessary minimum number of participants required to operate.

If you are traveling alone and specifically request single accommodations, you will be asked to pay the full single supplement noted on the trip itinerary.  If you wish to share accommodations, we will assign you a roommate if one is available.  If a roommate cannot be found, you will be asked to pay a reduced single fee, which is half of the full single supplement.  Please be advised that there are a limited number of single accommodations available.

Seasons in New Zealand are opposite from North America. We operate our trips late spring through summer, which run November through the end of March in New Zealand. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s and nights cool off to the 50s. The weather is variable and changes often. Rain can be expected at some point on the trip; the west coast is notably damp so adequate rain gear is essential.

This trip is rated Moderate [3]. This trip will be enjoyed by anyone who is in good, physical condition and comfortable hiking 4 - 6 hours a day, up to 8 miles. The sea kayaking is designed for beginners. This trip is group participatory, with the trip leaders responsible for meal preparation.

This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A full gear list and pre-departure information is sent upon sign-up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased at the time of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).

We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.

The key to staying comfortable while on an active trip is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. This gear list has been created to help you in choosing your equipment for the trip. Try to bring only what is necessary, as this will help you and the field staff.

Gear Checklist

Things to Consider

• Please remember to always pack essential items such as your passport, money, eyewear, a change of clothing and medications in your carry-on baggage in case your luggage is delayed.
• Laundry facilities are available most nights, making it easy to bring less clothing and wash what you do bring along the way.
• Bring clothing that is light in weight and color, which ventilates and protects you from the sun. It is always good to have a lightweight, long-sleeve fleece or synthetic top, especially for the evenings.
• Always test your layers before a trip. Your outer layer should fit easily over the inside ones without binding and bunching up.
• Make sure boots are broken-in. Thin liner socks worn under regular hiking socks may minimize the risk of blisters. The liner sock should be synthetic, not cotton. Test your sock combination before you go on the trip. Bring your favorite blister-prevention remedy such as Moleskin or Blister Block.
• New Zealand is very strict about checking for high risk biosecurity items so it's a good idea to scrub your hiking boots clean and pack them at the top of your luggage. You may be asked to declare them and it's highly likely that they will be inspected.
• A pack rain cover or large garbage bags provide good protection for your daypack, should it rain.
• If you wear prescription glasses, use a safety cord and bring an extra pair if possible. Contact lens users should also bring an extra set, or bring eyeglasses for a backup.
• We recommend that you carry a photocopy of your passport (the personal id information page) with you and keep it separate from your passport.