As New Zealand’s Lord of the Rings specialists, we have created stunning tours and experiences that have been specifically tailored to cater to your Middle Earth hopes and expectations.

Our guides’ knowledge and passion are unsurpassed. They will wow you with stories, anecdotes and a wealth of background information of all things LOTR.

We also provide authentically reproduced weapons and costumes for fans to re-enact scenes and pose for photo opportunities. Locations are authenticated with photos to prove you’re standing in the same spot the actors were in the movies. And to top it off, we have a selection of souvenirs for you to remember your experience.

Luxurious private villa accommodation and gourmet cuisine located in the South Island’s spectacular Aoraki Mount Cook region. Stay in peace and privacy, in your own luxurious villa with spectacular views. All villas have a large central drawing room and dining area separating two bedrooms. Each bedroom includes an ensuite bathroom and a Super King bed that can be configured into two King Single beds for twin share. Villas are warmed by central heating, and the drawing room features a large open fireplace. Villas also include a private outdoor hot tub.

Pukaki Observatory onsite, offering boutique stargazing experiences set within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. Our experienced astro-guides bring the night sky to life in an engaging and informative manner.

Wellness treatments include massage, forest bathing and private yoga.

Venture Timaru is the economic and tourism agency for the Timaru District. It is the Regional Tourism Organisation for the district.

We are an outdoor adventure guiding company, based out of Taupo and Ruapehu located in the centre of the North Island. Explore the best of Tongariro National Park and Whanganui National Park – we specialize in trekking / hiking and canoeing adventures, including New Zealand’s best one-day walk, The Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

The Tongariro National Park has UNESCO Dual World Heritage status – globally recognised for both its cultural and natural significance and is also New Zealand’s oldest national park.

We operate all year, summer and winter and whether you’re a novice or keen adventurer we have a tour to suit. We cater for local and international individuals, large groups, family groups and school groups. If time is limited or you are unable to spend the whole day walking the Tongariro Crossing, then the Half Day or 2 hour Pre Sunset Guided Walk is a great choice. Those looking for a challenge? Make sure you tick Mt Ruapehu Summit Plateau off your list or take on the famed Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Professionally we have had 25 years of experience and personally far more with qualified instructors. Adrift is qualified and is registered with NZ Worksafe DoC Qualmak and has yearly 3rd party external safety audits. Our guides will ensure your safety whilst explaining the geography, history, culture and flora and fauna of the Tongariro and Whanganui National Parks, and New Zealand.

We guide every day with wind, rain, snow and even brilliant sunshine. All tours depart from the Adrift Tongariro base, with transport also available from Taupō CBD, Turangi and Whakapapa Village. Our base, 53 Carroll St, National Park Village – on the border of both National Parks, has its own shop, bathrooms and retail.

The only question is which amazing guided walk or paddle you’d like to do?

Okoro Villa offers the height of luxury on the fringes of Nelson, in the Tasman region of New Zealand’s South Island.
Available as an exclusive residence for up to eight guests or The Okoro Suite and The Treehouse can be reserved separately for two guests in each.

All guests will enjoy exceptional hospitality and delicious bespoke menus crafted from regional produce by the resident chef included with each stay.

Okoro Villa enjoys incredible sunset views from the heated infinity pool and the multiple outdoor dining and relaxation spaces.

A destination to reconnect and rejuvenate in the beautifully curated and furnished indoor and outdoor spaces. The design is dedicated to give guests a sense of restfulness and tranquillity. Features include a traditional sauna, plunge pool, outdoor shower and cedar hot tub.

Celebrating Excellence: Winners Announced for the 2025 TECNZ and YoungTEC Awards

The tourism industry came together tonight to honour exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment at the annual Tourism Export Council New Zealand (TECNZ) and YoungTEC Awards, held during the 2025 TECNZ Conference in the Bay of Islands.

These prestigious awards recognise the individuals and businesses that have made a significant impact on New Zealand’s tourism export sector over the past year. With a strong pool of finalists across multiple categories, this year’s winners exemplify excellence, passion, and the future-forward spirit of our industry.

Lynda Keene, TECNZ Chief Executive said “We are incredibly proud to acknowledge and celebrate the efforts of our award winners and finalists. Their dedication and innovation are a testament to the strength and resilience of our industry. These awards reflect the talent and leadership we need as we navigate the future of tourism in Aotearoa”.

The winners of the 2025 TECNZ Operator of the Year Awards are:

• Medium Inbound Operator of the Year Award – Master Travel Group
• Large Inbound Operator of the Year Award – Leisure Time Group
• Small Allied Operator of the Year Award – Beachcomber Cruises
• Medium Allied Operator of the Year – On The Point – Lake Rotorua
• Large Allied Operator of the Year Award – RealNZ
• Good Sort of the Year – Adam Taylor-Eruera, Te Puia
• Unsung Hero of the Year – Kathy Young, RealNZ

The winners of the 2025 YoungTEC Awards are:

• YoungTEC Rising Star – Cam Mitchell, RealNZ Cardrona x Trebble Cone
• YoungTEC Leadership Development – Ryan Wilmshurst, Maverick Tourism Marketing

In addition to the main award categories, four individuals were honoured with Service Awards for their outstanding contribution and long-term service to the TECNZ Board. These awards celebrate the dedication and voluntary leadership of those who have helped shape the direction and impact of the organisation over many years. The 2025 recipients are:

• Geoff Yee, 16 Year Service Award
• Stuart Neels, 13 Year Service Award
• Jenny Simpson, 11 Year Service Award
• John Gregory, 10 Year Service Award

Other Service Award recipients who were unable to attend the conference will receive their award at the TECNZ Xmas Symposium on 3 December 2025.

The TECNZ and YoungTEC Awards continue to serve as a benchmark for excellence in the New Zealand tourism industry, inspiring future leaders and highlighting the importance of collaboration and innovation in shaping a sustainable and thriving tourism landscape.

ENDS

About the Tourism Export Council of New Zealand

The Tourism Export Council of New Zealand (TECNZ) is a trade association that represents the interests of the inbound tourism industry since 1971. Its membership includes inbound tour operators (Inbound Members) and attraction, activity, accommodation, transport suppliers, regional tourism organisations and tourism services providers (Allied Members). TECNZ members collectively handle most of New Zealand’s international visitor arrivals. www.tourismexportcouncil.org.nz.

For more information please contact:

Lynda Keene

CEO Tourism Export Council of NZ

027 6644 836

The Tourism Export Council of New Zealand (TECNZ) is set to welcome tourism professionals from across Aotearoa to the stunning Bay of Islands on 6 August 2025, with the theme ‘Leadership in Action’.

This year’s conference will see 200 tourism industry delegates attending the two-day event. It’s set to be a dynamic gathering of inbound operators, product suppliers, industry leaders and regional representatives, all focused on advancing the future of New Zealand’s tourism sector.

The conference programme includes keynote presentations from leading economist Brad Olsen, Chris Brandolino from Earth Sciences New Zealand on weather forecasting and climate change, Mischa Mannix-Opie Director of Client Experience at Greener Pastures, panel discussions New Zealand industry leaders and a line-up of Global Inbound leaders who will share an international perspective on market trends and recovery strategies from UK, Europe, USA and Australia.

We’ll also be running three educational workshops. TECNZ is launching its new tourism Health & Safety online portal (SHE Pre Qual), the Institute of Directors is providing information on professional development courses for mid, senior managers and the highlight the important role of governance for profit and not-for-profit companies and organisations. We’re also delighted that the Waitangi Treaty Grounds are providing a guided walk for all delegates to make up the three workshops.

TECNZ Chief Executive Lynda Keene says, “We’re thrilled to bring together such a strong line-up of speakers and attendees to one of the most beautiful and culturally significant regions of Aotearoa. This year’s theme, ‘Leadership in Action,’ is about recognising the role our industry plays in shaping a resilient and sustainable tourism future.”

The 2025 host region, Northland, is equally enthusiastic about welcoming tourism professionals to their region. “We are absolutely delighted to welcome TECNZ delegates to Te Tai Tokerau Northland,” says Paul Linton, Chief Executive of Northland Inc. “Hosting the conference is an exciting opportunity to showcase the region’s rich culture, natural beauty and manaakitanga. We’re looking forward to connecting with tourism leaders from across the country and helping shape the future of our visitor economy.”

A highlight of the conference will be the TECNZ and YoungTEC Annual Awards Evening on Wednesday night, celebrating excellence, innovation, and leadership within New Zealand’s tourism export sector. The event will honour individuals and organisations making a significant impact on the industry, including rising stars and long-standing contributors.

The TECNZ Annual Conference continues to be one of the sector’s most anticipated events—this year proving no exception with record interest and a sold-out crowd.

ENDS

About the Tourism Export Council of New Zealand

The Tourism Export Council of New Zealand (TECNZ) is a trade association that represents the interests of the inbound tourism industry since 1971. Its membership includes inbound tour operators (Inbound Members) and attraction, activity, accommodation, transport suppliers, regional tourism organisations and tourism services providers (Allied Members). TECNZ members collectively manage and host most of New Zealand’s international visitor arrivals. www.tourismexportcouncil.org.nz.

For more information please contact:

Lynda Keene

CEO Tourism Export Council of NZ

027 6644 836

ScenicNZ is uniquely positioned to meet the needs of group tours across New Zealand. Our luxury coaches can accommodate large numbers of delegates for tours, conferences and events. Our fleet ranges from vehicles with four seats to those with 53 seats, all equipped with air conditioning, music players, and microphones. ScenicNZ is fully prepared to fulfill your transport needs, ensuring a hassle-free journey to your desired destinations. Our goal is to simplify the experience for inbound tour operators and event planners while allowing passengers to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of scenic New Zealand. Let us be your trusted partner in exploring the best New Zealand has to offer.

Welcome to Watersports Ltd – From adrenaline-pumping thrill rides to scenic cruises, we bring together Queenstown’s most iconic aquatic adventures under one roof, we’re proud to deliver unforgettable moments on the water for visitors and locals alike.

Whether you’re looking to soar above Lake Wakatipu, dive below its surface, or explore its shores at your own pace — it all starts here.

Thunder Jet
Jetting you through a theatre of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes. Thunder Jet Queenstown delivers an epic combo of speed, iconic 360º spins and breathtaking scenery. Join us on a 30-minute blast or full-throttle 1 hour adventure.

Paraflights
Soar 600ft above stunning Lake Wakatipu and enjoy breathtaking views, over the most scenic landscapes. Choose from thrilling solo, tandem, or triple flights a must-do in the heart of Queenstown.

Hydro Attack
Queenstown’s most unique water activity. A semi-submersible machine, reaching 80km/h, diving 2m underwater, and launching 6m into the air. Whatever else you’ve done, nothing has prepared you for a ride in the shark.

Queenstown Boat Charters
Discover Lake Wakatipu with a private boat charter. Cruise to hidden gems, unwind in comfort, and take in breathtaking alpine views – guided by our experienced local skippers who know every story and secret the lake holds.

Central Cycle Trail Co. offers premium cycle trail adventures across Central Otago’s most iconic landscapes.
We specialise in curated one-day and multi-day cycling experiences on the Lake Dunstan Trail, Otago Central Rail Trail, Roxburgh Gorge, and surrounding trails. Our services include bike hire (manual and e-bike), shuttle transport, luggage transfers, boutique accommodation packages, and expert local advice. With a focus on exceptional customer care and seamless logistics, we make it easy for international visitors to explore the region’s natural beauty, heritage, and world-class trails. From families to adventurers, we deliver unforgettable journeys powered by pedal — and backed by genuine Southern hospitality.