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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.

Enroll with Confidence

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more

Protecting the Environment

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more

Program
At a Glance
Duration
22 days
Program Begins
Hamilton
Program Concludes
Wellington
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
54 ( 19B, 17L, 18D )
Activity Level
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.
Best of all, you'll...
  • Take expert-led hikes over the Tongariro Crossing in Tongariro National Park and in Aoraki/Mount 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.
Profile Image
Elspeth Jaine
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.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
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 (13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (14 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call 800-454-5768
Enroll with Confidence
Peace of Mind

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.

Assurance Plan

Road Scholar's continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our International programs, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan.

Want to Protect Your Investment?

Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.

Sustainable Travel

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.






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