New Zealand - I loved it so much I became a Kiwi!
One of the most beautiful countries I have ever visited is New Zealand. In fact, I loved it so much I made it my home for over seven years and even became a New Zealand citizen. If you are dreaming of a trip filled with dramatic scenery, epic road journeys and warm local hospitality, New Zealand is the place.
I first travelled there in 1996 as part of a work trip. Already an Australia and New Zealand travel specialist, I wanted to learn more about Australia’s stunning neighbour. We landed in Christchurch on the South Island and I visited Dunedin, Queenstown, Wānaka, Milford Sound and Nelson. The combination of snow-capped mountains, mirror-like lakes and rugged coastline, along with the genuine friendliness of the Kiwi people, made a huge impression on me and sparked a lifelong love affair with New Zealand.
Fast forward five years and, in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, I was made redundant from the travel job I loved. So I did what any adventure-lover might secretly dream of: I booked a one-way ticket and headed back to New Zealand. I planned to stay four months... and ended up living there for nearly eight years.
During that time, I had the absolute time of my life exploring both the North and South Islands. I went bungy jumping in Queenstown, snowboarding in the Southern Alps, zip-lining through native forest, white-water rafting, cave exploring, volcano climbing and whisky tasting, and I completed many wonderful walks across the length and breadth of New Zealand, including remote corners of Stewart Island. I experienced the country the way my clients dream of: on unforgettable self-drive road trips, staying in charming lodges and B&Bs, and discovering those tucked-away spots that most tourists never reach.
So if you need a genuine New Zealand travel specialist, look no further. How genuine am I? Genuine enough to take citizenship in 2007 and proudly call myself a Kiwi.
I can:
Help you design tailor-made New Zealand itineraries Plan your self-drive routes around the North and South Islands Recommend hidden-gem towns, wineries and viewpoints your average tourist will not see Advise on best seasons to travel, scenic routes and stopovers Guide you on air fares and routing options from the UK Talking about New Zealand holidays is one of my favourite subjects. If you are considering a New Zealand tour, road trip or multi-centre itinerary, I would love to help you create something truly special.
Contact me today to start planning your New Zealand adventure.