Our first road trip in many years was a success!
New Zealand
|
Feb 29 - Mar 17, 2024
Our first road trip in many years was an amazing 18 day journey through the north and south Islands of New Zealand. Our trip planner, Asko, spent several months working with us to plan an excellent itinerary that hit all of the things we wanted to experience in this amazing country, while giving us the flexibility to modify the activities and sights based on how much we felt like doing each day. We saw fjords with glaciers and snow capped mountains, waterfalls, hot springs and we hiked in forests. We stopped in all kinds of small towns and big cities. At every location we were able to experience something new, and the hotels and food were the best available, and often 5 star quality. There is a wonderful spirit in this country and we were able to meet and interact with many locals and fellow travelers. Thanks to Asko we have great memories of a special country. Thanks!
Hotel Reviews
Every detail was of the highest international standard. A treasure!
An unusual hotel. Serious money was spent on quality materials and furnishings. However our room in the back. was very dark and difficult to get to because the elevator didn’t go there, so we had to carry our luggage up a flight of stairs. It looked as if two older buildings were combined to make the hotel.
This hotel was the only disappointment. While the room was relatively big and clean and everything worked, the pink plastic walls and yellow plastic everywhere showed that it was cheaply furnished long ago and in serious need of updating to the standards we found everywhere else. At best, a place to sleep right next door to the bus tour pickup point for the spectacular Milford Sound. On the plus side, the attached buffet restaurant had a top quality buffet breakfast and dinner.
AMAZING HOTEL IN AN AMAZING PLACE!!!!
Great hotel in the middle of downtown action. Close to shopping and the ferries. Parking is not close.
Another nice hotel
High end classy hotel with heated pool, sauna steam room and nice restaraunt.
Nice hotel
Nice older hotel made of pine logs. Unique country feel. Friendly staff. Indoor heated pool. Attached restaurant looks like a fun party place during ski Eason.
Another great high end hotel near all the things you can walk to see.
Activity Reviews
WOW! A must see for anyone visiting the area.
Didn’t see any wild penguins, but the ones in the rehab facility were cute. Glad to support
So glad to support the preservation of Māori culture. That said, the presentation had 2 parts, the first was an excellent explanation of the culture prior to contact with western culture. The musical portion however, seemed to be a mix of western music and Luau style entertainment, which I thought was designed to present what might entertain rather than educate. The buffet was good, and the geyser was a natural wonder.
The ferry ride was nice. We enjoyed visiting the wineries and chatting with the people who work there. The scenery was beautiful.