Meet the team of New Zealand touring experts
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About New Zealand Self Drive Tours

What do we do?

We use our experience and knowledge of New Zealand and our unique technology to design and create a truly memorable New Zealand Self Drive tour for you.
With New Zealand Self Drive Tours we don’t simply resell you other companies' itineraries and tours relabelled as our own. We offer you the largest choice of tour routes and accommodation, car and activity combinations and we can customise each one to suit you further.
Right from your first contact with us the same New Zealand tour expert will handle your enquiry, planning process, reservation and documentation to ensure consistent quality.

Why choose us to plan your New Zealand tour?

We have built our reputation on honest, accurate, relevant advice combined with an absolute no-compromise approach to providing you with the best possible service and with our custom technology we offer professional itinerary presentations. This combined with reservation and management technology ensures we spend time planning your tour and not processing paper!
Our small dedicated team are all New Zealand enthusiasts and between us, we have visited or experienced virtually every property, activity, and location we offer you. Based in Wanaka we have been in operation since 2004, and all our tours have been tried and tested by not just us but you, our clients.
We publish all feedback we receive to our guest book and you can search feedback for specific locations, properties and activities to see what other guests have to say. We take feedback seriously and continually monitor the quality of our suppliers.

If you would like to work for New Zealand Self Drive Tours then check out our job opportunities here.

New Zealand Self Drive Tours is part of the New Zealand Fine Touring Group of Businesses. We are proud members of Tourism Industry Aotearoa and The Tourism Export Council of New Zealand. We are also Qualmark Gold certified and all our team have completed the 100% Pure New Zealand specialist program.
Meet our Travel Specialists here
Staff list
Louise Barrett
Louise Barrett

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite Journey - Wanaka to Te Anau
Best activity inclusion - Milford Sound Fly-Cruise Fly

I have been a member of the Self Drive Tours team for over 5 years and LOVE helping people create a once in a lifetime holiday. Give me a call and let's have a chat about what will make a trip to New Zealand most special for you.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0895
Chelsea Lodge
Chelsea Lodge

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite Journey - Rotorua to Taupo
Best activity inclusion - International Antarctic Centre

My passion and knowledge for New Zealand go way back! Having spent my childhood adventuring around, I became a New Zealand guide. I have a great understanding of what works for some might not for someone else, after all, we're all different. I strongly believe the best way to get the most out of your holiday is to take guidance from one of our team, we will listen, create and support you through the entire process.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 222 8021
Christina Brockie
Christina Brockie

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite Journey - Greymouth to Haast
Best activity inclusion - Shotover Jet

Working at New Zealand Self Drive Tours allows me to explore my passion for travel and New Zealand.  Unfortunately, I can't spend all my time travelling so working to build you the perfect itinerary is the next best thing.  I love to chat with my clients and really understand what you need from a holiday then I can go away and compile the perfect journey with dates that suit.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0892
Nichole White
Nichole White

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite Journey - Paihia to Cape Reinga
Best activity inclusion - Hole in the Rock Cruise

Journeying New Zealand by car can be the best experience you will ever have, a true bucket-list moment. There is plenty of time to stop and no one moving you on to the next viewpoint, and I can assure you, there are a few! However, support and knowledge are key, I highly recommend you get in touch. I can offer advice on driving distances and timings, preferred vehicle types, book you into tried and tested friendly/clean accommodation and be right here at the end of the phone whilst you travel in case you need any support - anything at all. If you'd like to chat about your ideas then please send me an email, give me a call or book a suitable time for us both below, I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 7468 358
Harriet McGregor
Harriet McGregor

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite JourneyLake Tekapo to Wanaka - so many photo opportunities
Best activity inclusion - Whale Watch Kaikoura

I walked the 3,000km Te Araroa trail from the top to the bottom of New Zealand and fell in love with the amazing landscape and friendly locals. I love any chance to have an adventure and am excited to show you how much New Zealand has to offer.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Tia Chesser
Tia Chesser

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite JourneyTe Anau to Kaka Point - so many photo opportunities
Best activity inclusion - Elm Wildlife Peninsula Encounter Tour Including Albatross Centre

Born in Adelaide, Australia, I've travelled to over 30 countries over the past 10 years and New Zealand is where I've chosen to call home. With breathtaking surroundings and a plentiful of hidden gems to be explored. The mountains are why I came but the culture and experiences are why I stay and what I want to share with the rest of the world.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Petra Obrovska
Petra Obrovska

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite Journey - Wanaka to Fox Glacier
Best activity inclusion - Wildwire - Lord of the Rungs Waterfall Climb

I am originally from the Czech Republic but I have lived all over the world. Before coming to New Zealand I had been guiding tours in Asia for 5 years. I am an avid hiker and mountain lover so New Zealand has always been on my wishlist! The nature here is incredible which is perfect for the activities I love - hiking, camping, motorbike touring, snowboarding, and kayaking.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Jon Andrews
Jon Andrews

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite JourneyQueenstown to Wanaka via Crown Range
Best activity inclusion - Overnight Milford Sound Cruise

After leaving the UK 10 years ago, I fell in love with New Zealand. Since then, I have been working in the travel industry and organising tours for 9 years. From climbing mountains across New Zealand to kayaking the beautiful blue oceans & lakes, this region has so much to offer. I love a good road trip, and New Zealand easily offers some of the best in the world. Everywhere you look could easily be put on a postcard, so I always advise travellers to make sure their cameras have enough battery life to capture the breathtaking scenery.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Janette Bagley
Janette Bagley

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite Journey - Wanaka to Haast
Best activity inclusion - TSS Earnslaw & scrumptious BBQ dinner

I love New Zealand and I think you will too. Born and raised in Dunedin I haven't travelled far to raise my children in the beautiful Wanaka. Wanaka provides us with the adventurous lifestyle that we adore. Winter days skiing, weekends on the mountain biking trails, and summers spent in (and on) the lake. It is a beautiful place like much of the rest of New Zealand. So come and see it for yourself, get in touch and we can start planning your New Zealand escape.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 222 8003
Angela Winton
Angela Winton

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite Journey - Wanaka to Franz Josef
Best activity inclusion - Exploring the wonderful West Coast

First experiencing the South Island on a family road trip as a child, I still find I can't get enough of the stunning scenery our country has to offer. Coming off a long career as an international travel consultant I'm excited to now be selling New Zealand as a destination and the variety of experiences it has to offer.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Victoria Parrack
Victoria Parrack

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite Journey - Omarama to Mt Cook
Best activity inclusion - Stargazing at Mount Cook

Originally from England, I have been working as a travel agent in Australia and New Zealand for the past 6 years. I love the unique culture and nature of this side of the globe. New Zealand is now my home and there are so many incredible attractions to suit everyone. I love the outdoors and enjoy nothing more than drinking a glass of wine after a long hike.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Carly Baker
Carly Baker

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite Journey - Wanaka to Lake Tekapo
Best activity inclusion - Queen Charlotte Track 3-Day Hike Bike Kayak

Originally from Sydney, Australia, I moved to Wanaka about 5 years ago. I was drawn to New Zealand for Snowboarding and the mountains and found myself falling in love with the summers here too - from Mountain Biking, and Golfing to Jet Boating. I have a passion for travel and love talking about globetrotting as well as seeing how travel makes people feel. At NZ Self Drive Tours, my mission is to share what this stunning country has to offer.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Sabina Din
Sabina Din

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite JourneyWestport to Golden Bay
Best activity inclusion - Abel Tasman 3-day Guided Kayak and Walking Trip

I am not originally from New Zealand but after travelling through 40 different countries this is definitely the place I want to be. I work with a great team at Fine Tours New Zealand and together we share experience and energy to make sure that you, our customers, can enjoy the very best on offer.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Kayla Bailey
Kayla Bailey

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite JourneyLake Tekapo to Wanaka 
Best activity inclusion - Sounds Connection Half Day Wine Tour, Marlborough

I was originally born in Cairns Australia and when I was 6 years old my parents sold everything and took me and my sister to New Orleans where they bought a sail yacht. We lived on it for 6 years and travelled through the Caribbean and then went through the Panama Canal and spent a bit of time in the South Pacific ocean. We eventually returned to Australia and based ourselves in the Sunshine Coast where I completed high school. After coming to New Zealand on holiday, I instantly fell in love and have now made Wanaka my home. Travelling is a huge part of my childhood and continues to be a major part of my life, it is a deep passion and I am super excited to share that with you when assisting you in creating your perfect holiday.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Owen Hunt
Owen Hunt

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite JourneyBlenheim to Kaikoura
Best activity inclusion - Stargazing in Mount Cook

Having spent 4 years travelling around Canada, Europe and South America, working across all areas of the ski and hospitality industry, I realised my dream and moved to New Zealand. I spent 4 months travelling in my van, exploring all the sights NZ has to offer and love that I can share my experiences with others looking for an equally amazing time in this beautiful country. Though winter is where I thrive, in summer I still can’t tear myself away from the mountains. I spend my time hiking and rock climbing and love to help others out with where the best spots are!

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Ziggy Callan
Ziggy Callan

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite JourneyLake Tekapo to Wanaka - so many photo opportunities
Best activity inclusion - Milford Sound Cruise

I am originally from the Yarra Valley, a stunning wine region in Australia and I have many amazing memories from my travels throughout. After falling in love with the South Island of New Zealand, I relocated to Wanaka to continue exploring all this beautiful country has to offer. From the lakes and mountains to skiing, hiking and exploring all the amazing cuisine. I am passionate about sharing this beautiful place and am excited to help plan your next dream holiday.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Louise Hodge
Louise Hodge

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite JourneyHokitika to Wanaka - The contrast in scenery is unreal.
Best activity inclusion - Franz Joseph Glacier Helicopter Tour

I am New Zealand Maori born, and grew up on the North Shore of Auckland. For the last few years I have been living in and exploring the South Island of New Zealand. I spend most of my spare time in the outdoors, hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter. Through my travels I’ve discovered that my own home country is one of the best to explore and enjoy new experiences. From Great Walks, to wine tours, whale watching and exploring the mountains, New Zealand really does have it all. I have many experiences I’d love to share with you to help create your perfect itinerary.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Anna Le Roux
Anna Le Roux

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite JourneyChristchurch to Abel Tasman
Best activity inclusion - Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise

Originally from France, I arrived in New Zealand in 2019 and instantly fell in love with the country. New Zealand is ever-changing which makes your travel here such a special and unique experience. I love to go off-the-beaten-track, explore the wilderness and encounter native wildlife. I’ve spent a lot of time exploring the country and I love sharing my passion for this special place with my clients. I am excited to help you create your dream holiday!

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Kayla Gray
Kayla Gray

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite JourneyAuckland to Coromandel Peninsula
Best activity inclusion - Cathedral Cove Cruise

I grew up in a small town northwest of Auckland, and while it may have been in the middle of nowhere, I learned to make my own fun and appreciate the little things in life. I am now located in the stunning Wanaka, where the picturesque landscape feels like living on a movie set. My travels, both near and far, have fuelled my love for exploring everything this world has to offer. After studying tourism following high school, I am now equipped with the tools to help you create a once-in-a-lifetime experience in our beautiful country.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Mackenzie Neely
Mackenzie Neely

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite JourneyTe Anau to Milford Sound
Best activity inclusion - Milford Sound Cruise

I am originally from Canada and have been living in New Zealand since 2022. I quickly fell in love with everything that New Zealand has to offer, from its beautiful lakes and beaches to its towering mountains and incredible wildlife. I am passionate about travel and excited to be in a position where I can share my knowledge about New Zealand!

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Shelby Hewlett
Shelby Hewlett

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite JourneyLake Tekapo to Wanaka - so many photo opportunities
Best activity inclusion - Overnight Milford Sound Cruise

I recently moved to New Zealand from the Scottish Highlands and am now living in the sunny town of Wanaka. I have a degree in Adventure Tourism Management and a passion for creating unique experiences in the mountains. I enjoy exploring areas with authentic local character and culture! I strive to provide a warm approachable service that thrives through creativity and innovation when finding that balance in forming itineraries bespoke to your needs. I am so excited to learn more about this diverse country full of abundant opportunities and be able to offer the best support for your venture. 

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Ella Stalker
Ella Stalker

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite JourneyLake Tekapo to Wanaka
Best activity inclusion - Whale Watch Kaikoura

After spending the last two and a half years in Canada, travelling and working in various roles across the travel industry, I decided to follow my dream and move to New Zealand. Since arriving here, I have fallen in love with the natural beauty that New Zealand has to offer, from the stunning mountains and lakes to the breathtaking coastlines. As someone who has a keen interest in travelling, I am thrilled to be in a position where I can share my knowledge and passion for travel with others!

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Neisha Hill
Neisha Hill

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite Journey -  Whangamata to Pauanui
Best activity inclusion - Swimming with dolphins in Kaikoura

I have always loved to travel and have a passion for sharing this with others. I have visited many countries around the world and nowhere has ever come close to New Zealand. It offers a wide variety of incredible experiences and has something for everyone. The landscapes can't be beaten and there is so much wildlife and natural beauty at every turn. From swimming with dolphins, climbing mountains, rushing down waterfalls, drinking world class wine, flying above glaciers, it really is a magical place. Designing bespoke once in a life time holidays for people to explore this beautiful country is a dream come true. I can't wait to start this journey with you!

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Lisa Gloeckner
Lisa Gloeckner

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite JourneyChristchurch to Queenstown
Best activity inclusion - Milford Sound Coach, Cruise and Walks

I'm a passionate traveller who made Wanaka my home five years ago. New Zealand stole my heart, and I love spreading that love in the travel industry. Creating custom itineraries is my jam, and I've got your back from fiords to alpine trails, and city vibes to lakeside serenity. Let's make your New Zealand dream come true, one personalised journey at a time!

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Gina Lowen
Gina Lowen

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite JourneyLake Tekapo to Wanaka
Best activity inclusion - Abel Tasman 3-day Guided Kayak and Walking Trip

Born and raised in New Zealand I have travelled around the country multiple times and have many future travel goals to keep exploring. I would be delighted to help you plan your dream holiday so that you have the trip of a lifetime in New Zealand.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Laura Hodgson
Laura Hodgson

New Zealand Specialist Support

Favourite Journey - Haast to Greymouth
Best activity inclusion - Milford Sound Scenic Flyover

Originally from Edinburgh, I have been in New Zealand for 11 years now, most of the time living in gorgeous Wanaka. I love being out adventuring, whether that being running, biking, snowboarding, hiking, or camping...and I am never disappointed as there is always some new stunning landscape to discover. I can't wait to show you our little slice of paradise!

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Dana Aplin
Dana Aplin

New Zealand Specialist Support

Favourite Journey -    Thames to Whangaparao
Best activity inclusion - Driving Creek Railway & Potteries

I was born and raised in the beautiful Bay of Islands of New Zealand and now reside in Wanaka. I have covered almost every corner of the country but there is always more to explore! We have a strong travel culture and sense of adventure here in NZ, and it’s infectious to everyone who visits. I love our part of the world because of the isolated wild places, and incredible endemic biodiversity that you need to see for yourself to believe!

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Brittany Withell
Brittany Withell

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite Journey -  Queenstown to Franz Josef
Best activity inclusion - Shotover Jet

I have lived in this beautiful country my whole life, and I am proud to call myself a New Zealand citizen! Helping people is at the core of my being, and making people happy is equally important to me. I absolutely love the outdoors and get excited about new adventures! I am here to support you in any way and am excited to help you embrace new exciting travel experiences. 

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Sophie McKenzie
Sophie McKenzie

New Zealand Specialist

Favourite Journey -  Queenstown to Milford Sound
Best activity inclusion - Milford Sound Cruise with coach from Te Anau

Growing up in Australia and England I was lucky enough to travel all around the world with my amazing family, and since stepping out on my own I've been able to explore even more of this beautiful planet (specifically New Zealand). This has given me an incredible insight into what makes a truly unforgettable holiday and that's what I’d love to create for you. I have a special passion for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding and drinking hot chocolate! But in the summer time you can find me hiking, camping and road tripping with my partner. I adore working with people and I would love to take it upon myself to construct the perfect experience for you and/or your loved ones.

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Danielle Lillico
Danielle Lillico

New Zealand Specialist Support

Favourite JourneyLake Tekapo to Wanaka
Best activity inclusion -  Abel Tasman Kayaks - Kayak & Pitt Head Nature Loop

I love to travel and have spent a lot of my life searching for the next adventure and exciting destination to visit. When I arrived in New Zealand, I knew that I had found my home away from home. This beautiful country offers everything I could ever want - adventure, incredible hospitality, and beautiful scenery. I am excited to share my wealth of knowledge with you and help you experience the amazing wonders of New Zealand firsthand.

Chris Waddick
Chris Waddick

New Zealand Specialist Support

Favourite Journey - Hokitika to Haast
Best activity inclusion - Twins Glaciers Helicopter Flight

Born and raised in New Zealand’s deep south, I’ve travelled extensively around my home country, particularly the South Island (definitely the best island in my opinion!). My background in conservation and hospitality means I have genuine knowledge of local secrets, wildlife hotspots, and off-the-beaten-track destinations. I also know what to avoid and the best times of year to visit different places and encounter wildlife.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Madi Howard
Madi Howard

New Zealand Specialist Support

Favourite JourneyLake Tekapo to Wanaka 
Best activity inclusion - Earnslaw Cruise and yummy BBQ Lunch

Travelling has always been such an amazing thing for me and what I love to do! I have been to over 20 countries and am hoping to tick off plenty more, although New Zealand will always be home. After moving from Auckland to the South Island, I love to show off how beautiful everything is down here to all friends and family visiting. My mission is to prove to the whole world why New Zealand is the best country to be in!

Make an appointment here to talk to me when it suits you.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Madi Stroud
Madi Stroud

New Zealand Specialist Support

Favourite JourneyLake Tekapo to Wanaka
Best activity inclusion - Milford Sound Fly Cruise Fly + Earnslaw Burn Landing with Heliworks

I grew up in Auckland and moved to the South Island in 2019. I haven't looked back since! One of the best things about living in Wanaka is having easy access to mountains, lakes, rivers, and forests. Travelling is a passion of mine and I take great satisfaction in planning an amazing holiday. As a Kiwi, I'm proud of my country and have travelled extensively throughout New Zealand and I love helping others discover the beauty!

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Linda Wells
Linda Wells

Sales and Customer Service Manager

Favourite Journey - Haast to Greymouth
Best activity inclusion - Franz Josef Heli Hike

A true Kiwi local, with a strong passion for New Zealand including being renowned for my strong southern accent. My career has always been in hospitality and tourism management, varying from reservations to general hotel management. I’m an expert in service delivery to ensure client expectations are exceeded. My in-depth knowledge of New Zealand including the dedication, passion, and care to ensure all clients create the most amazing memories is the reason I love the industry and my role.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
Marissa Cuadero
Marissa Cuadero

Key Agent Support

Favourite JourneyFranz Josef to Christchurch via Arthurs Pass
Best activity inclusion - Skydive Abel Tasman

Originally from the Philippines, I arrived in New Zealand 8 years ago as a Hotel Management student. After my studies, I began working in the tourism industry in Rotorua, where I gained some hands-on knowledge of what travellers require to have the best possible experience here, in New Zealand. Now, I cannot wait to help you do the same.

Telephone: +64 3 443 0812
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The Tiaki Promise
Tiaki means to care for people and place


New Zealand is precious and however we travel, we all have a responsibility to look after this country.
The Tiaki Promise is a commitment to care for New Zealand now and for future generations. We at New Zealand Self Drive are committed to this promise. 
By following the Tiaki Promise, you are also making a commitment to New Zealand and acting as a guardian protecting and preserving our home. 

New Zealand self drive supports the Tiaki promise