Los Alamos Monitor

Los Alamos Monitor

Los Alamos Monitor

Writer Debbie Stone journeyed the South Island of New Zealand with us


Debbie Stone writes for the Los Alamos Monitor and has access to a network of publications which also took interest in her experience. Those publications include Luxe Beat Magazine, Northwest Prime Time, nationalparktraveling.com, and Big Bend Parks & Travel Magazine. A conversation about her trip was also aired on Big Bend Radio.

The adventure Debbie took was our 'Kiwi' trip, 14 days on the South Island, hiking, kayaking, and enjoying delicious wine and excellent food. 

Hear from our Happy Guests
4.85/5 Rating | 6,500+ Reviews

What people say about our trips

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Swiss Alps Adventure

Lesley

"Great activities and fantastic tour guides!

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Great activities and fantastic tour guides!

"Great activities and fantastic tour guides! read less

4.8 Stars (10 reviews)

L | January 1970

Tour Du Mont Blanc

Karen Thies-Houghton

"It was fantastic

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It was fantastic

"It was fantastic read less

4.7 Stars (219 reviews)

K | November 3518

Yellowstone Adventure

Maria Olsen

"Excellent, fun, knowledgeable guides! Booked, in part, because Austin Adventures guaranteed a night at Old Faithful Inn (booked out far in advance). Food was great and saw the best parts of Yellowstone while avoiding the crowds. Highly recommend Austin Adventures, as well as this itinerary.

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Excellent, fun, knowledgeable guides! Booked, in part, because Austin Adventures guaranteed a night at Old…

"Excellent, fun, knowledgeable guides! Booked, in part, because Austin Adventures guaranteed a night at Old Faithful Inn (booked out far in advance). Food was great and saw the best parts of Yellowstone while avoiding the crowds. Highly recommend Austin Adventures, as well as this itinerary. read less

4.9 Stars (147 reviews)

M | January 1970

Yosemite Adventure

Stephen Hamelburg

"Amazing trip with knowledgeable guides. The hikes were challenging but appropriate for our level of experience and conditioning. The views were unmatched. This is the best way to experience a National Park.

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Amazing trip with knowledgeable guides. The hikes were challenging but appropriate for our level of…

"Amazing trip with knowledgeable guides. The hikes were challenging but appropriate for our level of experience and conditioning. The views were unmatched. This is the best way to experience a National Park. read less

4.8 Stars (11 reviews)

S | January 1970

Kenai Fjords & Denali Adventure

Sandra Davis, Ms.

"This is a wonderful trip for active travelers who like a variety of activities and great food. If you get good weather the scenery is epic. Don't miss the flight to Denali if it is a sunny day! Even if you don't have perfect weather, the activities are great -- especially the water based ones. If this part of Alaska interests you this is the way to go.

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This is a wonderful trip for active travelers who like a variety of activities and…

"This is a wonderful trip for active travelers who like a variety of activities and great food. If you get good weather the scenery is epic. Don't miss the flight to Denali if it is a sunny day! Even if you don't have perfect weather, the activities are great -- especially the water based ones. If this part of Alaska interests you this is the way to go. read less

4.9 Stars (30 reviews)

S | January 1970

Tour Du Mont Blanc

Dianna Waller

"This was probably one of the most amazing experiences of my life. It was totally worth the money and would definitely do it again. The guides were awesome, very knowledgeable and helpful. The people in France, Switzerland and Italy were all so nice and hospitable. And the hikes were the perfect amount of hard but exhilarating at the same time and the scenery just could not be described appropriately. You have to see it yourself. And what better way can you knock 3 different countries off your bucket list. Great, great trip. Oh and don't get me started on the amazing food. So good!

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This was probably one of the most amazing experiences of my life. It was…

"This was probably one of the most amazing experiences of my life. It was totally worth the money and would definitely do it again. The guides were awesome, very knowledgeable and helpful. The people in France, Switzerland and Italy were all so nice and hospitable. And the hikes were the perfect amount of hard but exhilarating at the same time and the scenery just could not be described appropriately. You have to see it yourself. And what better way can you knock 3 different countries off your bucket list. Great, great trip. Oh and don't get me started on the amazing food. So good! read less

4.7 Stars (219 reviews)

D | January 1970

Yellowstone & Grand Teton Family Vacation

Margo Ross

"Our family had a wonderful week of good food , nice accommodations and perfect activities for ages 10 - 74. Our guides were caring and fun. No complaints at all. Highly recommend this trip.

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Our family had a wonderful week of good food , nice accommodations and perfect activities…

"Our family had a wonderful week of good food , nice accommodations and perfect activities for ages 10 - 74. Our guides were caring and fun. No complaints at all. Highly recommend this trip. read less

4.9 Stars (166 reviews)

M | January 1970

Ultimate North Island Adventure

Ronald H

"We booked this excursion wanting to see and hike this extraordinary country which it did. However the range of activities we engaged in, snorkelling, mountain biking, Sandboarding, tube rafting added an exciting dimension and perspective by actually experiencing what NZ has to offer. Accommodations were excellent and above expectation; snacks, and sunscreen always available. Definitely recommend!

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We booked this excursion wanting to see and hike this extraordinary country which it did.…

"We booked this excursion wanting to see and hike this extraordinary country which it did. However the range of activities we engaged in, snorkelling, mountain biking, Sandboarding, tube rafting added an exciting dimension and perspective by actually experiencing what NZ has to offer. Accommodations were excellent and above expectation; snacks, and sunscreen always available. Definitely recommend! read less

4.7 Stars (336 reviews)

R | November 7200

Great Walks of New Zealand

Margaret M

"Liana & Kelly were fabulous guides & I loved every minute of my trip. The accommodation, food & walks were all great.

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Liana & Kelly were fabulous guides & I loved every minute of my trip. The…

"Liana & Kelly were fabulous guides & I loved every minute of my trip. The accommodation, food & walks were all great. read less

4.7 Stars (128 reviews)

M | January 1970

New Zealand Walking Adventure

Don K

"This trip provided a variety of hikes through beautiful rain forests, beaches and mountains. We were always given a choice between an easier hike and a more strenuous hike. I would highly recommend the Heli-Hike on Franz Josef glacier. It was a unique and very memorable experience. Mel and Kayla were excellent guides for this trip. Most of the meals were prepared and cooked by Mel and Kayla and they provided a variety of delicious meals. They also made accommodations for those with dietary restrictions. Mel provided a sarcastic wit and was very knowledgeable with answering questions. She was also an amazing driver through some very windy roads with a bus and attached trailer to navigate. Mel and Kayla provided a fun, safe, delicious and adventurous trip. I highly recommend this trip for anyone looking to hike, kayak and wine taste in an absolutely beautiful country.

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This trip provided a variety of hikes through beautiful rain forests, beaches and mountains. We…

"This trip provided a variety of hikes through beautiful rain forests, beaches and mountains. We were always given a choice between an easier hike and a more strenuous hike. I would highly recommend the Heli-Hike on Franz Josef glacier. It was a unique and very memorable experience. Mel and Kayla were excellent guides for this trip. Most of the meals were prepared and cooked by Mel and Kayla and they provided a variety of delicious meals. They also made accommodations for those with dietary restrictions. Mel provided a sarcastic wit and was very knowledgeable with answering questions. She was also an amazing driver through some very windy roads with a bus and attached trailer to navigate. Mel and Kayla provided a fun, safe, delicious and adventurous trip. I highly recommend this trip for anyone looking to hike, kayak and wine taste in an absolutely beautiful country. read less

4.8 Stars (387 reviews)

D | January 1970

Ultimate North Island Adventure

Keith S

"My ultimate north island trip was outstanding. The trip was extensive, well thought through and as promised 'Active'. A good trip was made exceptional by the contribution of our guides Luke and Noah. Thier knowledge, insight, attention to detail and helpfulness could not have been better.

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My ultimate north island trip was outstanding. The trip was extensive, well thought through and…

"My ultimate north island trip was outstanding. The trip was extensive, well thought through and as promised 'Active'. A good trip was made exceptional by the contribution of our guides Luke and Noah. Thier knowledge, insight, attention to detail and helpfulness could not have been better. read less

4.7 Stars (336 reviews)

K | January 1970

Ultimate North Island Adventure

Jennie C

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

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Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.7 Stars (336 reviews)

J | January 1970

Classic South Island Adventure

Jennifer K

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

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Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.7 Stars (1725 reviews)

J | January 1970

Classic South Island Adventure

Andrea L

"This trip was outstanding! I cannot think of a single thing that could have been better. I loved our guides. They were delightful and showed personal care for each one of us. They made every single moment of the trip fun.
Unfortunately I injured my ankle early on and the guides were able to accommodate me and help me continue safely with the activities.

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This trip was outstanding! I cannot think of a single thing that could have been…

"This trip was outstanding! I cannot think of a single thing that could have been better. I loved our guides. They were delightful and showed personal care for each one of us. They made every single moment of the trip fun.
Unfortunately I injured my ankle early on and the guides were able to accommodate me and help me continue safely with the activities. read less

4.7 Stars (1725 reviews)

A | January 1970

Ultimate South Island Adventure

Gurameen C

"Certainly! Here's a revised version:

Greg and Kim are an exceptional team, and our experience with them was truly memorable. Kim's culinary skills created an array of delightful dishes that had us savoring every bite. From appetizers to main courses, each plate was a testament to her culinary expertise, leaving a lasting impression.

On the other hand, Greg's knowledge of New Zealand and its diverse birdlife brought a unique and engaging element to our stay. His passion for the subject was evident in the captivating stories he shared, turning casual conversations into fascinating insights about the country's avian wonders.

What made this duo stand out was their seamless collaboration. Kim's dishes perfectly complemented the natural beauty of New Zealand that Greg so passionately described. The combination of exquisite cuisine and enriching discussions created an immersive experience that exceeded our expectations.

Greg and Kim's genuine warmth and expertise made our stay not just a vacation but an exploration of taste and nature. Whether through a mouthwatering meal crafted by Kim or an intriguing bird-related anecdote shared by Greg, their unique blend of talents turned our time into a delightful, well-rounded experience.

read more

Certainly! Here's a revised version:

Greg and Kim are an exceptional team, and our experience with…

"Certainly! Here's a revised version:

Greg and Kim are an exceptional team, and our experience with them was truly memorable. Kim's culinary skills created an array of delightful dishes that had us savoring every bite. From appetizers to main courses, each plate was a testament to her culinary expertise, leaving a lasting impression.

On the other hand, Greg's knowledge of New Zealand and its diverse birdlife brought a unique and engaging element to our stay. His passion for the subject was evident in the captivating stories he shared, turning casual conversations into fascinating insights about the country's avian wonders.

What made this duo stand out was their seamless collaboration. Kim's dishes perfectly complemented the natural beauty of New Zealand that Greg so passionately described. The combination of exquisite cuisine and enriching discussions created an immersive experience that exceeded our expectations.

Greg and Kim's genuine warmth and expertise made our stay not just a vacation but an exploration of taste and nature. Whether through a mouthwatering meal crafted by Kim or an intriguing bird-related anecdote shared by Greg, their unique blend of talents turned our time into a delightful, well-rounded experience. read less

4.7 Stars (4482 reviews)

G | January 1970

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