Uniquely Kiwi activities and accommodations

Off the Mapp cottages are located on a working farm blessed with the most spectacular mountain scenery, best viewed from the outdoor bathtubs that overlook the Waihopai River. There are a number of onsite activities to keep your family entertained, including conservation and farm related, as well as old-school fun like rafting down the river in an inner tube. Off the Mapp is located near Blenheim and all of the wonderful Marlborough wineries.

Eco Wanaka offers a range of informative small group tours to a variety of spectacular locations around Wanaka and within Mt Aspiring National Park - the filming location for Bear Grylls' popular ‘Get Out Alive' TV show.  For Chris Riley, co-owner and guide, this is his backyard and what he will share with you about the flora and fauna is remarkable. The tour to Mou Waho Island Nature Reserve includes a scenic cruise and guided walk to Arethusa Pool, where you will see the unusual phenomenon of an island within a lake on an island within a lake.

Wilderness lodge Lake Moeraki - the ultimate wilderness retreat where can intimately experience one of the great untouched wilderness regions of the World - the South West New Zealand World Heritage Area, Te Wahipounamu. Energized by your delicious lodge breakfast, explore by kayak or foot the wildlife that calls this special corner of New Zealand home. During Spring watch the Tamaki Penguins come ashore to feed their young. In Summer sunbathing New Zealand Fur Seal will litter the beach. With two complimentary activities a day you will become an expert on the region, thanks to Gerry - your guide/lodge owner/conservationist who also happens to have a PhD in Biology. At night return to the lodge for fine dining and views of the clearest night sky you will ever see.

Rotorua Canopy Tours offers an exhilarating way to experience their fabulous forest, the native Tawa trees, tree ferns (Punga) and much more. As you journey through this forgotten wilderness you'll hear the calls of the native birds, including North Island Robins. You'll learn about the forest, the wildlife that lives here and the amazing work this passionate group of people (and you) are doing to ensure the bird song continue for visitors to enjoy.

Tarata Fishaway Lodge is always popular with visitors and the Mattock family go out of their way to make guests feel welcome. Offering fishing, farming and rafting packages to suit everyone, there is also the opportunity for an overnight camp out under the stars. Raft on the clear waters of the Rangitikei River to your private campsite - camping gear and bush tucker (food) are provided you just need to bring your swimwear and sense of adventure. This is a rare treat for visitors to New Zealand.