New Zealand Multi-Sport

Hike, Bike and Sea Kayak the South Island

This multi-sport tour is the best way to see the wilder parts of New Zealand. We backpack in one of its most beautiful and secluded national parks, enjoy a variety of wonderful hikes, sea kayak Okarito Lagoon, Queen Charlotte and Milford Sounds, and bike through Eglinton Valley. Spend evenings in cozy mountain chalets and eclectic B&Bs while we get to know New Zealand's true character.

Days 1-4 Kaikoura-Nelson Lakes. Shuttle to the seaside town of Kaikoura where we snorkel and swim with seals. Then choose a three-day option: a hut-to-hut hiking trip in Nelson Lakes National Park, sea kayaking through the more remote reaches of Queen Charlotte Sound, or mountain biking on the legendary Queen Charlotte Track.

Days 5-6 Punakaiki-Okarito. Hike among the limestone canyons and lush rainforest of the Inland Pack Track. Options include a boat ride among the dolphins or a canoe trip up the Pororari River. After driving down the scenic and wild west coast, sea kayak in Okarito Lagoon, home to New Zealand's only white heron colony. Weather permitting, take a heli-hike on the glaciers which run from mountains to sea.

Days 7-9 Franz Josef-Queenstown. Choose from two excellent hiking options at Franz Josef Glacier. It's then on to the village of Makarora, next to Mount Aspiring National Park. Transfer to Queenstown, stopping en route for an optional bungee jump. On your free day, hike, mountain bike, fish, water ski, riversurf, skydive, or raft raging whitewater.

Days 10-11 Routeburn Track-Milford Sound. Cycle through the legendary Eglinton Valley and walk part of the famous Routeburn Track, with unbelievable views of the surrounding peaks. Then enjoy a 3000-foot downhill ride into Milford Sound. Explore its massive, glacier-carved slopes and waterfalls in sea kayaks, opt to cycle Homer Saddle, or simply absorb the scenery.

Days 12-14 Te Anau-Mount Cook-Christchurch. Mountain bike around Te Anau or sleep in! Then transfer to Lake Pukaki, where we stay on a working high country sheep farm. A challenging hike up the main ridge of Mount Cook above Mueller Glacier provides unforgettable views. The final evening is spent with a traditional kiwi roast dinner before departing in the morning for Christchurch.