New Zealand may be a small, lightly populated country, but its two main islands are packed full of thrilling adventure programs and rewarding service opportunities. Rustic Pathways has been offering a diverse range of exciting programs in the beautiful Land of the Long White Cloud for over 16 years. If you seek magnificent natural scenery, endless adventure activities, and friendly Kiwi culture, our New Zealand programs will take you there! From the fresh powder of uncrowded snowfields, to the adrenaline rush of wild adventure activities such as zorbing, bungee jumping, skydiving and parapenting, to the rewards of worthwhile service with friendly Kiwi communities, New Zealand will take your breath away.

The awesome environment of both North and South Islands are a natural playground that will excite, invigorate, and renew your body and spirit. In a short period of time, the adventure seeker can gaze deeply into the icy blue crevices of Fox Glacier, marvel at the cloud piercing summit of Mount Cook, take in deep breaths of pure mountain air, and admire awesome views over the horizon, all while parapenting, bungee jumping, sky diving, or flightseeing. Add to this the chance to carve wide turns down uncrowded snow fields on skis or snowboard. Are you excited yet? Your options are as open and limitless as the multitude of ski runs. Considering New Zealand’s small size, the variety of its terrain is simply stunning and must be seen to be believed. With mountains covered in snow and the towns below generally snow-free, New Zealand is an incredible winter holiday destination. Add this natural environment to the warmth and hospitality of the rugged Kiwi culture, and you have an overseas adventure worth raving about!

On our Rugged South Island Service trip you’ll start your journey in the relatively large and vibrant city of Dunedin and work your way south to see what lies off the beaten track.

Rustic Pathways’ Ski and Snowboard program is based out of Queenstown, which is nestled along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and set against the backdrop of The Remarkables mountain range on the South Island.

Our North Island Adventure program is truly a road trip of a lifetime. The North Island, with a warmer climate, is best known for the beaches, native forests, and a strong Maori influence.

New Zealand may be a small, lightly populated country, but it packs an incredible amount into its two main islands. Fresh air, magnificent scenery, and outdoor activities are some of the feature attractions of New Zealand. Rustic Pathways has been offering students a diverse range of activities in New Zealand for over a decade.

New Zealand is located very close to our other South Pacific destinations, making it easy to design a customized South Pacific summer! If you would like to inquire about any of our exciting New Zealand programs please email us at nz@rusticpathways.com.

a land mesmerizingly painted by nature’s hand
some say it is nature’s fortress
of winding fjords
forest fringed lakes
towering mountains
and thundering waterfalls
breathtaking beauty
adrenaline filled activities
and a youthful enthusiasm
that is as vibrant as this land is young
be prepared to be in awe
New Zealand