Tailor-Made New Zealand & Australian Self Drive Itineraries
Welcome to New Zealand, a land renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and vibrant cultural heritage. Nestled in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, this enchanting country captivates with its stunning natural beauty, from snow-capped mountains to pristine beaches, lush rainforests to picturesque lakes. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring tapestry of New Zealand's landscapes, straight out of a dream.
Beyond its scenic wonders, New Zealand is a melting pot of cultures, influenced by its indigenous Māori heritage, European roots, and vibrant Pacific and Asian communities. This cultural fusion is reflected in art, cuisine, and warm hospitality.
Let our experienced team of local Kiwi experts, with over 30 years in the tourism industry, guide you in planning your trip of a lifetime. Trust us to provide peace of mind as we help create unforgettable memories in this remarkable destination.
Try us you’ll like us we’re LOCAL - you’ll meet us!
Geoff
Libby
Wonderful, fantastic, fun – this tour was all of these. We felt like we were really seeing New Zealand, not just places the tourists go. Geoff Venning, a native, is offering the tour for the first time, and we were among the first to experience it. Geoff and his wife Libby operate Real New Zealand Tours. The tour started with a drive around Christchurch to see the highlights, including a walk through the Botanic Gardens, which were quite colorful when we were there in late September. Then, Geoff headed just outside of town. We stopped to pick up prepared box lunches – individual charcuterie boards that looked like works of art thanks to their creative arrangement. That’s where we met Donnie, a delightful American miniature horse, who liked carrots as much as we liked him. Leaving Donnie, Geoff took us down a gravel road among rolling green hills dotted with sheep that ended at Glenafric Farm, a sheep and cattle farm overlooking the water near Waipara in North Canterbury. We were greeted by two wandering sheep before meeting Judith and her son James and grandson William, who live there. We enjoyed our lunch with them on Judith’s terrace which had a spectacular view of the farm and the bay. Then we visited the sheep. We watched their tails wag as we fed them from a bottle. Great fun. William and his dad invited us to join them as James sheared a sheep; and they showed us the different types of wool from their sheep and how they process it for sale. And, for anyone into collecting, James has a collection of vintage tractors that might be of interest. Leaving the farm, we got a second chance to enjoy the beautiful rolling hills along the gravel road back to the main highway. But that wasn’t the end of the excursion. On the way back to Christchurch, Geoff took us to picturesque “georges road” winery and vineyard for a tasting. We sampled whites, reds and a rose and laughed at one of the winery’s logos – a furry dog balancing a wine glass on his nose with the caption “# balanceiseverything.” We had to purchase a t-shirt adorned with the balancing act before leaving to return to our Christchurch hotel. Thanks, Geoff, for a fantastic time, a lot of fun, and a great memory to take home.
- Cathy & Adelaide - USA
We didn't know what to expect on our trip to the South Island in New Zealand, but our travel agent did an amazing job in planning our vacation. We had a few requirements and while we changed our minds a few times along the way, he was always quick to respond - especially given the 17 hour time differential!
Our travel agent made us feel so comfortable and at ease, that our trip transitioned from a "guided tour with a local" to a "road trip with a friend". We were keen on photos, so he always ensured that we had our photo opportunities, while sharing knowledge of our surroundings and the culture.
If we wanted to add or amend our itinerary, he never made a fuss, simply went with the flow - maybe it's the kiwi way, but definitely a great trait to have as a tour guide!
I believe this agent really listened to our requests because we were able to check off all of the boxes that were on our wish list! He was also a great calming force during my bungee jumping excursion! We even got to experience his local rugby team with him - another impromptu add on and one that I will always cherish. Rugby for the 1st time in Christchurch is a great way to get indoctrinated.
Although we were on the other side of the world - he did an amazing job in making us feel like we were at "home" with a much better view - the kiwi view! I'm already trying to figure out how to get back to the north island with this travel agent and his company!
Vilma, Houston, Texas, USA.
- Vilma, Houston, Texas USA.
The Tongariro Crossing was amazing. It is well worth the strenuous nature of the hike. The views were amazing. We had near perfect weather with partly clear skies and comfortable temperature for hiking.
~ Ben and Kim.
Photo: Enjoying the Tongariro Crossing
- Barbara & Kim, US
Geoff - We got the gift! Thank you for the lovely coasters!
We have had a fantastic time here. I can say without a doubt my number 1 experience was the canopy tours. We are closing out the trip with a relaxing harbor tour which is good as we are both pretty tired. It was a great trip.
Thanks again for putting such a fantastic experience together for us!
~ Ben
- Ben Lockwood, USA
Geoff is an awesome guy! - and his Travel Agency. He worked with me to plan this trip over 3 1/2 years ago. Due to COVID it was postponed twice and, as time went on, I made changes and he adapted and re-worked the itinerary excellently.
He made great suggestions and listened to my ideas with a great sense of humor and seriousness, booking the perfect Bed & Breakfast Inns in Christchurch and Lake Te Anau and other pristine locations.
The tour he booked for me to see Hobbiton was the best choice, including a delicious lunch buffet!
There was no hassle over prices, they were very reasonable and kept within my budget.
Hooker Valley Mount Cook National park
- Jonalyn, Arkansas, USA
To Geoff and Libby,
Thank you both again for such a wonderful vacation and all of your hospitality while Vilma and I were in New Zealand. I’ve been raving to everyone about how wonderful the trip was and am forwarding your information to folks that are expressing an interest, and hopefully you will get some more business from referrals in the future!! ...
Photo: Julie and Vilma.
- Julie, Houston, Texas, USA
The 5 week New Zealand journey arranged for us by Geoff and Libby at Real New Zealand Tours was amazing. They did an excellent job of listening to our interests and travel preferences, making changes to our itinerary until we were satisfied. It was great to have someone in New Zealand available by phone whenever needed during out trip. Geoff responded quickly to all inquiries before and during our travel.
New Zealand is an amazing country - stunning landscapes constantly change over short distances of travel, opportunity for adventure throughout the country and the unique flora and fauna.
The whole country, North and South islands were amazing. Favorites were Abel Tasman National Park, Mt Cook, Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Milford Sound, Queenstown paragliding and fly fishing south of Taupo. We enjoyed having an itinerary that allowed us to explore areas on our own vs having every minute planned.
- Barbara & Kim, Chicago, USA
