4.63 495 Reviews

New Zealand Winter Adventure

5 - 14 Days
All Prices:
- 5 Days - USD $3899 (+tax)
- 8 Days - USD $4599 (+tax)
- 14 Days - USD $5499 (+tax)
10 People Max

5 - 12 guests
Activity Level 4
- Activity Level 4
  
  Challenge Accepted
  
  I'll let my trusty guides sweat the small things, so I can focus on my goal. Getting to the top, reaching the end, achieving my dreams! Sure, it'll be tough, but the views will be worth it.
Read more about the Active Range
Trip Start: Christchurch
Trip End: Christchurch

Price
USD $5499/per adult (+tax)

Tax info:
Our New Zealand trip fares are subject to Goods and Services Tax (GST 15%)
Next available departure
1 May - 14 May

View more dates (25)

Our Activity Levels

Activity Level 1

What's The Rush?

I'm active and in decent shape and not looking to experience a place just through a bus window. I'm happy to slow down on the trail, soak it in and breathe in the fresh air.

Walking: 2-3 hours per day on gentle-gradient trails.
Other activities: On these trips, you'll be taking part in a range of other activities that focus less on building up a sweat and more on enjoying the finer things in life.
Activity Level 2

On the Move

Sure, I own some hiking boots, they're even worn in, but they don't go on long trips. I like my creature comforts and I like to give a range of activities a go.

Walking: 2-4 hours per day on gentle to moderate gradient trails. No multi-day hikes.
Biking: 1-3 hours, cruisy rides achievable by anyone, even first-timers. Kayaking: 1-3 hours, entry-level sea kayaking with specialist guides and stable boats.
Other activities (i.e. snorkeling): Always optional and very little exertion required. A highlight for many!
Activity Level 3

Earn Your Lunch

I stay active on vacation and love the feeling of relaxing after a busy day on the go. I season my trips with a little fresh exercise.

Hiking: Typically, 3-6 hours per day on well-formed backcountry trails. Expect some significant gradient inclines and declines.
Altitude: Your trip may include some moderate altitude areas, though these don't form the focus of the trip and are generally manageable.
Biking: 1-3 hours on well-formed paths or roads where you can expect some hills with moderate climbs and descents.
Kayaking: 1-3 hours, entry-level sea kayaking with specialist guides and stable boats.
Other activities (i.e. caving): Always optional and very little exertion required. A highlight for many!
Activity Level 4

Challenge Accepted

I'll let my trusty guides sweat the small things, so I can focus on my goal. Getting to the top, reaching the end, achieving my dreams! Sure, it'll be tough, but the views will be worth it.

Hiking / Trekking: Typically, 4–6-hour hikes with options for more, sometimes with limited or no vehicle support and nearly always with ascents and descents.
Altitude: Some trips at this level will reach a significant altitude. We are here to help you manage that and make your experience one to cherish for a lifetime.
Biking & Kayaking: If one, or both, of these activities are 'your thing,' there are trip options in this range, allowing you to be on two wheels or with a paddle in your hand for most of the day.
Activity Level 5

The Upper Limit

I'm ready to put in the hard work to reap the rewards. I'm a seasoned adventurer, not afraid to get my boots wet.

Trekking & Altitude: This is classic trekking, at altitude. Some might even call it 'expedition-style.' We've had folks from all walks of life achieve their dreams on our grade 5 trips, so if you're in for a challenge get in touch to find out if this is for you.

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Experience the South Island of New Zealand with its winter coat on, dressed in silence, on our New Zealand winter adventure.

Discover the South Island without the crowds on our 14-day New Zealand Winter Adventure hiking trip. To let you in on a secret, exploring the dramatic landscapes of the South Island during New Zealand's winter months is largely underrated. Between May and September, ski fields come to life and mountains look spectacular covered in snow. However, trails once busy during the summer months are now exclusively yours and huts once packed full of keen hikers sit empty, waiting for a small group to enjoy their beauty. Our New Zealand Winter Adventure has been crafted specifically for our mild winters. You'll enjoy a sunrise cruise on Milford Sound, soak in hot pools under vibrant stars at Welcome Flats Hut on the Copland Track, hike the Kepler Track, Mt Aspiring National Park and under the towering mountains of Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. If you're ready to see New Zealand in all its beauty, our New Zealand Winter Adventure is calling your name.

New Zealand Winter Adventure ~ Itinerary

Trip Start: Christchurch Trip End: Christchurch

Day 1Arrive to Christchurch, hike Mt John
Day 2Hike Aoraki Mt Cook National Park or ski/snowboard Ohau Ski Area
Day 3Mt Aspiring Hut: Hike and overnight in Mt Aspiring National Park
Day 4Hike out of Mt Aspiring National Park and bike Wanaka
Day 5Free day in Queenstown
Day 6Hike Kepler Track and explore Te Anau glow worm caves
Day 7Cruise on Milford Sound, explore Fiordland National Park
Day 8Scenic journey to the West Coast
Day 9Start your multi-day hike to Copland Valley hot pools on the West Coast
Day 10Multi-day hike continued: Hike up the Copland Valley
Day 11Final day of the multi-day hike, head to Franz Josef township
Day 12Kayak Okarito Lagoon, hike near Franz Josef Glacier
Day 13Hike Punakaiki rainforest and beaches
Day 14Depart for home

Day 1

Arrive to Christchurch, hike Mt John

Most people leave the Northern Hemisphere on a Saturday evening, arriving in Auckland early Monday morning. You’ll lose a day crossing the dateline – but you get it back on the way home! It’s a short flight from Auckland to Christchurch on the South Island where we’ll meet you. We then head to Lake Tekapo for a hike along the lakeshore before emerging above the treeline on Mt. John for breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Then we’ll carry on to the remote and beautiful Lake Ohau Lodge. The lodge is tucked in beside an alpine lake, with stunning views stretching across to Aoraki/Mt. Cook and the Southern Alps – the ideal spot to soak in the hot tub and star gaze! Today is a relaxed introduction to New Zealand. Depending on where you’re coming from, you’ll probably find jetlag is no big deal. For instance, it’s a 12 to 13-hour direct overnight flight from the west coast of the USA to Auckland so you’ll appreciate the gentle start to your New Zealand adventure.
Lake Ohau Lodge, Lake Ohau (Lunch, Dinner)
Hiking: 8 kilometers (5 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation +/- 330 meters (1,080 feet)
Day 2

Hike Aoraki Mt Cook National Park or ski/snowboard Ohau Ski Area

After a late breakfast on the balcony overlooking Lake Ohau, we’ll take an impressive hike at the head of Lake Pukaki, up the Hooker Valley to a glacial lake complete with icebergs! This is a great spot for lunch and on a clear day, the views of Aoraki/Mt. Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain, are stunning. We’ll return to the lodge where we’ll enjoy a sumptuous dinner. An option today is to spend the day skiing at the small and friendly Ohau Ski Area, one of the South Island’s more remote backcountry ski fields (for approx. US$125 including gear rental).
Lake Ohau Lodge, Lake Ohau (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Hiking: 9 kilometers (5.6 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation +/- 100 meters (328 feet)
Day 3

Mt Aspiring Hut: Hike and overnight in Mt Aspiring National Park

After leaving Wanaka, we’ll venture up the Matukituki Valley and hike two to three hours into Mt. Aspiring National Park to reach our home for the evening – a spacious mountain hut nestled in a valley in the middle of nowhere. The track meanders past majestic peaks, fresh mountain streams, and natural beech forest. You’ll be carrying a sleeping bag, a few spare clothes, and some food, so your pack won’t weigh much more than a regular day pack. The scenery is off the charts with Mt. Aspiring rising 3033 meters (9951 feet) into the blue sky. It’s amazing how far you’ll feel from civilization after this relatively short walk! Tonight your guide will whip up dinner in the backcountry kitchen while you relax by the fire.
Mt Aspiring Hut, Mt Aspiring National Park (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Hiking: 9 kilometers (5.6 miles), 3-5 hours, elevation + 60 meters (197 feet)
Day 4

Hike out of Mt Aspiring National Park and bike Wanaka

We have a leisurely start today, enjoying breakfast and a cuppa while admiring the view, before hiking back to the trailhead. Along the way, we might encounter the cheeky kea – they’re really inquisitive and like to get pretty close at times! After regrouping in Wanaka, we'll head out for a bike ride along the lakeshore, and then it’s a short but dramatic journey over the Cardrona Saddle to Queenstown, on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, our base for the next couple of days. You’ll sleep sweetly tonight at a lakefront hotel located in the heart of Queenstown
Crowne Plaza Hotel, Queenstown (Breakfast, Lunch)
Hiking: 9 kilometers (5.6 miles), 3-5 hours, elevation - 60 meters (197 feet)
Biking: Up to 10 kilometers (6 miles), 2-3 hours
Day 5

Free day in Queenstown

Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand (if not the world!) and all the comforts of civilization are packed into this tiny resort town: restaurants galore, stylish lounge bars, day spas, and boutiques. You’ll also find incredible optional activities here, including horse trekking, a gondola, fishing, winery tours, a historic steamship, bungy jumping, jet boating, and skydiving as well as some great hiking opportunities. Or you can just soak up the atmosphere by the fire at one of the local cafés or pubs. Your guides will happily share their favorite haunts and point you in the right direction for your free day today. Alternatively, you can go skiing or snowboarding for the day at one of four nearby ski areas (approximate cost US$150 for ski or snowboard hire, transport and lift pass – available as snow conditions suit, generally from June to September).
Crowne Plaza Hotel, Queenstown
Notes: The 5-day trip option ends today after your included breakfast.
Day 6

Hike Kepler Track and explore Te Anau glow worm caves

After breakfast, we’ll travel to Lake Te Anau to hike the Kepler Track, one of New Zealand’s ‘Great Walks’. Unlike most of the other ‘Great Walks’, which evolved from Maori greenstone trails or pioneer exploration routes, the Kepler Track was custom-made and built for pleasure rather than necessity. The track has been carefully crafted to show walkers all the very best features of Fiordland, from the prolific bird life and tussock high country to the huge mountain ranges and vast glacier-carved valleys. This evening we’ll take a boat journey across Lake Te Anau to a glittering grotto of glow worms. These fascinating bugs light the way in a 200-meter system of caves, underground waterfalls, sculpted walls, and swirling pools. From the darkness of the glow worm caves, we’ll head back into the light of Te Anau where we’ll stay the night.
Matai Lodge or Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Te Anau (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7

Cruise on Milford Sound, explore Fiordland National Park

This morning we’ll head towards Milford Sound on one of the most dramatically scenic drives in the world. We’ll pass through the Eglinton Valley, and wind our way through the mountains of Fiordland. Our drive takes us through the Homer Tunnel, an astounding feat of human engineering which must be seen to be believed. Once we arrive you’ll have the opportunity to explore Milford Sound and hopefully spot some friendly fur seals and dolphins. We’ll jump on board a boat cruise, where you’ll gaze in wonder at the waterfalls tumbling down enormous vertical rock faces all around, and journey right out to the entrance of the fiord. This afternoon, we’ll explore the Fiordland wilderness on foot to check out some of its endemic flora and fauna, like the kea (Nestor notabilis), New Zealand’s notoriously cheeky and intelligent alpine parrot and the kotukutuku (Fuchsia excorticate), the world’s largest fuchsia.
Matai Lodge or Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Te Anau (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8

Scenic journey to the West Coast

Today, we’ll be making the scenic journey past beautiful rolling farmland and around the edge of Lake Wakatipu, leaving the dry-arid mountains behind us as we continue driving on the stunning road between Lake Wanaka and Hawea. There will be plenty of time for photo stops and we’ll have some lunch on the way before continuing over the Haast Pass, down into impressively dense rain forest as we near the West coast – a long stretch of gorgeous, rugged coastline with a population of only 40,000 people. We’ll mingle with the ‘coasters’ tonight in the tiny township of Haast, exchanging tales of our adventures at the local pub in front of a roaring fire.
Heartland World Heritage Hotel, Haast (Breakfast, Dinner)
Notes: The 8-day trip option ends today in Queenstown. You will be dropped off en route between Te Anau and Haast.
Day 9

Start your multi-day hike to Copland Valley hot pools on the West Coast

Today we’ll hike into a stunningly beautiful mountain basin, set directly underneath the towering peaks of the Southern Alps, with an awesome highlight – natural hot pools! It’s a challenging six to seven-hour hike 17 kilometers (10 miles) up the Copland Valley with a gradual elevation gain, but it’s absolutely worth it. Our guides are pretty tough and they’ll carry the lion’s share of the load. All you’ll be carrying is a backpack with your sleeping bag, a few spare clothes, and a share of our food. Tonight, we stay in one of New Zealand’s most spacious backcountry huts, a comfortable two-level building. One of the best things about hiking this track in winter is that we may well have the hut all to ourselves! While you soak in the natural hot pools your guide will whip up a hearty dinner.
Welcome Flat Hut, Westland National Park (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Hiking: 18 kilometers (11 miles), 6-7 hours, elevation +420 meters (1,380 feet), - 40 meters (130 feet)
Day 10

Multi-day hike continued: Hike up the Copland Valley

Today we’ll hike further up the track for even more amazing scenery and views of multiple glaciers clinging to the top of the mountain valley. If you prefer, you can have a relaxing day at the hut – soak in the hot pools, enjoy the stunning scenery, or relax with a good book. Either way, the hot pools are without a doubt the star attraction here, closely followed by the dramatic scenery.
Welcome Flat Hut, Westland National Park (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Hiking: As long as we want
Day 11

Final day of the multi-day hike, head to Franz Josef township

An early start sees us on the track, a great time to be hiking with the fresh morning air and stillness. You’ll be feeling sprightly today after a relaxing evening in the rejuvenating hot pools and with the slightly downhill gradient, you’ll be in ‘cruise mode' on the outward hike. Once back at the trailhead, we’ll rest our bodies with a scenic journey up the coast to the township of Franz Josef where we’ll stay for the next couple of nights. Nestled in the rainforest-clad foothills of the Southern Alps, Franz Josef is the heart of New Zealand's glacier country.
Rainforest Retreat, Franz Josef (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Hiking: 18 kilometers (11 miles), 6-7 hours, elevation -420 meters (1,380 feet), + 40 meters (130 feet)
Day 12

Kayak Okarito Lagoon, hike near Franz Josef Glacier

This morning we’ll make a short journey over to Okarito, a little-known beach community on the coast. We’ll take to the water in sea kayaks and glide along the picturesque lagoon, set against a stunning backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Okarito is home to the only native white heron colony in New Zealand, as well as a host of other interesting birds. Once back in Franz Josef, you’ll have the option to take a hike or relax in the hot tub, before enjoying a traditional Kiwi roast dinner.
Rainforest Retreat, Franz Josef (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Kayaking: 2-4 hours
Hiking: 4.2 kilometers (2.6 miles), 1-2 hours, elevation +/- 120 meters (394 feet)
Day 13

Hike Punakaiki rainforest and beaches

This morning, we’ll travel along the coast to check out local art galleries and a pounamu carving workshop (pounamu is Maori for jade) in Hokitika. After lunch, we carry on to Punakaiki, where we’ll hike the Inland Pack Track through temperate rainforest and limestone canyons in the footsteps of the gold miners who established this trail over a century ago. While we’re in Punakaiki, we’ll also check out the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes – aptly named limestone formations that have been sculpted through relentless pounding by the Tasman Sea. Tonight we’ll enjoy a celebratory dinner for the last night of your trip.
The Ocean View Resort, Punakaiki (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Hiking: Inland Pack Track Hike: 6 kilometers (4 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation +/- 130 meters (425 feet)
Hiking: Pancake Rocks Hike: 1 kilometer (0.6 mile), 0.5-1 hour
Day 14

Depart for home

We’ll leave after breakfast for the beautiful journey over Arthurs Pass to Christchurch. This is the last day of your trip, and we’ll leave you refreshed and invigorated from the good food, exercise, rest, and great times you’ll have had with us in New Zealand’s winter landscape.
No Accommodation (Breakfast, Lunch)

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Trip Dates

New Zealand Winter Adventure Departure Dates

Upcoming
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This trip is also available in 5 and 8-day options. The 5-day option starts on Day 1 of the itinerary and ends on Day 5. The 8-day option starts on Day 1 of the itinerary and ends on Day 8. Contact us for more information and prices.

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Interactive Trip Map: Click on the map icons to read details for each day

Photos From the New Zealand Winter Adventure

What Our Guests Say About the Trip

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New Zealand Winter Adventure - July 2021

Exciting itinerary

"Well made itinerary, you will discover most of the best sights in the South Island! read more

"Well made itinerary, you will discover most of the best sights in the South Island! read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

Apin / Pina, Australia

New Zealand Winter Adventure - July 2021

May 31 2021 Winter Rimu

"I was extremely impressed with Greg and Elder. They were genuinely caring and thoughtful. I… read more

"I was extremely impressed with Greg and Elder. They were genuinely caring and thoughtful. I thought they must have been working hard behind the scenes - but never showed this or complained. They were just really good company - fun, genuine, interesting and easy to talk to. There was quite a bit of driving on the trip and I really enjoyed the commentary that Greg gave. It was super interesting, informative and engaging. He gave just enough, but not too much and timed his "commentary stints" really well. As it was such a small group, with just three tourists, I really appreciated Greg and Elder joining us for a few meals as well. There were plenty of opportunities to get out of the van and go for walks, which I appreciated. And of course, the views and scenery were mind-blowing. We were incredibly fortunate with the weather, which was perfect. The accommodation was all really good - with all the comforts needed at the end of the day. read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

Cate, New Zealand

New Zealand Winter Adventure - June 2021

A totally rearranged trip

"My trip was due to commence in Christchurch which was experiencing a red alert bad… read more

"My trip was due to commence in Christchurch which was experiencing a red alert bad weather event. Most of the roads out of the city were blocked by floodwaters. Active adventures rearranged the trip resulting in a magical trip! read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

Trevor, Australia

New Zealand Winter Adventure - September 2019

Totally Awesome

"What a perfect experience! It was like having a personal guides the entire time… read more

"What a perfect experience! It was like having a personal guides the entire time we were there. Everything went off like clockwork.
Active must hire the best of the best guide in New Zealand. read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

Barb, United States

New Zealand Winter Adventure - September 2019

Great introduction to the South Island

"Winter Rimu was an outstanding adventure for me and my wife, in our late 60’s.… read more

"Winter Rimu was an outstanding adventure for me and my wife, in our late 60’s. We are willing to be flexible around poor weather, and are strong hikers. We hiked and toured in some of the most beautiful places of the South Island. The program was packed with carefully planned, artfully presented outdoor adventures. Long and short hikes; rain, snow and blue skies; fern-filled forests, waterfalls and cool bird life. The guiding, transport and a few necessary modifications were all handled gracefully. We feel as if we made new friends everywhere we stopped, and often felt “we’ll have to come back here someday, to spend a few days”. read less

4 Stars (495 reviews)

Cliff, United States

New Zealand Winter Adventure - August 2019

New Zealand in the Winter

"Visiting New Zealand in the winter is not to be missed- uncrowded trails, Milford Sound… read more

"Visiting New Zealand in the winter is not to be missed- uncrowded trails, Milford Sound to yourself and snowcapped peaks at every turn. Active Adventures Winter Rimu trip gives a great and in-depth immersion around the South Island. The variety of activities from hiking, hot springs, kayaking, biking and picture taking are all possible in winter and no crowds means you have these destinations to yourself. A well-planned itinerary and knowledgable guides make this a trip to add to your bucket list. read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

Amy, United States

New Zealand Winter Adventure - June 2019

Winter Rimu May 2019

"I have nothing but wonderful things to say. This is exactly what we were hoping… read more

"I have nothing but wonderful things to say. This is exactly what we were hoping for. New Zealand is spectacular with wonderful sights and sounds at every turn, friendly people and outstanding pies. The trip was very well planned with outstanding accommodations in wonderful settings, great back up plans for weather related considerations and worry and hassle free days of just enjoying this corner of paradise. The guides were all super friendly, outgoing, helpful and extremely considerate! read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

Barry, United States

New Zealand Winter Adventure - October 2018

Words Can't Express the Awesomeness of this Trip!

"I joined the group in Christchurch for the 10 day option, from the get go… read more

"I joined the group in Christchurch for the 10 day option, from the get go this trip was amazing. Not only were my fellow travel companions a blast to be with, the scenery breath taking, our guides Koru and Carrie were outstanding. The level of hospitality, attention to detail, local knowledge, and friendliness was amazing. It was awe inspiring to witness how hard Koru and Carrie worked to ensure every detail of our trip went smoothly. Carrie was an outstanding cook! I expected to eat simple camp meals, but Carrie outdid herself with hot nutritious food for every meal. We also couldn't have asked for better weather, we had blue skies nearly everyday of the trip! We got an impromptu lay day during our stint in the Copland Track from the deluge of rain the area received. Despite this, Carrie and I still ventured out and got to witness the grandeur of the track and brave the less than perfect weather. Soaking in the the hot springs after getting soaked from the rain made it worth it. Whether it was a short hike, the Copland track, kayaking in Milford Sound or eating at local spots this trip exceeded all expectations. I'm already looking forward to doing another trip. read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

Stephen, United States

New Zealand Winter Adventure - October 2018

Amazing Trip

"My wife and I decided to come to New Zealand because we love hiking and… read more

"My wife and I decided to come to New Zealand because we love hiking and mountains, and it was at the top of both of our bucket lists. We were able to get the time off to do the trip right (17 days) and made it into a 5 year wedding anniversary present to ourselves. We originally planned to do everything ourselves, but quickly got overwhelmed by the amount of work that was going to take. We searched for guided trips, and were thrilled to find Active Adventures because of the overnight backpacking portions of the trip. Everything on the trip worked out great! Koru (our guide) was amazing! As a Maori, he had unparalleled knowledge of the land, customs, and beliefs of the people of New Zealand. It was very obvious that he loves his country, and loves to share it with like-minded travelers. I asked him about ten thousand questions throughout the trip, and he had an answer for pretty much every one. The hiking was amazing, the people friendly, and the time well enjoyed. My wife and I will definitely be back to Active Adventures for another trip somewhere else in the world! read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

John, United States

New Zealand Winter Adventure - September 2018

Winter Rimu

"This trip was simply amazing. Being able to explore the South Island of New Zealand… read more

"This trip was simply amazing. Being able to explore the South Island of New Zealand with someone catering to you made it that much more enjoyable. I didn’t have to plan out meals, where I should go or anything! I loved having a local guide show me New Zealand. I highly recommend Active Adventures. read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

Alyssa, United States

New Zealand Winter Adventure - September 2018

New Zealand Winter Rimu

"Our Winter Rimu trip was fantastic from beginning to end. We had a few travel… read more

"Our Winter Rimu trip was fantastic from beginning to end. We had a few travel snafus getting into New Zealand but Active Adventures was easy to reach when we needed them and once picked up, Koru immediately put us at ease and took over the hard work. Accommodations throughout were great and Koru and Lauren made some excellent food for us to enjoy throughout. We especially enjoyed the two overnight trips to Aspiring Hut and Welcome Flat Hut. We also appreciated the flexibility of both guides to do more or less activity each day depending on how everyone was feeling. Not having to worry or think about what was next on the trip helped us to relax and fully immerse ourselves in the experience. Both Koru and Lauren were extremely knowledgeable about local culture as well as the flora and fauna of New Zealand. There were very few questions we asked that they couldn't answer. Great trip! read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

Allison, United States

New Zealand Winter Adventure - August 2018

Fabulous

"I really loved the Winter Rimu. The scenery was simply breathtaking and the range of… read more

"I really loved the Winter Rimu. The scenery was simply breathtaking and the range of activities was very good. When weather intervened - inevitable in winter and on the west coast! - our guides had great alternatives up their sleeves and we were always kept up to date with plans and other ideas. They catered for the various needs and personalities in the group brilliantly and helped us bond as a cohesive team - I can’t fault their professionalism and hard work throughout. There is quite a bit of driving, which has to be the case to get to the various locations, but every day had variety and on the long driving days we still stopped and looked around places of interest and got a quick walk in where possible. The long hikes to the mountain huts were unforgettable! read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

Bob, China

New Zealand Winter Adventure - July 2018

Memory Maker

"Active Adventures' Winter Rimu is a memory maker. The views, excursions, story swapping, endless laughter,… read more

"Active Adventures' Winter Rimu is a memory maker. The views, excursions, story swapping, endless laughter, and rad people will forever be etched in my memory bank. Our sweet as guides, DK and Elder, made every day insanely fun. They are so unbelievably good at what they do and their in-depth knowledge about the local ecology, culture, and history of New Zealand is nothing short of impressive. Seeing the beauty of the South Island through their eyes put the already breathtaking views on a whole new level. DK and Elder were more than accommodating; they were genuinely kind and made everyone feel like a million bucks, even if there was a little liquid sunshine on the radar. I loved every single day on our itinerary and I loved my group. We quickly went from strangers from all different backgrounds, hometowns, and ages to a team of friends. Our long roadies were filled with music and laughter. To top it off, the food was absolutely delicious. For me, the Winter Rimu was about self-discovery, active days, spectacular sites, and constant smiles. My face still hurts from smiling so much! The memories I've made on this two week adventure are the kind that don't fade. It was just what I was looking for and then some. read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

Whitney, United States

New Zealand Winter Adventure - July 2018

Another Awesome Active New Zealand Adventure!

"My fifth 'Active Adventures' trip didn't disappoint! Great weather, great hiking, great group and of… read more

"My fifth 'Active Adventures' trip didn't disappoint! Great weather, great hiking, great group and of course, great trip leaders, DK and Elder. The "Winter Rimu" showcased the amazing New Zealand landscape in a different light from the summer "Rimu" I had previously done - with snow capped mountains everywhere, crisp clear sunny days, and a fun group to enjoy it all with. read less

4 Stars (495 reviews)

Trina, Australia

New Zealand Winter Adventure - July 2018

Sweet As!!!

"Simply put the Winter Rimu was a trip of a lifetime. The scenery was spectacular… read more

"Simply put the Winter Rimu was a trip of a lifetime. The scenery was spectacular as was the awesome group of people with amazing leaders, D.K. & Elder. read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

Matt, United States

New Zealand Winter Adventure - July 2018

The Best Introduction to the South Island You Could Wish For!

"Thank you Active Adventures - but Thank you DK and Elder for the most amazing… read more

"Thank you Active Adventures - but Thank you DK and Elder for the most amazing trip ever! They really showed their passion and love for their country and were very keen and kind to show each and every one of us their individual attention and make us feel welcome and included in the trip - Thank you again! read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

Josh, United Kingdom

Accommodation

We’ve selected the accommodation on your trip for the stunning settings, unique character and adventuresome feel. We prefer to stay in quaint, comfortable bed and breakfasts, lodges and apartments, some of which have private bathrooms and some shared bathrooms. Some places are fairly basic - like when we stay at Mt. Aspiring Hut and Welcome Flat hut on our overnight hikes - and the true Kiwi experience makes it all worthwhile.

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full.

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable.

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

T+Cs Apply.

How do rooming arrangements work?

Trip prices are based on shared arrangements (typically two guests per room), unless otherwise stated. For solo travellers, we’ll pair you with another person of the same gender to share rooms and if there’s no one suitable to share with, there’s no forced single supplement. However, if you specifically request your own rooms, you can opt to pay the single supplement. Solo travellers who book within 90 days of departure, where there are no other solo travellers willing to share, will be required to pay the single supplement.

For Family Vacation bookings, families consisting of four guests traveling with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

Is tipping expected in New Zealand?

Tipping is neither required nor routinely expected in New Zealand, but it is appropriate for very good service. In New Zealand you don't usually tip in restaurants, or if you take a taxi, or get a haircut. Many of our guests do choose to tip our guides and we recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, per guide.

Where does the trip start?

On the first morning of the trip, our two pick-up locations are Merivale Manor at 9:30am or the Christchurch airport (CHC) in front of the Help Desk (near door 7) at 10am. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at this hotel directly or any other hotel in Christchurch, though you must make your own way to one of the two pick-up points at the pre-designated times.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a drop-off at either the Christchurch Airport (CHC) in time for flights below or anywhere in Central Christchurch around 3pm.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: If you’re flying in on the first day of the trip, we recommend arriving in Christchurch before 9.30am on Monday.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Christchurch after 5pm on Sunday. If you are considering alternative flight times please check with us. International flights from Auckland airport (AKL) usually leave early evening, so if you’re heading back to North America, you’ll get home some time on Sunday, even though you left on Sunday evening! Flights back to Europe, of course, take a little longer.

How fit do I need to be?

As an Activity Level 3-4 trip, you’ll need a good level of fitness for this trip as it’s one of our more adventurous trips. Typically, hikes range between two and five hours to complete. While you don’t have to be extremely fit, you should be in the habit of doing regular aerobic exercise, ideally involving some hills, steps and carrying a backpack. Advance preparation means you’ll enjoy the active and outdoor nature of your trip even more.

Please head to our Fitness Guide for great tips on how to prepare along with a workout plan!

What accommodations do we stay at on this trip?

We’ve selected the accommodation on your trip for the stunning settings, unique character and adventuresome feel. We prefer to stay in quaint, comfortable bed and breakfasts, lodges and apartments, some of which have private bathrooms and some shared bathrooms. You may be sharing a two bedroom apartment or bathroom with other group members at some stage. Some places are fairly basic - like when we stay at Mt. Aspiring Hut and Welcome Flat hut on our overnight hikes - and the true Kiwi experience makes it all worthwhile.

If you've selected a single supplement for your trip, the overnight hike(s) are not included as no single rooms are available in the huts, and the single supplement price takes this into account.

While there are laundry facilities at most locations, they may not be convenient or there may only be one machine to service your entire group. We recommend bringing enough clothing to only have to do laundry a couple of times during your trip. The best time will be during your two night stay in Queenstown (during your free day).

How much luggage can I bring on this trip?

You’ll need one piece of luggage on your trip, a daypack and a trekking pack. Your main piece of luggage can be anything from a backpack, to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase, a good quality daypack 25-30 litres (2000 cubic inches) to use throughout the days, and a trekking pack with well-fitting shoulder and waist straps for the overnight hikes. Your pack should have a volume of ~60 litres (3500 cubic inches), large enough to fit your sleeping bag inside along with all your multi-day gear.

What will the weather be like?

Seeing you’re visiting New Zealand during the winter months, temperatures tend to be pretty cold, so be sure to pack those extra warm layers (see the gear list below). On the odd occasion, the weather can get in the way of our planned activities, so we try and be as flexible as possible and we always have great Plan B’s up our sleeve! Your guides will always inform you of any changes that need to be made during the trip - we ask for your flexibility and understanding under these circumstances as such decisions are always made with your safety in mind.

Tell me about the overnight hikes?

Mt. Aspiring National Park
Your first overnight hike, into Mt. Aspiring Hut, is designed to ease you into the overnight hikes. It’s a three hour hike
(10 kilometres / 6 miles) to Mt. Aspiring Hut, your humble home for the night. Here you’ll be treated to a candle-lit
dinner - mountain style whilst looking up at New Zealand’s second highest peak! The following day you return the way you came, with a two hour detour up the Rob Roy Valley if the weather permits, and you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the glacier.

Copland track to Welcome Flat
After a few days of creature comforts your next overnight hike is designed to be a bit more of a challenge. You’ll be
carrying a slightly bigger pack (more clothes and food) and we’ll be hiking greater distances (17 kilometres / 11 miles).
You’ve got all day to make your way up the Copland track to Welcome Flat hut - and the rewards are well worth it! Be sure to pack your bathing suit as only five minutes from the hut door there are natural hot pools – the perfect antidote for weary muscles! You’ll spend the following day hiking further up the valley, soaking in the pools or reading a book in the hut while we cook up a storm for you! On the third day we retrace our steps down the valley.

While on the overnight hikes you’ll be sleeping in Department of Conservation (DOC) owned mountain huts. These unique huts are open to the public and are warm, dry and comfortable. They’re located in very remote areas (with amazing scenery) so they don’t have private rooms, electricity, hot water, phones or flushing toilets - and the view from the outhouse is second to none! This really is New Zealand’s wildest country and because it’s not possible to book these huts, you’ll meet and share the experience with other mountain adventurers and explorers.

You’ll be carrying a large backpack of around 60 litres (3500 cubic inches) in volume - strapping things to the outside of your pack is not recommended in New Zealand. Your other gear will be stored securely for you. Your guides will give you a gear list to check over prior to both overnight hikes.

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Our Local Guides

Elder

Kim

Claire

Dan

Pim

Ruby

Holly

Ellie

Kaleb

Ken

Lauren

Jackie

Ruby

Liana

Why Travel With Us

Just-right group sizes allow you to get off the beaten path

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience with the perspective of an insider.

Award-winning guides lead the way

It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, are experts in motivation, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!

You’ll never need to sweat the details

When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. Every detail is handled; all you need to do is show up!

Enjoy freedom to push your boundaries – safely

Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted vendors and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides and our seasoned operations team at headquarters.

Decades of expertise mean you’ll experience only the best

Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries and sustained relationships for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.

"Wow Moments” take your trip from enjoyable to extraordinary

For us, the extra mile is never extra, it’s part of the way! Count on special touches throughout your trip that will amplify your experience. If we’ve done our job, they’ll have you saying “wow!”

Austin Adventures

Active Adventures

New Zealand Winter Adventure

Our Activity Levels

Experience the South Island of New Zealand with its winter coat on, dressed in silence, on our New Zealand winter adventure.

New Zealand Winter Adventure ~ Itinerary

Arrive to Christchurch, hike Mt John

Hike Aoraki Mt Cook National Park or ski/snowboard Ohau Ski Area

Mt Aspiring Hut: Hike and overnight in Mt Aspiring National Park

Hike out of Mt Aspiring National Park and bike Wanaka

Free day in Queenstown

Hike Kepler Track and explore Te Anau glow worm caves

Cruise on Milford Sound, explore Fiordland National Park

Scenic journey to the West Coast

Start your multi-day hike to Copland Valley hot pools on the West Coast

Multi-day hike continued: Hike up the Copland Valley

Final day of the multi-day hike, head to Franz Josef township

Kayak Okarito Lagoon, hike near Franz Josef Glacier

Hike Punakaiki rainforest and beaches

Depart for home

Trip Dates

New Zealand Winter Adventure Departure Dates

Interactive Trip Map: Click on the map icons to read details for each day

Photos From the New Zealand Winter Adventure

What Our Guests Say About the Trip

Exciting itinerary

May 31 2021 Winter Rimu

A totally rearranged trip

Totally Awesome

Great introduction to the South Island

New Zealand in the Winter

Winter Rimu May 2019

Words Can't Express the Awesomeness of this Trip!

Amazing Trip

Winter Rimu

New Zealand Winter Rimu

Fabulous

Memory Maker

Another Awesome Active New Zealand Adventure!

Sweet As!!!

The Best Introduction to the South Island You Could Wish For!

Accommodation

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full.

Useful Info

How do rooming arrangements work?

Is tipping expected in New Zealand?

Where does the trip start?

Where does the trip end?

What flights would you recommend?

How fit do I need to be?

What accommodations do we stay at on this trip?

How much luggage can I bring on this trip?

What will the weather be like?

Tell me about the overnight hikes?

Our Local Guides

Elder

Kim

Claire

Dan

Pim

Ruby

Holly

Ellie

Kaleb

Ken

Lauren

Jackie

Ruby

Liana

Why Travel With Us

Just-right group sizes allow you to get off the beaten path

Award-winning guides lead the way

You’ll never need to sweat the details

Enjoy freedom to push your boundaries – safely

Decades of expertise mean you’ll experience only the best

"Wow Moments” take your trip from enjoyable to extraordinary

Trip Inquiry

Departure date

Thanks For Your Enquiry!

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