A trip that's '100% Pure New Zealand' - spectacular scenery, clear light and fresh air, and some of the world's greatest trekking

Where else can you trek through Jurassic-like rainforest, kayak with fur seals, hike along a glacier, stroll up volcanic peaks and still enjoy fish and chips on the beach afterwards? It's this mix which makes New Zealand so special - it's majestic but down to earth, otherworldly yet reassuringly familiar. Our varied trek takes us to both islands, across the north's volcanic landscapes and down to the glaciated south with its spectacular coastline and Alpine vistas. Although we include the well-known trekking areas, we also get off the beaten track where we can, giving us the best of both worlds. New Zealand is simply outstanding - we're sure you will agree.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Auckland; optional relaxing afternoon city tour. 2 Travel to Rotorua; visit thermal areas. 3 Walk through the Jurassic-like Whirinaki Rainforest. 4 South to Tongariro, New Zealand's first national park. Trek east to west through park. 5 Trek through the setting for many battle scenes from 'The Lord of the Rings'. 6 To Wellington; Free time in New Zealand's capital city. 7 Short flight to Picton. To Abel Tasman; water taxi to national park campsite. 8 Optional walk along coastal path, or sea-kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park; to the Buller Gorge. 9 To Paparoa N.P.; hike up Fox River to the Ballroom Overhang. 10 Hike out of canyon. Drive to Punakaiki, Pancake Rocks, Hokitika and Fox Glacier. 11 Optional glacier hike; to Makarora. 12 Stunning heli-flight around Mt Aspiring National Park; land in remote Siberia Valley; hike up valley to a glacial lake. 13 Hike above the Siberia River; jetboat trip down Wilkin River. Transfer to Queenstown. 14 Free day in Queenstown. 15 To Fiordland N.P. with its huge glacial lakes and dramatic inland coastline; hike to Key Summit on the renowned Routeburn track; overnight in historic cabins. 16 Drive to Milford Sound; optional kayak into the Fiord with its cascading waterfalls and where penguins and fur seals often play; cruise available for non-kayakers; to Queenstown. 17 Drive through the majestic high sheep station country of Central Otago; through Mackenzie Country to Aoraki/Mt Cook; hike up Mueller Ridge. 18 Continue north to Mt Sommers. Afternoon hike to mountain hut. 19 Morning hike back to vehicle. Transfer across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. 20 End Christchurch.

Mode of travel: 12 days walking (3-5 hours per day average, one 5-6 hour walk) including 7 days light backpacking. 5 overnight trips staying in huts/camps. Optional kayaking and glacier walk. Low altitude throughout.
Group size: Min. 5, max. 11, plus leader and appropriate local staff.
Accommodation: 3 nights hotels, 8 nights lodges, 5 nights huts/camping, 3 nights cabins.
Food: 17 breakfasts, 17 lunches and 7 dinners included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $680.00
Trip Reference: TLZ
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.