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Franck Lemaitre

My name is Franck I am the founder of Once Upon a Trip and I am originally French. We had our honeymoon in NZ back to 2003, we felt in love with the country, then we decided to come back in 2009 to establish our business. In 2016 we became citizens of this country that we call home now. I plan tailor-made trips based on my clients' desires. I like to get to know my clients so I can plan for them the perfect vacation in one of the world's top destinations, New Zealand.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"I specialize in self-drive tours. I tend to work with smaller style accommodations such as bed & breakfasts, as well as boutique hotels and luxury lodges for a higher-end, more personal and authentic experience. It also gives my travelers the opportunity to discover the warmth of Kiwi hospitality! For activities, I specialize in many different ones including cycling (with the option of e-bikes), hiking, water-sports and everything involving outdoor adventures. I also specialize in and support wildlife activities, such as kiwi and native penguin spotting in their natural environment. I also like to offer scenic flights and cruises since they allow travelers to gain a deeper insight into our wonderful country."

How did you get involved in travel?

"As a child, my parents would always take my brother, my sister, and I on back-country adventures: hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, skiing, snowboarding... We didn't travel far, but as I grew older my desire to see the world grew as well. To the point where at age 24, I decided to travel from Normandy, France, to the Dogon country, Mali, in West Africa on... a 50cc moped! From then on, my life has been filled with adventures through Europe, the Caribbean, South-East Asia, North-America, and finally Australia and New Zealand where I decided to settle down. Today I still regularly travel from NZ to France, where I grew up, trying to stop in exotic places along the way. "

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"When I first visited NZ's South Island, I wanted to go for a hike to explore Wanaka's surrounding mountains. I was advised by a local to sleep in a remote hut near the Rob Roy Glacier, which I did. After a lovely walk along the beautiful Matukituki valley, the track suddenly became really steep, winding around sheer rock face and native forest. For about an hour or so, I literally climbed through this Lord of the Rings-like landscape, before reaching an alpine saddle, where the hut was. I spent the night alone in the hut, with only the presence of native kaka birds and summits around me, an amazing experience..."

Franck is part of the following groups: New Zealand Travel Agents, Fiji Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
Highlights of New Zealand - 10 Days
This action-packed itinerary dives into New Zealand's South and North Islands for a wide variety of landscapes and attractions. Kicking off in the adrenaline capital of the...
Best of New Zealand’s South Island - 10 Days
This 10-day road trip in the South Island combines the best New Zealand has to offer. Discover jaw-dropping scenery here, including Lake Tekapo and its turquoise waters, Mt....
Highlights of New Zealand: From North to South - 15 Days
Traverse New Zealand on this two-week adventure-packed trip, covering the highlights of North and South Island. Discover diverse landscapes, from world-class surfing beaches,...
Family itineraries
New Zealand: 'Middle Earth' Family Tour of the North Island - 10 Days
On this 10-day, family-friendly tour of the “Middle Earth” region of New Zealand, made famous by The Lord of the Rings (LOTR) trilogy, enjoy some of the best filming grounds,...
Family Fun on New Zealand's North Island: Wildlife, Culture & Hobbiton - 7 Days
The goal of a good family vacation is for everyone to have a great time. That's sure to happen on this week-long, self-drive adventure through the North Island of New Zealand....
North Island Active Family Road Trip: Auckland, Rotorua, Napier & Wellington - 10 Days
This 10-day itinerary is the perfect match for adventurous families looking to experience the great outdoors of New Zealand's North Island. Starting in Auckland, you'll drive...
Luxury itineraries
New Zealand's South Island: Luxury Self-Drive Tour - 15 Days
Experience the wilderness and wildlife of New Zealand's South Island on this 15-day self-drive itinerary. By day, you'll drive through breathtaking landscapes and embark on...
Road trip itineraries
Best of New Zealand’s South Island - 10 Days
This 10-day road trip in the South Island combines the best New Zealand has to offer. Discover jaw-dropping scenery here, including Lake Tekapo and its turquoise waters, Mt....
Highlights of New Zealand: From North to South - 15 Days
Traverse New Zealand on this two-week adventure-packed trip, covering the highlights of North and South Island. Discover diverse landscapes, from world-class surfing beaches,...
New Zealand Self-Drive Tour: South Island, Southern Alps & Wildlife - 7 Days
In one week, enjoy an action-packed road trip through New Zealand's South Island. Begin in Christchurch to do some sightseeing. Then, explore the culture, wildlife, and rock...

Recent trip reviews for Franck

New Zealand was AMAZING ! Trip plan d efinitely exceeded our expections!!!
New Zealand | Mar 18 - Mar 30, 2024

Jodi Lynn
Jodi Lynn G.
Saint Michael, MN | Reviewed on Apr 02, 2024
Thank you Franck, of KimKim/Once in a Lifetime. The trip you planned for us to New Zealand exceeded our expectations. We kept saying, “thank you Franck”!! We loved the process of planning. You came up with a first idea plan and listened to how we wanted to personalize it to fit our dreams. We liked all of the accommodations upgraded to water/view front and we asked for something unique. It was nice having a few days in Auckland at MSocial to check out the bay and whale/dolphins... Read more

Thank you Franck, of KimKim/Once in a Lifetime. The trip you planned for us to New Zealand exceeded our expectations. We kept saying, “thank you Franck”!! We loved the process of planning. You came up with a first idea plan and listened to how we wanted to personalize it to fit our dreams. We liked all of the accommodations upgraded to water/view front and we asked for something unique. It was nice having a few days in Auckland at MSocial to check out the bay and whale/dolphins excursion and acclimate to the 18 hour time difference. We loved the night time redwood tree walk and our morning stroll again in Rotorua. We had a breathtaking tour and wonderful chat with Jill Simpson, own of beautiful Akaroa Garden; then off to a fun and worthwhile dolphin cruise . Mount Cook Lakeside retreat on lake Pulaski was luxurious; great views, chef cooked meals and perfect location to explore the Mackenzie region. We had a private plane, The Grand Traverse to fly over the glacier and mountain areas of Mackenzie Aoraki National Park. Two of us made it to stargazing after a wonderful dinner in the dining hall, lead by lodge owner. Magnificent!!! Crazy, amazing place to stay (photos). We had an informative and fun backcountry tour as one of our adventures while there. We also got up close to an iceberg and glacier at Lake Tekapo, Next we drove to Clyde and stayed at a unique and authentic Oliver’s Lodge. The people are so welcoming there! Our favorite place was Milford Lodge staying at Cabot Lodge. Breidi met us with umbrella and she and husband Brad Alexander/owners made us feel so welcome. Such a luxuriously unique accommodations on the beautiful hills of their Lodge overlooking the Fiordland National Park and Lake Manapouri. Breathtakingly beautiful. Milford sound is a magical place. Jeff, of Trips and Tramps was our bus driver, part of our coach, cruise and walk tour. We snuck in a helicopter ride that he set up while we were there.

Thanks again Franck. It was a trip of a lifetime. You took care of every detail from pick up driver at every needed venue, rental car, and several amazing meals and awesome excursions. This was our second time using KimKim and you did not disappoint.

Hotel Reviews
Cabot Lodge
Manapouri

Cabot Lodge is a luxurious accommodation that is nestled in the hills overlooking Fiordland National Park overlooking Lake Manapouri. It is so warm and welcoming. The views are AMAZING. We loved the special attention we received from owners Breidi and Brad Alexander. The meals were chef cooked and delicious and had the best wine of the trip. We loved the gathering room overlooking the lake Manapouri and Doubtful Sound. We took a hike of their hill through hundreds of sheep. So incredible.

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful gardens frame this unique lodge. Very quaint with a few privately luxurious rooms. There are separate gathering rooms that worked out well to meet new people and play backgammon with our friends we traveled with. They also have a great library.
Location
On the sheep and red deer covered hills overlooking Lake Manapouri and mountains. Breathtaking!
Staff
So friendly and authentic. We were excited to get back and see them and eat their delicious feed. Lovely, hard working family.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Everything was SPOTLESS. Every detail was covered. We were met in the parking g lot, the was a hand-written note welcome us with homemade cookies everyday. Brad was always smiling and do good about answers g our many questions. Our rooms were spotlessly cleaned every day. They even sent us home with Breidi’s homemade soap. I really do how I can go back again some day.
Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat
Lake Pukaki

Amazing view on lake Pukuki. The accommodations were luxurious and spacious. Very comfortable

Authenticity & Character
The inside of the home was warm, inviting and very comfortable. We loved the wood fireplace every night. The bedrooms and bathrooms were huge. Each room had a magnificent view.
Location
We were kind of all by ourselves. Very private. We had our own outdoor sauna and wood hot tub overlooking the mountains and glacial lake.
Staff
We had a private chef made meal every morning and night brought to our cozy accommodation. Everyone was friendly.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Everything was immaculate. All new and we’ll take. Care of.
Olivers Lodge
Clyde

We loved this quaint hotel. It was very unique, unpretentious, and so original and authentic.

Authenticity & Character
Amazing character. We had breakfast together in an old kitchen with old dishes. I loved the tea cups. I felt like so was in my grandma’s home, only bigger.
Location
Staff
Staff was friendly and warm.
Cleanliness & Comfort
QT
Queenstown

This was not our favorite.

Authenticity & Character
Not our warm and cozy kind of hotel.
Location
Close to Queenstown and the airport. Not a very good view.
Staff
Seemed a little disorganized
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rooms were clean, but it was not comfortable. To modern and seemed cheaply put together. Bathroom was nice and clean
Local specialist: Franck Lemaitre
Franck
Franck Lemaitre
Local specialist in Auckland, New Zealand | Replied on Apr 04, 2024

Dear Jody,
Thank you for this very positive review, happy to read you had such a great time in NZ. Hope to see you soon back to NZ, otherwise enjoy other trips with Kimkim.

Read all New Zealand reviews

Memories of a Lifetime!
New Zealand | Mar 23 - Mar 30, 2024

A
Anna S.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Mar 31, 2024

Franck was able to plan the perfect vacation for us. We took the quiz and everything he recommended was spot on! We had plenty of down time to choose our own adventures along the way. When our flight to the South Island was delayed, Monika messaged us and gave us options. Everyone was so helpful and we made memories that will last a lifetime!!! I will definitely book through KimKim again!!!

Local specialist: Franck Lemaitre
Franck
Franck Lemaitre
Local specialist in Auckland, New Zealand | Replied on Apr 04, 2024

Dear Anna,

Thank you for your testimonial, it is good to read you loved your trip and that Monika was able to assist you while I was away. Keep booking your trips through Kimkim any local agents worldwide are true experts of their destination.
Kind regards
Franck

Read all New Zealand reviews

Fantastic Trip to North Island of Aotearoa (New Zealand)
New Zealand | Mar 1 - Mar 13, 2024

C
Cindy L.
Canada | Reviewed on Mar 20, 2024

Our 12-day trip to the North Island was fantastic and exceeded our expectations! Our trip was originally scheduled for Nov 2020 and because of Covid we had to defer. Franck helped re-plan the itinerary for March 2024. Highlights included a New Zealand food story tasting menu at Ahi in Auckland, the Wai Ariki Spa at Rotorua, Mt. Takawera crater walk, Waiotapu geothermal area, Tongariro National Park and Kapiti Island. The trip was perfectly customized to our preferences and everything worked very smoothly.

Local specialist: Franck Lemaitre
Franck
Franck Lemaitre
Local specialist in Auckland, New Zealand | Replied on Mar 21, 2024

Dear Cindy,
Indeed, you have finally made it 4 years later! Thank you for being that patient and for being flexible as some suppliers booked on your original trip are no longer operating.
Happy to read you had a great time.
Kind regards
Franck

Read all New Zealand reviews

Very Memorable Vacation
New Zealand | Feb 22 - Mar 4, 2024

J
John M.
Windsor, CA | Reviewed on Mar 07, 2024
Very Memorable Vacation It was my first time using kimkim and I wasn't sure how it would work out -- I mean the concept is great --they have a system where you state what you want to do and hook you up with a local expert who designs a trip, then you give them a lot of money and (hope!) it works out. you get a paper with your confirmation codes for the various things (car rentals, hotels, activities) but we never needed it. We just gave them our name and that was sufficient. The hotels... Read more

Very Memorable Vacation

It was my first time using kimkim and I wasn't sure how it would work out -- I mean the concept is great --they have a system where you state what you want to do and hook you up with a local expert who designs a trip, then you give them a lot of money and (hope!) it works out.

you get a paper with your confirmation codes for the various things (car rentals, hotels, activities) but we never needed it. We just gave them our name and that was sufficient. The hotels he picked were really amazing (honestly, I would never have found most of those on my own and some of them were really amazing) and most of the activities (hikes, biking, kayaks, etc.) were really fun.

We did have to make a few 'game time changes' while we were in New Zealand in terms of some activities but It was easy to work with the tour groups to make those changes (we moved some times around while there and upgraded to e-bikes for one of the rides), folks in NZ are generally pretty chill....

My biggest advice is to really look at your itinerary and the distances and timing. In our case we sometimes had activities that were either sort of far from the hotel (1- 1.5 hours away) and sort of early (9:00AM start) which made for some really early mornings (again, we were able to move most of them around while there).

Hotel Reviews
M Social
Auckland

really great location and a great way to start the trip

Azur Lodge
Queenstown

This was the most amazing place we stayed -- great service and amazing views!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ruapehu Country Lodge
Ruapehu

Bernie is a great host! He gives really personalized advice and was a lot of fun to talk with.

Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel
Rotorua

This one surprised me -- It was nicer than I expected and very comfortable -- a true boutique hotel

QT Wellington
Wellington

This was a nice hotel but kind of funky? weird death masks in the hall and what not (seriously) Great location though

Galaxy Boutique Hotel Tekapo
Lake Tekapo

This was fine -- it was clean enough and had a nice view of the Lake but was otherwise unremarkable.

Local specialist: Franck Lemaitre
Franck
Franck Lemaitre
Local specialist in Auckland, New Zealand | Replied on Mar 12, 2024

Dear John,
Thank you for this positive feedback, happy to read you overall enjoyed your trip to NZ. We included the highlights of both islands but do not hesitate to come back, there is more to be seen.
Well noted about Galaxy Hotel in Tekapo. Choices are very limited in this area, this hotel is the newest one, but you are right, it offers clean and nice lake views but nothing unremarkable.
Thank you for trusting our company as your travel planner.
Kind regards
Franck

Read all New Zealand reviews

New Zealand is Amazing!
New Zealand | Feb 12 - Feb 28, 2024

D
Diane B.
Canada | Reviewed on Mar 04, 2024
I would like to thank Franck for helping us plan a magical trip to New Zealand! Going to NZ is like going back in time. The country is beautiful and so clean, the people genuinely friendly and the food and wine delicious. We absolutely loved the places where we stayed and overall the tours we took were great. We travelled from Auckland to Queenstown and in each place had wonderful experiences. Highlights included: wine touring on Waiheke Island, nighttime kayaking to see glowworms and... Read more

I would like to thank Franck for helping us plan a magical trip to New Zealand! Going to NZ is like going back in time. The country is beautiful and so clean, the people genuinely friendly and the food and wine delicious. We absolutely loved the places where we stayed and overall the tours we took were great. We travelled from Auckland to Queenstown and in each place had wonderful experiences. Highlights included: wine touring on Waiheke Island, nighttime kayaking to see glowworms and exploring the Waimangu Volcanic Valley in Rotorua, boat tour to Apawapa blue pearl farm, whale watching in Kaikōura, staying in the remote and very private Scrubby Bay at Annadale, 2 different 4WD tours one with Micheal on “The Road to Mesopotamia and Christine on the Cass Valley Backcountry Tour, our fabulous stay at Azure in Queenstown and finally our private wine tour with Kate from BlackZNQ.
There were a couple of things that stopped me from giving this trip a 5 star. Franck, overall, did a wonderful job organizing the trip but we found his Travel Book somewhat confusing and sometimes lacking in detail. One situation in particular we ran into difficulty when flying from Rotoura to Blenheim. We did not have detailed flight information and when we showed up at airport we found our flight had been delayed and we were not on the flight we expected. If it wasn’t for the amazing Air New Zealand staff we would have lost a whole day of travel. As well, I was disappointed with our Marlborough wine tour. We were happy Franck had arranged a private guide but unfortunately the guide knew nothing about wine and the vineyards we visited for tastings gave little information about region or wines. I would recommend asking for an experienced guide with in-depth knowledge of wine and region and request to talk with the guide to plan the day. Luckily we had very knowledgeable guides for our other 2 wine tours but it still would have been helpful to discuss expectations before hand. We loved our trip to New Zealand and appreciated the service KimKim provides!

Hotel Reviews
Park Hyatt Auckland
1010

Location fantastic, rooms clean and beautiful with great amenities and breakfast fantastic!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel
Rotorua

The Black Swan was lovely, clean and comfortable. We enjoyed wine and cheese by the pool and the breakfast was good. We also enjoyed our dinner in the restaurant. We were disappointed the morning we had to leave early when we understood breakfast was served from 7 and no one was there. Overall, we enjoyed our stay and would recommend this hotel.

The Marlborough Boutique Hotel and Vineyard
Marlborough

We loved this hotel! The property is spectacular and staying there feels like you have gone back in time. We loved our room, it was spacious, beautifully decorated and filled with extra goodies, the delicious breakfasts we had each morning and the creative canapés and cocktails we had each evening were memorable. The heated pool area was a favourite place to drink wine, swim and enjoy the summer weather at the end of our busy days. All the staff were friendly and helpful but want to give a special thank you to Chris for her outstanding service. We can’t wait to return!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses
Kaikoura

It was a pleasure to stay in this unique hotel. Loved everything about it. Only wish our stay was longer

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Annandale
Pigeon Bay

Wow, this place is exceptional! From the personalized thrilling cliff hugging drive to the secluded private bay with Caroline leading the way, to the beautiful, fully stocked home with floor to ceiling windows across the front, to the gourmet meals provided daily by the chef, this place exceeded all our expectations. The food was abundant and delicious, the hot tub spa provided a fabulous place to star gaze and soak sore muscles after climbing the cliffs on both sides of the bay. We loved our stay at Scrubby Bay, Annadale and can’t wait to plan our next visit.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Vicarage Geraldine
Geraldine

We enjoyed staying at the Vicarage, Geraldine. We stayed here one night on route to Queenstown and found it clean and comfortable and located right in heart of Geraldine.

Azur Lodge
Queenstown

This place is amazing. The staff were so professional, friendly and helpful. We enjoyed the delicious breakfasts and canapés with cocktails and appreciated the shuttle to and from the Azure. Thanks for the great stay!

Authenticity & Character
The private villa had amazing views of the mountains, was beautifully decorated with natural woods and neutral luxurious fabrics and colours.
Location
This was a secluded enclave of a number of private villas outside of Queenstown.
Staff
Everyone was friendly and helpful. Special thanks to Linda for the excellent restaurant recommendations!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lakestone Lodge
Lake Pukaki

The Lakestone Lodge is a great place to stay if wanting to explore Mount Cook but not stay in the village. The lodge had great service and the staff were friendly and helpful. The lodge is situated at one end of Lake Pukaki and looks up towards Mount Cook. We arrived late in afternoon on a gloomy day. Following a delicious dinner the weather had cleared so we climbed up the hill behind lodge. The panoramic view was spectacular but Mount Cook remained hidden. After sleeping in a clean, comfortable but smaller sized room with a private outdoor sitting area we awoke to a spectacular view of Mount Cook. It was a perfect sunny day without a cloud in the sky and this view was memorable. I will never forget the stunning blue of the lake and the distant snow peaked Mount Cook. Thank you for a wonderful stay.

Activity Reviews
Ahi Restaurant - 4 snacks and 4 courses
Ahi Restaurant - 4 snacks and 4 courses
Auckland

The creative menu and variety of unique foods was memorable. We enjoyed meeting Christian one of the owners of restaurant and particularly appreciated when he realized one of our party was not eating much and brought her a lamb dinner which she loved! Thanks so much for the exciting journey through NZ foods.

Waiheke Wine tour exclusive
Waiheke Wine tour exclusive
New Zealand

We loved the island, our guide and learning about the wine produced on this paradise!

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Glowworm Paddle Board Tour
Glowworm Paddle Board Tour
Rotorua

Such a memorable experience. Imagine paddling along in a tandem kayak with your husband on a star lit warm night. Then imagine gliding into small caves with glowing worms on the sides and ceiling. Magical!

National Hatchery
National Hatchery
Rotorua

It was very educational to learn about the endangered kiwis and how NZ and volunteers are making a remarkable difference in their survival! Well done!

Whale Watch Kaikoura by boat
Whale Watch Kaikoura by boat
Kaikoura

The VIP Captain Cabin feature was well worth it! The spacious comfortable seating, the top level viewing deck and the friendly and knowledgeable staff made the experience of viewing the male sperm whales memorable!

Local specialist: Franck Lemaitre
Franck
Franck Lemaitre
Local specialist in Auckland, New Zealand | Replied on Mar 12, 2024
Dear Diane,
Thank you for taking some time posting this review which is always helpful to appreciate your level of satisfaction. I am pleased to read that you did have a great time in NZ and did appreciate a couple of special places such as Marlborough Lodge, Hapuku Lodge and Azur Lodge. Scrubby Bay at Annandale is a very unique and special place that I do love as well, should you come back, we know a couple of other similar gems.
One of our main projects for the coming season is to develop... Read more

Dear Diane,
Thank you for taking some time posting this review which is always helpful to appreciate your level of satisfaction. I am pleased to read that you did have a great time in NZ and did appreciate a couple of special places such as Marlborough Lodge, Hapuku Lodge and Azur Lodge. Scrubby Bay at Annandale is a very unique and special place that I do love as well, should you come back, we know a couple of other similar gems.
One of our main projects for the coming season is to develop a new roadbook which should be easier to read and more friendly to travel with.
As per the wine tour in Marlborough, I will go back to our partner to better understand why your guide was not knowledgeable about wine, we work with them on a regular basis getting very positive feedback.
Thank you for trusting our company, it has been a pleasure for me working on such a quality trip.
I wish you all the best.
Kind regards
Franck

My trip with the help and direction of Franck... A once in a life time trip GREAT
New Zealand | Dec 30 - Jan 10, 2024

A
Ann Marie K.
Canada | Reviewed on Jan 21, 2024
My trip with the help and direction of Franck was great. Unfortunately with the change in weather we were not able to do all the things that we paid for on the trip to the rain forest as some of the roads were flooded but a driver John did try his best to help out and took us as far as he was allowed. But all was great and we had a wonderful time.
Thanks again Franck and his team Read more

My trip with the help and direction of Franck was great. Unfortunately with the change in weather we were not able to do all the things that we paid for on the trip to the rain forest as some of the roads were flooded but a driver John did try his best to help out and took us as far as he was allowed. But all was great and we had a wonderful time.
Thanks again Franck and his team

Hotel Reviews
Regent of Rotorua
Rotorua
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ruapehu Country Lodge
Ruapehu

The people were great ,food was wonderful, the animals were cute especially the goats and Lama

Authenticity & Character
cute place felt like home
Location
A little out of the way from downtown but it is in the country area so still beautiful
Staff
the family was great
Cleanliness & Comfort
everything was clean and comfortable
Naumi Hotel Wellington
6141

The colours were wild, very modern, only problem they do not have enough parking for visitors that have a car. Other than that ok.

Authenticity & Character
The wild modern colours
Location
Location was great right in the middle of everything
Staff
They were helpful and considerate
Cleanliness & Comfort
It was clean and comfortable
Activity Reviews
Wine Tastings & Vineyard Visits on Waiheke Island
Wine Tastings & Vineyard Visits on Waiheke Island
Auckland
Quality of Experience
Food
Transport
Mt Tarawera Crater Walk Experience
Mt Tarawera Crater Walk Experience
Rotorua

Loved it very scary and exciting all at the same time

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The driver and staff Jessie and Ahn made it more fun than expected
Transport
Bumpy ride but well worth it.
Glowworm Paddle Board Tour
Glowworm Paddle Board Tour
Rotorua

It was fun

Quality of Experience
It was with friends
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Staff very great and helpful
Transport
The driver was cute
Kayak Taupo - Maori Rock Carvings
Kayak Taupo - Maori Rock Carvings
New Zealand

The day was perfect no rain and very interesting information

Quality of Experience
Fun
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The captain of the ship was funny had jokes to tell along the way
Transport
Tongariro Alpine Crossing guided
Tongariro Alpine Crossing guided
Tongariro National Park

Did not get to finish the trip had a small accident on the way up but although we only got to do 12 k it was worth it.

Quality of Experience
Did it with friends
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The driver and staff was great waited for us to come down and helped us back
Transport
Great
Local specialist: Franck Lemaitre
Read all New Zealand reviews

Franck and his team were excellent in their p...
New Zealand | Dec 30 - Jan 13, 2024

Jeff
Jeff P.
Parker, CO | Reviewed on Jan 16, 2024

Franck and his team were excellent in their plan for our vacation in New Zealand...he listened to what we wanted and set up the perfect itinerary...rooms that overlooked lakes and vistas that were amazing...the planned outings were superb...I would recommend this company to anyone if you want to see the real NZ

Local specialist: Franck Lemaitre
Franck
Franck Lemaitre
Local specialist in Auckland, New Zealand | Replied on Jan 17, 2024

Hi Jeff,
Thank you for your kind words. It has been interesting to reorganize your trip which was cancelled because of Covid knowing that your children were older and after other acivities. At the end of the day, it seems we managed together to tailor made the perfect journey.
Thank you
Franck

Read all New Zealand reviews

We had a wonderful time. The day trips were great...
New Zealand | Dec 30 - Jan 10, 2024

S
Sharon M.
Canada | Reviewed on Jan 15, 2024
We had a wonderful time. The trips were great. Everything worked well. We enjoyed all the hotels. thank you Franck for organizing. Read more

We had a wonderful time. The trips were great. Everything worked well. We enjoyed all the hotels. thank you Franck for organizing.

Hotel Reviews
Regent of Rotorua
Rotorua

great location, comfortable beds

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ruapehu Country Lodge
Ruapehu
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Naumi Hotel Wellington
6141

We loved the character and colours of the decor

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Franck Lemaitre
Franck
Franck Lemaitre
Local specialist in Auckland, New Zealand | Replied on Jan 15, 2024

Dear Sharon,
thank you for the opportunity, it was a pleasure organizing this trip in the North Island.
All the best
Franck

Read all New Zealand reviews

Three weeks in New Zealand
New Zealand | Dec 12 - Dec 31, 2023

L
Laura D.
Park City, UT | Reviewed on Jan 07, 2024

Franck planned a three week trip for us in New Zealand, and we left feeling like we did it all. The planning process was easy and done through the messaging platform. We felt confident showing up that all the details were taken care of from airport pick-ups to daily activities. While traveling we ran into a couple of issues like a cancelled flight, and Franck was quick to help us course correct. I would book again using Franck and Kimkim!

Local specialist: Franck Lemaitre
Franck
Franck Lemaitre
Local specialist in Auckland, New Zealand | Replied on Jan 15, 2024

Dear Laura,
Thank you for your kind words. Over three weeks, you had time to see the highlights of both islands, but you were also curious to try a wide variety of activities which makes this trip special and very enjoyable for me to organize.
Do not hesitate to use Kimkim in the future, they select great local agents worldwide.

All we had to do was have fun! Great trip!
New Zealand | Dec 16 - Dec 26, 2023

Kristen
Kristen M.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Jan 02, 2024
Fantastic trip. Thanks to Franc and Once Upon a Trip, everything was taken care of— all we had to do was enjoy the trip. All the accommodations were wonderful, activity operators safe and professional, and we had everything we needed in advance of the trip. Read more

Fantastic trip. Thanks to Franc and Once Upon a Trip, everything was taken care of— all we had to do was enjoy the trip. All the accommodations were wonderful, activity operators safe and professional, and we had everything we needed in advance of the trip.

Hotel Reviews
The Mayfair
Christchurch
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beaufort House Akaroa
Akaroa
Authenticity & Character
So very charming! Lovely gardens. Great location, delightful!
Location
Within walking distance of everything. Charming stay in a beautiful place!
Staff
Noel and Sharon were the best! Friendly, helpful, and created a fun, intimate atmosphere. Also, the food was amazing was no surprise when we found out they’d run a restaurant previously— so good!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Super clean and we had everything we needed.
Lakestone Lodge
Lake Pukaki

Spectacular and special. Very intimate experience in a beautiful place. Staff was amazing- so friendly and accommodating. The food was top notch — sophisticated and delicious. Highly recommend!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Franck Lemaitre
Franck
Franck Lemaitre
Local specialist in Auckland, New Zealand | Replied on Jan 15, 2024

Hi Kristen,
Happy to read you loved all these accommodations, I spent some time with Sharon and Noel at Beaufort House the last week, they are great hosts indeed.
Thank you for your kind words and for trusting us.
Franck