This is the most spectacular country we have ever visited. We are semi retired professionals in our 60's. We have been in many countries around the world and I must say that this Kiwi trip was the best 2 weeks we have ever spent in a country. Our guides, Craig and Sarah were fantastic. Their knowledge of the flora, fauna, geology and history of the South Island places we visited was impressive. Their spirit and ability to guide, drive, lead hikes, organize accommodations and restaurant visits, cook or arrange many delicious meals and lead us around the best locations in the South Island in 2 weeks was amazing. Our group of 12 jelled very quickly and soon felt like a family. It helped that everyone was organized, considerate and on time as we moved around a lot. It also helped that almost everyone was in shape to do the hikes that ranged from 3 to 15 km. and two kayak trips. My highlights were staying at the Braemare Station Sheep Farm, kayaking Milford Sound and hiking up to the lake near Mt. Cook. We joined the tour after being on our own in the north island for a week touring Maori villages. New Zealand is a country that gets its priorities for residents and tourists right. The Maori seem to have been melded into the fabric of the country with pride. The people are friendly and helpful. On a point most countries ignore, there are well maintained free toilets everywhere you need them with sinks with running water and soap. We have not found that anywhere else in the world.

| January 1970