Visit New Zealand
It would have been impossible to have had a better experience than this one with Active New Zealand and recommend them wholeheartedly if you are looking for something a little different. The "Manuka" stayed strictly in the South Island and gave us a completely different New Zealand experience than the first time around. It was "soft" enough for anyone in decent physical condition and exposed us to activities that ex-Marine and I probably would never have done on our own. For example, the Siberia Experience. If I had said, "Steve (ex-Marine), let's go jet boating...and take a ride in a small plane into the mountains...", he would have probably replied..."Are you out of your mind?" ...and then thrown in many, choice swear words on the subject of my sanity....., and the:
- tour price was reasonable;
- group size small enough to really intereact and get to know each other;
- lodging choices were unique - little cottages, A-frames, spacious apartments with a deck to enjoy; and
- a varied itinerary.
When "Fish" and Kent weren't cooking, they always had input for excellent restaurants in any price range (this included a wonderful pizza restaurant in Queenstown - sorry, don't remember the name), and we enjoyed the freedom to wander around by ourselves on several occasions.
On my next trip to New Zealand - hopefully, there will be a next trip -
- I'd like to go back to Rotorua, stay in a nice hotel and really see it (there is supposed to be great fishing around there is you like to fish);
- Return to Tongariro and do the entire Tongariro Crossing, a 7-8 hour tramp up and over the volcanic terrain seeing lava flows, an active crater, steam vents and emerald lacks. We did a small out-and-back on this crossing because you need to arrange transport back to the start from the end of the Crossing;
- Tramp the Routeburn and Hollyford Tracks. (Scope out the New Zealand Department of Conservation website for independent bookings and costs.) I would these with an organized group because it's so much easier, but it is also downright inexpensive (or cheap) to do it yourself if that's your druthers; and
- Return to Queenstown one more time.
It's no wonder everyone loves New Zealand. Whether you want an active holiday filled with adrenaline or one that meanders through New Zealand visiting Lord of The Rings destinations or exploring wineries or eating wonderful food, New Zealand is most definitely THE PLACE. Check it out...don't pray for rain...and who knows.... The Routeburn Track is whispering..."Sheila, come walk me"...(if my knees hold out)... and if you recognize my curly head on top of a Queenstown mountain, I'll be trying to gather up every ounce of courage, close my eyes, and tandem hang glide off that peak... See you there!
