New Zealand: South Island Adventure

From the mountains to the sea, New Zealand’s entire South Island feels like one enormous national park—no wonder Kiwis celebrate any opportunity to “have a go” at outdoor adventure! We discover firsthand the natural beauty that inspires them as we swim among wild dolphins at Kaikoura, scramble on the towering ice formations of Fox Glacier, hike through glades of nikau palms at Paparoa, and savor the wonder of world-famed Milford Sound on a spectacular overnight cruise—the best way to experience this magical place. Thrilling adventures abound, yet our journey also reveals the unique culture, friendly Kiwi character, and wonderfully unhurried pace of this nature-blessed land.

Itinerary at a Glance

For a more complete description, Download Full Detailed Itinerary

Days 1-3
Kaikoura Coast / Swim with Dolphins / Marlborough Sounds

From Christchurch, we head to Kaikoura, a fishing town on the stunning north coast. We walk along the beautiful Kaikoura Peninsula, then head out by boat to swim and snorkel with some famous local personalities—the playful dusky dolphins who frolic close to shore in pods of hundreds. At the top of the South Island, we visit Marlborough Sounds, with a picnic and wine tasting amid the chardonnay and sauvignon blanc vineyards.

Days 4-5
Abel Tasman National Park

At glorious Abel Tasman National Park, we hike a coastal trail through tree fern forests, onto soft, powdery beaches, past aquamarine lagoons, and up into headlands, with fantastic coastal views all along the way. We also enjoy beachcombing and optional sea kayaking in this extraordinary setting.

Days 6-7
West Coast / Paparoa National Park / Hokitika

Circling the West Coast, we hike at Cape Foulwind, with its breeding colony of New Zealand fur seals, and follow trails through luxuriant rainforests at Paparoa, whose wild coastline features rugged cliffs, water-sculpted blowholes, and the famous limestone stacks at Punakaiki. We also visit Hokitika, a former gold mining town now the jade-carving capital of New Zealand.

Days 8-11
Fox Glacier / Wanaka / Mount Aspiring / Queenstown

Fox Glacier, flanked by emerald rainforests and framed by the snowy giants of the Southern Alps, is the setting for our exciting glacier walk, a chance for up-close perspectives of this river of ice. After a stroll around Lake Matheson with views of Mt. Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, we head to the picturesque town of Wanaka. In the alpine grandeur of Mount Aspiring National Park, we hike through a magnificent river gorge to a natural amphitheater where hundreds of waterfalls pour over vertical cliffs and from hanging sheets of ice. On Day 11, we explore lively Queenstown.

Days 12-13
Fiordland / Milford Sound Overnight Cruise

Set among the soaring peaks of Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is one of the world’s most sublime meetings of mountains and sea, with 4,000-foot-high walls rising directly from the water’s edge. We head out into the Sound by boat for an overnight cruise, where we anchor in a sheltered cove beneath towering Mount Pembroke and try our hand at sea kayaking. At dawn, serenity envelops us as the morning light falls across the sheer granite peaks. Depart Day 13 via Queenstown, or join our Hollyford Track extension.

For a more complete description, Download Full Detailed Itinerary

What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 2+, Easy to Moderate. This is a trip for people who enjoy hiking. In general you can set your own pace while hiking, and there is no need to keep up with the fastest walkers. Although you carry only a daypack, there are some steep ascents and descents and some sections that cross rough or rocky trails. On one or two occasions, our hiking routes cross an estuary or small stream and you will likely get your shoes wet (bring some Tevas or shoes appropriate for walking through water). For your own enjoyment, we recommend that you make a special effort to be in good physical condition for the trip. Daily walking and/or regular hiking (or using a stair-climbing machine at your gym) are excellent preparatory exercises. You should wear sturdy, well-broken-in hiking boots for maximum comfort on the trail.

Our vehicle touring is over good roads in a comfortable bus. The trip is designed to make the most of our time exploring the diverse landscapes of the South Island. We stay in a range of delightful accommodations along the way, including a charming bed-and-breakfast, a luxurious lodge accessible only by water taxi, and private cabins on a wonderful Milford Sound cruise boat.

Explanation of Trip Levels