Scenic South Hike and Bike - Hiking New Zealand - 8 days

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Christchurch - Aoraki Mt Cook National Park
1 stop
1
Hooker Valley Track
Departing Christchurch, we travel across the scenic Canterbury Plains into the breathtaking Mackenzie Country. Along the way, we'll stop at Lake Tekapo to admire its vivid turquoise waters and visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd - perfect for a photo or two. Our journey continues to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, where we'll stretch our legs on a relaxed walk along the stunning Hooker Valley Track. This rewarding hike offers sweeping views of glaciers on Mt Sefton and The Footstool, as well as the awe-inspiring south face of Aoraki Mt Cook - the tallest peak in New Zealand.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Aoraki Mt Cook National Park
1 stop
2
Today's adventure takes us up the legendary 2,200 steps to Sealy Tarns, where we'll pause to soak in sweeping views of the Hooker and Mueller Glaciers along with the ice-carved peaks of Aoraki Mt Cook. If conditions allow, we'll continue higher onto the Sealy Range and along the ridge to Mueller Hut. Before descending, we'll rest and enjoy the incredible reward - breathtaking 360-degree views of glaciers, ice cliffs, and the towering rock faces of New Zealand's highest mountains. For those seeking a different kind of thrill, this afternoon offers the additional option to join the Glacier Explorers boat tour on Tasman Glacier Lake - a remarkable experience that brings you up close to New Zealand's longest glacier. If you'd like to add this option to your tour, please let us know at the time of booking.
6 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 3
Aoraki Mt Cook National Park - Lake Ōhau
1 stop
3
Today, we head further south to make the most of the outdoor adventures this region has to offer. Our first stop is nearby Twizel, where you'll be fitted with your e-bike for a ride along a scenic section of the renowned Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail. Pedal along peaceful canal roads, cross the Lake Ōhau weir, and follow a purpose-built track that winds around the shoreline of this stunning glacial lake. With breathtaking views at every turn, there will be plenty of time to stop, take photos, and soak up the turquoise waters and surrounding mountains. We'll arrive at our Lake Ōhau accommodation by bike and have time in the afternoon to relax, wander down to the lake for a swim or soak in the spa pool. Tonight, we'll relax and enjoy dinner and accommodation at the welcoming Lake Ōhau Lodge.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 4
Lake Ōhau - Wānaka
1 stop
4
Today we leave the Mackenzie Country behind and journey into the stunning Central Otago region. Our route takes us over the scenic Lindis Pass, offering sweeping views of tussock-clad mountains. Arriving in Wānaka, we follow the lakeshore road towards the dramatic peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park. This afternoon's hike takes us into the lower Matukituki Valley, where we explore Diamond Lake and ascend Rocky Mountain - a striking glacially carved formation known as a roche moutonnée (or "rock sheep"). From the summit, we'll be treated to panoramic views over Lake Wānaka and out to the Southern Alps, including the majestic Tititea Mount Aspiring. Trail options range from the gentle loop around Diamond Lake to the more challenging climb to Rocky Mountain's summit. We'll spend the next two nights in Wānaka, a charming alpine town with a vibrant lakefront atmosphere.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 5
Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail
1 stop
5
Today's adventure takes us trail cycling on e-bikes through one of Central Otago's most striking landscapes. We begin in "new" Cromwell, a town reborn after the original settlement was partially submerged in the early 1990s by the creation of Lake Dunstan. From here, we follow the scenic Lake Dunstan Trail which winds around the Kawarau Arm to Bannockburn, a former gold mining area now celebrated for its vineyards and world-class pinot noir. The adventure ramps up as we enter the dramatic Cromwell Gorge. The trail clings to rocky bluffs, crossing impressive boardwalks cantilevered over the water from sheer rock faces, and a high suspension bridge - truly a cycling experience to remember. Our ride ends in the charming historic town of Clyde, where there's time to explore restored stone buildings now home to boutique shops and cafés. We return to Wānaka for a second night, full of fresh air and good cheer.
4 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 6
Kepler Track - Te Anau
1 stop
6
Kepler Track
Today we travel to the lakeside town of Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Our hike takes us through lush beech forest to the shores of Lake Manapouri, often described as the "loveliest of all lakes." With its scattered islands, bush-fringed beaches, hidden coves, and a dramatic mountain backdrop, it's easy to see why this lake captures the hearts of so many visitors. This walk offers the perfect introduction to the grandeur and serenity of Fiordland. We'll take our time along the track, soaking up the natural beauty and stopping for photos. We settle into our accommodation in Te Anau, where we'll stay for the next two nights.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 7
Routeburn Track - Milford Sound - Te Anau
1 stop
7
Milford Sound
Today is all about experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Fiordland. We begin with a stop at The Divide for a hike on the famous Routeburn Track. Climbing to Key Summit, we'll be rewarded with panoramic views of ice-capped peaks, alpine lakes, and deep glacially carved valleys. We then continue to Milford where we'll board a two-hour cruise through this awe-inspiring fiord, surrounded by towering cliffs that rise dramatically from the water's edge. As we glide through the pristine waters, keep an eye out for playful dolphins, curious fur seals, and, if we're lucky, the elusive Fiordland crested penguin. The serenity and scale of Milford Sound will leave you speechless. On our return to Te Anau, we'll stop at scenic lookouts for photos and to reflect on a truly awe-inspiring day.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 8
Queenstown
1 stop
8
Queenstown
We say goodbye to Fiordland and travel to Queenstown, where we'll enjoy a celebratory final brunch. A chance to reflect, share stories, and toast to the incredible adventure we've had together. Our journey concludes in Queenstown after our brunch. Drop-off locations at the end of the trip are limited, as many Queenstown accommodations are inaccessible to our touring vehicle. Available drop-off locations are Queenstown Airport, or in central Queenstown at the Copthorne Hotel Lakefront or the iSite Visitor Centre.
1 hour • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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