New Zealand has some remarkable walking trails, or ‘tramps’ as the Kiwis call them. Most thread their way through national parks and can either be walked independently or with a guide to lead the way and help decipher the topography and interpret the cultural legacies of the surroundings. On many trails you can stay at luxury lodges, where good food and wine will enhance the experience. Bridge & Wickers can easily incorporate any of these trails – which last from two to five days – as part of a broader holiday in New Zealand.
The Milford Track is New Zealand’s most famous walk and the best way to experience the deeply indented fjords, the mountains, lakes, rivers and silent forests of the southwest corner. No matter whether you prefer to travel in company or independently, you need to book well in advance as there is an upper limit to the number of people allowed on this popular trail at any one time.
The Abel Tasman track is a celebration of the gorgeous coastal scenery of the northern corner or the South Island. From the arty town of Nelson you’ll enjoy beautiful bays, sandy beaches, forests and granite headlands, with time for swimming and sunbathing.
Another richly maritime itinerary, through the watery inlets and native bush of the Marlborough Sounds at the northern tip of South Island, is the Queen Charlotte track, a four day guided trip which can also include a day or two of sea kayaking.
For one of the softest options we would recommend the Hollyford Track which combines stays in comfortable Lodges, with much of the walking being along river banks. You’ll start in the shadow of snow capped mountains and glaciers, past lakes and waterfalls and eventually reach the sea and the surf. The 3 day guided trip with Bridge & Wickers also includes a scenic flight to Milford Sound and an exhilarating jetboat ride.
One of the newest official trails is the Kaikoura Wilderness Walk, a three day escorted trail along the east coast of South Island, combining valleys and meadows with dramatic views from the ridges. It’s just a two day walk, with the night spent at the remote Shearwater Lodge, built on stilts to raise the decks to the same level as the tree line.
To view all of Bridge & Wickers’ walking holdiays in New Zealand click here.