2020's Best Seller List

Stunning views greet you on the Nydia Track | MarlboroughNZ
Stunning views greet you on the Nydia Track | MarlboroughNZ
Let’s face it.  Today’s world is fast-paced!  Most of us spend each and every day packing as much as we can into every single minute of each and every hour, only to collapse in a heap at the end of the day, tired but already planning all the things that we need to get through tomorrow.  
 
We then wake up tired as our brains are constantly wired to plan. We live with lists. Either written down or in our minds and never fully switch off. Never fully disconnect and never fully allow ourselves complete relaxation. 

As tiring as it all is – we LOVE lists! What books made the Best Seller’s list? What movie was top at the box office? What TV shows are trending on Netflix? The lists go on and with it, our own lists either get bigger or smaller as we discover new ideas, new things to explore or new things to try.
 
So why not take some inspiration from the Best-Selling Walks of 2020 NZ list that we have compiled and plan some future time away to head out, unplug for a while and enjoy the outdoors.
 

1. Nydia Track Hike

It may well be due to the recent show “The Sounds” featuring on Neon which is set in the Pelorus Sound….but this trip takes out the top honours for 2020 and can be described as a little know hike in a well-known area. Those that come to hike in Marlborough are generally coming for the iconic Queen Charlotte track.  But this lesser know hike, tucked away in the Pelorus Sounds is more remote and less visited than its famous cousin.
 
The Nydia Track runs from Kaiuma Bay in the south to Duncans Bay in the north covering 27 kms and offering regenerating native bush walks, untouched forests, sheltered shorelines and some of the most amazing views.  The trip gives you a rest day in the middle which is perfect for the chance to explore the natural surrounds, relax in the hot tub or simply sit down with a good book. 

2. Abel Tasman Adventure

It’s easy to understand why this Great Walk of New Zealand takes out one of our Best Seller spots.  Nelson Tasman region is home to the most sunshine hours in New Zealand and the views from the Abel Tasman Track offer diverse and spectacular scenery as well as golden sand beaches and bluest of blue ocean colours.
 
The Abel Tasman Adventure gives the added bonus of private lodge accommodation as well as two well-placed rest days, where you can simply kick back and relax (internet and mobile reception doesn’t come easy in the Abel Tasman National Park) or where you can enjoy some kayaking in the tranquil bays.  What more could you want!
 

3. Queen Charlotte Extended Hike

The Nydia Track took out our top two spots, but of course, the Queen Charlotte wasn’t going to be missed off the Best Seller list!  Although the actual track can be walked in three or four days, it is the more popular Extended Hike that appeals to our travellers.  Why? More time to get away and relax of course!
 
This track provides it all.  70kms from end to end, with cosy lodge accommodation, scenic boat ride, varied walks either along the shoreline on along the ridge tops and of course, views, views, views.  Hiking the Queen Charlotte is quite a special experience as much of the access to the track relies on the cooperation of local landowners being a track that combines private land and public nature reserves.  Definitely one to tick off your list.
 

4. Banks Peninsula Hike

Last one to make our Best Seller list is the Banks Peninsula Hike.  Many of us have been to Christchurch.  Many of us have then taken time to head to Akaroa.  But how many of us have done the Banks Peninsula? Not many I can tell you.
 
This is a truly unique New Zealand experience.  Hiking over volcanic landscapes, native forest, steep private farmland and through the peaceful Hinewai Reserve and each night, enjoying a good old-fashioned farmstay for your accommodation.  Local hospitality and landscape at their very best (as well as some local wildlife thrown in just for fun).
 
Low tide makes crossing easier at the Awaroa Inlet |  <i>Janet Oldham</i> The utterly beautiful location of Furneaux Lodge |  <i>Furneaux Lodge</i> The main cottage at Flea Bay Cottage |  <i>Janet Oldham</i>
 

** Honourable mentions must go to the Best of the Queen Charlotte and Abel Tasman Hike - combining two iconic walks into one trip and also Best of the Southern Alps Trek - hiking some of the most secluded ridges in the Southern Alps.


 

Comment (1)

Yang Ruflo

This is really true

4 years ago
Your comment will be visible after the administrator's approval.







b i u quote


Save Comment
Join Newsletter
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ADS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Adventures South"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Adventure South</div>
Adventure South NZ is unrivalled in their geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of adventures holidays in New Zealand. Choose from walking, cycling, winter or multi-activity holidays, on either the North or South Island.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/AWH.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Walking Holidays"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Walking Holidays</div>
Australian Walking Holidays specialises in small group guided walking adventures. Since 1982 we have been guiding small groups of travellers on Australia's finest walks across our tropical, coastal or red centre landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GCT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Canadian Trails"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Canadian Trails</div>
Great Canadian Trails specialises in active holidays in Canada. With both guided and supported self-guided options available, our unique itineraries draw upon some of Canada's most inspiring parks, trails and landscapes from coast to coast.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/HUM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Humac Challenge"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Huma Charity Challenge</div>
Huma enables those with adventurous spirits to challenge themselves and make a difference for a cause close to their heart. Travel, fundraise and meet life-long friends on one of Huma's meaningful and unique challenges around the world.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TAS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Tasmania Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Tasmanian Expeditions</div>
Tasmanian Expeditions is the most experienced operator of treks and adventure travel holidays in Tasmania. We own and operate the most comprehensive range of adventure holidays available across Tasmania's varied landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/UTX-new.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Utracks"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>UTracks</div>
UTracks are the active European holiday specialists. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WYA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions Schools"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions Schools</div>
World Expeditions Schools is our specialist division dedicated to organising tailor made overseas school group adventures. Specialists in Service Learning projects, choose from more destinations than any other school group provider.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/YOM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Yomads"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Yomads</div>
Yomads offers adventures for the 20s and 30s on six continents. Designed as a way to bring young and likeminded travellers together, Yomads caters to those interested in lightly structured and active trips that allow freedom to roam and explore.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ACT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Cycle Tours"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Cycle Tours</div>
Australian Cycle Tours specialises in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WEX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions</div>
The pioneers of original, worldwide adventure travel holidays since 1975
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TJX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Trail Journeys"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Trail Journeys</div>
Self-guided cycling experts on New Zealand's Otago Rail Trail and more
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/BMAC.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Blue Mountains Adventure Company"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Blue Mountains Adventure Company</div>
The original Blue Mountains canyoning, hiking, climbing and abseiling experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GWNZ.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Walks of New Zealand"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Walks of New Zealand</div>
Explore New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness regions with the self-guided hiking experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/NAA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="North America Active"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>North America Active</div>
USA Canada hiking & cycling tour specialists, choose from self-guided or guided trips