A basic level of fitness is required, you will be walking approximately 8-12km, and this will involve some climbing. Your guide can cater for different levels of fitness, be sure to let them know if you have any concerns when you make your booking so they can best meet your needs.

The total duration of the full-day walk is approximately 6 hours, and within this, expect to be walking about 3-4 hours, covering 8-12 km on average.

The tour departs 12 months of the year; there are very few days in Christchurch that the weather prevents you from enjoying a fabulous walk. However, some of the walks may be unavailable during the colder months of July and August due to the tracks becoming wet. The guides will identify the best hike for the conditions of the day. If the weather conditions prevent the group from walking, your guide will reschedule for another day to suit, or you will receive a refund.

On the full-day walk, The Operator provides a hot drink to order on the day, morning tea (fruit and trail mix or a muesli bar), lunch (roast vegetable frittata and a coleslaw with some chocolate), and a stainless steel water bottle which you can refill along the way. This is all included in the price you paid for the trip. They can cater for special dietary needs; please let them know when you make your booking.

That's no problem. Please let The Operator know when you book if you have any allergies or intolerance. They have excellent vegetarian, gluten and dairy-free food options available.

The use of walking poles is included in the price, and it's recommended everyone use them. The tracks occasionally become wet, and poles will lessen any chance of injury. Using walking poles also reduces accumulated stress on the feet, legs, knees, and back by sharing the load more evenly across the whole body:

• Protect knees, especially when walking down steep hills

• Improve your power and endurance when walking uphill

• Aid balance on uneven trails

• Improve posture, making walkers more upright as they walk, and in turn, this can help breathing

• Increase speed, especially going downhill

• Provide extra stability

• Reduce fatigue and improve endurance

• Burn more calories by providing an upper body workout as well as a legs workout

• Strengthen muscles that support the spine

• Build muscles in arms, shoulders and neck