New Zealand Hiking CME Adventure
Discover the Best of the South Island
Length of trip: 8-13 days | Group Size: 16 | Activity Level: 3
Dates: March 8th-15th, 2026 (March 4th-8th, optional pre-trip extension)
Price: from $6,895
Lodging: Premier/Deluxe | This Trip is For: Couples/Friends/Solos
Continuing Medical Education: 24.25 CME/CE with WLS:MP Certification
Welcome to our New Zealand Hiking CME Adventure! We’re thrilled to be heading back to New Zealand’s spectacular South Island in 2026! Join us on a small group, hiking and multi-sport tour through the soaring landscapes of the South Island. This MedTreks CME adventure features an 8-day core itinerary exploring the dramatic landscapes of the South Island, with the option to join a 4-night pre-trip extension in the island’s northern region—home to golden beaches, coastal trails, and some of New Zealand’s most scenic waterways.
World-class accommodations and a perfect balance between outdoor activities and relaxation…come experience first-hand, why New Zealand is known for one of the best adventure destinations in the world.
You can choose our 8-day core itinerary or add on the 4-night pre-trip extension through the Northern part of the South Island – learn more below!
Queen Charlotte Coastal Trek
Kayaking & Hiking in Abel Tasman National Park
Wanaka & Rob Roy Glacier
Discover the Milford Sound
Itinerary at Glance
Begin your New Zealand adventure with an incredible 4-day journey through the sun-drenched northern reaches of the South Island. Designed as a relaxed yet active prelude to the core MedTreks South Island itinerary, this extension explores the coastal gems of Nelson, the forested paths of the Queen Charlotte Track, and the pristine waters of Abel Tasman National Park. From kayaking past golden beaches to hiking through native bushland, this experience offers a wonderful blend of outdoor exploration, local flavor, and rejuvenation—it is the perfect intro to the adventure ahead!
Touch down in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, where rugged mountains meet scenic lakefront townlife. After a restful night, we’ll venture into the heart of the Southern Alps to explore the stunning Wanaka region, with a scenic hike to the awe-inspiring Rob Roy Glacier. From there, we’ll make our way to the enchanting town of Te Anau, the perfect base to experience the iconic Milford Sound and trek along the Kepler Track, one of New Zealand’s legendary Great Walks—where ancient beech forests, thundering waterfalls, and panoramic alpine ridgelines reveal the raw beauty of Fiordland National Park.
We’ll wrap up our adventure with three unforgettable days in vibrant Queenstown—New Zealand’s ultimate outdoor playground. Hike a section of the world-renowned Routeburn Track, where alpine vistas, crystal-clear rivers, and hanging valleys leave you in awe. Then, enjoy a “design-your-own-day” experience—whether you’re craving adrenaline or relaxation, the choice is yours.
New Zealand Itinerary
When you travel with MedTreks, you‘re not just signing up for a trip—you‘re joining a community of like-minded healthcare professionals who share your passion for adventure, learning, and connection. Every itinerary thoughtfully crafted by our founder and owner, (a nurse practitioner herself!) with decades of experience in travel. Our expert team of guides and faculty ensure a high-quality, personalized experience and handle all the details so you can focus on learning CME, recharging, and experiencing the adventure of a lifetime. To learn more about Why MedTreks, click the link below!
CME Course Info
Wilderness Life Support - South Pacific Course
This course is accredited for 24.25 hrs of Category 1 CME for physicians, NPs/PAs and 24.25 CEUs for Nurses.
Topics include:
- Patient Assessment
- Trauma
- Wound Management
- Musculoskeletal Injuries
- Spinal Trauma
- Medical
- Dentistry, Eye, Skin
- Medical Emergencies
- Infectious Diseases
- Environmental
- Heat-Related Illness
- Cold-Induced Injury and Illness
- Drowning and Water Safety
- Dive Medicine
- Altitude Medicine
- Avalanche
- Lightning
- Animal & Insect Bites
- Water Disinfection
- Medical Kits
Physician (MD,DO) & Advanced Practitioners (NP/PA) CME
“This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint providership of the Wilderness Medical Society (WMS) and MedTreks International. The WMS is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.”
“The Wilderness Medical Society designates this live activity for a maximum of 24.25.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s) TM .
Scenario-based learning
Hands-On Skills
1 on 1 instruction
Engaging Lectures
- 7 nights deluxe 4 & 5 * hotel accommodations
- 4 nights deluxe accommodations (if doing the pre-trip extension)
- Airport transfers (based on group arrival)
- Meals as listed in the detailed itinerary
- Private chartered MedTreks Van
- Professional local guide and private driver
- MedTreks Faculty/Guide
- MedTreks Wilderness Medicine lectures/workshops
- Flexible interest free payment plans, no booking fees!
- Travel itinerary app to view your itinerary offline anywhere, anytime
- 24 hr in-country concierge support
- MedTreks Gift Bag
- Access to MedTreks Alumni Group
Extras: Airfare (domestic and international), Hotel stays before or after the itinerary, Meals as listed in the itinerary, Additional excursions as listed in the itinerary, Spa services, Additional snacks and beverages, Travel insurance (required), Gratuities
You will fly into Nelson Airport on the South Island if you are doing the pre-trip extension and fly into Queenstown if you are only doing the core tour. For departures: fly out of Queenstown airport on the South Island.
Your airport transfers are on your own, however we are happy to help provide contact information for local transport companies
Yes! As long as the trip is booked before the final payment is due (90 days before trip start). A non-refundable deposit secures your spot on the trip.
Our CME trips are all accredited for physicians, NPs, PAs and also provide CEUs for Nurses. We provide course information for all the courses that you can submit to your employer. After the trip/course is complete, we provide you with a CME certificate within 2-4 weeks
We provide you with a comprehensive Welcome Package that includes a packing list, resources, course materials, and helpful travel tips for your upcoming adventure.
Yes! We welcome loved ones and non-medical guests. They are welcome to attend all of our workshops and lectures while on the trip at no further cost. Children under 18 are not allowed at this specific retreat venue. Please send us an email to inquire about any specific requests and we are happy to help!
This trip includes 12 nights at deluxe, 4 - star lodges. Rooms are booked double occupancy, 2 people sharing a room with one or two beds (based on preference and availability). Single supplement (private rooms) might be available at an increased price. The sooner you book, the better chance of locking in your preferred rooming situation.
Send us an email! We are happy to set up a call and answer any questions that you might have!
Join us in New Zealand