Mel climbed a mountain with me. Wonderful. ...

New Zealand | Jan 12 - Jan 19, 2026

The Rees Hotel was exceptional. It's one of the nicest hotels I've ever stayed in, with an unbeatable view and surprisingly spacious rooms. The quality and comfort made it a perfect stay.

The Distinction Luxmore Hotel was decent considering it's situated in a small town. The location was ideal for walking around, and it met our expectations for that kind of setting.

Staying at the Monte Christo Winery was both elegant and fun. We thoroughly enjoyed the ambiance that the winery offered, adding to the pleasure of our overall trip.

The Heli Hike on the Kepler Track was unfortunately canceled due to weather conditions. They informed us very close to pick-up time, but I appreciated the understanding and professionalism. They provided three alternative options, and I chose a different track which turned out to be a beautiful hike. It was a long enough trek surrounded by scenic landscapes—gorgeous rivers, rapids, waterfalls, and towering trees, along with informative details about nature. It was a fulfilling and enjoyable day despite the initial disappointment.

The wine tasting around Queenstown was delightful and quite fun. Although we found ourselves in the Pinot Noir region, which meant fewer Sauvignon Blanc options, the experience still came with its own charm and surprise. The group was engaging, adding an extra element of fun to the tasting. In the end, we enjoyed the experience and the story we could tell friends back home.