5 Stars (239 reviews)
The trip was first rate and exceeded my expectations. It’s easy to be won over by New Zealand’s stunning scenery and natural beauty! More than this though, the success of the trip was due, in large measure, to our two superlative guides, Emma and Elize. Both guides did their jobs superbly: Emma is a fantastic cook who put heart and soul, indeed love, into her cooking. Every meal she prepared was delicious and well presented. Elize is an excellent driver - steady and considerate, making us feel safe throughout the long distances covered over 14 days. As hiking guides, both enhanced our hiking experience with their knowledge of flora and fauna. They also kept us entertained with local stories and legends. Both put in so much effort to give us an unforgettable holiday, and even went out of their way and beyond the call of duty to help us on 2 occasions. They were exceptional!
New Zealand Walking Adventure, March 2024
Juniper
6 Stars (239 reviews)
This trip was an outstanding adventure for us--a 75 year old couple on their first trip to New Zealand and Australia. Our small group of 7 (most all "seniors") from the US and Australia got along well. The arranged hikes, varied accommodations and meals were quite amazing and fantastic overall. We were extremely fortunate to have great weather throughout the 2 weeks with only 2 rainy days which didn't slow us down much. Our guide and gourmet cook provided scrumptious meals and treats/snacks throughout the trip. Both guides were really wonderful with attention to safety and a treasure trove of information throughout. The activities (primarily hikes) were well selected, and the pre-trip suggestions as far as packing and exercise to "get in shape" were great. The number of different habitats and variety of national parks and trails we experienced were really outstanding. Most every detail was very well planned out and taken care of. We loved it all!
New Zealand Walking Adventure, March 2024
Gayle
5 Stars (239 reviews)
Traveling with Active Adventures to New Zealand was my first solo hiking trip. I admit I am still a beginner hiker, but the activity levels helped me decide that I was ready for a level 2 adventure. From the moment I met the group and our two guides, Noah and Koru, I knew I had made the right decision. We made several stops along our way around the South Island, hiking, shopping, eating and just enjoying. With the exception of one hike, I felt comfortable yet challenged making my way along the hikes. (I should have done more stair work before I went, because the land does undulate more than I realized!)
Koru and Noah worked together seamlessly driving us from location to location, explaining the meaning and history of the country and the people, cooking for us and there were great choices of restaurants when we went out to eat.
Although the trip could have accommodated more people, our group consisted of seven. It was great to meet and get to know these wonderful people that travelled with me. There was never a time that I felt unsafe or confused about the days events and was allowed to sit out a hike due to a blister...yes, I am still learning to deal with the blisters.
I just can't say enough about how great this trip was.
New Zealand Walking Adventure, March 2024
Cecile
5 Stars (239 reviews)
The trip was beyond amazing. Our group was a nice small size with everyone getting along fabulously and our guides were outstanding from day 1 with their knowledge and love for the country as well as the outdoors and trails we explored. One guide cooked on occasion and the meals were delicious ; better than a restaurant. The weather cooperated but even when it did not that did not damper our spirits, rather it enhanced the day with the elements reminding us of where we were. We were definitely fortunate and now have such wonderful memories
New Zealand Walking Adventure, March 2024
Harriet
5 Stars (239 reviews)
We had a fabulous trip to New Zealand's south island with Active Adventures. Every need we could possibly think of was planned for, and seemlessly. I have an unusual special diet, and they accommodated my needs perfectly! That allowed me to relax and fully enjoy the trip. What a pleasure it was to let someone else do the driving on those long windy roads and plan the meals. It was such a stress-free vacation in such a beautiful place!
New Zealand Walking Adventure, February 2024
Joanne
4 Stars (239 reviews)
What a fabulous trip! Exceptional attention to detail.
New Zealand Walking Adventure, February 2024
Raymond
5 Stars (239 reviews)
Wow. Hard to know where to start. The entire trip easily exceeded my expectations from start to finish. Our very capable tour guides welcomed us to our new home away from home, "William" the van, and we were whisked away with good humor and conversation to begin exploring the wonders of the South Island. We quickly learned that our food would be designed with our tastes in mind, emphasizing healthy meals with fresh, local ingredients. Kayla, the primary chef, went above and beyond creating tasty food for all, and accommodating a variety of preferences. She would adjust her cooking as she learned more about what everyone liked. The guides quickly learned to make LOTS of coffee to start the day, a welcome beginning. We also got to explore selected restaurants with great food, really enjoyed the seafood in particular. The accommodations were overall excellent with comfortable beds and amazing water pressure in the showers. And then there was the hiking. We had the opportunity to explore some truly incredibly beautiful places and took advantage of adding swims in the ocean after hiking when we could. The guides were super helpful with allowing some of us to do more and some less, often providing several different options. Overall, fantastic trip!
New Zealand Walking Adventure, February 2024
Lynn
5 Stars (239 reviews)
This trip provided a variety of hikes through beautiful rain forests, beaches and mountains. We were always given a choice between an easier hike and a more strenuous hike. I would highly recommend the Heli-Hike on Franz Josef glacier. It was a unique and very memorable experience. Mel and Kayla were excellent guides for this trip. Most of the meals were prepared and cooked by Mel and Kayla and they provided a variety of delicious meals. They also made accommodations for those with dietary restrictions. Mel provided a sarcastic wit and was very knowledgeable with answering questions. She was also an amazing driver through some very windy roads with a bus and attached trailer to navigate. Mel and Kayla provided a fun, safe, delicious and adventurous trip. I highly recommend this trip for anyone looking to hike, kayak and wine taste in an absolutely beautiful country.
New Zealand Walking Adventure, February 2024
Don