All of the following tours can be booked through the Activities Desk of the Hermitage Hotel. Prices are in New Zealand Dollars including GST, and may be subject to change without notice.
Enquiries can be sent to activities.desk@hermitage.co.nz or Free Phone: 0800 68 68 00 for more information.
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Glacier Explorers Glacier Explorers takes you on an amazing up close encounter with New Zealand’s largest glacier, the Tasman Glacier. Depart from The Hermitage and journey to the beautiful Tasman Valley by coach where your guide will take you on a gentle half hour stroll through the moraine to the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake. From here you will board a boat which will take you on a one and a half hour cruise through a fascinating glacial landscape dotted with icebergs and the ever-changing ice face of the glacier. An incredibly dynamic natural environment, the glacier and icebergs are always on the move - melting and rolling. The boat passes so close to the icebergs you can touch them! Glacier Explorers guides are extensively trained and thoroughly enjoy sharing their knowledge and passion for this amazing alpine environment. Spectacular views of the mountains, some of the best photographic opportunities in the national park and an engaging guide commentary make this trip a must. Glacier Explorers is the only company permitted to operate in this area. Locally owned and operated, it has been proudly sharing the region with visitors since 1993.www.glacierexplorers.com
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Glacier Sea Kayaking
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Stargazing Renowned for being one of New Zealand’s best stargazing spots, hotel guests can explore the southern night sky from the Hillary Deck with expert astronomy guides. Telescopes, binoculars, and star charts are also provided for those wanting a closer look. Guides John Dunlop and Leigh Findlay both have star-studded astronomy backgrounds, which include working at Stardome Observatory, and a wealth of experience as educators. Fifty-five year old John holds a Masters in Education (Science) and a Bachelor of Forestry Science. A school teacher for many years, he has written a number of teaching resources and articles including the NZ Herald astronomy column, presented at conferences, and been consulted as an astronomy media expert on numerous occasions. Leigh, 47, spent the last six years working for Auckland’s Stardome Observatory, specialising in the development and presentation of entertaining and educational astronomy sessions to the public, school groups, tours and corporate groups. Please enquire at the Activities Desk for stargazing times, or to advise of large group attendance. |
Alpine Guides
Alpine Guides is New Zealand's longest established mountain and ski guiding company. The mentor for most of New Zealand’s leading mountain guides, it continues to be at the forefront of guides' development and training. The company's local roots span from the early guiding era of the 1880s to the present day. Its history has always been intertwined with The Hermitage. From the 1880s the Hermitage guides established a tradition of professional service, technical skill and judgement. They built a national guiding ethos which remains today. Those guides eventually formalised their business with the creation of Alpine Instruction Ltd in the 1950s which morphed into Alpine Guides Limited in 1967. Alpine Guides is based in the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
Alpine Guides Trekking
Guided day walks (with English speaking guides) operate within the National Park daily from November to March. This walk offers breathtaking views of some of New Zealand’s highest and most stunning peaks. The trip consists of two walks covering both Alpine and Bush scenery and the guides can enrich your journey by sharing their knowledge of the history and environment in which the National Park exists. A full days trekking costs $110 per adult and $70 per child (10-15 years) including transport to and from the beginning of the walk, a packed lunch, sunscreen & insect repellent and free loan of day packs & waterproof jackets if required. ( www.ultimatehikes.co.nz )
Skiing and Wilderness Heliskiing
For the ultimate winter adventure, experience backcountry skiing around majestic Aoraki Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain. From The Hermitage, Alpine Guides takes skiers on a high-alpine adventure encompassing the stunning Tasman Glacier. Alpine Guides has exclusive access to the superb heliskiing terrain in this area and is the only operator able to offer heliskiing within the boundaries of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park (www.heliskiing.co.nz). Nearby ski fields Ohau and Roundhill are a day trip from the hotel, while wilderness heliskiing for many is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Glentanner Horse Trekking
Glentanner Horse Trekking offers guided treks on a high country sheep station for beginners and more experienced riders. The treks vary in length from 1/2 an hour to 3 hours, offering great views of Mount Cook and Lake Pukaki. Treks operate on demand from November through till April, bookings are essential as availability may vary. Safety Helmets are provided for all riders. Sensible footwear to be worn. Children from 10 years and above, or can be negotiable depending on previous experience. Prices are per person, 1/2 hour $35.00 , 1 hour $50.00 , 2 hours $70.00 and 3 hours $120.00 (min 1 pax) or $90.00 per person (min 2 pax).( www.glentanner.co.nz)
Mount Cook Skiplanes
Mount Cook Ski Planes is the only company licensed to land in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park on the Tasman Glacier. The flights take you from Aoraki Mount Cook Airport or Franz Josef directly into the heart of the Southern Alps including Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak at over 3750m and the Tasman Glacier, one of the longest glaciers in the world. After an awe inspiring flight through breathtaking scenery your ski equipped aircraft lands on one of the glaciers in the Mount Cook or Westland National Park, the engine is stopped, and you alight onto the glacier where climbers would take hours or days to reach. ( www.mtcookskiplanes.com)
Air Safaris
Air Safaris has built up a fleet of aircraft which are designed especially for flight-seeing. Every seat is a comfortable window seat and all aircraft are high winged, providing the best possible views and photographic opportunities. Flight prices begin at $260 for adults and $160 for children. ( www.airsafaris.co.nz)
The Helicopter Line
New Zealand’s leading helicopter company operates a fleet of modern jet helicopters based near the Mount Cook village. The scenic vistas from these agile craft will take your breath away as you discover that the beauty of the Mount Cook National Park, glaciers and lakes is often best seen from above. Prices begin at $190 .( www.helicopter.co.nz )
Braemar Station
Try GolfCross at Braemar Station's High-Country course. NZ style golf with goals instead of holes and the revolutionary oval ball that gives you the control of a pro.( www.golfcross.com)
Discovery Tours
Vernon Reid - Manager: “Kia Ora (Welcome) to Aoraki/ Mount Cook National Park. I started Discovery Tours in 2001 to provide you with a flexible guiding service that included a range of local activities and knowledgeable guides that will go the ‘extra mile’. As guides my team and I gain great enjoyment and satisfaction aiding your discovery of the magic that surrounds the beautiful Aoraki / Mount Cook and Mackenzie area. As you participate in adventures and activities that will enhance your appreciation of this diverse environment, you too will find the same high level of enjoyment & satisfaction as we do! I offer you my skills as a hiker, mountain biker, climber and fisherman with my extensive knowledge and passion for the environment, combined with a successful background of customer focused careers as a Guide, Concierge and Park Ranger, to provide you with a range of opportunities to match activities you like with adventures you seek. I look forward to meeting you and providing that once in a life time Alpine experience.”
Website: www.discoverytours.co.nz
Email: vernon@discoverytours.co.nz
Alan’ s 4WD Tours
4WD adventure into the mountains with close-up views of the Tasman Glacier. Your friendly guide will provide informative commentary on all that can be seen outside. Trips cost $110 for adults and $60 for children, and operate from October through till April. Alan also offers argo tours - 8 wheel all terrain vehicle $110 adult $60 child.( www.mountcooktours.co.nz )
Glentanner Station
At Glentanner Park Centre, you'll find a modern purpose built visitor centre with friendly and knowledgeable staff. You'll also find a restaurant and cafeteria, for a light snack or a substantial meal. The restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch all year round with evening dining during summer. Partake in one of the many fantastic adventures that leave from the centre or just relax and enjoy the world-renowned scenery.( www.glentanner.co.nz)
* Tennis racquets and balls may be hired from the Activities desk at the Hermitage and Court facilities are available free of charge.
