The Joy of Crafting Self-Drive Holidays in New Zealand By Gesa Mitchell | Beautiful Nature Tours Auckland

Over the past few months, I’ve been lucky enough to dive deep into one of the most rewarding parts of my job: designing personalised, two- to three-week self-drive holidays for couples from the USA and Germany. It’s been wonderfully busy, and I’ve loved every minute of it — especially the chance to rediscover New Zealand through the eyes of my clients.

What makes this work so special? For me, it’s the research — not just behind a desk, but out on the road. Exploring new regions, checking out hidden accommodation gems, and talking to local hosts has reminded me once again just how rich, varied, and soulful this country really is.

Staying Somewhere with Soul

There’s something magical about finding the right place to stay — not just a bed for the night, but somewhere with heart. I’ve visited characterful vineyard cottages, luxurious eco-lodges, charming farmstays, and boutique B&Bs, each offering something unique: a special view, a homemade breakfast, a story told by the owner that stays with you long after you’ve checked out.

These aren’t the places you find on booking engines. Many are tucked away off the main tourist trail — places where you wake to birdsong, enjoy your morning coffee with mountain views, and feel like you’ve been let in on a local secret. And in many ways, that’s exactly what you have.

Private Tours Only the Locals Know About

The same spirit runs through the private tours I organise. Some of the most beautiful spots in New Zealand aren’t found in guidebooks — they’re known only to locals and passed on like whispered secrets. Waterfalls hidden deep in the bush, black sand beaches with no footprints, sacred sites with powerful stories. These are the places I love to share — and they’re the kind of experiences that truly stay with people.

Each itinerary I create is deeply personal, and I often end up feeling like I’m travelling alongside my guests, even from afar. It’s not just about ticking off sights, but about weaving together a journey that captures the essence of Aotearoa — its landscapes, its people, and its spirit.

The Heart of New Zealand

Yes, New Zealand is stunning. The photos speak for themselves: dramatic coastlines, pristine lakes, rugged mountains, rolling vineyards. But what makes this country really unforgettable are its people. The warm welcome at a family-run B&B, the friendly chat at a roadside café, the local guide who shares a piece of Māori history with passion and pride — these moments give depth and meaning to every journey.

Whether you’re planning your first visit to New Zealand or returning for another adventure, I’d love to help you discover the version of this country that most visitors never see — the one full of character, connection, and quiet magic.

Let’s go off the beaten track together.

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