Length 20 days

Price NZ$4950

Northern Portion Only
Length 7 days, NZ$1815

Southern Slice Only
Length 13 days, NZ$3135

Grade D - medium, 3 multi-day hikes
Extras - 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 9 dinners
Extras optional -
- sea kayaking (NZ$95)
- Kaituna rafting (NZ$99)
- mountain biking (NZ$49)
- glacier hiking (NZ$123)
- Rangitata rafting (NZ$195)
Start - Atrium pick up zone 20 metres from Sky Tower base, corner Victoria & Federal Streets, Auckland @ 7:00am
Finish - Christchurch 7:00pm

2012-2013 dates available on request.

New Zealand Uncut 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

This is the complete experience! Explore both islands as you weave your way through this magnificent country. Maximise your time in the wilderness yet still marvel at the iconic destinations. Enjoy true wilderness campsites followed by comfortable eco lodges. A range of activities including white water rafting, sea kayaking, glacier walking and mountain biking complement the hikes superbly and keep this tour as diverse and exciting as the landscapes we explore!

Day 1 Monday Join trip in Auckland – 2 hours hiking, 4 hours kayaking

Drive south to Thames at the base of the Coromandel Peninsula. Here we stock up with food and supplies before driving north along this idyllic pohutukawa (NZ Christmas tree) coast. We explore a kauri forest grove of towering ancient trees before crossing over the ranges to the east coast. Picnic lunch on the white sands of Hot Water Beach before an afternoon sea kayak (optional extra) or hike along the beautiful Cathedral Cove coast. Sea kayakers paddle through a marine reserve, where you may observe fish and if you’re lucky dolphins, in the sparkling clear waters. Late afternoon we drive south to our accommodation. You may like to indulge in an evening stroll along an open ocean beach. L

Day 2 Tuesday Rotorua – 1 hour rafting, 1 hour hiking

Driving south, we stop to clamber down the cliffs to one of the beautiful Pacific coast beaches for a swim before heading inland to Rotorua. Stop for a picnic lunch and a walk through lush native bush beside the thundering Kaituna River. There is the option to take a 1 hour rafting trip (optional extra) on the Kaituna River. This trip is for the wild at heart as it travels down one of the highest commercially rafted waterfalls in the world. In the afternoon or the following morning we explore one of the incredible thermal areas near Rotorua. Marvel at the bubbling mud, sulphurous smells and mineral-induced colours of the rock and lakes. Stay at lodge accommodation nearby. BL

Day 3 Wednesday Whirinaki – 5 hours hiking

We drive east through the huge Kaingaroa forests of plantation pine trees to the natural Whirinaki Forest Park. Pack up your kit for the two-day hike through this spectacular Jurassic-like rainforest. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time, to where the dinosaurs roamed, as you splash through streams and soak up pure wilderness. Learn river-crossing techniques from your capable guide. We overnight at a hut/camp, preparing delicious wholesome food to sustain us well through the hiking. Laze around a campfire, share travel stories and later fall asleep to the sounds of the river. BLD

Day 4 Thursday Whirinaki – 5 hours hiking

Second day of the hike. We shoulder our now familiar packs and follow alongside the beautiful Whirinaki River. This remote wilderness is completely off the tourist trail. We often see rare blue ducks and robins, hear kaka (a large bush parrot) and hike along beneath majestic tree ferns. We are met at the road end on the far side of the park. On our drive towards Taupo there’s time to have a dip in a natural hot river, one of those secret spots only the locals know about. Look at the powerful Huka Falls, feel the spray on your face, before relaxing in the lodge near Tongariro National Park. BLD

Day 5 Friday Tongariro World Heritage Area – 5 hours hiking

After being dropped off at the trail start, we hike through waving tussock-grasslands between the volcanoes to a hut set in an enclave of native beech forest. After lunch we traverse across stony deserts to an alpine hut at 1400m, perched on the edge of an old lava flow. From this hut we get fantastic views of the three main peaks in the park; Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. It’s an extraordinary landscape of active volcanoes and lava valleys, dynamic and changing even in recent years. Revel in the experience of sharing a basic alpine hut with like-minded travellers passionate about the outdoors. BLD

Day 6 Saturday Tongariro World Heritage Area – 6-8 hours hiking

We hike up through a moon-like valley of contorted lava flows and ash fields before climbing up a steep section to the Emerald Lakes, our usual lunch stop. We cross the volcanic plateau, which boasts lava valleys and steaming explosion craters, flanked by the brooding volcanoes, before descending on the western side. In good conditions, there is an option to climb one of the volcanic peaks. Tongariro National Park is full of landscapes the likes of which are found nowhere else in New Zealand. An evening drive takes us to a lodge beside the park with great views back on the volcanoes. Enjoy a beer and meal out in the alpine village. BL

Day 7 Sunday Wellington

Morning drive to Wellington, arriving in the early afternoon. Wellington is New Zealand’s wonderful harbour capital. The giant fault-created harbour almost encircled by steep suburbs gives it a giant coliseum feel. Nowhere is very far in this stylish city. You have free time to enjoy walking around. You may like to visit the museum of New Zealand, called Te Papa, or the beehive (Parliament House). Wellington is well known for its vibrant café scene and its accessible downtown area. People come into the city to enjoy the lively atmosphere. BL

Day 8 Monday Abel Tasman National Park

Depending on final arrangements, group are met by our South Island-based guide at either the Picton Ferry terminal or the nearby airport at Koromiko. Travel from here through to Nelson and on to Kaiteriteri. This picturesque beachside village is the gateway into Abel Tasman National Park. Board a water taxi here for a 30 minute ride into one of the most beautiful campsites in the park, Onetahuti. On arrival tents are set up and there is time for a wander along the beach, or a swim before enjoying dinner prepared by your guide. LD

Day 9 Tuesday Abel Tasman National Park– 1.5 hours hiking, 3 hours kayaking

Start the day with a 1.5hr walk along the Abel Tasman coastal track to Bark Bay; sea kayaks and a local guide meet us there for a paddle exploring the bays and coast back to Anchorage. From Anchorage board the water taxi once more for the return journey to Kaiteriteri. Kayaking is optional, should you prefer to hike instead. Drive to St Arnaud village, situated on the shores of Lake Rotoiti with a dramatic backdrop of mountains. BLD

Day 10 Wednesday Nelson Lakes National Park – 5 hours hiking

We start the day with an optional pre-breakfast walk around the Rotoiti Mainland Island reserve. Intensive pest eradication schemes are in place in this area of beech forest in an effort to restore native bird populations to a pre–European state. After breakfast we take a short drive up on to the Robert Range to start our hike. From the car park the track climbs steadily on to the crest of the Robert Range. Wide expansive views of mountains and lakes are the reward for the climb. We have lunch at Bushline Hut, which is perched on a grassy ledge high above Lake Rotoiti. Return to the vehicle via a different track and then drive over the Southern Alps at Lewis Pass to Hanmer Springs thermal resort. After an active day, a soak in the renowned hot pools here will be the perfect end to the day. BL

Day 11 Thursday Hanmer Springs – 5 hours hiking or biking

Today there is the option of hiring a mountain bike (optional extra) and exploring the trails that wind their way through the park-like setting of exotic forest species. Alternatively take a hike up Mt Isobel, the nearby mountain, which dominates the skyline behind the village. Relaxing in one of the local cafes and taking another dip in the hot pools are also options today. At midday we depart and drive south, an organic brewery and café is the lunch stop. Try some excellent locally brewed beers with lunch before continuing across the Canterbury Plains and foothills to Flock Hill Station, a large sheep and cattle farm set in the Canterbury high country. After dinner there is the option of joining the guide for a short drive to nearby Lake Pearson, excellent photo opportunities to capture the pristine reflections of the Southern Alps in the lake. Return to the station accommodation. BD

Day 12 Friday Flock Hill – 4-5 hours hiking

A morning hike up nearby Bealey Spur where we enjoy brunch at an old ‘Musterers Hut’. The hike offers excellent views looking up the wide braided river bed of the Waimakariri River to the Southern Alps. The vegetation ranges from mature beech forest, regenerating manuka (Tea Tree), and sub alpine clearings dotted with tarns (small alpine lakes). Back in the vehicle we pass through the small alpine village of Arthur’s Pass before crossing back over the Southern Alps and descending through lush native forests to the coastal plains of the West Coast. The night is spent at Hokitika, a once thriving gold mining town in the 1860’s, today the town is a little more relaxed but with plenty of charm. In true “kiwi style” tonight’s dinner is a meal of fish and chips (optional), on the beach, watching the sun go down over the Tasman Sea. BL

Day 13 Saturday Franz Josef Glacier – 4 hours glacier hiking

Drive down the coast this morning to Franz Josef Glacier, one of the few places in the world where you can see glaciers descending right down into rainforest. Here you have the option of taking a half-day guided hike (optional extra) up on the glacier. Local guides fit you out with special crampons that fix to your boots giving you extra traction on the ice. After the hike enjoy the world class scenery as we drive south through South Westland World Heritage Area. Final destination for the day is the village of Haast with a stop at Ship Creek, a coastal walkway where Hector’s Dolphins (world’s smallest marine dolphin) are often spotted playing in the surf. BLD

Day 14 Sunday Mt Aspiring National Park – 3 hours hiking

Crossing the Southern Alps for a third and final time today at Haast Pass takes us into a markedly different landscape. Lush rainforests give way to high mountain peaks and vast glacially formed lakes and valleys. A stop in the resort town of Wanaka gives you time to wander around and enjoy the awe-inspiring vistas before we head off on an overnight hike into Mt Aspiring National Park, part of the South Westland World Heritage Area. Our afternoon hike follows the wide valley floor of the Matukituki River to Aspiring Hut. This large stone hut offers comfortable yet basic accommodation in incredible surroundings. For those that prefer camping there is a sheltered campsite nearby. BLD

Day 15 Monday Mt Aspiring National Park – 5 hours hiking

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in this majestic mountain setting, before a hike up a side valley to view the Rob Roy Glacier. On return to the vehicle the drive takes us over the Crown Range, we stop off for a drink at the historic drover’s hotel at Cardrona and arrive into Queenstown late afternoon. BL

Day 16 Tuesday Queenstown or Milford Sound

Today is either a free day in Queenstown or you may want to use this day to visit Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park (optional extra). Your guide can arrange coach and cruise or fly and cruise options. If staying in Queenstown there will be plenty of adventure activities to keep you entertained. Your guide is happy to advise and organise these on your behalf.

Day 17 Wednesday Queenstown – 6-8 hours hiking

A free day to take advantage of all the adventure activities available in Queenstown, or join the guide for a day hike to the summit of Ben Lomond, which overlooks Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.

Day 18 Thursday Aoraki / Mt Cook – 4 hours hiking

Leave Queenstown and drive through the MacKenzie country and on to Aoraki/Mt Cook. Arriving at Mt Cook Village at midday gives us the whole afternoon to hike up to Sealy Tarns, and for the more energetic, on to the crest of Mueller Ridge. An alternative easier but no less spectacular walk is also available up the Hooker Valley to view the Hooker Glacier. Both hikes afford amazing views of New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki at 3754 metres. BLD

Day 19 Friday Peel Forest – 3 hours rafting

We continue north today through the MacKenzie Country and on to Peel Forest, a small farming settlement near the banks of the Rangitata River. The Rangitata is an iconic South Island river, fed by glaciers in the Southern Alps, it tumbles its way down on to the Canterbury Plains where it spreads itself out over an extremely wide and braided riverbed. It also happens to be one of New Zealand’s premium white water rafting rivers, the whole trip takes about three hours and offers some thrilling sections of grade 5 white water (optional extra). If rafting is not your thing, horse trekking and bush walks are also available. Tonight we stay in a nearby eco-lodge, nestled in native bush, all electricity is provided by solar panels, and it can only be accessed on foot or 4WD. It is about a 5 minute walk to the lodge from where we leave the vehicle. Fresh salmon is part of tonight’s dinner that we prepare together. BLD

Day 20 Saturday Tour ends Christchurch – 5 hours hiking

Last day of the tour today, but still time for yet another spectacular hike. We drive to Mt Somers Reserve, an area of volcanic origins, characterised by deep canyons, honey dew forest and lofty mountain peaks. We follow an old miner’s track into a trampers hut at Woolshed Creek, where we have lunch. Before returning via a slightly different track, there is the option of exploring some water caves, which may get you a little wet! Once back at the vehicle, we head back across the Canterbury Plains, with a stop at a local country pub. Opportunity to have a celebratory drink before arriving in Christchurch in the late afternoon. BL

Notes

The trip price includes all accommodation.
Unless specified in 'Additional costs' below the trip price includes all meals and sufficient snacks. We cater for the big appetites generated while doing activities such as hiking and kayaking. We don't supply alcohol or thrills such as icecreams or espressos so you could bring a little cash to spend on your fix.
You can choose to do only the Northern Portion (North Island) or Southern Slice (South Island) part of the trip. On Day 8, at the end of the Northern Portion, you may return to Auckland with the guide. Enquire when booking.

Additional costs

Meals that are included in the trip price are detailed above as B (breakfast), L (lunch) and D (dinner). Three breakfasts, three lunches and nine dinners are not included. The average cost for a restaurant dinner (main course) in New Zealand is about $25. Meals are not provided for the two free days in Queenstown.
Optional activities must be paid for during the trip and include sea kayaking, Kaituna rafting, mountain biking, glacier hiking, and Rangitata rafting.

Hiking and fitness – D

Average 4-5 hours physical activity per day, up to 8-9 hours on longer days.
Pack weights of 12-15kgs on some days. (Overnight hikes: Whirinaki, Tongariro and Mt Aspiring.)
Altitude gains of up to 800m.
Some uneven track surfaces and river crossings.
No hiking experience necessary.
Agility and fitness required.

You need to be reasonably fit and enthusiastic.
Terrain mostly tracks. Some may be slippery or rough; some off-track hiking and river crossings.

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

A lot of the meals are included on this tour, but when staying in the larger towns we let you do your own thing and try some of the excellent local restaurants. The meals we cook and prepare ourselves will be healthy and wholesome and include a lot of fresh produce. You may be asked to help the guide with preparation or washing up, don’t let this put you off though, it is part of our philosophy to get everyone involved. We believe this makes the whole experience more fun and rewarding. The trailers we tow are customised with a fold down table and cooking area, great for preparing picnics at all those secret places we will take you. Breakfast is usually continental style but don’t be surprised if you wake up to the smell of fresh pancakes! When you go on an overnight hike the group will carry a portable stove.

Accommodation

The New Zealand Uncut tour uses a range of accommodation: on the overnight hikes we either stay in huts or tents. The rest of the time we stay in comfortable and clean lodges and cabins. Generally rooms are twin share, if you are travelling on your own there may be occasions where you are in a triple share room with fellow travellers of the same gender.

Questions

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 just the North or South Island component?

Yes. The price for the North Island only is NZ$1815 and the South Island only is NZ$3135.

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.

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.

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?

Most places we stay 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. You will need cash for any extras and optional activities such as kayaking.

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 25% 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 93, Lyttelton 8841, New Zealand
Phone: +64 3 384 3706; Fax: +64 3 376 6483
Free Phone New Zealand: 0800 697 232
Email: info@ActiveEarthNewZealand.com