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New Zealand

New Zealand Epic Hikes – 15-Day Guided Hiking Tour of Both Islands

Experience the ultimate New Zealand hiking adventure — from the volcanic landscapes of the North Island to the alpine peaks and fiords of the South Island.

Group Guided

New Zealand Epic Hikes – 15-Day Guided Hiking Tour of Both Islands

Experience the ultimate New Zealand hiking adventure — from the volcanic landscapes of the North Island to the alpine peaks and fiords of the South Island.

The New Zealand Grand Hikes is a 15-day guided hiking tour that immerses you in the country’s most breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and iconic trails. Starting in Auckland, you’ll journey south through the glowworm caves of Waitomo, the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, and the volcanic terrain of Tongariro National Park before flying to the South Island for more time on the trail.

Your South Island adventure features the golden beaches of Abel Tasman National Park, the lush rainforests and dramatic coastline of Punakaiki, and the alpine grandeur of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Aspiring National Parks. Explore sections of New Zealand’s Great Walks, including the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Routeburn Track, and Kepler Track, without the need to carry a heavy pack.

Between hikes, relax in well-appointed hotels and lodges, enjoy fresh local cuisine, and travel in comfort by luxury minibus and scenic flight. From volcanic plateaus to glacial lakes, from coastal tracks to fiordland wilderness, this small-group hiking holiday is designed for active travelers seeking an immersive, all-inclusive experience of New Zealand’s natural beauty.

Highlights:

  • Hike in six national parks across both islands
  • Iconic tracks: Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Abel Tasman Coast Track, Routeburn Track, Kepler Track
  • Scenic flight from the North to the South Island
  • Glacier boat cruise among icebergs on Tasman Glacier lake
  • Milford Sound cruise through towering fiords
  • Expert local guides, small group size, and all activities included
  • Start: Auckland – 6:30am, Rydges Hotel foyer, 59 Federal Street, Auckland CBD
  • Finish: Queenstown – approx. 5:00pm
  • Accommodation: Hotels and Lodges
  • Departures 2025: November 20
  • Departures 2026: January 29 | February 12, 26 | March 12
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    Trip Itinerary

    Day 1 – Auckland to Rotorua: Waitomo Glowworm Caves & Limestone Canyon

    Hiking Distance: up to 2 km (1.3 miles) | 2 hours | Elevation: +/-60 m (200 ft)

    Your Ultimate New Zealand Hikes adventure begins in the heart of Auckland. Meet your North Island guide and fellow travelers at 6:30am in the Rydges Hotel foyer before journeying south through the lush farmland of the Waikato region alongside the Waikato River.

    After a café stop, explore the Ruakuri Cave in the Waitomo region, where intricate limestone formations and thousands of tiny glowworms illuminate the cavern ceiling like a starlit sky. Back above ground, enjoy a short loop walk through an impressive limestone canyon.

    Arrive in Rotorua late afternoon — New Zealand’s geothermal wonderland and the cultural heart of Māori tourism. Enjoy a welcome dinner in town.

    Overnight: Distinction Hotel, Rotorua (Lunch & dinner included)

    Day 2 – Rotorua to Lake Tarawera: Lakeside Hiking & Hot Creek Dip

    Hiking Distance: 12 km (7.2 miles) | 4 hours | Elevation: +480 m / -250 m (+1,500 ft / -900 ft)

    Take a short drive to the pristine shores of Lake Tarawera, where a scenic water taxi carries you to the far end of the lake. Hike back along the shoreline beneath towering tree ferns and dramatic ignimbrite cliffs, stopping to swim at hidden pumice beaches.

    Enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding volcanic landscape and, if time allows, soak in a naturally heated creek along the trail. Back in Rotorua, stroll the Redwoods Trail or visit the historic waterfront before an evening of Māori cultural performance and traditional cuisine.

    Overnight: Distinction Hotel, Rotorua (Breakfast, lunch & dinner included)

    Day 3 – Rotorua to Tongariro National Park: Thermal Wonders & Taranaki Falls

    Hiking Distance: 10 km (5.5 miles) | 2–4 hours | Elevation: +/-200 m (600 ft)

    Begin with a walk through Rotorua’s geothermal wonderlands — bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and mineral-rich hot springs. Then, pause at Huka Falls to witness the Waikato River thunder through a narrow gorge.

    After lunch in Taupō, continue to Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the afternoon, hike to Taranaki Falls, cascading 20 metres over an ancient lava flow.

    Overnight: Hotel at the gateway to Tongariro National Park (Breakfast & dinner included)

    Day 4 – Tongariro Alpine Crossing or Village Exploration

    Hiking Distance: up to 21 km (12 miles) | 7–8 hours | Elevation: +900 m / -1,250 m (+3,000 ft / -4,100 ft)

    Today offers one of the best day hikes in the world — the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Follow a well-maintained trail through volcanic craters, past steaming vents, and around the vibrant Emerald Lakes, with panoramic views across the central plateau.

    Prefer a more relaxed day? Enjoy shorter walks such as the Soda Springs or Taranaki Falls tracks, or visit the National Park Visitor Centre. End the day with a celebratory dinner.

    Overnight: Hotel at the gateway to Tongariro National Park (Breakfast, lunch & dinner included)

    Day 5 – Tongariro to Wellington: New Zealand’s Capital City

    Rest your legs as you travel south through rolling farmland to Wellington. Stroll the picturesque waterfront, visit the world-class Te Papa Museum, or wander the city’s quirky neighborhoods. Wellington’s vibrant food scene offers plenty of options for dinner on your own.

    Overnight: Copthorne Hotel, Wellington (Breakfast included)

    Day 6 – Wellington to Nelson: Scenic Flight & Botanical Hill Hike

    Hiking Distance: up to 3.3 km (2 miles) | 1–1.5 hours | Elevation: +/-170 m (560 ft)

    Enjoy a relaxed morning in Wellington before boarding a scenic flight across Cook Strait to the South Island. On arrival in Nelson, meet your South Island guides and fellow hikers.

    Take a short hike up Botanical Hill, the “Centre of New Zealand,” for panoramic views of Tasman Bay, or explore Nelson’s vibrant arts and café scene. In the evening, share a welcome dinner with your new group.

    Overnight: Rutherford Hotel, Nelson (Dinner included)

    Days 7 & 8

    Day 7 – Nelson to Abel Tasman National Park: Golden Beaches & Coastal Trails

    Hiking Distance: up to 12.2 km (7.6 miles) | 4 hours | Elevation: +/-700 m (2,300 ft)

    After breakfast, travel to Kaiteriteri Beach and board a water taxi for a scenic cruise along the Abel Tasman National Park coastline, passing golden sand beaches, rugged granite headlands, and forested islands.

    Step ashore at Bark Bay to walk a section of the world-famous Abel Tasman Coast Track, winding through lush native forest and across gentle ridges to Torrent Bay. Pause at Cleopatra’s Pool, where adventurous hikers can slide down a naturally formed rock hydro-slide.

    End at Anchorage and return by water taxi to Kaiteriteri, then back to Nelson for an evening exploring the city’s vibrant dining scene.

    Overnight: Rutherford Hotel, Nelson (Breakfast, lunch & dinner included)

    Day 8 – Nelson to Punakaiki: Natural Flames & West Coast Sunset

    Hiking Distance: up to 6 km (3.7 miles) | 2 hours | Elevation: +/-170 m (560 ft)

    En route to the rugged West Coast, hike to the unique Natural Flames — a phenomenon where flames have burned in the forest since the 1920s. Surrounded by native ferns and beech forest, enjoy a true Kiwi experience with billy tea and hot cakes cooked over the flames.

    Continue via the Buller River Gorge to Punakaiki, known for its dramatic coastal scenery. Time permitting, visit the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes for sunset.

    Overnight: Scenic Hotel Punakaiki (Breakfast, lunch & dinner included)

    Days 9 & 10

    Day 9 – Punakaiki to Methven: Paparoa Track & Castle Hill

    Hiking Distance: up to 9.6 km (6 miles) | 3–3.5 hours | Elevation: +/-360 m (1,180 ft)

    Hike the Inland Pack Track, now part of the Paparoa Great Walk, through limestone canyons, rainforest, and nikau palm groves. Swim in crystal-clear pools before crossing the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass.

    Stop at Kura Tawhiti (Castle Hill) to explore giant limestone boulders, a site of Māori cultural significance and a rock-climbing paradise. Arrive in Methven, a charming alpine village.

    Overnight: Ski Time, Methven (Breakfast, lunch & dinner included)

    Day 10 – Methven to Aoraki/Mount Cook: Lake Tekapo & Mt John Summit

    Hiking Distance: 8.2 km (5.1 miles) | 3 hours | Elevation: +/-380 m (1,280 ft)

    Travel through the Canterbury Plains into the Mackenzie Basin to Lake Tekapo. Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd before hiking to the summit of Mt John for panoramic views of turquoise lakes, braided rivers, and the Southern Alps.

    Arrive in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and settle in for a two-night stay surrounded by New Zealand’s highest peaks.

    Overnight: Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park (Breakfast, lunch & dinner included)

    Day 11 – Aoraki/Mount Cook: Sealy Tarns or Hooker Valley

    Hiking Distance: 5.3 km (3.3 miles) | 3 hours | Elevation: +/-590 m (1,940 ft)
    or 10.2 km (6.3 miles) | 3 hours | Elevation: +/-270 m (890 ft)

    Wake up to the alpine grandeur of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Choose between:

    • Sealy Tarns Track – a challenging climb with panoramic views of Mt Sefton’s hanging glaciers and the full Hooker Valley.
    • Hooker Valley Track – a gentler, equally scenic route across swing bridges to glacier-fed lakes at the base of Aoraki/Mt Cook.

    Alternatively, visit the world-class Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre and learn about the region’s mountaineering history.

    Overnight: Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park (Breakfast & lunch included)

    Day 12 – Aoraki/Mount Cook to Wānaka: Tasman Glacier Boat Cruise

    Hiking Distance: 2.9 km (1.8 miles) | 1 hour | Elevation: +/-70 m (230 ft)

    Travel into the Tasman Valley for a short hike through glacial moraine before boarding a custom-built boat to cruise among icebergs on the Tasman Glacier lake. Witness the dramatic landscape as the glacier continues its natural retreat.

    Journey south through the Mackenzie Basin, cross the sweeping Lindis Pass, and arrive in Wānaka. En route, stop at a boutique vineyard for a wine tasting in the heart of Central Otago.

    Overnight: Oakridge Resort, Wānaka (Breakfast, lunch & dinner included)

    Day 13 – Wānaka to Te Anau: Diamond Lake & Rocky Mountain

    Hiking Distance: up to 7.2 km (4.5 miles) | 3 hours | Elevation: +/-650 m (2,130 ft)

    Begin the day with a scenic drive along Lake Wānaka into Mount Aspiring National Park. Hike the Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain Track for sweeping views over the lake, Southern Alps, and Mt Aspiring/Tititea. Easier loop options are available for a more relaxed pace.

    Continue over the Crown Range Road, New Zealand’s highest main road, and follow Lake Wakatipu’s shoreline to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park.

    Overnight: Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas (Breakfast, lunch & dinner included)

    Days 14 & 15

    Day 14 – Te Anau to Milford Sound: Routeburn Track & Fiord Cruise

    Hiking Distance: 7.2 km (4.5 miles) | 3 hours | Elevation: +/-490 m (1,610 ft)

    Travel the famous Milford Road, stopping at The Divide to hike a section of the Routeburn Track to Key Summit, with views of the Humboldt and Darran Mountains. If weather obscures the summit, explore shorter trails in the lush Hollyford Valley.

    Arrive at Milford Sound for a nature cruise beneath towering granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Keep an eye out for marine wildlife such as dusky dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, and, with luck, the rare Fiordland crested penguin.

    Overnight: Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas (Breakfast, lunch & dinner included)

    Day 15 – Te Anau to Queenstown: Kepler Track & Farewell Lunch

    Hiking Distance: 9.8 km (6.1 miles) | 3 hours | Elevation: +/-180 m (430 ft)

    Hike a scenic section of the Kepler Track along the shores of Lake Manapouri, renowned for its small islands, sheltered coves, and stunning mountain backdrop.

    Return north toward Queenstown, stopping in wine country for a celebratory farewell lunch before arriving in the late afternoon. Your tour concludes with drop-off at select Queenstown locations.

    Overnight: Tour ends (Breakfast & lunch included)

    Optional Adventures in Queenstown

    Queenstown offers endless post-tour adventures — from thrilling jet boat rides and New Zealand’s highest bungy jump to peaceful wine tours and kayaking on Lake Wakatipu.

    Additional Trip Info

    Activities & Experiences

    • All guided hikes and walks as per the itinerary, including:
      • Tongariro Alpine Crossing
      • Abel Tasman Coast Track (with water taxi transfers)
      • Paparoa Track section hike
      • Hooker Valley Track or Sealy Tarns hike
      • Routeburn Track (Key Summit)
      • Kepler Track section hike
    • Glacier boat trip on Tasman Glacier lake
    • Milford Sound nature cruise
    • Māori cultural performance and traditional dinner
    • Wai-o-tapu Thermal Wonderland visit
    • Scenic flight between North and South Islands

    Accommodation & Meals

    • 14 nights in well-appointed hotels and lodges (twin share, ensuite bathrooms)
    • 14 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 12 dinners (as per itinerary)
    • Occasional free evenings to explore local dining in cities and towns

    Transport

    • Comfortable travel in a luxury minibus with secure luggage trailer
    • All land transfers as per itinerary
    • Scenic inter-island flight from Wellington to Nelson

    Expert Guides & Support

    • Experienced local hiking guides with extensive outdoor knowledge
    • All park fees and permits
    • Daily trail briefings and flexible hiking options for varied fitness levels
    • Support for charging devices while on the road

    Additional Inclusions

    • Drinking water, snacks, and picnic setups on hiking days
    • Use of walking poles (on request)
    • All activities outlined in the itinerary are included in the tour price
  • International flights to/from New Zealand
  • Domestic flights or travel before tour start and after tour finish (other than the scenic inter-island flight included in the itinerary)
  • Travel Insurance - We recommend  Insuremytrip, or Global Rescue
  • Some meals as listed
  • Alcoholic beverages and drinks not otherwise included with meals
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, souvenirs, and additional snacks
  • Optional activities in Queenstown after the tour concludes (e.g., jet boating, bungy jumping, wine tours)
  • Single supplement (available on request)
  • Travel, Comfort & Tour Experience

    Transport – Scenic Journeys in Comfort

    On this South Island guided hiking tour, daily driving times vary, with some days featuring just a short transfer and others longer scenic drives. On average, expect 2–3 hours of comfortable travel in a luxury minibus towing a secure, lockable trailer for your luggage, hiking gear, and supplies. Along the way, enjoy the ever-changing landscapes — from coastal vistas to alpine passes — with frequent stops for photo opportunities, boutique vineyards, or even a memorable ice cream shop. Both sealed and unsealed roads are part of the adventure.

    Expert Guides & Safety

    Our New Zealand hiking guides are passionate outdoor professionals with extensive experience in the country’s wild and beautiful backcountry. They’ll lead every walk in the itinerary, share local stories, and ensure your trip is safe, fun, and inspiring. Whether it’s setting up a picnic in a hidden spot or pointing out unique flora and fauna, your guides are there for you. Prefer a slower pace or extra challenge? They can recommend shorter or longer self-guided options on certain days.

    Hiking Grade – Moderate Challenge, Maximum Reward

    • 4–5 hours of physical activity per day
    • Occasional backpack weight of 4–5 kg
    • Well-maintained trails with some elevation gain (up to 600 m/2,000 ft)
    • No prior hiking experience necessary — just a good level of fitness and a love of the outdoors

    Accommodation – Quality Comfort After a Day’s Hike

    Stay in well-appointed hotels and lodges chosen for their charm, comfort, and proximity to nature. All rooms feature private ensuite bathrooms. Most accommodations are twin share or doubles, with single supplements available for those wanting extra privacy. These stays are perfect for travelers who appreciate a high standard of accommodation after a day on the trail.

    Laundry & Charging

    Laundry facilities are available most nights (self-service or hotel laundry service at an additional cost). Devices such as cameras and phones can be charged both in the vehicle (bring your adapter) and at your accommodations.

    Meals – Fresh, Local & Delicious

    Nearly all meals are included. Breakfasts fuel your day with fresh, wholesome ingredients. For lunch, enjoy gourmet picnics in scenic locations, prepared from our mobile kitchen trailer. Dinners are a mix of lodge restaurants, local town eateries, and occasionally unique dining experiences off the beaten path. When based in cities, you’ll have free evenings to explore New Zealand’s vibrant dining scene on your own.

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