New Zealand Trails - The Trip of Your Lifetime!

New Zealand Trails - The Trip of Your Lifetime!

New Zealand Trails - The Trip of Your Lifetime!
5
Multi-day Tours • Bike Tours • Eco Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Private Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours
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7:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
About
The real New Zealand hiking experience in comfort & style! We run multi-day hiking tours and easy-going active adventures.
Queenstown, New Zealand

Awards
Travelers' Choice
2023
Travelers talk about
(18 reviews)
(17 reviews)
(15 reviews)
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions

5.0
144 reviews
Excellent
142
Very good
1
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
1

Richard F
Hook, UK1 contribution
Feb 2020
North Island New Zealand was lovely, even more so when you start to dig below the surface. New Zealand Trails made that happen, as the scenery we saw came alive with the history of the people that made it.
The tour was expensive if you consider it at a daily rate, but the only cash I spent during the trip was on a couple of drinks. Food was as good as it was copious, there was always a snack and fruit as we traveled between locations prior to walking, paddling, chatting, then more walking.
The Tongariro hike was tough, the hardest walk I've done, and we had to turn back at the summit due to a fatality on the path earlier. It was probably the highlight of the five days, although each day was so different it's difficult to isolate one event.
I'm planning on a South Island Tour for my next visit.
Thanks New Zealand Trails, you helped to bring New Zealand alive for me.
Written March 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It's great you felt as though you really got to experience New Zealand and I'm delighted your guides were able to make the scenery and culture come alive for you along the way! Food and hospitality is a big part of Kiwi culture so it makes us happy to hear you were well fed and catered for at all times. We look forward to seeing you back down here to explore our South Island on your next visit. Cheers Jodi
Written July 1, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Tammy M
8 contributions
Mar 2020
There was no part of this trip (Pure South 8 day) that I didn't love. The staff in the office before was amazing, informative and I really felt like they wanted to ensure I had my best vacation. The guides on the trip (Hayley and Finn) were absolutely AMAZING!! From herding our group of 12 cats from one location to another, to the stories they told, to the food they provided... they were personable, fun, attentive, and downright amazing. The trip itself was beyond imagination. The itinerary had us in some of the great places on the South Island and doing things that I will never forget -- kayaking in Milford Sound, the bush plane ride into Siberia Valley, hiking on Tasman Glacier, and swimming with Hector's Dolphins... just to name a few. Every day was a new adventure and I truly hated to see it end. The accommodations were good to excellent, the food was impeccable and even the ability to do things a little different than the group was very welcome (ie: hiking at a slower pace, or taking off for the night to do a Stargazing tour at Mt. Cook). Thank you to everyone at New Zealand Trails for such a superb trip!
Written March 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Tammy How great to hear that you had an amazing time on your trip and that you loved every day of it! We want our guests to experience the very best of New Zealand and Kiwi hospitality, and I'm sure Hayley and Finn will love reading about how they made that happen for you. Mt Cook is a truly breathtaking place and I'm delighted you were able to experience it both in the day and at night, under the stars. Cheers Jodi
Written June 29, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Mayo F
2 contributions
Mar 2020
I did quite a bit of research on your group before booking. For a group of experienced older hikers, this was the perfect trip. You were well organized, competent, safe, and supplied us with a really great New Zealand experience that we will remember forever!. Having two great New Zealand guides gave it the magic touch. Can’t say enough about Tim and Chris. They both excelled in a way that made all of us feel confident, safe, excited, and special. It was a mixed group of people, but they helped everybody to achieve everything that they wanted. These are two genuine individuals that sincerely cared about their charges and bent over backwards to make their experience just terrific. Not to leave anybody out, Jody was great on the sales side and gave us enough information so we could make our decisions properly. Tash was great setting up all the details and was very responsive to all of our needs. Thanks to both of them. This trip ranked well up on the list of the best trips that we’ve ever taken, including base camp Everest, Kilimanjaro, India Himalayas, and Iceland. I might add that this is the only trip that inspired me to want to come back to the same country again! New Zealand is awesome!
Written April 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It's wonderful to hear you loved your visit to New Zealand with us so much you are eager to return! Chris and Tim will be thrilled to hear how much you enjoyed their company and care on your trip. They are top notch guides who will be delighted to know their passion for guiding and New Zealand shines through! The whole team here at New Zealand trails would be delighted to welcome you back here again one day! Cheers Jodi
Written July 7, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Bostonfern
Loveland, OH5 contributions
Feb 2020
We scanned the internet trying to find a company that would combine our desire to see as much of New Zealand as we could and do some hiking and biking as part of the experience. We also didn't want to have to drive ourselves as its too hard to drive and see the country side around you at the same time, yet we didn't want to be part of a huge bus full of tourists on a big bus. New Zealand Trails just seemed to have it all. And though we were a little apprehensive about using a company we hadn't heard of except on the internet, we couldn't have been happier with out selection. From my first email to them, they were extremely attentive. They responded immediately to any questions and were very helpful. The guides were just the best! MJ and Tom worked harder than any guides we've ever run across before and went above and beyond to be sure our group of 9 were always comfortable and well fed. We loved them both. We'd never been to New Zealand before and really didn't know a lot about it or its history. They were able to provide us with much information about New Zealand itself as well as the areas we passed through. The country is so picturesque and pristine. We were a little worried about getting into Milford Sound because heavy rain a couple weeks before had caused considerable damage to the road into the sound. New Zealand Trails went out of their way, keeping us informed and up to date on the situation, even offering to provide everyone with a flight over the sound if the busses were unable to drive in. We were very impressed with their diligence in being sure we were all able to get into the sound somehow. We hiked, we biked, we kayaked and we had experiences we had never known we'd enjoy.....like swimming with the dolphins. That was definitely a highlight. Accommodations were always clean and comfortable, and frequently unique locations. We were extremely pleased with our decision to go ahead with New Zealand Trails.
Written March 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It was lovely to be a part of planning your trip to New Zealand and we are delighted that you thoroughly enjoyed your experience with us! It's great to see MJ and Tom's passion for New Zealand came through in their knowledge and care. And how wonderful they were able to introduce you to a new experience you enjoyed so much, swimming with our native dolphins! Cheers Jodi
Written May 14, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Paula C
Taunton, UK1 contribution
Feb 2020 • Solo
This was a wonderful 5 day trip around the North Island which I would strongly recommend to anyone who wants to see a lot in a short time. We managed kayaking on the Coromandel Coast, hiking the Tongariro Crossing, seeing geysers and hot springs at Rotorua, participating in a Maori cultural evening, seeing glow worms and much, much more. Our two guides were amazing. They were so well informed and went way above normal service to ensure we were very well looked after. I have such lovely memories to treasure from this great trip.
Written February 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your review of your Sweet North adventure with us. It sounds like you truly did enjoy a lot in a short amount of time and that you were shown what Kiwi hospitality is all about : ) Cheers Jodi
Written March 2, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

CapeMayMarsha
Newton, MA69 contributions
Jan 2020
We recently finished the Masterpiece trip and felt both challenged as well as pampered and cared for even when getting up before dawn. Our guides were fabulous, knowledgeable, helpful and lots of fun. The daily excursions Corban and Libby took us on immersed us into the nature and beauty of NZ. We hiked/tramped along majestic routes, biked, swam with wild dolphins, kayaked and hiked some more. The meals and accommodations were excellent and varied exposing us to the diversity of food and settings in the South Island. We stayed in an isolated lodge set against a lake, a tiny motel in Foulwind, a typical KIWI "batch", a luxurious lodge at the top of Millford Sound and more "city" hotels. When I look at the photos, it's hard to believe how much we were able to see and experience in 2 weeks. Thank you New Zealand Trails
Written February 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you, Marsha! It sounds like you really had the full experience of New Zealand from your activities to accommodation to food all while enjoying your time with your lovely guides. We are so pleased! Jodi
Written February 7, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Louise L
2 contributions
Apr 2019 • Couples
This was an awesome tour that I highly recommend. Each day was well organized with a variety of activities and sights during the tour. Our driver, Rob, always drove professionally and safely. I’m prone to motion sickness but didn’t have a problem (even on windy roads) because he drove so smoothly. Both our guide and driver were incredibly knowledgeable about everything New Zealand - geography, geology, flora and fauna, food, politics, society. Great sense of humour. Accommodations were always clean, comfortable, quiet and usually quite pampering. Food was delicious. They always ensured good food options for anyone with food restrictions (in our group we had vegetarians and gluten free). The hikes were manageable for anyone with an average fitness level. Beautiful sights around every corner while hiking and while driving.
Highly recommend New Zealand trails.
Written March 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The fact that you got so much out of your World Heritage Tour means a lot both to us and to your guides. I'm delighted you enjoyed the local knowledge your guides were able to share with you, the beauty on the trails, and of course the classic Kiwi sense of humour! Cheers Jodi
Written June 29, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Shelley R
1 contribution
Dec 2019
New Zealand Trails is a terrific company to use when going to New Zealand. There are several trips to choose. The World Heritage trip was terrific. I am an outdoor person and all the hiking, kayaking, and sightseeing was amazing. The guides were outstanding, they knew the areas so well that when an adjustment was needed due to weather, it was seemless. I highly recommend New Zealand Trails for a visit to New Zealand.
Written January 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Shelley It’s great to hear you enjoyed your time with us on your World Heritage and that your guides were top notch! Thank you for recommending us! Cheers Jodi
Written January 15, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

C V
Minneapolis, NC10 contributions
Dec 2019
In Dec. 2018 and Jan 2019 we went on Kiwi Classic and True North. We were lucky to have Shona as our lead guide on both trips. We chose Kiwi Classic with our 3 twenty-something sons, and then my husband and I also went on True North. The itinerary and experiences were well thought out and planned. Shona (and I see Rachael’s and Mike’s pictures on the current web site; Kendra was also one of our guides) and NZT had alternatives planned when it was too wet or too windy for the original plan. Guides were always cheerful. Mix of challenging and less challenging days was right. We were lucky enough to have dry weather for the drive to Milford Sound; then it rained overnight and we awoke to a totally changed Sound and drive back - waterfalls were everywhere! Our family will never forget Christmas spent backpacking Nelson Lakes, swimming with the dusky dolphins, Okarito, Pancake Rocks, Lake Wanaka, and, on the North Island, hiking the Tongariro Crossing. Jodi was very helpful with the planning.
Written April 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Shona loved having you both on our Sweet North Island trip and having you join us as a family on our active Kiwi Classic trip too! We are delighted you had so many highlights on your tour of New Zealand and to hear that your guides were able to accommodate you all so well. It sounds as though you will have some treasured memories, and hopefully some great photos, to keep forever! Cheers Jodi
Written July 1, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

KS_Colorado303
Denver, CO15 contributions
Feb 2023
NZ Trails does a fantastic job of putting together a wonderful itinerary of hikes and activities that'll take your breath away. We did the 14 day Masterpiece tour and everyday was filled with amazing views and fun activities. We spent a fair amount of time in the travel van in order to cover the whole south island, but the camaraderie of the group (full at 14 people) was fantastic and the tour guide driver was excellent. Both of our tour guides had varied experiences and knowledge so the combination was far-reaching. Many days they offered both challenging hikes and those that allowed for sightseeing and birdwatching. Besides the daily hikes, activities included biking, kayaking, boat cruising, wine tasting and a free day to do what you like (in Nelson). I feel the expense of the tour worth it because of the expansive knowledge of the local guides and the company's knowledge and research of putting together a memorable itinerary. And, we didn't have to worry about booking lodging, planning the driving or the meals. Often, on tours, the meals are booked for high volumes of tourists that are flavorless and provided in an overcooked buffet line, but these were all just our group dining at local restaurants. They placed our meal orders ahead of time though so that we didn't have to wait to be seated or the additional time to be server - or place a burden on the local business. I highly recommend booking a tour with them!
Written March 14, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for leaving us such a lovely review. Being a small local company here in New Zealand reviews like this really mean a lot to our whole team. We put our heart and soul into providing the best New Zealand travel experience we can so receiving great feedback like this is always greatly appreciated. Thank you for choosing to travel with us and again for the kind review. All the best from the entire team here at New Zealand Trails. I hope we see you down here again soon!
Written March 15, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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New Zealand Trails - The Trip of Your Lifetime! (Queenstown) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

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