My wife and I spent 17 days touring the South Island in January 2014.

The itinerary and guide/driver were arranged by Veronika at Aroha Tours. Our movement about the country was totally seamless. Our guide anticipated problems and mitigated them before they became an issue. He adjusted the pace of our day depending upon our interests particularly since we are serious amateur photographers and tended to linger waiting for the right photo opportunity. Every lodge that was chosen was outstanding with regard to the basic accommodation, friendliness of the owners and staff and the cuisine. In several instances the lodges were quite unique such as the Hapaku Treehouse Lodge, Bay of Many Coves and Westhaven Lodge. We could sense that as a client of Aroha we were afforded every attention possible to insure a great experience. Our guide was thoroughly knowledgeable of the history and culture of the Island as well as the nuances of New Zealand wine and food. We were overwhelmed by the activities which were planned for us such as swimming with seals in the Pacific, watching sperm whales and spelunking. I cannot image a more enjoyable luxury tour of this part of the world than the one offered to my wife and I by Aroha.

Reviewed almost 11 years ago and experienced in January 2014