New Zealand Manuka Hiking Tour An Inn and Backcountry Lodge-based Hiking Adventure featuring the best of the South Island New Zealand, one of the most sought after destinations in the world, is a land of astonishing contrasts. Imagine a tranquil coastline, subtropical rainforest, and huge glaciated mountains rearing out of the sea. In this venerable paradise, we blend magnificent scenery and remote locations with world-class activities like hiking along deserted golden beaches, through ancient rain forests and among breathtaking mountain scenery. This is an active hiking trip at a relaxed pace. It's designed for people who are keen on the off-thebeaten-track Kiwi style of our trips, but who also enjoy their creature comforts and maybe want to take things a little easier than the folks on our more challenging trips. We have a strong focus on New Zealand's natural history, and the more relaxed pace of this trip means our guides have plenty of time to interpret the local biosphere and explain the geological and social history of the areas we visit. You'll be hiking on most days, from lush rainforest on the West Coast and Fox Glacier, to the snow-capped mountains of Mt. Aspiring and Mt. Cook National Parks. We've also included your choice of the famed Milford Track Guided Walk or the Great Walks Discovery, possibly the best kept secret in Fiordland National Park. Round out each day with Kiwi hospitality, local cuisine and evenings of creature comforts, and you have the makings of the trip of a lifetime! Because of the limited availability and extreme popularity of the two Guided Walks we strongly recommend booking early as you possibly can.

Day 1, Monday. United States – Christchurch – Hiking Castle Hill Basin - Punakaiki, West Coast lodgings

Day 2, Tuesday. Rainforest and Beach Hiking, Punakaiki, West Coast lodgings

Most people leave the Northern Hemisphere on a Saturday evening, arriving in Auckland early Monday morning. You'll lose a day crossing the dateline – but you get it back on the way home! It's a short flight to Christchurch on the South Island where we'll meet you.

We'll spend most of today hiking the Inland Pack Track through temperate rainforest and limestone canyons in the footsteps of the gold miners who established this trail over a century ago.

We'll then head west to Kuru Tawhiti Conservation Area in the heart of the Southern Alps. We'll take a gentle one-hour walk among the imposing limestone towers of Castle Hill, which were once a meeting place for Moa hunters of the Ngai Tahu tribe. The Dalai Lama visited this area and described it as a "spiritual center of the universe". This afternoon we'll continue on to the West Coast and the gorgeous seaside village of Punakaiki, where you'll have the rest of the afternoon to relax or walk along the beach. Depending on where you're coming from, you'll probably find jetlag is no big deal – for instance, it's a 12-hour direct overnight flight from Los Angeles to Auckland, and there's only a three-hour time difference between New Zealand and U.S. Pacific time. 

Castle Hill Basin Hike [2 miles; 1 hour; 500’ elevation gain]

We'll also follow the Truman Track to a rocky cove and check out the famous Pancake Rocks and blow holes – aptly named limestone formations that have been sculpted through relentless pounding by the Tasman Sea. The Punakaiki coastline is a magnet to marine wildlife, including little blue penguins and Hector's dolphin (the world's smallest) that can sometimes be seen close to shore.  

Hike Inland Pack Track [6 miles; 3-4 hours. 500’ elevation gain] Coastal Hiking [relatively flat]

Day 3, Wednesday. Hiking Point Elizabeth and Arts and Crafts in Hokitika, Franz Josef Lodgings We’ll travel down the coast to hike the Point Elizabeth track through native coastal forest and flax, which is a traditional resource for local Maori.

For Reservations and Information call 800-488-8483 or Reserve 24 hours a day at www.TheWorldOutdoors.com

Renowned for Extraordinary Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures since 1988 Address: 2840 Wilderness Place, Suite D Boulder, CO 80301

Fax: 303-413-0926

Email: [email protected]

Next it’s on to Hokitika, where we’ll spend a little time checking out local art galleries and pounamu-carving workshops (‘pounamu’ is Maori for jade) before carrying on to Franz Josef. After dark, we can head out to look for the eerie lights of Arachnocampa luminosa – the native glowworm – and listen for some of New Zealand’s nocturnal birdlife, such as the distinctive hoot of the Morepork owl.  

Coastal Hiking [relatively flat] Shuttle [3 hours]

Day 4, Thursday. Hiking near Franz Josef, Makarora Homestead (http://www.makarora.com ) Today we’ll visit one of the formidable West Coast glaciers. We’ll take a morning hike to the historic Tatare Tunnels, and then continue on to Franz Josef Glacier, where we walk to a great view of the terminal face. Franz Josef Glacier is an enormous river of ice, unusual in that it comes from its névé, high in the Southern Alps, and down into the rainforest near sea level. A less strenuous, but outrageously scenic alternative to today’s hike is to heli-hike on Franz Josef Glacier itself. After being fitted with crampons, ice axes and so on, you’ll board a turbine helicopter and fly towards the highest peaks of the Southern Alps, landing on the glacier at 1300 meters (4000 feet) above sea level. Led by specialist glacier guides, you’ll hike through the grand ice formations of the glacier, checking out its crevasses, seracs and tunnels – no previous experience is required! The constant movement of the glacier means every day is different, so your guides will cut steps in the ice to make the most of the conditions. At the end of your hike on the ice, you’ll take another helicopter ride out of the mountains and back to civilization. The heli-hike is extremely popular, so we offer advance reservations with the helicopter operators and guiding company. At the time of booking, or up until one month before your trip, we can reserve a space for you, or you can leave your decision until the start of your trip and your guides will get you a spot if it’s available. From Franz Josef, we’ll travel down the coast through lush rainforest and inland to Makarora, a small village bordering Mt. Aspiring National Park. We’ll stay at a family-

style homestead on the edge of the village with incredible views of the mountains from your window.   

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Hike Tatare Tunnels [2 miles; 1 hour; 500’ elevation gain] Hike Terminal Face – Franz Joseph Glacier [2 miles; 1 hour; 500’ elevation gain] Optional Activity - Heli-hike [Helicopter & Hike--Extra cost: $415]

Shuttle [3 hours]

Day 5, Friday. Hiking Diamond Lake, Crowne Plaza Hotel in Queenstown (http://www.crowneplaza.com/hotels/us/en/queenstown/zqnb s/hoteldetail?sicreative=14337651080&sicontent=0&sitracki ngid=442857209&siclientid=1863&dp=true) / 1-877-2701393) The landscape this morning changes rapidly from dense beech forests to semi-arid terrain before transforming to fantastic lake and mountain views. At Lake Wanaka, we’ll hike the Diamond Lake track, a fantastic circuit through an area carved by ice-age glaciers, with stands of native forest and shrubland. From Wanaka, it’s a short but dramatic journey over the Cardrona Saddle to Queenstown, on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. There’s no shortage of local restaurants to choose from tonight, and you’ll sleep sweetly at the lakefront  

Note: Dinner is on your own tonight, but be sure to ask your guides for recommendations. Shuttle [2.5 hours]

Day 6, Saturday. Queenstown Free Day, Crowne Plaza Hotel Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand (if not the world!) and all the comforts of civilization are packed into this tiny resort town: restaurants galore, stylish lounge bars, day spas, and boutiques. You’ll also find incredible optional activities here, including horse trekking, a gondola, fishing, winery tours, a historic steamship, bungy jumping, jet boating, skydiving, as well as some great hiking opportunities. Or you can just soak up the atmosphere at one of many local cafés. Your guides will happily share their favorite haunts and point you in the right direction for your free day today. This afternoon there’s a pre-departure briefing for the Milford Track Guided Walk, if you’ve chosen that option. 

Free day in Queenstown where there are all sorts of options, including great biking and hiking opportunities and, at an additional cost, consider bungy jumping, white water rafting, and much more.

For Reservations and Information call 800-488-8483 or Reserve 24 hours a day at www.TheWorldOutdoors.com

Renowned for Extraordinary Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures since 1988 Address: 2840 Wilderness Place, Suite D Boulder, CO 80301

Fax: 303-413-0926

Email: [email protected]

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Note: lunch and dinner is on your own Day 8, Monday. Milford Track Option - Hiking in Beech Forest, Pompolona Lodge

Days 7-10, Sunday - Wednesday. Milford Track Guided Walk OR Great Walks Discovery At the time of booking, you have the choice of the Milford Track or the Great Walks Discovery. Each is wonderful in its own way, so we'll let you decide! For both hikes you need a pack that can carry clothes for 4 days, toiletries, rain gear, warm layers, a sack lunch and water plus any personal items you want handy (camera, binoculars, etc.). You can bring a pack of your own or use one of ours at no charge. The rest of your luggage will be stored safely until you meet up with rest of the group at the end of Day 11. THE MILFORD TRACK GUIDED WALK OPTION ($399 additional) The 5-day/4-night Milford Track is one of the firstestablished and best-known walking tracks in the country. It takes in glacial peaks, a mountain pass, New Zealand’s highest waterfall and the dense rainforest of Fiordland. You’ll have four days of exercise, good food and great scenery as you walk 33 miles (53km) from Lake Te Anau to Milford Sound. Because you’re doing the guided walk, you’ll just be carrying a few essentials and a packed lunch each day, so your pack won’t be much heavier than what you’d bring on a regular day hike. Everything else is provided, including excellent meals at the lodges and on the trail, hot showers, bedding, specialist Milford Track guides, and even hairdryers in the rooms! For the first three nights, you’ll stay in comfortable mountain lodges, in four and six-bed bunk rooms with shared bathroom facilities. If you prefer your own bedroom and bathroom, contact us for the latest private room rates. On the fourth night, you’ll stay at Mitre Peak Lodge, an exclusive hotel for Milford Track Guided Walk hikers. From Queenstown, we’ll head to Lake Te Anau, stopping for lunch along the way. We take a boat to the head of the lake to the start of the Milford Track. It’s a short, easy walk to Glade House, where we stay our first night. Day 7, Sunday. Milford Track Option - Boat Ride and Short Hike, Glade House From Queenstown, we’ll head to Lake Te Anau, stopping for lunch along the way. We take a boat to the head of the lake to the start of the Milford Track. It’s a short, easy walk to Glade House, where we stay our first night . 

We start the day by crossing Clinton River, and wandering through beech forest to Hirere Falls, where we have lunch. After crossing the Prairie, the track gets a little steeper as we climb up to Pompolona Lodge. Today's highlights include the distinctive beech forest, all sorts of spectacular plants, and occasional tantalizing glimpses of the way ahead (and up!) to McKinnon Pass. 

Hike - Milford Track [8 miles; 4-5 hours. 690’ elevation gain]

Day 9, Tuesday. Milford Track Option - Hiking McKinnon Pass, Quintin Lodge Today is the most spectacular day of the Milford Track! We climb a series of switchbacks to cross McKinnon Pass and from the top the views of the Arthur Valley and the surrounding peaks are just magnificent. We’ll lunch at Pass Hut, then head down to Quintin Lodge. After some refreshments, a 90-minute round trip hike will lead us to Sutherland Falls, the fifth highest waterfall in the world. 

Hike Milford Track [9 miles; 4-5 hours; 2340’ elevation gain]

Day 10, Wednesday. Milford Track Option - Hiking out to Milford Sound, Mitre Peak Lodge This is your last day on the Milford Track. It’s 21 km (13 miles) of varied terrain, slightly downhill, with no significant climbs. The small waterfalls to be found alongside the track make for a delightful hike today. At the trailhead at Sandfly Point, you’ll be picked up for a short cruise across Milford Sound to the marina, and arrive at Mitre Peak Lodge for a night. We’ll be staying at the only hotel in the area (Milford Track hikers have exclusive use of it), but with the memories of the last few days you’ll almost regret being back near civilization! 

Hike Milford Track [13 miles; 5-6 hours. 800’ elevation gain]

Day 11, Thursday. Milford Track Option - Boat cruise on Milford Sound, Crowne Plaza Hotel in Queenstown

Hike Milford Track [1 mile; 0.5 hours; minimal elevation gain] For Reservations and Information call 800-488-8483 or Reserve 24 hours a day at www.TheWorldOutdoors.com

Renowned for Extraordinary Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures since 1988 Address: 2840 Wilderness Place, Suite D Boulder, CO 80301

Fax: 303-413-0926

Email: [email protected]

This morning we’ll enjoy a cruise to explore the full length of Milford Sound and the ship’s captain will nose the boat right up to some magnificent waterfalls that plunge into the fiord. Keep your eyes open for native New Zealand fur seals relaxing on the rocks and the chance to spot dolphins swimming alongside us. An option when you return to Milford Sound village is to take a stunning scenic helicopter flight, which will have you back in Queenstown for a free afternoonto enjoy (scenic helicopter flight option approx. US$340 per person). The rest will take the scenic journey back to Queenstown via Te Anau and this evening we’ll all meet up with those who chose the Active Great Walks Discovery to catch up on our Fiordland experiences over dinner.

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Hike to Ben Lomond

Day 8, Monday. Hike Routeburn Track, Milford Lodge This morning, we set off for our largest and perhaps most spectacular national park, Fiordland. We’ll hike part of the Routeburn Track, the first of the Great Walks you’ll experience. We hike through beech forest, sub-alpine shrublands and picturesque alpine tarns, before reaching Key Summit. Here you’ll be standing at the head of three different valleys (the Hollyford, Eglinton and Greenstone), with stunning views over the Great Divide, which separates west and east flowing rivers.

Optional Scenic Flight (weather permitting) - approximately $340 Shuttle [3.5 hours]

We’ll take a short drive through the Homer Tunnel and emerge at the top of a spectacular glacier-carved valley for a memorable descent to the shore of Milford Sound (actually it’s a fiord!). Rudyard Kipling rated Milford as the eighth natural wonder of the world and it is truly breathtaking, with steep granite walls plunging over a thousand meters to the Tasman Sea and waterfalls cascading into deep inky water.

THE GREAT WALKS DISCOVERY (no additional charge)

Tonight we’ll stay in some fairly basic accommodation in a wonderful remote location, enjoying the simple things in life.

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OR

Experience the diversity and grandeur of Fiordland National Park with your guides. Start with a memorable hike up Ben Lomond, for incredible views of Queenstown. Explore Lake Marian and Humboldt Falls along the Hollyford Valley. Then visit Milford Sound and do day walks on the Milford, Routeburn and Kepler Tracks (all Great Walks within Fiordland National Park) before finishing with a stunning cruise on Doubtful Sound. Day 7, Sunday. Gondola Ride and Hike Ben Lomond, Matai Lodge in Te Anau

After a relaxed breakfast, we’ll ride up the gondola to the top of a tree-covered rocky crag, known as Bob’s Peak, to start our alpine hike. We pass through open alpine tussockland to the Ben Lomond saddle and will be rewarded with panoramic views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by the often snow-covered Southern Alps. For those keen to press on to the top, Ben Lomond’s summit reveals views of Mt Earnslaw and Mt Aspiring, two of New Zealand’s highest peaks, and even a glimpse of Aoraki/Mt Cook on a clear day. Once back at lake level, we’ll give our legs a break and travel to Lake Te Anau, on the fringe of Fiordland National Park.

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Hike Routeburn Track

Day 9, Tuesday. Boat Ride across Milford Sound and Hiking Milford Track and Humboldt Falls, Matai Lodge in Te Anau It’s worth getting up early to take a photo of Mitre Peak – quite possibly the most photographed mountain in New Zealand – but your challenge is to find a unique angle! After breakfast, we’ll take a short boat ride across Milford Sound to hike from Sandfly Point to the Giant Gates waterfall, a spectacular section of the famed Milford Track. The forest here is lush and rich with mosses and ferns as we follow the Arthur River past Lake Ada. By hiking from the Milford Sound trailhead, we’ll enjoy the track to ourselves, which is a luxury others seldom get. After lunch, we’ll leave Milford Sound behind to hike some lesser-known tracks in eastern Fiordland, including a short hike through the rainforest to see Humboldt Falls.   

Boat ride across Milford Sound Hike the Milford Track from Sandfly Point to the Giant Gates Hike to Humboldt Falls

For Reservations and Information call 800-488-8483 or Reserve 24 hours a day at www.TheWorldOutdoors.com

Renowned for Extraordinary Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures since 1988 Address: 2840 Wilderness Place, Suite D Boulder, CO 80301

Fax: 303-413-0926

Email: [email protected]

Day 10, Wednesday. Hike Kepler Track and Overnight Cruise in Doubtful Sound, the Navigator boat

stretching across to Mt Cook and the Southern Alps – an ideal spot to soak in the hot tub!

Three Great Walks in three days... unheard of! Today, it’s the Kepler Track and we’ll begin by following the lakeshore through red and mountain beech. Interestingly, the Kepler Track differs from the Routeburn and Milford in that it didn’t actually evolve from a necessary Maori greenstone trail, but was custom-built for hiking.

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After lunch, we’ll travel over Wilmot Pass to Deep Cove where we’ll board the Fiordland Navigator for our overnight cruise of Doubtful Sound. Far larger than its northern neighbour, Milford, Doubtful Sound is an even more remote wilderness area. You’ll have the opportunity to take a kayak out on the water or hop aboard the tendercraft for a guided exploration of the fiord and in the right season you may catch a glimpse of the rare Fiordland crested penguin. Tonight you’ll sleep in a quad share room aboard the Navigator, but there is the option to upgrade to a private ensuite room, if you’d prefer.

A short distance away is Mt. Cook, named Aoraki or ‘cloud piercer’ by South Island Maori, the highest mountain in New Zealand. Directly opposite the mountain, we have a stunning and little-known day hike to the main ridge above Mueller Glacier. This area has a unique alpine environment and includes endemic flora such as the Mt Cook Lily (Ranunculus lyallii), the world’s largest buttercup. Many of our clients have said this is the best hike they’ve ever done and it’s a fine way to finish off a great trip. It’s a tough slog up, but you’ll remember the view of the glacier and the surrounding peaks forever! The weather conditions are very important in this area, as it’s a true alpine climate notorious for sudden weather shifts.

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Hike the Kepler Track

Day 11, Thursday. Cruise Doubtful Sound and Return to Queenstown, Crowne Plaza Hotel Waking up on a ship in misty, mysterious Doubtful Sound is something you have to experience to believe. This morning we’ll cruise back to Deep Cove and you may be lucky enough to spot bottlenose dolphins that inhabit this area, before making our way back to civilization.   

Cruise Doubtful Sound Shuttle [2 hours] Afternoon free [lunch on your own]

Day 12, Friday. Hiking the Sam Summers Loop Track and Visit to a Local Winery, Lake Ohau Lodge (http://www.ohau.co.nz 03-438-9885) After breakfast, we head out round Lake Wakatipu to the Mt. Crichton Scenic Reserve, where we’ll hike the Sam Summers Track. This area was mined for gold until the 1930s and there are still many relics to be seen along the way. After hiking, we’ll head to the historic picturesque village of Arrowtown for lunch before continuing on to a local winery. This region’s dry and sunny climate is ideal for grape growing and is becoming well known for producing world-class pinot noir and other quality wines. We’ll enjoy a glass or two and then head to Lake Ohau Lodge. Here we’re staying beside a beautiful alpine lake, with stunning views

Shuttle [2.5 hours]

Day 13, Saturday. Hiking Aoraki, Mt. Cook National Park, Aoraki Alpine Lodge in Mt. Cook Village (http://www.aorakialpinelodge.co.nz/ / +64 3 435 1860

If we aren’t able to do the Mueller hike, or you’d like to take it a little easier, there’s an impressive hike up to a glacial lake (complete with icebergs!) at the base of the Hooker Glacier. After hiking, we’ll relax at our lodge nestled right in the heart of Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park..  

Hike Mueller Glacier [Moderate to Challenging; 8 miles; 3-4 hours; 2900’ elevation gain] Shuttle [2 hours]

Day 14, Sunday. Mt. Cook to Christchurch, Trip Conclusion

This is the last day of your ‘Manuka’ trip and we’ll leave you refreshed and invigorated from the good food, exercise, rest, and great times you’ll have had with us in New Zealand! If you have a few more days in New Zealand, the ‘Kauri’ trip is a great addition to the ‘Manuka’ trip, where you’ll see the Maori culture, pristine beaches and geothermal areas of the North Island. 

Shuttle [3 hours]

For Reservations and Information call 800-488-8483 or Reserve 24 hours a day at www.TheWorldOutdoors.com

Renowned for Extraordinary Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures since 1988 Address: 2840 Wilderness Place, Suite D Boulder, CO 80301

Fax: 303-413-0926

Email: [email protected]

Tour Details Trip Type: Inn and Hut Trip Trip Length: 14 days/13 nights 2014 Dates: October 20-November 2, November 17-30, December 15-28, December 29-January 11, 2015 2015 Dates: January 12-25, January 26-February 8, February 23-March 8, March 9-22, March 23-April 5, October 19-November 1, November 1629, December 14-27, December 28-January 10, 2016 2016 Dates: January 11-24, January 25-February 7, February 22-March 6, March 7-20, March 21-April 3, October thru December dates to be determined Price: $6555 per person (including tax) for the tour with the Great Walks Discovery option ($825 additional for the Milford Track option) * Your tour deposit is non-refundable and not transferable to another departure date. Single Supplement: $747 for nights 1-6 and nights 10-13 of the tour regardless of Milford or Great Walks Discovery option Plus $650 per person in double occupancy for a private room on the Milford Track for nights 7-9 or $950 for a private room for a single Milford Track Option: $825 per person Heli-Hike Option: $415 per person Scenic Flight Option: Approximately $340 per person Navigator boat cabin options (on the Great Walks Discovery): Quad cabins are included in the trip price. A Double occupancy cabin is $350 per person additional and a Single occupancy cabin is $590 additional. Hiking Poles: $45 Trip Departures & Directions: To keep our group sizes down, we run this trip in two different directions around the South Island – Northbound (refers to initial direction of travel from Christchurch) and Southbound. This itinerary happens to be written up in the Northbound format. We also occasionally run this trip starting and ending in Queenstown. Whichever trip you take, you'll do all the activities we've mentioned, just in a different order. This trip is a product of many years of evolution and fine-tuning – it works well whichever way you do it! Trip Rating: Moderate Activities: hike (7 days), trek (4 days), sea kayak (optional), heli-hike (optional), scenic flight, jet boat, bungee jumping (optional), white water rafting (optional) Gateway City: Auckland, North Island, New Zealand or Christchurch, South Island, New Zealand Gateway City Transfer: From Auckland, North Island, New Zealand, you will need to arrange an air transfer to Christchurch, South Island, New Zealand for the start of the trip. Refer to "How do I book airfare for this trip?" below. Meeting Time & Place: Downtown Pick Up: If you're already in Christchurch, we'll pick you up at the Heritage Hotel (28-30 Cathedral Square, 64-3-377 9722) - very central and unmissable - by 10.30 am. This means that people who are already in town will need to make their own way to the Heritage Hotel, but it will save a lot of people from being picked up early, then sitting in the bus for an hour while we pick up everyone else. At most, a taxi to the hotel will cost US$5 - Christchurch is not a big place and the hotels are very central. Airport Pick Up: If you're flying in on the first day, most international flights arrive in Auckland early in the morning, between 5:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. You’ll clear customs and immigration quickly, and you’ll then have a short flight from Auckland to Christchurch. We'll pick you up at 11:00 a.m. at the Travel & Info Centre desk in the domestic terminal of the Christchurch airport, which is across from Air New Zealand check-in between the bookstore and the NZ Post shop.

Trip Conclusion: In Christchurch or at Christchurch Airport in time for any international flight after 4pm, or domestic flights after 2.30 p.m. Flights between Auckland and the United States usually leave early evening. Due to crossing the International Dateline, you will arrive in North America on Sunday, although you left New Zealand on Sunday evening. For Reservations and Information call 800-488-8483 or Reserve 24 hours a day at www.TheWorldOutdoors.com

Renowned for Extraordinary Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures since 1988 Address: 2840 Wilderness Place, Suite D Boulder, CO 80301

Fax: 303-413-0926

Email: [email protected]

Trip Accommodations: This trip is a backcountry wilderness trip. You’ll be staying in the highest level of accommodations available in the remote places we take you. While it features more creature comforts than some of our other trips, it’s not a scenic tour of the luxury hotels of the South Island. We prefer to stay in comfortable bed and breakfasts, lodges and apartments. You will always have your own bedroom where it's available. As there's such a variety of accommodations on this trip, some places will have ensuite bathrooms and some will have shared bathrooms -- so we may ask you to share a bathroom with other group members on occasion. Trip Fees Include: All guiding services. We have two guides per trip, a lead guide/driver, and a co-guide who is responsible for meals and accommodations. This means we can really make sure you have a great time! We operate with small groups, and we don’t hesitate to offer a second departure when our trips start getting full. Comfortable accommodation for the entire period you are with us (double occupancy). We can organize accommodations for you if you want to arrive earlier or leave later. All your meals except as listed below (in Queenstown we’ve found people prefer to check out the wide range of restaurants). We also provide mid-sized backpacks for the Milford and Hollyford Tracks if needed. All hiking as described in the itinerary, except optional extra activities, such as the heli-hike at Franz Josef. Park fees, support vehicle, and excursions specified in the itinerary Trip Fees Exclude: Airfare, items and expenses of a personal nature, alcohol, although we do like to see the look on your face when we turn up with an icebox full of beer (and juice, and water…) after a hike! Items and expenses of a personal nature. There are also many optional activities available, particularly in Queenstown, which you may like to consider an add-on to your trip. None of these activities are compulsory, nor will your trip seem less awesome if you do the cheaper or free options. Certain meals are not included (breakfast on Day 1, dinner on Day 5, breakfast, lunch and dinner on Day 6, and dinner on day 14). Guide gratuities are optional and not included in the tour price.

The Next Step… References Don’t take our word for it that The World Outdoors trips are the finest in the adventure travel industry. Ask our past guests. Call about any of our trips and we’ll be happy to refer you to someone who’s been there with us. The Best Value in Active Travel Guarantee: We commit to you that all of our trips are of the highest quality at the best value. If you find a trip of equal quality that matches our itinerary and inclusions at a lower fare within 30 days of booking your trip with us, we will gladly refund the difference. A simple guarantee that assures you of the best trip at the best fare! How do I join this trip? Call The World Outdoors at (800) 488-8483 and a Trip Consultant will reserve your space(s) or register online at www.TheWorldOutdoors.com. Your travel agent can also book your trip at no extra cost and provide other helpful assistance. Special Requests: If you have any special dietary needs or any special request that will make your trip more enjoyable, please be sure to notify your Trip Consultant or travel agent upon booking. Then Leave the Rest to Us... Before you go, we provide you with extensive pre-departure information, including your reservation payment receipt and confirmation, travel insurance application, suggestions for preparing for your trip, a packing list, information on pre- and post-trip arrangements, a guest questionnaire and a liability release agreement. Travel Protection: To make your trip with The World Outdoors even more carefree, we strongly recommend the purchase of our travel insurance plan. Offering comprehensive coverage and peace of mind, our travel insurance plan is designed to protect you in case of lost or damaged luggage, a sudden illness or death in the family, emergency medical expenses and transportation costs, and flight delays. We’d be happy to arrange travel insurance coverage for you, so contact us at (800) 488-8483 with any questions. How do I book airfare for this trip? Call our in-house travel agent, Sherry Marriner, at 800-488-8483 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Mountain Time Monday through Friday or you can email her at [email protected]. Sherry is also available to assist you with pre- and post-lodging needs. If Sherry is unavailable and your needs are urgent, please call Frosch Travel, a local travel agency, at 800-538-7461 and ask for Georgia (ext 251) or email her at [email protected]. Be sure to tell her you are traveling with The World Outdoors. Alternatively, you are welcome to book your airfare online, directly with the airline or through your personal travel agent.

General Information, Questions & Answers What weather conditions can I expect? Located 43° south latitude of the equator NZ is similar in temperature to the Pacific Northwest. Typical temperatures in the coastal areas range from sixties to mid-seventies and drop an average of 3 degrees for each 1000’ of elevation gained. In general summer weather (Nov. - March) is pleasant but be prepared to encounter some rain and cooler temperatures. How difficult is this trip.... Really? The New Zealand Hiker trips are activity-oriented trips through the South Island. We designed this trip with the intention of minimizing the driving, making the accommodations as upscale as possible, and making sure we can offer the highest standards in everything. We’ve achieved this! There’s no age limit or recommendations on this trip – it’s your call.

For Reservations and Information call 800-488-8483 or Reserve 24 hours a day at www.TheWorldOutdoors.com

Renowned for Extraordinary Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures since 1988 Address: 2840 Wilderness Place, Suite D Boulder, CO 80301

Fax: 303-413-0926

Email: [email protected]

You must have a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy yourself and you should be in the habit of doing at least some exercise. You don’t have to be young and extremely fit - age and experience is not important, but it is important that you enjoy walking and hiking. This trip is NOT a passive tour. You don’t have to have any outdoor experience at all to take to make the most of New Zealand’s incredible outdoor environment on this trip. Our staff are highly trained and very experienced outdoor guides, and we will look after you! You don’t have to carry a heavy pack. In fact we have so many options available that you don’t need to ride at all, if you’d rather hike, fish, or just laze around with a good book! All we ask is that you be energetic and in reasonable shape – not a tri-athlete – and we guarantee you’ll have an incredible time. Tour Operator: The World Outdoors operates this tour through a New Zealand-based adventure tour operator who has more than ten years of experience guiding and outfitting trips in the South Pacific. Emergency Contact Information: Our office in Boulder, Colorado is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Mountain Time 1-800488-8483. For emergencies outside of our normal business hours call Bill Marriner at 720-289-0460, Sherry Marriner at 303-915-9660, Darcie Carr at 303-595-8561 or Eric Wagner at 303-324-7795. Active New Zealand is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. New Zealand time. They can be reached from the U.S. at 011-64-274546-137 or 800-661-9073 (it will link over to the office overseas, though nobody will be awake there until about 4 p.m. EST), from outside New Zealand +64-274-546-137 or within New Zealand 274-546-137. After hours, same numbers apply. + means you need to dial the appropriate international calling code for the country you are calling from before the rest of the number. Ask local information for the correct code. Visa/Passport Information: A valid passport is the only requirement to enter New Zealand for most U.S., Canadian and European citizens. You will be issued a 3 month visitor permit on arrival. Medical Information: New Zealand is a safe country. No vaccinations are required for entry. Food and water are very safe to eat and drink. There are no wild animals or snakes to worry about in NZ. Trip members should have a personal supply of any special medications that they may need. How long are the shuttles? Shuttle times aren’t applicable on many days of this program. However, when we do have to shuttle, times will vary from one hour to up to 4 hours. What are the accommodations like? Lodging is the best available in keeping with the unique character of these special areas ... cozy bed and breakfasts, quaint lodges, and comfortable mountain huts (with hot showers!). Keep in mind, though, that this is a backcountry wilderness tour. You'll be staying in the highest level of accommodations available in the remote places we take you. While it features more creature comforts than our Multi-sport trip, it's not a scenic tour of the luxury hotels of the South Island! We prefer to stay in comfortable bed and breakfasts, lodges and apartments. You will always have your own bedroom where it's available. As there's such a variety of accommodations on this trip, some places will have ensuite bathrooms and some will have shared bathrooms -- so we may ask you to share a bathroom with other group members on occasion. Regarding accommodations… The printed itinerary does not commit to the specific accommodations used. Although we tend to use set accommodations that fit the theme of the tour, changes are always possible due to ownership/management issues, availability of superior facilities, group size, etc. Pre/Post Trip Lodging: If you are arriving the evening prior to your trip or staying additional nights after your trip’s conclusion, The World Outdoors recommends the following accommodations (prices in $NZ) : Auckland   

Airport Pensione B&B Ascot Parnell Guesthouse Bavaria Guesthouse

011-64-9-275-0533, http://www.airportbnb.co.nz 011-64-9-309-9012, http://www.ascotparnell.com 011-64-9-638-9641

Christchurch 

Holiday Inn City Centre

   

Heritage Hotel Stonehurst Turret House Eliza's Manor House

011-64-3-365-8888, http://www.hotelclub.net/hotel.reservations/Holiday_Inn_City_Centre_Christchurch.htm 011-64 9 302 1277, http://heritagehotels.co.nz/default.asp?sectionID=25 011-64 3 379-4620, http://www.stonehurst.co.nz 011-64 3 365-3900, http://www.frommers.com/destinations/christchurch/H52782.html 011 64 3 366-8584, http://www.elizas.co.nz

Queenstown For Reservations and Information call 800-488-8483 or Reserve 24 hours a day at www.TheWorldOutdoors.com

Renowned for Extraordinary Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures since 1988 Address: 2840 Wilderness Place, Suite D Boulder, CO 80301

Fax: 303-413-0926

Email: [email protected]

 

Queenstown House Melbourne House

011 64 3 442-9043, http://www.queenstownhouse.co.nz 0800-74-1444, http://dayoutconz.vianet.travel/visit/20917 ,

We're Always Improving! While the information presented here details this trip's planned activities, routes, accommodations, departure and conclusion times, we are consistently seeking new opportunities to enhance this itinerary and your experience. Our actual activities and sites may vary due to season, special events, or weather. As a result, we reserve the right to alter the itinerary since unforeseen circumstances that mandate change may arise. Naturally, we will keep you up-to-date on any changes that may affect your arrival or departure times. Carbon Offsetting: If you would like to offset the carbon https://sustainabletravelinternational.org/documents/op_carboncalcs.html

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For Reservations and Information call 800-488-8483 or Reserve 24 hours a day at www.TheWorldOutdoors.com

Renowned for Extraordinary Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures since 1988 Address: 2840 Wilderness Place, Suite D Boulder, CO 80301

Fax: 303-413-0926

Email: [email protected]

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