Walk New Zealand's Abel Tasman & Queen Charlotte

Day 1 - Christchurch / Lewis Pass / St Arnaud
Kia Ora! Welcome to New Zealand. Your adventure begins in Christchurch with a welcome meeting at 8 am this morning. If you arrive a few days early, maybe stroll through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens to see the native plants or stop by the Canterbury Museum to learn about the region’s cultural heritage. After your meeting, your trip starts straight away as you make your way to Hanmer Springs in the Lewis Pass National Reserve. When you arrive, set off on the Conical Hill Walk for panoramic views over the town, forest and mountains. After a bite to eat, travel to Saint Arnaud – a small alpine village in the Tasman district where you’ll spend the night.

Day 2 - Nelson Lakes NP / Marahau
This morning, set off on the Mt Robert Circuit. This loop track takes you around the northern face of Pourangahau (Mount Robert) and offers beautiful views over Lake Rotoiti. After your hike, jump back on the bus and head to Marahau – a seaside resort in the Tasman Region. The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace. Maybe go for a swim at the nearby beach or find a local restaurant for dinner – your leader will have the best recommendations.

Day 3 - Abel Tasman NP / Marahau
After breakfast, take a water taxi to Anchorage – the starting point for today’s hike. From here, you’ll walk the final part of the Abel Tasman Coast track, ending back at your base from the night before. Along the way, take in the coastal views and look for native birds like fantails and wood pigeons. Depending on what time you arrive back in Marahau, maybe rent a kayak and paddle along the Falls River to finish off your memorable day in Abel Tasman.

Day 4 - Picton / Queen Charlotte Track
Travel to Malborough Sounds – an extensive network of sheltered inlets, clear waters, sandy bays and forested hills at the northern end of the South Island. When you arrive in Picton, head out on a water taxi to Anakiwa – a coastal residential village on the Queen Charlotte Track. From here, walk the track to tonight’s accommodation situated in the secluded surroundings of Lochmara Bay. Tonight, maybe join your fellow travellers for dinner – a great way to celebrate a trip well-travelled.

Day 5 - Christchurch
This morning, board a water taxi to Kaipupu Sancturary – a nature conservation reserve. When you arrive, set off on a short loop track around the sanctuary. After, drive down the east coast of the South Island to Kaikoura – a coastal town known for its wildlife. Take a pitstop on your way out of town to see a local fur seal colony. Then, continue to Christchurch. When you arrive later this afternoon, your trip comes to an end. If you’d like to stay longer, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.