The Grand Explorer

Day 1 – Welcome & day walk on the Kepler Track

After meeting your guides and fellow travellers in Queenstown, you’ll embark on your long-awaited New Zealand adventure. This morning we'll head to Fiordland National Park and your first Great Walk, The Kepler Track. Known for its glacier-carved fiords, rugged granite mountains, and otherworldly moss-covered forests, Fiordland National Park is the perfect start to your New Zealand trip with us!

Hike the Kepler Track

The Kepler Track is one of New Zealand's 10 Great Walks and is renowned for its vivid green moss, lush beech forest, and stunning mountain ranges. Today we'll walk along a pleasant section through glorious native beech forest.

Afterward, we’ll head to our accommodation in Te Anau. You'll have the chance to relax before tomorrow’s adventures, or take a self-guided walk along Lake Te Anau, the second largest lake in New Zealand, straight from your hotel room!

Tonight we stay at Distinction Lakefront*

Day 2 – Day walk on the Milford Track and cruise Milford Sound

Today, we’ll journey through some of the most spectacular and dramatic views in the country. We leave Te Anau and head to Milford Sound, the Eighth Wonder of the World. There are many highlights along the drive, including the glacier-carved Eglinton Valley, the Divide and Homer Tunnel. Keep an eye out for the cheeky Kea, NZ’s alpine parrot.

When we arrive in Milford Sound, we’ll board a small boat that will take us across the fiord to the world-famous Milford Track, your second Great Walk of the trip. We’ll walk through this unique World Heritage area, underneath a canopy of towering, emerald-green ferns, to the tumbling falls of Giant’s Gate. Be sure to take a moment to listen to the birdsong that echoes through the forest.

This afternoon, we’ll take a nature cruise on Milford Sound. We’ll check out Bowen Falls, Sinbad Gully and the dramatic Mitre Peak, as we make our way towards the Tasman Sea. This is your chance to learn more about the unique Fiordland environment from your Milford Sound guide on board, while enjoying the sights and sounds of waterfalls tumbling down around you.

Tonight we stay at Distinction Lakefront again*

Day 3 – Explore Arrowtown, High Country Lakes and Aoraki/ Mount Cook

After a relaxed start this morning, we'll make our way to the gorgeous mountain setting of Arrowtown. Arrowtown is a quaint gold mining town bursting with history. We'll enjoy a walk along the Arrow River Trail and have the chance to explore the Chinese Goldmining Settlement. This afternoon, we’ll journey to the heart of the Southern Alps, Aoraki/ Mount Cook National Park, an area of vast snow-covered mountains and glacier-fed lakes. This National Park is truly a jewel in New Zealand’s crown. Named in honour of our highest peak, the majestic mountains tower above bright turquoise lakes, surrounded by vast fields of golden tussock. With a settlement population of less than 100 people and building restrictions enforced, Aoraki/ Mount Cook offers not only a feast for the eyes, but rare tranquillity.

Hike the Arrow River Trail

Welcome to our backyard! Queenstown and the surrounding areas are an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. This morning, we’ll travel to historic Arrowtown, where you’ll walk the Arrow River Trail. A favourite with the locals, this trail meanders alongside the crystal-clear waters of the Arrow River and beneath a canopy of leafy green trees. While you are walking the Arrow River Trail, you'll have the opportunity to plant a native seedling and leave a small legacy of your own here in New Zealand.

Aoraki/ Mt Cook National Park

After a morning of exploring our local trails, you can rest your legs as we travel out of the Otago region and towards New Zealand’s highest peak, standing tall at 3,724m (over 12,000 feet). Along the way, we’ll travel over the Lindis Pass and down into wide open valleys before catching our first glimpse of Aoraki/ Mt Cook, ‘the cloud piercer’ as it’s known in Maori. Tonight, we’ll stay in the heart of the National Park. This area is a UNESCO International Dark Sky Reserve, which means all you need do is step outside and look up for some world-class star-gazing this evening.

Tonight we stay at Mt Cook Lodge*

Day 4 – Hiking in  Aoraki/ Mt Cook National Park

Day 5 - Explore Tekapo & Christchurch

Today’s journey takes us from mountain to ocean as we head through the fertile plains of Canterbury towards the East Coast. This morning, we'll explore the lakeside town of Tekapo. The unreal colour of Lake Tekapo contrasts brilliantly against our highest peaks in the distance, creating the perfect backdrop for photos you’ll treasure in years to come. This afternoon, we head through to Christchurch. The city of Christchurch is a lovely spot, with a mix of green parks and state-of-the-art architecture. The Avon River weaves its way through a city in the process of regeneration, with plenty to see including the colourful, Spanish Mission architecture of New Regent Street, the curious cardboard cathedral and lush botanical gardens.

Walk the Rakaia Gorge Walkway

Tucked away in the heart of Canterbury, the Rakaia Gorge Walkway is a relaxed trail that follows the mighty Rakaia River. As you walk, you’ll look out over the Rakaia River’s turquoise waters and across to the Southern Alps. The track meanders through farmland and forests leading to the remains of an old mine — a small glimpse into the area’s past. It's a great way to stretch your legs and take in some classic Canterbury scenery. Later this afternoon we'll head to Christchurch. 

Tonight we stay at Distinction Christchurch*

Day 6 - Swim with or watch dolphins in Kaikoura

Just north of Christchurch lies the small coastal town of Kaikoura. The Kaikoura Peninsula is a striking area, set on the edge of a deep continental shelf where towering cliffs meet an ocean floor that plunges even further in the other direction. The nutrient-rich water and startling topography has created a unique mecca for an abundance of marine life. Whales, dolphins, fur seals, and more are thriving in ideal conditions and are a regular sight in the waters off the mainland.

Dolphin Swimming or Watching

The dolphins we’ll meet today are totally wild, and it's their choice whether they interact with us or not, and they usually do!

These dusky dolphins are well-known for their interactive behaviour as well as their acrobatic feats and usually love to put on a show for us. The tour is an educational experience that is designed not to interfere with the natural behaviour, routines or habitat of the dolphins. There are strict regulations in place to protect and respect the dolphins and to keep you safe in the water. Our boats are well-equipped with swimming/snorkelling platforms. Whether you opt to get in the water or watch from the boat, it’s a joyful experience for all. Many of our guests have told us this is one of the highlights of their New Zealand tour.

Tonight we stay at Sudima Kaikoura*

Day 7 - Hike the Honeydew track and water taxi to Awaroa Bay

Today, we'll head to Nelson Lakes National Park where we will enjoy a tranquil walk along the shoreline of Lake Rotoiti, before heading into the native beech forest on the stunning Honeydew loop trail. Then, you’ll head to Abel Tasman National Park.

Honeydew loop trail

The Honeydew loop track is a comfortable 45 minute walk that takes us further into the Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project area. Many native birds including bellbirds, fantails and tūī are common in this area. You may also glimpse kākā or hear kākāriki chattering as they fly through the canopy.

Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand’s smallest national park and one of our most iconic. With its golden sand beaches, crystal clear water and lush native forest, it’s a hiker's paradise.

Later on day 7, you’ll head to Abel Tasman National Park where you'll board a water taxi from Kaiteriteri to an exclusive lodge, which is only accessible by boat or foot. Here you can relax on the beachfront sundeck, enjoy a lovely meal and stargaze before bed!

Tonight we stay at Awaroa Lodge in Abel Tasman National Park*

Day 8 - Hike Awaroa to Bark Bay

Today, you will embark on a truly stunning, expert guided walk from Awaroa to Bark Bay. You’ll follow the coastal track through lush native forest, before reaching more of the regions much-loved golden sand beaches. As always, today you can choose to walk as much or as little as you want to. There are several water taxi pickup locations along the trail today, so you can choose to walk anywhere between two and six hours.

After a morning of exploring Abel Tasman National Park’s coastline, we take a water taxi boat to Awaroa where you'll stay beachfront again at a beautiful lodge surrounded by pristine waterways and native forest.

Named in the top 10 best beaches in the world by Conde Nast Traveller, Awaroa Beach is affectionately known as the "People's beach" after 40,000 New Zealanders got together to collectively purchase the previously privately owned beach.

Tonight we stay at Awaroa Lodge in Abel Tasman National Park again*

Day 9 - Kayak in Abel Tasman National Park and unwind at Maruia Hot Springs

Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for its golden beaches, granite cliffs and world-famous coastal track. Today, we will explore some of the most idyllic and iconic parts of the Abel Tasman coastline by kayak.

Kayak Abel Tasman National Park

Today you'll paddle through the crystal-clear waters of Abel Tasman National Park. Kayak past golden coves and native bush, keeping an eye out for seabirds and other marine life. It’s a peaceful, unforgettable way to explore one of New Zealand's most beautiful coastal landscapes.

Maruia Hot Springs

This afternoon, we will take a water taxi to Marahau. From here, we'll begin your journey to Maruia Hot Springs where we will spend the night. Maruia Hot Springs is tucked among the snow-capped Southern Alps on the picturesque Lewis Pass national reserve. Relax and unwind in these award-winning hot springs after a day of exploring Abel Tasman National Park.

Tonight we stay at Maruia Hot Springs*

Day 10 - Explore Paparoa National Park, Lewis Pass and Pancake Rocks

This morning, you’ll wake up among the stunning Southern Alps in the picturesque Lewis Pass National Reserve before we journey west to Paparoa National Park. With its towering limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, Paparoa National Park feels like something straight out of Jurassic Park. Today, we’ll walk one of the park’s fantastic tracks and check out the blowholes and dramatic limestone formations of the Pancake Rocks.

Hike Paparoa National Park & visit the Pancake Rocks

We’ll hike the Pororari Loop Track this morning, through Paparoa National Park, a visually rich area made up of dense sub-tropical forest and limestone cliff gorges. You’ll also have the chance to check out an interesting geographical phenomenon in the town of Punakaiki – the curious looking but aptly named Pancake Rocks. The unusual limestone formations, overlaid with soft mud and clay, have been forged over millions of years by the immense pressure of the sea, wind and rain, creating the pancake effect we see today.

Tonight we stay at the Scenic Hotel Punakaiki*

Day 11 - Walk Hokitika Gorge and Point Elizabeth Walkway

Today, you’ll enjoy mountains, beaches and a tantalisingly crystal blue gorge, all in one day. We’ll kick start the day with a walk along the stunning Point Elizabeth coastal walkway. We’ll then travel to Hokitika, known as the greenstone capital of the world, where we’ll explore the magnificent Hokitika Gorge. Hokitika Gorge is one of the West Coast’s most instantly recognisable scenes.

This evening, we’ll relax in the tiny town of Franz Josef, tucked into the Southern Alps right in the heart of Glacier Country.

Point Elizabeth Walkway

We’ll take a walk along a stunning, well surfaced, coastal walkway. The Point Elizabeth Walkway is a bush track with unparalleled views of Mount Cook and the Paparoa Mountain Range. There are many birds, adding a beautiful soundtrack to our walk today. The track also follows the historic 19th century water race, built by miners to sluice their gold claims.

Hokitika Gorge Walk

This afternoon, we will walk along the glacial fed Hokitika Gorge. Ice, water, rock and age-old natural forces helped create the visual beauty of the Hokitika Gorge. A true photogenic gem, you’ll enjoy brilliant turquoise water fringed with stark white limestone cliffs and lush green rainforest. These glacial waters carry precious pounamu (New Zealand jade/greenstone) from the mountains down to the sea.

Tonight we stay at Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier*

Day 12 - Explore the Lake Matheson Track and Monro Beach

Keep your camera handy today to capture the picture-perfect views of Lake Matheson and Franz Josef Glacier’s terminal face, as we continue our journey along the West Coast. We’ll spend a relaxed evening in the tiny town of Franz Josef, tucked into the Southern Alps right in the heart of Glacier Country.

Lake Matheson Track

Today, we'll walk on the Lake Matheson Track where you'll enjoy stunning views of Aoraki/ Mt Cook and our towering Southern Alps. Renowned for its glassy still waters, you'll enjoy spectacular mirror-like reflections across Lake Matheson as we make our way through native forest and learn about the fascinating glacial history of the area.

Monro Beach

This track passes through luxuriant coastal forest to the remote Monro Beach. Monro Beach is home to an abundance of native flora and fauna, including tūī, bellbird, kereru, and the rarest species of penguin in the world – the tawaki/ Fiordland crested penguin.

Tonight we stay at Wānaka Homestead*

Day 13 - Exclusive High Country Station Experience - Helicopter, Hike, Boat

Today, we are heading out on an adventure you will remember forever. We'll begin the day by boarding a Squirrel Helicopter before we take flight through the heart of the 355,000ha Mount Aspiring National Park. You'll look out across winding rivers, virgin beech forest, glaciated valleys, alpine lakes, glaciers and the towering Southern Alps, before emerging over Lake Wānaka and landing on a private high country sheep station not accessible to the public. This is a very special area that is only accessed by boat or helicopter!

We’ll then walk along an old mustering trail beneath the slopes of Mount Burke, through native bush and along the glacier-carved edge of Lake Wānaka. You'll be treated to sweeping alpine views across the lake and find a sense of isolation that’s getting hard to find these days! You'll then be met by a boat on the shore of Lake Wanaka where you'll be whisked back to Wanaka township for a delicious meal.  

This is a quintessential New Zealand experience that is not offered by any other tour company nor is the track open to the general public, and we are delighted that our local connections have allowed us to put this incredible day together for you.

Tonight we stay at Wanaka Homestead again*

Day 14 – Explore Wānaka and a wine tasting in Central Otago

Wake up in Wānaka, one of the South Island’s most beloved lakeside towns. Nestled beneath the Southern Alps and hugged by the glacial waters of Lake Wānaka, this place has a laid-back charm that’s hard to beat. With crisp mountain air, stunning alpine views, and a peaceful vibe, it’s the perfect spot to ease into your final day.

Enjoy a relaxed morning perhaps with a coffee by the lake or a wander through the town’s boutique shops, galleries, and cafés. If you’re keen to stretch your legs one last time, join your guides for a lakeside walk, with the mountains rising high above and the lake sparkling at your side.

This afternoon, we’ll make our way to Queenstown to celebrate in style. There’s a long lunch and wine tasting waiting for us at one of Central Otago’s finest wineries - a fitting finale to your time on the trails. Then it’s time to say goodbye to your guides, travel companions, and new-found friends as we drop you at the airport or one of our joining hotels. If you’re joining us to explore the North Island, we’ll ensure a smooth transition for you. If not, we hope to see you again soon in the Land of the Long White Cloud.