This was my first visit to NZ and after spending two weeks on the North Island I joined the RIMU group for a truly memorable trip. Our outstanding guides, DK and Elder, often kept us busy from 7:00AM to 7:00PM. I was surprised by the diverse landscape; it is not just green hills and sheep or glaciers. Beaches, lakes, rivers, forests, lagoons, vineyards, arid areas, grasslands, alpine ridges - New Zealand has it all. The 3-day trek is a great bonding experience. It may be more challenging than you think if you are not used to hiking in rugged alpine terrain. The entire trip was very well organized, or as someone in the group said, it runs like a well oiled machine. In no small part, this was due to our two guides. They managed to be laid back and professional at the same time. They are also excellent cooks and prepared many of the groups' meals. I say without hesitation that some of those dinners could have been served at an upscale restaurant. Finally, the camaraderie among the travellers was wonderful. But it all starts with the guides' attitude and spirit which will be reflected back by the group. Well done guys!

| January 1970