About Thrifty Tours New Zealand

Travel Specialist

I have worked as a New Zealand travel specialist for many years, so I know plenty of hidden gems and local secrets across the country.  When I'm not at work planning other peoples awesome holidays, I love to get out on my mountain bike and also catch as many live music concerts as I can!

My favourite place: Hot Water Beach. At this amazing location, you can dig a hole in the sand and wait for the thermally heated water to rise up, creating your own personal hot pool!

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Travel Specialist

Australian's like myself LOVE New Zealand. The cities are small and full of character and you're never too far from an adventure.  Send me an email today and let's kick start your holiday now!

My favourite place: Queenstown, like me you'll love the adventure!

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Travel Specialist

Before I joined Thrifty Tours, I spent time on the ice at Scott Base in Antarctica and worked as a travel guide in New Zealand. Now I look forward to helping you explore in New Zealand. As an avid chocolate fan I also encourage you to try our delicious Whittakers, the creamy milk is something special!

My favourite place: Cape Reinga at the top of the North Island, it's not just beautiful, the sandboarding there is fantastic fun.

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Travel Specialist

I was born in South Africa and spent many years living in London, now I am enjoying the calm pace of life and serenity in New Zealand. Wanaka is a great spot to call home, but there are so many places to enjoy.  I am happy to take your ideas and design you a tour that will stay in your memory forever.

My favourite place: Waitomo, adventuring in the Waitomo caves was one of the best adventures I have ever had and an absolute must-do on any North Island tour.

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Travel Specialist

My accent is a bit of a giveaway when we talk on the phone, but although I am from England, I love New Zealand! What a cool place to visit.  Since I have lived in Wanaka I have been so lucky to be able to get outside and enjoy the world on my doorstep; hiking, skiing, climbing, swimming, kayaking, mountain biking... there's not much you can't do here.

My favourite place: The Bay of Islands, Winterless north? Yeh ok!

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Travel Specialist

For over 20 years I have been showing people the world, and I love it. It is great to be able to piece together people's New Zealand wish lists whilst and share the awesome place I call home. When I am not planning unique NZ tours I can be found juggling 2 busy children at home in beautiful Wanaka.

My favourite place: Doubtful Sound

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Travel Specialist

I have lived in New Zealand for four and a half years now and I love it! After travelling to over 40 countries I have fallen in love with the beauty and ease of New Zealand. I have a passion for travel and me and my awesome team would love to help you get here and enjoy the very best of this country has to offer.

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My favourite place: Queenstown, full of adventure or lazy lake days.

Travel Specialist

I walked the 3000km Te Araroa trail from the top to the bottom of New Zealand and fell in love with the amazing landscape and friendly locals. I love any chance to have an adventure and am excited to show you how much New Zealand has to offer.

My favourite place: Tongariro National Park, the landscape is like nothing I’ve seen before

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Travel Specialist

I have travelled extensively both solo as well as a guide. I have experienced many beautiful moments as well as situations that did not go 100% according to plan. The amazing adventures taught me how to appreciate life and the world around me. Those that were not perfect helped me learn how to keep my calm and resolve tricky situations. My aim is to create trouble-free, memorable holidays that will make my clients leave NZ with a smile on their faces. 

My favourite place: Wanaka - there are incredible mountains, hiking trails, scenic roads for motorbike touring, lakes for kayaking, as well as amazing camping spots

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Travel Specialist

I am lucky enough to be a born and raised kiwi and there is something special about being able to sell your home country to people overseas and knowing that you will give them the most amazing experience from chatting to a local. I can recommend hiking trails and activities to get you out and enjoying the serenity and beauty of this place I call home.

My favourite place: Rotorua, there is always something happening, great nature, adventure and cultural experiences.

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Travel Specialist

I am originally from the Yarra Valley, a stunning wine region in Australia and I have many amazing memories from my travels throughout. After falling in love with the South Island of New Zealand, I relocated to Wanaka to continue exploring all this beautiful country has to offer. From the lakes and mountains to skiing, hiking and exploring all the amazing cuisine. I am passionate about sharing this beautiful place and am excited to help plan your next dream holiday.

My favourite place: Abel Tasman National Park, it combines so many of my loves, beaches, hiking, and biking and Nelson is full of art and culinary adventures.

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Travel Specialist

First experiencing the South Island on a family road trip as a child, I still find I can't get enough of the stunning scenery our country has to offer. Coming off a long career as an international travel consultant I'm excited to now be selling New Zealand as a destination and the variety of experiences it has to offer.

My favourite place: The Wild West Coast

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Travel Specialist

Originally from Sydney, Australia, I moved to Wanaka about 5 years ago. I was drawn to New Zealand for its snowboarding and the mountains but found myself falling in love with the summers here too - from Mountain Biking, and Golfing to Jet Boating. I have a passion for travel and love talking about globetrotting as well as seeing how travel makes people feel. At Thrifty Tours, my mission is to share what this stunning country has to offer.

My favourite place: As much as I love Mountain Biking in Queenstown, driving to the Catlins, and camping at the stunning Purakaunui Bay to go surfing is at the top of my list.

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Travel Specialist

Born in Adelaide, Australia, I've travelled to over 30 countries over the past 10 years and New Zealand is where I've chosen to call home. With breathtaking surroundings and a plentiful of hidden gems to be explored. The mountains are why I came but the culture and experiences are why I stay and what I want to share with the rest of the world.

My favourite place: Kaikoura - brings the mountains and the sea into one place. You can’t beat the fresh seafood and small town vibes this place brings.

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Travel Specialist

I am New Zealand Maori born, and grew up on the North Shore of Auckland. For the last few years I have been living in and exploring the South Island of New Zealand. I spend most of my spare time in the outdoors, hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter. Through my travels I’ve discovered that my own home country is one of the best to explore and enjoy new experiences. From Great Walks, to wine tours, whale watching and exploring the mountains, New Zealand really does have it all. I have many experiences I’d love to share with you to help create your perfect itinerary

My favourite place: Queenstown, as it has it all. Wine tours, adventurous activities like jet boating and bungy jumping, access to some of the Great Walks of NZ, skiing, beautiful restaurants, the list goes on. 

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Travel Specialist

I was originally born in Cairns Australia and when I was 6 years old my parents sold everything and took me and my sister to New Orleans where they bought a sail yacht. We lived on it for 6 years and travelled through the Caribbean and then went through the Panama Canal and spent a bit of time in the South Pacific ocean. We eventually returned to Australia and based ourselves in the Sunshine Coast where I completed high school. After coming to New Zealand on holiday, I instantly fell in love and have now made Wanaka my home. Travelling is a huge part of my childhood and continues to be a major part of my life, it is a deep passion and I am super excited to share that with you when assisting you in creating your perfect holiday.

My favourite place: Wanaka, is my favourite place for many reasons. I love the extreme variations in seasons, from the hot and dry summers to the cold and snowy winters. The vibrant oranges and ambers of autumn and blue skies and blossoms of spring.

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Travel Specialist

I grew up in a small town northwest of Auckland, and while it may have been in the middle of nowhere, I learned to make my own fun and appreciate the little things in life. I am now located in the stunning Wanaka, where the picturesque landscape feels like living on a movie set. My travels, both near and far, have fuelled my love for exploring everything this world has to offer. After studying tourism following high school, I am now equipped with the tools to help you create a once-in-a-lifetime experience in our beautiful country.

My favourite place: Wanaka, every experience you could dream of in one spot. 

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Travel Specialist

Originally from France, I arrived in New Zealand in 2019 and instantly fell in love with the country. New Zealand is ever-changing which makes your travel here such a special and unique experience. I love to go off-the-beaten-track, explore the wilderness and encounter native wildlife. I’ve spent a lot of time exploring the country and I love sharing my passion for this special place with my clients. I am excited to help you create your dream holiday!

My favourite place: Abel Tasman National Park for the beaches, great walks, water activities & the Nelson Market!

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Travel Specialist

Having spent 4 years travelling around Canada, Europe and South America, working across all areas of the ski and hospitality industry, I realised my dream and moved to New Zealand. I spent 4 months travelling in my van, exploring all the sights NZ has to offer and love that I can share my experiences with others looking for an equally amazing time in this beautiful country. Though winter is where I thrive, in summer I still can’t tear myself away from the mountains. I spend my time hiking and rock climbing and love to help others out with where the best spots are!

My favourite place: The Wairarapa Valley has some of the most beautiful hikes I’ve ever done and to rest the sore legs after a long day of hiking it really doesn't get much better than any of the wonderful wineries the area has to offer. Head south to the rugged Cape Palliser and say g’day to the seals en route!

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Travel Specialist

After leaving the UK 10 years ago, I fell in love with New Zealand. Since then, I have been working in the travel industry and organising tours for 9 years. From climbing mountains across New Zealand to kayaking the beautiful blue oceans & lakes, this region has so much to offer. I love a good road trip, and New Zealand easily offers some of the best in the world. Everywhere you look could easily be put on a postcard, so I always advise travellers to make sure their cameras have enough battery life to capture the breathtaking scenery.

My favourite place: Queenstown, the views that hit you as you come through the valley in to the town will never stop impressing me, whether their snow capped in the winter or being lit up by the sun in the summer they will always give you that “wow” factor.

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Travel Specialist

I have always loved to travel and have a passion for sharing this with others. I have visited many countries around the world and nowhere has ever come close to New Zealand. It offers a wide variety of incredible experiences and has something for everyone. The landscapes can't be beaten and there is so much wildlife and natural beauty at every turn. From swimming with dolphins, climbing mountains, rushing down waterfalls, drinking world class wine, flying above glaciers, it really is a magical place. Designing bespoke once in a life time holidays for people to explore this beautiful country is a dream come true. I can't wait to start this journey with you!

My favourite place: Abel Tasman National Park has both beautiful blue oceans, white sandy beaches and big green mountains full of plant life.

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Travel Specialist

I'm a passionate traveller who made Wanaka my home five years ago. New Zealand stole my heart, and I love spreading that love in the travel industry. Creating custom itineraries is my jam, and I've got your back from fiords to alpine trails, and city vibes to lakeside serenity. Let's make your New Zealand dream come true, one personalised journey at a time!

My favourite place: Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, its untouched and natural beauty is utterly unmatched

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Travel Specialist

Born and raised in New Zealand, I have travelled around the country multiple times and have many future travel goals to keep exploring. I would be delighted to help you plan your dream holiday so that you have the trip of a lifetime in New Zealand.

My favourite place is the Abel Tasman National Park, full of spectacular beaches and bays. You can tramp or kayak or you could stay in beautiful Kaiteriteri and lounge on the beach.

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Travel Specialist Support

I am originally from Canada and have been living in New Zealand since 2022. I quickly fell in love with everything that New Zealand has to offer, from its beautiful lakes and beaches to its towering mountains and incredible wildlife. I am passionate about travel and excited to be in a position where I can share my knowledge about New Zealand!

My favourite place: The Bay of Islands, for the beautiful water and endless activities!

Travel Specialist Support

Born and raised in New Zealand’s deep south, I’ve travelled extensively around my home country, particularly the South Island (definitely the best island in my opinion!). My background in conservation and hospitality means I have genuine knowledge of local secrets, wildlife hotspots, and off-the-beaten-track destinations. I also know what to avoid and the best times of year to visit different places and encounter wildlife.

My favourite place: The Catlins; huge variety of diverse landscapes, wildlife and activities within a relatively short drive of each other.

Travel Specialist Support

Originally from Edinburgh, I have been in New Zealand for 11 years now, most of the time living in gorgeous Wanaka. I love being out adventuring, whether that being running, biking, snowboarding, hiking, or camping...and I am never disappointed as there is always some new stunning landscape to discover. I can't wait to show you our little slice of paradise!

My favourite place: Wanaka…so many awesome outdoor activities right at your finger tips!

Travel Specialist Support

Travelling has always been such an amazing thing for me and what I love to do! I have been to over 20 countries and am hoping to tick off plenty more, although New Zealand will always be home. After moving from Auckland to the South Island, I love to show off how beautiful everything is down here to all friends and family visiting. My mission is to prove to the whole world why New Zealand is the best country to be in!

My favourite place: Doubtful Sound. So beautiful and peaceful!

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Travel Specialist Support

I was born and raised in the beautiful Bay of Islands of New Zealand and now reside in Wanaka. I have covered almost every corner of the country but there is always more to explore! We have a strong travel culture and sense of adventure here in NZ, and it’s infectious to everyone who visits. I love our part of the world because of the isolated wild places, and incredible endemic biodiversity that you need to see for yourself to believe!

My favourite place: Queenstown- The scenery is stunning at all times of the year and you never get tired of it. It’s a very central area to explore the magic of the South Island from!

Travel Specialist Support

I grew up in Auckland and moved to the South Island in 2019. I haven't looked back since! One of the best things about living in Wanaka is having easy access to mountains, lakes, rivers, and forests. Travelling is a passion of mine and I take great satisfaction in planning an amazing holiday. As a Kiwi, I'm proud of my country and have travelled extensively throughout New Zealand and I love helping others discover the beauty!

My favourite place: Lake Tekapo

Travel Specialist Support

I studied Travel and Tourism in Scotland, received my degree, and then made the journey to New Zealand to get better weather and see bigger mountains than those I’m used to in Scotland. I've loved planning all my road trips around the North and South Islands of New Zealand and experiencing both the popular (for good reason) and less travelled spots in the country. I’m here to help you do the same and help you have the trip of a lifetime here in New Zealand!

My favourite place: Tongariro National Park offers some serious ‘out of this world’ views. Emerald lakes and volcanics? That's pretty cool.

Sales and Customer Service Manager

A true Kiwi local, with a strong passion for New Zealand including being renowned for my strong southern accent. My career has always been in hospitality and tourism management, varying from reservations to general hotel management. I’m an expert in service delivery to ensure client expectations are exceeded. My in-depth knowledge of New Zealand including the dedication, passion, and care to ensure all clients create the most amazing memories is the reason I love the industry and my role.

My favourite place: Wanaka, due to the pristine mountains, lake and fantastic biking trails.

Key Agent Support

I love the great outdoors so, coming to New Zealand as a Hotel Management student 8 years ago was the best decision I ever made. Spending 7 years in the tourism industry as an assistant manager, I have developed my problem solving skills and am a great asset to anyone who might needs my help.

My favourite place:  Aoraki-Mt.Cook National Park - the mountains and the night sky will leave you speechless…