As a novice tramper the Takahe 5 day tour challenged, excited and filled me with admiration for my home land, New Zealand. All the Great Walks of New Zealand tracks were different with the Ben Lomand track at the end of the trip, the 'gut buster' for me personally. The views and sense of achievement were worth it though. The moody Doubtful Sound was a true highlight and extraordinarily beautiful in the low cloud and mists. All the tracks were completely different in terms of the vegetation, views and level of fitness needed to complete them, but that meant you didn't get complacent about them. Sharing the experiences with our two wonderful, professional, friendly and encouraging guides was the icing on the cake. Kim and Ruby exuded enthusiasm and nothing was too much trouble for them. I'm sure our whole group put on weight, even with all the exertion during the day, due to Ruby's special home baked cookies and beautifully cooked and presented meals. Kim's in-depth knowledge of the areas we visited was exemplary. I also thought the professionalism of the booking staff prior to the trip itself was of a very high standard. I have no hesitation in recommending this trip to anyone and on only my first day back from the trip, am already looking at other Active Adventure trips I can do.

| January 1970