GoAbroad

Winter Program | New Zealand

by: Pure Exploration

Add first reviewVerifiedSince 2016

Based in Queenstown, this program blends outdoor skills with a true immersion into Kiwi culture. Picture yourself summiting snowy peaks, navigating off-trail tracks, and climbing epic crags. It is perfect for those seeking a semester abroad, looking for a gateway into working and exploring New Zealand’s landscapes, or those looking to learn technical outdoor skills. Over 12 weeks, you'll hike, rock climb, complete an avalanche course, and camp in iconic spots like Milford Sound and Aoraki / Mt. Cook National Park. This New Zealand adventure is ideal for anyone passionate about traveling, outdoor education, and building connections in the adventure capital of New Zealand. Join us for a small group tour in New Zealand, where you will travel throughout the South Island, visit iconic New Zealand sites, and embrace Kiwi culture. Our New Zealand Winter itinerary will see you blending hiking, rock climbing, travel, and a winter avalanche skills course with community living and winter activities.

Program Highlights

Thrive in a supportive, communal living environment with your fellow adventurers in Queenstown.

Dive into the perfect opportunity to live, work, and play in New Zealand.

Visit iconic locations and experience remote local gems that you can't find on a Google search.

Gain industry-recognized training and qualifications that will see you become an outdoor leader.

Join a small group tour in New Zealand and enjoy traveling with like-minded friends.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • New Zealand
Starts At: No Costs
Availability
Year(s) Offered: 2026, 2027Terms Available:
  • Winter
Age Requirement: 18+
Types & Subjects
Adventure Types:
  • Backpacking
  • Birdwatching
  • Camping
  • Climbing
  • Cooking
  • Downhill Skiing
  • Eco Tours
  • Ecology
  • Hiking
  • Mountaineering
  • Nature Tours
  • Rafting
  • Snowboarding
  • Student Tours
  • Tours
  • Trekking
Subjects & Courses:
  • Service Learning
  • Sports
  • Travel & Tourism
Types:
  • Adventure Travel
  • Experiential Learning
  • Self-Discovery
  • Wilderness
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details
Last Updated: Oct 16, 2025

Awards

GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2024 - Adventure TravelInnovation In Alumni Engagement 2024 FinalistInnovative Intern Abroad Program 2024 FinalistAdventure Mark CertifiedNZOIA Associate MemberPeople's Choice 2022 Finalist

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • New Zealand

Types and Subjects

  • Adventure Types
  • Backpacking
  • Birdwatching
  • Camping
  • Climbing
  • Cooking
  • Downhill Skiing
  • Eco Tours
  • Ecology
  • Hiking
  • Mountaineering
  • Nature Tours
  • Rafting
  • Snowboarding
  • Student Tours
  • Tours
  • Trekking
  • Subjects & Courses
  • Service Learning
  • Sports
  • Travel & Tourism
  • Types
  • Adventure Travel
  • Experiential Learning
  • Self-Discovery
  • Wilderness

Availability

Years Offered: 2026, 2027

Terms Available:
  • Winter
Gap Year Timing:
  • After College
  • Career Break / Mid-Career
  • During College
  • Post High School

Age Requirement

18+

Guidelines

All Nationalities

This Program is also open to Solo, Couples, Group

Starts At

No Costs

Program Cost Includes

  • Tuition & Fees
  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • Some Accommodation
  • All Program Activity Costs
  • Some Program Activity Costs
  • Group Meals
  • Welcome Dinner
  • Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
  • Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
  • In-Country Transportation To & From Project
  • Required Equipment
  • Some Equipment
  • Guide / Chaperone
  • On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
  • Pre-Departure Orientation
  • In-Country Orientation
  • Training
  • Assistance Booking Travel
  • Cultural Training / Program / Orientation
  • Micro-Credential(s) / Certification(s)
  • Course Materials
  • Letter of Recommendation
  • Certificate of Completion
  • Emergency Support

Accommodation Options

  • Apartment/Flat
  • Group living

Qualifications & Experience

    Language Skills Required

  • English

    Accepted Education Levels

  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Application Procedures

  • Online Application

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the New Zealand Winter Program?

  • Highly experienced program instructors who are with you from start to finish
  • All activities and experiences outlined in the itinerary
  • All accommodation and transport for the duration of your program
  • All necessary technical equipment and all national park entry fees
  • Pure Exploration Certificate of Guiding, NZOIA Bush Leader, NZOIA Rock Leader, Advanced Outdoor First Aid Course, Avalanche Skills Course 1
  • Logbook Experience and Sign-Off

What does the New Zealand Winter itinerary look like?

Our Winter New Zealand itinerary encompasses hiking and rock climbing modules, with added extras throughout, including an avalanche skills course, outdoor leadership modules, outdoor safety, guiding modules, and assessments.

Who is the New Zealand Winter program for?

This program is perfect for anyone looking to travel in New Zealand, upskill in the outdoors, hike world-famous trails, learn how to rock climb, and those who want to spend an extended period of time in the country.

Can I join if I have no outdoor experience?

No worries! Our programs are designed for those who have never stepped foot in the outdoors, right through to seasoned professionals who want to gain more experience. Our program instructors work with you to adapt their teaching styles to suit your ability—that's the best part about this program! 

How will I gain outdoor qualifications?

The New Zealand Winter Adventure Guide Program is designed to teach you adequate outdoor skills so that you can sit your NZOIA Bush Leader and NZOIA Rock Leader Assessments. You will gain 12 weeks of outdoor training and mock guiding experience to prepare you for the NZOIA Assessments.

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