Holly 

New Zealand & Europe Guide

Holly’s a kiwi girl at heart, and after spending her college years near London, Holly’s been busy exploring all corners of the globe.

Her greatest adventure to date is her trip to the Arctic island of Svalbard - where she hiked, climbed and cruised her way through barren arctic desert, spotting whales, polar bears and reindeer. “Seeing it all under midnight sunlight, it’s almost too much to put into words”.

When did you discover your passion for travel, adventure or the outdoors?

“I think it was on my first overnight tramping experience on the Copland Track – surrounded by beautiful New Zealand rainforest, alpine meadows, gurgling creeks and epic swing bridges… all under the view of the snow-capped peaks of the almighty Southern Alps. It was amazing!”

Working in tourism has been a great excuse to travel – her career has seen her follow the winters, with the odd escape to Europe and Asia in between.

Holly's quirky talents include touching her nose with her tongue, and hanging a spoon from her nose! And when she’s not out on the trail with our Active travellers, she’s hiking, swimming, skiing and snowboarding her way around the countryside.

Testimonials

“Holly ROCKS!!!! She stayed with me at the back of the pack and was so encouraging , it kept me going. She was observant, and made sure I took my time with the hills and drank water routinely. Her positive attitude was contagious...lots of singing happened with those hiking with her! She was a real pleasure to hike with, and I'm so glad she was our guide. ”
- Paula G. (Steamboat Springs, Colorado, United States), Tour du Mont Blanc August 2018

“Holly as a trip leader is a # 10. She made sure we all had a wonderful trip. She has patience above and beyond the call of duty so to speak.”
- Jim T. (Mount Vernon, Washington, United States), Kiwi December 2017

“Holly should open a restaurant or move to Canada to be my personal chef :) Holly took the time to find our our likes, dislikes and make incredible meals over and over. I have been backpacking for years but have never eaten so well in the back country. Holly introduced us to tim-tam slams and the spoon of shame (which still makes me laugh). I was never left hungry and was introduced to new foods that I will continue to eat in the future. Holly was personable and fun and had an incredible knowledge of the local birds. As with Vanessa, I am very happy to have had the opportunity to meet Holly!”
- Tara C. (Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada), Rimu March 2016