New Zealand Multisport

Today we will head to the eastern end of the Wilderness Lodge’s Cora Lynn Station farm to Lake Pearson where we paddle across this lovely lake to the Purple Peak fan for morning tea on the lakeshore, searching for endangered Crested Grebe and other water birds along the way. Afterward, we will continue our adventure as we scramble down the Broken River gorge through amazing tumbled landscape of eroded limestone. Feeling rejuvenated after a bountiful lunch, we will travel upstream from the Porter River junction and climb onto the magnificent limestone castles and tors of Prebble Hill. Prior to dinner you’ll experience the sheep dogs mustering techniques followed by a sheep shearing demonstration at the sheep station at the lodge.

After a hearty breakfast we shuttle two hours to Hokitika, founded on gold mining in 1864, now known for its local artisans making jewelry from greenstone (Jade), found in the local rivers. As you make your way down the west coast, you will be inspired by the snow-capped mountains and the breathtaking views of the Tasman Sea. You’ll arrive at the Glacier Retreat where this pioneer family has resided for over 100 years. This special place has the intimate atmosphere of a private residence. Enjoy the culinary delights prepared by the 5th generation residents of Franz Josef.

After a hearty breakfast, choose to ride to Okarito Lagoon, home of the kotuku (white heron), or hike to the base of Franz Josef Glacier. Following this unforgettable experience, you’re free to explore town and try one of the many restaurants for lunch. Weather permitting, you’ll have the option to go heli-hiking on the glacier—your Trek Travel guides can help set this up with a local tour operator. (This activity is not included in the trip price.) Tonight you’ll be at your leisure to enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

This morning you will have the opportunity to challenge yourself over the triple bypass, a series of challenging hills or opt for a more relaxed morning shuttle over to the town of Fox Glacier. As you continue to make your way further south toward Westland National Park, take a break for a rejuvenating lunch at Bruce Bay, overlooking the Tasman Sea. Along the way, you can visit a Salmon Farm, specializing in smoked salmon. This afternoon you will arrive at the Lake Moeraki Wilderness Lodge. Situated amidst temperate rainforests, this amazing property has been recently renovated and features excellent hiking trails, kayaking and even glow-worms. Tonight we will gather for social hour and dinner at the lodge.

Today our naturalist guide will take us on an interpretive hike through the temperate rainforest to the banks of the Lower Moeraki River. From there you will kayak to the mouth of the river where you meet up with the Tasman Sea. Alternatively, our naturalist guide will take us on an adventurous hike, crossing some streams, until you emerge from the forest onto a breathtaking beach. From there, you will hike along the Tasman Sea in search of a resident Fur Seal colony, usually found basking in the sun. Both excursions are scheduled around the current tide table. Tonight we gather for another delicious dinner at our Lodge.

We’ll rise early today to prepare for the day’s long, spectacular ride to Wanaka. After breakfast you’ll have many options for shortening the ride to fit your mood. If high miles and challenging ascents are calling you, then you’ll start the ride from the lodge. If you’d rather take it easy, we’ll let you know the best places to start and finish, so you don’t miss some of the most beautiful vistas. No matter what option you choose, you’ll enjoy watching the scenery change as we make our way from the temperate rainforests of the west coast, over Haast Pass and the continental divide, to the pristine lakes featured around Wanaka. This evening we’ll enjoy a well-earned, homemade BBQ and expansive selection of tempting desserts with the fabulous hosts at our comfortable B&B-style lodge.

The options are endless again today and include adventures other than cycling so you can explore the area in a diverse fashion. Choose from the myriad optional activities that Wanaka has to offer, or opt for another day on the bike. Your guides can make arrangements for scenic flights out to Milford Sound, skydiving, jet boating, fishing, river sledging or any other adrenaline activity that you might be interested in. (These activities are not included in the trip price). If you are looking for a more mellow adventure, we have a beautiful bike ride out to Treble Cone along Lake Wanaka, or a short stroll along the lake to the renowned Rippon Winery. We’ll enjoy our final dinner together at Relishes Café in Wanaka and raise a glass to new friends and the cherished memories of awesome adventures undertaken during our South Island journey.

After breakfast we’ll take a one-hour hike up Mt. Iron for a great view of Wanaka, followed by a light snack. You’ll say farewell to your guides at 10:30 AM at Edgewater Resort. You’ll then shuttle to the Queenstown airport and downtown hotels. Connecting flights to Christchurch and Auckland are available on a regular basis. We suggest that you do not book a flight on this day prior to 3:00 PM.

VIEW MEETING AND DEPARTING INFORMATION»