Hollyford Track
“Two tectonic plates collide forming an island, then a spectacular mountain range.
The ice age descends across the landmass which spends the next two million years being carved and sculpted. Then the ice recedes and is replaced by podocarp and beech forests.
Birds arrive and the valleys are trampled by the huge flightless bird, the moa, whose steps add a thumping bass note to a constant orchestra of birdsong. Kakapo, kiwi, takahe and bellbird add their own notes and the noise is huge.”
Hollyford Track is one of New Zealand's most famous guided walks. This internationally recognised New Zealand trek is a hike experience of a lifetime. The walk itinerary includes hiking from spectacular alpine mountains to rugged coast-line.
ANDREAS
New Zealand
ANDREAS
New Zealand
- Pre Departure briefing
- Use of backpacks and rain jackets
- Specialist experienced guide
- Accommodation in well appointed private lodges with twin bunk rooms
- All meals on the track
- Bedding, towels, soap, shampoo and hairdryers
- Wilderness jet boat journey
- Amazing scenic helicopter flight to Milford Sound
- Return transport to Queenstown and Te Anau (Queenstown transport not available if you choose to overnight in Milford or Te Anau)
- Use of backpacks and rain jackets if required.
Please contact us or complete our online enquiry form to receive further information on this tour or to check availability on your preferred date of travel.
- Buses connect from Auckland and Paihia either prior to departure or at the end of your voyage.
- Bring a sleeping bag (alternative bedding can be arranged by request for an additional $10).
- Trip is only suitable for people with an adventurous attitude and those willing to participate as part of a team.
YOUR TOUR ITINERARY
Your pre departure briefing begins at 6 pm on the night before your walk begins. This is a chance for you to meet your guide and fellow walkers. Your guide will "walk" you through the next three unforgettable days, on the Hollyford Track. Backpacks will be provided at this briefing to those who require them. The pre departure briefing takes place at R & R Sports Queenstown (corner of Camp & Shotover streets) or at The Luxmore Hotel if staying in Te Anau.
Pyke River Lodge, Glow Worms
Depart Queenstown by 7am, travel along side the beautiful Lake Wakatipu and on to Te Anau. Those starting in Te Anau join the trip at 9 am. After a brief stop, depart for the Hollyford Valley and travel through the majestic Eglington Valley to the start of the Track in the Hollyford Valley visiting Gunn's Camp museum on the way. Then re-trace the footsteps of early explorers along the Hollyford River to Pyke River Lodge. As the Track undulates gently through native beech forest and beside tumbling waterfalls enjoy interesting historical tales and interpretation of the forest and bird life. In the evening you can visit our nearby glow-worm colony.
Walking Distance: Approx 17km (12miles).
Lakes, Jet Boating, 1000 Year Old Trees and Wildlife Experience
Begin your day with a short walk to Lake Alabaster and learn of the history and geology of the area whilst in the midst of stunning surroundings. Cross Fiordland's longest swing bridge and then enjoy a captivating jet boat journey down the Hollyford River and across Lake McKerrow to the historic site of Jamestown, the intended capital of the South Island in the late 19th century. Walk through the ancient Podocarp forest (New Zealand native pines) with huge Rimu, Totara and Kahikatea trees wrapped in massive Rata vines. Then visit the fur seal colony at Long Reef on the wild West Coast. You may see the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin. Spend the night at Martins Bay Lodge.
Walking Distance: Approx 12km (7miles).
Martins Bay Beach and Coastline /Scenic Flight to Milford Sound
Travel by jet boat to the beach and explore the seven kilometre Martins Bay Beach, sand dunes and lagoon. Learn about its history and its plant, sea and bird life. Return to Martins Bay Lodge and then enjoy a scenic flight to Milford Sound, with views of the Track route, Hollyford Valley and Mt Tutoko, Fiordland's highest peak. Board your coach for your return journey to Queenstown or Te Anau with stops of interest along the way. Arrive back in Te Anau by 5 pm and Queenstown by approximately 7.30 pm.
There is an option at additional cost to cruise Milford Sound if you wish. Walking Distance: Approx 8 km (5 miles).
Lion departs 2pm on Saturday, Monday and Wednesday. Arrives approx midday on the last day.
Departing Auckland
2012 |
OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER |
23, 25, 27, 29, 31 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 25, 27, 29, 31 |
2013 |
JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL |
2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18 |
Please contact us or complete our online enquiry form to receive further information on this tour or to check availability on your preferred date of travel.