Expedition New Zealand 2027

Jan 21 - Feb 4, 2027 | New Zealand - Stewart Island (Rakiura)

Overview

Prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore one of the most sought-after and remote destinations on Earth. Known to the Māori as Rakiura—the "Land of Glowing Skies"—Stewart Island offers a pristine wilderness experience for those ready to challenge themselves.

This is more than a trek—it’s a 110-mile unsupported expedition designed to push limits, build camaraderie, and immerse participants in one of the world’s last truly wild places.

Led by resiliency-trained guides, participants will gain lifelong skills, form deep connections, and leave with a profound sense of accomplishment.

Applications

Application Date Window: April 2 - Sept 1

Fundraising Commitment: $3,000 ($200 non-refundable deposit)

Spots Available:10 participants

Applicants will be notified of their status starting April 20. Applicants who apply after April 20 will be notified on a rolling basis.

Apply Now

At a Glance

Duration:

15 days (travel + hike)

Total Trekking Distance:

110 miles

Team Size:

Select participants + 2 guides

Key Locations:

Stewart Island, Maori Beach, Ancient Forests, Port of Oban

Expedition Type:

Unsupported backpacking

Expedition Highlights

The Challenge

Navigate a demanding, remote thru-hike through one of the most remote island trails in the world.
Carry all essential gear and supplies
Adapt to rugged terrain and unpredictable conditions

The Reward

Build lifelong friendships
Develop resilience and backcountry skills
Experience a trail that very few ever complete in a group setting

The Landscape

Pristine Coastlines: Windswept ridges, remote beaches, sheltered inlets
Ancient Forests: Towering Rimu and Kamahi trees, rare Gondwanan species
Iconic Terrain: The trail’s famous muddy sections—part of the authentic experience

Wildlife & Ecosystem

Predator-free environment with zero venomous reptiles or spiders
Rare opportunity to see Southern Tokoeka (kiwi) in the wild
Birdlife including Tūī, Bellbirds, Kākā, and Morepork owls
Coastal wildlife like Little Blue Penguins and seals

The “Glowing Skies”

International Dark Sky Sanctuary
Exceptional views of the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights)
Unmatched stargazing free from light pollution

If you couldn’t join us live, you can now watch the full session. Get an overview of the program, trip details, eligibility, and the application process.

Itinerary

Jan 21 - Feb 4, 2026

This 15-day journey is designed as a challenging, guide-led trek through the remote wilderness of Stewart Island.

Arrival & Transit (January/February 2027):

Day 1: Participants arrive in Christchurch (CC).
Day 2: Travel from Christchurch to Bluff. Take the ferry from Bluff to Stewart Island (SI).

The Main Trek: Rakiura Track (Day 3 – 13):

Embark on an 11-day, 110.5-mile unsupported backpacking trip through Rakiura National Park finishing at a Hostel in Oban.
This section includes two "flex days" to account for any potential setbacks on the trail.
Expect a unique landscape with no large predators or venomous wildlife, and the rare opportunity to see Kiwi birds in the wild.

Return Journey (Day 14):

Day 14: Take the return ferry from Stewart Island back to Bluff. Travel by Van from Bluff back to Christchurch
Day 15: Flight departures from Christchurch back to origins.
Please note that all dates are tentative and serve as placeholders for the 2027 season.

If you couldn’t join us live, you can now watch the full session. Get an overview of the program, trip details, eligibility, and the application process.