New Zealand Travel Agents

Kimkim has selected the best New Zealand travel agents so you'll have a worry-free trip.
With kimkim you will connect directly to a local specialist in New Zealand who will personalize your trip to your specific tastes. Once we have a sense of who you are and what you're looking for, you'll be matched with the right local travel agent for you. Not everyone wants to get completely off the grid—but even if you want to hit the most popular sites and cities, kimkim ensures a customized experience, including lodging, guides, and transportation.
Learn more: How kimkim Trips Work
Plan your trip to New Zealand
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.

Liz Neal

(68 reviews)
New Zealand Travel Agent based in Sydney-Auckland-Los Angeles
Liz specializes in: Unique and authentic adventure in the South Pacific for singles, couples, families and small groups.
Recent traveler reviews for Liz:
"Liz Neal was absolutely amazing to work with." - by Brian, Jan 19, 2025 · see review
"Liz was extremely helpful in planning a doable itinerary for them and booking all the hotels, tours, and transfers." - by Geetha, Jan 10, 2025 · see review
"Liz was wonderful to work with and collaboarate with in planning our Australia trip." - by Shannan, Jan 6, 2025 · see review

Vicky Steinhardt

(42 reviews)
New Zealand Travel Agent based in Noosa, Australia
Vicky specializes in: Tailor made travel, Family travel, Off the beaten track adventures, Unique locations, Honeymoons
Recent traveler reviews for Vicky:
"Vicky, our travel agent was very knowledgeable and accommodating to our requests and situations." - by Licille, Jan 21, 2025 · see review
"Vicky was the best Specialist!" - by Stephanie, Jan 18, 2025 · see review
"Vicky responded quick when we had questions or wanted to adjust the itinerary." - by Sytske, Jan 18, 2025 · see review

Franck Lemaitre

(29 reviews)
New Zealand Travel Agent based in Auckland, New Zealand
Franck specializes in: self-drive tours, luxurious accommodation, cycling, hiking, wildlife
Recent traveler reviews for Franck:
"We had an amazing trip planned for New Zealand, with the help from Franck, our tour guide." - by Maile, May 9, 2024 · see review
"Thank you Franck, of KimKim/Once in a Lifetime." - by Jodi Lynn, Apr 2, 2024 · see review
"Franck was able to plan the perfect vacation for us." - by Anna, Mar 31, 2024 · see review

Connie Campos

(26 reviews)
New Zealand Travel Agent based in Washington and New Zealand
Connie specializes in: Bring your dream trip to life with Bespoke custom travel. I craft custom vacations to Australia and New Zealand.
Recent traveler reviews for Connie:
"Connie and Sherry were great!" - by Dennis, Oct 8, 2024 · see review
"Connie was super helpful in helping me to arrange a fairly last-minute trip to Sydney and Melbourne." - by Doug, Aug 26, 2024 · see review
"Connie made sure we had an action packed vacation while still being able to delve into the beauty of Australia and New Zealand." - by Laura, Jul 1, 2024 · see review

Ruth Grau

(21 reviews)
New Zealand Travel Agent based in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA
Ruth specializes in: Luxury, Adventure, Family, Couples, Singles, Unique & Authentic, LGBTQ Travel
Recent traveler reviews for Ruth:
"I am extremely happy with how things were organized; with all the guides involved and Ruth and Sherry for helping to put everything together and help with the glitches." - by Nikola, Nov 16, 2024 · see review
"Our planner Ruth did an amazing job!" - by Carlos, Apr 7, 2024 · see review
"This is the second time that Ruth has organised an amazing trip for us." - by Annette, Apr 4, 2024 · see review

Paula Adams

(19 reviews)
New Zealand Travel Agent based in California and Australia
Paula specializes in: Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and French Polynesia
Recent traveler reviews for Paula:
"Paula became our contact and adviser and she put together a well-tailored holiday for our needs." - by Sharon, Jan 9, 2025 · see review
"When we needed to get in touch with agents both Paula and Sherri were helpful and timely with their responses." - by Genevieve, Oct 7, 2024 · see review
"Paula was a huge help with the planning of our trip to Australia." - by K, Sep 15, 2024 · see review

Michelle Srzich

(13 reviews)
New Zealand Travel Agent based in Auckland, New Zealand
Michelle specializes in: Bespoke and tailor-made self-drive itineraries, luxury travel, active adventure
Recent traveler reviews for Michelle:
"Michelle was fantastic in helping us understanding some of the amazing places and activities available." - by Paul, Jan 15, 2025 · see review
"I had the absolute best time on my New Zealand trip, all thanks to KimKim and their amazing local guide Michelle!" - by Denise, Jan 12, 2025 · see review
"We have SO MANY wonderful memories & photos from the trip thanks to Michelle's guidance in planning and pacing." - by Kayla, Jan 1, 2025 · see review

Monika Vinsova

(9 reviews)
New Zealand Travel Agent based in Queenstown, New Zealand
Monika specializes in: self-drive tours, luxury travels, wildlife, adventure and active trips, romantic vacations, wine tours, wellness
Recent traveler reviews for Monika:
"Monika contacted me and followed through everything she said." - by Mor, Jan 7, 2025 · see review
"Friend and I decided to book a trip to New Zealand somewhat last minute (roughly 2 or 3 months prior to the trip) and Monika was so accommodating and easy to work with throughout the planning phase." - by Trent, Nov 21, 2024 · see review
"Monika, we can’t thank you enough for helping us plan a trip of a lifetime." - by Scott, Apr 27, 2024 · see review

Asko Merilainen

(8 reviews)
New Zealand Travel Agent based in Melbourne, Australia
Asko specializes in: Custom made itineraries, unique & authentic stays, nature & wildlife, food & wine, luxury, honeymoon, self-drive, couples, singles, LGBTQ Travel
Recent traveler reviews for Asko:
"Asko was easily reachable when we had questions." - by Elizabeth, Nov 2, 2024 · see review
"We recently had an amazing experience with Kimkim , specifically with the help of their local specialist, Asko, during our 5-day stay in Cairns, Australia." - by Naz, Jul 27, 2024 · see review
"It was everything we could have asked for, and Asko was amazing at helping us plan every detail." - by Beth, Jun 19, 2024 · see review

Uma Natarajan

(5 reviews)
New Zealand Travel Agent based in New Zealand
Uma specializes in: Leisure Holidays, Honeymoon, Special Interest
Recent traveler reviews for Uma:
"Uma was amazing with great local recommendations and was available throughout the trip with changes." - by David, Apr 25, 2024 · see review
"Uma is the best!" - by Enrico, Mar 28, 2024 · see review
"We absolutely loved the itinerary that Uma came up with based on our interview and our time available to explore both the North and South Islands." - by Joanna, Mar 22, 2024 · see review

Liz Wilson

(1 review)
New Zealand Travel Agent based in Wanaka
Liz specializes in: New Zealand and Australia Travel
The most important thing to take away from any travel experience is learning something new about a different country, culture, or history. I love to find out my clients' interests and finding a way to incorporate new experiences that will resonate with them in their itineraries. read more

Nats Subramanian

(1 review)
New Zealand Travel Agent based in New Zealand
Nats specializes in: Customized New Zealand Travel Packages, Unique Experiences
Uma and I are the founders of our company Take Me 2 The World, specializing in creating personalized itineraries and organizing the whole trip for our clients. We strongly believe that travel is very personal and one glove doesn't fit all. That is why we work closely with our guests to understand... read more
Nats's Favorite Itineraries:

More in New Zealand


Trip Reviews for New Zealand

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim
4.8
Based on 161 ratings

Liz Neal was absolutely amazing to work with....
New Zealand | Dec 27 - Jan 12, 2025

B
Brian D.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jan 19, 2025
Liz Neal was absolutely amazing to work with. Her organization, expertise & detail created the opportunity for a trip of a lifetime! Highlights included:
- Waiheke Island Hop on Hop Off Bus
- Rotorua Glow Work Kayak
- Mt Tarawera Crater Walk
- Maori Dining Experience
- Pohue Purepod
- Lake Tekapo
- Cass Valley 4WD Tour
- Mt Cook; Glacier Boat Trip & Helicopter
- Queenstown; Funyak River Safari
- Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise
Read more

Liz Neal was absolutely amazing to work with. Her organization, expertise & detail created the opportunity for a trip of a lifetime!

Highlights included:
- Waiheke Island Hop on Hop Off Bus
- Rotorua Glow Work Kayak
- Mt Tarawera Crater Walk
- Maori Dining Experience
- Pohue Purepod
- Lake Tekapo
- Cass Valley 4WD Tour
- Mt Cook; Glacier Boat Trip & Helicopter
- Queenstown; Funyak River Safari
- Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise

Hotel Reviews
M Social
Auckland
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Regent of Rotorua
Rotorua
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Rees Hotel
Queenstown
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
PurePod Port Levy, Banks Peninsula (Pohue)
Pohue
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Grand Suites
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Hermitage Hotel
Mount Cook Village
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, an IHG Hotel
Natadola, Fiji
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Full-Day Jet-Boat Adventure & Funyak River Safari
Full-Day Jet-Boat Adventure & Funyak River Safari
Queenstown (NZ)
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Skyline Gondola Ride
Skyline Gondola Ride
Queenstown (NZ)
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tu Te Ra - Maori Cultural Dining Experience
Tu Te Ra - Maori Cultural Dining Experience
Rotorua
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Glacier Boat Trip -
Glacier Boat Trip -
Aoraki / Mount Cook Village
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Mt Tarawera Crater Walk Experience
Half Day Mt Tarawera Crater Walk Experience
Rotorua
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Mt Cook & The Glaciers
Mt Cook & The Glaciers
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Auckland to Rotorua visiting Hobbiton with lunch
Auckland to Rotorua visiting Hobbiton with lunch
Auckland
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Twilight Glow Worm Kayak Experience - 3 hour guided
Twilight Glow Worm Kayak Experience - 3 hour guided
Rotorua
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Cass Valley 4WD Backcountry tour
Half Day Cass Valley 4WD Backcountry tour
Lake Tekapo
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Spend the night at your offgrid glass cabin
Spend the night at your offgrid glass cabin
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Garden Onsen Outdoor Soak (From 5pm) 1 hour -
Garden Onsen Outdoor Soak (From 5pm) 1 hour -
Queenstown (NZ)
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Navigator Overnight Cruise Return ex Zqn - Private Cabin. Includes Dinner & Full Breakfast
Navigator Overnight Cruise Return ex Zqn - Private Cabin. Includes Dinner & Full Breakfast
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Liz Neal

We absolutely loved our trip to New Zealand! ...
New Zealand | Dec 30 - Jan 11, 2025

Paul
Paul D.
Livonia, MI | Reviewed on Jan 15, 2025
We absolutely loved our trip to New Zealand! Michelle was fantastic in helping us understanding some of the amazing places and activities available. We really we were able to do and see much more with her help in organizing and planning from biking, rafting, hiking, flying, fjord's, ballooning, glaciers, star gazing, jet boating and majestic scenery. We loved our visit impart because of Michelle's help and expertise. Read more

We absolutely loved our trip to New Zealand! Michelle was fantastic in helping us understanding some of the amazing places and activities available. We really we were able to do and see much more with her help in organizing and planning from biking, rafting, hiking, flying, fjord's, ballooning, glaciers, star gazing, jet boating and majestic scenery. We loved our visit impart because of Michelle's help and expertise.

Activity Reviews
Jet Boat the Shotover River
Jet Boat the Shotover River
Queenstown (NZ)
Fly Cruise Fly – Queenstown to Milford Sound by scenic flight
Fly Cruise Fly – Queenstown to Milford Sound by scenic flight
Queenstown (NZ)
Te  Pā Tū  - Maori Cultural Experience
Te Pā Tū - Maori Cultural Experience
Rotorua
Mt Cook half day Heli Hike
Mt Cook half day Heli Hike
New Zealand

wow

Ferry to Waiheke Island
Ferry to Waiheke Island
Auckland
Eco Zip - Flying Fox ziplines & Native Walks Experience
Eco Zip - Flying Fox ziplines & Native Walks Experience
New Zealand
Timber Trail day 2
Timber Trail day 2
Ongarue
Timber Trail Day 1
Timber Trail Day 1
Ongarue
 Rafting Kaituna River, grade 5
Rafting Kaituna River, grade 5
Rotorua
The Crater Experience - stargazing Tekapo
The Crater Experience - stargazing Tekapo
Lake Tekapo

amazing experience in seeing our universe.

Local specialist: Michelle Srzich
Michelle
Michelle Srzich
Local specialist in Auckland, New Zealand | Replied on Jan 15, 2025

Thanks for your feedback and I am so thrilled to hear you had such a great time in New Zealand and appreciated my expertise in the planning. We put together your trip without too much notice ( I think within a month of your making an enquiry you were travelling) so I was happy to be able to find and put together all of those active experiences you were looking for.
I thought you would enjoy the Timber Trail especially so am really glad we were able to fit that epic 2 day cycle trip within your itinerary along with all the stunning scenery you experienced.
Happy future travels!

We had a great time.
New Zealand | Jan 1 - Jan 10, 2025

Heather
Heather A.
Van Buren, AR | Reviewed on Jan 13, 2025
We had a great time. The planning looked like it took a lot of work. The only activity that we did not do was the dinner at Ahi and we were not picked up at the airport. The accommodations were nice. The only issue was the Chalet Queenstown. It was a little loud, hot and the limited breakfast times did not fit our schedule either day that we were there. The pure pod was awesome. If possible we would definitely use this company again. Thank you for your help and hard work. Read more

We had a great time. The planning looked like it took a lot of work. The only activity that we did not do was the dinner at Ahi and we were not picked up at the airport. The accommodations were nice. The only issue was the Chalet Queenstown. It was a little loud, hot and the limited breakfast times did not fit our schedule either day that we were there. The pure pod was awesome. If possible we would definitely use this company again. Thank you for your help and hard work.

Hotel Reviews
The Prince's Gate Hotel
Rotorua

This hotel was unique and we had a great stay. The staff was very nice and the breakfast was good. We got to walk to most of our activities from the hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Vicarage Geraldine
Geraldine

This hotel was unique. I loved it. There were so many thoughtful details. The location was great.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Hermitage Hotel
Mount Cook Village

Nice hotel. The rooms were pretty basic but the views were outstanding. They provided the best breakfast during our trip. We were able to walk to our scheduled activity and to a few hikes.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
PurePod Rakiura Stewart Island (Hananui)
Christchurch

This was a very interesting experience. I loved it. It was a bit of a hike to get to but very much worth it. I would have liked to have had the electrical power to dry my hair but it worked out. I was sad to leave.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Chalet Queenstown
Queenstown

This was a cute place. There were some issues. It was very hot and loud in our room so it was difficult to sleep. The breakfast was only from 8a to 9:30a. We had to be out before 8a both days that we were there. The hostess did make sure that we had some cereal and toast. My husband had to wake her up on the day we were leaving because she had us blocked it with her car. There were so many hotels in that city with views of the lake but our room had a view into the house next door.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sudima Auckland City
Auckland

It was a basic hotel. It did the job.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Ahi Restaurant - 4 snacks and 4 courses
Ahi Restaurant - 4 snacks and 4 courses
Auckland

We canceled our reservation because after looking at the menu, I was not confident there was going to be anything I would like.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
New Zealand

We loved this tour. It was one of the first things we did and it set the trip off well. The drive there was beautiful. The tour was great .

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Te Pā Tū Māori Feast & Performance
Te Pā Tū Māori Feast & Performance
Rotorua

It was nice that the company drove us to the location from a convenient location. It was interactive and interesting. The dinner was good. It rained on us a little bit but it was still good.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Zipline Canopy Tour
Zipline Canopy Tour
Rotorua

This activity was a lot of fun. It was nice that they put so much about conservation into the tour. The staff was wonderful.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Glowworm Paddle Board Tour
Glowworm Paddle Board Tour
Rotorua

This was an amazing experience. Kayaking at night was very cool, the glow worms were beautiful, and the star gazing was amazing. It was a little cold and late but not much can be done about that.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kayak Tasman Glacier Lake
Kayak Tasman Glacier Lake
New Zealand

It was okay. There wasn't much to it even though it was 5 hours long. Most of the time was walking to the location and getting the boats set up. The guide was very intense. This is one that we probably wouldn't do again.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Fly Cruise Fly – Queenstown to Milford Sound by scenic flight
Fly Cruise Fly – Queenstown to Milford Sound by scenic flight
Queenstown (NZ)

Great experience. The flight was great. We had so many amazing views. The cruise was also great.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Safari of the scenes Glenorchy (LOTR)
Safari of the scenes Glenorchy (LOTR)
Queenstown (NZ)

This was a nice tout. The scenery was great and the guide was friendly.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Michelle Srzich
Michelle
Michelle Srzich
Local specialist in Auckland, New Zealand | Replied on Jan 15, 2025
Hi Heather and thanks for your review and feedback. I am so glad to hear you had a great time in New Zealand and especially the PurePod - aren't they awesome!
I have reviewed your feedback about missing the airport transfer we arranged and will pass this on to the supplier of the service as sometimes it is hard to locate travellers amongst the airport crowds.
I hope your 1 star review of Ahi restaurant does not put other visitors off trying this restaurant since you didn't actually eat...
Read more

Hi Heather and thanks for your review and feedback. I am so glad to hear you had a great time in New Zealand and especially the PurePod - aren't they awesome!
I have reviewed your feedback about missing the airport transfer we arranged and will pass this on to the supplier of the service as sometimes it is hard to locate travellers amongst the airport crowds.
I hope your 1 star review of Ahi restaurant does not put other visitors off trying this restaurant since you didn't actually eat there, we receive great feedback and highly recommend it as a place to enjoy great New Zealand cuisine.
Once again thanks for taking the time to provide feedback and happy future travels!

PERFECTLY ORGANIZED
New Zealand | Dec 16 - Dec 24, 2024

D
Denise H.
Germany | Reviewed on Jan 12, 2025
I had the absolute best time on my New Zealand trip, all thanks to KimKim and their amazing local guide Michelle! From start to finish, everything was organized so seamlessly that all I had to do was show up and enjoy the adventure. I kicked things off in Auckland, where I was greeted with a hotel room that had a window view so beautiful it felt like I was in a postcard. Day one started with a bang at the Weta Workshop, which is an absolute must for any movie buff. Michelle called me on... Read more

I had the absolute best time on my New Zealand trip, all thanks to KimKim and their amazing local guide Michelle! From start to finish, everything was organized so seamlessly that all I had to do was show up and enjoy the adventure.

I kicked things off in Auckland, where I was greeted with a hotel room that had a window view so beautiful it felt like I was in a postcard. Day one started with a bang at the Weta Workshop, which is an absolute must for any movie buff. Michelle called me on day two to check in and casually save the day by reminding me that Ubers were a great way to get around. Later, I was whisked away to pick up my rental car, and drove to Hobbiton, which felt like stepping into a dream.

Michelle made sure I always had enough time to get from city to city without ever feeling rushed and the hotels were consistently stellar. She also hit it out of the park with her activity recommendations. The Maori Cultural Experience in Rotorua? Unforgettable. The Waitomo Glowworm Caves, zip-lining and the Wai-O-Tapu hot springs? Pure magic!

Every single activity was thoughtfully chosen and perfectly tailored to my tastes. Even the little touches were perfect—like the recommended restaurants and lunch stops, which came in so handy. If you’re on the fence about booking with KimKim -- just do it! I trusted their judgment completely, and they delivered in every way.

Can’t wait to book my next trip with them!

Hotel Reviews
M Social
Auckland
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Millennium Hotel & Resort Manuels Taupo
Taupo
Authenticity & Character
Location
The views were amazing, the staff was super friendly and don't get me started on their breakfast. One of the best I've ever had at any hotel so far.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Regent of Rotorua
Rotorua
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
QT Wellington
Wellington
Authenticity & Character
Loved the creative, museum-like flair of the hotel.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Glowworm Paddle Board Tour
Glowworm Paddle Board Tour
Rotorua
Quality of Experience
A once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Lake Taupō Cruise to the Māori Rock Carvings
Lake Taupō Cruise to the Māori Rock Carvings
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
A dream come true for any movie buff!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Te  Pā Tū  - Maori Cultural Experience
Te Pā Tū - Maori Cultural Experience
Rotorua
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Zipline Canopy Tour
Zipline Canopy Tour
Rotorua
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Michelle Srzich
Michelle
Michelle Srzich
Local specialist in Auckland, New Zealand | Replied on Jan 15, 2025

Hi Denise and thank you so much for your review - it has made my day!
I do always try to match the activities and accommodation to what I think the traveler will enjoy and I'm thrilled I was able to put together a trip that perfectly hit the mark.
Happy future travels with Kimkim!

Blown Away!
New Zealand | Dec 2 - Dec 18, 2024

Sharon
Sharon P.
Spain | Reviewed on Jan 09, 2025
Being at a loss on how to plan a trip to New Zealand, we came across this company through an internet search. Paula became our contact and adviser and she put together a well-tailored holiday for our needs. Everything went off smoothly from landing in Queenstown until handing in our hire car at Auckland airport. We really enjoyed our trip to Milford Sound and our guide Paulie, was brilliant. Another highlight was our Rob Roy Glacier tour at Wanaka. Our guide Thierry was fantastic and made... Read more

Being at a loss on how to plan a trip to New Zealand, we came across this company through an internet search. Paula became our contact and adviser and she put together a well-tailored holiday for our needs. Everything went off smoothly from landing in Queenstown until handing in our hire car at Auckland airport. We really enjoyed our trip to Milford Sound and our guide Paulie, was brilliant. Another highlight was our Rob Roy Glacier tour at Wanaka. Our guide Thierry was fantastic and made the trip so enjoyable despite my throbbing feet. Sadly we couldn’t do our tours at Mount Cook due to poor weather but we made the most of the available walks and were taken aback when Aoraki finally made an appearance from behind the clouds on our last day.

It was then off to Rotorua where we watched our daughter compete at the Ironman 70.3 World Championships. The Big Kanu glow worm tour was fascinating, as was the Hells Gate experience. We were a little disappointed with the Kahukiwi experience as it seemed a little disorganised and unstructured although the guide was friendly and extremely helpful.

In summary, a well organised and satisfying first trip to New Zealand. We would have no hesitation in recommending your company to others. Our thanks to Paula for putting all together and putting up with our endless messages.

Thanks!

Hotel Reviews
Scenic Suites Queenstown
Queenstown

Handy apartments for visiting Queenstown. Very comfortable with all the amenities. Only observation was to try to avoid getting a room too close to the road as happened to us. People walking by could look into our apartment and there was traffic noise.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Edgewater Wanaka
Lake Wānaka

This was a beautiful hotel next to the lake in a tranquil setting. Like being in the centre of a golf course. Although the rooms were well equipped, our room seemed antiquated, with a tired bathroom. Maybe up for renovation soon?

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Hermitage Hotel
Mount Cook Village

The place to stay in this area with commanding views of Mount Cook when the clouds clear. Our room although well equipped was on the small side and felt a little cramped. Apart from driving and walking around the beautiful scenery, there isn’t much else to do here. Maybe other activities could be offered when the weather is bad and organised tours get cancelled. All we got was a refund which was fine but perhaps alternatives would be more enjoyable.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Chateau on the Park -
Christchurch

Our favourite hotel during our holiday. Comfortable rooms, great location and even played a game of outdoor chess. Only criticism: our check in was delayed by a couple of hours due to airline staff being given permission to check out late. Took a bit too long with only a drink voucher to make up for it.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Airedale Boutique Suites
Auckland

Well situated hotel in the business district of Auckland. Handy valet parking took the stress out of finding a car park on our own. Modern comfortable rooms with all the amenities we required. Recommended.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise from Queenstown (2 days, 1 night)
Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise from Queenstown (2 days, 1 night)
Queenstown (NZ)

An overnight tour here was the best thing to do to avoid most of the day cooped up in a coach or car. Milford Sound was a brooding and cascading experience that we would recommend. Hats off to Paulie our guide, who provided so much information about New Zealand and the trip whilst driving us effortlessly through the winding roads.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide Paulie was excellent.
Transport
Full Day Gourmet Scenic Wine Tour
Full Day Gourmet Scenic Wine Tour
Queenstown (NZ)

Enjoyed our trip to the vineyards and we were lucky with the weather. Finally know a bit more about NZ wines. The meal was interesting and enjoyable. A good day out.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Rob Roy Glacier ex Wanaka
Full Day Rob Roy Glacier ex Wanaka
Wānaka

We were the only people doing this tour that day. Our guide Thierry was fantastic, from picking us up to guiding us along the walk, sharing his favourite tree with us and sorting us out with lunch. Highly recommended to anyone capable of walking over uneven ground for several hours. You won’t regret it!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Thierry was great!
Transport
Bumpy ride
Big Kanu Starlight Glow Worm Tour
Big Kanu Starlight Glow Worm Tour
Rotorua

Fascinating to see these glow worms in action when night starts creeping in. The guides were quite entertaining too. Recommended!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Redwoods Treewalk day
Redwoods Treewalk day
Rotorua

A comfortable stroll through these amazing trees along walkways and platforms. Nothing. We enjoyed our visit.

Quality of Experience
The Hell's Gate Experience
The Hell's Gate Experience
Rotorua

Fascinating to see these geysers and hot pools bubbling away. Lethal if you fall in! The mud bath experience was also enjoyable. Recommended!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Half Day Kahukiwi Experience
Half Day Kahukiwi Experience
Rotorua

Our Māori guide was a lovely man but the tour lacked structure with just information being thrown at us in a haphazard manner. We did learn about some of the legends but this tour could have been a lot better.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Paula Adams
Paula
Paula Adams
Local specialist in California and Australia | Replied on Jan 09, 2025
G'day Sharon & family, Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a thoughtful review. Your feedback is truly appreciated and helps me continue to craft great itineraries for future clients. It was an absolute pleasure working with you, and I sincerely appreciate your patience throughout the entire process. I’m so glad I could be a part of your travel journey! The pictures you shared are absolutely wonderful, and I’m in awe of Alex’s incredible strength and determination to... Read more

G'day Sharon & family,

Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a thoughtful review. Your feedback is truly appreciated and helps me continue to craft great itineraries for future clients.

It was an absolute pleasure working with you, and I sincerely appreciate your patience throughout the entire process. I’m so glad I could be a part of your travel journey!

The pictures you shared are absolutely wonderful, and I’m in awe of Alex’s incredible strength and determination to compete in an Ironman—what an amazing accomplishment!

Thank you again for keeping me updated on your journey. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like to explore another part of the South Pacific in the future. It would be a pleasure to assist you again!

Cheers,
Paula