Discover New Zealand’s Wild, Untouched High Country on a Full Day Guided Hike.
Join us on a legendary full-day guided hiking adventure into some of the most rugged and remote corners of the Mackenzie Region. Far from the crowds and well-trodden trails, you’ll explore the hidden wilderness of Lake Tekapo and the awe-inspiring private backcountry of Aoraki/Mount Cook & Lake Ohau’s Ruataniwha Conservation near Twizel.
Your journey begins with exclusive 4WD access into private high country stations, accompanied by your experienced and personable hiking guide. From there, set out on foot into dramatic alpine landscapes few ever get to see.
Each hike is tailored to your fitness level and preferences—whether it’s a challenging climb into soaring hanging valleys and along remote ridgelines, or a gentler walk through rolling terrain past alpine tarns, with glaciers towering in the background.
This is a rare opportunity to truly disconnect, breathe in the alpine air, and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of New Zealand’s high country—at your own pace.
Tour Highlights:
- Exclusive 4WD access to private high country stations.
- Guided hiking in remote and untouched alpine landscapes near Lake Tekapo, Aoraki/Mount Cook, and Twizel.
- Hikes tailored to your fitness level and preferences.
- Experienced and knowledgeable hiking guides.
- Opportunity to see hidden valleys, ridgelines, alpine tarns, and glaciers.
- Small group sizes for a personalized experience.
Tour Details
Duration
9 am - 5 pm (approximately 7-8 hours)
Departure
AOTEA GIFTS | Tekapo Township
Group Size
Minimum 1 person, Maximum 12 people
Dress Code
Casual, Comfortable, Stable Footwear, Warm Jacket, Hat, Sunglasses, Camera
Included
✔️ Driver
✔️ Educational Tour
✔️ Light Refreshment
✔️ Light Snack
Not Included
❌ Meals
❌ Souvenirs
Season
October - July
Location Options
Cass Valley, Mt Cook Backcountry, Twizel Backcountry
Meet Our Guides
Ben
Founder & Guide
Ben
As kiwi as it gets, hails from a long history of guiding throughout New Zealand and overseas. From The Milford Track, driving jet boats on the Hollyford track, or multi day hiking tours and enduro mountain bike expeditions, he is a man of many talents! Filled with a rich and passionate knowledge of geology and history, and wild places. Ben is the co founder of Tekapo Adventures and enjoys sharing his passion with people from around the globe. On his down time you can find him riding bikes with the kids, hunting and tramping and fixing vehicles!
Cristina
Founder & Guide
Cristina
A Can- Iwi as we call her, shes born in Canada and lives in New Zealand alongside Ben and their little two monkeys. You’ll enjoy her local knowledge and passion for nature and wild places, alongside her rich experience in guiding throughout the southern alps by hiking and Mountain biking for over 16+years. She looks after alot of the admin and marketing and sales and you can also find her behind the driver's seat too! On her down time you can find her exploring nature with the kids, or doing yoga.
Chris
Guide
Chris
A one-of-a-kind Mackenzie Country Charmer, Chris comes from a farming background, with a wealth of details and knowledge about the area's uniqueness. You'll surely have a good laugh and feel like your best mate is showcasing you this incredible backcountry. He's a charmer and a true highlight on many guests' experiences with us. On his downtime, he's a jack of all trades and drives big tractors in Canada during winter.
Wayne
Guide
Wayne
Wayne hails from a long history of Deer farming in the Mackenzie Country. A true natural of tales and laughs, you can be sure to enjoy Wayne witty nature and passion for farming and history of the area. Away from being a man of many tales, you can find Wayne riding his mountain bike and travelling afar and welcoming many overseas guests into their wonderful property in The Mackenzie.
Why Choose Tekapo Adventures
Choosing Tekapo Adventures means opting for a uniquely immersive experience in the Mackenzie Backcountry. Our intimate knowledge of the land, family roots, and commitment to sustainability make every journey with us not just a trip, but a foray into the heart of New Zealand's natural majesty. Join us to discover why our exclusive access, expert guidance, and diverse, educational adventures set us apart as the preferred choice for discerning explorers.
FAMILY HERITAGE
Join our family. Experience the warmth and personalized service that can only come from a family-run venture. We actively explore and share wonderful experiences with people from around the globe and our small family in The Mackenzie Backcountry. A part of our hearts lies in the landscapes found here.
DIVERSE EXPERIENCES
Whether it’s a peaceful 4WD tour or a challenging Alpine hike, our diverse offerings cater to all adventure spirits. 4Wd day tours to remote mutli day hiking experiences, we enjoy the diversity of exploring the Mackenize Backcountry in many ways.
EDUCATIONAL JOURNEYS
Expand your horizons. Our trips are infused with insightful narratives about the local ecology, geology, and history.
EXCLUSIVE ACCESS
Unveil the hidden corners of the Mackenzie Country with our unparalleled access to private lands. We hold exclusive access to some of New Zealand's most incredible high country stations.
EXPERT GUIDES
Learn from the best. Our guides are not only wilderness experts but also storytellers of the land.
SUSTAINABLE ADVENTURES
Journey with a clear conscience. Our eco-friendly approach ensures the preservation of these landscapes for years to come.
