We take regular stops on the trail to refuel | Lachlan Gardiner
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Kiwi Hospitality: At the heart of Adventure South NZ
For a little country, New Zealand has big personality. This is because there’s a lot that goes into the make-up of our unique and much-celebrated Kiwi culture. New Zealanders are kind-hearted, like to joke and smile, and welcome opportunities to meet new people.
We live and work by a set of Kiwi values, approaching everything we do with genuine enthusiasm. A friendly, warm, welcoming and down-to-earth bunch who place great importance on hospitality, generosity, kindness and support.
So what kind of hospitality can you expect on an Adventure South NZ trip?
A welcoming environment
Over the years, Kiwi's have mastered the art of laid-back professionalism. 'No worries' and 'sweet as' are just some of the phrases you'll here us throw around, yet you will always know you are in safe hands when you are around us.
Our idea of welcoming hospitality is an inviting smile,
A cup of tea and a good picnic spread is never far around the corner and we'll go out of our way to make sure you have the best quality experience. - yes that means there will always be a table-cloth on the picnic table, even miles from civilisation!
With the kind and gentle spirit, somewhat deriving from the flightless-bird we are named after.
Stocking up on snacks for the ride ahead | Lachlan Gardiner
From our bike mechanic Abram, to our team at HQ and the guides out on the road, we all have an integral understanding of what outstanding hospitality involves.
From the moment you get in touch, you’ll be greeted by the cheerful cycle touring fanatic Sandra with years of travel experience and passion for the outdoors. She'll help you organise your perfect active holiday from our exciting range of itineraries or create a custom trip for you and a group of friends. After you've booked, she'll keep in touch until your trip departs, providing all the necessary departure information, gear lists and answer any questions you may have.
Once in New Zealand, our guides will be the first to greet you. All of our guides share the same values and respect for NZ's environment, with their extensive experience, knowledge, and abundant energy, they are fundamental to the success of every trip we undertake.
You'll notice our guides are very flexible out on tour, with the ability to change an itinerary to suit weather conditions or fitness levels.
Our teams efforts have been reflected with our Qualmark Gold award.
Local Food and Accommodation
Food and hospitality have always been at the heart of the Māori way of life, bringing people together. Whether it’s a picnic on the beach, a hāngi at school or a barbecue with neighbours, you’ll find food and friendship go hand-in-hand in New Zealand. Loosely translated as hospitality, Manaakitanga plays a key role in Māori society and inspires the New Zealand visitor experience.
It is this spirit of Manaakitanga that makes a New Zealand holiday unique.
Kiwi’s laid back approach to life also generally translates to our food. Long hot Summers encourage leisurely cooking and eating outdoors, making the most of fresh fish, shellfish and meat. The way we enjoy our food is a distinctive aspect of the Kiwi foodie culture.
New Zealand is a land of wide open spaces, where the elements come alive. With over 14,000 kilometres of coastline, there’s year round access to some of the best seafood in the world. Fierce appreciation of the land inspires us, and provides many opportunities for cycling and hiking.
Tim and Jan from Stationside Cafe | Lachlan Gardiner
Louise makes some pretty important relationships with our accommodation providers and we're always searching for local accommodation
What advice do you have for people choosing a guided walk?
Research thoroughly, and then choose an activity level that is realistic to train and prepare for. Look at the weather patterns for the region / season you’re interested in. Read reviews, ask questions and invest in a good rain jacket. There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear. "There's no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear"
What are your top tips for people preparing for a multi-day walk?
Training is the best way to get the most out of your guided walk. You might get by with a low level of fitness, but you won't enjoy the experience as much as those who’ve trained beforehand. Don’t let bad weather deter you from training, as it’s the best training. We don't get spectacular blue sky landscapes everyday. There's always a chance we'll endure adverse elements. Embrace the rainy and windy days once in awhile in your training routine. You might even begin to enjoy it.