Apply for a 9 Day Thru-Trek with ATC in New Zealand

Auckland Tramping Club (ATC) Member Antal Kalocsai has designed a 9 day thru-trek in New Zealand’s Nelson Lake (Northwest region of South Island) and has invited HTMC Members to join him on this trek. The dates for this trek are February 18-26, 2025. This backpack is for multiple-day experienced backpackers only, including tenting (at least 3 nights) and backcountry huts. There will be a total of 8 people on this trek (5 from HTMC and 3 from ATC). Space on this trip is limited because of hut and shuttle capacity, as well as to ensure the group is a manageable size for a true NZ backcountry trip. 

Good fitness with a multi-day pack in hilly and rough terrain is required. The ATC rates this type of trip as “Medium” difficulty, although HTMC does not offer any extended backpack trips, so we would label this type of trip as “Very Advanced.” The longest backpacking day should not take more than 8 hours, and the average day backpacking day is around 6 hours. There will be lots of off-track tramping, which is usually slow going. The distance varies daily between 10-20 km (6-12 miles). This backpack trip will cross three alpine passes (max elevation gain of 3,900 feet and the longest elevation loss is 4,100 feet) and will include navigating an alpine environment. Due to the time of year, there are long daylight hours, so the group can take their time. Trips like this require all participants to be capable, fit and able to outline their recent multi day tramping experience to the trip leader. 

The estimated cost (excluding flights to and from Christchurch New Zealand) is $400 USD. There will be an overnight stay in Christchurch with time to purchase food and supplies for the trek. All of your gear/food needs to be carried with you the entire route as there is no resupply. 

Keep in mind that New Zealand has very strict biosecurity rules. When entering the country you will need to declare any items that have been used previously for outdoor activities. This includes items like; tents, hiking boots and hiking poles. Customs officers will check that these are clean and free of any dirt, seeds and leaves. Food items are also considered a potential risk and must also be declared. 

 CLICK HERE to view the full itinerary 

This backpack trip is open to all HTMC Members. The application process is not on a “first come first serve” basis as the selection process needs to determine; experience, capability and fitness of the backpackers because once the trip starts, it would be a major disruption if someone needed to pull out. All interested are encouraged to apply, but keep in mind that the application includes answering questions about your experience, capability and fitness level. 

Please read the itinerary before you consider applying. CLICK HERE to fill out the Application Form for this backpack trip. Applicants will be selected based on their experience, capability and fitness level. The application deadline is August 31st. The HTMC Hike Committee will be reviewing the applications and if needed, conduct interviews. Once the selections have been made, Individuals will be notified mid-September. If interested, those selected can consider adding on another ATC trip to extend their adventure (refer to the ATC website). 

We appreciate your patience and understanding with this process. If you have further questions, please do not reach out directly to Antal, contact the Hike Committee hike@htmc1910.org who will consolidate and coordinate inquiries. Mahalo!