A winding road leads through grassy fields towards mountains at sunset, with a lake on the right and a colorful sky overhead.

New Zealand: Hike, Cycle, and Paddle South Island

Australia & Pacific

12 Days

From $9,695

Book Now

Sample Itinerary

New Zealand: Hike, Cycle, and Paddle South Island

Australia & Pacific

12 Days

From $9,695

Book Now

Sample Itinerary

Call us with questions

1.800.804.8686

Overview

Experience the breathtaking South Island of New Zealand, renowned for its rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests. Home to Aoraki/Mount Cook, stunning glaciers like Franz Josef and Fox, and the majestic Milford Sound — often called the eighth Wonder of the World — this region promises adventure and beauty. Meet your guide and fellow adventurers as you embark on this unforgettable journey, encouraging one another to step beyond comfort zones. Explore the Hollyford Track along the Hollyford River, hike through the stunning Matukituki Valley towards the Rob Roy Glacier, and navigate glacial lakes dotted with icebergs. E-bike through coastal landscapes in Abel Tasman National Park, paddle a traditional waka, and hike the famous Coastal Track. Your adventure culminates in Nelson, where a special farewell dinner celebrates the new friendships forged and the extraordinary experiences shared in this mesmerizing land.

Main Attractions

Majestic Hikes

Experience unforgettable hikes and explore Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Aspiring National Park, Fiorland National Park and the Hollyford Valley for incredible views!

Boat and Paddle

Jet Boat on the Hollyford River, Boat Cruise through Tasman Valley, Ferry to Rabbit Island, and paddle a Waka in Abel Tasman National Park.

Bike the Taste Trail

Cycle the scenic Great Taste Trail on e-bikes, sampling local wines along the way. Then, learn harakeke weaving skills from local women.

Map of New Zealand highlighting locations such as Mount Cook, Queenstown, Lake Tekapo, and Milford Sound. Airplane icons indicate flight paths, with insets of North and South Islands.

Itinerary

Aerial view of a town by a lake, with mountains in the background and a forested area in the foreground, under a partly cloudy sky.

Arrival in Queenstown

Arrive in Queenstown by 4 PM and settle into Scenic Suites Queenstown. After checking in and relaxing, gather with your fellow travelers for a lively welcome dinner. Enjoy delicious food and drinks while sharing stories about your excitement for exploring New Zealand. This evening marks the beginning of your adventure, where you’ll bond with other women ready to embrace the natural beauty and cultural richness that lies ahead.

Meals dinner

A group of people stand on a grassy hillside with mountains in the background, raising their hands and smiling at the camera.

Journey to Milford

Depart early for a scenic four-hour drive to Milford Sound. Here, part ways temporarily with your lead guide and and meet your guide for the Hollyford Track and board a helicopter for a breathtaking flight over the fjord. After landing at Martins Bay, enjoy a delicious lunch in a safari-style tent, then embark on a walk through a lush coastal forest alive with bird song. Look out for rare wildlife, including the Fiordland crested penguin, and return via jet boat for a delightful three-course dinner while reflecting on an incredible day. Today’s Hike: 4 miles, 2-3 hours.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner

A person with a red backpack stands on a bridge, looking at a rushing river surrounded by lush green forest.

Hollyford Valley Adventure

Wake up to the beautiful dawn chorus of native birds before enjoying a hearty breakfast. Then, board a jet boat for a captivating ride up Lake McKerrow to the Hollyford River, where the mountains rise dramatically. Start your 11-mile hike through the Hollyford Valley, carrying your main pack as you retrace the steps of early Māori explorers. Marvel at the native beech forest and tumbling waterfalls while learning about the rich ecology of the area. After a day filled with breathtaking scenery and historical insights, enjoy a hearty dinner at your accommodation in Te Anau. Today’s Hike: 11 miles, 6-8 hours, elevation 143 m/470 feet.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner

A group of people posing outdoors on a grassy hill with a scenic view of water and mountains in the background, under a cloudy sky.

Hiking in Matukituki Valley

Depart Te Anau for a scenic three-hour drive to Wanaka, where you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake. In the afternoon, hike the stunning Matukituki Valley (4.5 miles, 3 hours, 320 m/1,049 ft elevation), winding through pristine beech forests with views of Lake Wānaka, the Southern Alps, and Mount Aspiring/Tititea. Choose from several hiking options, including the easy Diamond Lake Circuit or the more challenging Rocky Mountain Summit Track with panoramic alpine views. After a day of exploration, enjoy dinner on your own in Wanaka.

Meals breakfast, lunch

A wooden walkway winds through lush green shrubs leading to snow-capped mountains under a clear sky.

Hike to View Aoraki/Mount Cook

Starting at 9 am, drive through the Lindis Valley and arrive at the breathtaking region of Aoraki/Mt Cook. Travel up the Tasman Valley towards the Tasman Glacier, the longest glacier in New Zealand. In the afternoon, hike the Hooker Valley Track to enjoy views of the Mueller and Hooker Glacier terminal lakes as well as the towering south face of Aoraki/Mt Cook. Todays hike will be 6.2 miles, 3-4 hours, elevation 115 m/377 ft.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner

A person stands on a bridge overlooking a rocky river with mountains in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

Sealy Tarns Hike

Hike up to Sealy Tarns and enjoy the awe-inspiring views of Mt. Sefton, Mueller Glacier and the Hooker Valley to Aoraki/Mt Cook. Spend the day exploring the charming alpine village and expand your knowledge of the national park’s wonders by visiting the world-class visitor center. Todays hike will be 3-5 miles, 4-6 hours. Elevation of Sealy Tarns: 516 m/1,692 ft,
and Mueller Ridge: 946 m/3,100 ft, walking poles recommended.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner

A person stands with arms outstretched in a field of purple flowers by a lake, with snow-capped mountains in the background.

Boat Cruise in Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park and Tekapo

Join your local Glacier Guides for a scenic boat trip up the Tasman Valley toward New Zealand’s longest glacier. Walk through glacial moraine, then cruise among icebergs on the ever-growing terminal lake. After lunch with your lead guide, depart Aoraki/Mt Cook and journey through the sweeping McKenzie Basin to Lake Tekapo. Stroll the lakeshore or make a quick hike up Mt John. End the day in Methven—a ski town turned rural retreat—for dinner and a restful night.
Today’s Hike: 1.2 miles, 1 hour, flat terrain.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner

Rocky landscape with scattered boulders on grassy terrain, set against distant snow-capped mountains under a clear blue sky.

Castle Hill and West Coast

Embark on a 1.5-hour drive to the enchanting limestone outcrops at Kura Tawhiti (Castle Hill). This area, significant for early Māori, was dubbed the “Spiritual Centre of the Universe” by the Dalai Lama. Explore the captivating rock formations before continuing through Arthurs Pass, where you can hike to Punchbowl Falls or take the Centennial Hike if time allows. Arriving on the West Coast, hike the Inland Pack Track from the Punakaiki River to Pororari, surrounded by deep limestone canyons and lush Nikau Palms. Today’s Hike: 7 miles, 3-4 hours, elevation 239 m/960 feet.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner

Rock formations at Pancake Rocks, New Zealand, with the ocean and coastline in the background at sunset.

Pancake Rocks to Nelson

Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the world-famous Pancake Rocks, marveling at their unique geological formations. The paths lead you through stunning landscapes, showcasing nature’s artistry. Afterward, drive to Murchison for a guided hike through lush forests adorned with majestic tree ferns, where you’ll witness natural flames that have burned since the 1920s. Access this hidden gem through a privately owned deer farm, offering a unique perspective on New Zealand’s natural wonders. Complete your journey to Nelson, where you’ll enjoy dinner as a group, reflecting on the amazing experiences of the past days. Today’s Hike: 2 miles, 3 hours.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner

Five wine glasses on a table with a vineyard background, paired with a wooden board of appetizers, including spring rolls, sliced meat, and crispy bites.

E-Biking in Abel Tasman National Park

After breakfast, take a short drive to Moutere, where your e-bike adventure on the Great Taste Trail begins. Ride through a patchwork of rural and coastal landscapes, passing sheep and cattle farms while soaking in spectacular views of the coastline. A short ferry ride takes you to Rabbit Island, where the trail continues. Visit Seifried Winery for a tasting of local wines before being driven back to your accommodation in Nelson with dinner on your own. Today’s Cycling: 16 miles, 4 hours.

Meals breakfast

A longtail boat is anchored on a sandy beach. Wooden paddles are laid out in a circular pattern in the sand. Calm sea and islands are visible in the background.

Hiking and Paddling in Abel Tasman National Park

Experience the beauty of Abel Tasman National Park by paddling a waka (double-hulled canoe) at sunrise. After a traditional karakia (blessing), learn about waka etiquette before embarking on your journey with local hosts. Enjoy breakfast along the way and participate in traditional harakeke weaving with local women. After this enriching experience, take a water taxi further into the park for a scenic hike along the famous Abel Tasman Coastal Track from Bark Bay to the Falls River suspension bridge. Enjoy time for a swim before returning to Kaiteriteri and celebrating with a farewell dinner in Nelson. Today’s Hike: 5 miles, 2-3 hours, elevation 200 m/650 ft.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner

A serene lake landscape with vibrant pink and purple lupines in the foreground, mountains in the background, and a pastel sunset sky above.

Depart Nelson

On your final day, enjoy breakfast with your newfound friends before preparing for departure. There will be a group transfer to Nelson Airport, allowing you to bid farewell to your adventure companions. You can book your return flight any time after 12 PM, concluding your unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes and rich culture of New Zealand. Take home cherished memories and new friendships as you head back to your daily life.

Meals breakfast

Colorful lupines bloom in the foreground with a serene lake and distant mountains under a pastel sky at sunset.

Accommodations

Please note that all amenities were current when written and are subject to change at any time.

Scenic Suites Queenstown

Nestled in one of Queenstown’s most desirable locations, Scenic Suites Queenstown, offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience. Perched on an elevated position, the hotel boasts stunning views of the Southern Alps and the shimmering waters of Lake Wakatipu, providing a picturesque backdrop for your stay. Recently refurbished, this accommodation combines modern elegance with homely comfort.

Amenities include: complimentary toiletries, bathrobes, hair dryer, refrigerator, coffee / tea maker, safe, flatscreen cable / satellite TV, Wi-Fi, air conditioning

A rustic lodge with a green corrugated roof and large windows is nestled in a wooded area at night. A gravel path leads to the entrance. A sign near the path reads "Cemetery Viewers.

Martins Bay Lodge

Located on the lowland flats near the mouth of the Hollyford River, this unique wilderness lodge is well-appointed with dining and lounge areas, open fires, and drying rooms. The lodge runs on a battery bank-powered electricity system and conserves energy by turning off some electrical facilities overnight. However, lighting is available throughout the night, and 24-hour power is available in the lounge area. For this trip, only double occupancy is available at this property.

AMENITIES: lodge bedrooms are all ensuite with bedding, towels, hot water bottles, complimentary toiletries and hair dryer. There is no cell phone service at this lodge and limited access to internet.

A lush green lawn with blooming cherry blossoms in the foreground, a modern building on the right, and snow-capped mountains under a blue sky in the background.

Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas

Surrounded by extensive, colorful gardens and overlooking spectacular Lake Te Anau and the Fiordland ranges, this Hotel and Villa accommodation sets the tone for your stay in one of the world’s most breathtaking regions.

AMENITIES: complimentary toiletries, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi

Edgewater Hotel

Escape the everyday and unwind at Edgewater, a Qualmark Gold-graded resort on the shores of Lake Wānaka. Just a 5-minute walk from the Wānaka Tree and 10 minutes from the town center, it’s the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, bathrobes, hari dryer, safe, flatscreen cable/satellite TV, Wi-Fi

Mount Cook Lodge

A perfect gateway to your Aoraki/Mount Cook adventure, the Mount Cook Lodge blends the old with the new through stylish new rooms and stunning mountain views.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, kitchenette, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi

A wooden building with a stone chimney and entrance labeled "Skyline." Flanked by stone walls and surrounded by gravel and decking.

Ski Time Resort

A comfortable lodge featuring a lounge, terrace, and garden.

AMENITIES: complimentary toiletries, Wi-Fi

A wooden building with large windows sits surrounded by lush greenery, near a parking area, with a background of forested hills in the evening light.

Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

A breath-taking oceanfront sanctuary featuring modern and comfortable rooms, ocean views, and sounds of the Tasman Sea.

AMENITIES: complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, coffee / tea maker, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi

A modern hotel complex is nestled among lush green hills and mountains under a partly cloudy blue sky.

Tides Hotel

Located just a few minutes’ walk from Nelson’s main shopping area, Tides Hotel is a stylish and contemporary hotel.

AMENITIES: complimentary toiletries, coffee / tea maker, bottled water, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi

What People Are Saying

I thoroughly enjoyed my New Zealand trip with AdventureWomen. It went beyond my expectations, and my expectations were high!

What People Are Saying

This trip was a dream come true! From the breathtaking hikes to paddling a waka at sunrise, every moment was filled with awe and adventure. The camaraderie with fellow women made it even more special. Highly recommend!

What People Are Saying

An unforgettable journey through New Zealand’s stunning landscapes! The mix of cultural experiences, delicious local food, and breathtaking scenery left me inspired. I loved every minute and made lasting friendships!

Dates & Pricing

Start Date	End Date	Availability	Pricing	Booking Link
Feb 13, 2026	Feb 24, 2026	Sold Out	$9,695*	Call for Availability

*Additional Pricing Information: 2026 Optional Single Accommodation: $3,400

Arrival: Arrive in Queenstown, New Zealand (ZQN) on Day 1 by 4:00 PM.

Departure: Depart from Nelson, New Zealand (NSN) on Day 12 after 12:00 PM.

What's Included

Accommodations as per itinerary based on double occupancy
All meals as listed in the itinerary
All ground transportation
Airport transfer on scheduled departure day
Guided sightseeing and activities as indicated in the itinerary
Tea, coffee, juice, and soda water at breakfast and lunch
Entrance fees for sites listed in the itinerary
Drinking water available in large jugs to refill personal bottles
Snacks in vehicles
Gratuities for hotel staff, luggage porters, and waitstaff

What's Not Included

International airfare to and from New Zealand
Airport transfer on arrival day
Optional activities
Meals not specified in the itinerary
Soft drinks, tea, and coffee at dinner
Alcoholic beverages (unless otherwise specified)
Fees for passport, visas, immunizations, or travel insurance
Cost of hospitalization or evacuation
Items of a personal nature
Gratuities for guides

FAQs

Absolutely! You belong here. AdventureWomen welcomes all women and individuals who identify as part of the women’s community. We celebrate all races, backgrounds, orientations, abilities, and ages. Our adventures reflect the vibrant diversity of our travelers.

You can process your registration on our online booking system or over the phone. Most deposits are $800. In many cases, and unless otherwise indicated, your deposit is transferable if you notify us in writing 120 before your trip departs.

Yes, we understand that planning your dream adventure can be a significant investment. That’s why we offer flexible payment plans to make your travel experience more accessible. For more details on our payment plans, please give us a call at 800.804.8686 or email us at [email protected]. We are happy to answer your questions and set up a plan that works for you.

Be sure to check the ‘What’s Included’ section of the trip you are interested in. Once you get to the departure city and meet the group, we often include most meals, all accommodations, all activities (although there might be an optional activity at an additional cost), transportation while on the adventure, qualified local guide(s) and some trips also include an AdventureWomen Ambassador. Our trips do not include airfare to/from the arrival and departure cities. Internal flights are included.

Absolutely! In fact, we encourage it! Many of the women who travel with AdventureWomen come solo. For those that do not choose a single supplement, we pair you with a roommate. Usually, when we change accommodations on a trip, we will change roommates if we can, so you get a chance to know others in our group. A limited number of single supplements may be available for an additional charge.

That depends entirely on the trip! AdventureWomen adventure travel trips are rated according to the physical fitness level demanded by the included activities.

Level One: Easy Pace Our Easy Pace trips are thoughtfully designed for women who enjoy gentle activity, cultural immersion, and plenty of time to savor the scenery. They feature light walking, easy terrain like cobblestone streets or flat nature trails, and optional activities such as city tours, wildlife safaris, and scenic boat rides. This level offers a relaxed pace with flexible itineraries and minimal physical exertion.
Level Two: Moderate For women who enjoy staying active, balanced with some downtime, our Moderate trips offer a blend of movement and relaxation. Activities may include walking on gently rolling trails, with occasional uneven terrain like forest paths or shallow creek crossings. With activities like beginner kayaking or short e-bike excursions, this level is perfect for those eager to explore while trying something new.
Level Three: Dynamic Designed for adventurous women ready for a challenge, our Dynamic trips feature regular activity on varied terrain with moderate elevation gains. Expect natural obstacles such as rocky paths and shallow creek crossings. From glacier walks and whitewater rafting to ziplining and kayaking in calm to lightly-choppy waters, this level is perfect for those with hiking and outdoor experience and a sense of adventure.
Level Four: High Energy Our High Energy adventures are designed for women who crave being on the go! You should be prepared for full days of hiking across rugged, moderate-altitude terrain. With some steeper inclines and rocky paths, these trips often feature back-to-back adrenaline-fueled activities like canyoneering, multi-day treks, and Class IV whitewater rafting—perfect for experienced adventurers and hikers with good stamina and a passion for pushing their limits.
Level Five: Challenging Our Challenging trips are crafted for seasoned adventurers ready to take on remote, high-altitude terrain, and full-day treks. These trips are demanding yet deeply rewarding and designed for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. You should be in excellent physical condition and be able to hike up to 14 miles per day with steep ascents, rugged trails, and elevations reaching 19,500 feet. These are strenuous trips that require endurance and a commitment to training before departure.