the guide-ladder

This guide focuses on Level 1 – The easy cruiser.
So expect a well-paced route that covers New Zealand’s major highlights without rushing or overpacking your days.

Think scenic must-sees, short walks, relaxed drives, and plenty of breathing room. This level is perfect if it’s your first time in New Zealand, you want to ease into the country, or you simply prefer traveling without constantly watching the clock.

This guide focuses on Level 2 – The curious explorer.
So expect all the essentials from Level 1, with a little more depth and movement.

You’ll still travel comfortably, but with added detours, longer scenic stops, and a few more active moments built in. Days flow naturally, but you’ll cover more ground and see beyond just the obvious highlights.

This guide focuses on Level 3 – The overachiever. 

So expect a balanced mix of highlights, lesser-known stops, and days that invite exploration.

This level is for travelers who like to wander, take optional side trips, and stay flexible without feeling underprepared. You’ll have structure — but also space to follow curiosity when something catches your eye.

This guide focuses on Level 4 – The completionist.
So expect fuller days, longer drives, and a route that squeezes in a lot — in a good way.

You’ll cover major highlights and extra gems, with some ambitious days sprinkled in. It’s for travelers who love seeing “just one more thing” and don’t mind ending the day a little tired but very satisfied.

This guide focuses on Level 5 – Why-are-we-like-this.
So expect packed days, longer hikes, early starts, and a strong sense of “we’re doing the most.”

This level is for travelers who want to experience as much as possible within their timeframe. You’ll be rewarded with epic scenery, varied landscapes, and the kind of trip where rest days sound optional

This guide focuses on Level 6 – Hiker’s heaven.
So expect serious walking, challenging hikes, and routes designed around movement and elevation.

This level is built for those who happily continue hiking on sore legs, seek out multi-hour or overnight walks, and feel most at home on a trail. Scenic viewpoints are earned, not driven to –  and the payoff is worth every step.