How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Stefan was both an efficient and a caring Tour Leader- he really does enjoy his role.  He is very knowledgeable about local wild life and the forest walks we did with him were quite inspiring.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

" - Budget for some optional activities such as the helicopter flight to Fox Glacier    and the kayaking - fairly expensive but well worth it.

 - Take a few long-sleeved cotton shirts (I didn't) as protection against deceptively mild sunshine and West Coast sandflies.

 - If you are worried about 24 hours in a plane and you have enough time, cosider booking flights with stop-overs. "

Do you have anything else to add?

This holiday met - exceeded - my expectations. The standard of hotels/motels was high and this was compensation for early starts and long mini-bus rides.  And the smallish group (12) of like (i.e.Explore)-minded people was another bonus.

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Berndt is a German national but has lived in New Zealand for many years and is extremely knowledgeable about his adopted country. He made the tour exciting and the whole group responded well to his enthusiasm.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Come with an open mind and join in with everything you can.

Do you have anything else to add?

Despite the lack of knowledge exhibited by the reservations dept. the tour itself turned out to be the best Explore holiday that we have been on. I put this down to careful planning by the tour manager and enthusiastic leadership by the tour guide.

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

I agree that a good tour leader can make a great holiday into an outstanding one. Unortunately Explore has decided to run the New Zealand Explorer without a tour leader - what a shame.