Join Fr. Johannes Pio with Eagle Eye Ministries and COR Expeditions for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in New Zealand! This course will be a trip like none other, combining outdoor adventures amid the world-renowned scenery of New Zealand’s South Island with profound opportunities for spiritual growth and fellowship with other young Catholics.
The course begins in Christchurch with the Community of St. John, making its way down the South Island with day hikes in the Aoraki Mount Cook area before a five-day, four-night backpacking course incorporating the iconic Routeburn Track with the Greenstone-Caples Loop. Finally, the group will experience the breathtaking views of Milford Sound by boat before the trip concludes in Christchurch, considered to be the adventure capital of New Zealand. Throughout the trip, you will not only be able to experience the beauty and adventure of the outdoors, but also be nourished by preaching, Liturgy, and prayer. Make friends, experience Christ, and grow in your spiritual life amid the amazing landscapes New Zealand has to offer!
The course will take place on the South Island of New Zealand from Dec. 29-Jan. 8. Participants will be asked to provide basic personal items as well as certain backpacking items. Moderate physical fitness is required for this course, as the backpacking portion of the trip will take place in sub-alpine and alpine environments, will have significant elevation gain and loss, and moderate mileage. Participants can expect to carry 35-45 pound packs while hiking. Weather in New Zealand, especially in mountainous areas, is variable even in the summer season; snow, rain, and temperatures in the 30’s-80’s Farenheit can occur while backpacking or camping. All food and travel costs (including lodging) during the course dates will be provided by EEM and COR. However, while with EEM and COR, participants can expect to tent camp or sleep in churches, assist with group cooking, and go for 2-5 days without showers. Participants are required to obtain their own airfare that fits within the EEM itinerary, but are welcome to extend their travel in NZ either before or after the course itself.
Please note, participants must complete an application interview before being cleared for participation in this excursion. Registration is not confirmed until the application is completed. Upon registration and paying the initial deposit, a member of the excursions team will reach out to you. You are welcome to complete the application before registering by contacting Huliana at [email protected].
Please contact Huliana Poyrazoglu ([email protected]) BEFORE purchasing your airline ticket. We are happy to help you work out any details before your flight is purchased; however, we may not be able to help you afterwards! We will offer suggestions for anyone wishing to travel on their own in New Zealand before or after the course.
ITINERARY
Note that the trip begins in Christchurch and ends in Christchurch
1/7 Tuesday
Day hike
1/8 Wednesday
Day hike, complete drive to Christchurch
1/9
Breakfast at the priory (fly out after 12pm local time)
