About Guided Walks New Zealand

Guided Walks since 1868...

We are New Zealand’s oldest guided walking company.

Started by the Bryant family, who ran trips for four generations, the original operation was based out of Kinloch Lodge at the head of Lake Whakatipu and focused on guiding into the Routeburn Valley. The following owners, Peter and Karyn Hitchman, added snowshoe trips in 2009 enabling guests access to the stunning alpine environment during winter. Guided Walks NZ is now proudly owned by Ngāi Tahu Tourism, a business subsidiary of the largest Maori tribe in the South Island of New Zealand.

Ngāi Tahu has tourism roots that extend back to when our ancestors were the guides for many of the first European explorers. Now tourism allows Ngāi Tahu to extend our manaakitanga (hospitality) to our manuhiri (guests) by providing rich and memorable experiences within our natural environment.

Welcome

We are a team of passionate individuals who have been guiding and instructing in the mountains and forests of New Zealand for the last decade and beyond. It's our privilege to take guests deep into our lush forests or high above the snow line into the pristine, untouched world of the alpine region. We have a vast knowledge of the flora, fauna, history and geology of this beautiful region.

Our walks take you into some of the most spectacular areas around Queenstown and Fiordland, to experience everything from glacial valleys and majestic mountains, to pristine lakes and rainforest. From half and full day bush walks, to three-day guided fully-hosted trips we offer a range of options to suit everyone. In winter we go beyond the forested hills to experience the serenity of the spectacular 'back country' around Queenstown on snowshoes.

We’ve chosen our range of walks for their natural history, scenic beauty, remote locations and varied terrain. We’re proud of our company's reputation for providing friendly, informative and personalised guided walks for small groups. Only Guided Walks New Zealand has the unique combination of guiding heritage, expertise, variety and cultural connection to make your experience truly memorable. Join us for an unforgettable journey of discovery where every step is a story.