Active Downunder does an amazing job. With this being our first big trip out of the country, we were pretty clueless. Jane held our hand and patiently worked through the haze for us. She targeted perfectly the right places & accommodations. The ease of using a detailed itinerary for each place that we went made a huge difference in our stress level for a 26 day trip. We would use her again in a heartbeat and strongly recommend anyone putting their trust in her & Active Downunder. T & D Erbstoesser, CA - Mar 08
We were delighted with the scheduling of our trip, the quality and the variety of activities and accommodation. All of our lodging and locations were special - especially Awaroa Lodge - I just loved everything about it! Our hosts were gracious and very helpful in providing information that we needed to make the most of our stay. They were also all proud of their association with Active Downunder. You have a great knowledge and a keen sense of your customers' interests and needs. The trip was most memorable - thanks very much! W & P Burns, MN - Feb 08
Following your itinerary was like following a treasure map with wonderful surprises at every turn! The pace was perfect, one day where it was right then two days interspersed. The owners of the B & B's were incredible - It was hard leaving each place because of their hospitality and attention to our every need. Our guide, Allen, for the Marlborough wine tour & Greenshell Mussel cruise was loaded with personality and jokes and it couldn't have been a better day. We had picture-perfect weather when we took the Heli walk on Fox Glacier, and for our Doubtful Sound excursion (calm waters with playful dolphins and penguins). All in all, you did an outstanding job and were well thought of with each of our owners. The relationships you have developed greatly enhanced our experiences in New Zealand. It was a most amazing, incredible, memorable trip. We wanted to drive from the North to the South & catch as much as we could in the time there--you accomplished this for us and took the stress factor out. Judy & Ed Hoerster, IL - Feb 08
This was our honeymoon, a trip you want to remember forever. Well, it was that and more. Our agent, Jane Turner was the best!!! She gave us a questionaire about what we wanted to do, what level of accomodations, interests, etc. Well, we wouldn't have changed a thing, it was perfect. In fact we felt everyday was more fun than the last. All of our activities were timed perfectly -- a feat that could only be accomplished by one from New Zealand. A true highlight was the surfing that Jane arranged with a local instructor in Kaikoura. A great experience, and what a location - sapphire blue water and beautiful mountains, who could ask more anything more. It was one of the best days of surf in years! Thanks for all the memories!!! J. Simandl, NY - Feb 08
New Zealand is an amazing place with wonderful people. Jane Turner and Active Downunder really helped us plan a trip to show us more of New Zealand than we would have hoped to on our own. She really knows how to combine an independent, active vacation with luxury! We loved the small inns that we stayed at where the personal touch was a nice antedote to large hotels. When we had guides, they were genuinely friendly and interested in showing you New Zealand. What a wonderful trip! J. Law Courter MD - CA - Feb 08
We would like to thank you for the wonderful trip you put together for us. Everything worked seamlessly, the weather was great, the Kiwis great, and we are convinced that your expertise is what brought it all together. Our Queenstown accommodation was a wonderful choice. We loved our room with a view. We did our Routeburn Day walk with Peter, the owner of Guided Nature Walks and we can't say enough good things about him and the day we spent with him. The Miharotia in Kaikoura was perfect - Polly was a great hostess and the accomodations were superb. We did see whales, seals, and dolphins and got to eat Crayfish. It was a great mix of B&B's, lodges, and hotels. Having all the tours booked made everything so simple. We are thinking this was just a "probe" into your beautiful country and we are already planning to make a return visit and see Abel Tasman, Napier, wine country, etc. Thanks again! R & J Steele, Feb 08
This was our second trip planned with Active Downunder. We loved it! It was just what we wanted -- relaxing, interesting, convivial, and beautiful. We'll be back. - J & E Redish, MD - Feb 08
We wanted this trip to be a special one (to celebrate our 45th anniversary) and it certainly was. Working with Jane and Active Downunder made the planning simple and stress free. She listened to all our wishes and she met and exceeded them. Every place we stayed was thrilled with her professional attitude and attention to detail, as were we. They spoke of her as a friend, and I think we got better service because she had done her job so well. We never could have replicated this on our own. It was the best trip we've ever had - and we've had lots of them. Many, many thanks! - Polly & Fred Watts, VI - Jan 08
This trip was perfect. The Hollyford Track 3 Day Wilderness Journey was the true highlight of our trip - a trampers (hikers) dream, filled with unbelievable beauty! The friendliness and knowledge of our guide added a dimension we would have missed if we'd walked alone. We also cannot say enough about our experience at Wilderness Lodge Arthur's Pass. We participated in their one day guided hike - this was one of our favorite parts of the trip. Rob was outstanding as a host and guide. Our stay at the Wilderness Lodge was the PERFECT way to end our time in New Zealand. This was a trip of a lifetime, and we can't imagine a vacation that could come close to being as perfect for us as this was! D & S Walker, MI - Dec 07 Learn more about this package!
A wonderful trip and an amazing experience. We loved New Zealand and
would love to go back. The White Island Heli-Tour was unbelievable - a
real highlight of the trip. Kudos to Jane for planning a fantastic
vacation on very little notice--during Christmas week! We would
recommend Active Downunder to anyone considering a trip to New Zealand. Mendelsohn Family, NY - Jan 08
We would highly recommend visiting New Zealand to anyone. Active Downunder truly made it a memorable trip. The small details made it most enjoyable. Our honeymoon was like a fairly tale, filled with beaches and glaciers, wonderful hosts, beautiful rooms, great food, etc. The trip had a nice pace, where we could relax or be busy, whatever mood struck us. We are telling all of our friends to contact Active Downunder if they ever want to see New Zealand! Newlyweds Bryan & Maria, GA, Nov 07
We had a glorious time in New Zealand. We are so happy we connected with you. So many places we arrived at in New Zealand said 'oh, Jane from Active Downunder sent you'. It was clear you are much appreciated by your fellow Kiwi's. Starting out in Picton at McCormick House was so enjoyable, what lovely hosts. We love Huntley House and swimming with the dolphins at Akaroa was amazing. The Wilderness Lodges were great. The high country sheep muster was a thrill to experience. The day we spent with Gerry McSweeney was so memorable. He is a font of information and enthusiasm. We loved the overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound. The crew members were all so pleasant and genuine. The Stewart Island and Ulva Island experience was amazing. New Zealand is a unique place on the planet. The guides we had throughout the trip really enhanced our appreciation and sense of wonder. The natural beauty in New Zealand is astonishing. We really value the itinerary you prepared - 'Nature Lovers New Zealand' - and the experiences you recommended. Thank you so much. Florence and Phil Ernzen, MI - Mar 07
I have been meaning to let you know how incredible your country is
!!!!!!!! We had the most wonderful time -the country, your people, the
great food and wine. We spent 21 days and had only 36 hrs of rain (bit
of a drought). And I am particularly grateful for your help in
recommending the Wilderness Journey on the Hollyford Track - great
guides, huts and 12 fellow Aussie trampers - it was so interesting and
beautiful. But I did lose my heart to Doubtful Sound - WOW WOW - the
high point of the trip and up there with the great times in my life!!!
Thank you for all your help! E. Quinlan, NY - Feb 07
We are just back from taking your 'Naturally New Zealand' vacation.
What a wonderful trip! The areas you sent us were so different from
each other and each beautiful. The places we stayed were outstanding
(we felt pampered). One of my favorite accommodations was 'Lime Tree
Lodge'. We loved the friendly people; breathtaking scenery; deliciously
fresh food and the weather (only a few days of rain)! The tours were
wonderful. My husband's favorite was the Waipoua Forest Twilight
Encounter walk; while mine was the day we toured the Otago Peninsula in
a 40 year old jaguar - mostly due to our guide, Bruce, a delightful
fellow. We enjoyed the day with him so much (he even invited us to his
home for tea at the end of the day). The guided glacier walk and both
of the scenic flight tours (and cruise of Milford Sound) were also
great experiences. I really can't think of anything that we would
change. Thank you, thank you, thank you. This was a trip of a lifetime
for us. S. Bourn, CO - Feb 07
Our trip to New Zealand was our most enjoyable ever! We contacted
Active Downunder because we were having trouble deciding upon a plan.
Jane took our sketchy ideas and created a very detailed itinerary.
Highlights were Dart River Safari & the Doubtful Sound Overnight
Cruise (something we would not have found without Jane's help).
Queenstown was extremely enjoyable and we were glad that we did the
self-drive from Queenstown to Fox Glacier that Jane suggested. Not only
did we get many photos at the glacier, but also along the way. The
Tranz Alpine Train was also good for photos. The morning Salt Air
scenic flight from the Bay of Islands to Cape Reinga was impressive,
arriving at the cape early enough to pretty much have it to ourselves.
After a couple of busy weeks it was very relaxing to lounge by the
water in Russell and Paihia. All accommodations were excellent and
within walking distance of interesting activities. The only complaint
we have is that we couldn’t stay a few weeks longer. We can hardly wait
until our next trip. Thanks again, Jane. Len and Sue, Irvine, CA – Feb 07
Thank you for a perfectly planned trip Jane. From Wellington to
Dunedin, an unforgettable trip. I've never stayed in such elegant
places, from the boutique hotels to B & B's, our hosts were all so
helpful and hospitable. Huntley House in Christchurch was exceptional
and I've never had such succulent lamb as Bryan, the chef, cooked. It
was extroadinary. Our 'Lord of the Rings' tours were so much fun and I
loved our walk on the Routeburn Track. Our last day with Jeff on the
Otago Peninsula with the albatross, sea lions and especially Bob, the
penguin, was very special. Thank you so much. Sincerely, J. Albersheim, CO - Jan 07
Our customized Active Downunder tour of New Zealand was absolutely
wonderful. Jane planned our itinerary so well that we never felt
rushed. And yet we saw so many incredible places and so much wildlife,
we can hardly believe we fit it all into two weeks. Each tour guide was
delightful, and so knowledgable about their part of New Zealand. And
each lodge was a very special place where we felt pampered and
comfortable. And then there was the fabulous food! We especially loved
the McCormick House in Picton, RiverRun in Wanaka and the Huntley House
in Christchurch. We have to go back to New Zealand because we know
there is so much more to see, and the best way is to have Kiwis arrange
the trip. Renee, CO - Jan 07
Hello and thank you Jane Turner, Our trip to New Zealand was very
enjoyable and we would like to thank you for the very thoughtful and
thorough itinerary. We found New Zealand and the people to be open and
friendly. Your prepared itinerary allowed for us to see and experience
the very best that New Zealand and Jane Turner had to offer. The
Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise was incredible and very professionally
operated. Please know that we would not hesitate recommending you to
our friends and/or anyone interested in seeing New Zealand. Gracias para totdos, Dr. J Wardle, Phd & Dr. J. Baez-Ramos, Phd, WA - Jan 07
Just a quick note to tell you that the trip was perfect!! All the
flights were on time, the people friendly and the natural beauty
magnificent. The trip kept getting better each day with highlights
including the heli-hike at Fox Glacier. The overnight cruise on
Doubtful Sound was great - first day sun and then rain just enough for
the waterfalls to be in full flow. The 3 Day Wilderness Journey on the
Hollyford Track was perfect. The second day it poured but Eileen had
the best time of all splashing through the rivers. The flight up
Milford Sound on the last day was a perfect climax. Thanks for
everything! Dr. Harold and Eileen Horwitz, RI - Dec 06
Nick and I had an absolutely fantastic time on our trip to New Zealand.
The itinerary you prepared for us was planned perfectly, down to the
minute, we enjoyed it all so much! All activity guides were
professional, knowledgeable and friendly. (We especially enjoyed Peter
& Gary while hiking Cape Brett in the Bay of Islands!!) Our
accommodations were simply stunning and our hosts delightful. They took
care of our every need. Peter from Cliff Edge prepared for us the most
exquisite meal during our stay. From digging our hot water spa, hiking
Fox Glacier, rafting the Shotover River, to the overnight cruise on the
Doubtful Sound, we could not have asked for more. We truly had the trip
of a lifetime! We would wholeheartedly recommend you and Active
Downunder to anyone interested in planning a trip to New Zealand! Nick and Emily, NY - Nov 06
We’re back from New Zealand and just wanted to let you know we loved
everything you planned for us and had wonderful adventures! We asked
you to give us our own ‘Amazing Race’ adventure, and you actually
exceeded our expectations! Between Black-water Rafting through caves to
Kayaking in the Abel Tasman (with visits from friendly seals included)
to taking on The Triple Challenge (a helicopter ride, whitewater
rafting and jetboating), to seeing a just-born calf from the window of
our B&B, we had the vacation of a lifetime. After all of the things
you planned for us, it seemed like the next natural step was skydiving–
something I have always wanted to do - it was spectacular! Each of the
places you booked for us were great, although one B&B, Country
Villa in Rotorua, stood out. The owners Anneke and John went out of
their way to make us feel like honored guests in their exquisite home.
Anneke is a wonderful cook who indulged us with delicious homemade
breakfasts and freshly baked bread every day! What a lovely experience.
Thank you for all your great planning! We are so pleased to have worked
with you and will be sure to recommend you. R. Bruce, NY – Aug 06
Our first visit to New Zealand in Nov 2005 was a dream come true,
thanks to Jane Turner and her exceptional skills at planning the best
vacation we’ve ever experienced. We are so grateful for hearing about
her and Active Downunder from friends who enjoyed a similar itinerary –
one month spent leisurely and independently exploring the North and
South islands. Jane’s attention to details made our 26 days flow
seamlessly – from air travel to car rental to exquisite lodgings to
kayaking and hiking treks to vineyard excursions to Kauri forest tramps
to cruising fiords and boating the bays to fine dining to meeting the
most friendly people anywhere – the New Zealanders! We will always
treasure the sights and sounds and warmth of this magnificent country.
Our most sincere thanks to Jane for making it all possible. We will
return! B and M Kennedy, NH, Nov 05
Thanks for a great trip with memories for a long-time to come! Barbara
and I very much enjoyed our recent NZ trip; thanks for your
considerable guidance and many arrangements! Your services were
excellent, and you obviously enjoy a reputation for quality and service
in NZ. We are happy to recommend your services to others wanting to
travel to NZ. So, again, thanks for your assistance! G. Porter, WA, Nov 05
We had the trip of a lifetime in New Zealand! Active Downunder met with
us and provided a tailor made experience for our group which not only
took in our interests but matched it with the culture and contour of
the country. The sights, the sounds and the food were superb. Perhaps
our greatest joy was getting to meet Kiwis whose passion for life and
their invidividual calling provided us with personal inspiration. The
only way to top our trip is to come back! Fenwick W. English,President, CMSI, Johnston, Iowa - Jan 05
Active Downunder did a spectacular job of anticipating our likes and dislikes and put together an adventure which was beyond our wildest expectations. It was really great to have most of the big decisions about accommodations, transportation and scheduling already made for us so we could concentrate on enjoying our time in New Zealand. Using vouchers instead of cash or credit cards was a real convenience.
We got the impression that Active Downunder was on personal terms or had first-hand knowledge with all the B&B owners and various tour companies, because the accommodations were all top-notch and the activities were refreshing and a lot of fun. Our trip was the perfect combination of light physical activity (hiking and kayaking) plus more leisurely touring (coach tours and walkarounds). I would definitely recommend Active Downunder to anyone considering a trip to New Zealand, especially if it is their first trip and they are not sure how to best spend the time. Our experience was a trip of a lifetime! Michael Powers, San Diego, CA, Feb 04
We wanted a trip to New Zealand on our own, fairly active experiencing
all the major attractions plus some local attractions. We did not want
to drive the whole thing and we had a month. Active Downunder planned
all our stays, lodges, hotels and B&Bs. They booked all our
activities, hiking, glacier hiking, kayaking and cultural events. It
was PERFECT! Our trip was perfectly timed and exactly what we wanted. I
recommend Active Downunder and would talk with anyone about our
experience. H. Mason, Hood River, OR, Oct 04
I just wanted to say thanks for putting together one of my best
vacations ever (and we travel quite a bit)! Everything went well, it
was a stress free vacation. We usually stay at hotels but I am really
glad Jane picked small B&B, lodge type places. One of the many
highlights was meeting many different people from all over the world.
Another highlight was the 3 Day Wilderness Journey into one of the most
remote areas we have ever been. The rainforest was unreal! It was a
very active vacation, which we loved. Thank you very much for the trip
of a lifetime! R. Matsui, Los Angeles, CA, Nov 04
This was an outstanding experience for us. Maybe the best so far. We
discovered Active Downunder on the Tourism New Zealand website and were
attracted to the name. We called, left a number and time to call. Jane
Turner called us right on time! This was a great start. We subsequently
talked for an hour or more during which time Jane asked us about our
travel interests, likes & dislikes, desires, length of trip and our
budget. Two weeks later a first draft of the itinerary arrived. We made
only two minor changes. She must have really listened to what we said,
the plan was almost perfect! We received all documents on time and the
trip went without a hitch. We loved the mix of driving, walking and
guided tours. What a great country to see. Staying in small inns
enhanced the experience. New Zealanders are wonderful people! There
were too many highlights to mention. We plan to return to New Zealand
again. We will not go without Janes help! L Morison, Ipswich, MA, Nov 04