Reviews of the Rimu adventure trip
from our post-trip surveys!

  Docs, Dick, and Sucking it!   May 11 2012

Review by Gregory Hamel (Hamilton, Bermuda) for Rimu Apr 16 2012
The face of the company is the guides, and both Lina and Amanda are genuine, caring, and decisive individuals. Our group was small enough to prompt an intimate exchange of stories, experiences, and emotions; which past the time on the long drives, filled the kitchen with laughter, and raised everyone's confidence on the trail, such as wading through a river at 7 in the morning.

  Exciting, exuberant, exhilarating, excellent   May 6 2012

Review by Jane Unzeitig (Laredo, Texas, United States) for Rimu Apr 16 2012
The Rimu trip exceeded all of my expectations for an adventure holiday. The website promised a full itinerary of activities in beautiful surroundings. What could not be predicted was the fantastic weather that we were blessed with and also the interesting companions that would share this time with us. Our guides both worked round the clock to make sure that we were fed, watered, sheltered, entertained and educated about our surroundings. Including so many of the best features of the South Island meant lots of driving, but our bus was quite comfortable, snacks were plentiful and our guides stopped at strategic spots for shopping, picnicking and even for short hikes that were not on the itinerary. Hiking, bicycling, kayaking and eating outdoors back home will never be able to compare with the grand Kiwi experience that we recently enjoyed.

  Awesome, the trip of a lifetime!   May 3 2012

Review by Ross Heaton (Palm Desert, California, United States) for Rimu Apr 16 2012

  Rimu   Apr 16 2012

Review by John Liguori (New Hyde Park, New York, United States) for Rimu Mar 26 2012
I had an amazing time hiking and swimming in the sun all day for two weeks. Our guide, Ken, was superb. He would try really hard to find all of the best opportunities for us to enjoy ourselves. I have never been so happy as I've been on this trip.

  The greatest travel experience of my life!   Apr 12 2012

Review by Steve Carpenter (Somerville , Massachusetts, United States) for Rimu Mar 26 2012
This trip was everything I had hoped and much more. The Southern Island of New Zealand is every bit as beautiful as I hoped. I found Active New Zealand to be extremely organized. They have this down tight. They don't skimp on anything and they show you everything. Our guide Ken was the most patient, amiable, energetic, slightly crazy companion you could imagine. I have never met a person more suited to his profession than Ken. We could not have been more impressed.

  A Dream Adventure Far Exceeding My Dreams   Apr 12 2012

Review by Laura White (Somerville , Massachusetts, United States) for Rimu Mar 26 2012
I am a seasoned traveller, have lived on several continents, and have been on numerous solo adventures and also organized group tours. There is NO COMPARISON between my prior experiences and Active New Zealand. There is certainly no other lead guide like Ken Dixon in this world. He deserves to be paid in gold. My fiance and I didn't just get lucky with this trip, we won the freaking lottery. Sorry about that near-swear there, but I cannot emphasize enough that we could not have had a more spectacular adventure with the perfect blend of comfort, challenge, adrenaline, fresh air, gorgeous weather, endless vistas, and - because of Ken - delicious soy products galore. Did I mention how lucky we were? Especially with me being vegetarian and lactose-intolerant, I was assuming nothing more than Ramen Noodles for 14 days straight. Hello!? Ken is not only an expert in multiple extreme sports, identifying flora and fauna, a wealth of information on history, a keen card player, has the energy of a teenager, the professionalism of a business owner, but he also happens to be a vegan gourmet chef. Heaven. I would recommend this trip to anyone who is seeking an adventure in a paradise.

  Awesome, the trip of a lifetime!   Apr 9 2012

Review by Karey Irwin (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada) for Rimu Mar 19 2012

  An Epic Adventure!   Apr 9 2012

Review by Catherine Russell (Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada) for Rimu Feb 20 2012
If you want to see the wonders and beauty of the South Island this is the way to go! There is no better way than to explore this country than by foot, kayak or bike. And you will be given the opportunity to see parts of the island many tourists never do! Even members of my family who live on the South Island thought this would be a great way to see their own country!

  A Most Excellent Trip   Apr 8 2012

Review by Kate Rupley (Long Beach, California, United States) for Rimu Mar 19 2012
We had a great time. My partner and I have differing fitness levels and our guide, Duck handled this very well. All of the activities were well thought out and very enjoyable. We arrived at most locations with time to add a short run or hike in before dinner or breakfast. As I am in training for a 1/2 Ironman, I needed to get in some training and the schedule was flexible enough for me to run a few times. The food was excellent and plentiful. Kate took special care to accommodate everyone's food preferences and is an excellent, creative cook. There were plenty of snack choices as well. I took tons of great pictures but never used the zoom lens I brought. I was too busy enjoying the activities to spend time changing lenses. Also, even though it rained on a few days, I never used the rain pants (used the rain jacket a bunch). The gaiters and binoculars were never used either. The bug spray is a good item to have even in the fall. We did the biking trip option. Tanglewood B&B is worth a great recommendation as well. Great facilities and Linda was an excellent host. Our bike guide, Aaron, was also friendly, knowledgeable, and flexible.

  Awesome, the trip of a lifetime!   Apr 5 2012

Review by Matt Guzowski (Chicago, Illinois, United States) for Rimu Mar 19 2012

  Awesome, the trip of a lifetime!   Apr 2 2012

Review by Sara Lange (Madison, Wisconsin, United States) for Rimu Mar 5 2012
I had great time on this trip. There was something to get out and do every day, and so many walks that I could not have found on my own.

  RIMU beyond belief   Mar 31 2012

Review by Tony Taylor (Mammoth Lakes, California, United States) for Rimu Mar 5 2012
We have done very little group travel. However, the ANZ RIMU trip looked like a great way to see the South Island and to participate in the kind of activities that we love. But day after day, the trip exceeded our expectations. The first cup of coffee in the morning (Lina and Daniel always remembered how we like our coffee and handed it to us as we came into the kitchen); the organization of and expectations for the day's activities; the amazing and sometimes challenging activities (we'll never forget days 2 and 3 on the Angelus Track or the hike to the ridge at Mt. Cook); the incredible beauty of the South Island; the amazing meals; our fabulous guides; and much more. It is all a 2 week package of experiences we will never forget and can only hope to equal on some future travel experience. Thank you! THANK YOU!!

  The Best of The Best!   Mar 28 2012

Review by Cindy Street (Laguna Hills, California, United States) for Rimu Feb 13 2012
Our Rimu trip was everything and more then we expected. The guides, DK and Dan were so attentive and supportive of each and everyone of us. The scenery was spectacular. The accommodations were very unique, but comfortable. We would not have changed a thing. The management staff were very attentive as well, Matte, etc. We had some things that we needed assistance with and the trip lent itself to that type of flexibility. We are glad that there was variety and choices that were somewhat flexible. Thanks to all!! Cindy & Gary Street

  Hard to put into words....   Mar 28 2012

Review by Rachel Mooney (FPO, AP, Japan) for Rimu Mar 5 2012
When friends ask how the trip to New Zealand went, I don't know where to begin describing the amazing journey! I am finding it difficult to adequately describe to them not only the incredible beauty of the country that we were able to experience up close, but also the feeling of family I felt within the small tour group. Our guides, Lina and Dan, were an unbeatable team and kept us smiling. The lodgings were "off the beaten path" and absolutely perfect. Dan whipped up a memorable meal every night no matter where we were...even miles from nowhere in the mountain huts of Nelson Lakes National Park! Who can make cheese cake in a mountain hut? Dan can! I am certain that I would not have experienced half as much of New Zealand if I had traveled on my own. Definitely the best trip I have taken!

  Amazing and life changing!   Mar 26 2012

Review by Arzu Gokcen (Minnesota, United States) for Rimu Feb 13 2012
This was one of the best things I have ever treated myself to! I cannot recommend it highly enough, it got me out of my comfort zone, but made me feel so safe and proud of myself for the things I accomplished, like climbing a mountain!

  Couldn't be better in any way!   Mar 26 2012

Review by Jeanne Bates (Kansas City, Missouri, United States) for Rimu Mar 5 2012
Trip of a Lifetime is a pretty good comment about what we did and what we saw, but it doesn't cover our most awesome guides- LINA and DAN- and the personal attention they gave to each of us. It also doesn't cover their knowledge of, and love for, NZ or the fantastic provided meals. Nor does it cover the attention to details that they and ACTIVE have incorporated. All this combined make it "THE Trip of a Lifetime". Thanks all! Jeanne/Kansas City Missouri

  Rimu Rocks   Mar 25 2012

Review by for Rimu Feb 27 2012
My wife and I wanted a more active trip than our last vacation and ACTIVE NZ delivered. I began to have doubts when my jet-lagged, deconditioned body cried out for mercy during the 1000 meter climlb on day 2 of the Angelus Circuit, but Amanda was there with much appreciated hiking tips, patience, distraction, and encouragement. The next day, when high winds and poor visibility set in, Dan was on the satellite phone, coming up with an alternate route off the mountain, ultimately commandeering a boat, magically replacing the last 3 hours of hiking. We couldn't have done that on our own! After Angelus, everything else -- kayaking in Okarito and Milford Sound, cycling along the Hawea and Clutha rivers, and tossing off 2-4 hour day hikes along the way -- was Easy Peasy and great fun. The Sheep Shearers' Quarters at Braemar was an inspired choice for the last two nights' accommodations. After two weeks of Rimu, the Mueller Ridge hike seemed way easier than advertised, and was most rewarding. Rimu featured outstanding alpine and coastal views, magnificent sunsets, brilliant guiding, a delightful group of fellow travellers, and excellent cuisine. Highly recommended!

  Susan's Big Adventure.   Mar 25 2012

Review by for Rimu Feb 20 2012

  Absolutely amazing trip!   Mar 25 2012

Review by Christine Reilly (Troy, Michigan, United States) for Rimu Mar 5 2012
My husband, Patrick, and I absolutely loved our Rimu trip with Active New Zealand in March 2012! It was the best trip we've ever taken. The details were all planned out for us and the trip ran seamlessly, and even on days when weather put a crimp in our plans, our wonderful guides had great secondary options lined up for us. We loved the 3 day hike in Nelson Lakes National Park and considered it a highlight of the trip, despite my initial apprehension with backpacking! It was such a fun and different experience, and our guides really made us feel like we could do anything! We felt so accomplished after that hike and the views were breathtaking. I also considered the mountain biking a highlight; I absolutely loved feeling like I was flying going down those hills, whooshing past the beautiful scenery! Our guides, Lina and Daniel, were the greatest and really enhanced our experience. They provided fun and informative insights into Kiwi culture and the country and were just a blast to hang out with. They were also very responsible and looked out for our safety, kept us on schedule. Lina also did a good job of breaking up the long driving days with stops in little towns, small hikes, etc. We didn't feel like we were stuck in the bus for hours on end at any time. What we loved about the tour and the guides was that they led gently; they were there when we needed them, but gave us room to do our own thing when we wanted. We did not feel restricted by being with the group. The food was outstanding. Even while backpacking, Daniel whipped up some gourmet camping food! Honestly we ate so well, the hiking barely negated it! We loved the hiking, kayaking, and biking. Unfortunately, our Milford Sound kayak was cancelled due to high winds and rain, but Active hooked us up with a nice boat ride in its place. A few small comments: the bus is very tight with regards to leg room and with a full group of 15 and our packs, it got rather uncomfortable at times. The seal snorkel didn't go very well (no seals and we had to walk over an hour on rocks in wet suits each way), but I think that was an anomaly due to the weather. We were rather bummed that in a few accommodations we had to sleep in twin beds while other couples got queens. That's about it. As for activity, it was a very active trip and we absolutely loved it. I think it's the right amount of activity for most people in decent shape. For us (in good shape, in our late twenties/early thirties), there were days that pushed us, but most of the time it was just fun and the right balance of exertion and relaxation rather than a continuous challenge - the way an active vacation should be! We saw amazing things that I do not think we could have seen if we had attempted this trip on our own. Highly recommend Active NZ and we would love to do it again!

  NZ rocks!!   Mar 25 2012

Review by Katie Spice (Elyria, Ohio, United States) for Rimu Feb 27 2012
Overall, a really fantastic trip. Enjoyed kayaking, mountain biking and the heli-hike the most. Loved the three day kayak trip. Didn't care for the seal swimming. The scenery became more and more beautiful everywhere we went. Can't wait to go back! Fun to stay in places "off the beaten path".

  Dorothy on the Rimu trail   Mar 25 2012

Review by Dot Singfield (Cobourg, Ontario, Canada) for Rimu Jan 23 2012
I thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience of Rimu! Even the hikes in the rain, and at one time seeing the whole mountainside like a giant waterfall! Absolutely spectacular! And to top it all off to have Cristina and Ben make a fabulous supper ready for us after our hot showers at the end of the day!

  Exceeded my expectations   Mar 24 2012

Review by Jane Colbert (La Canada, California, United States) for Rimu Mar 5 2012
My Active New Zealand trip truly was awesome! From our wonderful guides, Lina and Dan, to the incredible scenery, to my great trip companions, to the delicious food, and, of course, the various physical challenges, this trip had it all.

  Awesome, the trip of a lifetime!   Mar 24 2012

Review by Patty Frick (Atlantic Beach, Florida, United States) for Rimu Mar 5 2012

  Anyone can do it.   Mar 22 2012

Review by Jere Kessler (Huntsville, Texas, United States) for Rimu Mar 5 2012
This is a once in a lifetime adventure for young and old. At 73, I worried that it would be too tough for me, but the awesome adventure was within my capability. Well planned, the tour keep us busy the whole time, even with three days of rain. The guides had a plan B for every day. The prepared meals and housing were the best available considering several motels/hostels were the only game in town. New Zealand is by far the most unique country I have ever been in.

  February Rimu - all we had to do was enjoy ourselves   Mar 19 2012

Review by Karen Hunt (Chatham, Kent, United Kingdom) for Rimu Feb 27 2012
Beautiful country & amazing experience! A fantastic trip that covered most of the South Island with every day different to the next. Our Guides Dan & Amanda ensured everything ran smoothly which meant all we had to do was enjoy ourselves. And we did!

  Awesome, the trip of a lifetime!   Mar 19 2012

Review by Jay Taussig (Denver, Colorado, United States) for Rimu Feb 6 2012

  Awesome, the trip of a lifetime!   Mar 18 2012

Review by for Rimu Feb 27 2012

  Awesome, the trip of a lifetime!   Mar 17 2012

Review by Robert Torrey (Houston, Texas, United States) for Rimu Feb 20 2012

  Most Awesome leaders and most fun group   Mar 17 2012

Review by Robbie Torrey (Houston, Texas, United States) for Rimu Feb 20 2012
My husband and I did the Rimu as his retirement trip. We had a great time. It was more than we hoped it would be. The scenery, the people, the options. We lucked out with the group of people we met and shared our experience with. We also were so pleased with Lina and Magnus. I cannot imagine that you have a better cook (chef) than Magnus. It was always a delightful surprise the culinary wonders he provided. Lina was the best! She was on top of everything. We feel we saw more and did more fun things because of her knowledge of the area and her home country. What a KIWI she is!If anything was even mentioned, photo ops, ice cream stops, thermal pools, it happened. Our hiking, biking, kayaking options were perfect. While the weather didn't always co-operate we still had a great time. My thanks to Steve, who showed up with a boat after our Angeles backpack trip. I have to say also, that the coin for the 5 minute shower was almost my favorite thing of the trip! We will sing the praises of Active New Zealand. While New Zealand is a country which can stand alone in its beauty and lovely warm people, you guys brought it to an extra level for us. To Lina and Magnus we say good on ya!

  Amazing trip!   Mar 15 2012

Review by Colin Creager (Olmsted Township, Ohio, United States) for Rimu Feb 27 2012
This was an incredible trip....unbelievable scenery everyday and always fun things to do! Loved the kayaking, biking, and the sheep shearer's quarters. Definitely recommend the heli-hike, one of the highlights for sure and well worth the extra money. All of the places we stayed at were unique and off the beaten path, making the trip even more special. It was very hard to leave.....would definitely like to come back some day.

  Rimu   Mar 12 2012

Review by Leah Soltesz (Trail, British Columbia, Canada) for Rimu Feb 20 2012
I could not ask for a better trip, with amazing guides and amazing food. My only complain is that it is over. I had soooooo much fun that I wish it never ended. Our guide added stuff such as a dip in the river via a bridge jump to cool off in the middle of the bike ride. I loved the challenge. Did stuff I never would have otherwise done on my own, and plan on challenging myself to do more, and I definitely plan on coming back for round two. Can I have the same Guide again? Outragously lovely time of it!

  Awesome, the trip of a lifetime!   Mar 12 2012

Review by Jill Paulson (River Falls, Wisconsin, United States) for Rimu Feb 20 2012
New Zealand may be the most beautiful counrty in the world, but on this trip you don't just see the beauty, you get into it and experience it and let it challenge you and become a part of you. Our guides couldn't have done a better job of educating us, encouraging us, watching out for us and being a part of us. Our entire group was great! I would recommend this trip to any one with a sense of adventure.

  Too good to be true!   Mar 11 2012

Review by Kelly Gillum (Alabama, United States) for Rimu Feb 20 2012
I don't have a single complaint during the two weeks I spent with Active. Our two guides, Lina and Magnus, we're amazing in every aspect. So fun, friendly, enthusiastic, informational, GREAT cooks, the list could go on. New Zealand is a beautiful country and I am so thankful to have spent my time with Active. I had an unforgettable experience and the trip definitely exceeded my expectations! Thanks for everything!!

  Trip of a lifetime!   Mar 10 2012

Review by Elizabeth Good (Canton, Ohio, United States) for Rimu Feb 6 2012
This was an amazing trip! Every last detail was taken care of and we had nothing to worry about! In fact, we were so engaged in the trip that most of the time we had no idea what day it was! It was great that most of the time the activities could accommodate any activity level. Or if you felt like you wanted to take it easy one day, there was an option to do that too! Or if you really wanted to push yourself, you could! To top it all of, our guides, Ben and Cristina were phenomenal. Ben kept us laughing and did a great job educating us about New Zealand history. Cristina was an excellent cook and did a great job making sure every last detail was taken care of. I feel so fortunate to have had Ben and Cristina as our guides. I couldn't have imagined it any other way!

  14 Great Days   Mar 10 2012

Review by Neil Crossan (San Francisco, California, United States) for Rimu Feb 20 2012
I can�t imagine a better way to spend 14 days. Our guides Ken & Ele took such good care of us. And the best way to see the magnificence that NZ has to offer is with boots on the ground or oars in the water.

  Something cool and different everyday with fun people   Mar 5 2012

Review by Zak Keirn (Loveland, Colorado, United States) for Rimu Feb 6 2012
Hard to pick a favorite day. Every part of the trip was a unique experience. We had fantastic guides and a really fun loving group of people to share the trip with. I think sharing the beauty and adventure of the trip with newly formed friends was my favorite part of the whole experience.

  Way to go ..... fab trip and a great way to celebrate a birthday   Mar 5 2012

Review by Annette Dockrell (Calgary, Alberta, Canada) for Rimu Feb 6 2012
I took the plunge and booked the trip for my birthday - and New Zealand was an exceptional place to celebrate it. Thanks to Ben, Cristina and 'the cool gang' for partying on the beach and making 2012 a birthday to remember for me - 'You guys rock!' Birthday celebrations aside, the whole trip was fantastic - great, clean comfortable accomodation, delicious food (thanks Cristina!), glorious scenery, activities for everyone and more laughs than a 'comedy show'. I'm ready to do it all over again ................

  Round 2   Mar 2 2012

Review by Jeremy Williams (United States) for Rimu Jan 30 2012
After going on the Kauri the week before, I found it great to see new plants and animals on the South Island. We stayed in remote areas that really made the trip flexible. I could not stay for the whole trip, therefore the Active NZ staff gave me a great deal on half the trip!

  A leap of faith for this 70 year old outdoor woman!   Feb 28 2012

Review by Carolyn Adam (Broomfield, Colorado, United States) for Rimu Jan 30 2012
I came away with tremendous pride in my performance, a welcome relief from the anxiety I felt before landing in New Zealand. My last minute decision to join Active New Zealand Rimu gave me little time to bring my fitness level to where I imagined it should be. My guides and members of our group were very encouraging and helpful so I was able to complete this adventure in fine form. The magical, mystical weather during the Angelus Circuit hike was so calming and inspiring. I focused on the eye-popping beauty rather than the effort. The tasty, hot meals at the conclusion of each chilly backpack day was a reward beyond measure. Our guides DK, Ele and Magnus were fun, so free with their knowledge of our surroundings, excellent team mates to each other, tireless in their effort to please us and I think instrumental in bringing our group to the status of "family". The hiking, cycling and kayaking gave us perfect opportunities to explore New Zealand from so many vantage points. We not only saw the spectacular variety in environments we felt them through our feet, our butts and our upper bodies. We smelled the smells, touched the plants, walked through the rivers, and joyfully celebrated the occasional sunny day. This was a total experience, unlike any I have had in previous adventures. Absolutely outstanding in every way!! Thank you DK, Ele and Magnus. Carolyn Adam

  Hike, bike, paddle, laugh, eat, drink with "Bruce" and the gang   Feb 28 2012

Review by Fred Munson (Arvada, Colorado, United States) for Rimu Jan 30 2012
An amazing trip! Fabulous scenery and blessed with good weather. Great group and I can't imagine having any better guides than DK and Elle. Some tough hikes, but terrific rewards at the end. A very diverse trip with lots to see and do. Loved the Kiwi culture and fun loving people. Great food and drink as well. Please send group picture from Admiral Creighton's as well. Thanks.

  Loved my trip   Feb 25 2012

Review by Dora Jane Flesher (Little Rock, Arkansas, United States) for Rimu Feb 6 2012
I am a frequent traveler and have tried a variety of approaches with my travel. The Rimu stands out as the perfect way to experience the South Island. The fantastic itinerary combined with energetic and organized guides allow you to do and see a ton of amazing things in 13 days. It's unbelievable how much activity and scenery you'll experience in such a short time. This trip is a must do if you want to fully experience the South Island.

  Amazing country, would recommend this trip   Feb 24 2012

Review by Alice Howard (Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States) for Rimu Feb 6 2012
Amazing country, would recommend this trip to many friends (as long as they like being active); well-organized, beautifully run, all details were fantastic.

  Super!   Feb 15 2012

Review by Pamela Doughman (California, United States) for Rimu Jan 23 2012
Our guides were knowledgeable, skilled, good-hearted, and great fun! Great group of people on the trip! Expect some very challenging hikes: 3,000 foot elevation gain and/or descent on rocky trails! Diverse landscapes over 1,600 miles of driving. Beautiful destinations!

  Rimu Jan 23 2012 - Really was a trip of a lifetime.   Feb 10 2012

Review by Jess Wickins (Birmingham, West Midlands, United Kingdom) for Rimu Jan 23 2012
Really was a trip of a lifetime. We travelled with a wonderful group of people, experienced some of the most glorious landscapes we ever seen and felt a massive sense of achievement on the completion of our three-day hike. The guides were fantastic providing information, support, laughs and the most fantastic food.

  This was my 6th group join-in tour with as many companies...   Feb 7 2012

Review by Tom Quain (Cazenovia, New York, United States) for Rimu Jan 9 2012
This was my 6th group join-in tour with as many companies around the world and I must say it was my favorite. What an amazing experience. Active NZ did an excellent job in selecting the activities, seeking out unique, comfortable and fun accommodations, and finding some very remarkable people to guide us on our tour. New Zealand is a stunningly beautiful land and if you're looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure, I recommend Active New Zealand 100%.

  Beautiful, clean country   Feb 2 2012

Review by Kay Tung (St Louis, Missouri, United States) for Rimu Nov 21 2011
Beautiful, clean country (I usually travel in Central America for comparison sake). Kiwi's are wonderful, friendly, and active people. The terrain was stunning and the water crystal clear. Guides Mike and Jacs were always accommodating, cheerful and encouraging on tough hikes. Jacs is a great cook.

  Rimu, Truly an Amazing Experience   Feb 1 2012

Review by Kristen Flagg (Bridgeport, Pennsylvania, United States) for Rimu Jan 9 2012
My dream destination had been Milford Sound and I got that and so much more!!! Every last detail was taken care of, every meal was delicious, and everything in between was handled by my fabulous guides Mike and Jacs. I would take them around the world with me if I could. And I feel fortunate to have met some wonderful new friends. Be forewarned the weather can be moody in NZ and even when I thought my trip was going to be mediocre, the group activities continued, rain, wind and shine. You see parts of the country that no tour bus will ever take you to. Active NZ Rimu itinerary ensured that I saw a little of everything! I would do it all over again. And I would recommend Active NZ to anyone who asked. I left feeling challenged, refreshed and rewarded. I can't wait to book another adventure trip, perhaps through Active South America...

  Every day better than the last!   Feb 1 2012

Review by Susan Longar (Hillsborough, California, United States) for Rimu Dec 12 2011

  Rimu Sweet As   Jan 28 2012

Review by Iwan Williams (Llanfairpwll, Anglesey, United Kingdom) for Rimu Jan 2 2012
Great scenery, great activities, great people and great guides. Put simply, the Rimu trip was SWEET AS!!

  Awesome, Awesome, Awesome!   Jan 27 2012

Review by Heidi Mallinson (Thornton, Colorado, United States) for Rimu Jan 9 2012
I have nothing but love for Active NZ & our wonderful guides, Mike and Jaclyn. Mike and Jacs went above and beyond in making sure everyone in the group had a fabulous time. The places we explored were amazing and beautiful. The food Jacs made for us was incredible. Thank you!

  Best Honeymoon Ever   Jan 23 2012

Review by James Skinner (Lubbock, Texas, United States) for Rimu Dec 26 2011
My wife and I just got back from the Dec. 26 Rimu trip and had an absolute blast. It was our honeymoon and we couldn't have picked a better way to spend it. Pieke and Sarah were the absolute best guides, the scenery was beyond anything we could have imagined. My wife and I have both traveled all over the world, some trips through guide companies and others flying by the seat of our pants. Active allowed us to experience New Zealand in a way that kept the cheese, that is typical of guide companies, out of our trip. The company really took us off the beaten path to some of the coolest places and allowed us to discover the towns on our own. I felt that every single dollar we spent went into the cost of the trip rather than into someone's pocket. The food and lodging were incredible as well. I would recommend this trip to anyone who loves the outdoors and who is looking for a little bit of adventure.

  Loved it!   Jan 23 2012

Review by Lorna Thomas (Paradise, California, United States) for Rimu Dec 26 2011
The RIMU trip was interesting, great fun, well paced, and challenging. Our two guides were excellent-the best!. Great healthy food too. Our group was composed of 11 people ranging in age from 20s to 60s. Active New Zealand arranged for an alternative hike, when necessary, so that everyone could enjoy the trip within his/her capabilities, but could feel they had accomplished more than expected.

  Fantastic Trip! I have been to over 75 countries...   Jan 23 2012

Review by Lisa Cochrum (San Jose, California, United States) for Rimu Dec 26 2011
I have been to over 75 countries, many on tours, and this was one of my favorite trips. Focusing the two weeks on the South Island was great since there was so much to see! I had a great time and would highly recommend this trip to others.

  A Great Adventure   Jan 22 2012

Review by Julia Sharpe (Allston, Massachusetts, United States) for Rimu Dec 26 2011
This trip was a perfect mix of activity and relaxation. We got to see so many incredible places! Even though we would have loved to stay another 2 weeks (or months...), I still feel like we got a comprehensive preview of the amazing sites that South Island has to offer.

  RIMU Review   Jan 21 2012

Review by Tim Travis (Eden Prairie, Minnesota, United States) for Rimu Jan 2 2012
The RIMU trip was a great combination of wonderful activities, interesting co-travelers, great guides, excellent food and very good accomodations. I recommend this trip for those seeking an active group travel experience!

  Awesome is an understatement!   Jan 17 2012

Review by Rebecca Flanigan (Payneham South, South Australia, Australia) for Rimu Dec 5 2011
The guides were friendly and knowledgable. At times in NZ I felt like it was 60 million years BC - I was just waiting for a dinosaur of some description to come running out of the rainforest! The scenery was simply stunning. I tried not to sleep on the bus because I didn't want to miss a thing! I never would have thought some Aussies, Americans, a South African family and Londoner would get along - but it was a fantastic combo and I hope to see them all again in future!

  Absolutely wonderful trip in every respect.   Jan 12 2012

Review by Mitchell Griffin (Hillsborough, California, United States) for Rimu Dec 12 2011
Absolutely wonderful trip in every respect.

  Creating memories around every corner   Jan 11 2012

Review by Marian Walrath (Pittsford, New York, United States) for Rimu Dec 19 2011
This trip really was a once in a lifetime experience that exceeded our expectations on many fronts. Our guides, Ken and Amanda, went over and above so many times, and took this trip from good to great! We were fortunate that our whole family could be together on this adventure. We've made friends and created memories that we'll have forever. We kept a little journal as we traveled along that we'll post separately. New Zealand was a great setting. Add to that our group and how we embraced each day, and we have stories that we'll be telling for years to come!

  Rimu - Best family trip we have ever taken.   Jan 11 2012

Review by Katie Thagard (Birmingham, Alabama, United States) for Rimu Dec 19 2011
Best family trip we have ever taken. Beautiful country, amazing group of new friends and truly the best guides around.

  The Most Beautiful Place   Jan 11 2012

Review by Colin Griffin (Hillsborough, California, United States) for Rimu Dec 12 2011
The first time that I said "this is the most beautiful place I've ever been" was on the second day of the trip. Then I said it again on the fourth. And then on the seventh. And one last time for good measure on the tenth. New Zealand is far and away the most spectacular place I've ever been, and Active took me to all of the best spots. Three weeks after my trip, I am still in awe of the fantastic service and phenomenal scenery.

  A Great Trip - the trip was more than I expected.   Jan 9 2012

Review by Alexander Astorga (Huntington Park, California, United States) for Rimu Dec 19 2011
The trip was more than I expected. Although there is no way for the South Island to be explored in just two weeks, the trip was a great introduction to New Zealand, and pointed out some of the highlights that the South Island has to offer. I'm more than satisfied with the trip, and glad to have booked with Active New Zealand.

  Wow, what an amazing trip!   Jan 8 2012

Review by Janet Anderson (Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States) for Rimu Dec 19 2011
From the moment we were picked up it was impressive to discover how well thought out, well planned and organized this trip was. The guides made each moment educational and entertaining. The people on the trip are now friends for life. Each day I thought it could not get any better and it did. This trip far exceeded any of my expectations and can't wait to take another Active trip.

  Great experience!   Jan 8 2012

Review by Eve Shapiro (Tucson, Arizona, United States) for Rimu Dec 12 2011
We enjoyed the variety of activities, off-the-beaten track accomodations, and great leaders! We plan to go with Active again to a different destination in the future. Eve, Tucson

  Our Honeymoon   Jan 6 2012

Review by Nathan Swift (Corona, California, United States) for Rimu Dec 19 2011
We decided on an active trip instead of sitting on a beach somewhere for our honeymoon. It was the best decision we could have made. Our guides were very knowledgeable and extremely fun. We got to see things that would have been hard to get to if we were on our own. It was a trip we will never forget. It was my wife's first experience with backpacking and since we have been home, all she wants to know is when we are going backpacking again. I attribute this to the work of the guides to make the trip adventurous and fun. In a close second to the great outdoor activities was the food. Every meal that our guides prepared was phenomenal. I didn't ever have a meal that I didn't go back for second helpings. Thanks to Active New Zealand and our guides Ben and Cristina.

  The Rimu trip is one of my best holidays so far.   Dec 28 2011

Review by Stephanie Yeung (Cammeray , New South Wales, Australia) for Rimu Nov 28 2011
I really enjoyed the trip. I didn't know much about the South Island before I came to New Zealand and it gave me an idea of what New Zealand was all about. Really enjoyed all the activities on offer especially the hiking, cycling and kayaking. What really helped was the fact that we had nice weather all throughout the trip. The Rimu trip is one of my best holidays so far. I will come back to the South island to discover more.

  Perfect getaway for busy, active couple   Dec 22 2011

Review by Ryan Gibson (Mountain View, California, United States) for Rimu Oct 31 2011
FITNESS: When choosing a vacation, we tried our best to figure out if the activity level was appropriately challenging given our fitness. From previous reviews it was hard to tell as we had no idea how we compared to the previous customers. For reference, my wife had just completed her first half marathon, and I was coming off a season of competitive road bike racing. While this trip was actually not physically challenging for us, I now realize it doesn't matter. We had a blast, and without hesitation I would recommend it to any athletic visitor with realistic expectations. Let's be clear, "Active" does not mean "training camp". Some in our group would go for a morning run, or push themselves faster on hikes to get a little more physiological impact. Based on various metrics, I know I lost fitness while in New Zealand but no where near as much as if I had been lounging around in a beach resort or shuffling around on a city break. While we didn't come back to our accommodations and collapse with exhaustion each night, we were "out and about" being physical and enjoying the outdoors every day. Sometimes on vacation you feel bound up - constrained by food options, lack of movement, confined spaces and limited interactions due to language barriers. This trip was quite the opposite. With virtually no internet access, and a very full itinerary, we were thrust into the vastness of New Zealand 100%. This really kept our minds busy which means when we returned home we were refreshed. One of the surprises was how big the South Island is. There is a fair amount of driving between destinations, but the guides do a great job of breaking it up with short hikes etc. The amount you get to see is well worth the bus time. GROUP: So much of the experience is affected by the group make up. Mostly Americans and Canadians, we had about half singles and half couples. We had every decade from 20s to 60s represented. The common thread was a "roll with the punches" attitude and a desire to see part of the world while wearing hiking boots. GENERAL: The guides were truly fantastic, usually predicting all our needs before we knew we had them. We visited a lot of off the beaten path towns and accommodations that you just wouldn't go to on your own. New zealand itself was fantastic place to visit - I honestly could move there tomorrow. It's gorgeous, easy to get around, and people were genuinely warm and welcoming. We were pleased by the emphasis on fresh, local and healthy eating. We are both vegetarian and found it no issue at all to find interesting, satisfying food while there. BOOTS: In CA we do all our (dry, hilly) hiking in trail shoes. I brought boots, but in retrospect could have done almost all the hikes in my trail shoes. The heli-hike company rents you boots for crampons so don't worry about that. They do get wet, and opportunities to dry them off are few and far between. One additional item to bring: a stash of gallon size zip lock bags. Great for wet clothes, and a myriad of other things. CAMERA: If you are wondering what camera setup to bring, I recommend you leave the zoom at home. There's actually not tons of wildlife and there was plenty of times when overcast sky called for a faster lens. I had a great time with my 35mm f/1.8G in some of the forested areas. I wish I had brought a mini tripod and remote to help stabilize though. If you are relatively fit, you have plenty of time to take photos while the group catches up/gathers. Of couse the 18-55mm lens covered 95% of the time just fine and there are plenty of times where the bus pulls over and you have only a few minutes to get out there and get that shot so there's a time penalty to having multiple lenses to choose from. MOUNTAIN BIKING: We opted for the MTB option on the trip, and had a blast. We were not sure how technical it would be but in the end that didn't matter as much. I am on my road bike and my wife runs almost every day. We get out on our mountain bikes in the CA mountains maybe 6-12 times a year. It was hard to prepare specifically for this type of trail. It was not as technical nor as steep as a lot of trails here in Norcal but the days we rode it was quite wet which required some patience. More important than technical skill is a good attitude. If you are willing to make it fun, and not be a complainer you will have a good time. My wife sometimes finds MTB frustrating and the heights frightening. She ended up at the back of our small pack but probably had more fun then the rest of us. Well, actually I had a crazy good time too bombing down the Charlotte Trail. Again, the terrain was new and the scenery gorgeous but this was not a MTB training camp.

  Amazing Experience   Dec 19 2011

Review by Katie Coakley (Mexico Beach, Florida, United States) for Rimu Nov 7 2011
This trip exceeded my expectations--it was the perfect mix of adrenaline, social activities and amazing scenery. I have memories that will last a lifetime!

  It was first class service all the the way   Dec 16 2011

Review by Duncan Moutrie (Sydney, New South Wales, Australia) for Rimu Oct 31 2011
If the Active NZ Trip was an aeroplane, then I defiantly turned left when I boarded, It was first class service all the the way, the guides went out of their way to ensure that ll the guests had a great trip.

  Active New Zealand Rocks!   Dec 16 2011

Review by Murray Klein (Atlanta, Georgia, United States) for Rimu Nov 28 2011
I had a great time on my 2 week Rimu in New Zealand... great guides, great sites, nice accomodations, great food and spectacular views of the New Zealand countryside.

  Great way to see South Island   Dec 14 2011

Review by Lisa Perreault (Mountain View, California, United States) for Rimu Oct 31 2011
A fun adventure in a gorgeous place with interesting people.

  Sweet As !!!   Dec 13 2011

Review by JP Poole (Bristol, United Kingdom) for Rimu Nov 21 2011
The title of the review says it all, day after amazing day, we roamed all over the South Island, doing fantastic walks, staying in lovely remote lodges and seeing the most stunning sights possible. As great as Queenstown was, I found myself keen to get out of the big town and back to the little lodges and huts. New Zealand is an amazing country that I will come back to many times again in the future!!!

  Surpassed my expectations!   Dec 13 2011

Review by Chris Baca (Pacific Grove, California, United States) for Rimu Nov 14 2011
I've been hoping to travel to New Zealand for years, and was beyond excited when I finally booked the trip to make it happen. I normally avoid tours, as I don't care to be bounded to a group of strangers and committed to someone else's agenda. I prefer the freedom of doing it on my own. However, I knew that this wouldn't be the most efficient way to experience New Zealand in just two weeks time. Finding Active New Zealand was just what I wanted for my holiday and am pleased to report it surpassed my expectations. We had a wonderful group of people that liked to laugh, didn't complain and went with the flow. We stayed in charming places with surprising views. The food was fantastic - Nat was an excellent cook and fed us well. We feasted on venison, lamb, steaks, salmon, and more. The activities were perfect. My favorite days were kayaking in Milford Sound and hiking in Mount Cook National Park. The views were amazing and I felt so accomplished after. Some days we needed a little nudge to get out there (like a rainy bike ride), but we were all so happy and proud when we finished. Granted, we did drive a lot, but it is impossible to visit the number of places in the amount of time we had without doing so. Our trip was perfect and it wouldn't have happened without our fantastic guides, Liz and Nat. They, without a doubt, gave us an awesome trip of a lifetime. I would return to one of their trips in a heartbeat.

  Awesome trip   Dec 9 2011

Review by Honora Bauman (Brooklyn, New York, United States) for Rimu Nov 21 2011
Wow! The Rimu took us to so many incredible locations. I loved that it was such a high energy trip. Our guides worked super hard to make it special and the food was really impressive. And we couldn't have had a better group of like minded, energetic and funny travellers. Altogether a wonderful vacation.

  Active New Zealand Rimu- Amazing!   Dec 9 2011

Review by Robert Tung (St Louis, Missouri, United States) for Rimu Nov 21 2011
I wouldn't have done the South Island any other way. The people on the trip were all great fun, and everybody got on really well - I feel like even after just two weeks, we were all best friends. Guides Mike and Jacs took us to some amazing places, and were all around fantastic leaders. Funny, incredibly knowledgeable, interesting, helpful, and great chefs to top it off! They were really good about not leaving anybody behind the rest of the group, and making sure everyone was feeling and doing alright on the more strenuous tramps. At the same time, they were very encouraging and pushed everyone to do their best. It's really quite difficult to explain in words how unbelievable this trip was!

  What a celebration   Dec 5 2011

Review by Candice Russell (Walton, New York, United States) for Rimu Nov 7 2011
In the spring our daughter received her PHD and we promised her a trip to celebrate. At her request for an adventure we chose Active Adventures and off we went to New Zealand for some mother/daughter bonding. From the first site of the mountains in the distance to the view from the mountaintop in the Mount Cook National Park we were in awe of the majesty of New Zealand. Each day brought more challenges and more and more beauty and of course more adventure. The biking, the kayaking, the climbing and the wonderful care of our most gracious and competent guides, Ben and Cristina made this more than just a graduation gift but an adventure of a lifetime filled with memories that we never anticipated we would find on the other side of the world.

  Active New Zealand far exceeded my expectations   Nov 30 2011

Review by Lisa Russell (Buffalo, New York, United States) for Rimu Nov 7 2011
I was looking for an exciting outdoor adventure trip. Active New Zealand far exceeded my expectations allowing us adrenaline rushing adventures each day as we experienced first hand the magnificent beauty New Zealand has to offer!

  Easily among the best trips I have ever made!   Nov 29 2011

Review by Wulf Franke (Haar, Bavaria, Germany) for Rimu Oct 31 2011
Amazing.

  The best way to experience New Zealand   Nov 29 2011

Review by Alexis Luciano (Maple Shade, New Jersey, United States) for Rimu Oct 31 2011
I can’t thank you guys enough for first… just creating the Rimu trip. It’s an unbelievable adventure and, in my humble opinion, the very best way to experience the beautiful South Island of New Zealand. Second, your execution of the trip was second to none. My husband and I had a few special circumstances surrounding our Rimu: we had some bad weather at home that caused us to get in to NZ a day and a half late and… it was our honeymoon! The Active NZ crew was amazing the face of delay (getting us there, greeting us with an amazing welcome at the airport – complete with confetti and, I’ll admit, tears of joy from me! – and reuniting us with our bags and getting us into the trip and the group as though we never missed anything), and gave the trip several special “honeymoon” touches. Our guides, Lina and Sarah (and Kate on her training trip) were top-notch. They were funny, engaging, so knowledgeable… it was a pleasure to spend two weeks with them. The Rimu allowed us to experience your magnificent country as it was meant to be: we were care-free, we learned and did so much, we met beautiful people, we ate like kings and queens, we caught rugby fever… I could go on for hours. :) I’ll stop rambling and end with this: because of our trip with Active, we would most definitely come back to Aotearoa, and would also most definitely book another trip with Active (in NZ or elsewhere). Sweet as.

  How to have great time on the South Island   Nov 28 2011

Review by Bruce Wheaton (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada) for Rimu Oct 17 2011
Amanda and Dan were great. Very organized, knowledgeable and flexible to cope with the needs and wishes of a very diverse group. We have done many simliar group trips; Active New Zealand with Dan and Amanda was by far the best. I highly recommend to anyone wanting see all the South Island has to offer, getting off the beaten track.

  Adventures Beyond My Expectations   Nov 24 2011

Review by Kris Donna Mack (Camarillo, California, United States) for Rimu Nov 7 2011
Since I have been back I have shared with others the pristine beauty of New Zealand. It's beauty is hard to put into words. Also the warm friendships we made were of precious value to my husband and myself. Our guides were amazing and encouraged all of us to challenge ourselves physically. I discovered my physical strength,endurance and stamina.

  New Zealand is even more gorgeous than I imagined.   Nov 24 2011

Review by Irene Osterman (Alexandria, Virginia, United States) for Rimu Nov 7 2011
I have wanted to go to New Zealand all my life and the Rimu trip was the fulfillment of a dream. Our guides were wonderful. They cooked tasty meals for us, were informative, caring and fun. Traveling in a small group was pleasurable.

  I would recommend this trip to anyone!   Nov 18 2011

Review by Rick Fuhrman (North Carolina, United States) for Rimu Oct 31 2011
Upon return I couldn't stop talking about how great the trip was. I will be signing up for another Active trip next year! Thanks again. Rick, NC.

  Best organised group tour I've ever been on!   Nov 12 2011

Review by Liz George (Noranda, Western Australia, Australia) for Rimu Oct 17 2011
This Rimu trip was the best choice (although not originally my first choice - I had wanted to go on the Winter Rimu). I really enjoyed the scenery, accommodations, company and especially the guides they were awesome! Dan and Amanda (our super guides) were so well organised and handled all situations with aplomb (even when we had a difficult member of the group!). Every day on this trip was a special day, just when you think you can't go "Wow, look at that - isn't that spectacular!" any more you walk or drive around the corner and there it is again... another spectacular scene! I was completely blown away with the beautiful South Island scenery and have been telling everyone at home that they HAVE to vist the South Island soon! I took so many photos (over 1000!) and have been showing them off ever since getting back. As for Active NZ and their Rimu tour... I have only praise and love for the team! Our guides, Dan and Amanda are worth their weight in gold!! Amanda can cook up a storm (even with tofu!) and Dan's local knowledge was invaluable. Thank you both so much! I would recommend this tour to anyone the activities were everything I expected and more. The hiking was easier than I expected but still threw a little challange every now and then. I especially loved the kayaking both on Okarito Lagoon and especially on Milford Sound - we had the BEST weather and the best experiences. Thanks again Active NZ and especially Dan and Amanda, I will be recommending your company and tours to everyone and I will definitely be back for more!

  What happens on the Rimu, stays on the Rimu   Nov 11 2011

Review by Dusty Black (Elko, United States) for Rimu Oct 17 2011
Dan was Great. Amanda, eh, she was alright (just kidding Amanda). Both were a lot of fun. They were very knowledgeable about the Culture, Flora, Fauna, and History of the areas we visited. They really encouraged everyone to have fun, maybe a little too much fun. The areas we visited were amazing. I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone.

  Life doesn't get any better than this.   Oct 30 2011

Review by Kathryn Billing (Redruth, Cornwall, United Kingdom) for Rimu Oct 3 2011
New Zealand is well known for being the most stunning place in the world with views and adventures which are beyond the imagination or belief. What is not known is the truly amazing way you can experience this; the Active New Zealand team of Mike and Jaclyn with their immense knowledge and superb sense of humour, fun and adventure made this the most awesome trip of a lifetime and all this whilst being provided with the most exquisite culinary 5 star quality delights. AWESOME!

  One trip to rule them all   Jun 14 2011

Review by Jeff Davis (Long Beach, California, United States) for Rimu May 2 2011
We wanted an adventure for our Honeymoon, see things and experience a side of New Zealand that we would never forget. Squeeze in some "first time" experiences. The Rimu trip was pricy for us to kick off our wedding but well worth it. I think we have only a small number of friends that could handle the activity of the Rimu tour. Unfortunately, cause I think everyone should experience it. We miss New Zealand, we miss you guys. Thank you very much for the wonderful trip.

  Craziest Adventure of My Life   May 28 2011

Review by Kathleen Meek (Long Beach, California, United States) for Rimu May 2 2011
The Rimu Active New Zealand trip my fiance and I took for our honeymoon was by far the craziest, coolest, something-new-everyday adventure I've ever been on in my life. We would highly recommend it to anyone who wants the experience of a lifetime in the great outdoors!

  A to Z with Active New Zealand   May 18 2011

Review by Shelley Goldberg (W Bloomfield, Michigan, United States) for Rimu Feb 14 2011
An amazing break conceived, designed especially for galavanting happily in jaunty kayaks, loping mountains nestled over panoramic, quiet rustic scenery, trekking under viaducts with eXceptional, youthful, zestful GUIDES!

  New Zealand is O for Awesome!   May 9 2011

Review by Terry McLaughlin (Naperville, Illinois, United States) for Rimu Apr 18 2011
I was anticipating that my trip to New Zealand would be the trip of a lifetime, but it ended up even better than I could have imagined! From getting to know all of the facts about New Zealand, its wildlife, the places, my guide Liz and the other travelers, this trip was perfect! I highly recommend the Rimu trip to anyone looking to get out for a couple of weeks and enjoy life.

  Wow! This trip restored our souls.   May 8 2011

Review by Joy Errey (Cobrico, Victoria, Australia) for Rimu Mar 21 2011
Professional and personal guides. Unique accomodation. Awesome side tours. Your professionalism with advice prior to joining the tour whilst under duress after the earthquakes is to be commended. Congratulations on an excellent format. This trip restored our souls. We will be back to do the North Island and some more kayaking and hiking in the next twelve months.

  One of my best trips.   May 3 2011

Review by Katy Ghiasi (New Brighton, Minnesota, United States) for Rimu Apr 4 2011
The Rimu trip with Active New Zealand has been one of my best trips. It was the best way to see and experience the natural beauty of New Zealand. From the well-planned itinerary to the guides, lodging and food -- every day was different and very special. I am very happy that I did this, and next time I will be back with my husband!

  Rimu exceeded expectations   Apr 27 2011

Review by Alex McLeod (Crieff, Perthshire, Scotland, United Kingdom) for Rimu Feb 28 2011
Great guides. Excellent trip good value and good service.

  I discovered what I was really made of.   Apr 27 2011

Review by Lore Lis (Sunland Ca., California, United States) for Rimu Mar 28 2011
It was all about my husband Steve celebrating his "50th " year. What "I" walked away with, was more than anything I could have imagined, or dared to dream for him and for me. I was definitely the weakest link (physical ability wise)....but I gained more strength, both emotionally and physically as I discovered what I was really made of. The three day backpack in Nelson Lakes was a real life changer for me. I bared my soul and totally trusted my guide ,Lina, with details no one should have to carry. She not only gave me the encouragement I needed to complete the hike, but I found a kindred spirit. With her direction and encouragement, I not only made it to Lakehead Hut, but had the courage to hike the next day trusting her to get me out safely. She never sugar coated what it would take to hike out. She just simply told me I could do it. It wasn't easy to face my fears of heights and swing bridges but I did it.....and I am all the better for having done it. In the, almost, 19 years of marriage to my husband, I have never heard him be so silent and let someone else lead the way. Ha Ha..... It was a privilege denied many. That can be said for the whole trip. Day after day, I was met with challenges, some I powered thru and others I didn't quite make it, but with Nat and Lina there to guide my steps and call me THEIR hero made every day one to celebrate. So all this to say.....maybe this trip was for Steve's 50th, but it ended up being much more. It was for me to celebrate myself too. That I am capable of doing a lot of things I was too scared to even try and to have fun doing them. This was absolutely the trip of My lifetime. One I will carry with me all the days of my life. I will always have a soft spot for NZ and hope to return there someday. Hopefully in better shape than I left it.....ha ha... My greatest challenge since returning home has been to keep the spirit of NZ and all the people I shared it with. Life, back home, tends to lend itself to being too busy and not taking time to just be. When I need a dose of, real, reality I close my eyes and hear the words and laughter of all those friends I made on that 2 week journey. Nelson Lakes, the bonfire and stories in Okarito, the jet boat ride, the para-gliding, the kayaking in Milford Sound, and my personal favorite, Braemar Station. Sitting by the fire and sharing..... So thanks Active NZ for putting the right combination of activities together combined with "THE BEST" guides. Our trip wouldn't have been the same without the chemistry of those two. They were an awesome team. Nat could definitely have a second career as a cook. She is beyond talented not only in the kitchen, but has a way with people. Her energy and wisdom are far beyond her years. Her smile in the mornings and cheerfulness throughout the day just made the journey sweeter. As for Lina, she is a "Gift" . Not just to me, but to all the people who's life she touches are richer for having known her. She carries strength and wisdom and a wicked sense of humor. I love her laugh. I am definitely a better person for having met her. So now that my novel is done, I will say one more time how very much I treasured every moment of my husband's 50th year celebration. SWEET AS! Cheers, Lore Lis California, USA

  The second best idea I've ever had!   Apr 27 2011

Review by Steve Lis (Sunland Ca., California, United States) for Rimu Mar 28 2011
I first learned about Active N.Z. in 2004. The verbal referral l I kept in my mind since then. When my wife asked me what I wanted to do for my 50th, I said Active New Zealand!! The second best idea I've ever had! (The first was to marry my wife.) Thanks for a wonderful time!

  New Zealand - Just Get There!   Apr 22 2011

Review by Jamie Behringer (Cincinnati, Ohio, United States) for Rimu Mar 7 2011
I've been back in the US for about a month and my mind always seems to drift back to my two weeks in NZ with Active. I think about the beauty of the country (everywhere you look you want to snap a picture), the awesome people that I met in my group and on my hikes and the fact that I challenged myself several times and have grown so much through those experiences. I Loved it!! It took me several years and by several I mean seven, to get to New Zealand and it didn't dissapoint. The trip is very active, as you're constantly on the go whether its hiking, kayaking, cycling, even perusing the quaintest of towns and yet there is enough rest time worked in that it still feels like a vacation. I recommend this trip to everyone I talk to.

  Rimu Trip for my 50th Birthday   Apr 19 2011

Review by Shelli Main (Santa Rosa, California, United States) for Rimu Mar 21 2011
What a fantastic way to celebrate my milestone of turning the big "50"! My husband Rob and I love to plan trips loaded with adventure. We discovered Active New Zealand on the internet and quickly made up our minds that this was the trip for us. What a fantastic decision! We made fast friends with our guides and the other 12 people on the trip. Everyday brought new beauty, new adventure, great food, and loads of fun. Our bungy jump off the Kawarau bridge on April Fool's Day was such a highlight as we talked 8 out of 14 in our group to do it. That is a memory for my 50th for sure! We will definitely do another trip with "Active" because we could not have been taken care of better nor covered all the ground that we did without this incredible guided tour and its guides, Gemma and Elle!

  Truly the trip of a lifetime!   Apr 18 2011

Review by Kristin Fahy (Sauquoit, New York, United States) for Rimu Mar 28 2011
This trip, this tour, these guides, far exceeded any hope I dreamed this experience might be. Every detail was taken care of and everything exceeded expectations. Even if weather or something else required a change in plans (which was very infrequent) there was always an excellent and exciting back up plan. I will cherish this trip all my life!

  An active trip that hit most of the areas we wanted to see   Apr 12 2011

Review by Bob Clinton (Sydenham, Ontario, Canada) for Rimu Mar 7 2011
The 14 day RIMU trip was a wonderful introduction to the diversity of the south island of NZ. The activities kept you engaged and allowed you to connect with the essence of the country.

  Nat and the Duck   Apr 12 2011

Review by Craig Libler (Reno, Nevada, United States) for Rimu Feb 28 2011
It is so rare in life where something you have built up in your mind for for years actually exceeds the lofty expectations that you had set. Your Rimu trip did exactly that! The combination of unparalleled, awe-inspiring natural beauty joined with guides who brought out the most in what NZ had to offer, made for memories I will treasure for a lifetime.

  Incredible!   Apr 12 2011

Review by Shannon Libler (Reno, Nevada, United States) for Rimu Feb 28 2011
The Rimu tour was incredible. Every day a new adventure with the best guides and new friends. I would recommend this trip to anyone who likes to be active, have fun and experience experience the most beautiful sites of New Zealand.

  Every day a great adventure   Apr 1 2011

Review by Betty Kareen (Deerfield, Wisconsin, United States) for Rimu Feb 21 2011
The way I can describe this trip for me is that every day was a great adventure. We went so many different places and did such a variety of activities that I love. Every day when I woke up, I wondered what wonderment I would be in for today. Even on the days when it rained, we did some alternate activity that was new.

  Trip of a lifetime - our 3rd so far!   Mar 28 2011

Review by Chris Idle (Rugby, Warwickshire, United Kingdom) for Rimu Feb 14 2011
Awesome - definitely Trip of a lifetime - our 3rd so far! Each better than the last and we still have to visit North Island! However, this is the only trip we have done where we will come back to some of the places we visited.

  Outstanding in all respects.   Mar 27 2011

Review by Jim Davey (Cary, North Carolina, United States) for Rimu Feb 28 2011
Thank goodness I didn't listen to my orthopedic who advised me against taking the Rimu trip because of my arthritic knee - and perhaps my age (75). Had a fantastic time because of the support I received from our trip leaders, Dan T and Natalie, and members of the group. Your country is beautiful and so are your people. Definitely one of my most favorite adventure trips, and I've been to the Himalayas, Kenya, South Africa, Botswana, etc.

  A trip full of adventures   Mar 23 2011

Review by Deb Alley (Bloomington, Illinois, United States) for Rimu Feb 28 2011
This was the best trip I've ever taken - a chance to experience a new adventure every day. New Zealand is outrageously beautiful and its people are warm and welcoming. The Rimu tour offers the opportunity to experience so many of the South Island's natural wonders with knowledgeable and charming guides. The tour really is "active" with a combination of hiking, kayaking and biking. The activities were often challenging but always fun, and they have given me great stories to bring back - of heights scaled and rivers crossed. I was only sorry to see the trip end and to head for home.

  The whole trip was a highlight   Mar 23 2011

Review by Beth Campbell (Bloomington, Illinois, United States) for Rimu Feb 28 2011
Really wonderful. We had good experiences with office staff and GREAT experiences with our guides.

  Pushing the limits   Mar 21 2011

Review by Helen Bodkin (Redmond, Washington, United States) for Rimu Feb 28 2011
The RIMU trip I took was fantastic. The guides were great and the people I travelled with couldn't have been nicer. I'm a day hiker, so I found the 3 day backpack very challenging, but when we got to the top, my sense of accomplishment couldn't have felt any better. The rain made it even more challenging, but that night and the following day were gorgeous. The rest of the travel, hiking, biking and kayaking were very managable and enjoyable. New Zealand is a very beautiful and I really felt I got to see some of the most beautiful places on the S Island. Your organization is to be commended for taking a cream puff like me and helping me push to my limit! Thanks, so much.

  Every aspect of the trip had been thought of and covered.   Mar 20 2011

Review by Courtney Danaraj (Redmond, Washington, United States) for Rimu Feb 28 2011
The Rimu trip is one that will challenge you physically, mentally and emotionally, and when you've completed the trip, you'll be refreshed and ready to take on the world.

  Wished I Could Have Stayed Longer   Mar 19 2011

Review by Michelle Frantzen (Catharpin, Virginia, United States) for Rimu Feb 21 2011
I loved the trip, I only wish that we could have stayed longer. There were certain places that were great in the sunshine, however I know it would have been different in the rain and visa versa. Not only that, I'd love to have seen more places, every hour you drive you enter into a new experience, it was a great trip, one I recommend to anyone and will remember my entire life.

  Fully enjoyed every moment of it.   Mar 18 2011

Review by Shannon Bartch (San Francisco, California, United States) for Rimu Feb 28 2011
New Zealand is an amazing country and my trip with ACTIVE was an incredible experience. I did not want it to end!

  The trip was wonderful   Mar 17 2011

Review by Laurie Young (Decatur, Michigan, United States) for Rimu Feb 21 2011
Loved it! Guides were fabulous (Kate and Ben) and the meals they cooked were outstanding and an unexpected bonus.

  This was a truly great trip.   Mar 14 2011

Review by Jenny Wada (Honolulu, Hawaii, United States) for Rimu Feb 14 2011
I had a fabulous time! Our group of 10 was a great mix. Liz and Sara were professional, fun, full of information and relaxed. I felt safe and taken care of. Liz and Sara took care of everything and we never had to worry about anything, except being active, having fun, great conversations, eating and drinking. I would like to move to New Zealand. The country and people were so appealing.

  In a sentence, RIMU was the trip of a lifetime!!   Mar 14 2011

Review by Sam Smith (La Jolla, California, United States) for Rimu Jan 24 2011
I had such a great time. Jordan and Gwyneth could not have been more accommodating. They both did such a great job in making sure that myself(and everyone else for that matter) were happy during each moment of our adventure. I really enjoyed the 3-day hike in the Nelson Lakes area, the rain forest hike that Jordan arranged when our Franz-Josef trip was cancelled (due to poor weather), checking out the stars at the sheep ranch, having a meat pie and slamming Tim-Tams with Jords and "G". You know what?? The list goes on, and on, and on!! I'll be back one day. Not sure if I will do a formal tour or just take some time and go tramping and see how many of the 900 tramping huts in New Zealand I can visit. Please save a Speight's or 2 for me!! All the best and thanks once again!! Sam Smith

  Extreme Hiking for the Older Traveler   Mar 13 2011

Review by Margaret Gascoigne (Los Angeles, California, United States) for Rimu Feb 14 2011
Our group included three members who will not be seeing 60 again (or even 65) but who participated in some of the most strenuous parts of the trip. If you are fit and prepare yourself with a training regimen (Active NZ has one), you should treat yourself to the really active trip. And the bonus is the places you stay (no motels except in Queenstown) and the home-cooked meals prepared by your guides.

  Sweet As...   Mar 9 2011

Review by Roger Sievers (Reston, Virginia, United States) for Rimu Feb 7 2011
I had what one of the best times of my life on the Rimu trip. This was due to our tour guides, the composition of the group -- Amis, Aussies, Brits, and Canadians --the balance of activities, and wonderful weather. I particularly enjoyed the two-day overnights at the sheep station and Okarito and not having to think about where to stay, what to eat, etc. After about a week on the tour, I lost track of days of the week, and did not feel compelled to find out. I and three others -- all age 60 or more -- participated in the backpacking option, while the younger members of our tour participated in the mountain biking option. I was especially pleased that we were able to tramp (Kiwi for hike) the Angelus Circuit, which really does feature a 1,000 meter climb on day 2 and several long rock scrambles. Thanks in large measure to the weather, the views were outstanding, especially those in hiking along the crest on day 3.

  Fantastic. Extremely well-organized.   Mar 7 2011

Review by Lisa Brath (Richmond, Virginia, United States) for Rimu Dec 27 2010
I knew by the second day when my stomach already hurt from laughing so much that this would be an amazing trip. I expected/hoped to see beautiful sites, do some cool things and come back with some great memories. Who knew I'd be so lucky to also come back with some new friends. Thanks for a truly incredible experience!

  The guides were exceptional.   Mar 7 2011

Review by Chris Carter (Towradgi, New South Wales, Australia) for Rimu Feb 14 2011
Fantastic! NZ, the trip, guides and the group were great. The trip was very professional, well organised and enjoyable. Overall, very good experience that I would recommend.

  The trip had a wonderful down home feel.   Mar 6 2011

Review by Andrea Purdon (Grand Island, Florida, United States) for Rimu Jan 31 2011
My husband booked the trip. I didn't look seriously at the trip until a few days before we left when I went looking for the packing list. We were traveling with our friends and they and my husband had made the plans and signed up for the three day backpack. (My husband promised me that my pack would weigh 25 pounds or less. Lol.) I realized that I might be in over my head as I went through the site. Add to that my restricted dietary requirements and I was sure the trip was going to be a disaster. (PS. I am 52. ) Our Rimu trip started with the backpack first. With extra food, I could barely lift my backpack to move it, much less carry it. (Good thing I work out ....) By dinner that night I had made it through two days and knew that Daniel was going to safely feed me. This is no easy feat. I have been to many 4-5 stars restaurants that made me ill. The second day my husbands pack was at least five pounds heavier and I actually enjoyed first half of the hike. Did I mention the bee sting? Why does the person most likely to have a problem get stung? Right through the sock. Guide Gemma was right there with me and stuck to me like glue until we knew I was ok. When we got to the "wee" hill the weather got a"wee" bad. Ok straight up hill and pouring rain and hurricane winds. (Did I mention I am from Florida...no hills, but familiar with hurricane force winds...) I found out that you are serious about rain gear in NZ, and that mine was sadly ineffective. I was almost at the top and got blown over cutting my shin, of course just over the bee sting... Gemma was right there with us, calm and unruffled talking us up. Did I mention she was carrying her pack and the pack of another woman. Lashed together. In the rain and wind on the rocky, steep hill. Needless to say this was the worst and in a weird way best part of the trip. When challenged it is always amazing what inner strength and resilience you have. I got to the top cold, wet and hurt and had a meltdown. But for the rest of the trip everything that appeared difficult, or I would have been anxious about doing (I haven't ridden a bike in 20 years....) was cake. We had a fabulous time. Your guides are organized, prepared, hardworking, and exceptionally well trained. We had an awesome group of interesting people from all over the world. The trip had a wonderful down home feel. By the time we left we were truly in love with your beautiful country and warm friendly people.

  WOW!   Mar 6 2011

Review by Jennifer Van Houten (Portland, Oregon, United States) for Rimu Feb 14 2011
Words cannot truly convey what an amazing place New Zealand is and how well Active New Zealand knows how to share it! Our guides were not only knowledgeable about many aspects of the history, geology, and wildlife, but brought elements of fun and adventure to every day. Thank you so much for sharing such a beautiful place!

  The trip was like Christmas when you were a kid.   Mar 5 2011

Review by David Smith (Swansea, Illinois, United States) for Rimu Feb 14 2011
Each day was like opening a new present under the Christmas tree. Each day was just as exciting and fun and wonderful as the day before. When Ii went to bed, I just couldn't wait for the next morning - wondering what wonderful site or activity I would be experiencing.

  Memories for years to come   Feb 27 2011

Review by Susan Getman (Framingham , Massachusetts, United States) for Rimu Feb 7 2011
This was a long-awaited trip to New Zealand, an adventure dreamt of but one that had been relegated to the travel books in the midst of a too-busy life. ACTIVE New Zealand trumped all those travel books. The 2 week RIMU trip was just awesome; being in the midst of such magical beauty in the forests and fjiords, beholding such silent, expansive majesty from atop ridge lines was life changing. The guides were fun, informative, responsive and all around fantastic and our tour group was simply the best ever!! Thanks you for making a "dream come true!"

  Amped for New Zealand   Feb 25 2011

Review by John Adams (Grosse Point Shores, Michigan, United States) for Rimu Jan 24 2011
The sunset over Mt Cook providing a rainbow of colors as we sat at the picnic table enjoying another home cooked meal by Gwyneth and Jordon. The beautiful lake in the foreground would be enough to make the setting, but the mountain view put it over the top. Not another person was anywhere to be seen. Welcome to Active New Zealand. Forget about cookie cutter resorts and enjoy unique locations and friendly and attentive personal service.

  Simply awesome!   Feb 22 2011

Review by Andy Stoneman (Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom) for Rimu Jan 10 2011
I combined Active New Zealand's five day Kauri adventure on the North Island with their fourteen day Rimu tour of the South Island and threw in a few cities of my own (Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington). The result was simply awesome! Biking on the trails through Whakarewarewa forest and donning a wet suit, helmet and headlamp to explore an underground rivers running through the Waitomo Caves have to be two of my favourites from the North Island. On the South Island, the three-day St Angelus hike was tough but hugely rewarding. The first day was a fairly flat hike along the shore of the lake to Lake Head Hut where we stayed the night. We rose at first light (around 5am) and were on our way after breakfast. Wading through a couple of rivers before a fairly relentless four hour uphill trek until we reached our lunch spot. After lunch it got steeper and we were forced to scramble over rocks and scree for another four hours before we arrived at a beautiful ice cold lake near the summit. As we collapsed exhausted in to St Angelus hut our guide produced a bottle of champagne from his rucksack and we congratulated ourselves on making it this far. But there was more to come. We breakfasted and were on our way to the summit by 7:15am the following morning. It was a tough climb, almost vertical in places, until we reached the ridge-line and what our guide called the 'technical' part of the hike – narrow pathways with almost sheer drops! As we reached the valley the sense of accomplishment was amazing and we celebrated that evening with fish and chips and a few beers! The Mueller hike and the views of Mount Cook (where Sir Edmund Hilary trained before he conquered Everest) were also spectacular - and a great place to take some photos. I met some really great people on both of the tours and our guides worked really hard to ensure everyone had a fantastic time. This is one holiday I will be talking about for sometime to come!

  The new word - Awesome   Feb 20 2011

Review by Petr Zaychenko (Moscow, Moscow, Russian Federation) for Rimu Jan 24 2011
I've learned a new word that reflects my RIMU trip in the beginning 2011 - Awesome! -Petr

  Gwyneth and Jords made it the best ever!!   Feb 13 2011

Review by John Brill (Durango, Colorado, United States) for Rimu Jan 24 2011
Aotearoa is truly a magical kingdom of rugged glacier scarring and pristine rainforest landscapes. Where else in the world can you photograph a palm tree and a glacier in the same frame?!? We had a Yellow-Eyed Penguin say hello after retreating from an ancient fern like tramp in the UNESCO forest. You feel so alive with the constant weather changes and clean mountain air. People are so friendly and the wildlife is so unique. The guides make the trip fun by relaying the kiwi culture and bringing the native Maori customs to life. A perfect blend of photography and back country exploring. John Brill, Durango, Colorado,USA

  It was just the right mix of activity and free time.   Feb 13 2011

Review by Elaine Newman (Calgary, Alberta, Canada) for Rimu Jan 17 2011
What an amazing way to see such a beautiful country. The scenery we saw, the places we stayed and the things we did were so enjoyable. Our guides were very knowledgeable, personable and supportive. Thanks Lauren & Amanda. Hope to see you both again soon.

  New Zealand Swan Dive   Feb 13 2011

Review by Peggy Mendes-Stern (Cleveland Heights, Ohio, United States) for Rimu Jan 17 2011
After about a 20 second rethink, I made the decision to go for it. It's now or never Peggy. The Bungy Jump. Simple instructions - do your best swan dive. So I did, and it was the most exhilarating feeling - to be flying through the air - blue water rushing up to you - wind in your face - too scared to even close my eyes - and then it's over! I can't wait to do it again! This is my third trip with Active. Each one has been unique and geared to that country's geology, flora, fauna and people. I have learned so much and have had experiences I will never forget and memories to last a lifetime - until my next trip to somewhere vastly different and spectacular. Active is a well oiled adventure firm which I would highly recommend to anyone in search of going someplace and doing things that one could never do where they live. Go for it.

  An outstanding trip, well organized and run.   Feb 12 2011

Review by Douglas Smith (Rochester, New York, United States) for Rimu Jan 17 2011
A wonderful sampling of the active adventures offered by the South Island. We had mostly great weather. The one very rainy day (6 inches on the Routeburn Track) gave us great views of waterfalls along the road and a taste of NZ rainfall.

  Just the right amount of everything!   Feb 12 2011

Review by Jane Campbell (Park City, Utah, United States) for Rimu Jan 3 2011
Kayking, hiking and biking is the perfect way to see New Zealand. I highly recommend this trip. We met new friends and the guides were awesome.

  Everyday was different and equally rated   Feb 9 2011

Review by Gillian Webster (Aitkenvale, Queensland, Australia) for Rimu Jan 3 2011
A very well-organised trip with attention to detail. Covered a wide area of NZ South Island allowing for the holiday maker to appreciate the diversity of the country.

  Best organized trip that we have ever been on.   Feb 8 2011

Review by Ross Uibel (Mountain View, Alberta, Canada) for Rimu Jan 10 2011
Our trip was awesome. It was the best organized trip that we have ever been on. The itinery was great, the guides, Daniel S. and Cam, were the best and the rest of the group were great.

  This trip exceeded my every expectation!   Feb 8 2011

Review by Lorna Uibel (Mountain View, Alberta, Canada) for Rimu Jan 10 2011
When I was first looking to book a trip to New Zealand, I requested a brochure from Active NZ from your website. Imagine my surprise when I received a very friendly phone call the next day verifying my request and promising that my brochure would arrive very soon. The brochure arrived, and we decided on a trip, but had to postpone it for a year. Occasionally I would get a call from Active NZ just checking how our plans were coming along...these calls were very helpful in reminding me how much I wanted a trip to NZ, and the friendliness just encouraged me all the more! In Feb. of 2010, I finally booked our trip, printed out all the information and started getting ready. Because all of my interactions were so positive, and your website and the OBI program are so fantastic, I expected that the trip would be every bit as well run. Wellll... it was even better than I had hoped! Cam and Dan were so focused on giving us a good experience. Their sharing of responsibilities was extremely effective, and we felt like royalty in their care. They were always busy making sure that everything was ready and wonderful for us. All we had to worry about was enjoying the beautiful hikes, the delicious food, the lovely accommodations (some more lovely than others, but all very interesting!) and having a good time with our group. I especially enjoyed the interaction that our group had with both Cam and Dan. They are both very personable and fun. I enjoyed their stories as well their knowledge of the areas we visited. I would recommend this trip to anyone who loves getting out and enjoying the beauty of nature, and also likes adventure and getting the most out of visiting an area, all the while with someone else doing the planning, scheduling and WORK! Oh... did I say that I loved this trip???

  Trip of Lifetime   Feb 5 2011

Review by Sharon Su (Providence, Rhode Island, United States) for Rimu Oct 25 2010
I was blessed with a wonderful group of travellers who enjoyed each others' company and worked to get to know one another. I was also blessed with two fantastic guides - Lina and Sarah. I couldn't have asked for better guides, who are also wonderful individuals. Finally, I was blessed with fantastic weather during my 2 weeks. What more could you ask for? All the reviews were wonderful, but I will admit, they did not do justice to my trip.

  Live Your Dream   Jan 29 2011

Review by Karen Bleakley (brookeville, Maryland, United States) for Rimu Dec 27 2010
This trip was the trip of a lifetime! I wish I could explain in words how wonderful this trip was! How wonderful the New Zealand people are! How awesome your guides were! How fun the activities were! I've traveled to some beautiful places and this trip was unforgettable! Don't Miss Out! Take this trip! Lina & Alexis (our guides), thank you for making this trip unforgettable!

  Amazing   Jan 29 2011

Review by Tony Buffett (Yamanto, Queensland, Australia) for Rimu Jan 3 2011
I have to say the trip was amazing. I knew it was going to be a trip that would enable me to see things that would astound me but it far exceeded my expectations. From the first meeting with Tim and Louise in the foyer of the Holiday Inn until we were dropped off 14 days later I was awe struck with not only the beautiful country but the hospitality afforded to us no matter where we went. Tim's dry humour was something I did really enjoy and his knowledge enabled me to get an appreciation of the region we were travelling in. Louise was sensational and her happy smiling face always made me smile, she also is a wizard with all things geological and this I found most beneficial. The pair of them should be commended for their delivery of a tour that impressed someone who is not easily impressed. I have to say a special mention to Adrianna from Sea Kayak Adventures who was truly a wonderful warm soul and made us feel so welcome. The Marlborough Sound paddle was a highlight and she made the whole experience brilliant. There is not enough space here to enable me to note every highlight of the trip but suffice to say I will recommend it to everyone whose ear I can twist telling them about the trip. Well done on an experience I shall never forget.

  Good office support and outstanding trip and guides.   Jan 28 2011

Review by Jacqueline Rueping (Holland Landing, Ontario, Canada) for Rimu Jan 10 2011
Fabulous and varied activities between the hiking, biking and kayaking. The guides were knowledgeable, the food was to die for, and of course, the scenery in New Zealand is spectacular!

  Fantastic company.   Jan 26 2011

Review by Laura Marshall (Woodthorpe, Nottingham, United Kingdom) for Rimu Jan 3 2011
Operated very efficiently from day 1. I feel that it may be worth considering a look at the wording used to describe the nelson lakes hike. Some members of our group struggled considerably with this and although I loved it and had no problems, it was considerably harder than I expected. It is possibly due to differences in hiking in NZ, however at times I felt as though I was 'rock climbing'!!

  It's not a matter of "if" we will go back but WHEN!   Jan 21 2011

Review by Shelley Knowlson (Richmond, Virginia, United States) for Rimu Dec 27 2010
This trip and country is so incredible, it's not a matter of "if" we will go back but WHEN! Our guide (Liz) and chef (Iron Kate) put the explanation mark on this unbelievable experience. The RIMU thoroughly introduced us to the wild and amazing south island and opened our eyes to endless possibilities that await our return for further exploration.

  Well worth the money!   Jan 18 2011

Review by Ranjini Danaraj (Redmond, Washington, United States) for Rimu Dec 20 2010
The places you go, how you get there, what you eat along the way, where you stay, and what you do, make this trip absolutely worth it. Active New Zealand and our awesome guides, Ken and Sarah, made this a truly wonderful experience...

  Really made it feel like a vacation.   Jan 17 2011

Review by Phillip Connell (Sartell, Minnesota, United States) for Rimu Dec 27 2010
I thought they did a very good job. The guides were very prepared and organized for anything that could-of happened. Everything they did, they really made it feel like a vacation.

  Not only did we have fun but we got to learn something   Jan 17 2011

Review by Linda Connell (Sartell, Minnesota, United States) for Rimu Dec 27 2010
Liz and Kate were wonderful guides and fun to be with. They brought so much positive energy in the group even when we had many days of rain. They really made our trip fun. I would highly recommend them to be your guides. Seeing the beauty of your country in a picture doesn't do it justice. Only tell people that you have to go and see it.

  Trip of a lifetime   Jan 15 2011

Review by Megan Connell (Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States) for Rimu Dec 27 2010
This was the most amazing trip I have ever been on. It has to be pretty special when it rains for a large majority of the trip and you still come out loving it! My guides were great and so knowledgeable - they really made the trip. The small group atmosphere also allows you to get to know other people in your group very easily. New Zealand is an amazing country and Active New Zealand does a great job at showing New Zealand from a local standpoint (I didn't feel like a tourist at all)!

  Honeymoon   Jan 14 2011

Review by Georgianna Loden (Coral Gables, Florida, United States) for Rimu Dec 27 2010
Couldn't have had a better or more memorable vacation. This was our honeymoon and we were able to do a little bit of everything! Our guides rocked!!!!! Thank you so much for making our trip worth every second, we loved it!

  Most beautiful place on earth!   Jan 14 2011

Review by Casey Smith (Coral Gables, Florida, United States) for Rimu Dec 27 2010
My wife and I chose the Active New Zealand Rimu trip for our honeymoon. Our gudes, Lina and Alexis were fantastic. Their enthusiasm and positive attitudes were infectious. The beauty of New Zealand is indescribable; both the country and the people. Most beautiful place on earth! My wife and I are blessed to have had this experience.

  Guides Kate Campbell and Cameron Joyce are Awesome!   Jan 11 2011

Review by Robyn Litvay (Dublin, Ohio, United States) for Rimu Dec 13 2010
Not only is New Zealand spectacularly beautiful, but guides Kate and Cameron were amazing.

  Stunning sceneries and wonderful people   Jan 9 2011

Review by Sulaiman Naim (Dubai, UAE, United Arab Emirates) for Rimu Dec 20 2010
It was an exhilarating and wonderfully exhausting experience. Even hiking in the stormy weather, we were ecstatic to feel the savage beauty of nature! But what made the trip unforgettable are KEN and SARAH. Ken with his contagious laugh and indefatigable enthusiasm to every thing, he is so knowledgeable in surrounding nature too. Sarah was like a mother, sister and a daughter engulfing us with care and feeding us nonstop. You are so lucky to have such wonderful people.

  You have to work for a view   Jan 8 2011

Review by Kathy Tiemann (Grand Forks, North Dakota, United States) for Rimu Dec 20 2010
This trip was fabulous. It reminded me how much more you appreciate things when you have to work for them. It also reminded me of what I can do. We worked hard to get places that gave us spectacular views of New Zealand and it was worth the effort.

  Sweet as   Jan 4 2011

Review by Kathleen Thomas (New York, New York, United States) for Rimu Dec 6 2010
The trip was a blast! Challenging, invigorating, breathtaking (both literally and figuratively). I fell in love with hiking on this trip!

  I did hikes I never would have tried on my own   Jan 2 2011

Review by Mary McKinley (Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States) for Rimu Dec 6 2010
[My guide] Ben pushed me a bit, which was good, as I did hikes I never would have tried on my own. Enjoyed making it to the huts and that experience. Never used hiking poles and going over scree -- good new skills acquired. Gear list was complete -- I relied on it closely to pack. Found I had everything I needed. Weather changed alot, so glad to have all variety of layers, including raincoat.

  It was a really terrific trip--thoroughly enjoyed it.   Jan 2 2011

Review by Liz Starr (Windsor, Ontario, Canada) for Rimu Dec 6 2010
I am so glad that I decided to go with Active New Zealand for this trip in the end after looking at various options. Ben and Dan were terrific -- always cheerful and helpful. Dan's meals were great and there was always tons of food. I was really impressed by Ben's knowledge of the country and flora and fauna and his obvious love and enthusiasm of New Zealand. He did a great job of imparting this knowledge without sounding like he swallowed a textbook or tourist guidebook. Ben and Dan really made the trip what it was (although the incredible scenery of New Zealand doesn't hurt). Unfortunately the weather wasn't terribly cooperative but luckily in the end it didn't interfere too much. New Zealand is a stunning country and I am thrilled that I was able to see so many nooks and crannies of it on the Rimu trip. There were only 9 people on our trip and that was just a perfect number of people. I will certainly highly recommend the trip to all.

  Honeymoon Rimu   Dec 29 2010

Review by Anne McDaniel (Holladay, Utah, United States) for Rimu Nov 15 2010
We had a wonderful time exploring such a beautiful country! It was great to be guided to highlights as well as places off the beaten path with such knowledgeable, enthusiastic and encouraging guides. A trip we have recommended to all of our adventure seeking friends! Thank you.

  Rimu Trip Nov 2010 - Excellent!   Dec 27 2010

Review by Carlos Romer (LCF, California, United States) for Rimu Nov 15 2010
This was an outstanding trip. Two weeks getting to know NZ's South Island in a very involved and "active" way, led by 2 truly fantastic guides. More than a "tour" it seemed like a trip with buddies with 2 locals local age long friends hosting it.

  Amazing! Definitely a trip of a lifetime!!!   Dec 27 2010

Review by Rebecca Rice (Davidson, North Carolina, United States) for Rimu Nov 29 2010
Highlight of the trip for me was spending 2 wks. acting like a kid in one of the most beautiful places in the world. The trip was top notch. I enjoyed every aspect of the trip including the scenery, the interactions of the group, and the perfect amount of exhaustion every evening that left you wanting more the next day. I was highly impressed by the professionalism and patience of the guides during difficult situations. Thank you for a great time!

  Kiwi Style   Dec 23 2010

Review by Traci Paulsen (Davenport, Iowa, United States) for Rimu Nov 22 2010
This was one of those rare trips where I really didn't want to come home.... Still clinging to it like a good dream.

  SWEET AS! Everything was "chur."   Dec 21 2010

Review by Kat Anderson (San Francisco, California, United States) for Rimu Nov 8 2010
I did not know what to expect from Active NZ, but knew that I was visiting a beautiful country and wanted an "off the beaten track" experience. The Rimu tour, with the assistance of guides Jordan and Lisa, now goes down in my personal history as one of the best trips I've ever had. Not only was the scenery breath-taking, but the places we trekked and spent the night were unique, one-of-a-kind places. My favorites were Nelson Lakes hut and the Braemar sheep station, but all of the accommodations were comfortable and welcoming. Jordan and Lisa were great guides, hosts, entertainers and friends - they did everything well and with warmth and caring. Everyone in the group got along so well. My husband and I have 10 new friends from all over the world. SWEET AS! Everything was "chur."

  Rhi's awesome adventure   Dec 13 2010

Review by Rhiannon Macnaughtan (Sydney, New South Wales, Australia) for Rimu Nov 22 2010
I had a fantastic time in NZ! Liz and Alexis were awesome, I am still amazed that despite having no electricity, at the Nelson Lakes hike, they were still able to whip up an amazing meal after the hikes. It was an amazing trip! I loved they people that we were with, the guides, the late night trivia, but most of all the scenery! Hopefully I will see you soon! :)

  This was my first guided trip and I would do it again   Dec 12 2010

Review by Jill Leary (Chicago, Illinois, United States) for Rimu Nov 22 2010
It was a great experience, really well organized, and pretty much hassle free. It is hard to say what the best part was since every day was unique and ultimately stunning.

  Sides still ache from laughing!   Dec 11 2010

Review by Joseph D'Souza (Davenport, Iowa, United States) for Rimu Nov 22 2010
The unexpected outcome was making new friends (possibly life-long) from Australia, UK and Chicago. We did not go to sleep on the same night that we woke up, were usually the first at the bus, ready for the new adventure for that day, and laughed for 14 continuous days! This has never happened to us before. The new friends and the adventures arranges for us by the Active New Zealand team made this an unforgettable trip!

  Active is a first rate, professional operator.   Dec 7 2010

Review by Jim Stoen (Holladay, Utah, United States) for Rimu Nov 15 2010
Anne and I recently got married and were thinking about a place for a honeymoon. We didn't want to do the same thing that a lot of our friends do so we decided to go big. New Zealand has been on our list of places to visit for a while so we started searching for something that fit our lives and would let us see more of the country than the average tour. Anne found the trip and we started doing a little research and picked the Rimu trip. We were amazed with the trip. From pickup to drop off, we had an amazing time. The sights we saw were amazing. The activities we did were fantastic and the guides were great! We couldn't have asked for a better trip, we'll remember this forever.

  Awesomely Spectacular!!   Nov 28 2010

Review by Kim Dobyns (Saint Cloud, Florida, United States) for Rimu Nov 1 2010
Awesome. I highly recommend the Rimu trip with Active New Zealand. It totally met all of my expectations and more. It was an experience that I will never forget. I want to thank everyone at Active New Zealand for making this and unforgettable experience. I feel blessed to have been able to experience New Zealand with a tour company that has such love and respect for their country. I definitely want to do it again!

  Spectacular!   Nov 27 2010

Review by Brad Barnhart (APO, APO/FPO AE, United States) for Rimu Nov 8 2010
The trip was more than I could have expected -- the landscape sells itself, but the amazing care provided by our guides and the lodging facilities was an unexpected surprise.

  Best Trip Ever!!   Nov 24 2010

Review by Karen De Roche (Canmore, Alberta, Canada) for Rimu Oct 25 2010
Love New Zealand and Active New Zealand. Our guides were professional and down to earth at the same time!! Showed us their great country and we left with memories that will last a lifetime :) Karen from Canmore/Banff

  Best 14 day Trip Ever!   Nov 16 2010

Review by Bobbi Hagerman (Edwards, Colorado, United States) for Rimu Oct 25 2010
The Rimu Active NZ trip exceeded our expectations! Every day was an adventure and more beautiful than the day before. We were blessed with great weather (except a half day of rain) and two incredible guides, Lina Castle and Sara VanBeek. We are so excited about the trip, we hope to return to NZ in the next couple of years and do another trip, possibly the North Island and the South! We have been telling all our friends about Active NZ. We also may be interested in the Active South America in the future!

  Everyday was Perfect   Nov 14 2010

Review by Ivette Berrios (Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Dubai , United Arab Emirates) for Rimu Oct 25 2010
I will return......

  What I'd give to have just one more day.......   Nov 13 2010

Review by Pat Leong (Cupertino, California, United States) for Rimu Oct 25 2010
I had an awesome time- the best vacation of my life! Your guides Lina and Sarah were terrific and took good care of us all. I was very impressed with their efficiency, expertise, energy, and enthusiasm during the entire trip. They are a well-matched pair and went out of their way to mingle and get to know everyone in the group- from the "squeaky wheelers" to the "wall-flowers" and everyone in between. I was really surprised at how well they got to know us all. They always emphasized safety and made sure every trip member (age 23 thru 88 years) was able to handle the rigors of the trip. I really enjoyed learning a lot about New Zealand through your guides. I was really impressed with the depth of Lina's knowledge of Maori culture. She mentioned the term "whanau" which in Maori means extended family. Please thank Lina and Sarah for "adopting us all during this special trip and treating us like we were family." Final Trip Report: A++. You guys spoiled us all rotten, unleashed the Adrenaline Junkie Side of Us (seeing "Legendary Ed" Keith our 88 yr old member after his Bungy Jump in Queenstown -- eyes aglow and with a big smile on his face was priceless!!!), and made us all fall in love with your beautiful country. It's gonna be hard for me to decompress from this trip and get back to life as normal. What I'd give to have one more in the back of that bus... Cheers, Pat (Rimu Trip, sits in da' back of da' bus) Leong

  Very organized and yet flexible to meet my requests   Nov 7 2010

Review by Charles Hill (Arvada, Colorado, United States) for Rimu Oct 11 2010
I believe that Active offered a great combination of activities, challenge and down time. I was returned home both tired and invigorated at the same time.

  This guided trip has surpassed others I have previously taken.   Nov 2 2010

Review by Helen Toney (Unit 124, , APO/FPO AE, United States) for Rimu Oct 11 2010
I couldn't imagine a better to way explore and learn about a country and its people better than what I experienced with Active New Zealand.

  This is my first guided trip and your team set the bar very high   Oct 30 2010

Review by Sandra Nicolaisen (Edson, Alberta, Canada) for Rimu Oct 11 2010
Thinking you can't do an adventure by yourself. You can! Active New Zealand was my first adventure alone and you are only alone on your travels there. After that you are part of their family, even on your way home your memories and laughter will follow you for a lifetime!

  Very good impression   Oct 29 2010

Review by Loic Toutain (Queensland, Australia) for Rimu Oct 11 2010
Very good impression. Well organized. No problems occured (apart from the sand flies :)). We were lucky in Milford Sound to have sun, dolphins, a baby seal and penguins on the same day!

  Good, really enjoyed it   Apr 14 2012

Review by Jun Gu (Taiwan) for Rimu Feb 27 2012

  A great Adventure   Apr 13 2012

Review by Rosemary Woolston (Goulburn, New South Wales, Australia) for Rimu Mar 26 2012
Fourteen days of getting away from phones and computers and spending time with a great small bunch of diverse people and an enthusiastic guide who lives his job in a country that provides a setting for fun and challenging activities!!!

  Good, really enjoyed it   Apr 3 2012

Review by Robert Bates (Kansas City, Missouri, United States) for Rimu Mar 5 2012

  A wonderful way to enjoy the South Island   Mar 25 2012

Review by Margaret Mann (Hamden, Connecticut, United States) for Rimu Feb 27 2012
This north-bound Rimu trip with Dan and Amanda was a memorable collection of days filled with gorgeous scenery and a wide assortment of activities (hiking, biking, kayaking, and plain old walking). The accommodations ranged from comfortable to very comfortable, and their settings from lovely to WOW! Dan was a fabulous guide, driver and grill-meister, while Amanda was a fabulous guide as well as a talented chef. We were incredibly fortunate with the weather (after a doubtful first two days). After two weeks, we knew there was so much more to see and do, but we felt that we seen and done an amazing amount. Our tour was a great introduction to an incredibly beautiful country.

  New Zealand rocks at any age: do it with ACTIVE NZ   Mar 19 2012

Review by Carolyn McQueen (Sudbury, Massachusetts, United States) for Rimu Feb 13 2012
I fell in love with New Zealand. The natural beauty was inspirational. I have traveled a lot and I have never been to a country with so much natural beauty and goodness. Active NZ introduced me to some very special places. So much so, that the week after our trip I took my kids back to some of the very same places I had visited with Active NZ because I wanted them to experience the magic and grandeur of the mountains, river, lakes and sky.

  Good, really enjoyed it   Mar 16 2012

Review by Chris Ursino (Tamuning, Gu, Guam) for Rimu Feb 27 2012
Enjoyed that everyone was allowed to go at their own pace. Would have liked to do a little more biking, kayaking, snorkeling, etc; not as many day hikes.

  Good, really enjoyed it   Mar 16 2012

Review by Jim Busch (Sudbury, Ontario, Canada) for Rimu Feb 27 2012

  Great adventure and new friends!   Mar 16 2012

Review by Rosemary Busch (Sudbury, Ontario, Canada) for Rimu Feb 27 2012
Up front I want to say Dan and Amanda were the great guides; professional, friendly, thoughtful. Meals were consistently good and on time. After the trip I can honestly say I wasn't craving anything! There were unexpected snacks like on the mountain top and after a hike. Perhaps the 3 day hike dinners could have been more creative, but personally, I thought they were fine. I loved the 3 day hike (yup weather and all). I was challenged to my max with the Mueller ridge, I am so glad I did the second half! I wasn't a fan of kayaking the first time, but I did enjoy the scenery. The kayaks at Milford Sound were more comfortable, but the trip was weak, and maybe the only disappointing part of the trip. I enjoyed the bike ride, having never done a mountain bike ride before. I enjoyed the swim in Lake Manapouri, we added that to the itinerary. I appreciated the different types of accommodations, backpackers, sheep station etc. Now we are traveling around on our own, these places which are unique to NZ are places we could try on our own! Our group was multiple national, multiple generational and I felt we bonded like a team in a very special way. Making new friends was certainly a bonus I didnt expect. Finally dropping in Head office was smart marketing, I did enjoy meeting the folk behind the scenes.

  Good, really enjoyed it   Mar 16 2012

Review by Kim Nashed (waterville, Maine, United States) for Rimu Jan 16 2012

  Good, really enjoyed it   Mar 13 2012

Review by Karen Miller (Boston, Massachusetts, United States) for Rimu Feb 6 2012

  Good, really enjoyed it   Mar 11 2012

Review by Michael Green (New York, New York, United States) for Rimu Feb 13 2012

  Good, really enjoyed it   Mar 7 2012

Review by Dave Singfield (Cobourg, Ontario, Canada) for Rimu Jan 23 2012
We had a good time and enjoyed ourselves. We think a lot of planning and forethought had gone into the venture and it worked well. Unfortunatley we had more than our fair share of rain but we do not fault you for that.

  Kia Ora   Mar 3 2012

Review by Ed Thacher (Valley Center, California, United States) for Rimu Feb 13 2012
My wife and I very much enjoyed our Rimu trip. I hesitated to call it the trip of a lifetime, but it most certainly is a trip we will remember forever. I would definitely tell my friends and family to do it. The places we saw were fantastic and out of the way places we would not have seen had we not been on the Rimu. What really made the trip were our guides, Dan and DK. They were always cheerfull and helpful with all our needs. Dan is a fantastic chef and prepared meals that were the best all along the way. DK was a great sport about all our jokes and shenanigans. The two of them were forever patient with us. The two of them made a great team and most certainly enhanced a great trip. They were both very knowledgeable about every area we visited.

  NZ is beautiful and very friendly.   Feb 25 2012

Review by Susan Stott (Andover, Massachusetts, United States) for Rimu Feb 6 2012
NZ is beautiful and very friendly. Our guides were outstanding, from Ben's dry commentary as we traveled around the South Island to Christina's guiding and cooking. Before signing up I was concerned whether the trip would be too much or too little activity (I am a fit 70). I was told not to worry. While I wished for more time in a single kayak (I did the three day kayak option), the scenery was so wonderful it did not matter that I did not push myself. I chose the more challenging hikes, but was the last one up and turned around at Sealy tarns on Aoraki/Mt. Cook. The views at every step were spectacular. We spent a lot of time in our van, but you can't see as much of South island as we did without traveling a lot. However, we engaged in some kind of activity each time we stopped and we stopped in a lot of wonderful places. I have become addicted to flat whites, the many one lane bridges, sheep, the many signs of geological activity, the birdlife and flowers in February. We had a good group of participants, both fitter and less fit, and it all worked to my satisfaction. Susan (Andover, MA)

  Beautiful country and great guides.   Feb 21 2012

Review by Lindsay Donaldson (Arvada, Colorado, United States) for Rimu Jan 30 2012
Beautiful country and great guides.

  I loved the hiking and the scenery was outstanding.   Feb 21 2012

Review by Helen McVicar (Arvada, Colorado, United States) for Rimu Jan 30 2012
I loved the hiking and the scenery was outstanding.

  Never too late for a gap year!   Feb 10 2012

Review by Alan Burgess (Wickham Bishops, Essex, United Kingdom) for Rimu Jan 23 2012
100% recommendation for the two week Rimu trip whatever your age. Initially many of us felt that going the wrong way round (southbound) was a bad start as we'd go the the best place first, and then it would get worse. Just how wrong can you be! We think it's BETTER southbound. Although we had 4 couples (above average I'm told) and 4 solo travellers, there was a real bond after the first few days which strengthened as the first week finished. We all appreciated the effort the guides put into making life pleasurable, cooking, driving, listening, encouraging and above all else smiling! We had the advantage that Ben and Christina are the best guides so they made it look easy! They got stiff limbs working, praised us older folk every step of the way and ensured the trip was seamless despite the fresh challenges the weather posed. Throughout the trip we were encouraged to try new things, food, wine, activities, even sky diving (thanks Ben). Although I never had a gap year, 2012 is to be a year of catching up with that concept. Active's blurb says a fit 50yr old will do better than a 22yr old couch potato, well a 56yr old couch potato just had a holiday he will remember for the rest of his life. Thank you Active, thank you fellow travellers but my very special thanks to Ben and Christina, brilliant. Alan Burgess Essex

  Jam packed with many adventures!   Jan 31 2012

Review by Heidi Buttery (E Palo Alto, California, United States) for Rimu Jan 2 2012
Our guides, Amanda and Dan, led us on an amazing trip through the South Island of New Zealand. They seamlessly made all of our individual activities, meals and accommodations arrangements. From the majestic kayaking in Milford Sound to the delicious burger recommendation in the lovely Queenstown�it was an awesome trip! A+

  Our guides, Dan and Amanda were awesome.   Jan 31 2012

Review by Jo Mcelmurry (Leavenworth, Washington, United States) for Rimu Jan 2 2012
Our guides, Dan and Amanda were awesome. They were the best. New Zealand is beautiful and I really enjoyed our whole group.

  A smoother start   Jan 29 2012

Review by Tomme Towne (Leavenworth, Washington, United States) for Rimu Jan 2 2012
An absolutely wonderful trip could have started a little better. Coordination for pickup at the airport was awkward in that many of us, after flying half way around the world, had to wait an additional four hours after clearing customs. Even just having a representative there would have made the wait more pleasant. Going snorkeling on the first day was a bit too much, and not really all that great. A drive to see and photograph the seals and seabirds followed by a nice seafood dinner (or late lunch) would have suited me much better. Perhaps snorkeling or time on some nice beach could be fitted in later. Although the Lake Nelson hike was spectacular and something I will never forget, I think a hike on less rocky terrain would have been much more enjoyable. I have never been there before but does a hike in the Abel Tasman area fit this bill? Other than these few comments I couldn't praise the trip itinerary or guides more.

  Great times in NZ   Jan 29 2012

Review by Per-Ola Forsberg (Hoor, Sweden) for Rimu Jan 2 2012
It was a great trip, with great guides and great fellowship in the group. I think we had a really good variation of hiking, kayaking and mountainbiking, and got to see very different landscapes, all of them beautiful, throughout the trip. I've already started thinking about my next Active trip - South America's up next! :)

  Rimu - ready to do it again.   Jan 24 2012

Review by Elaine Oberle (Pittsfield, Massachusetts, United States) for Rimu Jan 2 2012
We prepared for this trip--hiked our butts off every weekend for three months. Carried stuffed packs, went up hills, did eight milers. We were challenged by our three day hike to Angelus hut. We don't have scree here, nor do we need to hug (and cling) to boulders here during our hikes up the 2500 foot hill. We were surprised by what we had to do and what we COULD do. So satisfying. We felt so good (and dirty and smelly and hungry) at the end of each day. Ready to do it again.

  Awesome way to experience New Zealand   Jan 23 2012

Review by Johannes Andersson (Sweden) for Rimu Jan 2 2012
The good and great stuff: - Awesome guides that took great care of us, and ensured a very smooth and enjoyable trip. - Many amazing sites visited for hiking, kayaking and even simply staying and sleeping. - We got away from mainstream "touristy" sites and got to see cool little hamlets and other out of the way areas. - Great opportunity to get to know other active people. The not so good - The trip bus was not very comfortable to sit in (which is important since roughly 2500km is travelled in it during the two weeks) - The price seems steep considering what the accomodations, bus, food etc. we got should cost. I'm hoping you pay your guides really well and that's the explanation ;)

  A first solo group holiday   Jan 21 2012

Review by Bob Burton (Overstrand, Norfolk, United Kingdom) for Rimu Dec 19 2011
This was the first time that I had been away on an organised group holiday alone and on my return I immediately booked another. The activities were brilliant, the guides terrific and the company great. All in all a fabulous, value for money experience.

  a good time was had by all   Jan 20 2012

Review by Grazia Buono (Everett, Washington, United States) for Rimu Jan 2 2012
Rimu was a terrific overview of Kiwi-land!!! Our guides, Dan and Amanda were awesome and kept us on track, busy and happy throughout. They kept the herd together and healthy. The gang was a good group with a fun mix of ages, personalities and I think we had fun playing and relaxing. It always expands your personal horizon to share experiences with people from all over. Never will forget sidesplitting laughter while playing evening trivial pursuit, good times hiking on the precipice in Nelson Lakes park with soaring mountains and blue sky, kayaking on Milford sound, and biking to Wanaka! Hooray for Active NZ!

  I had a nice trip!   Jan 17 2012

Review by Craig Sieber (Pennington, New Jersey, United States) for Rimu Dec 26 2011

  Probably the best way to experience South Island   Jan 14 2012

Review by Graham Lewis-Taylor (Maldon, Essex, United Kingdom) for Rimu Nov 14 2011
It is difficult to see an island of this size in two weeks, but I came away feeling that we had seen, experienced and enjoyed just about as much as anyone could. I would certainly recommend the northbound route because Milford Sound and Mt Cook were the undoubted highlights for me and they came towards the end. We were fortunate also to have a great bunch of people, guided by Liz who was very knowledgeable and Natalie who also cooked some wonderful meals.

  2 weeks of fun-   Dec 27 2011

Review by Debbie Farnaby (Sandton, Gauteng, South Africa) for Rimu Dec 5 2011
South island is a magnificent part of the country, and for 2 weeks we were privileged to be able to enjoy it at its best - wonderful out of the way places to stay, great weather, well organised activities, super people and fabulous food -

  overall the entire trip was wonderful   Dec 23 2011

Review by Penny White (Lake Charles, Louisiana, United States) for Rimu Nov 21 2011
The kayaking was questionable... but overall the entire trip was wonderful. Mike and Jacqueline were fabulous and I would highly recommend any of my friends to ask specifically for them. The food was wonderful, the companionship was great.

  Excellent overall tour of the South Island   Dec 6 2011

Review by John Rempe (North Bend, Washington, United States) for Rimu Nov 14 2011
I can't really think of how I would change the trip. It was a great way to get an overview of the island.

  Rimu Trip Review   Dec 3 2011

Review by Pete Harty (Newport, Rhode Island, United States) for Rimu Nov 14 2011
My trip was great. The guides really made a difference and ensured your needs were met. I thought the amount of driving time was a little bit more then I expected and some activities shorter than I expected but overall the trip design was perfect. Active NZ consideration: Perhaps a better balance of biking, kayaking and hiking would provide a more diverse experience. The Rimu has a heavy emphasis on hiking currently. Perhaps adding a day of white water rafting as an included trip activity would be a future option. As opposed to a Queenstown option that a client pays for over and above the trip cost.

  Tim Stewart and Dan Sutherland are the BEST!   Dec 2 2011

Review by Wendy Scott (San Francisco, California, United States) for Rimu Nov 7 2011
Tim and Dan made the trip for me. I live in California and have seen a lot of beautiful places before coming to New Zealand. As Dan found out I am a waterfall snob. Still, I was awe struck at many of the things we saw. Milford Sound was breathtaking. I thought I was going to cry when we had to leave. I also loved Okarito and the Sheep Shearers quarters. I ended up breaking my ankle on the last day of our adventure coming down from the hike to see the views of Mt. Cook. Tim was right there and took excellent care of me. After I was helicopter out by Search and Rescue and found out my ankle was broken I called Tim to let him know. He was already heading to Timaru to pick me up because he thought it was a sprain. I really appreciated the extra mile that both Tim and Dan went on the trip. I'm hoping to come back to New Zealand sometime and if I do I will definitely look into doing another Active New Zealand adventure. Another thing to throw out there. It is great that you require travel insurance. I never would have bought it if it had not been required. It saved my skin with my broken ankle and the bills I would have incurred. You should definitely continue to require this of your clients.

  rimu 31oct-13nov   Nov 27 2011

Review by Kevin Henderson (Maple Shade, New Jersey, United States) for Rimu Oct 31 2011
Hi, my wife will be writing a more thorough review shortly. I just wanted to chime in on my two biggest disappointments of the trip. The first was not being able to stay in angelus hut. I understand that there was still snow up there but if that is pretty typical for that time of year than that should be stated on the rimu itinerary, as I was really looking forward to it. I was pretty bummed about going all the way to NZ without actually hiking very high up for some mountain top views (with the exception of key summit, which was unfortunately poor visibility). The second was the leg room in the bus (Jean). I am 6 foot tall and on several of the seats I could not sit forward without my knees crushing into the seat in front of me. I didn't realize until late in the trip that some seats actually had a few inches more leg room. That would have been nice to know so the group could have rotated around more to share the better seats. Other than that, the guides were great! the food was great! as was pretty much everything else!

  The best way to see New Zealand.   May 3 2011

Review by Kinney Horn (SSF, California, United States) for Rimu Apr 4 2011
Fantastic Trip. The best way to see New Zealand. But the guidance on the necessary fitness level required for the trip needs to be more clearly explained. We had one person on the trip with a knee injury that should not have attempted the backpacking trip.

  Accommodations in certain parts are below par.   May 1 2011

Review by Kezia Samuel (Apt 3c, New York, United States) for Rimu Mar 14 2011
Kate is awesome! It was an overall good trip. Accommodations in certain parts are below par.

  Amazing Country   Apr 25 2011

Review by Christy Page (jamaica plain, Massachusetts, United States) for Rimu Mar 28 2011
First organized trip for me and could not have traveled to a better country. Awesome scenery, great hikes with informative guides, good food, new friends. What more do you need!!!

  Good   Apr 14 2011

Review by Tom Waller (North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada) for Rimu Mar 21 2011
The trip was good except for the bed at the Homestead - probably the worst bed - I would not put anybody in that unit. Others on the trip with us had beds at Homestead that were fine. The snorkel guides tokin up did not sit well with me. I had a lot of fun and enjoyed the trip and the guides Elle and Gemma.

  Great mix of activities and scenery!   Apr 4 2011

Review by Virginia Cannon (Olympia, Washington, United States) for Rimu Mar 7 2011
The kayaking and hiking were beautiful! We were blessed by the weather and had beautiful glacier hiking on the Franz Joseph glacier and gorgeous misty kayaking in Milford Sound with fantastic waterfalls. On our free day in Queenstown we rafted the Shotover River - what a kick! We did the Hooker Valley Hike out of Mt. Cook Village in perfectly clear skies with stunning views of Mt. Cook. Could not have asked for more.

  Excellent Sequencing of Mulit-sport activities   Mar 26 2011

Review by Lon Sullivan (Olympia, Washington, United States) for Rimu Mar 7 2011
The sequencing of hiking, kayaking, helicopter, rafting (our Queenstown personal option) was perfect and was scalable to skill & fitness except for the elementary mtn biking. The early-on visit to an excellent, informative winery opened our eyes to NZ's non-SauvB wines and informed our trip. The guides were pleasant and to-the-task, driving very safely, making everyone timely w/o "the whip". We need two beds and we had them, beds mosty okay-to-good. The van was quite comfortable. Except for Queenstown and two nights of guide cuisine and NZ's remarkable bakery goods, the food was carb-loaded and mediocre, probably due to high cost NZ dollar from which the pre-paid trip insulated us. Our US-bought nut bar supplements proved vital for protein (inferentially suggested in the pre-trip material). There is no scenario in our mtn-rich WA/OR as wondrous as the approach to Mt Cook. For we-longtime kayakers, Milford Sound was un-matchable and I am sure surpassing the experience of the renowned land-based "Trek". For rafters, Queenstown's Shotover R. is a "don't miss" - first time guides have asked "anyone on heart meds", a disqualifier and with good reason. These compensate for the 100+ long-lasting sand fly bites. (Note to your Paul McDonald: I asked you the week prior if sandflies would be a problem on our trip. "No - you'll have no problem with them at all". Thanks, Paul - you should be staked out on a sandfly beach. Pre-trip our friends told us we were travelling a long & costly way for a Pacific NW experience. NZ scenery is like a greatly enhanced and much more varied Pacific NW. We do a lot of provisioned adventure travel - this was one of our best trlps!

  A well drilled team.   Mar 22 2011

Review by Simon Lambert (London, United Kingdom) for Rimu Jan 24 2011
I have just completed the Rimu trip with Jordan and Gwyneth. I would like to thank you for providing the well organised, exciting trip. I would also like to comment on the great job that Jordan and Gwyneth did. Jordan is a fantastic lead guide. He is very knowledgeable about NZ history, wildlife and the general environment. Combining this with his energy, organisation and creativity meant that there was never a dull moment. As for Gwyneth, she works extremely well with Jordan. Again, organised, fun and a super cook. I'm sure you know this already but I would just like to express my appreciation. I wish you all the best for the future and I hope I get the opportunity to come back some time.

  Our honeymoon   Mar 17 2011

Review by Frida Emri (Toronto, Ontario, Canada) for Rimu Feb 7 2011
This was a great choice for getting a taste of all corners of the South Island in an active way! Stunning scenery, cozy accommodations, and fantastic guidance. Frida & Zain, Canada

  Great guides and well planned   Mar 15 2011

Review by Ariella Dugan (Belleville, New Jersey, United States) for Rimu Jan 31 2011
Exceptionally well organized. It was wonderful not to have to worry about food, transportation, or what we should do each day. We had hoped to lose some weight, but were fed too well to accomplish that goal!

  Our guides were the best and really made the trip worth it.   Mar 13 2011

Review by Tim Hulvalchick (Lake Oswego, Oregon, United States) for Rimu Feb 21 2011
Awesome and fun trip! Our guides were the best! The trip was very fun and exciting.

  Well run company, beautiful country   Mar 9 2011

Review by Peter Wesolowski (Newcastle Upon Tyne, Tyne And Wear, United Kingdom) for Rimu Feb 7 2011
Good balance between coach touring and activities. Excellent camaraderie in the group reinforced by the tour leaders.

  Lifelong memories and friendships.   Feb 28 2011

Review by Deb Jeacle (Nelly Bay, Queensland, Australia) for Rimu Feb 7 2011
Mix 12 people from 5 different countries for 2 weeks, visiting some of the most stunning landscapes in NZ - and the result? Some lifelong memories and friendships.

  Very professional   Feb 25 2011

Review by Valentine Lassale (Paris, France) for Rimu Feb 7 2011
Everything was perfect, excluding the bus, which is not comfortable at all. There is no space between the seats!

  Breathtaking and Unspolied   Feb 14 2011

Review by Cheryl Bleakley (Gaithersburg, Maryland, United States) for Rimu Dec 27 2010
New Zealand is such a beautiful country, both breathtaking and unsurpassed in variation of geography, climate and beauty. Our Active New Zealand trip gave us the opportunity to appreciate all of it with all the details taken care of. We truely had "No worries".

  Incredibly Beautiful Trip   Feb 7 2011

Review by Carrie Byles (San Francisco, California, United States) for Rimu Dec 27 2010
This was a wonderful trip! Not only was the scenery amazing but the entire trip was carefully orchestrated to show us the best, off the beaten track places. Not as active as I am used to, but well suited for a wide range of people and a lot of fun. I totally recommend this trip.

  Very impressed   Jan 28 2011

Review by Tom Gibson (Melbourne, Victoria, Australia) for Rimu Jan 10 2011
Very impressed with the attention to detail, logistics and the guides. One thing I didnt enjoy was Braemar Station, after 14 days in a group the last thing you need to is to be couped up in a very claustrophobic property for two days.

  Well organized but a bit expensive in the end.   Jan 27 2011

Review by Jill Pfeiffer (Redondo Beach, California, United States) for Rimu Jan 3 2011
The organization and the locations Active chose for the Rimu were fantastic and the guides were knowledgeable and very helpful. The dinners prepared for us were tasty! Our trip ran smoothly so I don't have any major complaints about the structure of the tour or any of the pre-departure administrative stuff. I definitely enjoyed the trip and the people who were fellow active clients.

  Great guides!   Jan 11 2011

Review by Gay Gibson (Seattle, Washington, United States) for Rimu Nov 15 2010
The guides make all the difference. Ken was extremely knowledgable on a variety of topics and was always willing to go the extra mile to ensure we were as happy as possible. Ken is truly a fun-loving guy. We really enjoyed his company. Magnus was also very attentive to our needs and a great cook! They both made the trip a unique and wonderful experience!

  I realized I could do more than I normally ask myself.   Jan 8 2011

Review by Gayle Baldwin (Grand Forks, North Dakota, United States) for Rimu Dec 20 2010
This was a great trip! I would check "Awesome," but since my lifetime is not over, I hesitate to call it the best! My best eval is that the trip was not what I expected, and in many ways, better. Second summary: in NZ, like in life, "No bruise, no views." We were not expecting all of the torrential rain... I mean, this was not like the postcards, but that was not the tour's fault. Sarah and Ken were absolutely wonderful... not one negative there. They pushed us, but gave us options. Ken transmitted the perfect attitude -- everything has its beauty. His enthusiasm was catching. Sarah was always happy and supportive of us all. The challenges of the trip gave me new perspective on life. I realized I could do more than I normally ask myself. Now, how to translate this into my real life? Thanks to everyone for this opportunity.

  And the prize goes to (our guide) Kate!   Jan 7 2011

Review by Beth Flanzbaum (Framingham, Massachusetts, United States) for Rimu Dec 13 2010
I loved the experience and couldn't have asked for a better way to ease into active adventuring. I would have liked a more realistic explanation of the physical demands of the trip. On this trip I was unable to keep up physically with the other group members and I worried about slowing everyone down.

  Terrific   Jan 4 2011

Review by Janet Hammer (Wellesley, Ontario, Canada) for Rimu Dec 6 2010
Highlight of the trip was the scenery and food.

  Inspirational Landscapes   Jan 2 2011

Review by Dawn Kaplan (Hoboken, New Jersey, United States) for Rimu Dec 6 2010
Most of the time you don't know where to look, because it's all so beautiful, and all there for you to take in. It is a place to get inspired, re-energized and re-establish yourself back to the natural beauty around you.

  Thanks for organizing FOR ME!   Dec 29 2010

Review by Pam Waddington (Burlingame, California, United States) for Rimu Nov 29 2010
A great way to get around and see what the South Island has to offer, especially if you do not have the time to plan and organize a trip of this kind yourself. What a beautiful country!

  Excellent and well organized.   Dec 24 2010

Review by John Hammer (Wellesley, Ontario, Canada) for Rimu Dec 6 2010
Highlight of the trip for me - everything except for biking option. The bikes for the biking option were "sub-standard" to what we expected and if you compare then to the ones provided on the Rimu. A truly wonderful trip and we had an awesome group of people touring with us.

  Rimu in November   Dec 16 2010

Review by Rita Clark (Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada) for Rimu Nov 15 2010
The trip was full of amazing views and adventures. The warmth and care of our guides made the trip for us.

  Brilliant trip and moves into my top five!   Dec 1 2010

Review by Karen Sinden (Cobham, Kent, United Kingdom) for Rimu Nov 8 2010
See http://ksthebigtrip.blogspot.com/

  So much work if you had to do it yourself.   Nov 30 2010

Review by Laurie Poon (Sunnyvale, California, United States) for Rimu Nov 1 2010
Very good trip. Got to see many, many places which would have been so much work if you had to do it yourself. It was fun to go and do the outdoor activities with a group. Sitting on the bus got harder near end of trip, but at least you don't have to drive. The scenery and climate was beautiful (could have been warmer). The South Island has such a small population and is fairly remote, you feel as if you have the place all to yourself and not fight with swarms of tourists.

  Most excellent adventure!!   Nov 28 2010

Review by Bela Silva (Silver Springs, MD, United States) for Rimu Nov 8 2010
The Rimu trip was excellent. My only suggestion would be to explain to novice hikers, kayakers and mountain bikers that this trip is very active and it requires a good degree of experience and fitness level. I found it to be a little more challenging that what the advertising suggests.

  Was a client on a South American trip   Nov 23 2010

Review by Jim Tofani (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States) for Rimu Nov 8 2010
Overall impression of Active is very positive. Many things were memorable.

  Rimu Trip Southbound, review jan23-Feb5, 2012   Feb 19 2012

Review by Monica Sabo (Bigfork, Montana, United States) for Rimu Jan 23 2012
First, I'd like to explain certain components of my review as there were some aspects that were excellent and I want to first recognize those parts. Our guides, Ben and Cristina, were exceptional! I would very highly recommend them to anyone and seek them out as guides for any future adventure trip. Ben's in depth local "Kiwi" knowledge of the entire island, it's history, people, and geology was excellent. His humor in delivering some the stories was also appreciated. Cristina's smile and nurturing, combined with her excellent culinary skills brightened each day and long bus ride! We look forward to seeing them again in New Zealand and welcome them to our home in Montana. Overall, I felt I had to rate the trip as just OK, because there are some areas of accommodation and travel that could be greatly improved upon. I have travelled extensively, worldwide, for both business and personal trips, and have experience in a variety of travel modes and accommodations. My comments are meant to help improve on a good experience and I believe with a few tweaks could be an excellent experience for all who choose it. First, "Burt", the bus. While I love personalization, Burt needs some improvements for the comfort of travelers on such an extensive (2500k) trip over 14 days. The seats and legroom, at best, would fit someone 5'4" or shorter. Only 3 of our 12 would fit in that category. I believe we are a good representative mix of most western European and US body types, which made up all of the participants in our group. The long, windy roads made for many hours of driving most days made for some very uncomfortable rides. I know this is the longest in kilometers and days, so would highly recommend that management look into this problem. I wouldn't recommend this trip on that alone, which is unfortunate, because the country is beautiful and activities excellent. Second, I felt there were several nights of accommodations that were sub-par. I didn't expect 5 Star resorts on an adventure trip, but I'd like to point out 4 accommodations/locations, making up 5 of the 13 nights,that I feel could be changed or upgraded and would make a world of difference in the travelers experience. I would first select a slightly upgraded lodge in Tenau, over the Manapouri motel. It was below average, and while on the lake, lacked atmosphere and the gathering room for travelers had zero atmosphere. When traveling such long days, it is important to make the social evening times we spend together as a group, something more special than this choice, especially given the per day price of this trip. The second place I'd change is the A frame lodging along the highway was equally below average with a crowded, unattractive gathering place for dining. I can look up the name, if you need it. The third place is the Backpackers Lodge at Milford Sound. I feel well beyond the years (as were all our group), to spend a night in this type of accommodation. It was interesting, especially the container type unit my husband and I had for the night. But the group showers and smelly drying room for our drenched clothes made for an unpleasant night all around. The other lodging in Okarito Village, I would eliminate for location. With the town of Franz Josef just 30 minutes away, it would be much better to upgrade there where there were the Hot Pools, a variety of cares and bars, as well as shopping opportunities. It would still be very feasible to drive to Okarito Lagoon for the Kayaking, a short hike, and a flat white with Richard. Finally, and related to the upgrade recommendations I have made for lodging are the meals. While Cristina has excellent culinary skills and prepared some wonderful dinners, the lunches were very average (too many sandwiches), and most breakfasts were just OK. Again for the price per day this trip cost, I expected a few more specialities, dining out experiences. Finally, I fell in love with the geography, landscapes, and people of New Zealand, primarily through our experience with Ben and Cristina. I thank them for greatly surpassing an uncomfortable ride and average accommodations. I find At this time, I could not recommend this Rimu trip to my friends and family. I would be happy to discuss any of this further with management. You have a tremendously beautiful country and the people are as wonderful as the landscapes. Thank you for listening.

  New Zealand-South Island   Jan 21 2012

Review by Tracy Cowperthwaite (California, United States) for Rimu Dec 26 2011
Felt like we really "did" the South Island. The guides were super. The kayaking was really spectacular. The accommodations ranged from being great to being downright scary (super used, dirty pillow, no soap). The food was o.k. but not great, expected more fresh food since it is summer in New Zealand.

  Great Guides   Jan 20 2012

Review by Joel Relethford (Everett, Washington, United States) for Rimu Jan 2 2012
Dan and Amanda were great, walking slow when needed and going fast when possible. They keep a great attitude and keep the group happy. Joel

  Rimu Dec 2011-jan 2012   Jan 19 2012

Review by Peter Cowperthwaite (California, United States) for Rimu Dec 26 2011
New Zealand is a beautiful country and the kayaking is a marvelous way to see it. The trip is light on hiking and mountain biking and you do spend a significant amount of time (4-5 hours day) in an automobile. Given that you are covering 3000 KM I guess this is understandable. They take you to nice, out of the way places and for this accommodations are appropriate. Understand it has to fit all levels and don't expect a strenous trip and you'll be happy...

  Enjoyed the Trip   Apr 19 2011

Review by Scott Smith (Seal Beach, California, United States) for Rimu Mar 7 2011
The RIMU tour gives you a nice taste of the South Island all in 13 days.

  Great group of people   Apr 19 2011

Review by Lisa Nguyen (Seal Beach, California, United States) for Rimu Mar 7 2011
Overall I enjoyed touring with some really nice, easy going people. The guides were kind too; however, I have been on other tour guided trips in the past and what I found lacking in this trip was the enthusiasm and history/site seeing information from the guides. Most of the time while we were driving (which was a lot!), it was very quiet and uninteresting. I didn't learn much. I liked some of the areas we visited, but I found the accomodations distasteful except for Queenstown when we got a different hotel to stay in. Some of the dinners were good, but the lunches were not very good. I think the experience could've been enhanced with better guides, better food, and better accomodations. I still think NZ is a wonderful place and I'm glad I had a chance to visit the South Island!

  A great trip overall, but hard to justify the price tag   Jan 11 2011

Review by Nitin Maheshwari (New Albany, Ohio, United States) for Rimu Nov 29 2010
A great trip overall, but hard to justify the price tag based on all the accommodations and activities. I have to equate the level of accomodation to the price point of the trip ($313/day). I do realize that the goal is to be a little off the beaten path, but there is scope for improvement/upgrade. This feedback may sound as if I wasn't happy with my trip. But that isn't the case. I loved NZ and the trip and it was a great vacation.

  Covitz review   Feb 17 2012

Review by Jeff Covitz (San Francisco, California, United States) for Rimu Jan 30 2012
This is a great review. Thx for sharing! How many people were in your tour group?� I'll start by mentioning the positive things before I get into why I was disappointed in the trip: Guide are great! Can't say enough good things about Dan & Elle and Magnus (sp?) The company clearly puts a lot of effort into hiring / training the guides and they do a tremendous job. They cook & feed you continuously, are great fun on the hikes and extremely flexible to individual needs. The multi-day hike around Nelson lake was awesome and was exactly the strenuous off the beaten path type of thing I was looking for (if only there was more of it).�Milford Sound�is amazing on the kyacks (but I wish we were able to extend that and go all the way to the sea which was an option for other travelers). Some of the day hikes & bikes were great (if only they turned into mult-day hikes or bikes). On the negative side: The Rimu tour is marketed as a 14 day high velocity "active" trip that is wall to wall hiking, biking, kayaking and extreme sports of every variety. While it's true that you do these activities, the tour is not as "active" as the brochure implies. This is in fact a bus tour, and you spend A LOT of time on the bus. While this tour gives you a good overview of the South Island, you get a taste of the "Active" but you don't stay in one place long enough to really enjoy it; you're rarely off the beaten path with the exception of the multi-day hike. Most of the places you visit can easily be visited on your own for a lot cheaper and you'd have more control as to which place / activity you'd like to focus on. This tour is good for folks who want to be carted around from one activity to another without having to plan it themselves. Folks who are relatively fit and like to get out there to a point, but don't want to do anything too strenuous. I'd call the Rimu tour "Active light." My tour was made up primarily of retirees and empty nesters and a handful of folks in the 30-45 age range. Definately not the 20-40 happy skydiving / bungy jumping / hardcore "off the beaten path" set one see's on the website. Once 2 of the younger members left the tour early I felt like I was traveling with my grandparents...Zzzzzzz. But that was just my tour, I understand that it may not necessarily reflect the demo of every Rimu tour, just luck of the draw. That said, everyone else all seemed to have a blast, which was great for them, but for someone like me who really wanted to get dirty and experience more of the "active" off the beaten path part of the South Island, this was not the right itinerary. I was told during the tour that the TUI itinerary is perhaps more suited to someone like me, it would have been good to know that BEFORE I dropped A LOT of money. I don't understand why we spent 2 nights in Okiria (sp?) which was a beach where you can't swin in the ocean and covered in Sand Flies - that could have been 2 days on the Routeburn trek or camping at Kepler or having the helicopter included at Fraz Joseph instead of an extra $350 for an already overpriced trip. I ended up leaving the tour 2 days early to spend more time in the Queenstown�area (from that point on the trip was great). The friendly Active NZ staff would not prorate the 2 days for me, which is a business decision on your end, I understand, but I couldn't recommend you guys to someone else now if there is no financial recourse if you are not enjoying yourself. My friend is a travel agent and has clients like me who would be interested in a tour like this, I was sort of a test-case. However due to that policy, I doubt she'd risk sending anyone to you. I think you should market the Rimu tour more accurately as to what it is to avoid situations like mine in the future. Also, perhaps you could reserve some of your trips for 20-45 age range to get a better mix of people who want to do the same type of activities. In the end, South Island is an amazing place and definitely worth the trip, but is more fun experienced outside of a tour bus. Thanks again to Dan & Elle who did an outstanding job!

  We hiked during entire trip what I typically do in 1-2 days   Mar 12 2011

Review by Ann Chenoweth (Salt Lake City, Utah, United States) for Rimu Feb 21 2011
I was told by Jodi prior to my registering that the group would be hiking 5 miles each day at a moderate pace. Daily hikes were important to me and I was willing to stay at basic accomodations because of this. I would have not gone on trip if I was told reality of how little hiking we would do. I signed up for kaying option and heli-hike to give me breaks from daily hikes. I traded off staying at basic accomodations due to amount of hiking I was told we would do. Because hiking was so limited, this trade off was unacceptable.

  read between the lines   Dec 25 2010

Review by Bruce Brown (Alberta, Canada) for Rimu Nov 29 2010
Not a bad tour, if you like to be babysat. Nice trails, too bad about being kept on a leash so as to not be able to enjoy, come on, we are adults and signed a release - let the people walk at their own pace. I recommend you study the itinerary well before booking, oh and by the way they don't follow it anyway so why bother. I think the bad decision on routing made by our guide without waiting for the weather report negatively affected our day with the extra time to go the longer harder route, we (Bob and I) missed out on lunch, we all missed the winery tour, our farewell dinner was fish and chips in the bus, nice. Knowing Bob was slow, he should have either gone down the ridge or the same way we came up and water taxied up the lake and we could of been on schedule, and we could of done the ridge walk, one of the nicest trails in New Zealand, not the creek walk we got. I think she [co-guide Amanda] did a good job -- knowledgeable, helpful, willing, and a good cook to boot.