About Us

We Make Your New Zealand Holiday Dreams Come True

New Zealand Guided Tours offers the country’s best range of guided tour packages. Arranging stress-free vacations for couples, groups and families is our passion.

Our New Zealand guided tours include all of New Zealand’s top destinations. In the South Island, these include Queenstown, Milford Sound, and Lake Tekapo. And in the North Island, these include Auckland, Wellington, the Bay of Islands, and Rotorua.

We promise to bring you the best New Zealand guided tour on offer, whether it’s your first time to New Zealand or your tenth!

As Wanaka/Queenstown locals, we know the secrets to creating an amazing guided tour. Select from over 30 New Zealand guided tours or simply tell us what you would like to do. We will help bring your dream New Zealand holiday to life.

What Our Customers Are Saying About Us

“Our adventure in New Zealand was perfect in every way. Francine is an excellent travel planner; knowledgeable, friendly and responsive. The choices of activities were exactly what we wanted to do. We also tried to do all of the additional suggested activities as well. Overall it made us four very satisfied, happy, exhausted travelers. Wayne is a jewel! He is absolutely the dream guide. Not only that, but because he is our age we were able to share our lives, our jokes, and our music. There is nothing he did not offer to help us with. It is hard to pick highlights but I want to commend you on the hotels and lodges you chose. All were exceptionally comfortable, had great food, and were in great locations. When Wayne asked us our favorite things we all came up with overlapping but slightly different answers. Gina loved the helicopter glacier experience, George thought WETA was really cool, Mark was enchanted by the hike at Abel Tasman and I was quite moved by my day at Doubtful Sound. I couldn’t possibly imagine anything you could have done better and, should we return for another visit, you would be the only person we would ask to plan our trip. We thank you from our hearts for everything.”
Diana, Mark, George and Gina (booked a 15 Day New Zealand Luxury Guided Tour October 2024)

More Client Testimonials

“It is with great pleasure that I and on behalf of Yennie and Luk Family (Larry, Connie & Ka Yui) write this testimonial to you, Patrick and your whole team. We have been back only a short while and have not stopped talking about how wonderful the tour was, how well everything was organised. You replied to us really efficiently every time and there were no hiccups during the journey. We would like to thank you for arranging a wonderful trip for us that exceeded all our expectations! […] We just had an amazing time from the minute we landed in Christchurch until we left. Patrick is an excellent tour guide, with his thoughtfulness, sharing of knowledge, the sightseeing became more meaningful. He was also patience, kind and helpful, which allow us to see him not just a guide but as a great friend towards the end of our holiday. […] THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts to you and Patrick for making our NZ Trip memorable! You will be the first person we contact when we plan our next vacation to New Zealand.” – Toh & Luk Family (SawTin, Yennie, Larry, Connie & Ka Yui).

“I just wanted to say how much Jo and I enjoyed our time in New Zealand. We really loved all the things we did and saw during our tour. I would also like to say how much we appreciated our tour guide Chris’ extensive knowledge of all things New Zealand. We learned a great deal about the history and geography of the country, and its wine and chocolate! Thank you for helping to make it a truly memorable holiday.” – Fran Franks.

Why Book with New Zealand Guided Tours?

  • EFFICIENT: You will receive your detailed quote within 12 hours and all email communication will be quick and thorough.
  • PERSONAL: No two holidays are the same. We ensure your holiday is exactly what you are looking for and always treat each client like family.
  • TRANSPARENT: We always include and detail all costs to ensure there are absolutely no surprises.
  • NEW ZEALAND EXPERTISE: We have experienced all that New Zealand has to offer. We know it like the back of our hand and it’s an honour to pass our knowledge on to you.  We’re passionate about giving you a taste of the ‘real’ New Zealand!
  • DILIGENT: Every itinerary is triple-checked to ensure complete accuracy.  We pride ourselves on our attention to detail, so you can rest assured that your vacation will go smoothly.
  • CALM: We take care of planning and booking every part of your New Zealand holiday. Just tell us your ideas and we will organise everything for you.
  • HIGH QUALITY: We have inspected the accommodation properties, trialled the activities, personally vetted our tour guides. Tested every product that we are selling–all to make sure we are only delivering the best to our clients.
  • YOU ARE OUR PRIORITY: We value you, and we want to ensure your time in New Zealand is unforgettable. We will look after every group who books with us with thought and care through the entire process.

Who are New Zealand Travel Organiser Group

New Zealand Guided Tours is part of the New Zealand Travel Organiser group. After working in the Tourism industry for years, and with a Bachelor of Tourism and a Bachelor of Commerce up her sleeve, Francine saw a gap in the market.  “There were so many travellers coming to New Zealand with no idea about where to travel to next. How far the travelling distance was to their next destination. Where best to stay and the general structure of their holiday around New Zealand. It was disheartening, as New Zealand is so amazing, and should be on show!”

The business was set up with thought and care in 2008. As the team has grown, the amount of happy customers has also rapidly grown. In fact, the business has grown so much that we now have New Zealand Guided Tours standing alone in all its glory. Bringing us to the current day, with a busy beehive of an office full of friendly, helpful people helping clients, like you, book their perfect New Zealand Guided Holiday.

Our company philosophy is to deliver the most incredible New Zealand holidays available on the market. We achieve this through our expert local knowledge, our attention to detail, our extremely high level of customer service and our passion for ensuring the New Zealand holiday you book through us is without a doubt your best holiday yet.

We look forward to working with you! Get in touch with our team today.

Meet the Team

Francine Smith – Managing Director

Francine Smith – Managing Director

I am the owner of New Zealand Guided Tours. Originally from the North Island, I now call the South Island home, having lived in Wanaka since 2005. I am very passionate about presenting and sharing New Zealand with the rest of the world. New Zealand is one of the most stunning places on earth and our goal is to ensure you get to experience an amazing New Zealand guided tour, that is personalised and your most memorable holiday yet! I plan and book New Zealand tours for clients and feel it is important to maintain this contact to ensure we are consistently exceeding customer expectations. I am also heavily involved in the design and usability of our website and virtually all aspects of the company.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Nicole Stevenson – Senior New Zealand Tour Consultant

Nicole Stevenson – Senior New Zealand Tour Consultant

I am a passionate travel enthusiast with a deep love for New Zealand. Born and raised in Central Otago on  New Zealand’s South Island, I am a local who loves to explore my own backyard. As a senior New Zealand Tour Consultant, I get to share my knowledge and expertise with you so you can explore the breathtaking landscapes, hidden gems, and vibrant culture that New Zealand has to offer. I’m here to make your journey through Aotearoa truly unforgettable!

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Jessica Jepson – Senior New Zealand Tour Consultant

Jessica Jepson – Senior New Zealand Tour Consultant

I’m a Senior Tour Consultant here at New Zealand Guided Tours, and I’m passionate about crafting personalised itineraries that showcase the very best of our incredible country. I grew up in Dunedin and spent many years in Queenstown before settling in Wanaka, and I’m proud to call the stunning South Island home. Having explored New Zealand from top to bottom, I love helping guests experience its highlights, hidden gems, and local charm through our expertly crafted guided tours. I can’t wait to help you create unforgettable memories in Aotearoa.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Alex Gillespie – Senior New Zealand Tour Consultant

Alex Gillespie – Senior New Zealand Tour Consultant

Avid traveller, passionate guided tour consultant. I’m here to help create an unforgettable, New Zealand experience for you. I have a great sense of adventure and interests such as Lord of the Rings, hiking, New Zealand culture and seeking out stunning landscapes. I have been lucky enough to travel New Zealand extensively, with a keen interest for heading off the beaten track to seek out hidden gems… I now get to share these hidden gems with you! I can’t wait to create a once-in-a-lifetime New Zealand Guided Tour for you, let’s get planning!

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Sam Horlock – Logistics & Administration Manager

Sam Horlock – Logistics & Administration Manager

I am the Logistics and Administration Manager here at New Zealand Guided Tours. I was born in England and absolutely love New Zealand, I am lucky enough to now call New Zealand my home. I have travelled throughout a large number of countries in the World and New Zealand is by far the greatest. I deal with anything Administrative in our friendly office and have the pleasure of dealing with our trusted suppliers to help make your New Zealand trip a once in a lifetime experience.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Samantha Wells – Logistics & Sales Support

Samantha Wells – Logistics & Sales Support

As a Logistics and Sales Support Specialist at New Zealand Guided Tours, I make sure every journey runs seamlessly — from coordinating tour schedules and managing logistics to supporting our sales team and keeping our travellers informed every step of the way. Born and raised on the West Coast of the South Island, I bring a local’s insight and a passion for sharing New Zealand’s beauty with others. Now based in stunning Wanaka, I’m inspired daily by the landscapes our guests get to experience. My goal is to ensure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable, stress-free New Zealand adventure.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Emma Bradley – Guided Tours Logistics Specialist

Emma Bradley – Guided Tours Logistics Specialist

I’m Emma, your friendly and dedicated Logistics Specialist here at New Zealand Guided Tours. With a love for travel and a talent for organisation, I’m here to make sure your guided journey through New Zealand runs seamlessly from start to finish. From coordinating tour logistics to providing exceptional support along the way, I’m committed to ensuring every detail is taken care of so you can relax and fully enjoy the adventure. Let’s make your New Zealand experience truly unforgettable — adventure awaits!

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Sarah Christie – Guided Tours Logistics Specialist

Sarah Christie – Guided Tours Logistics Specialist

I am a Logistics and Administration Specialist here at New Zealand Guided Tours. Originally from Dunedin, New Zealand, I shifted to Wanaka many years ago and have been working within the company ever since. I have extensive knowledge of New Zealand and the amazing travel offerings available. I work behind the scenes to ensure your New Zealand itinerary and tour is seamless.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Adeline Duffy – Guided Tours Logistics Specialist

Adeline Duffy – Guided Tours Logistics Specialist

Originally from sunny San Diego and now a proud New Zealand citizen, I’ve completely fallen in love with everything this incredible country has to offer. After travelling extensively throughout Aotearoa, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for its breathtaking landscapes, welcoming communities, and hidden gems. As a Logistics Specialist with New Zealand Guided Tours, I combine that local knowledge with strong organisational skills and a passion for exceptional service to ensure every tour runs seamlessly. Based in beautiful Wanaka, I’m dedicated to creating smooth, stress-free experiences so our guests can focus on what matters most — discovering and enjoying the very best of New Zealand.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Nina Smolar – Guided Tours Logistics Specialist

Nina Smolar – Guided Tours Logistics Specialist

I’m a Logistics Specialist here at New Zealand Guided Tours. Originally from Slovenia, a country known for its green forests and Alps, I’ve always appreciated beautiful landscapes and the outdoors. Now based in Wanaka, I combine my love of nature with my organisational skills and eye for detail to help ensure every guided journey through New Zealand runs smoothly.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Rebecca Holland – Travel Writer

Rebecca Holland – Travel Writer

I’m a former travel consultant and New Zealand travel writer who has explored the country from top to bottom. I’ve hiked the Te Araroa Trail, visited (almost) every Lord of the Rings filming location, and road tripped extensively around both islands. Other areas of expertise include family travel, luxury travel, skiing, food and wine tours, and outdoor adventures ranging from packrafting to caving. I enjoy writing about New Zealand’s spectacular landscapes, iconic destinations, and the unforgettable experiences that make guided tours so rewarding.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Wayne Johnson – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Wayne Johnson – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Wayne started his career in television and traveled the length and breadth of New Zealand and the world extensively, on many news and current event assignments. Wayne also had the pleasure of filming the early Operation Nest Egg Kiwi Recovery Program at Auckland Zoo in the early 1990s and filmed young Kiwi chicks being released back into the wild to boast our mainland Kiwi stock. In 2014 Wayne joined the ranks of the tourism industry here in New Zealand as a personalised guide and driver and over the years Wayne has had the pleasure of showing New Zealand to the rest of the world and sharing his love for this great little country that he is so very proud to call home.

“It is indeed my pleasure to not only host and share what New Zealand has to offer with its scenic beauty but also show off its cultural heritage when I welcome guests into the very friendly and relaxed way of life that we all enjoy here in New Zealand. The New Zealand great outdoors is a real passion of mine. I have a passion for environmental conservation and I celebrate and applaud the work of either community groups or individuals, whose contribution on a daily basis is to make our world a better place in any way.“

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

François Bartolomei – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

François Bartolomei – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Kia Ora. I was born in Nice alongside the Mediterranean, and I spent several years working as an ambulance driver in the French Alps. Many years ago, I arrived in New Zealand, eager to explore and passionate about travel. I now live in Lyttelton with my wife, Sally (who is also a tour guide), and we have two Franco-Kiwi sons. After more than 20 years driving visitors around and showing them Aotearoa’s ever-changing, breathtaking landscapes, I have made my adopted country my home and I love sharing my knowledge and stories with visitors. Having worked with visitors of many different nationalities — including media and film crews, surgeons attending conferences, golfers, photographers, families, couples and groups of friends — I have become adept at putting people at ease, whether they are white-water rafting or looking for a good restaurant. As an avid hiker and climber, I have led groups on short and long hikes through New Zealand’s national parks, and I have also worked with people with limited mobility. I therefore do my best to meet the needs and special interests of our clients within these varied, well-crafted tour itineraries.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Terry Thomsen – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Terry Thomsen – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

I have 15 years experience tour guiding with an emphasis on nature guiding. I drive/guide small private groups and also act as field guide and tour manager for larger coach tours.  Much of the latter is for study and educational tours including US university programs. 

My book The Lonely Islands was published in 2021. The book is about why New Zealand has the native plants and animals that it has – their origins and how they adapted to New Zealand’s unique environment. The book was underpinned by my MSc studies with a focus on ecology and biogeography.  

My guiding style is personable and always professional, and I bring to it my knowledge and knack for story-telling. I also enjoy showcasing Lord of the Rings Locations to those interested.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Sally Green Bartolomei – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Sally Green Bartolomei – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Kia Ora, I am passionate about travel, and New Zealand is my homeland. I feel privileged to guide visitors from other countries through its astounding landscapes. Having travelled widely, I am fluent in French and have a good grasp of Spanish. I have also worked in language teaching, translation and journalism in both New Zealand and France. I live in Lyttelton, a port village near Christchurch nestled inside the walls of an extinct volcano. I began my career as a tour guide 15 years ago, taking small groups of New Zealanders on beautiful tours of France and French visitors on spectacular tours of New Zealand. Having lived on both of New Zealand’s islands, I have a keen understanding of its history, geology, flora, fauna, culture and people. I am eager to share these stories with visitors and adapt them to their interests. For the past few years, my husband François and I have worked for Francine at New Zealand Guided Tours and New Zealan Luxury Escapes. We are impressed by the professionalism and personal care that goes into creating itineraries for international visitors, and we are happy to have joined the team.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Gunther Hammer – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Gunther Hammer – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Gunther is an experienced Tour Guide. His background being an ex Outdoor Education Instructor and High School Teacher, enhances his passionate for sharing our unique country with visitors. Extensive experience and qualifications in the New Zealand outdoor sector has led Gunther to the path of Tour Guiding, with his specialty being walking and cycle tours. NZ culture and history, Maori tikanga and environmental issues are also close to his heart. Gunther grew up in Germany and emigrated to New Zealand in 1980, being multilingual in German, English and French. Having lived and worked in New Zealand for over 42 years, Gunther is local and can’t wait to share our beautiful country.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Alan Richardson – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Alan Richardson – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Hi I am Alan, I settled in Wanaka after years of city hopping around New Zealand in pursuit of a career in the primary products export industries. For work or leisure, I have visited many countries and made a particular effort to experience diverse cultures and religions. I have visited all of the Modern 7 Wonders of the World, plus quite a few other places that could be on an expanded list. At home I have walked all Department of Conservation’s Great Walks in the South Island of New Zealand. I enjoy snow and water skiing, golf and both trout and seawater fishing. I am a member of the Rotary International organisation and I’m particularity active with their international student exchange programme. I love to take every opportunity to share my local knowledge and passion for New Zealand with visitors.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Dirk Nicasi – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Dirk Nicasi – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

I’m a driver/guide offering heart, good service & excellent local knowledge for groups up to 20. My passion’s always been adventure & travel. I’m privileged to reside in New Zealand. During the 90’s as a freelance Tour Guide I began guiding Belgians & many Europeans through New Zealand, Australia & Africa. I’m a avid photographer and ambassador of our natural world, and love to document and share knowledge of our environment and cultural treasures. I look forward to travelling at your pace and sharing my knowledge with you.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Lou Brown – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Lou Brown – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Originally from England, I wholeheartedly embrace New Zealand as my adopted home and have fallen in love with everything this amazing country offers. From the dramatic alpine landscapes to pristine coastal trails, I have spent countless hours exploring New Zealand’s outdoor playground and I am passionate about sharing these natural wonders with visitors. I enjoy complementing New Zealand Guided Tours’ itineraries to match my guests’ interests and energy levels – whether I am guiding a multi-generational family with varying fitness levels or a group of adventurous friends seeking off-the-beaten-track experiences, I create memorable moments for everyone involved. My genuine enthusiasm for the Kiwi lifestyle, deep appreciation for the country’s stunning scenery, and warm personable approach ensures that every guest feels welcomed and leaves with a deeper connection to New Zealand’s remarkable landscapes and culture.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Patrick Griffin – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Patrick Griffin – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

I am the lead tour guide at New Zealand Guided Tours. I am passionate about showcasing what New Zealand has to offer and have intricate knowledge about New Zealand’s secret spots and of course all the must visit locations and attractions. Constantly travelling throughout New Zealand with our highly valued clients, means I bring the company up to the minute knowledge about what is happening around the country and anything new that is on offer. If you are interested in a guided tour of New Zealand and want a personalised experience taking advantage of priceless local knowledge, I would love to show you our piece of paradise.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Mark Gomita-Glenn – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Mark Gomita-Glenn – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Kia Ora My name is Mark. I’m originally from a small beach side town in the North Island called Papamoa Beach. I have worked in the travel industry all my life and love showing off the hidden spots around this magical land. When not travelling in New Zealand, I visit Japan most years where food is my number one inspiration. I look forward to showing you the sights & sounds we have at the bottom of the earth!

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Lisa Metivier – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Lisa Metivier – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

A fourth generation “Kiwi”, raised in the South Island, I’ve since lived in a beautiful bush-clad coastal region in the north with my husband, children and assorted fur friends. I have a great love for this land and its majestic natural beauty. I began showcasing New Zealand to an amazing array of international visitors as a full-time guide. Prior to that I had enjoyed a long and varied career in broadcast journalism. From political programmes, to garden and travel shows, I’ve built local knowledge and amassed stories from diverse and interesting sources. One career led smoothly into the other.
I would be delighted to share my stories and passion for this place with you.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

Ryan Bergmans – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Ryan Bergmans – Tour Guide for New Zealand Guided Tours

Born and raised on a sheep farm along the windswept south coast of New Zealand’s South Island, I bring a deep local connection and an adventurous spirit to every tour. Since 1997, I’ve worked in film and television, a career that’s taken me around the country and to far away shores. I have spent time in the arctic tundra of the Swedish Lapland where I guided sled dog tours, a year in the jungles of West Africa, and winters on the slopes of North America and Europe chasing snow. After summers in Spain and Mallorca soaking up Mediterranean charm, I returned home to guide across New Zealand, sharing my rich experiences and love for our beautiful country. One of my greatest joys is passing on my passion to my nieces and nephew, teaching them to surf, ski, snowboard and help them appreciate the wonders of the place we are blessed to call home.

Email: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Phone: +64 3 443 2111

 

Quick Enquiry

Travel Consultants

Contact your personal New Zealand Travel specialist today...

Rebecca Holland – Travel Writer
Francine Smith – Managing Director
Nina Smolar – Guided Tours Logistics Specialist
Sam Horlock – Logistics & Administration Manager
Alex Gillespie – Senior New Zealand Tour Consultant
Jessica Jepson – Senior New Zealand Tour Consultant

Contact us: +64 3 443 2111
E: info@newzealandguidedtours.com
Hours: Mon–Sun, 9am-5pm (NZDT)

New Zealand Travel Organiser Group

Click here to find out more about us...

New Zealand Travel Organiser
New Zealand Luxury Escapes
New Zealand Ski Packages
New Zealand Golf Tours