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New Zealand

Hiking Under Southern Skies

Program No. 11592RJ
Hike the iconic trails of New Zealand, including sections of the world-renowned 'Great Walks', and discover National Parks and traditional Maori culture alongside local experts.

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At a Glance

Challenge your mind and body on some of New Zealand's most spectacular hiking trails. Hike over the world-renowned Tongariro Crossing and sections of the celebrated Routeburn and Kepler Tracks, two of New Zealand's designated 'Great Walks'. As a special highlight, enjoy four nights on Stewart Island, a native wildlife sanctuary seldom accessible to visiting groups.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Challenging
Categorized as Challenging, you will be hiking 6-10 miles daily on mixed terrain that is frequently hilly (undulating), rocky or uneven. Ascents of up to 2,000 feet. Elevations up to 6,000 feet.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Take expert-led hikes over the Tongariro Crossing in Tongariro National Park and in Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park.
  • Experience Maori culture including the powhiri (formal welcome), traditional songs, dances and hakas.
  • Hike sections of the world-renowned Routeburn and Kepler Tracks, two of New Zealand's designated 'Great Walks'.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Peter Brady
Pete Brady was born and bred in Wellington, New Zealand. His working careers have been in land surveying, backcountry leading, outdoor instructing at the NZ Outward Bound School and ranger in New Zealand National Parks and Reserves. Pete has extensive experience in risk assessment and managing groups in the outdoors. He has traveled extensively throughout New Zealand on foot, pushbike, horse-drawn wagon, kayak and motor vehicle. Pete's interests include his family, natural history, photography, surfing, running and transalpine tramping (hiking).

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Peter Brady
Peter Brady View biography
Pete Brady was born and bred in Wellington, New Zealand. His working careers have been in land surveying, backcountry leading, outdoor instructing at the NZ Outward Bound School and ranger in New Zealand National Parks and Reserves. Pete has extensive experience in risk assessment and managing groups in the outdoors. He has traveled extensively throughout New Zealand on foot, pushbike, horse-drawn wagon, kayak and motor vehicle. Pete's interests include his family, natural history, photography, surfing, running and transalpine tramping (hiking).
Profile Image of Russell Davie
Russell Davie View biography
Russell Davie is an ex-dairy farmer with a background in geology, geography, soil mineralogy and volcanology, with a particular interest in the Fiordland area, in and around Te Anau, where he now lives and the lake, which bears the same name.
Profile Image of Bruce Cardwell
Bruce Cardwell View biography
Bruce has gained extensive experience in the New Zealand outdoors as an instructor, manager and governance of the New Zealand Outward Bound School. He enjoys adventures, traveling, cycling, reading and cooking. He initiated an aquaculture consultancy business, based in Blenheim, offering professional advice and assistance in New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom to the seafood and natural products industries.
Profile Image of Elspeth Jaine
Elspeth Jaine View biography
Elspeth Jaine, originally from Scotland, has lived in mid-Canterbury, New Zealand, since 1986. She and her husband Charles have farmed sheep and cattle near Mt. Somers for most of that time. Elspeth has also worked as a physiotherapist, been a mother to four (now grown) children, and latterly has run a small visitor exploration venture. Elspeth loves to be in the outdoors and indulge her love of tramping, skiing, biking, and exploring nature. She also enjoys creative pursuits, especially painting and photography.
Profile Image of Charles Lambert
Charles Lambert View biography
Charles Lambert was born in Basra, Iraq. His childhood was spent in India, and at age 10, his family moved to New Zealand. Charles has degrees in accounting and business administration. He has traveled, trekked, and climbed in South America, the European Alps, the Himalaya, and the U.S. He and his wife, Robyn, have served in Vanuatu on Volunteer Service Abroad. Charles is a Rotarian and served as president of clubs in Napier and Nelson over the last 25 years.
Profile Image of Robyn Lambert
Robyn Lambert View biography
Robyn Lambert was born and educated in New Zealand. She has a B.Sc. with honors in geography, and has taught both at home and overseas in a variety of secondary schools. Currently, Robyn and her husband, Charles, live in Nelson, the oldest city in the South Island, where she is involved with a variety of volunteer work involving the Red Cross, refugee resettlement, and Volunteer Service Abroad. To keep fit, she enjoys Zumba, NIA, and hiking.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Meals
54 Meals
19 Breakfasts
17 Lunches
18 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Lodging
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Display
Oct 28, 2024 - Nov 18, 2024
  • Oct 28, 2024 - Nov 18, 2024
  • Oct 28, 2024 - Nov 18, 2024 (Hamilton to Wellington)
  • Jan 20, 2025 - Feb 10, 2025 (Hamilton to Wellington)
  • Feb 17, 2025 - Mar 10, 2025 (Hamilton to Wellington)
  • Mar 17, 2025 - Apr 07, 2025 (Hamilton to Wellington)
  • Oct 28, 2025 - Nov 18, 2025 (Hamilton to Wellington)
1 night
Hamilton
Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton, perfectly positioned with only a short walk to many of the city’s key attractions like FMG Stadium, Seddon Park, Claudelands Event Centre and the CBD. The grounds have plenty of greenery, and with an outdoor swimming pool, children’s pool and hot tub, there is plenty of opportunity to take some time out. Heartland Hotels pride ourselves on providing helpful friendly service to each and every guest. We look forward to making your stay here in Hamilton comfortable and enjoyable.
4 nights
Turangi
Set in 7 acres of tranquil tree studded parkland. Over the last 10 years, owners and congenial hosts Craig Morey and Angela Jones have developed an engaging, convivial environment where visitors mingle with locals, anglers, and guides, providing a delectable taste of small town New Zealand life.
1 night
Rotorua
No description
2 nights
Stavely
No description
2 nights
Twizel
The Mackenzie Country Hotel is instantly recognisable by its classic stonework exterior, reflecting the distinctive mountain and river landscapes of the Mackenzie region. The spacious and mature grounds are a key feature of this idyllic country setting.
4 nights
Te Anau
Te Anau is the hub of the Fiordland region and the perfect base for your adventures. From the moment you arrive, you'll enjoy the convenience of being located in close proximity to the Te Anau town centre for business, shops, entertainment and other activities. At Bella Vista Te Anau we cater for all your business or recreational needs. Bella Vista Motel offers superior studio and family units, all serviced daily. Walk to town centre, cafes, restaurants and bars.
4 nights
Te Anau
We offer warm, comfortable and affordable accommodation. Whether you have an appetite for fresh air, adventure and mountains or would like to experience a delicious meal with fine wine, Te Anau – Fiordland provides the perfect mix for an unforgettable holiday.
4 nights
Bluff
The South Sea Hotel is a Stewart Island icon, with a strong footing in Island life, both past and present. The hotel has a fully licensed bar, restaurant, hotel and motel accommodation. Situated in the middle of Halfmoon Bay, just a stones throw from the beach, the hotel is an ideal base for your Stewart Island holiday. The staff can advise you on local attractions and activities and help you with your booking. When you arrive onto the island, either by ferry or plane, the hotel is only a 3 minute walk away.
1 night
Wellington
Very central location- easy walking distance from Museum of New Zealand, central library and theatres, Many attractive shops of all kinds are also adjacent and a delightful waterfront park is just a few minutes away.
See All Lodging Options
1 night
Hamilton
Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton, perfectly positioned with only a short walk to many of the city’s key attractions like FMG Stadium, Seddon Park, Claudelands Event Centre and the CBD. The grounds have plenty of greenery, and with an outdoor swimming pool, children’s pool and hot tub, there is plenty of opportunity to take some time out. Heartland Hotels pride ourselves on providing helpful friendly service to each and every guest. We look forward to making your stay here in Hamilton comfortable and enjoyable.
4 nights
Turangi
Set in 7 acres of tranquil tree studded parkland. Over the last 10 years, owners and congenial hosts Craig Morey and Angela Jones have developed an engaging, convivial environment where visitors mingle with locals, anglers, and guides, providing a delectable taste of small town New Zealand life.
1 night
Rotorua
No description
2 nights
Stavely
No description
2 nights
Twizel
The Mackenzie Country Hotel is instantly recognisable by its classic stonework exterior, reflecting the distinctive mountain and river landscapes of the Mackenzie region. The spacious and mature grounds are a key feature of this idyllic country setting.
4 nights
Te Anau
Welcome to the Arran Motel, Te Anau, where our spacious, modern motel/apartments accommodation is the perfect base to start your Fiordland adventure or simply relax in the beauty of Te Anau itself. It is a 2-minute walk to Lake Te Anau (quiet area, sheltered from the lake breeze).
4 nights
Te Anau
Te Anau is the hub of the Fiordland region and the perfect base for your adventures. From the moment you arrive, you'll enjoy the convenience of being located in close proximity to the Te Anau town centre for business, shops, entertainment and other activities. At Bella Vista Te Anau we cater for all your business or recreational needs. Bella Vista Motel offers superior studio and family units, all serviced daily. Walk to town centre, cafes, restaurants and bars.
4 nights
Bluff
The South Sea Hotel is a Stewart Island icon, with a strong footing in Island life, both past and present. The hotel has a fully licensed bar, restaurant, hotel and motel accommodation. Situated in the middle of Halfmoon Bay, just a stones throw from the beach, the hotel is an ideal base for your Stewart Island holiday. The staff can advise you on local attractions and activities and help you with your booking. When you arrive onto the island, either by ferry or plane, the hotel is only a 3 minute walk away.
1 night
Wellington
Very central location- easy walking distance from Museum of New Zealand, central library and theatres, Many attractive shops of all kinds are also adjacent and a delightful waterfront park is just a few minutes away.
See All Lodging Options
1 night
Hamilton
Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton, perfectly positioned with only a short walk to many of the city’s key attractions like FMG Stadium, Seddon Park, Claudelands Event Centre and the CBD. The grounds have plenty of greenery, and with an outdoor swimming pool, children’s pool and hot tub, there is plenty of opportunity to take some time out. Heartland Hotels pride ourselves on providing helpful friendly service to each and every guest. We look forward to making your stay here in Hamilton comfortable and enjoyable.
4 nights
Turangi
Set in 7 acres of tranquil tree studded parkland. Over the last 10 years, owners and congenial hosts Craig Morey and Angela Jones have developed an engaging, convivial environment where visitors mingle with locals, anglers, and guides, providing a delectable taste of small town New Zealand life.
1 night
Rotorua
No description
2 nights
Stavely
No description
2 nights
Twizel
The Mackenzie Country Hotel is instantly recognisable by its classic stonework exterior, reflecting the distinctive mountain and river landscapes of the Mackenzie region. The spacious and mature grounds are a key feature of this idyllic country setting.
4 nights
Te Anau
Welcome to the Arran Motel, Te Anau, where our spacious, modern motel/apartments accommodation is the perfect base to start your Fiordland adventure or simply relax in the beauty of Te Anau itself. It is a 2-minute walk to Lake Te Anau (quiet area, sheltered from the lake breeze).
4 nights
Te Anau
Te Anau is the hub of the Fiordland region and the perfect base for your adventures. From the moment you arrive, you'll enjoy the convenience of being located in close proximity to the Te Anau town centre for business, shops, entertainment and other activities. At Bella Vista Te Anau we cater for all your business or recreational needs. Bella Vista Motel offers superior studio and family units, all serviced daily. Walk to town centre, cafes, restaurants and bars.
4 nights
Bluff
The South Sea Hotel is a Stewart Island icon, with a strong footing in Island life, both past and present. The hotel has a fully licensed bar, restaurant, hotel and motel accommodation. Situated in the middle of Halfmoon Bay, just a stones throw from the beach, the hotel is an ideal base for your Stewart Island holiday. The staff can advise you on local attractions and activities and help you with your booking. When you arrive onto the island, either by ferry or plane, the hotel is only a 3 minute walk away.
1 night
Wellington
Very central location- easy walking distance from Museum of New Zealand, central library and theatres, Many attractive shops of all kinds are also adjacent and a delightful waterfront park is just a few minutes away.
See All Lodging Options
1 night
Hamilton
Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton, perfectly positioned with only a short walk to many of the city’s key attractions like FMG Stadium, Seddon Park, Claudelands Event Centre and the CBD. The grounds have plenty of greenery, and with an outdoor swimming pool, children’s pool and hot tub, there is plenty of opportunity to take some time out. Heartland Hotels pride ourselves on providing helpful friendly service to each and every guest. We look forward to making your stay here in Hamilton comfortable and enjoyable.
4 nights
Turangi
Set in 7 acres of tranquil tree studded parkland. Over the last 10 years, owners and congenial hosts Craig Morey and Angela Jones have developed an engaging, convivial environment where visitors mingle with locals, anglers, and guides, providing a delectable taste of small town New Zealand life.
1 night
Rotorua
No description
2 nights
Stavely
No description
2 nights
Twizel
The Mackenzie Country Hotel is instantly recognisable by its classic stonework exterior, reflecting the distinctive mountain and river landscapes of the Mackenzie region. The spacious and mature grounds are a key feature of this idyllic country setting.
4 nights
Te Anau
Welcome to the Arran Motel, Te Anau, where our spacious, modern motel/apartments accommodation is the perfect base to start your Fiordland adventure or simply relax in the beauty of Te Anau itself. It is a 2-minute walk to Lake Te Anau (quiet area, sheltered from the lake breeze).
4 nights
Te Anau
Te Anau is the hub of the Fiordland region and the perfect base for your adventures. From the moment you arrive, you'll enjoy the convenience of being located in close proximity to the Te Anau town centre for business, shops, entertainment and other activities. At Bella Vista Te Anau we cater for all your business or recreational needs. Bella Vista Motel offers superior studio and family units, all serviced daily. Walk to town centre, cafes, restaurants and bars.
4 nights
Bluff
The South Sea Hotel is a Stewart Island icon, with a strong footing in Island life, both past and present. The hotel has a fully licensed bar, restaurant, hotel and motel accommodation. Situated in the middle of Halfmoon Bay, just a stones throw from the beach, the hotel is an ideal base for your Stewart Island holiday. The staff can advise you on local attractions and activities and help you with your booking. When you arrive onto the island, either by ferry or plane, the hotel is only a 3 minute walk away.
1 night
Wellington
Very central location- easy walking distance from Museum of New Zealand, central library and theatres, Many attractive shops of all kinds are also adjacent and a delightful waterfront park is just a few minutes away.
See All Lodging Options
1 night
Hamilton
Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton, perfectly positioned with only a short walk to many of the city’s key attractions like FMG Stadium, Seddon Park, Claudelands Event Centre and the CBD. The grounds have plenty of greenery, and with an outdoor swimming pool, children’s pool and hot tub, there is plenty of opportunity to take some time out. Heartland Hotels pride ourselves on providing helpful friendly service to each and every guest. We look forward to making your stay here in Hamilton comfortable and enjoyable.
4 nights
Turangi
Set in 7 acres of tranquil tree studded parkland. Over the last 10 years, owners and congenial hosts Craig Morey and Angela Jones have developed an engaging, convivial environment where visitors mingle with locals, anglers, and guides, providing a delectable taste of small town New Zealand life.
1 night
Rotorua
No description
2 nights
Stavely
No description
2 nights
Twizel
The Mackenzie Country Hotel is instantly recognisable by its classic stonework exterior, reflecting the distinctive mountain and river landscapes of the Mackenzie region. The spacious and mature grounds are a key feature of this idyllic country setting.
4 nights
Te Anau
Welcome to the Arran Motel, Te Anau, where our spacious, modern motel/apartments accommodation is the perfect base to start your Fiordland adventure or simply relax in the beauty of Te Anau itself. It is a 2-minute walk to Lake Te Anau (quiet area, sheltered from the lake breeze).
4 nights
Te Anau
Te Anau is the hub of the Fiordland region and the perfect base for your adventures. From the moment you arrive, you'll enjoy the convenience of being located in close proximity to the Te Anau town centre for business, shops, entertainment and other activities. At Bella Vista Te Anau we cater for all your business or recreational needs. Bella Vista Motel offers superior studio and family units, all serviced daily. Walk to town centre, cafes, restaurants and bars.
4 nights
Bluff
The South Sea Hotel is a Stewart Island icon, with a strong footing in Island life, both past and present. The hotel has a fully licensed bar, restaurant, hotel and motel accommodation. Situated in the middle of Halfmoon Bay, just a stones throw from the beach, the hotel is an ideal base for your Stewart Island holiday. The staff can advise you on local attractions and activities and help you with your booking. When you arrive onto the island, either by ferry or plane, the hotel is only a 3 minute walk away.
1 night
Wellington
Very central location- easy walking distance from Museum of New Zealand, central library and theatres, Many attractive shops of all kinds are also adjacent and a delightful waterfront park is just a few minutes away.
See All Lodging Options





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