For the second time in as many years, we've conducted an unprecedented survey of adventure travel companies, based on the idea that a traveller's most important decision is not always where to go but who to go with. For the 2009 edition, we spoke to more guide services—and their clients—than ever before.
Active Adventures New Zealand overall score: 89.80
New Zealand's most popular destinations get special treatment by this outfitter. While most tourists see Milford Sound from the deck of a cruise ship, Active Adventures New Zealand clients navigate sea kayaks among the fjord's seals and dolphins. And whereas the majority of visitors to Mount Cook catch just a quick glimpse of New Zealand's highest peak, Active Adventures New Zealand groups stay for two nights at a high-country sheep farm overlooking Mount Cook. Then they spend a full day hiking in Mount Cook National Park. The lodging is eclectic, from mountain huts to an apartment in Queenstown.
Ultimate South Island Adventure 'Rimu'; hiking, sea kayaking, biking; 14 days
Rating Criteria Scores
Overall: 89.80
Quality of service: 92.00
Sustainability: 83.50
Spirit of adventure: 94.50
Education: 89.00
Client satisfaction: 90.00
Our passion for exploration is rooted in a strong connection to the natural beauty of our home, New Zealand, and the drive to venture beyond its shores to discover a world different to our own.
We bring your adventure dreams to life. The best journeys don’t just take you places; they inspire you to be curious, ignite your spirit, and find a new sense of freedom – they can even change your life!
Feel the heart and soul of each place you visit with our local people on the ground and knowledgeable guides, who take great care to ensure a truly authentic and immersive experience. This is the real deal.
Feel like you're in a world of your own, with unique itineraries to take you away from the usual tourist traps. Enjoy exhilarating activities like hiking, biking, rafting, and kayaking, to explore the very best of each destination.
We take the time to get to know you to ensure you have the very best experience on our trips. Our small group adventures are big on flexibility — no matter what your version of "active" is, we have options on each trip to suit every individual.
Imagine a vacation that's fully guided, and everything is taken care of and included in the trip price — all accommodations, activities, transport on-trip, most meals, and more! Effortless and value-packed.