Length 8 days

Price NZ$3250

Grade C - medium, 1 multi-day hike
Extras - 2 evening meals
Start - Christchurch Visitor Centre, Cathedral Square West @ 8:00am
Finish - Queenstown 7:00pm (approx.)

Fault-Line Adventure Dossier

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

Maximum 11 people.

Itinerary

New Zealand did not become one of the most diverse and dramatic landforms on earth by accident. Where New Zealand is situated happens to be right over a collision zone of two of the largest slabs of the earth's crust forming a fault-line. Over millions of years this collision has created the Southern Alps, which are the backbone of the South Island. During this 8-day adventure, we actually cross over the fault-line twice, once when we cross the alps near Arthur's Pass and again on day 6 on our way to Haast Pass. Don't worry if you are a bit confused by plate movement, collision zones and fault-lines because you are guaranteed to love the amazing play ground that it has created for us, and you will see it from so many different perspectives whether it be hiking through deep limestone canyons, kayaking across pristine lagoons, jetboating down the Wilkin River or from the air in a helicopter above the mountains of Mt Aspiring National Park. This is a trip of a lifetime, the perfect combination of adventure and incredible scenery with quality character accommodation to relax in at the end of the day.

Day 1 Saturday Join trip in Christchurch – 2-4 hours hiking/caving

The tour begins in Christchurch, which is also known as the Garden City. After a briefing from your guide we are soon heading across the Canterbury Plains towards the Southern Alps which form the backbone of the South Island. Our adventure begins in earnest when we arrive at Cave Stream Scenic Reserve. After exploring this bizarre yet beautiful landscape of limestone bluffs and outcrops we follow Cave Stream through an amazing subterranean canyon. Enjoy a picnic lunch once we are above ground. In the afternoon we hike up the nearby ‘Bealey Spur’ for expansive views of the Southern Alps. Then it’s a short drive through to the Arthur’s Pass Chalet where we spend the night. There is time in the afternoon to explore this quaint little alpine village and relax in the spa at the Chalet. Enjoy a delicious 3-course meal served at the Chalet restaurant.

Day 2 Sunday Arthurs Pass – 2 hours hiking

This morning there is the opportunity to go on a hike to nearby waterfalls or have a relaxing morning at the Chalet before we drive through to Lake Brunner (crossing the fault-line) for a picnic lunch and a swim. In the afternoon we take a hike along the wild and windswept West Coast near Punakaiki, exploring remote beaches and sea caves that were used by early Maori. At high tide we check out the famous Pancake Rocks, 30 million year old towers of limestone with spectacular blowholes. Accommodation tonight is nestled in the bush with spectacular views over the Tasman Sea.

Day 3 Monday Punakaiki, Paparoa National Park – 7-8 hours hiking

Today we hike one of the most beautiful day hikes in New Zealand. We are dropped off at Bullock Creek at an old abandoned farm. From here we follow the Inland Pack Track through luxuriant lowland rainforest, stopping for lunch on the banks of Fossil Creek. There is time to relax and feel dwarfed by the towering Rimu and Kahikatea trees, some over 50 metres tall and hundreds of years old. After lunch we continue on until we meet the Fox River Canyon. We follow this deep canyon crossing the river several times (learn river-crossing techniques) until we are met by the minibus on the coastal road. Return to our accommodation. Visit the local pub for dinner.

Day 4 Tuesday Okarito, South Westland World Heritage Area – 4 hours kayaking

We drive south today making a brief stop at Hokitika where we stock up on supplies. This town was once known as Capital of the Goldfields. It has become a major centre for pounamu (jade or greenstone) which was prized by the Maori for making jewellery, tools and lethal weapons. We continue on to Okarito, where the rainforest meets the sea. A historic gold-rush town, it is now a sleepy collection of seaside cottages with a permanent population of about 25. Here, we take sea kayaks and paddle out over the Okarito Lagoon, New Zealand's largest unmodified wetland. We explore the river delta, which takes us right into the rainforest. A great variety of bird-life can be seen from Tui's and Bellbirds in the forest, to Kotuku (white herons) and Spoonbills on the lagoon. Spend the afternoon/early evening on the beach learning how to prepare a hangi (an underground Maori earth oven). Enjoy the hangi feast sitting around a beach fire, before making a short drive to the township of Fox Glacier where we stay the night.

Day 5 Wednesday Fox Glacier – 4 hours hiking

Today we take a hike on the nearby Fox Glacier, one of the most dynamic glaciers in the world and one of the few places where you will see a glacier descending into a rainforest. On this half-day hike we explore seracs, crevasses and ice caves and learn about the fascinating natural history of this area. There is the option of upgrading (extra cost) to a heli hike, where you can walk and explore the upper reaches of the glacier. Tonight you get the opportunity to sample local cuisine at a restaurant of your choice. Spend a second night at the local B&B.

Day 6 Thursday Haast Pass – 1 hour hiking

We start the day with a leisurely hike around Lake Matheson - on a clear day the Southern Alps are perfectly reflected on the lake - a photographers paradise. We then continue south stopping at a local salmon farm to "pick up dinner". Today we cross back over the 'fault-line' (Southern Alps) to the eastern side and stay in Makarora. Take an afternoon hike or relax at the spacious homestead. Enjoy a delicious meal of fresh salmon.

Day 7 Friday Mount Aspiring National Park – 5 hours hiking

We start the day by boarding a helicopter for an extraordinary flight around the ice carved mountains and glaciers of the World Heritage, Mount Aspiring National Park. We land in the remote Siberia Valley. Home tonight is a classic backcountry hut that we will share with other hikers. You can either spend the day relaxing on the porch gazing at the mountains or go on an exhilarating hike up to Lake Crucible, a gorgeous alpine lake set amongst huge snow capped mountains.

Day 8 Saturday Trip ends in Queenstown – 3 hours hiking

We spend the morning hiking down to the Forks where we meet the jetboat, which will take us on a spectacular journey down the Wilkin River back to Makarora. We drive through to Wanaka, to a local vineyard for a celebratory wine and then it's just a short drive over the Crown Range into the alpine resort town of Queenstown. Here the trip concludes after 8 days of spectacular hikes, peaceful kayaking, exhilarating helicopter and jetboat trips coupled with relaxing accommodation.

The trip concludes in Queenstown. You may wish to take advantage of a free shuttle return to Christchurch on Day 9 or you can stay in Queenstown to enjoy the endless activities this town offers. Should you wish to take advantage of the free return to Christchurch on Day 9 please make this known on booking.

Please note

We do not recommend people book any onward travel on the evening of our arrival in Queenstown. There is a very small chance we could get a wild storm with heavy rain that keeps us up in the Siberia Valley for an extra night. This is highly unlikely, as our guides will be studying the long-range weather forecasts and may take you to a different area if the weather isn't suitable. However, we would hate for you to miss your flight, so it is best to plan a day in Queenstown after the trip and then fly out the next day just in case.

Additional costs

Dinner on nights 3 and 5 is not provided. On night 3 we go to the local pub which serves good hearty meals for around $15-$20 per main. On night 5 there is a selection of restaurants to choose from in the town of Fox Glacier.

Hiking and fitness – C

Up to 6 hours of physical activity per day.
At times carrying a backpack of 5-6kgs.
Altitude gains of up to 600m on harder days.
No hiking experience necessary.
Reasonable standard 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)
• backpack liner* (plastic bag)
• 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.

Equipment Hire:

Items marked * are available for use free of charge. You MUST request at time of booking.

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.

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

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

Most of the time we will be staying at locally owned B&B's. If you are travelling with a partner you can request a double/queen room, otherwise the rooms will be twin share. Most of the rooms have ensuite bathrooms. Single supplements are available. We try and stay away from big hotels and keep to the smaller friendlier places with lots of character! On the last night you will sleep in bunks in a classic back country hut, these huts can't be booked in advance so we will be sharing it with other users, but that just adds to the fun of it. You will need to have a sleeping bag for this night, but you can hire one off us if you need to.

Questions

Does it matter if I am travelling alone?
Not at all! This trip is great for getting to meet like-minded people while having a great adventure holiday at the same time. If you need your solo time, you can get this as well. All the activities are optional, so if you want to just relax and enjoy the view that's no problem!

What other trips can I do?
Check out our Hiking Safaris, it is possible to join our Secret South Safari in Queenstown after finishing the Fault-line Adventure.

What do I do with my valuables (passport, airline tickets, money, etc) 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. We try to leave the city early so we can spend more time in the wilderness. If we had to drive around the city picking everyone up it would delay our departure. It is much easier for everyone to meet at the Christchurch Visitors Information Centre, in Cathedral Square - and it doesn't cost much to get there on a taxi, shuttle or bus (or 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 is always a mixture of vegetarian and meat foods.

What is the weather going to be like?
New Zealand can be unpredictable! We have a maritime climate so conditions in the mountains can change quite rapidly. It can snow any time of year in the mountains. Generally though you can expect daytime temperatures around 25 deg C (75 Deg F) in mid summer and 15 Deg C (65 Deg F) in the spring and autumn. It is best to be prepared for the worst conditions we are likely to expect - see the 'What To Take' section. We may get some rain on the trip so a good waterproof raincoat is essential.

Who is in my group?
A small group (maximum 11 people), with a range of ages, nationalities and work backgrounds. Seventy percent of people are between 20 and 40, though 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.

Do I really need boots and will they get wet?
Yes and yes! Good hiking boots are essential to protect your feet and provide support. We hike through rough terrain, sometimes off-track. We frequently have to cross rivers with our boots on - again 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. A person who recently completed a safari had this to say:- 'My most favourite part of the safari was the discovery that walking in soggy boots and socks after crossing rivers is quite comfortable'.

How far in advance do I need to book?
The sooner the better for safaris departing in the peak season (November to April). We get many advance bookings so it is important to book early to avoid disappointment. Availability for our trips are updated regularly on our departure dates page.

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 safari then you could buy cheaper alternatives - just remember that it won't last as long or do the job as well.

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 safari. Otherwise, it is great to climb through the bush and lie in the grass without a thing to worry about.

How much luggage can I bring?
As space is limited in the trailers, we ask that you do not bring more than 120 liters of luggage, which is about one large backpack and a day pack.. If you have more we suggest you forward it to your accommodation in Queenstown for the end of the trip.

Do I need travel Insurance?
We strongly recommend it. Insurance will give you piece of mind in the unlikely event that you injure yourself or become ill and are unable to start the trip. Hiking New Zealand cannot be held liable for any damage, theft or loss of any of your personal equipment.

Will I have access to laundry while on the trip?
Yes. Most places we stay have laundry facilities.

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