Thursday 12th November 2026

Arrive Christchurch

Arrive into Christchurch in your own time or travel with your Women’s Fitness Adventures C.R.E.W Leader. Spend some time getting to know this beautiful city before our Welcome Dinner this evening – the beginning of everything.

Accommodation:    Hotel, Twin share

Meals:  Dinner

Friday 13th November 2026

Christchurch to Methven – Mt Somers.

Accommodation:  Multi-share group lodge

Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Distance: 10km Hiking Time: 5-6 hours hiking (approx.)

Saturday 14th November 2026

Methven – Mt Cook

We leave Methven and head south, the Canterbury Plains giving way to the Mackenzie Country, a high, wide basin of tawny grasslands, braided rivers and glacial lakes that sit an impossible shade of blue-green against the tussock.

We stop at Lake Tekapo long enough to stretch our legs properly, hiking up through wilding conifers and open tussock to the summit of Mt John. The 360-degree views from the top make it clear why people come a long way to stand here.

Then we drive on to Mt Cook Village, arriving in the early afternoon with enough light and energy left for the Hooker Valley Track. It’s a relatively flat walk, but don’t let that fool you.  The valley draws you deeper into the Alps with every kilometre, the glaciers on Mt Sefton and The Footstool filling the skyline above, until you reach Hooker Lake and the south face of Aoraki / Mt Cook stops you in your tracks. At 3,724 metres, it earns the silence.

We’re here for two nights. There’s nowhere quite like it.

Accommodation: Multi-share group lodge

Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Distance: 13km total Hiking Time:

1 hour – Tekapo; 10 kms, 3-4 hours – Hooker Valley

Sunday 15th November 2026

Mt Cook

The legs earned their rest yesterday. Today they earn their reward.

We hike up to Sealy Tarns, climbing steadily through the alpine scrub until the tarns open out above us — still water holding perfect reflections of the Mt Cook Range. It’s the kind of moment that stops conversation.

We rest here, eat something, take it in. For those who want more, the route continues up to Mueller Ridge where the view extends across the Mueller Glacier and Mt Sefton — wider, higher, harder won.

The two groups meet again on the descent, comparing notes on what they saw from their respective perches.

Back in the village by mid-afternoon, there’s time to do nothing in particular — rest at the lodge, or wander across to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre if you want context for the mountains you’ve been walking in. The stories of the early climbers who came here before the roads did are worth an hour of anyone’s time.

As the light drops, watch the summit of Aoraki. On the right evening it moves from white to pink to something you won’t have a name for. It doesn’t happen every night. When it does, you’ll know why people come back.

Two nights here. The second one always feels different to the first.

Accommodation: Multi-share group lodge.

Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Distance: 6-8km Hiking Time: 6 hrs (approx.)

Monday 16th November 2026

Mt. Cook – Aspiring Hut

After breakfast, we continue our journey south to Wanaka to make the most of the outdoor opportunities on offer.

We continue through the town and further up the Matukituki Valley to the road end. Here we shoulder overnight packs and enjoy stunning alpine views as we hike across grassed flats to Aspiring Hut with unforgettable views of high glaciated mountains and ice carved valleys. Catch glimpses of the Matterhorn-like Mt Aspiring (3033m) between high peaks.

There is the option later this  afternoon to hike further up the valley crossing the Cascade Creek swing bridge and on towards Shovel and Pearl Flats.

Accommodation: Aspiring Hut

Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Distance: 12km Hiking Time: 4 hrs (approx.)

Tuesday 17th November 2026

Aspiring Hut – Wanaka

We enjoy a relaxed breakfast in this incredible setting before enjoying easy walking and wide-open views as we follow the floor of the Matukituki Valley back towards Raspberry Flat.

On the way, we take a rewarding side trip into the Rob Roy Valley, climbing through native beech forest to a viewpoint below the impressive Rob Roy Glacier. It is a spectacular way to round out our time in Mount Aspiring National Park, with hanging ice, waterfalls, and big mountain scenery all around us.

If the weather behaves, dinner tonight will be picnic-style on the lakefront, or we will self-cater in the apartment.

Accommodation: Hotel style – Twin share

Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Distance: 17km Hiking Time: 6 – 7 hrs (approx.)

Wednesday 18th November 2026

Aspiring Hut- Queenstown

Today we explore the lower Matukituki Valley, starting with the Diamond Lake walk before continuing up Rocky Mountain, a distinctive glacially carved roche moutonnée, or “rock sheep”.

From the higher viewpoints, we are rewarded with wide-reaching views across the lake, towards the Southern Alps, and out to Mount Aspiring/Tititea.

This area offers a range of walking options, from the gentle Diamond Lake circuit through to the more energetic climb to the Rocky Mountain summit, giving us flexibility to make the most of the day.

Accommodation: Hotel style – Twin share

Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Distance: 7.5km Hiking Time: 3 hrs (approx.)

Thursday 19th November 2026

Queenstown – Departure Day

After breakfast, the adventure is officially yours to do with as you please.

For those with time before their flight, Queenstown rewards a wander – good coffee, good food, and if it’s your first time, plenty to explore. For those who’ve been before, there’s something to be said for sitting somewhere with a view and letting it all sink in.

We say our goodbyes when the time comes. Not rushed. Just done well.

Meals: Breakfast

Our first night is in hotel accommodation in Christchurch (twin share)

2 nights Lodge style Accommodation (multi share) in Mt Cook National Park (sleeping bag required)

1 night lodge style accommodation – Lake Ohau

1 night hotel accommodation – Wanaka

1 night in Aspiring Hut (lodge style – multi share)

1 nights hotel accommodation – Queenstown

*Note accommodation is indicative only and may vary from image shown depending on our style of cabin, hotel or hiking hut.

Note that the dormitory style accommodation may be shared with persons NOT within our group.

From your Welcome Dinner on arrival night in Christchurch through to breakfast on our departure day, almost all meals are included.

Trail lunches are packed for the day ,designed for women who are actually out hiking. Dinners are shared around the table after a full day on the trail.

8 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 8 dinners and all delicious snacks on the trail

Every Women’s Fitness Adventure Multi day hike ends the same way – and we love it.

The Awards and Celebration Dinner on the final evening of the adventure in Queenstown is not a formality. It’s the moment the group stops and looks back at what it has just done – together. Every woman is recognised. Not for finishing first or hiking furthest, but for what she brought to the trail and to the group around her.

Women who have been on multiple WFA adventures tell us they look forward to this dinner as much as any day on the trail. It is the moment the adventure becomes a memory – and the friendships formed on the trail become something that lasts well beyond the final day.

This is one of the things that makes a Women’s Fitness Adventure different from a hiking trip. We mark what we do. We see each other. We celebrate.

Our local guide and our private vehicle are with us from Day 2 through to Queenstown on Day 7. All transfers between trailheads, lodges, and accommodation are included. All transfers operate in commercially licensed vehicles.

Airfares to Christchurch and from Queenstown are not included.

From the moment you land in Christchurch (or on the plane if you decide to travel together), until the time of your return, your Women’s Fitness Adventures C.R.E.W Leader is with you every step of the way.

Assisting your Women’s Fitness Adventures CREW Leader is One Professional Outdoor Guide with comprehensive knowledge of the local history, flora and fauna. Our guides have many years of experience in the region and in trekking.

Our guides and our adventure are NZ Department of Conservation Approved

Our goal is to deliver you a world class adventure on the scenic South Island of New Zealand

Within a few weeks of your booking being confirmed, you will have access to your Gear and Packing list.

By sticking to the list, you will be well prepared for NZ Southern Lakes Adventure with Women’s Fitness Adventures.

If you are new to adventures and do not have the gear, we recommend you watch the Masterclasses on topics such as boots, backpacks and raincoats found inside the Member Portal on our website.

Additionally, make contact with us via the Facebook Group or by contacting the office.

Your Women’s Fitness Adventures membership gives you access to a discount with our Adventure Store partner based in Brisbane. This generous discount is available for use in store, online or over the phone – so can be accessed wherever you live.

Your C.R.E.W Leaders are carrying Emergency Communications Equipment and a group first aid kit.

Sleeping bags are required where marked on the itinerary.

Emergency communications and group first aid kit are carried at all times.

Our NZ Southern Lakes Adventure comes complete with its very own private Facebook Group.

This is designed specifically for maximum interaction and communication to ensure you never miss a moment in the lead up.

Additionally there is an online meeting designed to bring the group together, check in on your training and provide any updates.

We have graded this adventure MODERATE.

If you are unsure of your current fitness level, this resource will help: How to find your hiking fitness level

On this adventure, moderate means six hiking days of roughly three to seven hours, through alpine valleys, high country and glacier-fed lake trails across the Southern Alps and Mt Aspiring National Park. The longest day is around 17km.

The hiking is not technical. What it asks for is cardio fitness, steady legs on descents, and the ability to do it again the next day.

We carry a group first aid kit and emergency communications equipment.

We hike as a group and we finish as a group. That is the goal on every day, and it is why the training plan exists and why we pay attention to pace, footing and each other on the trail. Looking after ourselves is how the whole group gets there.

Occasionally something happens that is beyond anyone’s control. If it does, we work it out together with our crew leader and our guide.

Conditions can also require a change to the itinerary. See Weather for more on this.

On the New Zealand Southern Lakes Adventure your hike will consist of mainly day pack hiking. The weight in your pack is approximately 6-8kg (personal items, clothing, water, snacks, camera, raincoat etc) On days 6 and 7, when completing the trek to Aspiring Hut, you will need to carry all your personal equipment in a full backpack (these will be provided).

The weight of this may be up to 15kg. This includes sleeping bag, along with a few personal items, clothing and your share of the group food. Depending on personal gear and toiletries, the average pack weight should be 12-15kg. A comprehensive gear list will be supplied to you.

Large backpacks can be hired should you not have your own.

If you are unsure as to your current fitness level please use this handy resource: How to find your hiking fitness level

It is important to come along with an open mind ready for an awesome experience whatever the weather. It is very important you bring the right gear for the conditions.  New Zealand weather can be unpredictable, storms can arise very quickly and heavy rain can fall at any time of the year. A comprehensive gear list will be provided once we have secured your booking.

In the event of extreme weather conditions, the adventure may vary from the itinerary. Please be aware of this and accept this as part of the adventure. Your personal safety is our highest priority. The itinerary is also subject to change with any change in community regulations as well as governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control.

The following items are INCLUDED as part of the adventure

• Transfers from Christchurch airport to our private accommodation and return to Queenstown Airport.
• All transfers that form part of the daily activities whilst on the adventure
• All breakfasts, lunches and dinners as per the itinerary as well as snacks on the trail.
• Nightly accommodation – twin share in hotel, lodges or huts.
• Your Women’s Fitness Adventures C.R.E.W Leader
• Professional, local hiking guide
• All necessary permits and licences
• Public Liability Insurance
• Comprehensive First Aid kit and emergency communications equipment

The following items are NOT INCLUDED as part of the adventure

• Sleeping bag, personal Gear & Equipment (including full pack for Aspiring Hut)
• Tips and gratuities
• Travel Insurance
• Transfers other than specified
• Alcohol
• Airfares or travel/transport to NZ and return
• Souvenirs, gifts
• Meals & food not specified on the itinerary
• Entrance fees unless specified

NZ Southern Lakes Adventure 12th – 19th November 2026

A Quick Guide to Our Booking Terms and Conditions.

We’re thrilled you’re considering joining us for the NZ Southern Lakes Fitness Adventure. Here’s a simple breakdown of what to expect when you book:

Payments: Start your adventure with us by securing your spot with a 35% non-refundable payment. We’ll provide the specific payment deadlines below for your convenience.

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policy for Members

All cancellations must be in writing and emailed to info@womensfitnessadventures.com. Your cancellation date is the date when written notification is received.

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policy

Please note the payment terms including the cancellation policy.

• An initial non refundable payment of 35% is required to secure your place on this adventure.
• Once a booking is confirmed, payment must be received within the payment terms as advised by Women’s Fitness Adventures in the table below.
• Failure to pay within the deadline will result in automatic cancellation of your booking.
• Payments are accepted by direct deposit or by credit card. There are no credit card surcharges for bookings made through the Women’s Fitness Adventures website
• When your credit card is processed by Women’s Fitness Adventures you agree to not have your payment ‘charged back’ or reversed by your credit card provider where the services have been provided.

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policy

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policy for Members

All cancellations must be in writing and emailed to info@womensfitnessadventures.com. Your cancellation date is the date when written notification is received.

Payment Terms

 Cancellation Policy

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policy for Non-Members

All cancellations must be in writing and emailed to info@womensfitnessadventures.com. Your cancellation date is the date when written notification is received.

Payment Terms

 Cancellation Policy

No refunds are provided should you have to leave the adventure early.

As our adventures are so popular, please be aware that if you cancel your place, it will most likely be taken by someone else so you should consider this carefully.

Travel Insurance: To ensure everyone has peace of mind, travel insurance is required shortly after your booking—within five days. Your policy should cover everything from medical emergencies to trip cancellations.

Itinerary Changes: Adventures are full of surprises! Sometimes, external factors may necessitate itinerary changes. While we can’t offer refunds for these changes, we strive to ensure every adventure is as amazing as planned.

If you have specific dietary requirements (including dairy-free, gluten-free, or vegan), please inform us prior to booking, as additional charges may apply based on requirements from our suppliers. We’ll do our best to accommodate your needs, but some requests may require prior discussion and approval.

Once you make your first payment, we’ll send you a document with all the details of these terms. Please read it carefully, sign via JotForm, and return it to us to confirm your spot.

For all the details and to read our full Booking Terms & Conditions, please refer to the PDF for this adventure.

We can’t wait to share this adventure with you.

Our fabulous adventures allow you to create memories and friendships that last a lifetime. At Women’s Fitness Adventures we are also committed to sustainable adventures so that the places and spaces we go will also last well beyond our lifetime and the many generations to follow. Sustainability starts when you join our community and never ends.

We are committed to the principles of minimal impact, leave no trace, tread lightly  and give back to the local community. Here’s how we do that for all of our adventures (short and long)

Consumables

• We encourage “no plastics” so bringing refillable water bottles, reusable cups and cutlery where applicable and using lunchboxes where plastic can be minimised
• It’s a leave no trace principle, so all food scraps, toilet waste and rubbish items are carried out. (See our Masterclass on Toileting for the Trail)
• We are committed to reducing paper waste inside our organisation and have implemented a paperless booking system.

Transport

• For this adventure, once in country, we use either foot or public transport as our mode of movement.
• When flying, we encourage you to offset your emissions by purchasing carbon offsets.

Minimal impact

• We have a “tread lightly” policy where we stay on known tracks and paths, minimising our impact to bush, plants and wildlife.
• Before we embark on an adventure or trail, we brief you on the flora, fauna and any other considerations that form the uniqueness of the environment so that you understand and appreciate the minimal impact approach.

Accommodation & Adventure Partners

• Where possible we partner with Eco Certified businesses who follow the same eco philosophies
• Our adventures have all the applicable National Park permits and licenses to operate (or International equivalents)
• Our “give back” policy also applies to the locations we stay – choosing local operators, businesses and townships where funds spent go directly to small business owners – doing our part to create sustainable communities.