Hiking and Biking Across New Zealand’s South Island

Take on the ultimate adventure across the rugged Southern Alps and wild West Coast of New Zealand; a real exploration of this pristine wilderness. From snow-capped towering peaks to exhilarating rivers, rugged single tracks and clean isolated surf breaks, this journey promises to deliver an array of next-level experiences for the adventurous traveller.

Owen River Lodge

Arriving at Owen River Lodge, you’ll meet the team, enjoy a hearty dinner and pour over the itinerary for the next few days of super-charged activities. Begin with a day of mountain biking, conquering New Zealand's premier backcountry single track, where you will shred through majestic native forest, open tussock tops and the forgotten valleys of the Lyell Range and Mokihinui River. Or, head to hidden trails in the epic Paparoa National Park, testing yourself on a character-building ascent and swooping downhill descents. This incredible backcountry single track was created in partnership with the West Coast, the Department of Conservation and the area’s indigenous Māori tribe, Ngāti Waewae.

Aoraki National Park

Travel along the Main Divide to Aoraki National Park and Sir Edmund Hillary’s Everest training ground, the Southern Alps. Touch down at the ice plateau in the heart of the inaccessible Adams’ Wilderness for lunch, before hiking the Tasman Glacier, whilst en-route to your next base, Minaret Station.

Landsborough River

The adventure continues as you rise early for a day of pack-rafting. Hidden away in a remote zone at the heart of the Haast Wilderness, is the Landsborough River. Kayak through untouched country, past hanging glaciers and through dense rainforests. Typically, a multi-day trip, you’ll experience what the river has to offer in a single action-packed day. Here, your expert team will show you the lines with an emphasis on safety. Enjoy an exquisite riverside lunch, before heading downstream for more advanced white-water rafting. From here, head to The Lindis, where you will be within striking distance of the lower half of the South Island, where year-round southerly swells originate from the depths of the Southern Ocean, producing quality waves. With many breaks only accessible by air, enjoy a few days of surfing in ultimate seclusion.