Hollyford Track
Hollyford Track, Fiordland National Park: Address, Hollyford Track Reviews: 5/5
Hollyford Track
Hollyford Track
5
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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5.0
316 reviews
Excellent
292
Very good
21
Average
1
Poor
1
Terrible
1
Liz
Blenheim, New Zealand5 contributions
Couples
As a senior couple of course it was a little concern how we would go. Yes do the prep work and then enjoy every moment. Bard & Eli had wonderful knowledge which only enhances the trip. We had read the books on Martins Bay and the history of the early settlers which made it all come to life. Bard has endless stories and enthusiasm which was a delight. We were fortunate in having botanists amongst our travellers so that was a bonus. 16 of us in total with a range of ages. Not a problem, all excellent company. Lodges, hosts and food all make a perfect package. I won’t tell all so that there are surprises in store.
Written 31 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
NgaruToa
Phnom Penh, Cambodia22 contributions
The guides, Bard & Clauds were outstanding. Their knowledge and Kiwi hospitality were top notch. The lodges were fantastic, as were all the staff. I wouldn't hesitate to do it all again. From my kids, 14 years old, "That was the best thing we have ever done!" Up there with some of the best I have done also, nga mihi nui ❤️
Written 23 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
WendyANZ
Wellington, New Zealand38 contributions
My husband and I did the Hollyford Track guided walk in late April, and had a great experience. Our guides, Kyle and Michelle, were awesome, we were blessed with amazing weather, the lodges were comfortable, and the friendly lodge hosts did an amazing job catering for those of us with food allergies. There are so many great moments that it is impossible to pick just one highlight – beautiful bird song, stunning scenery, incredible stars at night, and an awesome helicopter flight across Milford Sound. I would definitely recommend this experience to any keen tramper.
Written 5 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Leonie
2 contributions
We had the most amazing experience walking the Hollyford Track with our wonderful guides, Bard and Jack. They were so knowledgeable and interesting. From the time we were picked up in Queenstown till we returned there it was superb. Stunning scenery, beautiful bird song, wonderful weather, great accommodation and food with friendly hosts at the lodges. Each day was so different. We loved hearing the stories of the pioneers - many of us had read the books so these stories cemented what we had read.
Would totally recommend this Hollyford Experience.
Would totally recommend this Hollyford Experience.
Written 5 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Howard125
Auckland4 contributions
Seriously overpriced. The same price as Milford Track and Routeburn but one night less and 'shared' bathroom facilities. No disclosure that this is actually 2 toilets and 3 showers for 16 people!
Tramp totally padded out with guide 'chat'. A 5 hour tramp becomes 7 hours with nowhere to sit as you get endless stories are minor local historical characters and continual tree descriptions. Great if you are into this. But not if you want to tramp at your own speed, and get the the lodge to relax in your own way.
You can cruise the Mediterrean for 9 days for $500 more - with your own toilet and shower. Or spend the money staying at a nice B & B in Queenstown, National Park, Wanaka, Te Anau or similar and do day tracks and many helicopter trips.
These concession seem to have the 'glamping' market sewn up and do not provide value for money
Tramp totally padded out with guide 'chat'. A 5 hour tramp becomes 7 hours with nowhere to sit as you get endless stories are minor local historical characters and continual tree descriptions. Great if you are into this. But not if you want to tramp at your own speed, and get the the lodge to relax in your own way.
You can cruise the Mediterrean for 9 days for $500 more - with your own toilet and shower. Or spend the money staying at a nice B & B in Queenstown, National Park, Wanaka, Te Anau or similar and do day tracks and many helicopter trips.
These concession seem to have the 'glamping' market sewn up and do not provide value for money
Written 1 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
CharlotteGRichardS
Auckland, New Zealand16 contributions
We walked the Hollyford Track with Hollyford Wilderness Experience and their guides Kyle and Michelle. It was superb!
From the pre-walk advice, the travel logistics, the comprehensive briefing, to the amazing scenery, birdsong, knowledge of the guides just fabulous.
The variety of each day, surprises along the way, simple but delightful accommodation, delicious food from the welcoming 'lodgies' made it a walk to never forget.
From the pre-walk advice, the travel logistics, the comprehensive briefing, to the amazing scenery, birdsong, knowledge of the guides just fabulous.
The variety of each day, surprises along the way, simple but delightful accommodation, delicious food from the welcoming 'lodgies' made it a walk to never forget.
Written 27 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
kate m
1 contribution
Couples
Our Hollyford experience was superb.
From incredibly knowledgeable guides - Suzanne and Jack - to the hut hosts extraordinaire. Not to mention the fabulous food constantly on offer. And the towels provided for our day two lake swim.
The stories of Davey Gunn, along with the mythology, history, flora and fauna were all brought to life. What a legend. Loved it all.
From incredibly knowledgeable guides - Suzanne and Jack - to the hut hosts extraordinaire. Not to mention the fabulous food constantly on offer. And the towels provided for our day two lake swim.
The stories of Davey Gunn, along with the mythology, history, flora and fauna were all brought to life. What a legend. Loved it all.
Written 25 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Wink
1 contribution
Hollyford Track was an amazing and memorable experience. The wealth of knowledge and skills from our awesome guides Bard and Claud was so inspiring. Beautiful scenery, great accomodation and food. Very well organised. Totally recommend.
Written 24 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Alexandra H
Hastings, Hawke's Bay, New Zealand22 contributions
Couples
Stunning scenery with massive bird song. Fab jet boat ride & to finish off with a wonderful helicopter ride. Super guides & warm inviting lodges. Very special part of New Zealand.
Written 19 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Godfrey F
1 contribution
Hollyford Wilderness Experience organised a trip that pampered us thoroughly. From tales of the Maori, frontier men, women and explorers, to the sumptuous food we were nourished with, to the botanical lessons we gleaned from Mush and Jack all told with authority and cheekiness. Learnt to survive that little bit more in the bush from the bush food (mainly berries) we tasted. The scenery and valley gleaned from the glacial activity is awe inspiring. The camaraderie, fun and experience is one to treasure.
Written 19 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
chvrche5
Dunedin, New Zealand5 contributions
Is the track non-technical enough to wear trail running shoes as opposed to boots? I'm a trail runner and prefer to wear my running shoes whenever possible because of the greater flexibility and ability to dry out faster. When my boots get soaked, they stay soaked! Both my boots and trail runners have good grip. Situations where I'd prefer boots would be long periods of steep terrain with minimal foot holdings, or boulder hopping.
bbrichau
Lake Hayes, New Zealand166 contributions
Sorry for the late reply. That should be ok yes, if the weather is fine
Paula M
East Lansing, MI6 contributions
Hello,
I am planning for our hike and looking to buy hiking boots. I will select a waterproof boot, but is there any reason, other than ankle support, to get a higher boot, rather than an ankle height boot?
Thank you
Paula Manderfield
Liz W
Beeston, UK211 contributions
As a keen hiker (or tramper as they're called in NZ) a proper hiking boot will not just give ankle support but also prevent toes being bruised if the ankle is well supported & give better grip on slopes. You walk 19km on the first day in about 6-7hrs on uneven paths so good boots are needed. Hollyford track can be muddy so a higher hiking boot keep your feet dry longer, consider wearing gaiters if wet too as otherwise bottoms of trousers get muddy & soggy......
suntrace
Florida4 contributions
what company did the tour...thank you
Nzedfi
Christchurch, New Zealand28 contributions
Hi Guided Walks New Zealand, which is part of Ngai Tahu Tourism, run the Three day guided walk in the Hollyford. You can check their Hollyfordtrack website for more information and to book online.
Sue P
Perth, Australia7 contributions
It all sounds fantastic.
It is a late decision to come to Queenstown so we don't have the lead time for too much training but we are reasonably fit.
the review on footware was helpful. I may bring my heavier workboots as I hadn't considered mud.
Do you recommend any particular insect repellent?
Kate_NTT_Southern
Queenstown, New Zealand1 contribution
Kia ora Sue, It is an amazing experience and you will thoroughly enjoy it. Footwear with good support is recommended but you also don't want something too heavy. Insect repellents are dependent on whether you would like a natural spray or don't mind and just want the protection.Bushman or Off are two I have used in the past and have been useful.
We look forward to having you on the Hollyford Track.
Safe travels.
Kind Regards, Kate
KaBaCanberra
Greater Sydney, Australia48 contributions
what is the name of tour guy ?
Kate_NTT_Southern
Queenstown, New Zealand1 contribution
Kia ora, we have several knowledgeable and experienced guides. Have you done a trip with us? We have three lead guides. Their names are Graeme, Justin or Brendan. Hopefully this helps. Kind Regards, Kate
Rodger P
Brooklana, Australia
With the air fight, how many flights a day are there. We understand the plane only takes 8 passengers, however there will be 9 of us?
ShotoverJet
Queenstown, New Zealand3 contributions
Hi Rodger, although I am ID'd as Shotover Jet I am also the marketing manager for Hollyford Track. To clarify, we have stopped using fixed wing aircraft for transfers in and out of the valley. Helicopters are better in adverse weather conditions, better seating, easier to get in and out of and better views. Generally helicopter loads are either 4 or 6 people and the loads made up by the guides to suit.
Rodger P
Brooklana, Australia
With the air fight, how many flights a day are there. We understand the plane only takes 8 passengers, however there will be 9 of us?
ShotoverJet
Queenstown, New Zealand3 contributions
Hi Rodger, I'm assuming you are asking about the freedom transfers? We only use Helicopters with a maximum capacity of 6 people. However we are often flying in and out up to 16 people so it is a matter of being patient as your group is ferried in. Often there are two helicopters working at a time. The flights are once a day around mid day and only every second day.
Kind regards
Nigel Kerr
If you wish to make a booking please contact
Hollyford Track on +64 3 4423000 with dates and number of people.
chelsea b
Perth, Australia
Hi, I'm doing this walk next month, planning to walk in my good, worn in runners, is it really necessary to have hiking boots?
Kiwionwheels
New Zealand16 contributions
Hi Chelsea,
Boots versus runners the difference is ankle support. Even with your personals thats an extra 5kg you are not used to carrying, and if the track is wet or muddy even the best fitting runners aren't that supportive. And over 20km on the first day the more flexible sole generally gives the feet a pounding. So our standard recommendation is boots, even if they are a light Kathmandu model, it does make a difference.
However it definitely comes down to personal choice. A few people can and do wear runners and on the third day they are better suited than boots (its also the shortest).
See you next month
Nigel
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