New Zealand

Active New Zealand: Hike, Bike and Paddle the South Island

Program No. 20621RJ
New Zealand is stunning. Come explore this outdoor adventurer’s paradise as you raft the Hurunui River, cycle on scenic trails, and hike mountains familiar from the “Lord of the Rings.”

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Protecting the Environment

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At a Glance

For outdoor enthusiasts who live for snow-capped mountain peaks, pristine coastlines, and immaculate cycle paths through stunning landscapes, New Zealand’s South Island is the ultimate destination. In the shadow of the stunning Southern Alps, hike through valleys and along trails you might recognize from the “Lord of the Rings” movies. Experience the thrill of river rafting through rocky gorges and cycle a rail trail through spectacular wide-open tussock country. Absorb the majesty of towering granite walls and waterfalls as you cruise by vessel through glacier-carved Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Hiking up to six miles on mixed, sometimes hilly terrain, cycling up to 20 miles on mostly flat terrain, and river rafting.
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

  • Enjoy an exhilarating day of expert-led rafting on the pristine Hurunui River.
  • Bike the Otago Rail Trail, a well-maintained gravel path through rocky gorges and past small villages.
  • Wonder at the spectacular beauty of Fiordland's Milford Sound by vessel.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Russell Davie
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.

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

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 Nicola Cardwell
Nicola Cardwell View biography
Nicola Cardwell originally trained as a registered nurse but has spent many recent years working as an administrator at the local hospice. However, she is now self-employed, providing administration services as a contractor, and is enjoying a more flexible lifestyle. She enjoys walking, gardening, reading, cycling, and a range of outdoor activities. Bruce and Nicola have four grown-up children and are now experiencing the joy of being grandparents.
Profile Image of Esther Sassenburg
Esther Sassenburg View biography
Esther Sassenburg is Dutch born, married to Eric, and lives in Nelson. Her main career has been in urban planning, and she has worked in countries around the world. After settling in New Zealand, she became a teacher, specializing in Social Sciences. This has given her a broad general knowledge of the country. In her free time, Esther loves the outdoors, particularly tramping (hiking), cycling, and water sports. Esther also has an interest in European languages and currently works as a French language teacher.
Profile Image of Eric McPherson
Eric McPherson View biography
Eric McPherson is married to Esther. He is a retired cabinetmaker and wood machinist and ran his own furniture-joinery business. Now in his free time he is doing community volunteering, mainly environmental and predator control work, and is a mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters. Eric also enjoys tramping (hiking), recreational cycling, kayaking, and jogging. He has a passion for classic motorcycles and DIY in his garage.
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.





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