Travel is becoming more and more about having memorable experiences and wow, these must be two of the best. Australians planning a summer trip to New Zealand should check out two of the country’s most sought-after wilderness experiences.
Operated by Ngāi Tahu Tourism, Franz Josef Glacier Guides and the Hollyford Wilderness Experience have unveiled overnight adventures designed to immerse travellers in some of the most remote and spectacular landscapes in Aotearoa.
HOLLYFORD WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
The Hollyford Wilderness Experience has been recognised in the 2025 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards for the second year, making it into the top 10% of listings worldwide on Tripadvisor, the world’s largest travel guidance platform.
In Franz Josef, the newly launched Glacier Overnighter invites guests to spend the night atop the glacier itself – a rare opportunity to camp under the stars on Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere (Franz Josef Glacier). The experience includes a scenic helicopter transfer, a guided hike across glacial ice, and an overnight alpine stay in a purpose-built high-altitude camp, all hosted by experienced guides.
Manuhiri (guests) will enjoy a hot meal under the night skies and watch the sun rise over Aoraki/Mt Cook, before returning to Franz Josef via a helicopter transfer to refresh and relax at the five star Te Waonui Forest Retreat. Select departures are available over the New Year period offering a memorable way to welcome 2026 from more than 1,500 metres above sea level.
WAITAI LODGE, FIORDLAND
In Fiordland, Hollyford Valley Walks has introduced the Waitai Lodge Fiordland Escape – an exclusive coastal lodge available for overnight stays. Accessible only by helicopter, the lodge offers a comfortable and remote retreat located in Fiordland National Park, with chef-prepared meals, private rooms, and access to one of New Zealand’s most untouched regions. Manuhiri will have the option of exploring the local area either by land or jetboat with expert guides on hand, or they can choose to relax in woodfired hot tubs under the starry night sky.
With stays available over the Christmas and New Year period, these two experiences provide truly exceptional options for those wanting to celebrate in a special way.
“These are some of the most unique and remote travel experiences available in New Zealand,” said Jolanda Cave, General Manager of Ngāi Tahu Tourism. “For many of our guests – particularly those visiting from Australia – it’s a chance to do something truly different. Whether you’re watching the sun rise over a glacier or dining by candlelight on the edge of the sea, these moments stay with people long after they return home.
“We’ve worked closely with our team, guides, and mana whenua (people of the land) to develop experiences that reflect these landscapes – and we’re proud to be sharing them with manuhiri (guests) from across the Tasman and beyond.”
Both experiences are expected to be in high demand, particularly over the summer school holidays and festive season. With limited capacity and short seasons, early bookings highly recommended.
Visit Ngāi Tahu Tourism, Franz Josef Glacier Guides and the Hollyford Wilderness Experience for more details…
