I was extremely impressed with Greg and Elder. They were genuinely caring and thoughtful. I thought they must have been working hard behind the scenes - but never showed this or complained. They were just really good company - fun, genuine, interesting and easy to talk to. There was quite a bit of driving on the trip and I really enjoyed the commentary that Greg gave. It was super interesting, informative and engaging. He gave just enough, but not too much and timed his "commentary stints" really well. As it was such a small group, with just three tourists, I really appreciated Greg and Elder joining us for a few meals as well. There were plenty of opportunities to get out of the van and go for walks, which I appreciated. And of course, the views and scenery were mind-blowing. We were incredibly fortunate with the weather, which was perfect. The accommodation was all really good - with all the comforts needed at the end of the day.
Guides were exceptional, helpful and thoughtful for everyone's personal needs. Very safety conscious, but not overbearing. Contrasting guide personalities - interesting and helpful. My dietary challenged exceptionally well managed/catered for. Thank you!
I have had great diffuculty rating this trip and even with the benefit of time, I just cannot give it more than 4 stars, I really wanted too but although there is nothing wrong with the trip at all and it is exactly as promised in the brochure, I can't help feeling just a bit disappointed. That may sound churlish on what is otherwise an excellent over 3 week trip to a stunning country with fantastic settings for those who love the outdoors, that was superbly organised. But perhaps that's it, the trip is exactly as planned as described and there was not that sudden "surprise" moment you get on other trips. The trip perhaps tries to be too many things to everyone, accepting this may be many peoples only taste of New Zealand, so although it is 3 weeks long, there is an awful lot packed in and being honest the hiking was really relatively easy and it is apparent there are so many fantastic longer hikes available, so I think I would have prefered it to have been able to indulge in one of the longer multi-day hikes, rather than just doing a bit of several of the classic hikes.