3 Days

2 Nights in a Rustic Hut

All inclusive

Off the Grid

A Private Journey into Deep South Fiordland with two nights in a Rustic Hut.

This experience offers a very special way to spend intimate time together with family or friends and paddle fun and exciting class 2 rapids. See some of the most untouched wilderness environments in New Zealand.

DAY 1

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DAY 1 | Rafting on the Waihereriri River, Deep South Fiordland

Helicopter flight
Jetboat
Rafting
Substantial packed lunch on the river
Bonfire on the beach

This expedition starts with a scenic helicopter transfer from your accommodation to the shores of Lake Houroko in Southern Fiordland. Here, a waiting jet boat will zip you across New Zealand’s deepest lake to the source and starting point of the rafting on the Wairaurahiri River.

After inflating and loading your rafts, a safety brief and instruction, your thrilling journey downstream commences. Leaving the lake and entering the river is slow and peaceful initially before becoming bumpier, with fun and exhilarating class 2 rapid wave trains. The Wairurahiri has a consistent gradient as it drops to the sea which creates wonderful, non-threatening rapids. They are lots of fun, without the hazards of higher-graded rivers.

Expect a truly exhilarating, engaging and empowering day paddling and bouncing your way downstream, surrounded by lush over-hanging rainforest, viewed from the comfort of your raft. In the afternoon your guide will pull into your accommodation for the evening – a private hut, just a short stroll through ancient rainforest to the wild Southern Coast. From here you can safely walk along the beach, accessible by foot or boat only, and enjoy views of New Zealand’s Stewart Island.

Departure Time: 8am from your Queenstown accommodation

Time on River: 4-6h depending on riverflow.

Gear Included: Wetsuit, splash jacket, helmet, and lifejacket.

To Bring: Something to wear under your wetsuit (i.e. swimsuit). Overnight gear - see packlist.

Meals: Packed lunch and Chef's dinner

Inclusions: Return Transfers To & From Lake Hauroko In Helicopters / Exclusive-Use rustic Lodge At South Coast / Jet Boat Transfers / All Food & Provision For Evening Beverages / All Rafting Clothing And Equipment

Notes: From age 10+, Class III Rapids. Perfect family adventure. For every water-based trip with NewZeal, we donate $50NZD to Wai Wānaka for the protection of our local environment.

DAY 2

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DAY 2 | Hiking and Exploring Ancient Forest

Hiking
Exploring untouched, ancient forest
Chef prepeard meals
Bonfire on the beach

Spend the next day exploring the untouched, ancient forest and coastline; hiking with your expert guide; sitting back and relaxing at the hut, or simply strolling along the beach in contemplation. The day can be as active or relaxed as you want it to be.

As evening falls, enjoy a bonfire on the beach as you sip locally brewed beers or enjoy a glass of regional New Zealand wine. Return to another delicious chef-prepared meal and while away the evening chatting with your guide and local, characterful hut host - an expert on the extremely special and fascinating history of the Māori land you are a visitor and guest on.

Departure Time: Your choice

Time on foot: 2-6h depending on fitness and choice.

Gear Included: Hiking poles

To Bring: Warm layers and a waterproof jacket.

Meals: Cooked breakfast, Packed lunch and Chef's Dinner

Notes: For every land-based trip with NewZeal, we donate $50NZD to Southern Lakes Sanctuary for the protection of our local environment

DAY 3

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DAY 3 | Jetboating Up-river and Exploring Fiordland by Helicopter

Jetboating upriver
Exploration of Fiordland by helicopter
Multiple remote landings including glaciers, ridgelines, valleys, and alpine lakes
Short wilderness hikes and alpine trekking
Substantial packed lunch in a breathtaking natural setting

The following morning, a jet boat will arrive to transport you back upstream,where a helicopter will meet you to continue your explorative journey of the wilderness of Fiordland. Take the opportunity to experience the full majesty of the New Zealand wilderness with a scenic flight and remote landing en route back to Queenstown.

Leave this exhilarating adventure feeling invigorated, inspired, and with magical shared memories to last a lifetime.

Departure Time: 8.30am from Waitutu lodge

Time in Jetboat: 30min

Time with Helicopter: Approx 4 hours (weather dependant)

Gear Included: Hiking poles.

To Bring: Warm layers and a waterproof jacket.

Meals: Cooked Breakfast and Packed lunch

Notes: For every helicopter-based trip with NewZeal, we donate $50NZD to whakatipu reforestation trust for the protection & regeneration of our local ecosystem

FROM $18,350pp
(based on group of 4)