about us
Active Downunder was formed in 2002 by Jane Turner, a native New Zealander, originally from Wellington. Jane formed the company to combine an expert, firsthand knowledge of her beautiful native country with her passion for travel, culture, nature and the outdoors.
Active Downunder is a boutique travel company specializing in New Zealand, Australia and South Pacific Islands offering highly customized vacations for the discerning traveler. For over 20 years we've used our expert destination knowledge, local connections and personalized service to guide our clients to the real people, places and experiences at each destination.
We design trips for all travel styles: independent travelers, private driver/guide, escorted touring, train journeys, cruises or private charters. We’ll guide you to the absolute must see places, along with experiences tailored to your personal interests (maybe it’s wine, wildlife or hiking). At the end of the day you’ll always enjoy a high level of comfort.
We also offer travel planning to other countries through the use of in-country partners who create amazing itineraries for our clients.
Our goal is to create the perfect vacation, matched to our clients unique set of needs, allowing them to focus on fun, relaxation and enjoying their trip. Once we know your personal travel style and interests, the world’s your oyster!
Jane Turner - Owner / Founder
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Jane grew up in Wellington, New Zealand and is of Maori descent. She has family in both New Zealand & Australia and retains fond memories of childhood vacations to her mother's homeland, Australia. She's lived in the US for twenty years, after living in the UK and Japan. A love of travel and passion for the outdoors prompted her to guide walking tours in New Zealand for several years. During that time, she walked all of the major guided tracks in New Zealand, and gained an understanding of what makes for a well-rounded vacation. A background in marketing and entrepreneurial endeavors coupled with her extensive experience on the ground, set the stage for Jane to start Active Downunder in 2002.
Jane travels back to New Zealand & Australia several times each year, attending trade shows, scouting new experiences and accommodations, spending time with the people who are hosting our clients, and of course trying out new restaurants and local wines! Jane’s interests include rock climbing, surfing, yoga, cycling, swimming, skiing and hiking (tramping as the Kiwis call it!) along wtih spending time with her handsome lab/retriever, Dillon. Her philosophy on life is that it’s better to invest in experiences than things. Jane has volunteered as a Big Sister as part of the 'Big Brother Big Sister' program. In 2014 Jane was chosen as 'Big Sister of the Year' in San Diego for their Bigs in Schools program.