Group Size: 14 - 32 guests
Price: $10,990 per person double occupancy / $3,025 single supplement
Co-sponsored with: Harvard Exclusive
Trip Overview
Isolated from other land masses by the swells of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean, New Zealand is a world unto itself. Exploring on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to experience its breathtaking landscapes and untamed wilderness. In this custom-designed program, you'll immerse yourself in the country’s remarkable beauty and vibrant culture while hiking along its finest trails, including three of New Zealand’s most celebrated tracks: the Milford, Routeburn, and Hooker Valley. Encounter dramatic glacial fjords, soaring mountain peaks, geothermal wonders, unique wildlife, unspoiled beaches, and ancient forests along the way.
Begin in Auckland, the “City of Sails,” before heading to Rotorua, the heartland of Maori culture, and a geothermal wonderland. Fly to Christchurch on the South Island for one night and travel through the stunning Canterbury Plains for the turquoise waters and starry skies of Lake Tekapo. Venture into Mount Cook National Park home to the highest mountains and longest glaciers in New Zealand and a playground for such names as Sir Edmund Hillary. Following a high country walk using 4WD vehicles Lake Wanaka Queenstown for two days in the adventure capital of New Zealand. This program culminates with 3 days exploring the very best of Fiordland National Park’s beauty, including the Routeburn Track’s alpine splendor and a hike and cruise in the famed Milford Sound.
Schedule by Day
Pricing
- $10,990 per person double occupancy
- $3,025 single supplement
Accommodations
- JW Marriott Auckland (2 nights)
- Pullman Rotorua (2 nights)
- Sudima Hotel Christchurch (1 night)
- Peppers Bluewater Resort Tekapo (2 nights)
- Novotel Queenstown (1 night)
- Distinction Hotel & Villas (2 nights)
- St. Moritz Queenstown (2 nights)
Extensions
None offered
What to Expect
This is a moderately strenuous program that is at times both physically demanding and busy and requires participants to be in good health and able to keep up with the group without assistance from tour staff. Participants must be physically fit, active and in good health and must be able to navigate walking routes that are often rugged and uneven and without assistance. Sturdy, well-fitting, waterproof, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support are essential Travel on land will be by modern, air-conditioned motorcoach on roads ranging from modern highways to winding mountainous roads in remote locations. Long drives will be broken up with rest stops and site visits. In addition, there will be an on-tour flight from Rotorua to Christchurch on October 31st, enabling us to travel quickly and comfortably from the North Island to the South Island. Busy days will be offset with opportunities to explore independently and relax at the hotels.
Daily excursions involve up to three miles of walking, often in the full sun, and walking tours can last as long as three hours, including periodic stops. Much of the walking will take place over uneven and unpaved terrain, on muddy or sandy trails, and on moderate inclines / declines. Some historic buildings do not have elevators, and you’ll sometimes encounter steps without handrails.In addition to the excursions, this program includes several hikes on New Zealand’s Great Tracks ranging from about four to six miles. As a general guide we recommend you are capable of walking for 3-4 hours to enjoy the guided hikes. Although the tracks are well-formed, they can be rough and rocky underfoot in some places, and the weather can make the hike more challenging on some days.
Note: This tour is not recommended for guests with neurological conditions that affect stability, mobility, and decision making. It is also not suitable for those with recent knee injuries, recent surgery, moderate to severe joint issues and moderate to severe heart conditions. Finally, this tour is not suitable for those who may wish to physically extend themselves by going further or faster than the average person, or for those who are not interested in participating in a group activity.
