Customer Information. Milford Track guided walk

Transcription

1 Milford Track guided walk Customer Information Making New Zealand s great walks accessible to the world; operators of all-inclusive multiday & day guided walks on the spectacular Milford, Routeburn & Greenstone Tracks. Please consider the environment before printing this document in its entirety.

2 Milford Track guided walk Departures: Operates daily from 1 st November - 18 th April Milford Track Start Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Finish Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Capacity: The maximum number of people per departure is 50 (please note that we encourage you to walk at your own pace, you will not walk as one group). Pre-track briefing: It is essential that you attend a pre-track briefing on the day prior to the walk departure. This briefing is compulsory to attend as you will receive the following: * complete outline of what to expect * provided equipment * opportunity to purchase last minute required items * medical forms The briefing for the Milford Track guided walk is held at 5pm on the day prior to walk departure (check in at 4:45pm) at the Ultimate Hikes Centre, Ground Floor, The Station Building, Duke Street Entrance, Queenstown. Please advise our reservations department if you cannot make the pre-track briefing (strongly advised to attend), the Ultimate Hikes Centre will be open until 7pm each evening and you will be required to call in to pick up equipment. Please note that Te Anau departures are available. The Te Anau pre-track briefing is held at 9:30am on the morning of departure (on request, please notify reservations at time of booking). This is held at the Ultimate Hikes Office located at the Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas, Lakefront Drive. Departure time All transport from Queenstown to the start of track and return to Queenstown is included. There is no collection from accommodation so please meet at rear of The Station Building (outside the Ultimate Hikes Centre) at 9.15am on the morning of departure. The coach returns to Queenstown on the final day at approximately 4.00pm. You will be dropped off at The Station Building. No. of meals: Day 1: Lunch, dinner, refreshments Day 2-4: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, refreshments Day 5: Breakfast, lunch, refreshments Breakfast: selection of cereals, toast, fruit, cooked options, juice, hot drinks Lunch: selection of breads, sandwich fillings, fruit, muesli bars, chocolate, cookies, hot drinks Dinner: Varies between lodges: starter, main course (choice of 2 options), dessert Selection of New Zealand beer and wine available for purchase. Lodges & accommodation options: 1. Multishare room: 4-6 people in bunkstyle rooms with shared bathroom facilities (flush toilets & hot showers, with soap, shampoo, conditioner and towels provided). 2. Private queen room: 1-2 people in private room with queen bed and private ensuite bathroom (flush toilet & hot shower, with soap, shampoo, conditioner and towels provided) 3. Private twin room: 1-2 people in private room with two single beds and private ensuite bathroom (flush toilet & hot shower, with soap, shampoo, conditioner and towels provided) All beds have pillows and duvets, no sleeping bags are required! There is generated electricity in the lodges until 10pm each evening. All lodges have hand washing facilities, washing powder and drying rooms. Equipment It is essential that you are prepared prior to departing on your guided walk experience. A full equipment list detailing what you need to bring; including what is provided and what is available for hire and purchase follows on page 6. 02

3 Left Luggage A small bag (you may borrow one if necessary) of clothing/personal belongings for use at Mitre Peak Lodge (Milford Sound) on the final night will be sent by road from Queenstown to await your arrival. Any further luggage should be stored at your hotel. It is advised that, for this reason, you stay at the same hotel after your walk as you stayed in before walking. Please note that because of weight restrictions on our coaches, excess luggage cannot be transported. Special options You will be given the option to fly back from Milford Sound to Queenstown by helicopter. This is a fantastic experience and a chance to see the spectacular area from a different perspective. Please note that the helicopter transfer option is entirely weather dependent and therefore, although we ask for an indication of interest, we cannot take reservations for this component prior to departure. You will be asked to pay at Mitre Peak Lodge in Milford Sound once the flight has been confirmed. Guides & Safety Your guides are trained outdoor enthusiasts who will explain all there is to know about the area. They pride themselves on their safe, efficient and friendly service and provide everything from a hot drink at lunch to an evening briefing on the next day's walk. They are trained in first aid and are in constant radio contact with each other, the lodges and our Queenstown/Te Anau/ Mt Cook bases. Your safety is of paramount importance and our guides may have to adapt the day depending upon fitness levels and weather or track conditions. Whilst they will make every effort to meet your needs, you must please adhere to their professional decisions if required. In some cases, the fully funded New Zealand Government accident compensation scheme know as ACC (the Accident Compensation Corporation) will cover medical and other costs related to a personal injury incurred while in New Zealand. However, Ultimate Hikes cannot guarantee that such costs will be covered by ACC, and HIGHLY RECOMMEND you to carry your own medical/travel insurance while on our walk to cover medical and related costs (eg helicopter off the track, hospital care, accommodation, missed flights, etc). Weather, track conditions & fitness requirements We cannot stress enough how changeable and unpredictable the weather is in this region. Please be prepared for every eventuality (it is not uncommon to experience snow in the middle of summer) and to adhere to our equipment list. Our walks are neither easy nor difficult as each walker will have a different experience/expectation depending upon previous experience and fitness level. They are a challenge which people of all ages and abilities will relish. To enjoy your experience, you need to be able to carry a backpack (5-7kg/10-14lbs) for 4-8 hours over 10-21km (6-13miles) of sometimes uneven track each day. We encourage you to walk at your own pace, it is not a race and we want you to enjoy it. There is no pressure to keep up with the fastest walkers and there is always a guide at the rear of the group. The track surface varies from smooth, well formed paths to rough terrain broken by rocks & tree roots. There are steep rocky downhill sections and clients may have to cross small streams and wade in deep water after heavy rain. We recommend that you wear hiking boots, which provide firm ankle support. Walking poles are also recommended and available for hire. A reasonable level of fitness is required and if you are not a regular walker, we suggest that you begin a daily walking regime 6-8 weeks prior to departure. You should gradually increase the distance that you walk, carrying a backpack. Staircase or hill-climbing will leave you better prepared. 03

4 Milford Track guided walk itinerary Day prior to departure: Pre-track briefing Please check in at the Ultimate Hikes Centre, Ground Floor, The Station Building at 4:45pm on the day prior to your departure. Here we will give you a complete outline of what to expect, provide equipment, give you an opportunity to purchase last minute required items, you will fill out required medical forms and we can answer any queries that you may have. Day 1 - Queenstown to Glade House 1.6km (1mile) 20mins walking lunch & dinner The adventure begins at our Queenstown office where you board a coach to Te Anau, arriving in time for lunch and a group photo. From Te Anau Downs harbour, a launch takes you up to the head of Lake Te Anau. From the wharf it's a short walk to the historic Glade House for afternoon tea. Afterwards the guides take you on a short nature walk to explore the area. After a hot shower and three-course meal it's time to get some rest in the snug beds either in the multi-share bunk rooms or private ensuite rooms. Glade House Day 2 - Glade House to Pompolona Lodge 16km (10miles) 5-7 hours walking breakfast, lunch & dinner After crossing the emerald green Clinton River you walk up the valley to the Hirere Falls lunch shelter. The beech forest gets more luxuriant the farther you go, until it releases you on to the Prairie. From this meadow you can capture the true nature of the ice-carved Clinton Canyon. It is a short climb to Pompolona Lodge from here. Hirere Falls Day 3 - Pompolona Lodge to Quintin Lodge 15km (9miles) 6-8 hours walking breakfast, lunch & dinner This is the most demanding day, especially in inclement weather. The track leads to Lake Mintaro at the head of the Clinton Valley, before climbing the Mackinnon Pass in a series of zigzags. Take your time and enjoy the views. At the top you will be rewarded with spectacular panorama and lunch in Pass Hut. After the rocky descent into the Arthur Valley you will welcome a hot cup of tea at Quintin Lodge. This should be enough to refresh you for the optional 90 minute round trip to the Sutherland Falls, the world's fifth highest waterfall. Mackinnon Pass 04

5 Milford Track guided walk itinerary continued Day 4 - Quinton Lodge to Mitre Peak 21km (13miles) 6-8 hours walking breakfast, lunch & dinner You walk down the Arthur Valley to Boatshed; after a short break you will continue on past Mackay Falls and Bell Rock (which was carved out of the river during a particularly violent flood) and on to the lunch spot at Giant's Gate waterfall. The final stretch of track follows tranquil Lake Ada to Sandfly Point. From here it is a short launch trip to the renowned Mitre Peak Lodge, your accommodation at Milford Sound offering superb views of Mitre Peak, often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world. Here you will enjoy a celebratory dinner while relaxing with the knowledge that the hard part is now behind you while the magnificence of Milford Sound is right in front of you. Day 5- Milford Sound to Queenstown no walking breakfast & lunch Wake to the tranquillity of Fiordland and after breakfast experience a magical cruise on Milford Sound. Watch for the dolphins and fur seals and pray for rain, as you've only seen Fiordland at its most incredible when the waterfalls are in full flow. Following the cruise it's time to head back to Queenstown. There are two options: (1) travel by coach through the heart of Fiordland National Park, through the Homer Tunnel and beyond or (2) take a helicopter transfer across Mt Aspiring National Park back to Queenstown. Sit back and let the pilot show you another perspective of the World Heritage Area. Look down upon rugged peaks, sheer canyons and alpine lakes, the perfect complement to your experience on the 'finest walk in the world'. The flight option is available at an additional cost and is dependent upon the weather. 05

6 Advised equipment list The following is a list of essential equipment that you are required to bring on your multiday guided walk. Many items can be purchased at reasonable prices from the Ultimate Hikes Centre in Queenstown to reduce the need for you to carry them throughout your holiday. Walking We can supply free of charge: 40 litre back pack This can be collected at the pre-track briefing; there are plenty of packs for use so they do not need to be reserved. You can provide your own if preferred. Waterproof raincoat (with hood) This can be collected at the pre-track briefing and does not need to be reserved. You can provide your own if preferred. We only advise taking one set of clothing to walk in, the more that is taken, the more that must be carried. All of our lodges have hand washing and drying facilities so clothing can be washed and dried overnight. Walking boots or sturdy shoes Broken in, preferably with ankle support. We advise that the boot condition is checked prior to coming to the pretrack briefing. Please also ensure that they are clean when coming through customs in New Zealand. We do not sell walking boots/shoes in our retail outlet. Merino wool or polypropylene thermal underwear (top and bottom). Fundamental clothing that can be worn either as a base layer or as a single layer. Polypropylene and merino wool clothing is available for purchase in the Ultimate Hikes Centre. Polar fleece or merino wool jacket. An ideal outer layer in cold weather. Available for purchase in an assortment of weights and colours. Micro fleece or merino wool long-sleeved top. Lightweight, warm and quick-drying, this is an ideal layer to be worn on top of thermal underwear. Available for purchase in an assortment of weights and colours. T-shirt. Ideal for fine weather. Available for purchase in a selection of customised styles. Sunhat, warm hat, gloves. Be prepared for sun and cold. Large range available for purchase. Shorts/walking trousers Fast drying shorts or trousers (NOT JEANS). Nylon ottoman shorts and trousers, zip-off trousers and waterproof over-trousers available for purchase. Two pairs of merino wool or thermal socks. Main consideration is warmth and comfort. A variety available for purchase. Sunscreen, insect repellent, water bottle and camera. The essentials that go without saying. Optional: Walking poles: We strongly advise all walkers use walking poles, especially if you find difficulty walking up or down gradients. Available for hire or purchase from the Ultimate Hikes Centre. Foot fleece: Advised to prevent blisters, available to purchase from the Ultimate Hikes Centre Gaiters: For extra foot protection during wet weather Swim suit: For the brave! Spare laces: Just in case. Evening Attire We can supply free of charge: Sleep sheet These are collected at the pre-track briefing, however clients can provide their own if preferred. A change of clothes is required for the lodges and for sleeping in. Remember the more that is taken, the heavier the pack is to carry. The lodges are very warm and therefore only require lightweight clothing. Lightweight shirt or sweater Lightweight trousers or tracksuit pants Lightweight shoes or sandals Nightwear Personal toiletries (soap, shampoo and conditioner are provided) 2306

7 Frequently asked questions Will I be fit enough? To enjoy your experience, you need to be able to carry a backpack (5-7kg/10-14lbs) for 4-8 hours over 10-21km (6-13miles) of sometimes uneven track each day. We encourage everyone to walk at their own pace, it is not a race and we want you to enjoy it. There is no pressure to keep up with the fastest walkers and there is always a guide at the rear of the group. The track surface varies from smooth, well formed paths to rough terrain broken by rocks & tree roots. There are steep rocky downhill sections and clients may have to cross small streams and wade in deep water after heavy rain. We recommend that you wear hiking boots, which provide firm ankle support. Walking poles are also recommended and available for hire. A reasonable level of fitness is required and if you are not regular walkers, we suggest that you begin a daily walking regime 6-8 weeks prior to departure. You should gradually increase the distance that you walk, carrying a backpack. Staircase or hill-climbing will leave you better prepared. What weather should I expect in the month that I am walking? The unpredictable nature of the weather in this region means that snow, high winds and rain can occur at any time of the year. It is therefore very important to be prepared for the worst weather conditions and carry the appropriate clothing at all times. November & December the mountain lilies are just coming out and there is still snow on the surrounding mountains. Generally January & February are warmer but not necessarily dryer. March generally has fresh mornings, sunny days and cooler nights with shorter days. How heavy will my pack be? It's likely to be approximately 5-7 kg (10-14lbs) if you follow our equipment list guidelines. Do I have to carry my pack or do you transport it? You carry your own pack from lodge to lodge. We do not offer a service for transporting your luggage. What clothing do I need to bring? Please refer to equipment list. Can I wash my clothes? All lodges have hand washing facilities with soap and drying rooms. Being able to wash and dry clothing helps keep the pack weight down. Do I have to bring all my clothing with me from my original destination? We will lend you a raincoat. If you do not wish to bring all your clothing or do not have a particular item, we have a very reasonably priced shop in Queenstown where items can be purchased prior to your departure. Where should I leave my excess baggage while I am walking? We do not store spare luggage or park cars; this must be arranged with your pre/post track accommodation (it is therefore advised to book with the same accommodation provider pre/post track). NB on the Milford track / Classic: a small bag can be borrowed for clothing for use at Milford Sound and will be sent by road from Queenstown to await your arrival at Mirte Peak Lodge. What time do I arrive back in Queenstown? All multiday walks arrive back at the Station Building at approximately 4pm. This arrival time may connect with some flights from Queenstown. Milford Track walkers can finish at Queenstown Airport if required. How bad are the sandflies? Notably worse on the Milford Track, we recommend wearing insect repellent each day. This can be purchased from our shop. Where can I park my vehicle? Generally the hotels/motels where you are staying will allow you to park your vehicle whilst you are on the track, if you are staying there on your return. It would however pay to confirm this with your accommodation. Is there alcohol on the track? New Zealand beer, wine and soft drinks are available for purchase at the lodges. These are paid for at the final lodge on your walk. What about special dietary requirements'? Vegetarian meals can be provided on all tracks. We will endeavour to cater for your exact dietary requirement within reason, however please remember we are in an extremely isolated and challenging environment. How many people share the bunkrooms? Bunkrooms sleep 4-6 people with shared bathroom facilities. Private rooms are available on the Milford Track with either a queen-sized bed or twin beds and their own ensuite bathroom. Please request these as they sell very quickly. I will be travelling by myself, is that a problem? No problem. It is a great opportunity to walk with like-minded individuals from around the world. What are the toilet facilities on the tracks? All our lodges have flush toilets. There are toilets (some flush, some Kiwi long drop style!) at all our lunch shelters and lodges. 07

8 Ultimate Hikes New Zealand You may also like... Multiday Walks Grand Traverse Guided Walk Popular with those with an adventurous spirit; combining the peaceful Greenstone Valley Track and the alpine vistas of the Routeburn Track results in the stunning 6 day/ 5 night, Queenstown to Queenstown allinclusive Grand Traverse guided walk. Routeburn Track Guided Walk The award-winning alpine adventure; the Routeburn Track guided walk is a 3 day/2 night Queenstown to Queenstown all inclusive package that traverses the heart of the Fiordland and Mt Aspiring National Parks. The Classic Guided Walk For those that want to do it all; the 'Classic' combination. The Milford and Routeburn guided walks are put together along with an overnight stay in Te Anau for the 8 day/7 night Queenstown to Queenstown all-inclusive Classic guided walk. Encounter Guided Day Walks Milford Track Guided Day Walk Departing from Te Anau: a gentle informative nature walk on the famous Milford Track stopping at the historic Glade House Lodge for a scrumptious lunch and a browse around the small museum. Includes boat to and from the start of the track. Routeburn Track Guided Day Walk Departing from Queenstown: learn about the human and physical history of the beautiful Routeburn valley whilst either opting for a leisurely walk to Routeburn Flats or a more challenging walk to Routeburn Falls Lodge for lunch and a chance to experience fantastic views of the valley below. Aoraki Mt Cook Guided Day Walk Departing from the historic Hermitage Hotel: explore the stunning surrounds of Oceana's tallest peak whilst learning about summit attempts over the years and the fascinating geomorphological history that has formed the extraordinary environment that is Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. A peaceful walk up the Hooker Valley.