7 days exploring remote South Island backcountry, wild camps, classic 4WD tracks, river crossings, high country valleys and unforgettable mountain scenery.
7-day guided small group expedition
Price is per vehicle, not per person
Overview
This 7-day expedition is a true South Island overlanding adventure, taking you from Canterbury to the Queenstown Lakes through some of New Zealand’s most spectacular and remote backcountry. It combines classic 4WD touring, wild camping, mountain scenery, river valleys and historic high country travel into one unforgettable journey.
From the Harper and Avoca Valleys to the Macaulay, Hopkins, Oteake and Nevis, this trip is designed for those who want to experience remote South Island travel properly. Expect a constantly changing mix of high country landscapes, river crossings, gold mining country, mountain huts and classic backcountry 4WD routes.
Why this trip stands out
This trip stands out because it delivers a genuine week-long overland journey through some of the best remote country in the South Island. It is not just a collection of day trips, but a proper camping-based expedition linking together a remarkable variety of landscapes, tracks and wilderness locations.
With a small convoy, a flexible expedition style and nights spent camping in memorable backcountry settings, it offers a real sense of journey and adventure. For those wanting an authentic New Zealand overlanding experience in a shorter format, this is the trip.
Trip highlights
• Sheffield to Queenstown Lakes over 7 unforgettable days
• Small convoy expedition limited to 6 vehicles
• Harper Valley
• Avoca Valley
• Bassins Hut
• Macaulay Valley
• Lake Pukaki and views of Aoraki / Mt Cook
• Hopkins Valley
• Oteake Conservation Area
• Nevis Valley
• Macetown, time and weather permitting
• Wild camping in remote backcountry locations
• High country scenery, river crossings and gold mining country
Accommodation
This is a fully camping-based expedition, with most nights spent in remote wilderness locations near huts with access to basic toilet facilities. Camping is a central part of what makes this trip special and allows us to stay close to the country we are exploring.
There will be opportunities along the way to shower, refuel and replenish supplies. Because this is a genuine backcountry expedition, flexibility is important. Weather, track conditions and access can sometimes require a change of plan, so alternatives are always kept in reserve to help deliver the best possible experience safely.
Vehicle requirements
Participants join in their own suitable 4WD vehicle. Your vehicle should be well-maintained and properly equipped for gravel roads, backcountry tracks, river crossings and changing mountain conditions. A preparation guide and kit list will be provided before departure. For more information on vehicle suitability, trip preparation and what to bring, please see our FAQs page.
What’s included
Guided expedition leadership, route planning, pre-trip information and support throughout the journey.
What’s not included
Travel to the trip start point and from the finish point, fuel, food and drinks, camping equipment unless stated, personal travel insurance, and any vehicle-related costs including recovery, repairs or damage. Please see our FAQs page for more information on bookings, payments and trip logistics.
Cost
The cost of the NZ Wilderness Expedition – 7 Day Camping is $3,000 per vehicle.
Please note that this trip is limited to 6 vehicles.
Ready to join the adventure?
Choose your departure date above to book your place, or get in touch if you would like help deciding whether this is the right trip for you. If you are looking for a genuine South Island overland journey through remote high country, wild camps and classic 4WD terrain, this is the trip.