Tour Hollyford Highlights | Visit New Zealand

Accommodation

4 star style accommodation

Transport

Guide

Guide is included

Not included:

Insurance

Travel Insurance is not included

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Day 1 Day 1: Arrival In Queenstown
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Arrival In Queenstown

Renowned for its adrenaline-inducing activities Queenstown is synonymous with adventure. Parked on the shores of Lake Wakatipu this small alpine town is nestled below soaring vistas of The Remarkables Mountain Range.

While arguably the brightest gem in New Zealand’s crown, Queenstown offers far more than an action-packed getaway. Spend time on the Gibbston wine trail and end with a meal at Michelin star chef Josh Emett’s restaurant, Rata. Take a trip down memory lane on a 100 year old steamship the TSS Earnslaw. Soak in the scenery on your walk around the lake, or venture further afield into Fiordland National Park. Head over the hill to resort town Wanaka, or re-live scenes from Lord Of The Rings by four wheel drive. But - if you really do want that rush - head out on the Shotover Jet, dive off the Nevis Bungy, freefall on the Canyon swing or Zip line the Gondola. Just be sure it’s done on an empty stomach – don’t say we didn’t warn you!

Skyline Gondola Queenstown and Buffet Dinner

With breathtaking views across Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu, the Skyline Complex is a must-do. Catch the fully enclosed gondola to the summit for a remarkable panorama of the city surrounds. Wander the outdoor viewing decks then enjoy a gourmet buffet meal in the Stratosphere Restaurant.
Day 2 Day 2: Explore Queenstown
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Explore Queenstown

Canyoning New Zealand - Gibbston Vally Half Day Canyon Adventure included

The Gibbston Valley canyon is an awesome half-day adventure with plenty of water to play with! We meet you in downtown Queenstown for your check-in and drive about 40 minutes through the beautiful wine country out to the Gibbston Valley.

We then kit you out in all the best canyoning-specific equipment and provide a full safety briefing and demonstration from your professional and qualified guide. Just a short 10-minute walk will see you to the canyon start. You are in the canyon for approximately 2 hours, where you get to enjoy abseils of up to 10 metres beside beautiful waterfalls, natural water slides and down climbs.

You can take your own waterproof camera or leave it to us; we take pictures of your whole experience, and you can purchase them afterwards if you wish. If you take our 9am departure, this includes lunch at a selection of Queenstown restaurants.

Shotover Canyon River Jet Boat Adventure included

Riding the iconic ‘Big Red’ Jet Boat through the narrow Shotover Canyon is an exhilarating experience not to be missed. Your skilled jet boat driver pushes the boat to 85 kph, skimming across shallow water and past towering canyon walls. This 25 minute white water ride includes 360 degree spins and maximum thrills.
Day 3 Day 3: Queenstown To Te Anau
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Queenstown To Te Anau

You will be collected from your accommodation and taken to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Following the shores of Lake Wakatipu south the Remarkable mountain range towers over you as you approach township of Kingston. Then into Southland and rolling fertile farm country. Crossing the rolling tussock lands you pass through Mossburn, the deer capital of New Zealand and into Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.

Hollyford Track - Pre-Walk Briefing

Your pre-departure briefing begins at 17:30. This is a chance for you to meet your guide and fellow walkers. Your guide will "walk" you through the next three unforgettable days, it will cover the details you will need to know for your departure the following day such as what to bring, what’s provided, itinerary breakdown and departure pick-up schedule. This is also the opportunity to ask any questions and to pick up and make use of our backpacks and rain jackets if required.
Day 4 Day 4: Hollyford Track 4 Day Wilderness Journey Day 2
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Hollyford Track 4 Day Wilderness Journey Day 2

On the morning of departure from Te Anau, you will be able to enjoy a cooked or continental breakfast at 7:00am. Then meet at the hotel reception at 7:45am, ready to depart at 8:00am.

Once at the start of the track, put on your packs and start the 19.5km (12 miles) journey to Pyke Lodge. You will follow the swift, clear waters of the Hollyford River, beneath the gaze of the mighty Southern Alps, including Fiordland National Park’s two highest peaks of Mt Tutoko (2746m / 9009ft) and Mt Madeline (2537m / 8323ft).

You’ll retrace the footsteps of original Māori and early pioneer explorers, as the track undulates gently through native beech forest and beside impressive tumbling waterfalls.

At the end of the first day of your guided walk adventure, you’ll be welcomed at Pyke Lodge by your friendly lodge hosts. Here, you’ll enjoy hot showers, impressive 3 course cuisine, and the opportunity to relax with a post-dinner drink and savour the majesty of Mt Madeline while reflecting on a great first day of your guided walk experience.
Day 5 Day 5: Hollyford Track 4 Day Wilderness Journey Day 3
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Hollyford Track 4 Day Wilderness Journey Day 3

As the morning sun shines over the mountains, a delicious breakfast puts everyone on track, ready for the mystical forest, glistening Lake Alabaster and the optional crossing of one of Fiordland’s longest swing bridges.

Today you will cover 15km (9 miles) by foot and your main pack will be transported to Martins Bay Lodge while you carry a smaller day pack (provided) for your daily essentials. After an initial short walk, you’ll board a jet boat for the next part of your adventure. These powerful and safe machines provide an exciting scenic ride along the Hollyford River and down to Lake McKerrow, where the glassy waters whisk past and the mountains rise dramatically above. You may even encounter a family of Bottlenose Dolphins who regularly visit the lower river and lake. Before the ride is over even your professional jet boat driver will have a story to share.

The human history in the Hollyford Valley is as incredible as the scenery. Throughout your multi-day adventure you’ll discover the triumphs and tragedies of ill-fated Jamestown, you’ll pass ancient forests with thousand year old giants such as native Rimu, Totara and Kahikatea, and soon, the towering lowland podocarp forest transforms into a tenacious coastal garden.

Thunderous surf on the rugged West Coast is a prelude to a bay of boulders, where the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin is a seasonal visitor. Continue on, and Long Reef plays host to a rookery of native New Zealand Fur Seals, here you’ll marvel at their nimble skills in the crashing surf and relax as they laze on the rocks.

Martins Bay Lodge completes an unforgettable second day. Raise a glass to the traditional ‘Hollyford Toast’ as a wonderful way to finish your day.
Day 6 Day 6: Hollyford Track 4 Day Wilderness Journey Day 4
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Hollyford Track 4 Day Wilderness Journey Day 4

After another hearty breakfast, you’ll be ready for your final 5km (3 miles) walk, exploring Martins Bay Spit, a famous landmark separating the powerful Tasman Sea from the Hollyford Valley.

Here you will view historical sites, where Chief Tutoko and his people guarded entry into the Hollyford Valley, controlling access into and out of highly valued pounamu (greenstone/jade) gathering areas. Your guide will also highlight the plants and wildlife of this unique environment helping you to discover the diversity of this remote area. You will have the opportunity to explore the sand dunes and wander along the isolated beach at your own pace, with the Tasman Sea as your companion.

Returning to Martins Bay Lodge for lunch, your lodge hosts bid you farewell as you board the helicopter for a scenic flight along the rugged coastline and into the dramatic Milford Sound, where you’ll marvel at the grandeur of vertical granite walls rising from the sea.

Once in Milford, you’ll be met by your return shuttle host and travel along the impressive Milford Road, up through the famous Homer Tunnel, cutting through a divide of sheer granite rock, and stopping at the source of the Hollyford Valley and River before embarking on your last leg back to Te Anau and Queenstown.
Day 7 Back In Queenstown
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Back In Queenstown

Onsen Hot Pools included

Onsen Hot Pools is located high on a cliffside overlooking the magnificent Shotover River canyon, providing views over the breathtaking alpine scenery and the perfect vantage point to watch the Shotover Jet boats on the river below. The idyllic cedar-lined hot tubs have long been a highlight for Queenstown visitors and locals alike. A unique kiwi twist on a Japanese tradition, these exclusive-usee pools are filled with pure water from the surrounding mountains which are heated to approx. 38.3 degrees. The outdoor pools are partially separated by planting and are covered with a shade sail to offer some protection from the elements. Ideal for individuals or groups of up to 4 people, all guests receive towels plus a complimentary drink and snack to enjoy during your rejuvenating soak.

Earnslaw Walter Peak Barbecue Dinner included

Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience, a delicious gourmet BBQ buffet meal and a farm demonstration in a stunning lakeside setting. Take in the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and its surroundings as you cruise across the lake to the historic Walter Peak high country farm aboard the TSS Earnslaw Steamship.

Enjoy the ambience of the heart of the stately homestead while your Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant chef prepares a gourmet BBQ dinner. Your seasonal menu includes an extensive selection of local New Zealand produce, including succulent meats and a selection of delicious vegetables and salads. Complete your meal with your choice of delicious desserts, New Zealand cheeses, tea and coffee.

After dinner, watch the farm dogs in action with a sheep-herding demonstration and say hello to the other farm animals. Finally, cruise home under the southern stars and enjoy the fresh night air as the lights of Queenstown draw ever closer.
Day 8 Day 8: Farewell From New Zealand
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Farewell From New Zealand

You will be collected from your hotel and transferred to Queenstown airport to meet your flight.

8 days tour

Hollyford Highlights

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Itinerary of your trip Hollyford Highlights

Day 1: Arrival In Queenstown

Day 2: Explore Queenstown

Day 3: Queenstown To Te Anau

Day 4: Hollyford Track 4 Day Wilderness Journey Day 2

Day 5: Hollyford Track 4 Day Wilderness Journey Day 3

Day 6: Hollyford Track 4 Day Wilderness Journey Day 4

Back In Queenstown

Day 8: Farewell From New Zealand

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