Winter Program | New Zealand
Program Overview
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.
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Program Highlights
What's Included
Quick Details
- Winter
- Backpacking
- Birdwatching
- Camping
- Climbing
- Cooking
- Downhill Skiing
- Eco Tours
- Ecology
- Hiking
- Mountaineering
- Nature Tours
- Rafting
- Snowboarding
- Student Tours
- Tours
- Trekking
- Service Learning
- Sports
- Travel & Tourism
- Adventure Travel
- Experiential Learning
- Self-Discovery
- Wilderness
Updated Oct 16, 2025
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- New Zealand
Fields & Subjects
- Service Learning
- Sports
- Travel & Tourism
Available Terms / Availability
- Years Offered
- 2026, 2027
- Terms Available
- Winter
Eligible Nationalities
- All Nationalities
- This Program is also open to Solo, Couples, Group
Education Levels & Language
- Language
- English
- Education
- Any/All Education Levels Accepted
Accommodation Options
- Apartment/Flat
- Group living
Application Procedures
- Online Application
Age Requirement
18+
Duration
- After College
- Career Break / Mid-Career
- During College
- Post High School
Starts At
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all the most common questions about Pure Exploration.
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.
Recognitions & Awards
Awards and accreditations earned by this provider
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