Tekapo
High Country Hike
Guided overnight hiking in the Two Thumb Range
Summer Adventures Trek Two Thumb Range Hike Tekapo Alpine Treks & HikesTekapo High Country Hike
Tekapo High Country Hike
Guided overnight hiking in the Two Thumb Range
Step beyond the shores of Lake Tekapo and into the Mackenzie High Country on a guided overnight hike in the Two Thumb Range.
This is an accessible alpine adventure combining open high-country landscapes, conservation land, spectacular ridgelines, expansive views towards the Southern Alps, and a night in Alpine Recreation’s own Rex Simpson Hut, high above Lake Tekapo.
The hike to the hut takes around three hours, climbing from high-country farmland into the Te Kahui Kaupeka Conservation Park. From the hut, you can explore further into the Two Thumb Range, including the long rising climb up Snake Ridge and Beuzenberg Peak at 2070m, with views opening progressively across the Mackenzie Basin and towards Aoraki / Mount Cook and the Main Divide of the Southern Alps.
Choose a 1.5 or 2.5-day itinerary depending on how much time you have and how far you want to explore. The shorter option combines the hike to Rex Simpson Hut with a full day hike up Snake Ridge and Beuzenberg Peak. The longer option gives you more time to enjoy the mountains, with the opportunity to visit the historic Camp Stream Musterers’ Hut before returning to Lake Tekapo.
At the end of each day, return to a warm, comfortable private hut. Rex Simpson Hut is fully stocked with food, firewood, sleeping bags and everything needed for a night in the mountains, so you can keep your pack light. At 1300m, Rex Simpson Hut sits in a superb location above Lake Tekapo. During the day, the surrounding mountains provide a spectacular backdrop, while at night the hut’s elevated position offers some of the best opportunities for stargazing in the region.
Let us take care of the logistics, transport, equipment, meals and accommodation, leaving you to enjoy the Mackenzie mountains. With more than 40 years of guiding experience in the Mackenzie High Country, Alpine Recreation is one of New Zealand’s premier mountain guiding and alpine hiking operations, and the longest-established in the Tekapo region.
This is Lake Tekapo hiking with the comfort and simplicity of a professionally guided mountain adventure.
More than 40 years in the Mackenzie High Country
Alpine Recreation has been guiding in the mountains around Lake Tekapo for more than 40 years. The Two Thumb Range is one of our home ranges, and Rex Simpson Hut has been part of our guiding operation since it was built in 1985.
Rex Simpson Hut was established specifically as a base for mountain recreation and guiding in the Lake Tekapo High Country. Since then, it has provided a warm and comfortable base for generations of skiers, hikers, snowshoers and adventurers exploring the surrounding mountains.
Today, the same hut provides the base for our guided Tekapo High Country Hikes. The landscape around it has been sculpted by glaciers: open tussock ridges, high alpine peaks, expansive views across Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps, and some of the clearest night skies in New Zealand.
Our friendly and knowledgeable guides know the Two Thumb Range through all seasons and conditions. They bring professional mountain qualifications, extensive experience and a detailed understanding of the local terrain, weather and routes. That local knowledge matters when you’re travelling beyond formed walking tracks and into genuine high-country terrain.
The Tekapo High Country Hike is an opportunity to experience this landscape without having to organise a multi-day expedition yourself. We provide the transport, equipment, accommodation and food, while your guide takes care of the route and shares the history and character of the mountains along the way.
If you're visiting during the winter months, you can also do this hike as a Lake Tekapo Snowshoeing Adventure or as Lake Tekapo Nordic Ski Touring.
Rex Simpson Hut
Rex Simpson Hut sits at an altitude of 1300m in the Two Thumb Range. It is located in a beautiful setting, with great views of the Southern Alps and vistas over Lake Tekapo across the Mackenzie Basin.
Privately Owned
The hut is privately owned and operated by Alpine Recreation and provides a warm, comfortable base for our guided hiking, snowshoeing, and ski touring trips, as well as the perfect classroom for our avalanche, backcountry ski, and alpine navigation instruction courses.
Easy Access
No aircraft required: The hut can be reached in 3 hours walking from the road end and is located at 1300m, in a beautiful setting, with great views of the Southern Alps and out over Lake Tekapo across the Mackenzie Basin.
Fully Equipped
The hut is equipped with firewood, gas, solar lighting, sleeping bags, bunks, pillows and mattresses, and nonperishable food. A wood-fired stove means there are good heating and drying facilities. This significantly reduces the amount you need to carry into the mountains. Our guides prepare the meals during guided trips, so you can finish a day in the mountains, settle in beside the fire and enjoy a proper meal without having to carry a full expedition pack.
Facilities
The hut consists of three rooms, sleeping up to 13 participants and 2 guides in total. There are no showers, but warm water and a basin can be provided for washing or you can find a private spot somewhere along the alpine stream. The toilet is a traditional longdrop loo with a view!
Star-gazing
Its elevated position makes Rex Simpson Hut particularly special after dark. With Lake Tekapo stretching out below and very little artificial light nearby, the hut is an excellent place to experience the region’s renowned night skies, with the Lake Tekapo region part of the International Dark Sky Reserve.
Over 40 years of history
Rex Simpson Hut is more than accommodation. It is Alpine Recreation’s long-established base in the Two Thumb Range and has been part of our mountain guiding operation for more than 40 years.
We recommend settling guiding dates well in advance since peak season times are often booked up. Please allow extra time in case you are held up in the mountains due to weather.
| Dates | Spaces |
|---|---|
| 9 - 11 Nov 2026 | 6 |
| 13 - 15 Nov 2026 | 6 |
| 21 - 22 Nov 2026 | 6 |
| 27 - 29 Nov 2026 | 6 |
| 5 - 6 Dec 2026 | 6 |
| 11 - 13 Dec 2026 | 6 |
| 11 - 13 Dec 2026 | 3 guaranteed departure |
| 28 - 30 Dec 2026 | 2 limited spaces |
| 30 Dec 2026 2026 - 2 Jan 2027 1 January 2027 New Year's Day, 2 January 2027 Day after New Year's Day | N/A private group |
| 2 - 4 Jan 2027 2 January 2027 Day after New Year's Day | 6 |
| 8 - 10 Jan 2027 | 6 |
| 16 - 17 Jan 2027 | 4 guaranteed departure |
| 22 - 24 Jan 2027 | 6 |
| 30 - 31 Jan 2027 | 6 |
| 5 - 7 Feb 2027 6 February 2027 Waitangi Day | 6 |
| 13 - 14 Feb 2027 | 6 |
| 19 - 21 Feb 2027 | 6 |
| 27 - 28 Feb 2027 | 6 |
| 5 - 7 Mar 2027 | 6 |
| 13 - 14 Mar 2027 | 6 |
| 19 - 21 Mar 2027 | 6 |
| 27 - 28 Mar 2027 | 6 |
| 2 - 4 Apr 2027 | 6 |
| 10 - 11 Apr 2027 | 6 |
| 16 - 18 Apr 2027 | 6 |
| 24 - 26 Apr 2027 25 April 2027 ANZAC Day | 6 |
| 30 Apr 2027 - 2 May 2027 | 6 |
| Updated: 19 September 2026 at 1:45 pm | |
Standard bookings
Loyalty discount: If you have been on an Alpine Recreation trip before, you will be eligible for 5% off the standard trip price (does not apply to any already discounted prices).
| Standard Price | 1.5 days price per person | 2.5 days price per person |
|---|---|---|
| Individual bookings group size | NZ$705 2 - 6 per guide * | NZ$1075 2 - 6 per guide * |
Please read the information on minimum and maximum group sizes below.
Group discounts: get a group of family and friends together and book as a group. The amount of discount you will be eligible for, will depend on the group size - the more people you book, the more your discount will be. If our scheduled dates don't suit your group's travel plans, please contact us so we can reschedule a trip to suit (subject to guide availability).
Please note that group bookings are not private bookings - if you wish to keep your group closed and have a private guide just for your group, a surcharge will apply.
| Group Discounts | 1.5 days price per person | 2.5 days price per person |
|---|---|---|
| Group booking of 3 | NZ$670.00 2 - 6 per guide | NZ$1,025.00 2 - 6 per guide |
| Group booking of 4 | NZ$670.00 2 - 6 per guide | NZ$1,025.00 2 - 6 per guide |
| Group booking of 5 | NZ$635.00 2 - 6 per guide | NZ$970.00 2 - 6 per guide |
| Group booking of 6 | NZ$635.00 2 - 6 per guide | NZ$970.00 2 - 6 per guide |
| Group booking of 7 | NZ$670.00 2 - 6 per guide | NZ$1,025.00 2 - 6 per guide |
| Group booking of 8 | NZ$650.00 2 - 6 per guide | NZ$990.00 2 - 6 per guide |
| Group booking of 9 | NZ$650.00 2 - 6 per guide | NZ$990.00 2 - 6 per guide |
| Group booking of 10 | NZ$635.00 2 - 6 per guide | NZ$970.00 2 - 6 per guide |
| Group booking of 11 | NZ$635.00 2 - 6 per guide | NZ$970.00 2 - 6 per guide |
| Group booking of 12 | NZ$635.00 2 - 6 per guide | NZ$970.00 2 - 6 per guide |
Deposit Payment
A non-refundable per-person deposit is payable to secure a booking:
- NZ$300.00
The remaining balance of the trip price (including any applicable discounts) is due 60 days prior to departure. If you are booking within 60 days of the trip start, the full amount will be due.
Booking conditionsInclusions & Exclusions
All prices include the following:
- Guide
- Department of Conservation licence fees
- Heated PRIVATE hut accommodation
- Local accommodation for any nights required during the trip
- Ground transport (Tekapo - Mt. Gerald return)
- ALL meals (including snacks & energy bars) for the duration of the trip
- ALL trekking equipment
The following items are NOT included:
- Meals and accommodation before / after the trip are NOT included
Minimum & Maximum Group Size
A minimum number of 2 participants is required to run this trip. If you end up being the only person booked on the trip, you will be offered the choice of:
- paying an additional fee to run the trip at a reduced guide-to-guest ratio
( NZ$460.00 for 1.5 days, NZ$700.00 for 2.5 days ) - rescheduling to another trip/date
- a full refund
A maximum number of 6 participants per guide is defined by our safety management plan. For groups larger than this, it is usually possible to allocate additional guides.
Difficulty Ratings
Endurance: 2 - Slightly challenging
A good level of aerobic fitness is expected. Suitable for people who regularly undertake multi-day hiking/trekking/tramping trips. Must be comfortable carrying a light backpack (5-8 kg) for 4-6 hours. Expect ascents of 500-800 vertical metres.
Agility: 1 - Basic hiking/trekking agility
Hiking on unmarked routes in sub-alpine terrain. Able to move efficiently on uneven terrain with steps, rocks, tree roots etc. while carrying a light backpack. No scrambling or technical equipment required. Little or no exposure.
Trip Difficulty Ratings - more infoPrevious Experience
The Tekapo High Country Hike is one of our more accessible multi-day alpine trips, but it is still a genuine backcountry hike. The route includes sustained climbing, untracked terrain and long days in the mountains.
If you are relatively new to tramping, then this is an ideal introduction, especially for families — our experienced guides will lead you across the route safely.
Ideal previous experience includes:
- Day hikes on hills with sustained ascents and descents.
- Multi-day tramping trips, carrying a pack with your own gear.
- Confidence walking on uneven trails, rocky or muddy slopes, and open tussock country.
You should be comfortable hiking for 4–6 hours with a light pack and handling uneven tussock, rocky and occasionally steep terrain. The Beuzenberg Peak day is considerably longer, at around 8–9 hours.
Is This Trip Right for Me?
✅ I enjoy hiking for 4–6 hours a day, carrying my own pack.
✅ I have completed day hikes or multi-day tramps over rough or uneven trails.
✅ I’m comfortable walking up and down hills with sustained elevation gain and loss.
✅ I’m happy hiking in remote alpine terrain, sometimes without a formed trail.
✅ I’m prepared for changing mountain weather, including cold, wind, and rain.
✅ I have a good level of cardiovascular fitness and leg strength.
✅ I’m looking for an authentic New Zealand backcountry experience, away from crowds.
✅ I have a positive attitude, enjoy teamwork, and love a good adventure!
Recommended Fitness Training
The Tekapo High Country Hike is a slightly challenging alpine trek, suited to hikers with good general fitness and a love of the outdoors. You'll be carrying a pack, hiking over varied terrain including tussock grasslands, rocky ridges, and rolling high-country hills. Some steep ascents and descents are part of the adventure, so being well-prepared will make your experience much more enjoyable.
We recommend:
- Aerobic Fitness: Aim for activities like jogging, brisk hiking, cycling, or swimming for 45–60 minutes, 3–5 times per week. Build up your endurance to be comfortable with sustained activity over 4–6 hours at a time.
- Pack Training: Get used to hiking with a loaded pack. Start with 5kg and gradually build up to 8kg. Take your pack on local walks or hills to simulate the trekking conditions.
- Hill Workouts: Include uphill hiking, stair climbing, or using a treadmill set at an incline. Strengthen your legs for sustained climbs and descents.
- Strength & Core Training: Incorporate squats, lunges, step-ups, and core exercises (like planks) 2–3 times per week. A strong core and legs will help with stability and endurance on uneven ground.
- Flexibility & Mobility: Stretching regularly and practices like yoga can help with balance, flexibility, and injury prevention.
The better your fitness, the more energy you’ll have to enjoy the sweeping views, the serenity of the high country, and the satisfaction of reaching the hut.
Train well — and the Tekapo High Country will reward you with an unforgettable alpine journey!
Route Information
Rex Simpson Hut + Snake Ridge & Beuzenberg Peak
| Gear Check | Start Time | End Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1:00 pm | 1:00 pm | 5:00 pm |
Day 1 — Lake Tekapo to Rex Simpson Hut
Meet your guide at Alpine Recreation's Edelweiss Lodge, 8 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo at the above start time for a gear check, before travelling to the start of the hike in the Two Thumb Range.
The hiking begins across high-country farmland before entering Te Kahui Kaupeka Conservation Park. From the end of the farm track, the route climbs steadily through tussock country towards Rex Simpson Hut at 1300m.
The hike takes approximately 3 hours and involves around 550m of ascent, with some steep sections. The terrain is straightforward but is typical of New Zealand high country, with uneven ground, small stream crossings, some mud and loose rock, and sections of open tussock.
Arrive at Rex Simpson Hut in the afternoon and settle into your mountain base. Your guide prepares dinner while you can relax beside the wood stove and enjoy the views across Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains.
As night falls, the hut’s elevated position provides an excellent vantage point for sunset across Lake Tekapo, and stargazing once it's dark.
Approximately 3 hours hiking | 550m ascent
Day 2 — Hike along Snake Ridge and Beuzenberg Peak
After breakfast, set out from Rex Simpson Hut to explore the Two Thumb Range.
The route climbs the 6km long "Snake Ridge" towards Beuzenberg Peak at 2070m. As you gain height, the views expand across Lake Tekapo and the Mackenzie Basin towards the Southern Alps and Aoraki / Mount Cook.
As you hike higher the splendour of the Southern Alps unfolds with the East Face of Aoraki / Mount Cook dominating the western skyline. To the northeast Braun-Elwert Peak, named after Alpine Recreation's founder, watches your progress up Snake Ridge.
Snake Ridge was formed by ice-age glaciation and is part of the Te Araroa Trail section from Mesopotamia Station to Lake Tekapo. Stag Saddle, below Beuzenberg Peak, is the highest point of the Te Araroa.
Unique alpine scree plants and maybe an alpine weta can be spotted if you're observant. In spring you may still encounter patches of snow near the summit. Early summer the tussock will be interspersed with mountain daisies (Celmisia Lyallii). In late summer the red berries of Little Mountain Heath (Pentachondra Pumila) dot the ground, along with white and pink snowberries.
Return to Rex Simpson Hut before descending to the road end and travelling back to Tekapo.
Approximately 8–10 hours hiking | Beuzenberg Peak 2070m
Route Information
Rex Simpson Hut + Snake Ridge & Beuzenberg Peak + Camp Stream Musterers' Hut
| Gear Check | Start Time | End Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10:00 am | 10:00 am | 1:00 pm |
Day 1 — Lake Tekapo to Rex Simpson Hut
Meet your guide at Alpine Recreation's Edelweiss Lodge, 8 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo at the above start time for a gear check, before travelling to the start of the hike in the Two Thumb Range.
The hiking begins across high-country farmland before entering Te Kahui Kaupeka Conservation Park. From the end of the farm track, the route climbs steadily through tussock country towards Rex Simpson Hut at 1300m.
The hike takes approximately 3 hours and involves around 550m of ascent, with some steep sections. The terrain is straightforward but is typical of New Zealand high country, with uneven ground, small stream crossings, some mud and loose rock, and sections of open tussock.
Arrive at Rex Simpson Hut in the afternoon and settle into your mountain base. Your guide prepares dinner while you can relax beside the wood stove and enjoy the views across Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains.
As night falls, the hut’s elevated position provides an excellent vantage point for sunset across Lake Tekapo, and stargazing once it's dark.
Approximately 3 hours hiking | 550m ascent
Day 2 — Hike up Snake Ridge to Beuzenberg Peak
Spend a full day exploring the Two Thumb Range.
The route climbs the 6km long "Snake Ridge" towards Beuzenberg Peak at 2070m. As you gain height, the views expand across Lake Tekapo and the Mackenzie Basin towards the Southern Alps and Aoraki / Mount Cook.
As you hike higher the splendour of the Southern Alps unfolds with the East Face of Aoraki / Mount Cook dominating the western skyline. To the northeast Braun-Elwert Peak, named after Alpine Recreation's founder, watches your progress up Snake Ridge.
Snake Ridge was formed by ice-age glaciation and is part of the Te Araroa Trail section from Mesopotamia Station to Lake Tekapo. Stag Saddle, below Beuzenberg Peak, is the highest point of the Te Araroa.
Unique alpine scree plants and maybe an alpine weta can be spotted if you're observant. In spring you may still encounter patches of snow near the summit. Early summer the tussock will be interspersed with mountain daisies (Celmisia Lyallii). In late summer the red berries of Little Mountain Heath (Pentachondra Pumila) dot the ground, along with white and pink snowberries.
Return to Rex Simpson Hut at the end of the day for a second night in the mountains.
Approximately 6-8 hours hiking | Beuzenberg Peak 2070m
Day 3 — Camp Stream and the Mackenzie High Country
After breakfast, leave Rex Simpson Hut and follow the route towards Camp Stream Musterers’ Hut.
This section of the journey combines alpine scenery with a glimpse into the working history of the Mackenzie High Country. The old musterers’ hut is a reminder of the people who worked these remote valleys and ridges long before they became a destination for recreational visitors. The hut door carries part of a dog collar, dated 1898, and the interior could be reminiscent of Scott’s hut in Antarctica.
Continue through the high-country landscape before returning to the road end and travelling back to Lake Tekapo.
Approximately 4–5 hours hiking
Tekapo High Country Hike - Clothing & Equipment Checklist
Your gear check time will be provided at time of booking. Please bring as many of the items on the equipment list as you can. We can provide (at no extra charge), any of the items in list A that you are missing. Your pack with your own gear should not weigh more than 6kg. Remember that you will be adding some fresh food (bread, meat, cheese, veges) to this weight, to end up with about 8kg to carry on the first day. Reminder: all food is provided.
Sleeping bags, mattresses, pillows and hut shoes are at the hut. We provide you with a sleeping bag liner and pillow case (if you have your own sleeping bag liner, please bring it).
*1 Boots: must be well broken-in and waterproofed, with good ankle support. Please note that we stock mountaineering boots ranging from EU size 37-48; if you have feet outside this range, or prefer a lighter, softer boot, you are encouraged to bring your own, or hire boots independently from: Gnomes Alpine Sports, Darfield; Small Planet Sports, Queenstown; or MT Outdoors, Wanaka. Book any hire equipment well in advance.
*2 Blister kit: we recommend Compeed and Leukoplast - available at chemists in Christchurch, Queenstown and Wanaka.
A. Equipment which Alpine Recreation can provide if you do not have your own:
| QtyQuantity | Item | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| Hiking / Snowshoeing | ||
| 1 | backpack - 35L | |
| 1 | hiking boots | |
| 1 | trekking / hiking poles | |
| Mountaineering | ||
| 1 | gaiters to fit over trekking / mountaineering boots | |
| Personal Clothing | ||
| 1 | polypro / merino thermal leggings | |
| 1 | polypro / merino top long-sleeved | |
| 1 | synthetic / fleece jacket | |
| 1 | warm gloves / mittens | |
| 1 | waterproof hard-shell jacket must have a hood | |
| 1 | waterproof hard-shell pants full-length zip | |
| 1 | wool hat / balaclava | |
| 2 | woollen socks | |
| Sun / Wind Protection | ||
| 1 | buff / sun scarf for protecting ears & neck | |
| 1 | sun hat | |
| Overnight / Camp | ||
| 1 | headlamp with spare battery | |
| Other | ||
| 1 | waterproof pack liner to keep your gear dry | |
B. Equipment you must bring yourself/Alpine Recreation do not provide:
| QtyQuantity | Item |
|---|---|
| Personal Clothing | |
| 1 | personal underwear |
| 1 | quick-drying shirt long-sleeved, for sun protection |
| 1 | quick-drying trekking pants / shorts |
| Sun / Wind Protection | |
| 1 | sun and lip screen high UV rating for snow |
| 1 | sun glasses high UV rating for snow |
| Overnight / Camp | |
| 1 | ear plugs in case of snorers |
| 1 | toiletries please keep these to a minimum |
| Other | |
| 1 | camera |
| 1 | drink bottle wide-mouth, minimum 1.5 litres |
| 1 | personal first aid please provide your own blister kit |
| 1 | small dry bags for organising gear |
Where can I find information about visiting Lake Tekapo?
There's many things to see and do in Lake Tekapo. An afternoon hike after your arrival is a good way to stretch the legs and a soak in the Tekapo Alpine Springs is the perfect way to unwind and ease tired muscles after your mountain adventure. We've put together some helpful information on our recommended activities in Tekapo to get you started.
→ The best activities in Tekapo
What are the best day hikes and walking trails in Tekapo?
We've put together a list of Tekapo's top day hikes and walking trails. A great way to get your legs warmed up before your mountain adventure with Alpine Recreation!
→ Tekapo's best day hikes and walking trails
What are the best mountain biking and cycle trails in Tekapo?
We've put together a list of Tekapo's top mountain biking and cycle trails. A great way to get your legs warmed up before your mountain adventure with Alpine Recreation!
→ Tekapo's best bike and cycle trails
What alpine treks and multi-day hikes can I do in Tekapo?
Tekapo and the Mackenzie High Country are simply stunning places to explore. Alpine Recreation specialise in alpine treks and hikes in the Lake Tekapo region and were the first guiding operation established in Tekapo - we have been guiding in the hills and mountains surround Lake Tekapo for over 40 years! Our professional NZMGA qualified alpine trekking guides know the best places to take you - come and join us for your next Tekapo adventure.
→ Lake Tekapo alpine treks and hikes
What else can I see/do in the Lake Tekapo region?
We are located in a stunning corner of New Zealand, with quick access to many great mountain adventures. If you have spare time, it is worth spending a few extra days to check out some of the highlights.
How do I make a booking?
Simply click on Book Your Adventure, fill out the enrolment form, and pay your deposit fee. Once you have submitted your completed enrolment form and we have received your deposit payment, we will confirm your reservation on the trip. You will receive a formal confirmation receipt by email.
How can I book nights at Edelweiss Lodge & Studio?
Edelweiss Lodge accommodation options are available for participants booked on Alpine Recreation trips and courses. Please specify which room you'd like on your enrolment form at the time of booking. All accommodation bookings include a continental breakfast. Please be aware that spaces do fill up quickly and your first choice may not be available. We will let you know if this is the case.
Your scheduled dates don't work for me - what should I do?
Please contact us with your available dates. We may be able to accommodate your request.
How can I prepare for my alpine trek / mountain hike?
Check out our Preparing for Alpine Treks & Hikes article. We've put together a list of tips and tricks to help you prepare for your adventure.
What happens if we have really bad weather?
New Zealand's weather is notoriously fickle. It is possible you could be delayed getting into or out of the mountains due to the weather. For this reason, we recommend leaving 1-2 days spare at the end of your trip to avoid disruption to other travel plans. Your guide will endeavour to provide alternative activities/venues to give you the best possible experience. In some cases, if all participants and the guide have flexibility with time, it may be an option to postpone the whole trip by a day (however we cannot guarantee this option and it is at the discretion of the guide).
In many cases, the weather may not be as bad as the forecast might lead you to believe - please remember that we are used to dealing with New Zealand's weather on a regular basis and know where to go and what to do to make the most of it!
Please see our Bad Weather Policies for more information.
When is the pre-trip gear check?
All trips start with a gear check at Edelweiss Lodge, 8 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo. For your specific trip gear check and start times, please refer to the Itinerary section.
What trekking equipment do I need to bring?
Please refer to the clothing and equipment checklist in the Equipment section. Any equipment you need to borrow from us will be issued by your guide at the gear check. We can provide boots, trekking poles, outdoor clothing and packs at no extra cost if necessary.
Do I need travel insurance?
In the case of an accident, New Zealand's Accident Compensation scheme (ACC) will cover the majority of costs (about 80%) involved with evacuation and injury treatment, even for visitors to New Zealand. However, we strongly recommend taking out travel insurance, as you still need cover for things such as cancellation if an injury prevents you taking part on the trip, or a close relative suddenly becomes ill; and medical insurance in case you become ill. Many standard travel insurance policies DO NOT cover high-risk adventure activities so be sure to check the wording of your policy.
More information on New Zealand's Accident Compensation scheme (ACC).
Recommended insurance providers:
→ New Zealand Alpine Club provides mountaineering specific insurance options for New Zealand or Australian residents.
→ Austrian Alpine Club provides world-wide rescue and repatriation insurance to members.
→ World Nomads provides travel insurance for guided adventure activities.
→ Insure4less provides cover for a selection of high-risk activities for Australian residents.
Where is the best place to stay in Lake Tekapo before / after my trip?
Alpine Recreation provides accommodation at Edelweiss Lodge, 8 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo. This is also where your gear check takes place before departure. It is recommended you book the nights before and after your trip here to facilitate the gear check and to allow flexibility in case of any delay in trip start due to weather. To book your nights, simply answer the relevant questions on your trip enrolment form.
We strongly recommend that you book your accommodation well in advance, as Tekapo is a popular tourist destination and options become limited during peak season.
How do I get to / from Lake Tekapo?
Bus: If you want to reach Tekapo by bus on the same day as an international flight, currently there is no public transport option, as Intercity bus connections leave Christchurch and Queenstown early in the morning and only run on certain days of the week. Please check carefully before booking flights that might look like they could connect.
Rental car: If you plan to hire a car, you may wish to car-pool with others in your group – please email us if you'd like to arrange car-pooling.
Please make sure you have your return transport sorted well before the day your trip starts!
How do I find Edelweiss Lodge?
Please follow the Google Maps directions on our Contact Page. Note that Edelweiss Lodge is the main building with an attached garage (not the wooden cabin in front of it).
Where can I park my car?
Secure off-street parking is available by Alpine Recreation's Edelweiss Lodge. Please leave your car keys with us (in case we have to move your vehicle if someone is parked in and so you don't lose your keys on the mountain!).
What do I do with my spare gear while on the trip?
We have a gear storage room at Edelweiss Lodge for you to leave any spare bags or gear while you are on your trip.
What food is included on your trips?
We provide all meals from lunch on the first day through to lunch on the final day — you’ll be well-fed from start to finish. If your booking includes a stay at Edelweiss Lodge the night before your trip, a continental breakfast is also included, so you’re sorted from breakfast on day one.
Our meals are fresh, wholesome, and designed to keep you fuelled for long days in the mountains. Expect generous portions and hearty food that hits the spot after a big day outdoors!
Where do you source your food from?
We proudly support local producers and ethical suppliers who align with our values of quality, care, and sustainability. Some of our favourite suppliers include:
- Geraldine Cheese Company
- Southern Sky Roasters (coffee)
- Boring Milk (Plant based Milk)
- Verkerks Meats
- Cookie Time, OSM & EM's
- Pic’s Peanut Butter
- YUM granola
…and more!
Do you cater for dietary requirements?
Yes, absolutely! We can cater for a wide range of dietary needs — including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, FODMAP, and others. Just let us know on your booking form and we’ll make sure your meals are suitable and satisfying.
What if I have a food allergy?
We take food allergies seriously. Please let us know your specific allergy details when you book, and we’ll do everything we can to minimise risk and prepare safe meals. While we can’t guarantee a completely allergen-free kitchen, we are careful and considerate in handling requests.
What if I have a food intolerance?
We’re happy to adjust meals to suit your needs — whether it’s avoiding gluten, dairy, or other ingredients. Just give us clear information on your booking form so we can plan accordingly.
