4 Jan: CHRISTCHURCH

Arrive in Christchurch, New Zealand. I can provide recommendations on getting there from wherever you need. Also, feel free to arrive earlier to explore the city and area. Stroll along the Avon River at Oxford Terrace and a look at the Cardboard Cathedral, take a short hike along the Godley Head Walkway, visit the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, take the gondola for impressive views over the city, or take a swim at the He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools. This afternoon we’ll check into our lodging and meet for a special welcome dinner!

Lodging is the Carnmore Hotel. Check-in time is from 2:00 pm, but you should be able to drop off your luggage sooner if arriving earlier. Please be sure I know your expected arrival time. The hotel is located centrally in Christchurch and walkable to much in the area. We have two rooms and each room has two twin beds.

Our welcome dinner is at the hotel restaurant, Hoi Palloi, at 7:00 pm.

5 Jan: ARTHUR’S PASS

Drive Time: 2 hours | Drive Distance: 149km

Check-out time is by 10:00 am

Breakfast will be on your own (or we can eat together) and is available from 7:00 am at the hotel restaurant or other places nearby. The hotel offers a la carte breakfast items or breakfast buffet for $32 NZD (about $18 USD).

After breakfast and around 9:00 am (we may adjust the departure time based on our desired hiking plan), we’ll head to the highest and most spectacular pass across the Southern Alps. Along the way, we’ll stop for provisions in Darfield (consider buying something for lunch, dinner, breakfast, possibly lunch the next day, beverages, and snacks) and then at Castle Hill to stretch our legs with a short 30 minute walk (the Kura Tawhiti Loop Track) with amazing valley views, impressive boulders, and limestone formations.

From here we will head to our stop for the night, Arthur’s Pass Village. Depending on we arrive and weather, we can possibly take our next hike of the trip. We’ll stop at the visitor’s center to find out current conditions and make a final decision. We have options such as the short and moderate (1.2 mile, 347 feet elevation gain, 45 min) Devils Punchbowl Walking Track, the more challenging (3.9 - 4.8 miles, 3476 feet elevation gain, 4-6 hours) Avalanche Peak Track (there are several ways to do this track depending on conditions), the moderate (7.5 miles, 2100 feet elevation, 4-5 hour) Bealey Spur Track, or one of the other tracks for incredible views.

We can get something ready made in Darfield for lunch or try one of the few local options in the village depending on when we arrive and what our hiking plans are.

Lodging in Arthur’s Pass Village is Arthur’s Pass Motel and Lodge. Check-in time is from 2:00 - 5:00 pm. We have two rooms, each with two single beds. There is also a communal full kitchen available at the lodge for preparing your own meal.

After checking into our lodging, we may have some time for an additional hike and/or can relax and enjoy dinner before turning in for the night.

Dinner options are limited. There is a local cafe open until 7:00 pm and another restaurant about 10 minutes away open until 7:30 pm. You may wish to prepare something in the communical kitchen.

Sunset is around 9:15 pm

6 Jan: HOKITIKA GORGE and FRANZ JOSEF/FOX GLACIERS

Drive Time: 1 hr 45 mins + 2 hours | Drive Distance: 132 + 161 km

Check-out time is by 10:00 am

For breakfast, Arthur’s Pass Cafe and Store (right next door) opens at 8:00 am or feel free to prepare your own breakfast at the communal kitchen at the lodge.

After breakfast and around 8:30 am, we will head to Hokitika Gorge, a photogenic gem of turquoise waters, white granite cliffs, and lush green forest. We’ll spend about an hour here before we hit the road again and drive for another 2 hours to Franz Josef for our next overnight stop. We can stop in the town of Hokitika on the way for a quick lunch (there is a well-reviewed sandwich shop there) or feel free to bring something you’ve already bought/prepared.

In Franz Josef, we have options to go to the Fox Glacier Viewpoint, walk Lake Matheson, visit Lake Mapourika (30 min walk or short drive from our lodging), complete the short Franz Josef Glacier Walk and/or take one of the other local walks or enjoy the Waiho Hot Tubs or West Coast Wildlife Centre (for kiwi bird viewing, open until 7pm).

At some point (probably after check in) we will stop for any provisions at the local grocery store in Franz Josef. You may want to consider buying something for dinner, breakfast, and lunch the next day.

Lodging in Franz Josef is at the Kahere Retreat. Check-in time is at 3:00 pm. We have a two-bedroom chalet. One of the bedrooms has two twin beds for David and Nick. There is a stovetop, small fridge, and oven in the well-equipped kitchen. The chalet also has a communal hot tub and sauna.

After check in, we should have time for another walk or one of the other available activities before dinner.

Around 5:45 pm, we will head to the Waiho Hot Tubs for our own private tub (booked for 6:00 pm), surrounded by lush rainforest. Towels and water are provided. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase, or we’re welcome to bring our own. We need to arrive 5 minutes before our session start time (it’s about a 7-minute drive from our cabin).

For dinner, the retreat owners recommend SnakeBite Brewery in town (short drive, not walkable), but there are several restaurants there, and you can of course make dinner at our chalet.

Sunset is around 9:22 pm

7-8 Jan: WANAKA

Drive Time: 4 hours | Drive Distance: 284km

Check-out time is by 10:00 am

Breakfast is on your own at the chalet.

Around 8:00 am, we will depart for our next stop, Wanaka. I recommend you wear your swimsuit or at least have it and a towel readily available in case you want to get wet at some of the stops along the way. This could also be a good time to wear or bring sandals / water shoes if you brought them.

Along the way to Wanaka, we can stop at some scenic spots like Ship Creek, Roaring Billy Falls, Thunder Creek Falls, Wilson Creek Canyon, and the Blue Pools.

There are some limited options to stop for lunch along the way that we can plan based on our departure time. You can also bring something you previously made for lunch as well.

Once we arrive in the incredibly scenic Wanaka, we can see the famous Wanaka Tree, explore some of scenic local beaches (lake), and/or take a short hike or two (there are lots of options!).

Lodging in Wanaka is at the Log House. Check-in time is 3:00 pm. The home features three bedrooms, one with two singles, one with a king, and one with a queen. We’ll sort out who gets what room later. There is a well equipped kitchen and laundry as well as a bbq grill. The main area of the town (including the grocery store) is about a 15-20 min walk from the house.

After check-in and before dinner, there is time to explore and/or maybe take another short hike. We can decide based on how everyone is feeling and the current weather. Of course you are welcome to do your own thing as well.

We’ll also make a grocery store run for provisions. You may want to consider buying something for dinner(s), breakfast, and lunch and/or snacks for the hike the next day. The grocery store is also walkable from the house if you need something else later (open 7:00 am - 10:00 pm).

Wanaka has many restaurants to choose for dinner, or you are welcome to prepare something at the house.

On 8 Jan, for anyone that wants to, and weather supporting, we can head back to the Wanaka tree for what could be a very scenic sunrise. Civil twilight begins at 5:32 am and sunrise is at 6:08 am.

Next, we will start early (around 7:00 am) to take the challenging (10 miles, 4200 feet elevation gain, 4 - 5 hours) but incredibly rewarding Roys Peak Track for breathtaking views over Lake Wanaka, Mount Aspiring, and surrounding mountains. Although this is a challenging hike, it’s considered one of the most spectactular hikes in New Zealand!

You can take something for lunch along the way or plan to eat when we return (I recommend bringing at least some snacks).

If anyone decides to skip this hike, there are several walks/hikes within walking distance of the house where we are staying or you’re welcome to simply chill and enjoy the environs in your own way.

Afterwards, you have free time on your own if you wish to chill or explore more of Wanaka and maybe experience some local wine tasting.

Dinner options are the same as the previous night.

Sunset will be around 9:31 pm

9 Jan: ARROWTOWN and QUEENSTOWNE

Drive Time: 1 hour 10 min | Drive Distance: 75km

Check-out time is by 10:00 am

After a leisurely breakfast and around check-out time, we’ll take the 50 min drive to Arrowtown, a historic gold mining town on the banks of the Arrow River. From here, we’ll head to the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown (about 20 minutes away). Depending on timing, we can take lunch in Arrowtown, Queenstown, or feel free to bring your own.

Since our lodging check-in time isn’t until later, I recommend we take one of the local shorter hikes (weather permitting), most likely the Queenstown Hill Walkway Track (hard, 3 miles, 1300 feet elevation gain, 2-2.5 hours) or the Moke Lake Loop Track (easy, 4.3 miles, 567 feet elevation gain, 1.5-2 hours).

Lodging in Queenstown is the Terrace. Check-in time is 3:00 pm. The home has two bedrooms with queen beds in each one and an additional bedroom with two twins. We’ll sort out who gets what room later. It has a fully equipped kitchen and is about a 10-15 min walk from the downtown area.

After checking in, you’ll have free time the rest of the day. There are plenty of things to do, and we will be a short walk from the center of the town. If we haven’t already visited a grocery store, we will do that as well. You can take jet boat ride, do an innovative wine tasting, or perhaps take another afternoon hike.

Queenstown has many restaurants to choose for dinner, or you are welcome to prepare something at the house. The main area of the town (including the grocery store) is about a 10-15 min walk from the house. Since it will be peak season there, it’s recommended to make reservations for dinner in advance if that is your preference. There’s a very well reviewed Nepali dumpling and noodles food truck called Himalaya: that might be worth checking out!

Sunset is around 9:34 pm.

10 Jan: SCENIC HIKE and SIDETRIP TO GLENORCHY

Drive Time: 1.5 hours roundtrip (plus stops) | Drive Distance: 90 km

After an early breakfast and around 7:30-8:00 am, we will head to our next hike, the spectacular Mount Crichton Loop Track. This moderate loop trek provides a tremendous view of the lakes, spectacular scenery on the way up, and a good amount of shade. It’s 4.8 miles, just over 1000 feet of elevation gain, and should take around 2.5-3 hours to complete.

Next we’ll head to Glenorchy, a small settlement on the northern end of Lake Wakatipu. Along the way, we’ll have the opportunity to stop at a Lord of the Rings filming location (Ithilien Lookout), Bob’s Cove (maybe with a refreshing dip in the lake?!?), Bennett’s Bluff Lookout, and Glenorchy Wharf. There are several places there to take lunch, or you’re welcome to bring your own.

After lunch, we’ll return to Queenstown where you’ll have more free time to explore the city.

If you’d like to skip this sidetrip to plan your own activites this day, there’s plenty to do in Queenstown from bungy jumping, 4WD off road adventures, whitewater rafting, scenic walks, and more! Our lodging is walking distance to the center of town. Another option for the day is to take the challenging but spectacular Ben Lomond Track (can also be shortened with a gondola ride for part of the distance). If you’re interested in this, let’s discuss!

At 4:00 pm, we’ll check in at Onsen for our one hour, private cedar hot tub session overlooking the Shotover River. Each exclusive-use pool is filled with pure mountain water and gently heated. Towels and drinking water are provided, and swimsuits are required. We are not allowed to bring our own food and drink, but some items may be available for purchase. Onsen is about a 15-minute drive from where we are staying. Recommend bringing a bag for wet clothing (there are changing rooms and showers for after).

For dinner, I’ve made reservations for the group at Yonder (walking distance from the house) at 7:00 pm. You’re welcome to join, but of course you’re welcome to do your own thing as well!

Sunset is around 9:34 pm.

11-13 Jan: TE ANAU, MILFORD SOUND, DOUBTFUL SOUND

Drive Time: 2 hours | Drive Distance: 171km

Check-out time is by 10:00 am

After breakfast and around check-out time, we’ll make the drive to Te Anau, our next overnight stop. Along the way we’ll stop at the Devil’s Staircase Lookout Point for a scenic photo op and maybe the Garston Hunny Shop for a peek at their local products.

Well continue on to Te Anau, a scenic lakeside village and the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Here we can stop by the Fjordland National Park Visitor Center, take a short stroll along Rainbow Reach, and have lunch either at a local cafe or with something we’ve brought/prepared.

Next we will explore the renowned glowworm caves before checking into our lodging. Check-in for our glowworm cave experience is at 1:30 pm and we should finish around 4:15 pm.

The adventure begins with a scenic cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Te Anau aboard a catamaran, taking us to the remote western shores.

There we’ll explore fascinating displays that uncover the caves’ geology and history before our guide leads us into the underground labyrinth. Along the way, the guides will highlight the caves’ unique features and share captivating stories about their formation and discovery. We’ll marvel at twisting limestone passages, sculpted rock formations, swirling whirlpools, and a thundering underground waterfall.

The journey culminates in a hidden grotto, where we’ll drift silently by boat beneath a sparkling canopy of glowworms unique to New Zealand. In the stillness and darkness of this subterranean realm, their bioluminescent display is nothing short of extraordinary.

What to bring: non-slip shoes/boots, waterproof jacket, warm sweater/fleece jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, snacks (optional). Please note that photography is not allowed inside the caves.

After this experience, we’ll check into our lodging, Kazza’s Barn. Check-in time is from 3:00 pm. This home has two bedrooms with one queen each and another with two single beds. We’ll sort out who gets what bedroom later. The home also has a fully equipped kitchen.

From here we will have some time to get provisions, chill, and walk the shore before dinner.

For dinner, I’ve made reservations for the group at the Fat Duck (walking distance from the house) at 6:45 pm. It’s Chris’s birthday dinner and you’re wlecome to join, but of course you’re welcome to do your own thing! There are other restaurants in town, and you can also prepare something in the kitchen.

We should plan to sleep early as the next day has a very early start!

Sunset is at 9:37 pm

On 12 Jan, we’ll get up very early and leave around 5:00 am for the 1.75 hour drive to Milford Sound, a small outpost deep within the Fiordland National Park. New Zealanders refer to Milford Sound as the 8th Wonder of the World. Here we will have some of the most scenic kayaking you’ll likely ever experience! This trip will take us on a big loop of Milford Sound with opportunities to spot wildlife and photograph waterfalls. This experience is rated as moderate and includes 3.5 hours of paddling.

Check-in time for kayaking is 7:00 am.

What to bring: water bottle, food/high-energy snacks, personal medication, soft shoes or sandals, swimsuit/underwear, rain jacket/shorts, change of clothes, towel, insect repellent, sunscreen, hat & sunglasses. If you plan to hike afterwards, please remember to bring your hiking clothes and gear.

They will provide: life jacket, thermals, dry bag for what you plan to bring in to kayak, spray skirt, fleece, paddle jacket, neoprene gloves.

Once we’ve finished the kayaking experience (around 12:15 pm), we’ll have lunch in the village or feel free to bring something you’ve purchased/made.

After lunch, we’ll have the option of taking one of two beautiful hikes in the area: either the Routeban Track (moderate, 5 miles, 1381 ft elevation gain, 2-2.5 hours) or the more challenging but highly recommended Lake Marian Track (hard, 3.8 miles, 1312 elevation gain, 2.5-3.5 hours).

**If you prefer to take a scenic boat ride through the sound, we can likely accomodate this. Let’s discuss!

Afterwards, we will head back to our lodging in Te Anau for dinner and chill.

For dinner, there are several good restaurants in the village or feel free to make something at home to bring.

*Please note that January is the wettest month of the year in this area, and there is a possibility we will get rain on this day. The kayaking experience is likely to continue though, and we can certainly take some shorter walks in the area despite the rain.

Sunset is at 9:37 pm

13 Jan: DOUBTFUL SOUND OVERNIGHT CRUISE

Check-out time is 10:00 am

After a leisurely breakfast and around check-out time, we’ll leave for Manapouri (about 20 mins away) where we will give in to the wilderness and escape to the secluded Pātea Doubtful Sound, located in the depths of the Fiordland National Park! Unlike a day cruise, this unique overnight experience completely immerses us in nature. We will wake up feeling connected, in harmony, and full of wonder for Aotearoa’s native flora and fauna. The experience includes dinner, breakfast, weather-dependent excursion (kayak or tender craft), and onboard nature specialist. Check-in time for the boat is 11:45 am, so we will have some time to stop for lunch and snacks to take with onboard with us (lunch is not provided). We can get some things from the local grocery store, and there is also a cafe in Manapouri. If we have a lot of extra time before we check in, we can walk along Frasers Beach in Manapouri.

Essential items to bring for the overnight boat trip (should bring an overnight bag, not your entire luggage which will stay in our vehicle): non-slip shoes/boots for boat, waterproof jacket, warm sweater / fleece, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellant, swimwear (optional), lunch and snacks (drinks and snacks available for purchase with card on the boat as well), personal medications, chargers/adaptors, headphones, book.

We have two twin rooms onboard. Bedding and towels are included. There are also shared bathrooms with hot showers. There are outlets for charging in the cabins. Complimentary tea and coffee are available throughout the experience.

Our itinerary starts with a 45min-1hr cruise across Lake Manapouri, where we’ll hop off at the west arm. A coach then takes us across the Wilmot Pass, where we’ll travel on a sub-alpine road through dense rainforest. Arriving at Deep Cove, we’ll be met by our crew and boat.

As we cruise through some of New Zealand’s most stunning scenery, our knowledgeable nature guides will provide commentary as we possibly encounter a pod of resident dolphins, fur seals or rare penguins.

After dropping anchor in a sheltered cove, we can choose to explore the shoreline by kayak or tender boat, or simply relax onboard. For those looking to refresh, there’s even a chance to go swimming. All activities are weather-dependent.

In the evening, we’ll enjoy a delicious three-course dinner prepared by our onboard chef, served in the dining saloon. We then can mingle with fellow travellers, try some local wines from our bar, and if the skies are clear, spend some time on the upper deck gazing at the stars.

Sunset is at 9:36 pm

14 Jan: DUNEDIN

Drive Time: 3 hours 30 mins (plus optional stops) | Drive Distance: 288km

We'll kick off the next day with a hearty cooked breakfast or a nourishing continental selection and get ready to explore the other arms of the fiord. Before long, we’ll return to Deep Cove, and take the trip back to Manapouri.

After we disembark from our cruise around 12:15 pm, we’ll have lunch in Manapouri before heading to our next destination, Dunedin.

Depending on group interest, we’ll have the option to make some detours along the way to see spots like the Cathedral Caves (low tide only, $10 pp), Waipati Beach, McLean Falls, Purakaunui Falls (these add one hour and half drive time), and/or Nugget Point (adds one hour drive time).

Lodging in Dunedin is the Amross Motel. Check-in time is 3:00 pm. We will have a one-bedroom unit for Chris and Charles and a two-bedroom (one with queen and one with two singles) for David and Nick. The motel is in the center of the town and walkable to grocery and dining options.

In Dunedin, a city known for its Scottish and Maori heritage, we will have the opportunity to walk around and view its unique Victorian architecture, visit Larnach Castle, and/or take a short drive out to the scenic Tunnel Beach.

Dinner can be in the city with plenty of options within walking distance of hotel; however there is a simple kitchen (microwave and fridge) avaialble in case you wish to prepare something light/easy instead.

15-16 Jan: LAKE PUKAKI and MOUNT COOK (NZ’s TALLEST PEAK)

Drive Time: 3.75 hours (plus stops) | Drive Distance: 314km

Check-out time is 10:00 am

For breakfast, there are several places nearby that open early, or you’re welcome to have something in your room or along the way.

After breakfast and around 8:00 am we’ll depart. We’ll pass through and briefly stop at Moeraki Boulders Beach (with its unique rock formations) as we make our way to Lake Pukaki, with its stunning blue alpine waters. This is said to be one of the most scenic drives in New Zealand. At Lake Pukaki, we’ll stop for Peter's Lookout and have the opportunity to view the incredible lake from different perspectives.

We’ll stop for provisions along the way at the closest proper grocery store in Twizel. We should get enough items to last for our two night’s stay in Mount Cook since there are limited options in the remote mountain village.

From there we’ll continue on to Mount Cook Village. We may be able to get in a short hike before and/or after we check into our lodging.

Kea Point Track (easy, 1.8 miles, 288 feet elevation gain, 30 mins to 1 hour) and Tasman Lake and River Walk (easy, 1.7 miles, 1-1.5 hours) are nice shorter hikes to do and offer excellent views of the area around Mount Cook (New Zealand’s tallest peak! 12,218 ft).

Lodging in Mount Cook Village is at the Aoraki Court Motel. Check-in time is 2:00 pm. We have two studios, one of them is with both a king bed and a single bed for David and Nick.

After checking in, there should be time for an additional shorter hike or feel free to check out the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Center, the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre, or simply walk around soaking in the scenery and/or chill.

For dinner, there limited options in Mount Cook Village, and they can be pricey due to the remote nature. If wanting to dine in the village, reservagtions are HIGHLY recommended. There are small kitchens in our rooms that include hob, microwave, toaster, fridge, and kettle. The closest sizeable town with more options is 48 mins away by car.

On 16 Jan, if you’re feeling motivated and the weather supports it, you’re welcome to go on a short sunrise walk (30 mins roundtrip) to see the sunrise over Tasman Glacier, the lake, and surrounding mountains. Civil twilight is at 5:47 and sunrise is at 6:19 am.

Next, we’ll get an early start (~8:00 am) for hiking the incredible Hooker Valley Track (moderate, 6.7 miles, 702 feet elevation gain and 2.5 to 3 hours).

Afterwards, you’ll have time for lunch, to relax, and reflect on the morning’s adventures or even take another spectacular hike.

At 3:30 pm, Charles and Chris will drive to the airport fo their scenic helicoptor or airplane flight over Mount Cook. They should return to the lodging around 5:30 pm.

Dinner options are the same as previous day.

17 Jan: LAKE TEKAPO and CHRISTCHURCH

Drive Time: 1 hour 15minutes + 3 hours | Drive Distance: 104km + 226km

Check-out time is by 10:00 am

Before leaving, there is another opportunity for a sunrise walk and views if you didn’t do it the day before.

After an earlier breakfast, and around 7:00 am, we’ll drive just over one hour to Lake Tekapo. There we will have our last hike of the trip, the stunning Mount John Summit Circuit (moderate, 5.1 miles, 1300 feet elevation gain, and 2.5-3.5 hours).

After the hike, we’ll have an opportunity to cool off with a cold swim in the lake and then warm back up gain with a hot swim at Tekapo Springs. Sauna, steam room, and secure lockers are available for additional charge on site. Open storage lockers are free.

We can bring or pick something up for lunch from a local restaurant or grocery store (ordering at Tekapo Springs is not recommended).

Once we’ve finished at the springs, we’ll make a stop at the Church of the Good Shepherd.

From here, we’ll make the approximately 3 hour drive back to our starting point in Christchurch. We’ll likely arrive sometime between 3:00 - 6:00 pm. This evening we will have a farewell dinner and celebrate our shared adventures!

Lodging is at the Commodore Airport Hotel. Check-in time is 2:00 pm. We have two rooms, and each room has two queen beds.

Farewell dinner will be at the hotel restaurant at 7:00 pm.

18 Jan: CHRISTCHURCH and TRIP END

Check-out time is by 11:00 am

Breakfast is available at the hotel restaurant or other places nearby. The hotel offers a la carte breakfast items or breakfast buffet (continental or hot available).

Today our trip ends. We’ll say our goodbyes as everyone departs for home or their next destination.

*We may make slight modifications to the itinerary due to weather or other factors or to enhance the experience when possible