In summary
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Sports
-
Duration23 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationOceania / New Zealand
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions16750.16 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
A truly untamed land in the heart of the Pacific, New Zealand owes its renown to the tumultuous activity of its tectonic plates. The volcanoes of the North Island and the Alps of the South Island bear witness to this geological activity. This microcosm, largely isolated from the rest of the world, boasts exceptional flora and fauna. We begin our journey in the heart of the North Island, home to rainforests, smoking volcanoes, geysers, and bubbling hot springs. From the Lake Taupo region, where steaming vapors and glowing red cliffs are part of the landscape, we travel towards the capital, Wellington, located at the southern tip of the island. After crossing the Cook Strait, we explore the South Island. This island is characterized by glaciers and the eternal snows of the New Zealand Alps, which plunge into the Pacific Ocean, creating idyllic landscapes carved by fjords. We hike along the sandy coast of Abel Tasman National Park and cross the sublime Marlborough Sounds by boat. Here, we invite you to discover a corner of the world where national parks flourish, highways don't exist, and exploring the country feels like strolling through a giant farm.
The highlights
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Hiking in Tongariro, Abel Tasman, Paparoa, Westland and Fjordland parks
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Discover Milford Sound and Queen Charlotte Sound by boat
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2 nights in the cities of Wellington and Wanaka which we love.
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Photos
Sixtine - verified review - january 2024
Sixtine - verified review - january 2024
Sixtine - verified review - january 2024
Sixtine - verified review - january 2024
Sixtine - verified review - january 2024
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
For those wishing to hike for 4 to 5 hours a day, covering an elevation gain of around 600m on trails. You hike occasionally and are in good physical condition.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 3h30
- Average distance/day: 9 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 308 m
- Average daily descent: 285 m
Management
During this stay, a supervisor will be present to guide and assist you.
Band :
1 supervisor for 1 to 10 people
Languages spoken:
French
French
Supervisor
Supervisor
You will be accompanied by a French-speaking driver-guide. Our guides in New Zealand have a particularly heavy workload, as in addition to leading the group, they drive and are also responsible for many meals (shopping, preparation). Therefore, they would greatly appreciate any participation and assistance with their tasks, such as helping to load the minibus or preparing picnics. This is what often happens spontaneously in our groups, but it doesn't hurt to let us know so you can be prepared.
Program
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Flight to New Zealand
- Transportation Plane - 24h - 19093kmper day
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Departure from Paris and flight to the antipodes. Overnight on board.Days 1 to 2 -
Auckland
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Arrival in Auckland. Welcome and transfer to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, a short city tour may be possible. In the evening, dinner at a restaurant with the guide. The city, with its many suburbs, has over a million inhabitants and is the largest city in New Zealand. It sprawls generously on a narrow strip of land between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea. More than 60 extinct volcanic cones and craters characterize the landscape, while an endless procession of sailboats in the harbor is typical of the region's relaxed pace of life. Auckland was the capital very briefly until 1865 and today it is the economic center of New Zealand. Airport/hotel transfer included: this is a private transfer with, where possible, a French-speaking guide. Accommodation will only be available in the early afternoon that day, but a concierge service will be available at the hotel.Day 3 -
Rotorua Geothermal Region
- Transportation Minibus - 03h30 - 230km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 10 km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today, we leave Auckland and travel across the Waikato region to Rotorua, the geothermal and cultural heart of New Zealand. We'll explore this geothermal city, which thrives on the sounds of erupting geysers and bubbling hot springs. We'll hike through Rotorua's redwood forest and take a walk around Tikitapu Lake (Blue Lake), passing through a variety of landscapes, including exotic and native trees and bushland. We'll admire the scenery from the viewpoints overlooking Tikitapu and Rotokakahi Lakes. Depending on the weather, swimming may be possible. In the evening, we'll attend a Māori cultural performance, where we'll get a glimpse into Māori dance and culture and enjoy a traditional Māori hangi meal, cooked in an earth oven. Today, the guide will prepare the picnic lunch; your help would be greatly appreciated.Day 4 -
Wai O Tapu - Huka Falls - Lake Taupo - Tongariro
- Transportation Minibus - 02h30 - 180km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 10 km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today we leave Rotorua. We visit Wai Otapu, the most colorful of New Zealand's geothermal parks. The unique features of this place include the world-famous "Champagne Pool" natural color springs, bubbling mud, steaming ground, sweeping landscapes, and enormous volcanic craters. Next stop: Huka Falls and Lake Taupo. Craters, sulfur, glowing red cliffs, scalding steam, and bubbling pools are all part of the scenery. Then it's on to Tongariro National Park! Today, the guide will prepare a picnic lunch; your help would be greatly appreciated.Day 5 -
Hiking around the volcanoes in Tongariro National Park
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 10 km
- Positive elevation gain 550 m
- Negative elevation 550 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Depending on the weather and the group's fitness level, our guide will lead you today on the Tama Lakes Trail to Taranaki Falls in the heart of Tongariro National Park. On a clear day, the symmetrical cone of Mount Ngauruhoe and the ancient eroded mountains of Tongariro and Pukekaikiore are visible. The hike begins in a rolling landscape of alpine meadows, along a well-marked trail, before climbing steeply to a viewpoint overlooking the upper lake (1,440 meters). Optional: It is possible to undertake the "Tongariro Crossing," a much more challenging hike (19.4 km, 7-8 hours). For approximately $40, round-trip transportation can be arranged for independent hikers wishing to complete this crossing. The trail is very well-marked, and transfers are door-to-door. Details can be discussed with the guide on site.Day 6 -
Road to Wellington - Mount Victoria
- Transportation Minibus - 05h - 330km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We're heading to Wellington, the country's capital, lined here and there with magnificent Victorian houses in every color. We depart from the central plateau of the North Island, traversing a long stretch of farmland before arriving on Wellington's north coast with a view of Kapiti Island. Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is well known for its wind, its vibrant café and restaurant scene, its museums, and its galleries. We'll take a walk up Mount Victoria, where we'll enjoy a panoramic view of the city, the harbor, the hills, and, on a clear day, the northern tip of the South Island.Day 7 -
Wellington, free day.
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Free day in Wellington to enjoy this beautiful port city and its many attractions, such as the famous Te Papa Museum ("the place of this land's treasures"), the National Museum of New Zealand dedicated to Māori culture, and the country's natural wonders. Meals at your own expense. Note: According to New Zealand regulations, the guide is entitled to a day off on this day.Day 8 -
Wellington - Crossing the Cook Strait - Picton Fishing Port
- Transportation Ferry - 03h30
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 1h
- Distance 5 km
- Positive elevation gain 350 m
- Negative elevation 350 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
In the morning, we'll take a walk in Wrights Hills, which offers spectacular views of the city and the harbor (this walk will be chosen based on the clients' interests and the ferry schedule). Then we'll depart by ferry for the South Island. The 3.5-hour journey is one of the most scenic crossings in the world. Leaving Wellington behind, we'll travel through the Marlborough Fjords to Picton, the gateway to the South Island. We'll visit the charming little fishing port of Picton, once known for whaling. Today, the guide will prepare a picnic lunch; your help would be greatly appreciated.Day 9 -
Queen Charlotte National Park
- Transportation Boat - 02h
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 10 km
- Positive elevation gain 650 m
- Negative elevation 650 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
A day trip to the heart of Queen Charlotte National Park. A boat takes us deep into the fjords to Ship Cove. We observe the wildlife of this region and its many seabirds. We are captivated by the contrast of colors, the old-growth forest and the blue of the Pacific Ocean. Hike to Endeavour Inlet and stop at Furneaux Lodge before returning to Picton. Today, the guide prepares breakfast and a picnic lunch; your help would be greatly appreciated.Day 10 -
Nelson - Abel Tasman National Park (Motueka)
- Transportation Car - 02h30 - 155km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 5 km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today, we take the scenic Queen Charlotte Road before descending to the Pelorus Bridge for a lovely riverside walk. Further on, we stroll to Botanic Hill for its magnificent views over the Nelson and Tasman region. Upon arrival in Nelson, New Zealand's sunniest city, we'll have free time to explore the city, including the small workshop of jeweler Jens Hansen, made famous by the ring from Tolkien's trilogy. Today, the guide will prepare breakfast and a picnic lunch; your help would be greatly appreciated.Day 11 -
Abel Tasman National Park - Anchorage Bay - Marahau
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 10 km
- Positive elevation gain 400 m
- Negative elevation 400 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We dedicate our day to the heart of the magnificent Abel Tasman National Park, a blend of pristine rainforests, golden sand beaches, and turquoise coves. A water taxi takes us to the starting point of the hike at Anchorage Bay, passing by Adele Island, home to a few seals. We walk along the magical coastline, past peaceful bays and sparkling waters teeming with wildlife, all the way to Marahau. We enjoy a swim in the clear waters of the Tasman Sea. Today, the guide will prepare breakfast and a picnic lunch; your help would be greatly appreciated.Day 12 -
Paparoa National Park - Pancake Rocks Cliffs - Brunner Lake
- Transportation 05h30 - 406km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 10 km
- Positive elevation gain 100 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We depart early this morning for a long drive, punctuated by frequent stops and walks (these may be modified to suit driving and weather conditions). We head towards the West Coast. Rugged, green, and wild, the West Coast was one of the busiest and wealthiest regions in the 19th century, when gold attracted men from all over the world. Weather permitting, we'll take a short walk near Westport to Cape Foulwind to observe a large colony of New Zealand fur seals before heading to the Pancake Rocks of Punakaiki. These bizarrely shaped rocks belong to the spectacular Paparoa National Park, with its wide array of geological wonders such as gorges, limestone caves, and the world's southernmost palm forest (Nikau Palm). We'll walk through its unusual rock formations before heading inland to Lake Brunner. Today the guide is preparing breakfast and a picnic lunch; your help would be greatly appreciated.Day 13 -
The Glaciers region of Westland National Park
- Transportation 03h30 - 240km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 1h
- Distance 5 km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today we travel along the west coast. This part of New Zealand is known for its fantastic rugged coastline, large rivers, gold and coal mining, and heavy rainfall. As we head towards the towns of Franz Josef and Fox, you'll see that the rainforest here is dense and covered in moss and algae. Due to massive flooding, landslides, and glacial retreat, it's no longer possible to walk to the glaciers. Optional: helicopter flight to the glacier – ask the guide locally (additional cost). We'll take a walk around Mirror Lake and Lake Matheson before heading to Haast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its spectacular natural scenery. Today, the guide will prepare the picnic lunch; your help would be greatly appreciated.Day 14 -
Glacial Lake Matheson - Ship Creek - Wanaka
- Transportation 03h - 265km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 10 km
- Positive elevation gain 200 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
An early morning hike takes us to Matheson Glacier Lake, also known as "Mirror Lake," where the entire alpine landscape is reflected in its clear waters. We then travel along a stunning road offering numerous panoramic views of the coast, turquoise lakes, and mountains, all the way to Wanaka. Along the way, we stop for a walk at Ship Creek and cross the Haast Pass, the gateway to the lake district. Today, the guide will prepare lunch and dinner; your help would be greatly appreciated.Day 15 -
Wanaka, Free day.
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Wanaka is a charming little town offering a wide range of outdoor activities such as rafting, paragliding, paddleboarding, jet boating… and for those less adventurous, simply strolling or enjoying the beach. (Optional activities are available for an additional fee payable locally). Meals are not included. Note: In accordance with New Zealand regulations, the guide is required to have a day off on this day.Day 16 -
Wanaka - Hiking on Mount Roy or Diamond Lake - Queenstown
- Transportation 01h - 70km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 10 km
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Negative elevation 500 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We depart in the morning for a hike to Diamond Lake or Mount Roy (1580 meters) to enjoy a panoramic view of the turquoise Lake Wanaka, framed by mountains. En route, we visit the historic town of Arrowtown, where we take a stroll through the former Chinese gold mining settlement. Finally, we arrive in Queenstown, the popular and picturesque ski resort on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Today, the guide prepares lunch and dinner; your assistance would be greatly appreciated.Day 17 -
Hike to Ben Lomond - Te Anau
- Transportation 05h - 340km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 10 km
- Positive elevation gain 850 m
- Negative elevation 850 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The morning is dedicated to hiking. We take the cable car to Bobs Peak, and from the summit of Ben Lomond (1750 meters), we enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding area. We continue on to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Today, the guide prepares lunch and dinner; your help would be greatly appreciated.Day 18 -
Fiordland National Park - Milford Sound Cruise
- Transportation 03h30 - 240km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The spectacular Milford Road winds its way through a majestic mountain landscape. At the Homer Tunnel, we might be lucky enough to spot Keas, the only mountain parrots in the world. Upon arrival at Milford Sound, we'll have time to fully appreciate the atmosphere and tranquility of the place from a cruise boat. We'll sail almost to the Tasman Sea, and with a bit of luck, we might see fur seals, penguins, or dolphins. We'll enjoy the wild scenery, surrounded by near-vertical rock faces like Mitre Peak and breathtaking waterfalls. Today, the guide will prepare dinner; your help would be greatly appreciated.Day 19 -
Dunedin
- Transportation 04h - 320km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 5 km
- Positive elevation gain 400 m
- Negative elevation 400 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Dunedin, the largest city on the South Island, effortlessly blends the country's past, present, and future. While other cities seem to have plunged headlong into the new culture of glass and metal architectural design, Dunedin has chosen to pause, catch its breath, and preserve its Victorian heritage forever. Dunedin is the Celtic name for Edinburgh. The city itself boasts several beautiful rhododendron gardens and the steepest road in the world. With a 35% gradient, this will be one of our walks... short but steep. Today, the guide will be preparing the picnic lunch; your help would be greatly appreciated.Day 20 -
Moeraki Boulders - Christchurch
- Transportation 06h - 420km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today, we'll travel up the coast, stopping for a walk to the Moeraki Boulders (tide permitting). We'll then continue along the coast to Christchurch, the largest city in the South Islands and our final destination. This city has had to rebuild itself after several major earthquakes destroyed some of its heritage buildings. Today, the guide will prepare our picnic lunch; your help would be greatly appreciated.Day 21 -
Christchurch - Return Flight
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Depending on your departure time, last-minute shopping in Christchurch. Transfer to the airport and return flight. Meals at your own expenseDay 22 -
Arrival in Paris
- Transportation Plane - 23h - 19093km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Return flight and arrival in Paris.Day 23
Accommodation
- Days 1 to 22
We've chosen to showcase several types of accommodation available in New Zealand, prioritizing comfort (so we've avoided camping and tent camping). For most of the trip, you'll stay in hotels and motels, with some nights in comfortable, simple hostels, based on double occupancy with en-suite facilities. You may occasionally share an apartment and bathroom with other participants, but your room will still be based on double occupancy. Most accommodations offer a washing machine and dryer for guests at a low cost, allowing you to do laundry during your trip and pack lighter.
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Price details
The price includes
- Accommodation in double rooms in hotels, motels and hostels
- Guided by a local French-speaking driver-guide
- Regular flights departing from Paris (departures from other French cities available upon request and subject to availability)
- Air taxes
- Minibus transport
- The ferry crossing between the two islands
- The water taxi at Abel Tasman
- Full board except for the meals indicated in the day-by-day itinerary.
- Entrances to national parks
The price does not include
- Cost of the ETA: 12NZD if you apply via the immigration website or 9NZD via the mobile application.
- Cost of the IVL tourist tax: 35NZD per person.
- Personal expenses, drinks and tips
- A maximum of 6 free meals as indicated in the daily itinerary (allow approximately 50 NZD per meal)
Options
- Helicopter flight - Helicopter flight over the Franz Josef Glacier : CHF164.66 / person
- Helicopter flight - Helicopter tour over Fox Glacier : CHF201.26 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- Hat, scarf, or cap
- Good sunglasses
- Bathroom toiletry bag
- Bath towel
- Sunscreen cream (face and lips)
- Pocket knife, preferably a multi-purpose one
- Mosquito repellent cream (to be purchased locally)
- Walking sticks for hiking (optional)
- Gourd
Clothing to bring
It is recommended to have sturdy walking shoes, a refillable water bottle, and waterproof gear, as well as hats, beanies, and warm gloves. Trails in New Zealand traverse rugged mountains and volcanic terrain, marshes, forests, beaches, and bushland. Even in summer, snow can appear on mountain passes. The paths can be uneven and narrow in places. Walkers should have sure footing and be able to carry a daypack containing a picnic, jackets, and hats. While trekking, you may experience all four seasons! It is therefore wise to pack clothing with several light or warmer layers that can be added as needed. Laundry facilities are available on average every four days.
Clothing, from head to toe:
- Lightweight walking shoes
- Lightweight shoes (tennis shoes) or walking sandals
Make sure to thoroughly clean your shoes (both pairs) before leaving France to get through customs more quickly. Otherwise, you will be required to do so at customs upon arrival due to very strict food regulations (a NZD 400 fine applies).
- Warm socks
- Underwear
- Swimsuit
- Canvas trousers
- Waterproof trousers, K-Way type
- Shorts or Bermuda shorts
- T-shirts
- Warm shirt in wool or carline
- Long-sleeved cotton shirt
- Warm sweater or fleece
- Mountain jacket (for the coldest evenings)
- Waterproof windbreaker
They traveled with us
Discover the authentic experiences of our travelers
4/5
(2 reviews)
Reviews displayed in reverse chronological order
S
Sixtine
- 29 ans
100% Verified Reviews: Only travelers who have booked with us can leave a review. All reviews are subject to human moderation. Reviews that do not comply with the moderation rules are rejected.
january 2024
In a group
100% Verified Reviews: Only travelers who have booked with us can leave a review. All reviews are subject to human moderation. Reviews that do not comply with the moderation rules are rejected.
Translated from French
An extraordinary trip to the other side of the world. Diverse landscapes including volcanoes, seas, ocean, mountains, and fjords. Between the North and South Islands. Memorable boat trips. Mostly beautiful weather, with the expected colder conditions in the far south. Very accessible hikes. I can't wait to go back. All the accommodations were very luxurious. But perhaps sometimes at the expense of being far from towns, making it difficult to go for a walk in the evening once the van was parked.
M
Maïté
100% Verified Reviews: Only travelers who have booked with us can leave a review. All reviews are subject to human moderation. Reviews that do not comply with the moderation rules are rejected.
january 2024
In a group
100% Verified Reviews: Only travelers who have booked with us can leave a review. All reviews are subject to human moderation. Reviews that do not comply with the moderation rules are rejected.
Decathlon Travel Partner
The Paulin team
4.4/5
(1440 reviews)
• 453 stays
For over 30 years, our local partner has been designing adventure walking trips around the world. Specializing in small-group treks, they cater to both casual hikers and seasoned trekkers seeking unspoiled natural environments and a return to the essentials. Their key strength? They own their own agencies in over 30 countries, guaranteeing complete trip creation from start to finish, without intermediaries. This direct, on-the-ground expertise ensures memorable active experiences and total freedom amidst breathtaking landscapes.
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