Chelsea Lodge
Although I have not been with New Zealand Self Drive Tours as long as others, my passion and knowledge for New Zealand go way back. Having spent my childhood adventuring around I went on to become 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.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"I spent almost three years living and working on the road around New Zealand as a tour guide. My favourite areas to explore are definitely those around the Southern Alps which include fiords, glaciers, and glacial-fed lakes. There are so many varied activities you can do in these areas that I will find the best fit for your activity level to ensure you get to have the best experience."
How did you get involved in travel?
"I travelled overseas and realised how special New Zealand was and how lucky we were to have this as our backyard. I wanted to share it with you!
I started my tourism experience as a Tour guide, showing New Zealand off for almost 3 years. I moved into different seasonal roles within the tourism industry before taking up this role where I get to help you in the first stages of your New Zealand holiday planning and continue that journey with you right through till you return home. I love that I get to be a part of your entire holiday process and recommend my favourite places for you to visit."
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"Spending New Year's Eve on the overnight boat trip in Milford Sound. The weather was incredible and we were able to swim and kayak in the afternoon and then the following morning the clouds had rolled in and it was stunning and moody and the dolphins came along for a swim off the bow waves of the boat. "
Chelsea's favorite itineraries and travel advice
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Recent trip reviews for Chelsea
Accommodations: 1) April 5-8: Pros: The Wat...
New Zealand
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Apr 5 - Apr 19, 2023
Accommodations:
1) April 5-8: Pros: The Waters B & B: Excellent; private, comfortable, fantastic views, well appointed, romantic, amazing in unit breakfast, quiet. Cons: Had to drive to restaurants but small price to pay for this very special B&B. Would highly recommend.
2) April 8-10: Pros: The Peppertree B&B: Quaint, beautiful grounds, quiet, amazing communal breakfast. We had fun conversations, Heidi, the owner was terrific and helpful. Cons: Had to drive into town for any... read more
Hi Gary and Mary,
Thank you so much for your very thorough feedback on all the accommodation and on elements of your New Zealand Holiday.
I am sorry there was confusion around the Air New Zealand flight, I was just going with what Air New Zealand had informed me but obviously there was some misinformation sent in their emails so I am pleased you were able to get this sorted as the original flight times fitted in much better with the itinerary.
I was never informed that you had chosen to... read more
Family in New Zealand
New Zealand
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Mar 31 - Apr 12, 2023
Chelsea and I started planning our family trip last July and it was a total success. My young grandson would say everyday that this is the best excursion in NZ and I would remind him he said that the day before. The trip entertained the 4 adults and the 2 kids. From Hanmer Springs to the whale watching to Huka Falls jet ride to Hobbiton to the glow worm caves it was all entertaining.
What Chelsea did best was the timing- we would get up in the am drive to our excursion view it and get to our... read more
Walt, I am so pleased that you all had a wonderful time in New Zealand and I'm excited to hear that your Grandson had the best excursion every single day! I am sorry that Susan was unable to make the trip but how wonderful that your son could join you instead. Also, great feedback on the Redwoods and we will let people know about wait times and perhaps enjoying the Redwoods in the daylight to avoid the crowds.
Thank you
Chelsea
Chelsea called me before the trip and tailore...
New Zealand
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Mar 16 - Mar 29, 2023
Chelsea called me before the trip and tailored it to capture exactly what I wanted! She was very knowledgeable about how long to stay at certain places and limited long driving days (mostly less than 4 hours)!
Our favorite spot on the itinerary was the Wilderness Lodge—getting time to hang with the NZ local owners Jerry & Anne was so special. read more
Hi Jessica,
I am so pleased that you and Walter had a great time in New Zealand. The Wilderness Lodge is a great spot and its nice to spend a night in a remote location, I love it too!
It was unfortunate about your TranzAlpine train cancellation but I am pleased we were able to come up with an alternative and I hope you enjoyed the drive over Arthur's Pass.
All the best,
Chelsea
Phoebe and her team at Zip Line were amazing....
New Zealand
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Jan 2 - Jan 17, 2023
Phoebe and her team at Zip Line were amazing. Phil on the jet boat at Lake Taupo was particularly good with the younger children. The bus trip to the north of the Bay of Islands and Cape Reinga were enjoyable but too long a day. Accommodation was all good. read more
Hi Karen,
Thank you very much for your feedback and I am so pleased that you and the family had a wonderful time in New Zealand.
Thank you
Chelsea
Wonderful 1st introduction to the North Island!
New Zealand
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Sep 29 - Oct 7, 2022
Chelsea put together a fantastic itinerary for the North Island; the lodgings were fantastic, and the agenda was a nice blend of activities and downtime to explore. Unfortunately, one of the activities was canceled because of weather, but Chelsea was on top of it, letting me know right away, and helping me find alternatives. When I got in country she was indispensable, especially as unfortunately I got a little sick at the outside of the trip, but she helped me take care of the schedule.... read more
Hi Court,
Thank you so much for your feedback and I am so pleased that despite being unwell you were still able to enjoy your holiday.
I hope we can welcome you to New Zealand again in the future.
Chelsea