Top South Island Hiking Tours - page 2

Cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a vintage steamship (or a replacement vessel when the steamship is undergoing maintenance). Stroll the lakeside gardens, watch a farm show, and see sheepdogs in action. Take a guided tour and enjoy free time to stroll. Savor a delicious afternoon tea with scones before heading back to Queenstown the same way you came.

An amazing high-country hiking experience for guests who would like the opportunity to explore the wild high-country landscape. Hike off the beaten path with stunning views over Marlborough.   Our guides are a wealth of knowledge about high-country farming, animals and nature, they are able to tailor the hike to suit your individual or group. The day is beautifully catered, and we can cater for any dietary requirements.

This once in a lifetime hike takes visitors into the dramatic mountain range through the high road, allowing them spectacular views of the surrounding vistas and of Lake Wanaka. Succumb to the comforts of the four-wheel drive and learn expert knowledge of the local flora and fauna from a professional guide.

Visit "The Lord of the Rings" filming locations in and around Glenorchy, traveling by 4WD from Queenstown with a guide. This half-day tour includes stunning landscapes chosen by director Peter Jackson. See where famous scenes were filmed, the landscapes representing the Fortress of Isengard, Lothlórien, Ithilien Camp, and Forest of Amon Hen.

Sample Central Otago wines without the stress of choosing a sober driver. Enjoy included hotel pickup from Queenstown on a leisurely drive around celebrated wineries in the Gibbston Valley. Have lunch at a winery restaurant (own cost). Go behind the scenes at the country’s oldest wine cave and sample a range of varietals, from pinot noirs to various whites. Canine lovers will also enjoy being accompanied by Bella the dog.

Perfect for photography lovers, enjoy a full-day private photography tour in Queenstown and the surrounding area. Start your day in charming Queenstown and then head further afield. The exact itinerary is up to you, but possible destinations include Arrowtown, Glenorchy, Wanaka, Skippers Canyon and more. Your guide is a local photographer, so will be able to give you lots of advice on how to get the best shots.

This small group Franz Josef Heli Hike Adventure offers a unique glacier experience, including a scenic helicopter flight, lunch, and drinks. You'll fly from Franz Josef over lush rainforest, landing at 1200m on the glacier. You'll explore the glacier for up to 6 hours with a guide. With a small group size of 1 guide to 4 guests, the adventure can be customized to your preferred level of difficulty.

Embark on a scenic journey from Christchurch to Hanmer Springs, renowned for its therapeutic thermal pools nestled amidst picturesque alpine landscapes. This tour uniquely combines relaxation and adventure, offering activities such as jet boating, hiking, and mountain biking on world-class trails. En route, indulge in local cuisine at charming cafés and opt for a wine tasting at Waipara's esteemed wineries, ensuring a memorable experience that caters to diverse interests

Whether you just have a couple of hours to spare or want to spend the whole day kayaking, this rental service is ideal. Pick up your double kayak in Marahau, at the entrance to the Abel Tasman National Park. Explore the coastline at your own pace, without a guide telling you want to do or a group to keep up with.

Go on one of New Zealand's "Great Walks," the Routeburn Track from Te Anau to Key Summit, during this full-day guided walking tour. Get views of alpine herb fields, snowy peaks, and lush forests across the South Island’s Fiordland National Park. Travel with a small group of 12 hikers or fewer, ensuring personalized attention from your guide. Be prepared for a moderate hike with some uphill sections.

A self-drive adventure awaits in Queenstown, where culinary exploration meets playful riddle-solving. Spend 4-5 hours discovering local flavors while gathering picnic delights from artisanal spots. Kick off your journey with a warm beverage and a gourmet picnic basket, then embark on a scavenger hunt through scenic lakeside views and charming boutiques. Conclude your day at a picturesque picnic spot, where surprise activities and tastings await, making this experience perfect for couples, friends, or families looking to savor the region’s hidden gems.

Walk, cruise and relax on this 3 Day/2 Night journey into Abel Tasman National Park. No need to give up modern comforts. Stay at our Beachfront Eco-Lodges, Torrent Bay Lodge and Meadowbank Homestead at Awaroa, with ensuite rooms, hot showers and delicious meals cooked for you. Lodge bag transferred by boat, you just walk with a day pack. And boat back up means walking can be shorted any day in needed or simply cruise between our beachfront lodges. We take care of the details, so you get to escape from stress, revive your senses and reconnect with what’s important to you. Discover how life just seems better here.

Totally Personalized Private Experience! A day trip to Arthur's National Park offers a variety of green fields to rugged mountain ranges, lush forest, and ice-fed lakes and rivers and an optional guided walk with your guide to explore, biggest waterfall. Travel along the Great Alpine Highway through the ever-changing landscapes. Explore Lake Lyndon, castle Hill (famous for massive limestone boulders and rocks), Otira Viaduct Lookout (famous piece of infrastructure for scenic view), Arthur’s Pass National Park, Powerfull Devils Punchbowl Waterfall and Cave Stream Scenic Reserve.

Embark on a self-guided hike along the Queen Charlotte Track, starting with a scenic Cougar Line trip to Punga Cove. The 11km return trail leads through lush native bush and offers breathtaking views of the Kenepuru and Queen Charlotte Sounds. The final ascent to Eatwells Lookout presents a moderately challenging climb, culminating in 360-degree panoramic vistas. This adventure is perfect for those with a good fitness level, making it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a rewarding experience in New Zealand's stunning landscapes. - 11 km return hike featuring lush bush and stunning coastal views - Approximately 4-5 hours of walking, plus 1.5 hours by water taxi each way - Moderate to challenging trail suitable for fit hikers - Track Pass required for access, available for purchase at reception

Discover the remarkable Kepler Track on this full day tour, including helicopter and water taxi. Reach the Luxmore Hut by helicopter, taking in panoramic mountain views at this iconic hiking location. Venture on an alpine hike before descending through native beech forest to the sandy lake shore, where you’ll catch a water taxi back to Te Anau.

Embark on an unforgettable overnight journey from Christchurch to the serenity of Hurunui Hut along the Harpers Pass Track. This exclusive expedition promises a perfect fusion of adventure, relaxation, and immersion in the untamed wilderness. Depart from Christchurch and embark on a picturesque drive to the start point of Harpers Pass Track. Along the way, soak in the breathtaking vistas that set the stage for the adventure ahead. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes with a trek through the wilderness, or embrace the thrill of an exhilarating fat biking experience. Spend the night at the welcoming embrace of Hurunui Hut, nestled amidst the rugged beauty of the wilderness. After settling into the cozy hut, indulge in a rejuvenating escape to nearby natural hot springs. Let their therapeutic waters melt away the stresses of everyday life. As night falls, bask in the peaceful ambiance of Hurunui Hut, sharing stories and laughter with fellow adventurers under the stars.

Soar over Lake Te Anau via helicopter. Soak up views of the Hidden Lakes, the Main Divide and the remote Kepler Mountains before getting dropped off at the Luxmore Hut for your hike. Soak up the amazing views from Luxmore Summit, before descending by foot onto the shores of Lake Te Anau.

DETAILS : Return flights from Nelson Airport Return road transfers from accommodation Two-way communication with pilot 1x landing Guided hiking tour of the Abel Tasman Lunch, refreshments, and beverages

The most scenic jet boat ride ever: see actual “Lord of the Rings” film locations on the way down to the beautiful Lake Manapouri. On the way down the river you will get the chance to spot rainbow and brown trout. There is an amazing view around every river bend. The ride has a pinch of adrenalin and heaps of natural beauty. Lake Manapouri is amazing and you may not see another boat in sight. Your start of part of the Kepler Track begins on disembarking from the boat at approximately 12:00 pm. A leisurely guided walk begins through towering Beech trees and even taller Rimu trees. Our guide will share his/her knowledge with you; Native trees, ferns and the occasional Bellbirds, Tuis, friendly Fantails, Tomtits, Finches and Robins will keep your camera clicking. The hike concludes at the large suspension bridge at Rainbow Reach where your transport awaits to take you back to Te Anau

Take a water taxi from Picton to Kaipupu Sanctuary, a peaceful predator-free island. Enjoy a 2.8km loop track through native bush, perfect for a leisurely walk and spotting native birds in their natural habitat.

Experience the mahi on a one hour guided tour and learn about efforts to restore the land to its pre-European tunga (situation). Experience a one-hour interactive guided tour of the of the property from April to November. Your experienced guide has been sharing the stories of Aotearoa with people from around the globe for many years. At the end of the tour you are welcome to stay on and soak in the sounds, silence and sensations of our place. The opportunity to purchase our lavender products is available, as is the chance to enjoy our famous bush coffee/tea and a "kiwi as" snack. Facilities include an outdoor composting toilet. The income from our farm tours goes directly back into our conservation and regeneration programme. Booking is essential, no walk-ins. Contact us for a group tour bookings or for tours outside advertised hours. The road is not suitable for camper-vans, please phone us to discuss alternative arrangements.