New Zealand Walking & Hiking

Day 1

Meet your Backroads Trip Leaders (the folks wearing Backroads T-shirts) at 8:30 a.m. at The George hotel in downtown Christchurch. Please arrive dressed in your hiking clothes and have your rain jacket handy.

Shuttle to Godley Head 30 Minutes
Godley Head Hike 2 Miles
Shuttle to Kura Tawhiti 2 Hours
Kura Tawhiti Hike 1.7 Miles
Shuttle to Arthur’s Pass 30 Minutes

Welcome to wild and wonderful New Zealand! After meeting in Christchurch, we shuttle southeast to Sumner and the Godley Head recreation area, the northern headland of the Lyttelton Harbour Basin. Warm up your legs on an easy downhill hike to Taylor’s Mistake (named for the U.S. sea captain who mistook the bay for the entrance to Lyttelton Harbour) and enjoy spectacular views of the Banks Peninsula, Christchurch and the South Pacific.

Returning to the Backroads vans, we head toward Arthur’s Pass and the strange geological treasure of Kura Tawhiti, stopping for lunch in the small farming town of Darfield along the way. The vast rolling green hills at Kura Tawhiti are dotted with giant, curiously shaped limestone monoliths. Take time to stroll between the outcroppings, considered a sacred site by local Maori. After exploring we shuttle to the Wilderness Lodge Arthur’s Pass, a unique hybrid of secluded resort and working sheep station, designed to conserve and showcase the natural environment. Relax and relish the spectacular panorama from your room. During our two-night stay here, take advantage of the opportunity to watch a sheepdog herd a flock of Merino sheep and see a sheep-shearing demonstration done the old-fashioned way—by hand! We gather tonight for cocktails followed by a gourmet dinner—a rather unexpected surprise in this remote wilderness setting.

Lodging: Wilderness Lodge Arthur’s Pass

Day 2

Musterers Hut Hike 7.6 Miles (1,800-foot elevation gain)
Longer Option: Summit 9.8 Miles (2,800-foot elevation gain)

Join your Backroads Trip Leaders on a morning hike up Bealey Spur, past alpine lakes to a historic sheep station hut once used by musterers (shepherds) during the days of high-country sheep farming. The route climbs gently through a lush beech forest with a soft mossy floor and offers grand views of the surrounding snowcapped peaks and braided Waimakariri River. This is a great outing for bird-lovers—look for New Zealand’s smallest bird, the rifleman, as well as grey warblers, bellbirds, harrier hawks and the gregarious alpine parrot called the kea. Continue to the summit for a magnificent 360-degree view. We reconvene this evening for another wonderful meal.

Lodging: Wilderness Lodge Arthur’s Pass

Day 3

Shuttle to Devil’s Punchbowl Falls 30 Minutes
Devil’s Punchbowl Falls Hike 1.3 Miles (400-foot elevation gain)
Shuttle to Punakaiki 2 Hours
Pororari Punakaiki Loop 5.3 Miles (500-foot elevation gain)
Shorter Option: 3 Miles (100-foot elevation gain)

After a hearty breakfast at the lodge, we shuttle to the trailhead for today’s alpine hike. Follow a scenic path to vistas of the impressive Devil’s Punchbowl Falls, a 429-foot waterfall in the dramatic Arthur’s Pass hills. (This hike is weather-dependent. If it is not a possible option, your Trip Leaders have several other hikes from which to choose.) The beauty of the area is undeniable; summertime is best for observing flowers in bloom, and plants and shrubs, such as the New Zealand lily, alpine Hebe, alpine Olerias, Coprosmas and the spiky Spaniard.

Our next stop is the seaside town of Punakaiki, home to the curious Pancake Rocks. These columnar limestone and mudstone formations were created by an earthquake millions of years ago, then sculpted by powerful natural forces of rain, sea and wind into what appear to be stacks of pancakes. Heavy swells funneling through a series of blowholes create a remarkable display of geysers, especially at high tide. After a traditional New Zealand pub lunch, hike along the Pororari River by way of a verdant subtropical rain forest, alive with massive tree ferns, huge rata trees and New Zealand’s only palm, the nikau. Periodically the path opens up to vistas of rivers and beaches, and reveals glimpses of the canyon-like karst formations for which this part of Paparoa National Park is known. Joining the Inland Pack Track, we move away from the river and cross into the neighboring Punakaiki River Valley, passing through tall stands of native New Zealand podocarp trees. The only way to cross the Punakaiki River is on foot, so prepare to get wet up to your shins. You’ll be glad you brought your sports sandals or an extra pair of sneakers—not to mention your spirit of adventure!

Back on dry land, we continue along a gravel road through farmland to the Punakaiki Resort, a casual eco-friendly hotel nestled into a hillside overlooking the sea. This evening we gather at the hotel’s Waterline Restaurant for cocktails and a dinner overlooking the Tasman Sea.

Lodging: Punakaiki Resort

Day 4

Shuttle to Hokitika 1 Hour
Shuttle to Hari Hari Trailhead 1½ Hours
Hari Hari Coastal Walkway Hike 4.7 Miles (250-foot elevation gain)
Shorter Option: Beach Route 3.6 Miles (250-foot elevation gain)
Shuttle to Franz Josef 1½ Hours

Today starts with a drive down the incredible coast to the gold-rush town of Hokitika, passing through the seaside settlements of Rununga and Greymouth. You’ll have time to explore Hokitika, famous for crafts and jade carvings. Consider taking a tour of the Greenstone Factory to see how immense boulders are ground and cut by diamond saws, then sculpted into beautiful jade jewelry.

Later we continue by shuttle to the trailhead of our afternoon hike—notice the coastal farmland giving way to lush native vegetation as we near our destination. Set out on foot along the Hari Hari Coastal Walkway, which winds through a forest of regenerating kahikatea, rimu, silver pine and lancewood trees flanking the Poerua River and ends at a beach. Savor the fantastic view (on a clear day) stretching from the Tasman Sea to the Southern Alps, and from the Punakaiki coast to Fox Glacier. After a stroll on the beach, make your way back through the forest or, if you don’t mind getting a little wet, take a shortcut across the Wanganui River.

The town of Franz Josef welcomes us for the next couple of nights. Settle into your cozy room at the peaceful Westwood Lodge, situated on the outskirts of town among lush bush and rugged peaks.

Lodging: Westwood Lodge

Day 5

Optional Activities in Franz Josef
Callery-Waiho Gorge Hike 5 Miles (350-foot elevation gain)

The Franz Josef Glacier is one of the few glaciers in the world that descends into temperate rain forest—a unique mingling of cascading ice and lush vegetation. If you’d like to explore the glacier up close, there are several spectacular ways to do so. Weather permitting, you can take a scenic flight over the glacier or embark on a guided walk on its terminal face. You can also opt for a two-hour boat excursion into the ecologically rich wetlands of the Okatiro Lagoon. (These activities are not included in the trip price; however, Backroads has reserved space and your leaders will help you make arrangements. See your Travel Planner for details on pricing.)

In the afternoon, consider tackling a moderately challenging hike from Franz Josef Glacier, across rough and rocky terrain, to the town of Franz Josef. We begin by driving to the end of the glacier road and then ascend on foot to Sentinel Rock for a grand vista of the glacier. From here, join the Callery Track, passing Peter’s Pool and historic stands of dense kamahi and rata trees thick with luxuriant mosses. Follow a boardwalk to the spectacular Callery River Gorge; the massive suspension bridge crossing the expanse is an excellent spot to stop and pull out your camera. On hot days you can see (and hear) chunks of glacial ice floating down the river. After making your way to the other side of the river, continue to Franz Josef or retrace your steps across the bridge and take a loop trail back to the main road to meet up with the van.

You’re on your own for lunch and dinner today. There are several restaurants in the bustling township of Franz Josef to choose from; your leaders are happy to make recommendations.

Lodging: Westwood Lodge

Day 6

Shuttle to Lake Matheson 30 Minutes
Lake Matheson Loop 2.7 Miles (150-foot elevation gain)
Fox Glacier Valley Hike 3 Miles (100-foot elevation gain)
Shuttle to Lake Moeraki 1½ Hours

Today begins with a shuttle to magnificent Lake Matheson, which was actually an enormous slab of glacial ice 14,000 years ago. Our walk circles the lake, one of the most photographed in New Zealand. You’ll want to have your camera handy. Then it’s a short drive to the start of a breathtaking out-and-back hike in the Fox Glacier Valley. Heading into the mountains, tramp through spectacular scenery up to the terminal face of the commanding Fox Glacier. This craggy serpentine river of ice flows 20 miles out of the rugged peaks and ends amid lush rain forest only 1,000 feet above sea level.

We stop for lunch at a wonderful café before shuttling to our next destination. Leaving the glacier region behind, we travel to the Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki, a quiet rain forest hideaway. (―Moeraki‖ is Maori for ―to sleep or dream by day.‖)
The Moeraki is a sister property of the Wilderness Lodge Arthur’s Pass and offers the same exceptional quality of cuisine and selection of fine wines.

Lodging: Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki

Day 7

Optional Activities at Lake Moeraki
Munro Beach Walk 4.5 Miles (50-foot elevation gain)

The day is yours to explore your glorious surroundings. Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki is beautifully situated in the heart of the Te Wahi Pounamu World Heritage area, which protects ancient forests from future development and preserves the region’s pristine beauty and unique wildlife, including flightless birds that evolved without natural predators. Naturalists at the lodge offer a wide variety of activities appropriate to the weather and season. You can set out on a beautiful hike through the rain forest before climbing into a canoe for a paddle across the lake. Or you might prefer to explore nearby well-marked trails and then end with an invigorating swim. (Guided activities are also available but are not included in the trip price).

After lunch, embark on a rain forest walk to spectacular Munro Beach. Down at the water, scour the beach for pounamu, New Zealand’s native jade, or just enjoy wonderful Tasman views and pounding surf. This evening we meet in the lodge’s lovely riverside lounge before sitting down for dinner.

Lodging: Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki

Day 8

Shuttle to Blue Pools 1 Hour
Blue Pools Walk 2.5 Miles (200-foot elevation gain)
Shuttle to Wanaka 2 Hours

Diamond Lake/Rocky Mountain Track Hike 5.5 Miles (1,350-foot elevation gain)

This morning we take a scenic drive down the coast and over the dramatic Haast Pass, stopping along the way to stretch our legs on an easygoing walk. Make your way through a thick forest of beech, lancewood and totara trees en route to banks of the rushing Makarora River. A swing bridge crosses the water and connects to a viewing platform overlooking clear blue pools teeming with rainbow trout. Returning to the vans, we continue to the town of Wanaka and enjoy a delicious picnic.

This afternoon’s hike follows a trail that was created as a community project. It’s touted by its creators as ―perhaps one of New Zealand’s most beautiful half-day hikes;‖ you decide. It’s a fairly steady climb up to Rocky Mountain’s summit, but there are some particularly steep sections you’ll have to negotiate. While the hike certainly comes with challenges, on a clear day the 360-degree vista of the surrounding mountains makes it all worthwhile.

We spend the next two nights at the luxurious Edgewater Resort, offering a serene setting and plenty of amenities, including tennis courts, a putting green, sauna and hot tub. This evening you’re on your own to explore Wanaka and its numerous restaurants.

Lodging: Edgewater Resort Hotel

Day 9

Optional Activities around Wanaka
Optional Albert Town to Wanaka Walk 8 Miles (150-foot elevation gain)

Today you’re encouraged to explore lovely Wanaka and its environs. For a fantastic day trip, consider taking a scenic flight over the Southern Alps to Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s most famous natural treasures. The outing includes a boat cruise through the sound, with views of dramatic cliffs laced with waterfalls and covered with dense foliage. If you opt to stay in Wanaka, try canoeing on the lake, paragliding, jet-boating or golfing. (These activities are not included in the trip price. Backroads has reserved space on the scenic flight and your Trip Leaders will help to make arrangements once you are on the trip. See your Travel Planner for details on pricing.)

If you’re in the mood for a long walk, shuttle to Albert Town to begin today’s optional hike. Follow the Clutha River to Lake Wanaka, making your way through the affluent neighborhoods surrounding the lake and returning to Wanaka. You’re on your own for lunch today, so sit down to a leisurely meal or grab a quick bite between activities.

Tonight we convene in the Edgewater’s dining room for a farewell dinner. Raise your glass to new friends and lasting memories of your Kiwi adventure.

Lodging: Edgewater Resort Hotel

Day 10

Mount Iron Hike 2.5 Miles (400-foot elevation gain)
Shuttle to Queenstown 1½ Hours

Make the most of your last day with an early-morning trek up Mount Iron, an impressive glacial rock formation rising high above the surrounding countryside. Pass through farmland and manuka woodland on your way to the top, where you can savor panoramic views that include Lakes Wanaka and Hawea, and a patchwork of farms across the Cardrona Valley. The distant snowcapped peaks of the Harris Mountains and Mount Aspiring complete the breathtaking scene.

After breakfast back at the hotel, we shuttle to the Queenstown airport.