Length 10 days

Price NZ$1500

NZ$1540 from 1 October 2010

GST (Goods and Services Tax) increases from 12.5% to 15% on 1st October 2010. This tour will increase in price to NZ$1540. Pay before 30th September 2010 and receive the lower price, regardless of the date of travel.

Grade E - hard, 3 multi-day hikes
Extras - NZ$30/day kitty (food & accommodation)
Extras optional - Whale watching cruise (NZ$145), kayaking (NZ$129)
Start - Christchurch Visitor Centre, Cathedral Square West @ 8:00am
Finish - Christchurch 7:00pm (approx.)

Eastern Epic Dossier

This trip dossier contains all the information you require for booking this trip. Please print off and read carefully before booking.

Maximum 9 people.

Itinerary

Hike through alpine landscapes, exploring rugged slopes, tussocky basins and ancient beech forest. Combine three multi-day walks with kayaking, whale watching and hot springs. Circle the north and east of the South Island, visiting classic New Zealand mountain huts, viewing spectacular wildlife displays and reaching awe-inspiring summits.

Day 1 Thursday Tour begins in Christchurch – 10km/6 hours hiking

We meet at Christchurch Visitors Centre and after a briefing by your guide we drive north to the wild and rocky Kaikoura coast. After a picnic lunch we pack up for an overnight hike and walk to Mount Fyffe Hut in the Seaward Kaikoura Range. These spectacular mountains rise steeply from sea level providing a stunning backdrop to coastal views. Spend the evening getting to know fellow travellers while enjoying the panoramic views.

Day 2 Friday Kaikoura – 10km/4 hours hiking

Up early to climb to the summit of Mount Fyffe (1765m) and watch the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean. Superb views of the Kaikoura Peninsula below and the coastline stretching northwards. We descend through a rocky arid alpine environment returning to Mount Fyffe Hut, then follow a track down the ridgeline to the car park. From here we head out to the coast. This area is rich in marine wildlife due to the upwelling of nutrients from deep underwater canyons. Sperm whales live here feeding on the giant squid that inhabit the Hikurangi trench. Kaikoura was an important food gathering area for the Maori – the name means ‘meal of crayfish’. A whale watching boat trip (optional extra) provides a thrilling opportunity to see whales, dolphins and seals in their natural environment. We drive north up the coast to our coastal campsite at Marfells Beach.

Day 3 Saturday Nelson Lakes National Park – 16km/4 hours hiking

Start a three day hike into Nelson Lakes National Park. Hike around the shores of Lake Rotoiti through beautiful beech forest, the forest floor carpeted with bright green mosses. Continue up the Travers Valley before branching off up Hukere Stream. Slowly we make our way higher up this valley towards Mount Angelus. We camp in a clearing beside the stream, with views of high mountains all around.

Day 4 Sunday Nelson Lakes National Park – 9km/5 hours hiking

We start the day with a steep but extremely rewarding climb following the cascading Hukere Stream up into the Angelus Basin. Time to relax and have a cup of tea when we reach the hut, which is perched on a tussock saddle overlooking Lake Angelus. In the afternoon we scramble up to the top of Mount Angelus, 2077m (optional). Because this is such a special place we allow lots of time for just sitting back and enjoying the jaw dropping scenery. Tonight we either stay in the hut, or camp by the lake.

Day 5 Monday Nelson Lakes National Park – 12km/4 hours hiking

Follow a rocky alpine ridge back out to the vehicle. Incredible views down to Lakes Rotoiti and Rotoroa. We traverse tussock slopes and shattered rock, while looking out for alpine plants such as the bizarre vegetable sheep. Below us emerald tarns sparkle in alpine basins. When we reach the vehicle there is time for a swim and some lunch before driving through to Marahau, to our peaceful campsite at the entrance to Abel Tasman National Park.

Day 6 Tuesday Abel Tasman National Park – 10km/6 hours kayaking

Enjoy a whole day sea kayaking (optional extra). A great way to explore the golden sand beaches, islands and sea caves of the park. Time to swim and lay back in the sun. If the conditions are right we may join the kayaks together and sail home on the gentle sea breeze. For those not kayaking, there is the opportunity to go for a walk on the coastal track and make the most of the excellent water taxi service, which can drop you off at a number of idyllic bays. In the late afternoon we drive to Tapawera, where we stay in a “classic kiwi camping ground” – there is even a hot tub to revive those aching muscles!

Day 7 Wednesday Kahurangi National Park – 8km/6 hours hiking

Today we pack up for a three day hike in New Zealand’s second largest national park, Kahurangi. After a steep climb through beech forest we descend into Ghost Valley, passing the remains of an historic slab-construction prospectors hut. The track then follows Blue Creek up through hardy Dracophyllum forest in the alpine shrub zone to Granity Pass where we either stay in a mountain hut or set up camp nearby.

Day 8 Thursday Kahurangi National Park – 10km/6 hours hiking

Today we explore the glaciated karst landscape of Mount Owen where scenes from Lord of the Rings were filmed. The geology here is fascinating – the massif is limestone metamorphosed into marble and is riddled with caves (where dwarfs may dwell), the longest being Bulmer with 36km of passages. We cross gentle tussock slopes (watching carefully for the elusive elves and hobbits) to the sculptured marble maze of Mount Owen where careful route finding takes us to the summit (1875m). We are rewarded with panoramic views across the mountains of Kahurangi and Nelson Lakes. Return to hut/campsite, and enjoy another night in this incredible place.

Day 9 Friday Kahurangi National Park – 8km/5 hours hiking

Take a leisurely descent down through the beech forest to the vehicle. Take a refreshing swim in the river before driving through to the Buller Gorge. We spend the night in a character cottage, and enjoy a home cooked meal made from organic produce by our host. This is a great place to spend the last night of the trip, you will love the funky outdoor shower, which looks out over the confluence of the Buller and Maruia Rivers.

Day 10 Saturday Tour ends in Christchurch – 4km/2 hours hiking

After a relaxing morning at the cottage and a quick vehicle and gear clean up we drive over the scenic Lewis Pass and back to Christchurch. We stop on the way for a short hike and a soak in the Maruia hotpools. Driving on, we return to Christchurch around 7:00pm.

Notes

People heading north after the trip - we can drop you off in Murchison to meet a Nelson bound bus at 12:45pm (Southern Link), 5:00pm (Atomic) or 5:50pm (Intercity). Please advise guide on day 1 if this is required. Guide can arrange the booking. Bus fare not included in price.

Additional costs

During winter (April-September) or on wet weather summer trips you may need to budget an extra NZ$10/day as we use alternative accommodation more often.
Kitty fund and optional activities must be paid for during the trip.

Hiking and fitness – E

Similar conditions to D, but longer days, 8-9 hours.
Altitude gains of 900 to 1000m.
Some exposure to heights.
Pack weights of 12-15kgs.
Hiking experience necessary.
High level of fitness required.

What to take

New Zealand's weather is changeable and we can experience extremely cold weather at any time of year, especially in the mountains. Our huts/camps vary in altitude from sea level to over 1000m. It is necessary to have warm clothing. Jeans are not suitable for hiking. See the Recommended gear list page for further information on each essential item we recommend you bring.

Essential items

• hiking boots (not shoes)
• backpack (at least 60 litres capacity)
• 3-season sleeping bag
• waterproof raincoat (goretex or similar)
• warm fleece/wool jersey (not cotton)
• shorts for hiking
• polypro/thermal underwear – top and long-johns
• 3 pairs of socks (they get wet)
• warm hat or balaclava
• sunscreen and sunglasses
• drink bottle (1 litre)
• spare shoes or sandals
• flashlight/headlamp
• insect repellent (sandflies like foreign blood)
• spare set of clothes

Optional items

Gaiters, binoculars, gloves/mittens, earplugs, walking poles and camera.

We supply

Therm-a-rest sleeping mat (self-inflating foam mat), tents, cooking equipment, plates/cutlery, backpack liner (plastic bag), first aid kit, safety equipment and maps.

Luggage

We allow space for 120 litres per person (one large pack plus one day pack). You may be required to forward excess luggage if you exceed this. If you can’t easily carry all your gear without falling over, then you have too much! Any gear you do not need while hiking can be locked in the vehicle. We do not accept any responsibility for security of your luggage. We highly recommend travel insurance.

Equipment hire

We have high-quality hiking equipment that you can hire for our trips. Please arrange hire gear when you book. Requests for hire equipment must be made at least 5 days before the departure date. Cancellation of gear hire must also occur at least 5 days in advance or no refund will be given.

Transport

We travel in a 10- or 12-seat minibus, towing a trailer with camp equipment and luggage. We use a mix of 2-Wheel-Drive and 4-Wheel-Drive vehicles depending on the trip and the time of year. All vehicles have a stereo and we carry a range of natural history reference books. We average 2-3 hours driving per day (we drive – you get to watch the amazing New Zealand scenery slip by while listening to your favourite tunes). We travel on a range of roads, from sealed highways to dusty, windy, bouncy tracks. We can stop whenever you want to take photos or check out the strange locals! We try not to drive too much, but occasionally we might do a 5-hour drive.

Food

All food is run on a kitty system and everyone chips in to prepare and cook meals. Each person’s contribution is about NZ$10 per day. Although we have an excellent menu system – barbecues, salads, pancakes, and pasta – it frequently gets hijacked by the inspired cook. We always carry lots of hiking food – chocolate, peanuts, raisins and biscuits. The vehicles carry a full range of cooking equipment, including gas burners, woks, frying pans, and billies. When we go on overnight hikes, we carry small (but impressive) liquid fuel stoves. We realise cooking is a creative art and look forward to your input. Vegetarian meals are no problem – just advise us when you book.

Accommodation

The trip uses a range of accommodation from camping and backcountry huts to cribs (summer house), hostels, and cabins. We generally camp if the weather is fine so you get to enjoy the outdoors more and it costs you less. In less pleasant weather, your guide will arrange accommodation for the group. Note that the accommodation and food costs are not included in the price of this trip.

Camping

We camp as much as we can in a range of locations, under natural rock overhangs, on the beach, at Department of Conservation campsites, and in established campgrounds with showers. We provide 2-person tents for you to sleep in and a 3/4 length thermarest-style (self-inflating) hiking mat. We frequently have a small campfire.

Huts

We make use of excellent Department of Conservation huts. They are equipped with mattresses, running water, and an outside toilet. Cooking is done on a portable stove. We do not have sole rights to huts and so must share with other hikers.

Cabins/cribs

When the weather is bad we will seek out alternative accommodation. This can be anything that is available, from a private crib (summer house) to a cabin at a campground. You must be prepared to go for 3 days (sometimes more) without a hot shower. There is always a river or lake for you to wash in. Some of our campsites/huts have saunas or natural hot pools!

Questions

Do we all get involved with camp duties?

Everyone is fully involved with the running of the trip, from collecting firewood, to setting up camp, and cooking meals. You are expected to do your share of work. If you are not a great cook, don’t worry; your guide and other people in the group will help you. People often say that this is a great aspect of our trips that everyone is working together. Some of our most hilarious moments happen when people get tangled dismantling a tent on a windy day.

Does it matter if I am travelling alone?

Most of the people on our trips are travelling alone. The trips are an excellent way to meet and hang out with a fine bunch of people. There is time to chill out and take in the splendour too when you feel like a bit of solitude.

Can I do more than one trip?

Yes. More and more people are connecting trips to cover the whole of New Zealand. We really are the hassle-free way to experience New Zealand’s best adventures.

I am travelling and have a lot of stuff that I will not need on the trip – what should I do with it?

You can store it at your accommodation if you plan on returning to the area. Or, you can travel with it on the trip. We allow a maximum space of 120 litres per person (1 large pack plus a day pack). Depending on how full the trip is, we may require you to forward excess luggage if you exceed this. During overnight hikes everything is locked securely in the vehicle.

What do I do with my valuables (passport, airline tickets, money) while we are hiking?

Keep them with you in your hiking pack. We pack all those things in plastic bags to keep them dry and keep them with us while we are hiking.

Can I be picked up at my hostel or accommodation?

No, sorry. We try to leave the city early so we can spend more time in the wilderness. Taxiing around Auckland drives everyone nuts and it’s best to start in a good mood. We meet at a central location – the local Visitor Information Centre – so it doesn’t cost you much to get there in a taxi, shuttle, bus, or by walking!

I'm a vegetarian – is that a problem?

Not at all. We usually have vegetarians in the group. All the guides are familiar with vegetarian cooking. We also have lots of excellent vegetarian recipes. Sometimes the whole group will cook vegetarian or we may cook a separate vegetarian meal. The hangi (Maori earth oven) meal is always a mixture of vegetarian and meat foods.

What is the weather going to be like?

New Zealand’s weather is very changeable so you need to be prepared for any eventuality. Some days we can be broiling in 30 degrees and the next day we could be freezing in a cool southerly from the sub-Antarctic. It is best to be prepared for the worst conditions we are likely to expect – see our Weather page for links to New Zealand weather sites. We may get some rain on the trip so a good waterproof raincoat is important. It’s warmer up north so thermal underwear and warm hats become an option rather than a necessity.

Who is the guide for my trip?

Check out the Guides page – you will have one of them! All the guides are carefully selected and trained. They are fun people with at least a decade of outdoor experience and mountain first aid certification, along with a natural history qualification. We plan the guide roster well in advance but there are occasionally last-minute changes to who is guiding what particular departure.

Which is the best trip to go on?

It depends on what you want, how much time you have, and where you want to go. You can do anything from our 6 day Far North beach trip to a combination of trips for 40 or more days! The Volcanoes and Rainforest trip has amazing volcanic scenery, the West Coast Wilderness has grand mountains and rainforests, and the Secret South has a lot of travel above the bushline and wildlife (dolphins, penguins, sea lions, and seals).

Will I be fit enough?

Our trips are graded on a scale from A to E. Read the Fitness page and choose a trip to suit you. If you are concerned about your fitness, get out on some day hikes in the weeks prior to your trip departure.

Who is in my group?

A maximum of 11 people, with a range of ages, nationalities, and work backgrounds. Most people are between 20 and 40, although we have had people from 17 to 72. On average, half are women and half are men. Everyone shares an enthusiasm for outdoor adventure and an appreciation of nature.

How far in advance do I need to book?

The sooner the better for trips departing in the peak season (November-April). We get many advance bookings so it is important to book early to avoid disappointment.

Do I really need boots and will they get wet?

Yes and yes! Good hiking boots are essential to protect your feet and provide ankle support. We hike through rough terrain, sometimes off-track. We frequently have to cross rivers with our boots on – this protects our feet from getting cut on sharp rocks. If we had to take our boots off every time we crossed a river we’d take forever to get anywhere. One traveller who recently completed a trip said: “my most favourite part of the trip was the discovery that walking in soggy boots and socks after crossing rivers is quite comfortable”.

What type of gear should I buy?

If you intend to do a lot of hiking then it is worth buying quality equipment – good leather hiking boots and hiking clothing. If you think you might not do any more hiking after the trip then you could buy cheaper alternatives. Just remember that it won’t last as long or do the job as well. See our Recommended gear list for advice on the items you need to bring.

Will I be able to do laundry during my trip?

Yes, at least once, usually halfway through the trip. There is always the opportunity to hand-wash those essential items. We recommend bringing items that are quick drying and plenty of spare pairs of socks and underwear, since you will most likely have to line-dry clothing.

Can I charge my camera / phone / laptop etc while on the trip?

About two or three times per trip we stay at places that have electricity so you will be able to recharge batteries. If you have a vehicle adaptor, bring it along as there may be an opportunity to charge items while we are driving.

How much cash will I need during the trip?

Every 3 or 4 days we pass through a town so you can run off to the bank if you need to. Usually the person in charge of the kitty gets $100 off you at the start of the trip.

What if I can’t keep up with the rest of the group?

We hike together as a group, stopping often for snacks and a good lunch. Some activities are optional if you feel like having some time out.

Are we going to encounter dangerous animals?

New Zealand does not have any snakes, bears, lions, or alligators. We have a small poisonous spider called the katipo that is so rare that it was recently made a protected species. At certain times of the summer and autumn, wasps can be a problem in some of our beech forests. If you are allergic to their sting, then make sure you carry medication, and tell your guide about it at the beginning of the trip. Otherwise, it is great to climb through the bush and lie in the grass without a thing to worry about.

Booking conditions

Payment

For bookings 4 or more months in advance of the departure a 20% deposit can be paid with the remainder due 65 days prior to your trip. For bookings within 4 months of the departure, full payment is required.

Transferring

You can transfer to another trip/departure as long as you do so more than 20 days prior to your pre-booked departure. Transfers within 20 days will require a cancellation and new booking. All transfers are subject to seat availability.

Cancellations

More than 20 days prior to departure – 80% refund if full amount paid.
20 to 10 days prior to departure – 50% refund.
Less than 10 days prior to departure – NO REFUND.
Deposits are not refunded.

Travel insurance

We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance. We ask you to fill out a disclaimer before you begin a trip. You must follow the instructions of your guide at all times.

Medical conditions

When you book you must notify us of any medical condition or medical history and any medications that you are on. In particular, we want to know about asthma, diabetes, heart conditions, allergies to wasp/ bee stings, and food allergies.

Client responsibilities

With any outdoor activity, there is an element of risk. Active Earth New Zealand operates in remote and mountainous areas. Risks could include hypothermia due to adverse weather conditions, or personal injury or property damage from hiking over rugged and uneven terrain.

The staff and management of Active Earth New Zealand take all practicable steps to identify and minimise potential dangers. However, you must follow our instructions (and use the safety equipment provided) at all times. Adults accompanying any person under the age of 18 must ensure that the underage person follows our instructions at all times. You must release or indemnify Active Earth New Zealand and our staff against any liability we incur to anyone else, resulting from your failure to follow our instructions or the failure of any person accompanying you under the age of 18 to follow our instructions.

Active Earth New Zealand and their guides reserve the right to make any alterations to the itinerary in the interest of safety, comfort, or unforeseen circumstances due to causes such as weather, illness, or misadventure.

Active Earth New Zealand operates in remote areas. Every reasonable endeavour will be made to keep to our published schedules but no guarantee is given. Active Earth New Zealand will not be held liable for costs incurred by change, delay, or the missing of connecting services.

Active Earth New Zealand reserves the right to exclude a person from a tour at any time if, in the opinion of the guide or operator, that person may be likely to risk the health, safety, or comfort (because of unsociable behaviour) of him or herself, other clients, or the environment. In such circumstances Active Earth New Zealand will not be obliged to offer any refund or transfer of ticket.

Active Earth New Zealand
Postal Address: PO Box 51, Lyttelton 8841, New Zealand
Phone: +64 3 384 3706; Fax: +64 3 376 6483
Free Phone New Zealand: 0800 20 10 40
Email: info@ActiveEarthNewZealand.com