Pack your bags and come see New Zealand through my eyes. I’ve planned this trip around the exact spots, hikes, and locations I genuinely love - the kind of places I keep going back to. If you’ve seen my adventures on Dua Discovers, this is that same energy in real life, and I can’t wait to share it with you and make some unreal memories together.

When?
Friday the 6th of November - Midday on Monday the 16th of November 2026
Group airport pickup at 2pm at Christchurch airport.

Where?
This trip starts and ends in Christchurch, New Zealand. Flights are not included in this tour package so you will need to make your own way to and from Christchurch.

This trip will take you through the mountains of Arthur’s Pass and down to the West Coast into Glacier Country. From there, we will travel through Haast Pass and the Southern Lakes before visiting Aoraki Mount Cook, the tallest mountain in New Zealand. Finally, we will return to Christchurch to celebrate the end of an amazing trip and say our final farewells.

Payment plan options?
There are already payment plan options available - you just need to put down a deposit to secure your spot and the rest of the ticket price can be paid in 4 easy instalments.

Alternatively you can just fully pay the ticket in full.

Trip host?
Organised by your local New Zealand adventure girly - Dua Discovers (go stalk me and my adventures, what I get up to on there is the same vibe you can expect for this trip).

What's the vibe?
You’ll experience New Zealand the way I do as a local - not just the postcard spots, but the hidden gems you won’t find on a typical itinerary. Think quiet, untouched landscapes, scenic walks that feel like they’re yours alone, and the kind of moments that make you stop and go wow, SubhanAllah I can’t believe this is real.

This isn’t your standard group trip, it’s an adventure designed for women who actually want to experience a place, not just tick it off. Expect early starts for golden light, spontaneous photo stops, long chats on the road, and that feeling of doing something a little bit out of your comfort zone - in the best way.
You’ll need a moderate level of fitness and a good attitude - we’ll be walking or hiking most days, with routes ranging from 1–5 hours.

Fully catered to our needs as Muslim women there will be stops to pray on time, and all included meals will be halal. You’re so welcome to join even if you’re not Muslim, or if you don’t feel “Muslim enough” for muslim spaces. This is for the girlies who want an epic, adventure-filled South Island experience in a safe, private, women-only group.

Experiences

• Expect multiple hikes in the Southern Alps to beautiful glacial lakes and views overlooking the most gorgeous landscapes.

• Chasing 131-meter (430-foot) waterfalls in lush green forests.

• A scenic helicopter ride and a hike on a 20,000 year old glacier on the west coast.

• A traditional-Māori jewellery carving workshop carried out by local, experienced carvers. Learn about the historical significance of jade in New Zealand and make your own keepsake.

• Stargazing in New Zealand's dark sky reserve where the sky is so clear of light pollution that you can often see the Milky Way.
  

There genuinely isn't a single thing on this itinerary I don't love, so pack your bags because you are about to have the best time in New Zealand.

Can I come?
This trip is open to everyone from anywhere in the world. You are responsible for getting your visa and ensuring you can enter New Zealand. You can check the NZ immigration website regarding what visa you will need to enter New Zealand. https://www.govt.nz/browse/immigration-and-visas/visitor-visas-and-the-nzeta/

Food?
3 breakfasts and 3 dinners will be halal and included. All the accomodations will have cooking facilities so if you would rather make food than eat out, you absolutely can. We'll be making stops at grocery stores along the way - especially because every night there will be an optional cook-dinner-together session followed by a snacks and yap session.

Accomodation?
It's peak season in New Zealand so there's a mix of rooms and beds available. Check the package type at the time of booking. You will always have your own bed across all tiers. Room styles will vary depending on each location, including bunk beds, single beds, and queen beds. All nights you will have an ensuite bathroom in your room which will be shared just amongst you and your roommates - you won't ever be sharing a bathroom or kitchen with people outside of the Sidequest Sisterhood group. Each location will also have cooking facilities for you to make food on the days that food isn't included in the trip.

Travel Durations and Conditions (approx)
*If you get motion sickness please bring appropriate medication for this.
You can expect 2-3 stops between destinations with the maximum non-stop driving time in a day being 5 hours and the minimum being 30 mins. Check out the daily breakdown below for a full summary.

In terms of road conditions there will be some winding roads through mountains and gorges. We will drive through the inland alps to the forests, out to the coast and then back into the mountains. Driving will be done on proper tar-sealed roads - we won't be visiting any off road areas, gravel roads or bumpy roads. Transport will be in a comfortable coach that will carry you, a day pack and one suitcase.

Day by day breakdown
For your safety you will get a full comprehensive breakdown of what each day will look like, after you have paid your deposit to secure your spot in the trip.

Age restrictions
Minimum age to join is 18 years old and there is no max age - just a healthy level of enthusiasm for all the fun and adventure I'm going to direct your way.

Season in NZ during the trip
Summer time so the weather will be getting warmer and the days will be long. The sun is famously very strong in New Zealand, so bringing sunscreen and sun protection is essential - even I as a Pakistani will get sunburnt here in November.

Got questions?
You'll be added to a dedicated group chat where you can ask questions and get guidance in the lead up to this trip.
There will also be a pre-trip video call where I will go through everything you need to know and pack for your trip as well as your final packing list.

Payment Cancellation policy

The ticket price is in New Zealand Dollars. At checkout you will pay a deposit which is non-refundable. The remaining amount can be split across a payment plan or paid in full.

Refer to our full cancellation and refund policy but in summary:
If we are able to sell your place on the Tour, you may receive a full or partial refund on payments made towards the Tour (excluding the Deposit), at our absolute discretion. This is dependent on factors including but not limited to, limited to the cancellation date, your reasons for cancellation, and other circumstances; and Cancellations made 40 days or fewer before the Tour start date are non-refundable in full due to non-recoverable vendor costs. 

Please carefully read all the terms and conditions when booking. By completing your booking you will have confirmed your acceptance of these cancellation and refund terms.



TESTIMONIALS FROM PAST TRIPS:

Dua was a very dynamic tour guide. As a person, she was incredibly personable, giving us time to have fun but also reminding us to take in the views and to reflect on what we were seeing. While our trip was very planned, she was somewhat flexible with the schedule, making time for side quests and trying to accommodate us however she could. My trip to New Zealand genuinely may have been my favourite holiday ever and I couldn’t recommend going with Dua more.

I went on a retreat where Dua was a guide and another trip that was organized by Dua. To say that I loved every bit of it is an understatement. Both adventures were honestly so much fun! I loved going on the little side quests which was not on the plan or itinerary. I loved that Dua took the time to talk to not just me but also made sure that she got to know each and everyone of us thought both trips. I loved that she also made things happen seamlessly like organizing and impromptu horse riding for a big group of ladies. I love how she not only just fitted in but also did her very best to include others where she could. Dua hands down knows her shit and is mashallah very knowledgeable when it comes to touring around the South Island. She is also very down to earth as well.

Safe, Adventurous, warm Traveling with Duaa is one of the best experiences in my life. She doing her job from her heart with a high skills and expertise - I felt safe with her , lots of adventure and she is like a mom with warm and love and care


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Salam :) My name is Dua and after exploring New Zealand like it's my full time job, I have organised this itinerary with my favourite spots, hikes and experiences to share with you in this female-only group trip.

If you've ever wanted to visit New Zealand in summer and go on some epic sidequest adventures with a local guide, here is your chance! This is very much a hiking, nature-immersed trip that you'll get to enjoy with your fellow likeminded Sidequest Sisters. Everyone from anywhere is welcome. You don't have to be a muslim woman to be on this trip or be a specific level of practising or anything, it's just an adventure trip that also caters for halal dietaries and prayer times.

This trip is for women that want to truly experience New Zealand like a local. So sign up and InshaAllah I'll see you in November.

You’ve officially arrived in Christchurch, New Zealand, the largest city in the South Island and the starting point for your Sidequest adventure.

Congratulations, Sidequest Sisters, the adventures can officially begin!

Arrival details: Everyone needs to be in Christchurch by 2pm to catch the scheduled group airport pickup. If your flight arrives after this, you will need to grab a short 10-minute Uber or taxi to the accommodation yourself.

What to expect today: Today is all about settling into New Zealand and taking it easy. You will have the chance to meet your fellow Sidequest Sisters, get to know the group, and perhaps do a bit of souvenir shopping. This is a gentle introduction to Kiwi life before the adventure really kicks off tomorrow.

Driving details: No driving is required today except for the transfer from the airport to the accommodation. Take your time, explore at your own pace, and enjoy the first moments in Aotearoa.

Food details: Food is not included on this day but there will be dedicated breaks for meal times to ensure we are well fed and hydrated.

Today we leave Christchurch and head west across the mountains. This drive takes us through Arthur's Pass, one of New Zealand’s most scenic mountain routes. Expect dramatic alpine views, sparkling lakes, and plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

One of my favourite places in the country is on the agenda today. We will do a walk to a stunning 131-metre waterfall. It is one of the highest and most spectacular waterfalls in the area and the hike takes around one hour return. This is a perfect way to stretch your legs and take in the beauty of the Southern Alps.

Once we arrive on the West Coast, we will settle into our accommodation and have time to relax. If the weather allows, we may catch a sunset over the ocean, which is a perfect way to end the day.

Driving details: The total non-stop driving time is around five hours. There will be 2-3 stops along the way to enjoy the scenery and take photos without feeling like we are constantly getting in and out of the busl.

Hike details: 1 hour return of continuous uphill/stairs. As well as light walking at each stop. Time will be set aside to account for everyone to comfortably complete the hike but a moderate level of fitness will be required.

Food details: Food is not included on this day but there will be dedicated breaks for meal times to ensure we are well fed and hydrated.

Today is all about creativity and adventure. We will start the day with a jade carving experience, learning from skilled Māori carvers. This is a unique opportunity to connect with local culture and create a special keepsake to take home.

Afterwards we will head out to explore the nearby gorges and lakes. The walk takes around 1.5 hours return and will take you through the lush rainforest surroundings that make this area so beautiful.

Driving details: The time spent on the bus today is approx an hour to the walking track. So your suitcase and other items will stay at the accomodation. We will not be changing accomodations on this day.

Hike details: 1.5 hours return of easy walking along well-marked tracks, with gentle terrain suitable for all fitness levels.

Food details: Food is not included on this day but there will be dedicated breaks for meal times to ensure everyone stays well fed and hydrated.

We will start the day by heading down into Glacier Country, where some of the most amazing mountain landscapes await. This area is known for its dramatic scenery, and we will have plenty of opportunities to take in the rivers, forests, and towering peaks along the way.

Driving details: The drive into Glacier Country takes approximately 3 hours on winding roads. There will be short stops along the way to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Hike details: 2 to 4 hours of walking depending on weather and group pace. The tracks will be a mix of gentle terrain and moderate sections.

Food details: Food is not included on this day but there will be dedicated breaks for meal times to ensure everyone stays well fed and hydrated.

Today is all about adventure and incredible views. We will take a helicopter ride into the heart of the glaciers and spend time exploring the ice formations on foot. The hike on the glacier will take approximately 3 hours and requires a moderate level of fitness. This is a unique opportunity to see New Zealand’s glaciers up close and experience a truly unforgettable landscape.

Driving details: There is no driving today.

Hike details: Approximately 3 hours of walking on glacier terrain. A moderate level of fitness is needed to fully enjoy the experience.

Food details: Food is not included on this day but there will be dedicated breaks to stay hydrated.

Today we leave the glacier region and make our way to the Southern Lakes region, taking in some of the most stunning scenery along the way. We will stop for a 1 hour walk through forest that leads to bright, crystal-clear glacial waters.

Driving details: Approximate driving time is 5 hours along slightly windy roads. There will be stops along the way to enjoy the scenery and for photos.

Hike details: Short walk of approximately 1 hour return through forest to glacial waters. Easy walking suitable for all fitness levels.

Food details: Food is not included on this day but there will be dedicated breaks to stay fed and hydrated.

Today is all about choice. You can take it easy, catch up on sleep, or join me on a cheeky sidequest. Depending on the weather, the hike option will be either around 4 hours or up to 8 hours, giving you a chance to explore the area’s stunning landscapes.

This day is designed to give everyone flexibility to rest, recharge, and enjoy the day in a way that suits them.

Driving details: No driving is required today.

Hike details: Depending on the weather, the hike will either be 4 hours or 8 hours. Terrain will vary between steep and rocky but will be suitable for anyone with a moderate level of fitness.

Food details: Food is not included on this day but there will be breaks to stay fed and hydrated.

Today we leave the Southern Lakes and make our way to Mount Cook, taking in some of New Zealand’s most iconic alpine scenery along the route. The drive gives plenty of opportunities to enjoy the mountains, lakes, and valleys that make this region so special. Once we arrive, there will be time to settle into our accommodation and take in the surroundings before dinner.

Driving details: Approximate driving time is 3 hours. There will be stops along the way to enjoy the scenery and for photos.

Hike details: No formal hikes are scheduled today, but there will be an option for a short walk around the accommodation or viewpoint areas.

Food details: Dinner is included this evening.

Today is all about spending as much time as possible outdoors, soaking up the incredible alpine scenery. For those who want a more challenging experience, we’ll start early with a sunrise hike to catch the best views, returning in time for a late breakfast.

Later, the entire group will enjoy a longer walk through some of the most iconic parts of the national park. Depending on time and energy levels, we may explore a few additional trails.

Driving details: No driving today as we focus on exploring the park on foot.

Hike details: A combination of easy walks and more intermediate hike options will be available. All hikes will be fully guided and are designed to let everyone enjoy the scenery safely. For intermediate to advanced hikers expect 3-4 hours of walking uphill plus the more beginner friendly routes that will be 4-6 hours on a gentle, flat terrain.

Food details: Breakfast and dinner are included today.

Today we begin the journey back to Christchurch, taking in more of the South Island’s stunning scenery along the way. We will stop for a walk through lush forest to a striking river gorge. The walk takes around 4 hours and offers the perfect chance to stretch your legs, take photos, and enjoy the dramatic landscape.

After the walk, we continue the drive to Christchurch where you will settle back into the city and reflect on the adventures of the trip.

Driving details: Approximate driving time is 5 hours. There will be stops along the way to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

Hike details: 4-hour walk through forest and along a river gorge. Terrain is moderate, suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness.

Food details: Breakfast and dinner are included today.

Today is all about wrapping up your Sidequest adventure. You will have time for any last-minute souvenirs, a final wander through the city, or a quick sidequest with the group. It’s the perfect opportunity to reflect on the memories you’ve made, share laughs with your Sidequest sisters, and say farewell before departing.

Driving details: No driving is required today unless you are heading to the airport.

Hike details: Optional short walks around the city for sightseeing or quick exploration.

Food details: Breakfast is included today.