Top of the South Walking Tour  

Wild Coastlines, Golden Beaches & a Waka Adventure

 

The Top of the South tour is specially designed for women who love being active outdoors but prefer exploring without the commitment of a multi-day hike. Starting and ending in Christchurch, this easy-paced journey reveals the hidden gems of the northern South Island - from the rugged West Coast and ancient Nikau palm forests to the wide golden sands of Wharariki Beach and the sparkling waters of Abel Tasman National Park. Paddle a traditional Māori Waka, wander through magical limestone arches, and spot rare birds at Farewell Spit - all with short, varied walks, home-cooked meals, and cosy accommodation taken care of. A perfect blend of wild nature, peaceful beauty, and shared moments with like-minded women.

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Day 1: Christchurch, Arthur’s Pass, Ōtari Valley Walk, Truman Track & Pancake Rocks

After meeting in Christchurch around 10 am, we take our time travelling to the fabulous West Coast via Arthur’s Pass National Park and its breathtaking scenery. We stop for a café lunch at Arthur’s Pass (not included).
Before arriving on “The Coast”, we stretch our legs with a short walk through the Ōtari Valley (about 1–2 hours). We might spot some cheeky kea (mountain parrots) amidst panoramic mountain views. The track meanders through a picturesque alpine valley near Mount Rolleston/Kaimatau, crossing over a glacial moraine and passing subalpine shrubs and seasonal wildflowers.

Continuing towards the coast, we enjoy one of our favourite short walks, the Truman Track. In just about 30 minutes, this track offers impressive coastal scenery and a great first taste of the West Coast landscape.
Of course, we also visit the famous Pancake Rocks and, if the tides allow, watch the powerful blowholes in action.
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Hiking time: ~ 1-2 hours plus ~ 30 mins

Driving time: ~ 4 hours / 285 km

Accommodation: Punakaiki

Meals:  D

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Day 2: Pororari River Track, Cape Foulwind Seals & Karamea

This morning we explore the beautiful Pororari River Track (about 3.5 hours). The walk follows a striking limestone gorge with towering rock formations, lush subtropical forest, and deep blue river pools.
We then continue north and visit the seal colony and lighthouse at Cape Foulwind. An easy coastal walkway with wide ocean views leads us to the viewing area (about 1.5 hours).
Later we travel on to Karamea, a small and remote settlement at the edge of Kahurangi National Park, where we stay for two nights.
We end the evening with dinner (included) at the restaurant at our accommodation.
 

​Hiking time: ~ 3-3.5 hours plus ~ 1-1.5 hours

Driving time: ~ 2.5 hours / 150 km

Accommodation: Karamea

Meals: B, L, D, S

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Day 3: Heaphy Track Day Walk & Oparara Arches

Today we walk one of the most scenic sections of the Heaphy Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. Starting near the Kohaihai River, we follow the track to a long swing bridge and then climb steadily through lush forest with nīkau palms, karaka, and rātā trees. A side loop takes us to the largest stand of nīkau palms on the South Island.
From a lookout near the saddle, we descend to Scotts Beach, a beautiful lunch spot with facilities and wide coastal views. This walk gives a wonderful introduction to the wild and varied landscape of the Heaphy Track.
Near Karamea, we also visit the Oparara Arches. Short walks through beech and podocarp forest lead to these impressive limestone arches carved by the river. Some are large enough to fit a multi-storey building, and there is access to the river if anyone feels like a refreshing dip.

Hiking time: ~ 3-4 hours plus ~ 1-1.5 hours

Accommodation: Karamea

Meals: B, L, D, S

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Day 4: Drive from Karamea via Buller Gorge to Motueka/Riwaka

We change coasts today, heading east around Kahurangi National Park. After retracing our route to Westport, we continue through the scenic Buller Gorge, where we can take in spectacular views of emerald-green foothills surrounding the pristine Buller River.

We break the drive for a café lunch (not included), and a short walk in Murchison before we reach the Tasman coast in Riwaka  where we stay the night.

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Driving time: ~ 5 hours / 330 km

Accommodation: Riwaka

Meals: B, D, S

 

Day 5: Waka Tour from Kaiteriteri & Riuwaka Resurgence

Just a short drive to Kaiteriteri brings us to today's unforgettable adventure, which is sure to leave a lasting impression. Waka Abel Tasman take our group on a journey of discovery - a combination of idyllic surroundings, movement, history and tradition. Most people may never have travelled in a waka (Māori canoe), and we will learn about many fascinating facets of our rich maritime history and heritage. We will paddle along the coast to Split Apple Rock/Toka Ngāwha, a beautiful, atmospheric site and one of the most famous places on the Abel Tasman Coast. The return journey takes about two hours and by the end we will understand how empowering membership of a waka crew can be.

We enjoy lunch at a cafe (not included) in Kaiteriteri, then continue to Tākaka for a two-night stay. En route, we visit Te Puna o Riuwaka (Riuwaka Resurgence), a sacred and peaceful place where crystal-clear water rises from underground. 

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Waka paddling time: ~ 2 hours
Walking time: ~ 1 hour
Driving time: ~ 1.5 hours / 70 km

Accommodation: Tākaka

Meals: B, D, S

 

Day 6: Labyrinth Rocks, Farewell Spit Walk, Wharariki Beach & Waikoropupū Springs

Today we head to the very top of the South Island. But first we stop at the aptly named Labyrinth Rocks - a fascinating maze of natural limestone formations. Exploring the wondrous shapes is fun for all ages!
We then continue to Farewell Spit, New Zealand’s longest sand spit and the northernmost point of the South Island. It currently comprises about 25 km of stable land with a further 5 km of sand spit. The entire area is a protected wetland and an important sanctuary for migrating birds. More than ninety species have been recorded here. We explore this special place on a circuit walk that takes in both sides of the spit.
A short drive brings us to Wharariki Beach, one of New Zealand’s most remarkable coastal areas. A 20-minute walk across farm paddocks and through coastal forest leads to a spectacular shoreline with caves, offshore islands, dunes, and a wide sweeping beach. We take our time to enjoy this varied and dramatic landscape.
On the way back towards Tākaka, we stop at Farewell Spit Lookout and also visit the mesmerising Waikoropupū Springs. New Zealand’s largest freshwater springs produce an impressive 14,000 litres per second, and the clarity of the water is extraordinary.
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Hiking time: ~ 2–3 hours plus ~ 1 hour
Driving time: ~ 2 hours / 110 km
Accommodation: Tākaka

Meals: B, L, D, S

 

Day 7: Lake Rotoiti Walk, St Arnaud

Today we travel to St Arnaud and explore beautiful Lake Rotoiti in Nelson Lakes National Park.
After lunch we discover the lake from different perspectives, both from the water and the shore. A water taxi takes us across the lake, and we return on foot along a scenic bush track. Tall beech forest rises above vivid green mosses and ferns for much of the walk back to Kerr Bay/St Arnaud (about 2.5 – 3 hours / 7 km). Bring your togs if you like - there are lovely swimming spots along the way.
Besides this planned walk, the Lake Rotoiti area offers several other short walking options for anyone who would like to explore more.
We stay overnight in St Arnaud.
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Hiking time: ~ 3 hours

Driving time: ~ 4 hours / 280 km 

Accommodation: St Arnaud

Meals: B, L, D, S

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Day 8: Drive from St Arnaud to Christchurch

After a last breakfast together we drive back to Christchurch with stops on the way to have lunch in a café (not included) and stretch our legs. We arrive around 4 pm and it’s time to say farewell. Your guide will drop you off at the airport or in town.

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Driving time: ~ 4.5 hours / 350 km 

Meals: B

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B-Breakfast  L-Lunch  D-Dinner  S-Snack

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Tour Grading

🥾 Top of the South – Grade 1–2 (Easiest to Easy) with one optional Grade 3 section (Moderate)

This tour offers a beautiful mix of easy walks – mostly flat or gently undulating tracks, with walking times ranging between 30 minutes and 5 hours. There’s one longer day (Grade 3) that involves more time on foot, but it can be shortened if needed, so you’re never pushed beyond your comfort zone.

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👉 Our recommendation

Ideal for women with little or no hiking experience, or for those who have done plenty in the past and now prefer shorter, enjoyable walks. It’s also the perfect way to (re)discover your joy for walking – in a relaxed and supportive group atmosphere.

​You can find more about how we grade our tours here: → Our Hiking Track Grading System explained