Stuff - When the West Coast is Bathed in Sunshine and Rainbows

Stuff - When the West Coast is Bathed in Sunshine and Rainbows

When the West Coast is bathed in sunshine and rainbows

'When you escape a sodden and flooded Canterbury for sunshine and rainbows on the West Coast you've got to feel your good fortune.

A tour of the South Island with Active Adventures got off to a soggy and late start after three solid days of rain which closed roads and inundated homes throughout the region.

I meet my two Australian tour buddies and guides for a last minute coffee at Truffle Cafe, Merivale. Our group is depleted after two tourists from Melbourne had their adventure cancelled after a Covid-19 outbreak.'

Read the full story by Cate Broughton here.

Hear from our Happy Guests
4.85/5 Rating | 6,500+ Reviews

What people say about our trips

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Ultimate North Island Adventure

Ronald H

"We booked this excursion wanting to see and hike this extraordinary country which it did. However the range of activities we engaged in, snorkelling, mountain biking, Sandboarding, tube rafting added an exciting dimension and perspective by actually experiencing what NZ has to offer. Accommodations were excellent and above expectation; snacks, and sunscreen always available. Definitely recommend!

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We booked this excursion wanting to see and hike this extraordinary country which it did.…

"We booked this excursion wanting to see and hike this extraordinary country which it did. However the range of activities we engaged in, snorkelling, mountain biking, Sandboarding, tube rafting added an exciting dimension and perspective by actually experiencing what NZ has to offer. Accommodations were excellent and above expectation; snacks, and sunscreen always available. Definitely recommend! read less

4.7 Stars (336 reviews)

R | October 7200

Great Walks of New Zealand

Margaret M

"Liana & Kelly were fabulous guides & I loved every minute of my trip. The accommodation, food & walks were all great.

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Liana & Kelly were fabulous guides & I loved every minute of my trip. The…

"Liana & Kelly were fabulous guides & I loved every minute of my trip. The accommodation, food & walks were all great. read less

4.7 Stars (128 reviews)

M | January 1970

New Zealand Walking Adventure

Don K

"This trip provided a variety of hikes through beautiful rain forests, beaches and mountains. We were always given a choice between an easier hike and a more strenuous hike. I would highly recommend the Heli-Hike on Franz Josef glacier. It was a unique and very memorable experience. Mel and Kayla were excellent guides for this trip. Most of the meals were prepared and cooked by Mel and Kayla and they provided a variety of delicious meals. They also made accommodations for those with dietary restrictions. Mel provided a sarcastic wit and was very knowledgeable with answering questions. She was also an amazing driver through some very windy roads with a bus and attached trailer to navigate. Mel and Kayla provided a fun, safe, delicious and adventurous trip. I highly recommend this trip for anyone looking to hike, kayak and wine taste in an absolutely beautiful country.

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This trip provided a variety of hikes through beautiful rain forests, beaches and mountains. We…

"This trip provided a variety of hikes through beautiful rain forests, beaches and mountains. We were always given a choice between an easier hike and a more strenuous hike. I would highly recommend the Heli-Hike on Franz Josef glacier. It was a unique and very memorable experience. Mel and Kayla were excellent guides for this trip. Most of the meals were prepared and cooked by Mel and Kayla and they provided a variety of delicious meals. They also made accommodations for those with dietary restrictions. Mel provided a sarcastic wit and was very knowledgeable with answering questions. She was also an amazing driver through some very windy roads with a bus and attached trailer to navigate. Mel and Kayla provided a fun, safe, delicious and adventurous trip. I highly recommend this trip for anyone looking to hike, kayak and wine taste in an absolutely beautiful country. read less

4.8 Stars (387 reviews)

D | January 1970

Ultimate North Island Adventure

Jennie C

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

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Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.7 Stars (336 reviews)

J | January 1970

Ultimate North Island Adventure

Keith S

"My ultimate north island trip was outstanding. The trip was extensive, well thought through and as promised 'Active'. A good trip was made exceptional by the contribution of our guides Luke and Noah. Thier knowledge, insight, attention to detail and helpfulness could not have been better.

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My ultimate north island trip was outstanding. The trip was extensive, well thought through and…

"My ultimate north island trip was outstanding. The trip was extensive, well thought through and as promised 'Active'. A good trip was made exceptional by the contribution of our guides Luke and Noah. Thier knowledge, insight, attention to detail and helpfulness could not have been better. read less

4.7 Stars (336 reviews)

K | January 1970

Ultimate South Island Adventure

Gurameen C

"Certainly! Here's a revised version:

Greg and Kim are an exceptional team, and our experience with them was truly memorable. Kim's culinary skills created an array of delightful dishes that had us savoring every bite. From appetizers to main courses, each plate was a testament to her culinary expertise, leaving a lasting impression.

On the other hand, Greg's knowledge of New Zealand and its diverse birdlife brought a unique and engaging element to our stay. His passion for the subject was evident in the captivating stories he shared, turning casual conversations into fascinating insights about the country's avian wonders.

What made this duo stand out was their seamless collaboration. Kim's dishes perfectly complemented the natural beauty of New Zealand that Greg so passionately described. The combination of exquisite cuisine and enriching discussions created an immersive experience that exceeded our expectations.

Greg and Kim's genuine warmth and expertise made our stay not just a vacation but an exploration of taste and nature. Whether through a mouthwatering meal crafted by Kim or an intriguing bird-related anecdote shared by Greg, their unique blend of talents turned our time into a delightful, well-rounded experience.

read more

Certainly! Here's a revised version:

Greg and Kim are an exceptional team, and our experience with…

"Certainly! Here's a revised version:

Greg and Kim are an exceptional team, and our experience with them was truly memorable. Kim's culinary skills created an array of delightful dishes that had us savoring every bite. From appetizers to main courses, each plate was a testament to her culinary expertise, leaving a lasting impression.

On the other hand, Greg's knowledge of New Zealand and its diverse birdlife brought a unique and engaging element to our stay. His passion for the subject was evident in the captivating stories he shared, turning casual conversations into fascinating insights about the country's avian wonders.

What made this duo stand out was their seamless collaboration. Kim's dishes perfectly complemented the natural beauty of New Zealand that Greg so passionately described. The combination of exquisite cuisine and enriching discussions created an immersive experience that exceeded our expectations.

Greg and Kim's genuine warmth and expertise made our stay not just a vacation but an exploration of taste and nature. Whether through a mouthwatering meal crafted by Kim or an intriguing bird-related anecdote shared by Greg, their unique blend of talents turned our time into a delightful, well-rounded experience. read less

4.7 Stars (4482 reviews)

G | January 1970

Classic South Island Adventure

Jennifer K

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

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Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.7 Stars (1725 reviews)

J | January 1970

Ultimate South Island Adventure

Donald H

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

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Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.7 Stars (4482 reviews)

D | January 1970

Classic South Island Adventure

Andrea L

"This trip was outstanding! I cannot think of a single thing that could have been better. I loved our guides. They were delightful and showed personal care for each one of us. They made every single moment of the trip fun.
Unfortunately I injured my ankle early on and the guides were able to accommodate me and help me continue safely with the activities.

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This trip was outstanding! I cannot think of a single thing that could have been…

"This trip was outstanding! I cannot think of a single thing that could have been better. I loved our guides. They were delightful and showed personal care for each one of us. They made every single moment of the trip fun.
Unfortunately I injured my ankle early on and the guides were able to accommodate me and help me continue safely with the activities. read less

4.7 Stars (1725 reviews)

A | January 1970

Patagonia Hiking Adventure

Robert P

"Our trip with Active Adventures was outstanding. Our guide was amazing and the views were stunning

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Our trip with Active Adventures was outstanding. Our guide was amazing and the views were…

"Our trip with Active Adventures was outstanding. Our guide was amazing and the views were stunning read less

4.7 Stars (1139 reviews)

R | October 9600

Ultimate North Island Adventure

Wendy W

"I'm not usually a "tour" type of traveler. I joined the North Island Adventure trip because I was traveling solo through NZ and thought Active Adventures would help get me to places I couldn't get myself. Over the ten days, there was not a moment I questioned my choice. Our guides -- Katie and Branden -- were all about generosity of spirit, pride, and knowledge about the country they lovingly call home. Every activity, accommodation, and meal was seamlessly organized and full of joy -- and in some cases mischievous surprises. There was even laughter on the long bus rides. What I really appreciated the most about the trip was the flexibility and thoughtfulness. I never felt like the "extra" as a single traveler and I, or any other of my fellow trip mates, wanted to change up our day or try something different, the answer was always "yes". Should you join an Active Adventure trip? My answer will always be "yes"!

read more

I'm not usually a "tour" type of traveler. I joined the North Island Adventure trip…

"I'm not usually a "tour" type of traveler. I joined the North Island Adventure trip because I was traveling solo through NZ and thought Active Adventures would help get me to places I couldn't get myself. Over the ten days, there was not a moment I questioned my choice. Our guides -- Katie and Branden -- were all about generosity of spirit, pride, and knowledge about the country they lovingly call home. Every activity, accommodation, and meal was seamlessly organized and full of joy -- and in some cases mischievous surprises. There was even laughter on the long bus rides. What I really appreciated the most about the trip was the flexibility and thoughtfulness. I never felt like the "extra" as a single traveler and I, or any other of my fellow trip mates, wanted to change up our day or try something different, the answer was always "yes". Should you join an Active Adventure trip? My answer will always be "yes"! read less

4.7 Stars (336 reviews)

W | January 1970

Ultimate North Island Adventure

Barbara F

"I've been impressed with the customer service at Active Adventures from the very beginning- from the basics of setting up a trip to the crazy
tour shifting in March 2020 to changing our 2023 trip to 2024. And our just completed Ultimate North Island Adventure continued to surpass all
that. Our guides, Braden and Katie, were exceptional in every way, going the extra mile to make our trip special and accommodating the varying abilities and desires of the group. There was always a good alternative if you weren't up to the main activity, and their "home town" knowledge added a special personal touch to the tour. They looked out for me and my bum knee, always making sure that things were OK, and finding ways of making it work. And I won't even start on the wonderful food- absolutely amazing, especially the guide prepared spreads with all the NZ specialties! The highest kudos and deepest thanks for their tireless efforts.

read more

I've been impressed with the customer service at Active Adventures from the very beginning- …

"I've been impressed with the customer service at Active Adventures from the very beginning- from the basics of setting up a trip to the crazy
tour shifting in March 2020 to changing our 2023 trip to 2024. And our just completed Ultimate North Island Adventure continued to surpass all
that. Our guides, Braden and Katie, were exceptional in every way, going the extra mile to make our trip special and accommodating the varying abilities and desires of the group. There was always a good alternative if you weren't up to the main activity, and their "home town" knowledge added a special personal touch to the tour. They looked out for me and my bum knee, always making sure that things were OK, and finding ways of making it work. And I won't even start on the wonderful food- absolutely amazing, especially the guide prepared spreads with all the NZ specialties! The highest kudos and deepest thanks for their tireless efforts. read less

4.7 Stars (336 reviews)

B | January 1970

Classic South Island Adventure

Julie K

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

read more

Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.7 Stars (1725 reviews)

J | January 1970

Classic South Island Adventure

Tim B

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

read more

Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.7 Stars (1725 reviews)

T | January 1970

Patagonia Hiking Adventure

David W

"From the first moment, we felt in good hands. We were fortunate with other group members being friendly as well. We had agonised over challenging vs comfort and we’re so glad we chose challenging for the immersion. Yes we had to share but our group was with us. Bonus. It was bonding

read more

From the first moment, we felt in good hands. We were fortunate with other group…

"From the first moment, we felt in good hands. We were fortunate with other group members being friendly as well. We had agonised over challenging vs comfort and we’re so glad we chose challenging for the immersion. Yes we had to share but our group was with us. Bonus. It was bonding read less

4.7 Stars (1139 reviews)

D | January 1970

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