The trip (Custom Rimu Nov. 2012) was fantastic - a lot to see picturesque mountains, valleys, rivers, flora & fauna; a lot to trek and experience other outdoor activities such as kayaking, horse riding, paragliding, bicycling and bungee jumping - a very varied adventure trip indeed! It was very well planned, organised and executed. And it was customer oriented and you do get value for your money! It was a very appropriate and good idea to gradually introduce and extend trekking hours as the days passed for we needed to overcome jet lag and get acclimatised upon arriving Christchurch from tropical Singapore. Advice given by Amanda & Lauren (who doubled up as guides) on the type of clothings/gear required for each different type of trek, depending on weather, local and other conditions, was important and was much appreciated. There was enough time for photo taking sessions while trekking and Lauren & Amanda did a good job in enlightening/educating/explaining to us the different types of plants, flowers, birds that we came across. It was the first time (and a great idea!) I had come across a bus equipped with free supply of (a) various types of fresh fruits & energy bars (b) drinkable water (c) UV-block cream to prevent sunburn (d) a box of tissue paper - for clients to consume/use. It certainly saved a lot of time for clients (& organisers as well) as then clients did not have to spend time to shop/buy/stock the above said items. And also there was ample seat space in the bus for 7 of us to put our backpacks, raincoats, wind breakers, warm jackets, etc. within easy reach. Running commentaries while on the road by Lauren & Amanda were excellent as they helped us to know, relate, identify the places, rivers, buildings, mountains, plants, etc. that we encountered along the way. I liked the way Lauren drove the bus - I felt comfortable and safe with her at the wheel. Meals (mainly breakfast & lunch, and sometimes dinner) prepared by Lauren & Amanda were good and varied with plenty of fresh vegetables. It was a pleasant surprise that Amanda could cook very well and was able to come out with appetising desserts within a short time. Accommodation was good - rooms were clean, equipped with hot showers, kettles for boiling water, basic crockery,and most importantly room heaters. All in all, it was an unusual yet enjoyable and unforgettable trip. Keep up the good sevice ! !

| June 2400