Testimonials
"I just wanted to say Thank You for the great time I had on the Great NZ Trek. I had an amazing adventure. One of the great things was having the time to build up a real relationship with the horse I leased off Tasman Rides. Nice to spend time with my brother & his partner too. It's been a bit hard coming back to city life. But lots of good stories & memories. I can see it's a hell of you've got there. So big Thank You and good luck with the family." Sue Dorrington, rider on Stage 3
"Now that my body has decided it's okay to move again - that deep sense of tiredness gone (although sadly also disappearing are the 'leather' soles of my feet) - I want to thank you for the incredible experience of trekking the Coromandel. Apart from all the wonderful views & refreshing surf & the company - the support & thoughtfulness & dedication of crew & volunteers, & the detailed planning (not to mention the Spik 'n' Span toilets & the "FarOut' showers!) made it a week different to anything I've done. And, hard as we tried, a friend & I could only come up with 'uncomfortable dining chairs' as a complaint. Not bad for a weeklong 'travelling circus'where our every need was catered for....Thanks. A lot. I'm planning for next year and already have at least 2 others interested." Susan Williams, walker on Stage 3
“My annual holiday was always one weeks skiing, NOW the GNZT will take priority.” Bo Patel, biker on Stage 1, 2 & 3
“The chance to cross country not normally accessible to the general public, the views, the beauty of New Zealand. The guides were interesting to talk to. Welsh Ryan and Steve's smile at 12pm at night made driving until late into the night achievable. All together a really good team and I really appreciate and enjoyed the whole experience.” Anne Baldock, rider on Stage 1, 2 & 3
“Organisation was unreal - you were all great! Wonderful experience, roll on 2007!’ Margaret Gamble, walker on Stage 1, 2 & 3
“Camaraderie - riding through territory not normally available. Having such incredible support and back up all the way and always knowing assistance was available at any time if required. The opportunity to see New Zealand our country as few people are ever privileged to see it. A stunning and challenging concept. A privilege to be a part of it. Having been in event management for many years I take my hat off to you Steve.” Adrienne Cole, rider on Stage 1 & 2. Crew on Stage 3
“The positive energy and powerful way things were managed. You run a great event - keep going!”
Kevin Smith, rider on Stage 1
“I compliment your organisation. Very helpful crew. They're a great asset. Did everything cheerfully.”
Lyn Wheeler, rider on Stage 1, 2 & 3
“What I liked most was the range of riding surfaces, countryside, great group of people. What I liked least was the high tide at 90 mile beach. Boyd was amazing. Knew what was important for bikers. He had great energy. Critical to have somebody like Boyd (good luck finding anyone as good for the cyclists). Ability to judge riding skills, fitness to ride to and fro. This would impact me joining next year. Interaction with horses was (surprisingly) great. Team very flexible to changes. Great rapid response to problems.”
Marco Lausberg, biker on Stage 1, 2 & 3
“I've really enjoyed my week and appreciate the vision of Steve and Co and all the hard work from the many volunteers.” Mike McConchie, biker on Stage 1, 2 & 3
“Mule man was great out on trail informative. Steve and partner - you have been fantastic! I believe you have given 110%with a smile and never a complaint. I am proud to have been part of Stage One. Thank you so much. I want to be on every stage with you both to Bluff.” Michele Gullery, rider on Stage 1
“A yearly highlight with a group of neat friends and a great time on your horse.” Martin Van Hueven, rider on Stage 1
“Camaraderie - meeting so many different riders, cyclists and walkers from all over the place and meeting up with old friends.” Debra Mac William, rider on Stage 1, 2 & 3
“Vets were especially generous with advice for free. People all mixed very well no matter what they were riding or walking. A great atmosphere. Had a wonderful time and hope to do it next year.” Donna Annette-Bright, rider on Stage 1, 2 & 3
“Well done to Steve and his crew. You are ACE!! Thanks for the experience! See you in 2007.” Belinda Noonan, rider on Stage 1 & 2
“What worked - meeting like minded people, the choice of route, our guide (Boyd) and the weather! The personalities involved… Dawn, Boyd, Steve, Jen, Ryan, Karen, Annie, Greg, Carl, Brad, Brydie and Phil all stood out as exceptional people and excellent in their role. They put real sole into the journey and without them, it just wouldn’t be the same. Here's hoping they are still there at the end. Thanks for everything.”
T J McConchie, biker on Stage 1, 2 & 3
“What worked - the crew! Always organised and waiting to help out - they are awesome!” Heather McIntosh, rider on Stage 1
“Opportunity to walk through countryside, avoiding the usual tourist routes, stretching oneself physically and meeting a broad group of people with similar goals. Very much enjoyed the mix of horses, mountain bikers and walkers - Great job, thanks so much for a true adventure” Judith Ratnieks, walker on Stage 1
“Food - fantastic. Participants were great. Everyone showing a willingness to assist in every which way.” Mary Galway, walker on Stage 1, 2 & 3
“Liked the most - The professional manner with which everything was conducted. Liked the most -The relentlessly optimistic and enthusiastic attitude that was everywhere. Worked well - the shuttles were brilliant and greatly appreciated. The cheerfulness of the crew was great. I am in awe of you wonderful people. Congratulations on your professional approach, your wonderful relentless enthusiasm. The 50 billion things you have done behind the scenes that I know nothing about, your sleepless nights to make everything work so well. You are champions and are changing the world one day at a time. I trust you all to go from strength to strength.” Briony Scott, walker on Stage 1
“Liked least - Horse shit with flies on it on steep hills when I was stuffed and breathing heavy. My nose was very close to the ground!! Worked well - hot showers, Disco toilets, Fantastic meals - Smiley faces on volunteers.” Karen Robertson, walker on Stage 1, 2 & 3
“The atmosphere was awesome and my crew were amazing. It was a really wicked experience. I found being on the crew an amazing experience. I feel that I have learnt so much from which I hope to put into use in my career next year.” R Farris on Stage 1
“Thank you very much for having us Gore girls on this journey. We’ve appreciated every single thing. You and your friendly crew are the best. Many thanks for the opportunity to take part. Many thanks to all the crew - great bunch of people. Great having fresh coffee - bring Steve (the coffee guy) next year as well. Thank you!” Margaret McLennan, walker on Stage 1, 2 & 3
“I cannot thank the staff and support crew enough for such a wonderful event.” Jan Chesterman, walker on Stage 1, 2 & 3
“I hope that it will go on! I want to thank the staff from the bottom of my heart (and endurance - will power - whatever). Volunteers were so wonderful - they worked so hard. An awesome experience - Thumbs up to all who helped run it! The general organisation - the team you have is amazing. The concept is amazing. The volunteers superb, the catering FANTASTIC.” Maritza Kocsis, walker on Stage 1
“Whole event exceeded my expectations, an amazing event run so smoothly, Steve you are incredible, I will be back.” Janine Thomas, biker on Stage 1
“Never had a holiday so demanding but then I've never finished a holiday feeling so pleased and proud of myself, thanks a million!” Tony Devenish, walker on Stage 1, 2 & 3
