Grand Trails of the South Itinerary

GRAND TRAILS OF THE SOUTH

ITINERARY

This is a fully guided small group tour offering what are some of the best outdoor experiences in the most amazing locations New Zealand has to offer. Hiking on New Zealand’s best trails, overnight experiences in stunning surroundings and once in a lifetime activities, all with the comforts of home and the full support of our professional team.

Easygoing activity in the outdoors is a great way to stay fit, while enjoying the beauty of nature with fun, friendly folks just like you, who are looking for memorable active experiences in the best of the great New Zealand outdoors without sacrificing comfort.

LENGTH 13 days GRADE B: 4-5 hours physical activity on some days START Christchurch – 9.30am, Chateau on the Park, 189 Deans Ave, Riccarton, Christchurch FINISH Christchurch or Queenstown DEPARTURES 2020 2021

October 2020: 13, 19 January 2021: 4, 12, 18, 26 November 2020: 2, 10, 16, 24, 30 February 2021: 1, 9, 15, 23 December 2020: 8, 14, 21, 29 March 2021: 1, 9, 15, 29 April 2021: 24 PRICE Christchurch to Christchurch (13 days) - NZ$11,039* Single supplement - NZ$2,529*

*Prices correct at time of publishing. Please refer to website for current pricing.

“ACTIVE BUT NOT OVERWHELMING” “WOW” We truly loved this trip. The agenda was perfect - it covered all the highlights This is truly a unique trip with amazing scenery, first class accommodations of the South Island. The guides are very helpful and attentive. Traveling in a and food, combined with diversity of fun physical activities (hiking, boating, small group is so much better than a large bus experience. kayaking, helicopters, and cave tubing. Wow!). Our guides were fantastic and made this already amazing trip extra special. ~ Michael and Karen A., United States, March 2018 ~ Jack and Maureen L., United States, February 2017 ITINERARY

DAY 1 ARTHUR’S PASS NATIONAL PARK 4km/3-4 hours hiking After introductions and a brief orientation, you depart Christchurch and watch the Canterbury plains disappear into the rear vision mirror as you head into the high-country. Today’s drive traverses stark contrasts from the braided riverbeds of the Canterbury high country, to the massive glacial valleys, pristine alpine lakes and tussock grasslands of the Southern Alps high-country, and on to the lush native rainforest and green pastures of the West Coast. On the way, you will be shown one of our favourite places hidden in the beautiful Arthurs Pass National Park. Breathe in the fresh air as you stretch your legs in this incredibly scenic National Park, following a flowing river to its source, the cascading waters of the dramatic Devils Punchbowl Falls. The walk offers views up to Mount Rolleston and the permanent glaciers that carve their way down the mountain faces - the perfect start to your New Zea- land outdoor adventure. Tonight you stay in Punakaiki. Accommodation: Punakaiki Resort. Includes lunch and dinner.

DAY 2 PAPAROA NATIONAL PARK - PUNAKAIKI 2-2.5 hours hiking Today you will discover one of the most untouched areas of New Zealand. Limestone underlying Paparoa is responsible for the park’s impressive landforms. Running water over many thousands of years has formed an environment known as karst, featuring deep river canyons, sculptured mountain ridges, a large network of caves and sinkholes - add to this a thick lush cover of Gondwanaland Rainforest. Your guides will lead you on a walk through the rainforest to the enormous Nile River Caves - natural cathedral-like caverns. Discovered relatively recently, the cave you will explore is one of the few in the world you can easily walk through and experience in its natural state, the way it was discovered.The large dry upper levels of the cave are simply stunning and a very special place complete with spectacular stalactite & stalagmite creations & galaxies of glowworms that are unequalled. There are two options here – get kitted up in wetsuits to walk then float on a small inflatable raft through the most amazing glowworm caves on the planet or stay dry and walk into the heart of the caves with your guide. This afternoon’s options include hiking a beautiful riverside trail in Paparoa National Park or some downtime at the beach, just a short stroll from your accommodation. Tonight we stay in Punakaiki again. Accommodation: Punakaiki Resort. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 3 WEST COAST - OKARITO LAGOON 2-2.5 hours kayaking First time visitors to New Zealand are always amazed by how stunning the roads are and today you will see this for yourself. Sit back in your seat and enjoy the views – the snowy peaks and glaciers of the Southern Alps, virgin West Coast rainforest and the rugged Tasman Sea coastline – Wow! A quiet kayak is the best way to enjoy the flora, fauna and scenic grandeur of New Zealand’s largest unmodified coastal wetland. Okarito Lagoon is well known for its outstanding birdlife (over 70 species of birds have been recorded here). The lagoon is a common feeding ground for kotuku (white heron) and royal spoonbill, both of which breed in the nearby Waitangiroto Nature Reserve. The lagoon also has diverse and fascinating flora both in the salt marsh and other wetland communities, as well as in the adjacent shrublands, forest and sand dunes. All of this with the mighty Southern Alps as your backdrop. Tonight you saty in Okarito. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

ActiveEarthAdventures.com HikingNewZealand.com PO Box 331, Rangiora 7440, New Zealand Email: [email protected] NZ: 0800 697 232 - Australia: 1800 141 242 - USA: 1 844 681 4351 Rest of World: +64 3 310 8188 DAY 4 GLACIER COUNTYR- MT ASPIRING NATIONAL PARK 2-3 hours hiking At 13 kilometers in length, Fox Glacier is the largest and most accessible of the West Coast glaciers and the terminal valley is impressive in its own right, a real testament to the sheer force of nature. The valleys and lakes around the Fox township are all remnants of the ice age and provide some excellent hiking trails, all under the imposing shadow of New Zealand’s highest peaks. You’ll hike to the terminal face of Franz Josef Glacier and also the Lake Matheson track, for the famous reflections of Mt Cook! You also have the option for a heli hike here too. As you continue travelling down the coast the scenery is impressive all the way. Once over the Haast Pass the views change dramatically as you head into the mountains and bid farewell to the coastline. You follow the Haast River into Mount Aspiring National Park and the Wanaka Lakes district. Stay in Wanaka. Accommodation: Edgewater Resort. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 5 LAKE WANAKA - MOU WAHO ISLAND 2.5 hours hiking Lying close to the centre of Lake Wanaka is Mou Waho Island Nature Reserve which is accessible by a 35 minute boat ride over one of New Zealand’s most stunning waterways. A long time local guide and eco warrior will accompany you on this eco hiking tour. Walk on a well-formed track on a gentle climb through the native bush to near the top of Tyrwhitt Peak. Just before the top you see Arethusa Pool, a small lake on the island with small islands in it. From the top you have a sweeping 360-degree view of Lake Wanaka, the surrounding mountains and valleys. On a hot day you may not be able to resist a dip in the cool crystal clear waters. Your afternoon drive takes you through the Cardona Valley, over the Crown Range into the amazing Wakatipu ba- sin and onto Queenstown. Stay in Queenstown. Acccommodation: Novotel Queenstown Lakeside. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 6 THE ROUTEBURN TRACK

16km/6-7 hours hiking Today will be one of the hiking highlights of the trip. A section of the famous Routeburn Track. Your day starts from Queenstown with a beautiful journey along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to the ‘Head of the Lake’, the most dramatic scenery you’ll ever see. We reckon if you’re coming all the way to New Zealand and not heading to the head of Lake Wakatipu and Glenorchy then you’re missing out. Once on the trail your guides will lead you through the beech forest (lots of Lord of the Rings filming locations around here), alongside the crystal clear river onto Routeburn Flats and for those looking to stretch their legs a bit more, Routeburn Falls. As with all our hikes, there is a lot of flexibility, if you want to push yourself a little or just enjoy a comfortable hike on the flat trail, it is all here. Either way, the scenery is magnificent and your guides are there to take care of you all the way. Stay in Queenstown. Accommodation: Novotel Queenstown Lakeside. Includes breakfast and lunch.

DAY 7 EXPLORE QUEENSTOWN Queenstown offers something for everyone, from adrenalin activities to much more gentle pursuits and in so many ways it encapsulates much of what New Zealand is about. Famed for its international winter ski profile, Queenstown is also a brilliant spring, summer and fall destination.

ActiveEarthAdventures.com HikingNewZealand.com PO Box 331, Rangiora 7440, New Zealand Email: [email protected] NZ: 0800 697 232 - Australia: 1800 141 242 - USA: 1 844 681 4351 Rest of World: +64 3 310 8188 Today is yours to make the most of Queenstown’s scenic beauty, easy walks, and endless opportunities to relax. You might like to try – fishing, golfing, gold panning, wine tasting, or boating. One thing is certain you won’t run out of things to do and your guides will be on hand to make sure you have all the information and support to make the most of your day. Stay in Queenstown. Accommodation: Novotel Queenstown Lakeside. Includes breakfast.

DAY 8 FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK - MILFORD SOUND After a relaxed start to the day you’re off to begin three fabulous days exploring the most pristine corners of World Heritage New Zealand – Fiordland National Park. Your day starts with a drive, famous for its stunning scenery, down to the southern end of Lake Wakatipu and on to Te Anau. You’ll get your first glimpse of the glorious Fiordland National Park on your afternoon hike along the Kepler Track . This is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, renowned for its vivid green moss and stunning mountain ranges. You’ll follow the Waiau River as it weaves through native beech forest, emerging out onto a spectacular viewpoint at the lakeside Moturau Hut. There, you’ll enjoy views of the beautiful Lake Manapouri. After you’ve had your fill of the vista, you’ll head back to Te Anau for the night.

Tomorrow, you’ll commence the pinnacle experience of the tour, the Fiordland Experience, where you will stay right in the heart of Fiordland National Park. Accommodation: Distinction Te Anau. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 9 MILFORD TRACK - MILFORD SOUND SEA KAYAK OR CRUISE - MARTINS BAY 3-4 hours hiking Today will be one of the highlights of your tour! Moody and dramatic, Milford Sound is simply stunning and offers what is surely the most spectacular fiord scenery in the southern hemisphere. Enjoy a nature cruise on Milford Sound. This is your chance to learn more about the unique Fiordland environment from your Milford Sound Expert on board, while enjoying the sights and sounds of waterfalls tumbling down around you.

In the afternoon, your scenic flight over the rugged Fiordland backcountry into Martins Bay is simply awe-inspiring. Firstly you fly out into Milford Sound, gaining a bird’s eye view of its pure majesty with massive vertical granite walls rising from the sea, waterfalls cascading either side... then over the mighty Darran Mountain Range across the Hollyford Valley and into stunning Martins Bay. Explore the Martins Bay area on foot, learning about how early Maori used the valley as a greenstone transportation corridor and the historical sites of ill-fated European settlement. Your guide will also highlight the plant-life of this unique environment, helping you to discover the diversity of this truly remote area. Your afternoon hike takes you to the Long Reef seal colony where you can view the New Zealand fur seal at close quarters in total seclusion, a totally natural wildlife experience. You then take an exhilarating jetboat ride back to your wilderness accommodation for the night. Accommodation: Martins Bay Lodge, Fiordland National Park. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 10 HOLLYFORD TRACK 19km/5-6 hours hiking Regarded by many as New Zealand’s most beautiful wilderness valley, this is the perfect setting for your final incredible walking experience. Your adventure today starts with a jetboat across Lake McKerrow before your guides lead you on your day’s hiking through the World Heritage beauty of the Hollyford Track. Stepping into the Hollyford Valley is literally like entering a lost world, it feels like a

ActiveEarthAdventures.com HikingNewZealand.com PO Box 331, Rangiora 7440, New Zealand Email: [email protected] NZ: 0800 697 232 - Australia: 1800 141 242 - USA: 1 844 681 4351 Rest of World: +64 3 310 8188 prehistoric wilderness untouched for thousands of years! The Hollyford Track is the only major track in Fiordland that is consistently at a low altitude, undulating gently through native forests, beside picturesque lakes and roaring waterfalls as you shadow the swift, clear waters of the Hollyford River. Naturally spectacular, this valley has an unparalleled diversity of vegetation and wildlife from 1,000-year-old giant rimu trees to ancient beech forest, hundreds of intricate ferns, crimson southern rata and the emerald mosses and velvet lichens of the under-story. Stay in Te Anau for the night. Accommodation: Distinction Te Anau. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 11 AORAKI/MT COOK NATIONAL PARK After a relaxed start this morning, you’ll make your way to the gorgeous mountain setting of Gibbston Valley, where you’ll enjoy a selection of locally-produced wines and a leisurely lunch.

After lunch, you’re heading for the Mount Cook region, a beautiful area of highland turquoise lakes surrounded by vast fields of golden tussock, gazed upon by the spectacular Southern Alps. With a settlement population of less than 100 people and building restrictions enforced, Aoraki/Mt Cook offers a tranquility seldom found, its uninterrupted natural views will stop you in your tracks. Stay the night in Aoraki/ Mt Cook village. Accommodation: Hermitage Hotel. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 12 AORAKI/MT COOK NATIONAL PARK Hike 3 hours This national park is home to not only New Zealand’s highest and most sacred peak, Aoraki/Mt Cook, but an impressive 19 peaks topping more than 3000m. You start the day with a boat ride across the terminal lake to the ancient ice face of the Tasman Glacier. Then in the afternoon there are a couple of great options to choose from. A walk on the Hooker Valley track to the Hooker Lake, complete with icebergs and glimpses of Mt Cook towering above. Or you can relax in Mt Cook village which has excellent cafes and things to do. Alternatively you can opt for a stunning helicopter ride (additional cost) to the Tasman Glacier for a guided walk on the ice and snow of New Zealand’s largest glacier. Whichever option you choose, you won’t be disappointed. After a full day of activities, we’ll meet up and return to the Hermitage (your accommodation) for dinner and a chance to trade stories of the day. You’re staying within one of the best Dark Sky Reserves in the world, so tonight you can simply walk outside to enjoy some of the best stargazing anywhere. Accommodation: Hermitage Hotel. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 13 MACKENZIE COUNTRY - CANTERBURY PLAINS The final day and we’ve saved some of the best views for last! You’ll stop along the shores of Lakes Pukaki and Tekapo as you journey through the Mackenzie Country and then across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. Marvel at the lake’s distinctive palette of blues, the perfect backdrop for those photos you’ll treasure for years to come. Drop offs in the afternoon at Christchurch airport (approximately 4pm) or city accommodation. Includes breakfast and lunch.

GRADE B TRANSPORT • Up to 4-5 hours of physical activity per day The type of transport on your tour depends on the size of • At times carrying a backpack of 4-5kgs the group, but for a typical group of 12 guests a late model • Tracks generally in good condition 18 seater coach is used so there’s plenty of room for • Altitude gains of up to 600m (2000ft) on harder days everyone. • No hiking experience necessary Being such a compact country, it’s possible to drive for just • Reasonable standard of fitness required a few hours and be in a totally different environment, that’s the beauty of New Zealand. You will never spend all day on a coach, on days you are travelling from one destination to the next we generally spend half a day maximum on the road GUIDES AND SAFETY and the other half day enjoying outdoor activity. Some of the Your guides will be two of roads we travel on will match any in the world for scenery; our hand-picked, we always have time to make plenty of photo stops. experienced and passionate Kiwis with a wide array of life experiences. From spotting native wildlife to bringing the past alive with stories from the land, from adjusting gear on hikes to providing that little extra encouragement during the last mile, the connections you make with your guides will last a lot longer than the duration of this tour.

ACCOMMODATION Even though you visit some remote wilderness areas, there is no compromise on comfort. All the accommodation offers FOOD very good service, a friendly atmosphere and are clean and comfortable. All rooms have private facilities* and Over the last few years a real food culture has developed in hairdryers are available in most locations. They are generally New Zealand and introducing you to this side of our country of a 4 star tourist class hotel, motel or lodge and all have is just as important as the stunning outdoors. All breakfasts Internet access** and lunches are included in the tour, as are most dinners. On a few nights dinner is not included to give you a chance *Martins Bay Wilderness Lodge to explore for yourself or relax in your room after your day’s Set amidst spectacular scenery our well-appointed private activity. Breakfasts are at your accommodation before lodge at Martins Bay is exclusively for our groups use. It heading off for the day’s activity. Healthy Kiwi breakfasts has comfortable beds in twin rooms, duvets and pillows are are accompanied by lots of fresh fruit. Lunches are either in supplied – no sleeping bags or dorm rooms here. Separate the best little cafes or restaurants en route or a wholesome mens and women’s bathrooms with hot showers and packed lunch is prepared to last you all day on your activity. flushing toilets are available right next to your room - fresh Dinners are in fabulous local restaurants using the best towels, soap, shampoo and conditioner are supplied. There regional produce. is a state of the art drying room that guarantees your morning gets off to a warm and dry start. Generally, as long as we have advanced notice we can cater for any special dietary requirements you may have. If you **Satellite phone and email access available in case of have any concerns please don’t hesitate to contact us. emergency.

In some remote locations where no other alternatives are available we may use a 3 star lodge or a fully serviced remote lodge. These will be clearly noted in your itinerary.

ADDITIONAL COSTS Travel Insurance Bring some pocket money for souvenirs and a few extras It is suggested that clients take out comprehensive travel here and there. insurance. Some evening meals. Disclaimer Optional Activities - glacier helihike. DISCHARGE OF LIABILITY You acknowledge that the nature of travel and activities BOOKING CONDITIONS undertaken while travelling is adventurous and that as such tours and activities undertaken may involve a significant Payment amount of personal risk. These include injury, disease, loss For bookings four or more months in advance of the or damage to property, inconvenience, and discomfort. You departure a 25% deposit can be paid with the remainder due further acknowledge that you are fully aware of the risks of 65 days prior to your trip. For bookings within four months of injury associated with your participation in these various the departure, full payment is required. activities and agree to voluntarily assume such risk of injury.

Cancellations It is a fundamental condition of this contract between us and 90 days or more before departure: your choice of either a you that to the extent permitted by law you discharge us transfer to a different departure date (subject to our date (including but not limited to our directors, employees, changes provision below), or cancellation fee of 15% of the contractors, suppliers and agents) from any liability for any trip cost. damage, death or injury to person or property whatsoever 89 to 60 days or more prior to departure - 15% cancellation arising out of or incidental to your tour, whether or not such fee damage or personal injury is caused or contributed to by us. 59 to 31 days prior to departure - 50% cancellation fee You also agree to make no claim against us arising out of the 30 days or less prior to departure - NO REFUND tour and further agree that no third party may make a claim After scheduled departure date - NO REFUND through you or on your behalf. PACKING LIST

New Zealand’s weather is changeable and extremely cold weather can be experienced at any time of year, especially in the General clothing mountains. Huts/camps vary in altitude from sea level to over 1000 metres. It is necessary to have warm clothing. Jeans are not 1 pair jeans or other casual trousers suitable for hiking. □ □ 2 pairs shorts (or a skirt) ESSENTIAL ITEMS □ 3-4 Shirts (think layering for colder days; quick-dry clothes are best) □ A good waterproof rain jacket and pants (Gore-tex or similar) □ 2 button up front long sleeve shirts □ Polar Tec or similar windproof fleece jacket / sweater □ 1 sleep shirt & sleep shorts (or whatever you sleep in) □ Non-cotton base layers (top and bottom); choose fabrics such as polypropylene, Capilene or Thermax. We use and recommend □ 1 light sweat shirt or long-sleeve t-shirt Merino wool. □ 1 swimming suit □ 1 pair hiking boots or strong walking shoes (waterproof, with □ underwear ankle support) □ 4-5 pairs socks both thin and thick □ 2 pairs thick walking socks □ 1 pair sport sandals (like Teva’s) □ Short sleeved shirts □ 1 or 2 changes of smart casual clothing for restaurant dining □ Long sleeved shirts □ Sunscreen and lip balm □ Warm hat and gloves □ Toiletries □ Sunhat / cap / sunglasses □ Insect repellent □ Lightweight, quick dry long pants (or shorts if you prefer) □ Sunglasses □ Mid sized backpack □ Camera and binoculars □ Water bottle or camelback □ Dry bag for clothes / valuables □ Walking poles (supplied free of charge)