Christchurch Wildlife, Landscapes and Nature Tours 2022/2023

“This trip was brilliant. Admittedly the fantastic weather we encountered made it even more beautiful, but weather can't replace great people. The whole group was great and entertaining, but the guides Ellie and Elder made it very special. Nothing was too much trouble, their cooking was outstanding and general hospitality skills marvellous. They are a credit to the company and themselves.”

“Initially, I was apprehensive about this trip as it challenged my riding endurance, technical skills and comfort zone. However, I knew there was the back up of a guide and the van. My goal was to keep up as best I could, take copious photos and not fall off the bike. Elder assured me that the bikes were designed for the skiddy gravel I feared and stayed with me at the rear of the pack on the more challenging parts on the big hill looking down on Lake Benmore. He was constantly cheerful and encouraging. Perhaps he is a saint in Real Life? I was advised not to try the 20km part of Rotten Tommy but still enjoyed an amazing helicopter ride. I met up with the group at lunchtime on Braemar Road (after a van ride with Ken, to pick up the salmon for our dinner feast) and completed the rest of the ride successfully. As a group we had a great deal of fun, stayed in comfortable atmospheric accommodation...my favourites were Braemar Lodge and The Brydone, Oamaru. We ate fabulous food. Our guides Elder and Ken are chefs supreme. Gourmet picnics appeared like magic, as we lounged on deck chairs. Cafes and coffee were abundantly provided for. Nothing was too much trouble for our guides. I am now motivated to try more challenging biking trips after this experience.”

“Not only was the scenery amazing and the trip incredibly well organised... Ellie & Elder made this a really memorable experience. Their humour and personal connection with each of us was incredible. I highly recommend it.”