WALKS OF NEW ZEALAND

A LITTLE PREPARATION WILL ENSURE THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME!

Whilst not extreme, many people consider the Milford and/or Routeburn Tracks to be a personal challenge. The terrain is often steep and the track surface can vary from flat and maintained, to rocky and even flooded at times. A moderate level of fitness is recommended to ensure that you are able to fully enjoy these walks. If you are not a regular walker, we suggest you begin a regime 6 to 8 weeks before departure, gradually increasing the distance and adding some hills into your training circuit. The weather in Fiordland can be very unpredictable. Please adhere to our recommended equipment list and be prepared for every eventuality, as it is not uncommon to experience snow in the middle of summer.

A full information pack detailing your walk and how to prepare will be issued upon booking. ANZCRO is happy to answer any questions.

Temperatures In Fiordland

Summer months: Dec - Apr in Fiordland offers the warmest days between 10 - 18°C.

Winter months:

May and November can be between 1 - 9°C, however cold weather can occur at any time of year.

Weighing It All Up

Going Guided:

» Well appointed comfortable lodges

» Comfortable beds

» Drying rooms

» Hot showers

» Meals provided

» Travel provided

» Small backpacks (5-7kg)

» Knowledgable guides

» Safety is paramount

Going it Alone:

» Basic huts

» Carry your own bedding

» You get wet, you stay wet!

» No showers

» Carry and cook your own food

» Arrange your own logistics

» Large backpacks (15-20kg)

Described as the ‘Finest Walk in the World’, this 53km guided trek is New Zealand’s most famous. The memories will last a lifetime and the sense of achievement is awesome!

Departures: Daily except Tuesday & Wednesday 01 Dec 21 - 03 Apr 22

Day Prior: Pre-track briefing. Check-in at 4.45pm

Day 1: Queenstown to Glade House - Coach from Queenstown, stopping for lunch at Te Anau. Then cruise across lake Te Anau to commence the first 1.6km of the track, arriving at historic Glade House for the night.

Day 2: Glade House to Pompolona Lodge - A 16km walk, crossing the Clinton River before you walk up the valley to Hirere Falls lunch shelter. The beech forest gets more luxuriant the farther you go, until it releases you onto the Prairie. It’s a short climb to Pompolona Lodge from here.

Day 3: Pompolona Lodge to Quintin Lodge -These 15km's are the most demanding, especially in inclement weather. The track leads to Lake Mintaro at the head of the Clinton Valley, before climbing the Mackinnon Pass in a series of zigzags. Take your time. At the top you will be rewarded with spectacular panorama views, and lunch at Pass Hut. It is a steep and rocky descent into the Arthur Valley so you will welcome a drink and snack at Quintin Lodge. This should be enough to refresh you for the optional 90 minute round trip to Sutherland Falls, the world's fifth highest waterfall.

Day 4: Quintin Lodge to Mitre Peak Lodge - The last 21km is dotted with some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the Fiordland National Park. The final stretch of track follows tranquil Lake Ada to Sandfly Point where you will take a short launch trip to the renowned Mitre Peak Lodge.

Day 5: Milford Sound to Queenstown - Wake to the tranquillity of Fiordland and after breakfast experience a magical cruise on Milford Sound – often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world. Then it’s time to board the coach for a scenic drive through the heart of the National Park, including the spectacular Homer Tunnel and back to Queenstown.

3 Day Routeburn Track Guided Walk

A 3 day alpine adventure through World Heritage Fiordland and Mt Aspiring National Parks. We challenge you not to fall in love with this awe-inspiring scenery.

Departures: Wednesday to Sunday 01 December 21 - 03 April 22

Day Prior: Pre-track briefing. Check-in at 3.45pm

Day 1: Queenstown to Lake Mackenzie – Coach from Queenstown to the Divide on the scenic Milford Road, stopping at Te Anau for morning tea. Starting at the Divide, it is a 12km walk through ancient moss-laden forests to Key summit, then on to Lake Howden for lunch. The track gradually climbs before descending to the Lodge at Lake Mackenzie.

Day 2: Lake Mackenzie to Routeburn Falls -A 11km walk, wind your way up through the forest from Lake Mackenzie to reach the full vista of the Darran Mountains across the Hollyford Valley. After lunch at Harris Saddle and the spectacular optional Conical Hill walk, descend around Lake Harris to the upper basins of the Routeburn Valley. Spend your final night at the beautifully located Routeburn Falls Lodge.

Day 3: Routeburn Falls to Queenstown - The last 9 km descends down to the alpine pastures of the Routeburn Flats. The track shadows the river through the beech forest to the Road End, stop for lunch on the way. A coach will take you back to Queenstown after stopping in Glenorchy for a celebratory drink.

Inclusions: All transport from and to Queenstown, 4 nights Lodge accommodation, all meals from lunch day 1 to lunch day 5 use of quality backpacks and PVC raincoats (if required), the service of expert guides. #Private single person rates on application

Inclusions: All transport from and to Queenstown, 2 nights Lodge accommodation, all meals from lunch day 1 to lunch day 3, use of quality backpacks and PVC raincoats (if required), the service of expert guides. #Note: Rates on application for the 6 day/5 night Grand Traverse (Routeburn and Greenstone Valley Combo)

8 Day The Classic Guided Walk

For those that want to do it all, combine New Zealand’s two finest walks: the Milford and the Routeburn Tracks.

Day Prior: Pre-track briefing. Check-in at 4.45pm

Day 1-4 As per Milford Track itinerary

Day 5 Morning cruise on the breathtaking Milford Sound then coach to Te Anau. Remainder of day free, overnight Te Anau Hotel included (room only)

Day 6-8 As per the Routeburn Track itinerary. Meeting at the Ultimate Hikes Office, Te Anau.

6 DAY GRAND TRAVERSE- ROUTEBURN & GREENSTONE WALK

The Grand Traverse starts on the shores of Lake Wakitipu and stretches the length of the Greenstone and Routeburn Valleys, crossing the main divide twice in the process. The Greenstone and Routeburn Tracks have long been New Zealand's most accessible and popular routes into the spectacular South Island high country.

The Grand Traverse passes through two national parks: Fiordland and Mount Aspiring, and is part of Te Wahipounamu, South West New Zealand World Heritage Area. The pristine bush is home to a myriad of native birdlife: the Robin; Kea; Fantail; Parakeet; Bellbird; and Yellowhead, just to name a few. The sheer isolation and raw beauty of the Greenstone provide the perfect stage for the breathtaking scenery of the Routeburn. An unsurpassable combination to make a memorable walking experience.

Day Prior: Pre Track Briefing, Check in at 2.45pm

Day 1 Glenorchy to Steele Creek - 18km (11.1 miles), 5-7 hours walking

Your morning coach trip from Queenstown follows Lake Wakatipu to Glenorchy. Continue around the lake to the mouth of the fabled Greenstone River, you don your pack and follow the Greenstone track into the stately red beech forest. Then you return to the river and views of Mt Christina reward you as you stroll up the finnal river flats to Steele Creek Lodge. Lunch & Dinner included.

Inclusions: All transport from and to Queenstown, 7 nights Lodge accommodation, all meals from lunch day 1 to lunch day 8 (excluding dinner day 5 and breakfast day 6), use of quality backpacks and PVC raincoats (if required), the service of expert guides. #Private single person rates on application

Day 2

Steele Creek to Lake McKellar - 16km (10 miles), 4-5 hours walking

After a hearty breakfast, walk through a sea of red tussock on the river flats. Ancient pines and cottonwoods cling to the sheer mountain sides, which come alive with water on rainy days. The track allows spectacular views of the Ailsa and Livingstone Ranges as you approach Lake McKellar and the lodge. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included.

Day 3 Lake McKellar - Day of exploration and rest

This is your chance to explore the area on foot, row on the lake or just relax and read a novel. There is an activity for everyone. Take a stroll to the waterfall, or hike up to the lookout for a view down the river flats and your first glimpse of the Routeburn Track. If you are ready for a challenge you can climb higher to the untracked tops and marvel at Fiordland's mountain scenery. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included.

Day 4 Lake McKellar to Lake Mackenzie 16km (10 miles), 5-6 hours walking

Today you cross the main divide via the Greenstone Saddle and glimpse mountains and lakes through lush forest. You meet the Routeburn Track at Lake Howden and have the option to make the ascent to Key Summit. Here you can sit among the alpine plants and gaze down three valleys from which water flows to three different coasts. You then descend back down to Lake Howden hut for a hot drink and picnic lunch, before gradually climbing through lush silver beech forest to the base of Earland Falls, quite a sight in wet weather! You will look over the Hollyford Valley to the ice capped Darran Mountains before descending to the splendid lodge at Lake Mackenzie where refreshments, a hot shower, three course meal and a comfortable bed are waiting. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner are included.

Day 5 Lake Mackenzie to Routeburn Falls - 15km (9 miles), 5- 7 hours walking

Some examples of the accommodation provided:

You leave the ancient forest draped in moss and lichen and enter the world of daisies, buttercups, gentians and edelweiss. Here you have a full vista of the Darran Mountains across the Hollyford Valley, which slices through Fiordland to the distant Tasman Sea at Martin's Bay. After lunch at the Harris Saddle, you can ascend Conical Hill for a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks. After walking around Lake Harris you descend into the upper basins of the Routeburn Valley, with the towering mountains above. Spend your final night of luxury at the beautifully located Routeburn Falls Lodge. Breakast, Lunch & Dinner included.

Day 6 Routeburn Falls to Road End - 10km (6 miles), 3-4 hours walking

Take time to enjoy the dramatic landscape around the Falls, before descending to the alpine pastures of the Routeburn Flats. Your guides will take the scenic route through the meadows and !nd the deepest green pool for you to picnic beside. The track shadows the river as it roars through a magni!cent gorge before plunging beneath the unyielding rocks at the Sump. From here it is a gentle walk through the beech forest to the Road End. A coach will take you back to Queenstown, stopping at the small town of Glenorchy on the way. Breakfast & Lunch included.

Inclusions: All transport from Queenstown to the start of track and return to Queenstown, accommodation, meals, snacks, backpacks and rain jackets. Accommodation is in our fully serviced lodges and you will be led by our expert guides. Important note: Private rooms are available on the Routeburn Track section only. The Greenstone Track lodges have multishare rooms only.

THE HUMP RIDGE TRACK, FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK

The Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track is a 3 day loop walk that takes hikers along the south coast of New Zealand, up to the sub-alpine zone of the Hump Ridge and over historic viaducts in the heart of native forest. Our two backcountry lodges are in superb locations, each offering a unique stopping point along the walk.

Ours is the only walking track in Fiordland that offers upgrade facilities to independent trampers. Enjoy a hot shower and super king-sized bed on your tramp. Helipacking available every Thursday or for Guided Walkers every Friday. Each of our lodges has disabled facilities and wheelchair access to/from the helipad, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a wilderness experience.

Heard it’s a long walk? Then consider the exhilaration of the Wairaurahiri Jet Boat option. Take 3 hours off the last day’s walk and thrill to a spectacular jet boat ride up grade 3 rapids on the wild Wairaurahiri River across Lake Hauroko and returning by road Tuatapere.

GUIDED PACKAGE - Let us show you more wilderness and less people with our Guided Walk

For the walker wanting a fully guided experience Humpridge has the solution. Your adventure begins at our office in Tuatapere, where you learn about the track and get to know your guide before checking into your accommodation. From there the adventure begins!

• Departs Fridays and sometimes on a Tuesday, depending on demand

• 3 days/3 nights

Thursday night pre-walk B&B accommodation at The Cliffs. Transport from The Cliffs to meet the chopper to start your experience. Multi share accommodation & a hot shower with all linen supplied or upgrade to a Private Double or Twin Premium room with shared bathroom facilities.

• A short helicopter flight to take you across Te Waewae Bay on Day 1

• Heli-pack your pack (max 15kg) up the hill to Okaka on Day 1. A day pack is all you’ll need to carry your lunch, wet weather gear and a change of clothes

• Fully catered with cooked breakfasts, packed lunches and 3 course dinners. Snacks and fresh fruit also provided

HISTORIC/JET BOAT COMBO ADDON:

For walkers wanting a shorter walk with a wilderness Jet Boat trip! To get a taste of the magnificent scenery this combo can be added to any of the above walks for just $189 per person (in addition to the cost of your walk).

Departs daily – Prior booking essential

• This option can be added to any Freedom, Prime package or Guided Package

Start with a 4WD option to Trackburn, then 20km relatively flat walk to the Percy Burn Viaduct. One night stay over at Percy Burn Hut, then on to the Wairaurahiri River, to catch the jet boat up river for 35km. They will then drive you back to the Tuatapere office. Alternatively head back to the jet boats on Day 3 from Port Craig Lodge, and come out upriver with the jet boats.

Hollyford Track Guided Walk

Located in the spectacular Fiordland National Park, the dramatic Hollyford Wilderness Experience is one of New Zealand’s greatest walks.

Enjoy an intimate guided experience with groups limited to 16 people, accommodated for in our private lodges along the track. Explore undisturbed and inspiring scenery that has remained largely untouched for thousands of years, from the snowcapped mountains of the majestic Southern Alps, ancient native rainforest, pristine rivers, and lakes to te remove sane dunes, reef and surf of the rugged West Coast.

Day 1: Pre-departure briefing is at 5.30pm (essential to attend)

Transport from Queenstown: 2:30pm (onwards) at most central hotels (excludes private residence) OR 3:00pm at The Station Building, Duke Street OR 3:30pm at Queenstown Airport

OR: Make your own way to Te Anau and check into the Distinction Luxmore Hotel.

Pre-Departure Briefing: Hollyford Valley Walks, Shop 10 / 23 Town Centre, Te Anau

Please meet your Hollyford guide at 6:25pm for your pre-departure briefing, commencing at 6:30pm. An outline of the next few days will be given, and if you require rain jackets, backpacks and/or pack liners we will have them available for you here.

Dinner: Dinner will be available for you from 7:30pm.

Accommodation details: Your room at the Distinction Luxmore Hotel is confirmed.

Day 2: Breakfast is included and will be available from 6:30am at the hotel. After breakfast, please meet your guide and fellow walkers at 7:45am at the hotel reception ready to embark on your journey through the Hollyford Valley. From Te Anau you will take a scenic bus trip through the majestic Eglinton Valley to the start of the track. As the track undulates gently through native beech forest and beside tumbling waterfalls, your guide begins the historical tales of the intrepid Māori and early Europeans, and an interpretation of the forest and bird life. In the evening, visit our nearby glow-worm colony and resident eels before retiring for the night at Pyke Lodge.

Walking distance 19.5km / 12 miles You will be carrying your pack with all your gear.

Day 3: Following breakfast you begin your day with a short walk to Lake Alabaster and take in the spectacular views of the Skippers Range. Mid-morning our jet boat will take you down the Hollyford River and across Lake McKerrow to the historic site of Jamestown. You will then walk through the ancient Podocarp forest to our lunch tent, and onwards in the afternoon to the seal rookery before finishing the day at Martins Bay Lodge.

Walking distance 15km / 9 miles We will transport your pack and give you a day pack to carry items such as jacket, camera etc.

Day 4: After breakfast jet boat across to the sandspit and explore the Martins Bay sand-dunes, lagoon and beach. The stories of the early settlers will be wrapped up before you return to Martins Bay Lodge for lunch. Then enjoy a scenic flight to Milford Sound, followed by our coach transfer back to Queenstown (via Te Anau) arriving at approximately 6:30pm.

Walking distance approx. 5km / 3 miles

You will use a day pack to carry your jacket, camera etc.

Includes:

Specialist, experienced guides for the complete itinerary.

Track accommodation in well-appointed private lodges with 4 Ensuite rooms and 4 twin share bunk-style rooms (shared bathrooms) and hot showers. All meals and snacks on the track, with three course gourmet lodge dinners.

Beddng, towels, shampoo & conditioner, shower gel and hairdryers.

Transportation of your pack on day three and four.

Use of backpacks, rain jackets and walking poles if required.

Wilderness jet boat journey down the Hollyford River and on Lake McKerrow.

• Amazing scenic helicopter flight to Milford Sound.

• Return coach transport from Queenstown to Te Anau.

FAQ’s - Frequently Asked Questions

Fitness: As a valley walk this is an achievable walk for all ages (10+) but we do recommend a daily walking regime several months prior to travel as you do need to be comfortable with walking 19.5kms. You only carry your pack on day 1. On days 2 and 3 it is transported for you so all you carry is a day pack.

Accommodation: Well appointed lodges with dining and lounge areas, open fires and drying rooms. Shared bathrooms with flush toilets and showers. Towels, shampoo, soap, hairdryers provided. Bedrooms are ensuite or twin share with linen, duvets and hot water bottles provided. Generator power is available till 10pm.

Meals: 3 course evening meal prepared by your lodge hosts, full breakfast and wilderness lunches

ANZCRO will provide you with a full Gear List and all important notes prior to departure.

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