Jill Fischer
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North Island ▷ Manawatu - Wanganui ▷ Palmerston North ▷
Himatangi Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park
We had a wonderful visit with Margaret who could have not been more helpful and welcoming The camp was tidy, clean and efficient and right down the street from the beach, where we watched the sun set.
It was quiet and isolated and the perfect last night camping in NZ. The facilities were first rate. Thank you so much!
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South Island ▷ Coastal Otago ▷ Dunedin ▷
Cadbury World
Unfortunately, probably our least favorite activity in our 3 1/2 weeks in NZ.
Over priced entry and products for sale but did like the bag of goodies. We were most impressed (and not in a good way!) by the rather snide and cynical way our guide spoke of her company and product!
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South Island ▷ Fiordland ▷ Milford Sound - Fiordland National Park ▷
Milford Sound Day Cruises
Well organized, well done tour of Milford Sound.
We selected the nature cruise and drove in to the harbor ourselves. The road in is in itself a great journey and Milford Sound is exquisite. The commentary was very good if at times a little hard to hear. A beautiful day and very nicely done given that it could have been excessively touristy. We enjoyed it and recommend it.
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South Island ▷ Fiordland ▷ Te Anau ▷
Te Anau TOP 10 Holiday Park
Great location, wonderful facilities, friendly staff..
totally enjoyed our 2 nights here. Don't miss the nearby pie shop... Yumm! Thank you everyone!
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North Island ▷ Wellington Region ▷ Wellington ▷
Wellington Waterfront Motorhome Park
We were initially mystified at the concept of a camper park downtown Wellington on the wharf...
but, it WORKED! It was secure and quiet and the coded bathrooms and showers were clean. The helpful staff gave us a map and allowed us a spot to part until our noon ferry check in. NZ rocks!!! Thank you for helping make our experience phenomenal
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South Island ▷ Coastal Otago ▷ Dunedin ▷
Dunedin isite Visitor Information Centre
We stopped in at this site, near the end of a long day, dreary weather, and needing to nail down the reservations for our dash back to the ferry.
How I wish I could credit the specific person but I would like to say that the patient, kind woman was infinitely patient in making FIVE reservations for us. It was busy and there was a line but we at no time were made to feel that we must hurry or were being a nuisance. We did try to hurry since others were waiting but do appreciate the patience and courtesy shown to us and we did get our much needed reservations! Thank you!!!!
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South Island ▷ Coastal Otago ▷ Dunedin ▷
The OPERA
Lots of information provided and extensive network of blinds and tunnels allows for viewing wild penguins without disturbing them.
I appreciate the work they are doing with habitat restoration and in the hospital raising the many chicks orphaned this year. Happy to support these efforts with some good words and the admission paid.
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South Island ▷ Coastal Otago ▷ Dunedin ▷
Natures Wonders
This is a fun/eco/tourist/wildlife tour all rolled into one!
The Argo was great fun and quite the experience! Our guide was very knowledgeable and persistent in spotting the yellow eyed penguin for us (bring binoculars if you can). It was interesting to watch as the sea lion and the penguin spotted each other on the beach!!! We also saw NZ fur seals inadvertently very up close! We were pleased to support the conservation efforts being made to keep this area wild while allowing us a look at the wildlife. We would recommend this tour for anyone, especially families... kids would love this! (Note... Argo ride is rough for those with physical limitations)
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South Island ▷ Kaikoura Region ▷ Kaikoura ▷
Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura
Our Dolphin Encounter with the delightful Dusky Dolphins was our favorite experience during our 3 1/2 week visit to NZ...
magical! The gear kept us comfortable in the water and we had ample opportunity to interact with the dolphins. The tour was well organized start to finish and respect for the dolphins and environment was evident and of utmost importance to us as well. We also got to see the spout and tail of a sperm whale from a distance. A great day!
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North Island ▷ Rotorua Region ▷ Rotorua ▷
Te Pā Tū Maori Cultural Experience
We carefully deliberated about which cultural experience to attend and chose Tamaki for its peaceful location in the forest south of Rotorua.
We had a wonderful bus trip from town to the Village where were were educated with humor by our driver with about the traditions and we were formed into a tribe under "Chief Bob". It was an honor to observe/participate in the welcoming ceremony and to be educated as to what was to be our culturally appropriate response. We were escorted through the village and respectfully given the opportunity to "volunteer" to participate in a variety of activities. It was a lot of fun to learn games and skills designed to teach and refine skills essential for the tribes to function and succeed. We also learned much about the native arts of things such as carving and tatooing. Teaching the men the art of the Haka was a highlight! It was interesting to see the earthen ovens and to see the food removed from the earth. It was a privilege to have the members of this family share with us the traditions of their music and movement followed by a delicious meal. It was an enjoyable and entertaining evening. Any experience that touches and moves you and changes you in some way is a good thing! Thank you Tamaki Maori Village for warmly welcoming us and for sharing your ways. We hope to return one day.
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North Island ▷ Coromandel ▷ Hahei ▷
Hot Water Beach
Our evening at Hot Water Beach was one of the highlights of our 3 1/2 weeks in New Zealand!
It is easy to find and reach and the hot water at low tide is hot enough to burn so careful! We gathered with a large group of people from all over the world. Digging the pools turned into a fun international project. It really was a completely unique experience with the nice reward of a relaxing hot soak at the end. Bring a shovel and bucket to add cold water if you need it. And it is FREE!
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North Island ▷ Wellington Region ▷ Wellington ▷
Museum of New Zealand
Spectacular Museum.
Wish we could have spent all day here. Took the tour and this helped us make the most of our time here.
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North Island ▷ Rotorua Region ▷ Reporoa ▷
Orakei Korako Geyserland Resort
This is off the beaten path...
a plus for us and a quiet serenity about it. It was well organized with a ferry and nice paths and boardwalks that were clearly labeled. We had some interesting discussions with the proprietors about the history of the park and how things have changed over the years. It is Native New Zealander owned and run and the resentment about the manner in which decisions were made by the NZ government in 1961 to flood 2/3 of the volcanic valley for a hydro power reservoir is still very fresh, as reported by the folks we spoke with. It was interesting and we were happy to support a Native run natural asset. We do hope that attention will be focused on preserving the remaining natural wonders!
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North Island ▷ Auckland Region ▷ Auckland ▷
New Zealand Frontiers
After an exhaustive exploration of NZ campervan companies and numerous communications with Kenrick Mitchell, we decided to do a 24 day rental with New Zealand Frontiers.
Though confident in our decision, the outcome of our NZ experience far exceeded our hopes and dreams! Kenrick's company is exactly as described and his attention to every detail and professionalism was evident throughout our experience. He has been forthright and fun to deal with and communications have always been prompt and thorough. The campervan was immaculate, perfectly equipped for two people, performed excellently and was very comfortable for traveling, driving and sleeping. Notable is that this van came equipped with items that most other companies charge extra for per day. The Kruse and Navman systems were very helpful and enjoyable, as were the other resources and maps that were included. Kenrick picked us up on a Sunday AM from our downtown Auckland hotel. He took us on a beautiful tour of the city and up Mt. Eden. We received a complete introduction to the van and driving guidance until we were reasonably comfortable with the vehicle and driving on the left. We had a fantastic 4783 km of NZ adventures, all the while knowing that Kenrick was available should we need assistance or have a question. This kind of personal attention is rare and to be appreciated! We would highly recommend New Zealand Frontiers to anyone wanting a first rate opportunity to see NZ up close and personal. Many thanks to Kenrick Mitchell!