Womens Adventure Tour

Sample New Zealand Trip: your itinerary will vary depending on your departure date

Day 1: Christchurch – Arthurs Pass

Depart Christchurch and travel to the Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area where you will hike the Kura Tahiti Route (3.5 miles, 800′ elevation gain).  This are is considered sacred by local Maori , wander through this geological treasure, where the rolling green hills are dotted with giant limestone monoliths. Travel to Arthurs Pass Wilderness Lodge and settle in, you will stay here for 2 nights.  It is a secluded resort and working sheep station.

Day 2: Arthurs Pass

Today you will hike to Bealey Spur, past alpine wetlands to a historic high country sheep station then climb through lush beech forest with views of surrounding snowcapped peaks and river.  This day is especially enjoyed by bird lovers, you can look for NZ’s smallest bird (The Rifleman) as well as Grey Warblers, Harrier Hawks, Bellbirds and the cheeky native alpine birds (The Kea).

Day 3: Arthurs Pass – Franz Josef

Depart for the trailhead after breakfast and from Arthurs Pass village, ascend through a mountain beech forest to a magical alpine garden in a glacier valley. You will be surrounded by mountains, as you make your way to the summit of Arthur’s Pass. In summer you may be lucky enough to see brilliant flowers such as the NZ lily, Alpine Hebe, Alpine Daisy, Coprosmas and Spiky Spaniard plants. Head south along the incredible West Coast to Franz Josef,  stopping at Hokitika, a former gold rush town that is now famous for crafts and jade carvings.  Franz Josef  is the gateway town to Glacier Country and the Southern Alps. Overnight at a rainforest retreat.

Day 4: Franz Josef, Lake Moeraki & Lake Matheson

Hike to Franz Josef Glacier, one of the few glaciers in the world that descends into a temperate rainforest. In the past century the glacier has had a steady loss of ice and snow making it withdraw to higher elevations no longer safely reachable by foot. Your day here is at your leisure to discover the area as you choose (optional, not included) you may take a scenic helicopter flight, or hit a trail for a guided hike to explore the glacial valley (if trail conditions permit). From the trailhead, walk up the steep valley for magnificent views. Follow the trail as it winds through rainforest past a small kettle lake that reflects the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon travel to your next destination, Lake Matheson, near the town of Fox Glacier.  Stroll around this beautiful lake, enjoying a mostly forested trail with fantastic flora and bird viewing. On a clear day, New Zealand’s highest peaks (Mount Cook and Mount Tasman) can be seen reflected in the lake’s naturally dark waters!

Day 5: Lake Moeraki

Today is yours to explore the area surrounding your lodge which is in the heart of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage area. Naturalists at the lodge offer a wide variety of activities depending on the weather and season. (One guided activity is included, additional activities are at your own expense). You can choose to hike through the rainforest, kayak across the lake or explore well-marked trails followed by an invigorating swim. Take a guided walk to Munro Beach looking for pounamu, New Zealand’s native jade while enjoying views of the Tasman Sea and the sounds of pounding surf.

Days 6-7: Wanaka

Stroll the shore of Lake Hawea and visit the bustling town of Wanaka. Experience jaw-dropping Milford Sound, New Zealand’s most famous fjord (optional excursion, additional expense). Discover the stunning landscape of the surrounding Alps and spectacular views of Lake Wanaka. Wind through a dazzling valley and traverse a swing bridge to the Rob Roy hanging glacier, the quintessential NZ hiking experience!

Days 8-9: Central Otago Region

Explore the Central Otago wine region, famous for producing exceptional Pinot Noir.  Amble among the Gibbston Valley vineyards and taste local wines. Discover the charm of historic Arrowtown, a small gold mining town. Extend your adventure in picturesque Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital situated by Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by breathtaking views of the Remarkables mountain range. Your last night is at the luxury Millbrook Resort before transferring to Queenstown Airport.