Exploring New Zealnd
Sandra Kay recently embarked with a friend on APT’s 20-day Essence of New Zealand tour. She shares her favourite moments, standout experiences, and why she’d recommend APT for a luxury travel experience.
What inspired you to take the Essence of New Zealand tour?
My friend Jill and I had previously visited New Zealand separately, each exploring different regions. We loved the idea of experiencing the best of both together. The meticulously planned itinerary made APT an easy choice — we simply packed our bags and enjoyed the journey.
What was a standout experience?
Milford Sound/Piopiotahi was absolutely breathtaking. Cruising through the fjords, surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls, was unlike anything we’d ever experienced.
Which town or city stood out to you the most?
Queenstown was my favourite. It offered the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, with stunning scenery and friendly locals. We especially loved the gondola ride to Bob’s Peak — our cameras were working overtime!
Did the holiday meet your expectations?
Our expectations were high, and APT exceeded them. We initially wondered how well the itinerary would balance relaxation and sightseeing, but those concerns disappeared once the tour began. There was a perfect mix of activities, and we always had the option to explore at our own pace.
Tell us about the TranzAlpine train journey. It was magical. We travelled through lush rainforests and the dramatic Southern Alps in absolute comfort — it’s one of the best ways to experience New Zealand’s diverse landscapes.
How was the dining throughout the trip? Exceptional. There was great variety, and we loved sampling local specialties — it added to the overall experience.
Who would you recommend APT to?
Anyone who wants a seamless, stress-free holiday with a touch of luxury. It was wonderful to be surprised by each new hotel and experience without the hassle of planning everything ourselves.
Was there anything unexpected about the tour?
"We were pleasantly surprised by the level of personal attention we received from our Tour Director and local guides. They went above and beyond to ensure we had a memorable experience, sharing expert insights and plenty of laughs."