A true taste of New Zealand

New Zealand | Mar 21 - Apr 1, 2023

M Social was our first accommodation when we arrived to New Zealand at 6:30 in the morning. When our driver dropped us off at the hotel they had a room available for us and we were given complimentary early check-in. That was such a welcomed delight after 20 hours of travel! Everything was clean and the breakfast buffet had a wide variety of tasty offerings. The staff was pleasant and welcoming. I would definitely stay here again.

We stayed here for a total of three nights on our visit to the South Island. One night before we departed to tour the island and then for two before we caught our flight home. Our accommodation was roomy for 3 traveling adults. We loved having separate bedrooms with the living area to share. The heated bathroom floor was an added bonus! What ended up being the best we’re the e-bikes they have available for rental. We used them on our free day to explore Christchurch. Hagley park is located close by and has lots of trails to enjoy. Plus the botanical gardens is just over a mile walking distance away. All of the people working reception were kind, courteous, and welcoming.

Being able to look out our window to see Mt. Cook was nothing short of amazing. The sky windows are awesome for experiencing sleeping under the breath taking night sky. We stayed in the motel that had a full kitchen for making your own meals. However we did not do that for our single night stay. We had breakfast and dinner up at the lodge. The timing was such that we had the buffet meals. The food was delicious with a wide variety of choices. The wait staff was outstanding!

This place is truly a home away from home. Everything was clean and welcoming. Having a washer and drier was perfect as we were midway through our trip.

A very unique place to stay. It truly is in the rainforest. They had a kitchenette in the room with Keurig coffee maker, hot water heater, electric frother and toaster available.

A nice place to stay. Accommodation is average.

Our lodging was spacious and comfortable.

We were blessed to have a clear beautiful calm day! The whole experience was relaxing and magical. Our guide, native of Ohio, did a wonderful job sharing the history of the area and educating us about the environment and wildlife of the area.

This bike ride was one of the highlights of our visit. The trail was beautiful as it followed the path of the river.

This day trip is nothing short of amazing! It is a must see for everyone visiting New Zealand South Island! Having a bus ride in allows for everyone to enjoy the view of the twisty turny drive to Milford Sound.

The entire evening is a delightful experience. The event is designed to make friends with the Māori village and fellow travelers. We learned much about the history and culture of the Māori people and enjoyed taking part in activities, listening to their music and enjoying superior hospitality for dinner. This is a must for a North Island visit to New Zealand. Added plus, they pick you up from your accommodation to take you to the village.

This was a wonderful farm to table experience. The sheep shearing and sheep herding demonstration is amazing for those of us unfamiliar with this environment.

This is a must for LOTR and Hobbit fans! And even if you aren’t this setting is like stepping into a magical fairytale land! It is something everyone who visits New Zealand should take in! Ending the tour having a drink at the Green Dragon is an opportunity to meet and talk with other travelers from all over the world if you so choose.

This was a great experience to get out on the waters near Auckland. However on our tour we did not see any whales or dolphins. But we did get a lifetime voucher to come back anytime to try again.

Kayaking in the moonlight makes this adventurous! We were able to experience seeing the glow worms in a few different caves. Another highlight was the beauty of the night sky! Our guides did a great job leading us in the darkness. This is a unique New Zealand experience.