Author Archive for Veronika Vermeulen

Veronika Vermeulen is Director of Aroha New Zealand Tours Ltd. Aroha New Zealand Tours Ltd. has been offering 100% tailored journeys and private guided luxury experiences in New Zealand since 2000.

New Zealand: Rejuvenated and ready to return

New Zealand: Rejuvenated and ready to return

As Autumn gives way to the crisp cool days, warm company, and well-earned peace of winter, the challenges of recent months begin to ease and fade. The land and people slow down and recuperate, taking stock as we look forward to the promise and hope of a newfound spring. As we celebrate the obstacles we
5 humorous short stories from a private travel guide

5 humorous short stories from a private travel guide

As a professional guide, one of the things I love most is not just to show you around our beautiful backyard, but it is to meet many different people and ethnicities, so we can learn from each other. There is nothing more rewarding to get a big thanks and hug at and end of a
6 reasons why the luxury travel market in New Zealand may recover faster than the rest of the world

6 reasons why the luxury travel market in New Zealand may recover faster than the rest of the world

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, few industries have fallen as far and as fast as tourism. The coronavirus is crippling entire industries, but the private jet business is booming in New Zealand. Individuals are paying thousands of dollars to evacuate and avoid areas affected by the coronavirus. Luxury travel operators are allowing customers
5 incredible hidden gems in New Zealand

5 incredible hidden gems in New Zealand

Have you ever dreamt about being the one to discover that very rare thing, a site, a place, somewhere that you alone have found and can appreciate? New Zealand can offer you a taste of undiscovered gems; hidden in this spectacularly beautiful country lies that prize. If you take the time to hike a trail,
7 amazing towns and cities to visit in New Zealand

7 amazing towns and cities to visit in New Zealand

Cities tend to have a vibe about them, a sense that something might be happening just around the corner. Cities hold an energy that is infectious; and oh boy, is that true of New Zealand cities. A passion for art, street wall murals, live music, comedy, food markets, coffee, restaurants and bars make New Zealand
How the red deer brought the Wild West to New Zealand

How the red deer brought the Wild West to New Zealand

New Zealand is a magical place, with stunning natural beauty and amazing scenery. From national parks, golden beaches, indigenous forests to expansive mountain ranges that stretch on endlessly, the opportunities to explore abound. The cities and towns too hold their own charm; some surreally modern while others hold an old-world charm that harks to a
New Zealand's 5 most delicious seafood choices

New Zealand's 5 most delicious seafood choices

New Zealand goes beyond fish and chips on the beach or smoky barbeque meals when it comes to gastronomy. With a distinct Pacific-rim influence, our cuisine is something guaranteed to delight even the most sensitive of palettes, and indulgence is forgiven, because If sea-food is your thing, then New Zealand is your oyster. An extravaganza
New Zealand: a journey into flavours

New Zealand: a journey into flavours

A trip to New Zealand is not complete without visiting the multitude of exquisite sights that abound, from the long white beaches in the North to snow-capped mountains in the South Island. New Zealand is famous for the picturesque landscapes, for the dialed-up colours of nature and the multitude of sites to see. But a
Connoisseur highlights: 5 tantalising experiences to try in New Zealand

Connoisseur highlights: 5 tantalising experiences to try in New Zealand

While New Zealand provides many a guest an outstanding holiday, it also provides lovers of luxury, connoisseurs of distinction and individuals of impeccable taste an exquisite opportunity to blend the finer things in life. From fine dining, helicopter cruises, fly-fishing and inspired shopping to gorgeous blue oceans, sea-food cruises and delicious wines, you can do
6 activities that celebrate New Zealand’s love affair with wine

6 activities that celebrate New Zealand’s love affair with wine

When contemplating New Zealand, with its multitude of amazing activities, natural wonders, and stunning scenery, wine may not be the first thing that leaps to mind. However, New Zealand has long fostered a complex relationship with wine, dating back centuries. The earliest vines were planted here back in the 1800s and kicked off the country’s
New Zealand has being amazing down to a science

New Zealand has being amazing down to a science

New Zealand is well known around the world for its stunning scenery and wide range of amazing activities. However, this quiet little country nestled far from the big movers and shakers in the world has a lot more depth than its popular image lets on. New Zealand is a modest sort of place. As a
Beat the heat - 9 reasons Winter in New Zealand is a winner

Beat the heat - 9 reasons Winter in New Zealand is a winner

As the days lengthen and the temperatures continue to rise in the Northern Hemisphere… Winter is in full swing in our little slice of paradise. New Zealand’s unique location in the far south creates a special opportunity for savvy travellers to escape those long hot dog days of summer. School is out for the long
Exploring NZ with a guide – 5 ways to enhance your holiday

Exploring NZ with a guide – 5 ways to enhance your holiday

New Zealand is a land of such astounding beauty; one never has to drive too far to feast your eyes on something breath-taking and amazing. The contrasts between the massive mountain ranges and the broad, empty beaches, the forests, the waterfalls, the crystal-clear lakes, and indigenous fauna and flora are unique and fascinating beyond words.
5 reasons why New Zealand will be triumphant after Christchurch

5 reasons why New Zealand will be triumphant after Christchurch

New Zealand is a country of untold beauty; from the North to the South Island there are an abundance of natural sights that will take your breath away. There are mountain climbs that will elevate your view to more than 12,000 feet and scuba dives that will take you through an underwater paradise. New Zealand
Tiaki: the heart of New Zealand sustainability

Tiaki: the heart of New Zealand sustainability

A magical land of natural wonders and unique marvels, New Zealand holds a special place in the hearts and minds of not only its residents but also the inquisitive travelers who flock to its tranquil shores to experience everything that the country has to offer. Well known for its stunning scenery, pristine wilderness, and native
The Rolling Countryside

Authentic New Zealand… true to life

New Zealand is renowned the world over for its glorious countryside and breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, and people flock to our shores to experience some of the best outdoor and nature activities available anywhere. Despite this well-deserved reputation as a must-see destination, many visitors sadly miss out on the opportunity to really immerse themselves in the