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About Us
Since 1982, Southern Wilderness has evolved to become the 'Gourmet Guided Walks Specialists'. Under the ownership of Ryan Kelly, 'Safety, Quality, Professionalism and Fun' are the key words for Southern Wilderness' vision. Ryan has spent many years in the outdoor and tourism industry, including time as head guide on the famous Routeburn Track. He understands that small personal groups are the key to lasting memories. That's why, on a Heaphy Track or Nelson Lakes multi-day walk with Southern Wilderness, there is a ratio of one guide to four guests, with a maximum group size of eight. The guides are all passionate, friendly people, with a wealth of knowledge and life experience. They each know what it takes to orchestrate a truly unique journey.
Southern Wilderness is committed to being a world class guiding company.
What does this mean? We want to be the best that we can personally be. We want to be positively involved in the lives of all we interact with and we won't waste time with mediocrity. We continually ask ourselves the question: are we involved? Are we having a positive impact within the community, on our environment, on each other's lives, and on our guests' experience? Is this a company we would happily open up for the world to see our actions? The only acceptable answer is yes.
We believe in being gentle on the environment we play in; reducing, reusing and recycling wherever possible, we believe that we positively influence others around us. In addition, we are proud supporters of conservation projects in the National Parks that we operate in. Click here for more information...
Our team is made up of passionate people, who love the outdoors and, more importantly, love to share the outdoors with our guests.
So why not come and try hiking the gourmet way? Let Southern Wilderness look after you on a journey through New Zealand's finest National Parks.