South Pacific >
THE SOUNDS OF NEW ZEALAND
 
Finally, a project in the making for years
has now become reality: Ecosummer Expeditions releases its first
ever trip to New Zealand’s South Island. Embark on an unparalleled
and never before offered combination of sea kayaking in the undoubtedly
dramatic landscape of Doubtful Sound and in the stunningly picturesque
archipelago of Marlborough Sound, complemented by great alpine
and coastal hiking in the Arthur’s Pass and Kahurangi National
Parks. Kayak & Hike, Kiwi-style!
 day-by-day
itinerary
We have chosen the South over the North Island of New Zealand
not only for its slower pace and its lesser population but mainly
for its world-class sea kayaking possibilities and the strikingly
beautiful Alps. The South Island is of great diversity and we
selected amazing natural places to cover most of what can be packed
into only two weeks. We focused on areas off the beaten path,
providing the island’s best nature experience possible.
From New Zealand’s outdoor adventure hub Queenstown, we
will be heading to Fiordland National Park within Te Wahipounamo
World Heritage Site to discover the Tasman Sea’s most impressive
coastlines during a three day excursion by sea kayak into the
incredible Doubtful Sound. Unique, raw and powerful,
this quiet and remote wilderness is home to penguins, seals and
occasionally bottlenose dolphins. We take in vistas of steep,
cascading cliffs scarred by typical tree avalanches, pristine
inlets and snow-dipped peaks as a fascinating backdrop.
The following days will be spent hiking, walking and visiting
some of the most scenic areas of the South Island: From glaciated
mountains to lush rainforest bordering white sandy beaches. New
Zealand’s Alps will provide spectacular alpine grandeur
during hiking in Arthur’s Pass National Park
before crossing the alpine fault and heading for the roaring seas
of the West Coast. A walk along a limestone valley, a visit to
Punakaiki’s “pancake rocks” and the surf pounding
against a coast dotted with palm trees are just some of the highlights
between Greymouth and Karamea, starting point of a hike on the
famous Heaphy Track in Kahurangi National Park.
Picton will serve as our marine gateway to explore the idyllic
Marlborough Sound for the coming three days.
We indulge in exploring delightful coves, bays and inlets with
our sea kayaks, paddle around bush-clad shorelines and try to
spot the endangered South Island saddleback and South Island robin
before heading to Blenheim to catch our return flights home.
This itinerary - exclusive to Ecosummer Expeditions - is unlike
any of our trips: Except for the two, fully catered multi-day
sea kayaking outings, a small, private bus of a local tour operator
will be used for travel between island destinations. To optimize
this itinerary, one inland flight has also been added. Enjoy cozy
fixed roof accommodation & daily breakfast, except while kayaking
when you will be sleeping in tents. You are guided by a local
and accompanied by an experienced Ecosummer Expeditions guide.
Two different outfitters will be providing their intimate knowledge
as well as their gear during kayaking in Doubtful and Marlborough
Sounds. We have set aside two dates during New Zealand’s
colourful autumn, just outside of peak season. Our groups will
be very small with a maximum of 8 guests plus 2 guides. Please
contact us for further information and a detailed itinerary.
Come with us and experience the legendary
land of the Maori! NAU MAI!
First trip: Starts in 2008, dates TBA
Price:TBA
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