Unique things to do in New Zealand

Departing from the Russell Wharf at 10am, we will sail out to one of the 144 islands that are only accessible by boat. On the way there we will do our best to spot our local wildlife; dolphins, penguins, sharks and our wonderful array of seabirds. Once on the island, we will spend an hour or two beach combing, hiking, kayaking, snorkelling or simply lounging in the sun! Since the Islands are bird conservation sites we will hopefully even spot a few native rare birds! After having a fresh lunch on board, we will then sail back to the Russell wharf to arrive around 330pm. Other things to note We need you to be at the Russell wharf at 9:45am for the safety briefing. Departure is at 10am, please don't be late. Like the saying "the ship has sailed", it will!

We leave from Russell at 10am and set sail for a cruise through the Bay of Islands. During the sailing, we will share the history of the bays and our guests can participate in the sailing or just relax and enjoy the views. At our anchorage, you can go ashore for a walk, swim, snorkel or relax on board while a fresh lunch is prepared in the galley. Lunch is served on the boat and is always punctuated by lively conversation. We sail back to Russell to arrive at the wharf at about 3:30pm. Other things to note We have your safety and comfort as our first consideration. It is important that you make phone or email contact before the trip so we can make sure you have the latest information as far as weather goes. We have a toilet and refrigeration on board. No sailing or boating experience necessary.

You will be picked up by a comfortable modern vehicle. We will travel in a small group for 25 minutes to the location . Once kitted up with headlights and red night torches we will begin a 2 km walk through the darkness of a native New Zealand forest. Along the way we will encounter towering trees and cascading waterfalls, giant silver ferns lighting up like fire works . The highlight would have to be the glowworms as breath taking as our clearest night sky. You will be able to get up close and fully understand this amazing creature. No two nights are ever the same. Wallabies and possums patrol the area, Weta and other insects can be encountered. Other things to note we operate in most weather conditions except high winds and severe rain

Your experience at Five Gates Farm gives you the opportunity to relax and unwind in a beautiful coastal setting with stunning views of Mount Arthur and the Kahurangi mountain range. You will learn how we manage our 6 acre small holding to grow sustainable produce, our cut flower garden and care for our animals. Learn the history of our 1890's homestead and how the land has been farmed for generations since the early pioneering days in Aotearoa. Get up close and personal to hand-feed our herd of alpacas in their paddocks, spending time to get to know these amazing animals and learn all about their history, habits and how each of them have their own unique and quirky personalities. On arrival you'll be welcomed by Julie and Paul your hosts and owners of Five Gates Farm, have a safety briefing, then meet the herd. There's some great photo opportunities with stunning views in the background. A tour of the farm will include meeting all the animals at the farm and playing with our three beagles Oscar, Henry and Sam. The experience ends with a soft drink and delicious home-baking from the farm kitchen.

Step aboard our classic white eco friendly sailing boat. No noise, no nasty diesel fumes. Our skipper will help make your trip memorable aboard the vessel that has proudly entertained visitors to the region since 1982. After a safety briefing we leave the marina at the beginning of the mighty Waikato River and work our way along the bays of Lake Taupo with an informative and interesting short history of the area, it’s volcanic nature and cultural history. Either sit back and relax on our comfortable seating or have a turn at the wheel. Refreshments like tea coffee or milo ( a kiwi favourite) are available on the trip. Grab a drink and get to know the people around you. As we sail you will enjoy the majestic view of our volcanic mountains, Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. In the Winter they are snowcapped like ice cream cones. Sail Barbary takes you right up close to the face of Ngatoroirangi, for the perfect photo of the 14-metre high rock art, only accessible by water. The skipper will tell you the story of its carving. In the summer we stop for swimming. We are a truly unique and authentic experience. the only sustainable sailing company on the lake.

Departing from the Russell Wharf at 10am, we will sail out to one of the 144 islands that are only accessible by boat. On the way there we will do our best to spot our local wildlife; dolphins, penguins, sharks and our wonderful array of seabirds. Once on the island, we will spend an hour or two beach combing, hiking, kayaking, snorkelling or simply lounging in the sun! Since the Islands are bird conservation sites we will hopefully even spot a few native rare birds! After having a fresh lunch on board, we will then sail back to the Russell wharf to arrive around 330pm. Other things to note We need you to be at the Russell wharf at 9:45am for the safety briefing. Departure is at 10am, please don't be late. Like the saying "the ship has sailed", it will!

The aim of this adventure is to promote health and wellbeing through a fun experience exploring nature. We start the day at our meeting place cafe where we will play some icebreaker games to get to know each other. Then we enjoy scenic transport in our Mercedes tour bus travelling through the Waitakere ranges to Piha, stopping at a lookout along the way. Snacks and warm up stretches on arrival at South Piha. This adventure consists of four very different walks in different areas of Piha ranging from 20 minutes to 1.5 hours to really get you familiar with the best spots you'd miss otherwise. Explore the many lookouts, caves, cliffs tunnels, native forest, rivers, hidden tracks, and waterfalls over the 7 hours. Listen to the Tui's and watch the colourful Rosellas in the forest, then discover Little Blue Penguins deep in the caves. If we are lucky we will spot a Seal or Sea Lion! Professionally guided by your passionate, qualified and safety conscious tour guide. This is the only way to get the most out of your visit to the wild Piha beach! Full transport between all locations, Healthy snacks, fresh fruit and cold water are included. Up to 10km total walking split up throughout the day. Some of which is Barefoot optional. The black sand can be hot during summer! Bring beach shoes if you have them. Post tour drop off at the meeting place and into the central city.

We leave from Russell at 10am and set sail for a cruise through the Bay of Islands. During the sailing, we will share the history of the bays and our guests can participate in the sailing or just relax and enjoy the views. At our anchorage, you can go ashore for a walk, swim, snorkel or relax on board while a fresh lunch is prepared in the galley. Lunch is served on the boat and is always punctuated by lively conversation. We sail back to Russell to arrive at the wharf at about 3:30pm. Other things to note We have your safety and comfort as our first consideration. It is important that you make phone or email contact before the trip so we can make sure you have the latest information as far as weather goes. We have a toilet and refrigeration on board. No sailing or boating experience necessary.

You will be picked up by a comfortable modern vehicle. We will travel in a small group for 25 minutes to the location . Once kitted up with headlights and red night torches we will begin a 2 km walk through the darkness of a native New Zealand forest. Along the way we will encounter towering trees and cascading waterfalls, giant silver ferns lighting up like fire works . The highlight would have to be the glowworms as breath taking as our clearest night sky. You will be able to get up close and fully understand this amazing creature. No two nights are ever the same. Wallabies and possums patrol the area, Weta and other insects can be encountered. Other things to note we operate in most weather conditions except high winds and severe rain

Each tour explores a wide variety of locations that Wellington has to offer, small adjustments may be made to suit the particular interests of each group or individual. Tours take approximately 3 hours Each tour will begin at the Wellington train station then onto the government precinct, older residential areas, the botanical gardens which will explore exotic and native bush as well as panoramic views, then the cafe and entertainment scene, the waterfront, some archeological sites, and finally Wellington’s main shopping street, 'The Golden Mile’. Though this may sound like a lot to fit in, Wellington is a uniquely compact city. The only way to experience it is by foot.

Your experience at Five Gates Farm gives you the opportunity to relax and unwind in a beautiful coastal setting with stunning views of Mount Arthur and the Kahurangi mountain range. You will learn how we manage our 6 acre small holding to grow sustainable produce, our cut flower garden and care for our animals. Learn the history of our 1890's homestead and how the land has been farmed for generations since the early pioneering days in Aotearoa. Get up close and personal to hand-feed our herd of alpacas in their paddocks, spending time to get to know these amazing animals and learn all about their history, habits and how each of them have their own unique and quirky personalities. On arrival you'll be welcomed by Julie and Paul your hosts and owners of Five Gates Farm, have a safety briefing, then meet the herd. There's some great photo opportunities with stunning views in the background. A tour of the farm will include meeting all the animals at the farm and playing with our three beagles Oscar, Henry and Sam. The experience ends with a soft drink and delicious home-baking from the farm kitchen.

Explore the amazing trails of the Port Hills and see the best views of the city and Lyttelton Harbour! I'll guide you on an 8km hike and introduce you to the playground of the Christchurch locals - the Port Hills. You'll learn about the geology and history of the area while taking in the views. We will meet in Cashmere (accessible by bus) and walk to the top of Sugarloaf via a network of trails. After enjoying the view from the top, we will have a coffee and treat (not included) at a cafe before hitting the trails back to our start point. This hike is fully customisable, there are many trails in the area with different levels of difficulty, and there are options for all fitness levels and ages. Please feel free to contact me to discuss options, or if the available times do not suit. This activity is great for groups, families or solo travellers who would like to meet other keen hikers!

We will depart Paihia or Russell daily at 10:00 and start sailing straight away. Travellers are encouraged to help with the sailing. We sail throughout the islands stopping at mid-day for a beach walk and snorkelling. Our yummy fresh lunch is provided on board at 13:30 (sandwich lunch with vegetarian, gluten free and vegan options). We sail back in the afternoon arriving in Paihia around 16:00. Marine life, penguins and seabirds are frequently sighted in playful groups. Don't forget your camera! Mike's special knowledge of the area allows you to sail to bays and islands that are not on the beaten path. Our ocean going yacht GUNGHA II crosses oceans annually and is a dream to sail. Please do not bring fishing gear or chilly bins.....we will be sailing! Other things to note For travellers staying in Russell we will provide a no-charge ferry transfer to and from our boarding point in Paihia. You can email us via Air BnB for that detail! All sailing trips are weather dependant. Please email within 24 hours of sailing to confirm you tour and meeting point. Very few tours are cancelled! There may be up to 20 passengers on board. Individual group sizes are limited to up to 10. You will most likely be sailing with others from all over the world!

I can provide a 60min farm ride or trail walk experience for up to two people (subject to weather conditions). This is a unique and special experience with our horses Arizona and Missy who will take you on a serene experience around the farm or trail. Farm Ride - all experience levels (includes a confidence building course - mini gymkhana style). Trail Ride - more experienced riders, but can be on lead for beginners - scenic tour but can be challenging with various slopes and hills to navigate. Riding will be customised to rider safety and their experience levels - (this can be discussed at time of booking/riding). Riding time is approx 1 hr with 30 mins set up/set down period, which you are more than welcome to be a part of also - including feeding and grooming. Weight limits apply. liability release form to complete on day.

Step aboard our classic white eco friendly sailing boat. No noise, no nasty diesel fumes. Our skipper will help make your trip memorable aboard the vessel that has proudly entertained visitors to the region since 1982. After a safety briefing we leave the marina at the beginning of the mighty Waikato River and work our way along the bays of Lake Taupo with an informative and interesting short history of the area, it’s volcanic nature and cultural history. Either sit back and relax on our comfortable seating or have a turn at the wheel. Refreshments like tea coffee or milo ( a kiwi favourite) are available on the trip. Grab a drink and get to know the people around you. As we sail you will enjoy the majestic view of our volcanic mountains, Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. In the Winter they are snowcapped like ice cream cones. Sail Barbary takes you right up close to the face of Ngatoroirangi, for the perfect photo of the 14-metre high rock art, only accessible by water. The skipper will tell you the story of its carving. In the summer we stop for swimming. We are a truly unique and authentic experience. the only sustainable sailing company on the lake.

Step aboard our classic white eco friendly sailing boat. No noise, no nasty diesel fumes. Our skipper will help make your trip memorable aboard the vessel that has proudly entertained visitors to the region since 1982. After a safety briefing we leave the marina at the beginning of the mighty Waikato River and work our way along the bays of Lake Taupo with an informative and interesting short history of the area, it’s volcanic nature and cultural history. Either sit back and relax on our comfortable seating or have a turn at the wheel. Refreshments like tea coffee or milo ( a kiwi favourite) are available on the trip. Grab a drink and get to know the people around you. As we sail you will enjoy the majestic view of our volcanic mountains, Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. In the Winter they are snowcapped like ice cream cones. Sail Barbary takes you right up close to the face of Ngatoroirangi, for the perfect photo of the 14-metre high rock art, only accessible by water. The skipper will tell you the story of its carving. In the summer we stop for swimming. We are a truly unique and authentic experience. the only sustainable sailing company on the lake.

Together we’ll explore central Auckland attractions - its hidden lanes, must-see landmarks, charming squares and serene parks. From downtown to uptown, you'll see more with us because we walk and hop on the locals’ bus! Plus we reveal where to find the best Auckland restaurants and stylish Auckland rooftop bars. "A perfect 101 experience to jump-start your Auckland visit", said James, USA (guest). This small-group tour kicks off downtown on Queen Street before weaving uptown through back lanes to an early fortress. Learn about Auckland's Maori heritage and colonization plus discover the city's award-winning art gallery, street art, sculptures and best local food spots. We'll pause to mingle over a complimentary drink followed by an artisan food tasting. A short bus ride uptown will reveal an arty neighborhood and a bird-filled valley above Auckland's town square. On returning to Queen Street, you'll leave armed with our 'Auckland Best Restaurants' list and loads more local advice. Price includes: Refreshments, bus fare ( if running), a tasting and Aucky Walky Tour's curated list of the best places to eat, shop and go! Maximum group size of 8. Traveling solo? Please message first with your date BEFORE booking as this tour requires a min of 2 people. Please message if you'd prefer a private tour or alternative date. Thank you/Nga mihi.

Discover the ultimate Walking Tour of New Zealands capital city, Wellington, and experience the unique food and drink explosion that has made Wellington the coolest little capital in the world. This is one of the most interesting and memorable food tours where you will have the opportunity to experience an amazing adventure around Wellington, explore the hidden gems and eat and drink the magic of local taste sensations. You will also see some of the unique sights and learn about the history of this stunning New Zealand capital, Wellington, and why it has grown into the amazing city that it is. Other things to note The tour goes ahead rain or shine

An amazing day learning to surf, at Te Arai beach. Auckland #1 east coast surf destination! Well meet up at the Te Arai Beach Reserve meet the team and get you in your wetsuit, and rash shirt! We'll go through an amazing 2 hr surf lesson! Learn about the waves, your surfboard and controlling it in the water Correct positioning, paddling and timing to catch that wave Then into the popup, surfing stance and surfing down the face of the wave Once you've got the basics we hit the water and are right there with you coaching you through each and every wave You'll be improving every attempt riding waves towards the beach and down the line of the wave. Proper surfing! Once your up and riding we'll quickly move into surfing down the wave and show you how to go faster and turn your surfboard on the wave! After the 2hr Surf Lesson youll have a 5 min break to rest, hydrate, sunblock up Then youll keep your surfboard and wetsuit and can carry on surfing after your lesson for another 2 hours, practicing what you just learnt to master the techniques. The whole beach and surfing experience is about 4-4.5 hours and is an amazing adventure and experience from beginning to end!

We'll meet you at our front gate and escort you along our tree-lined driveway to begin the tour. You'll experience our scenic, 32-acre, off grid, organic and Biodynamic farm-let/accommodation, set in the hill country and native bush of Golden Bay. Meet our very friendly herd of 14 alpacas. We'll take a 20 minute walk & feed & interact with these peaceful and graceful animals. A highlight is when we take the alpacas for a swim. During our walk it's guaranteed you'll also meet our ducks, chickens & our Tibetan Spaniel. 40-60 minutes. We’re happy to show guests how we survive living completely off grid (in comfort) without any access to town water or mains electricity. This will include a short, picturesque walk through pristine native bush, a tour of our vegetable garden & orchard plus an alpaca fleece spinning demonstration. A tour of our unique accommodation options (including a 1952 Bedford house truck) will be available depending on occupancy. We'll also be glad to detail our blueprint to biodiversity which prevents us needing to use harmful chemicals or heavy machinery. 20-40 minutes. Other things to note: Phone reception can be patchy near us due to the hills so it's best to read directions carefully. 'Spark/Skinny' customers are usually fine. When dealing with animals, plans are always subject to change depending on the co-operation of the alpacas on the day.