Biography
ENLARGE
Sian discovered her love of travel during her year at University in Germany after which she travelled around Europe by train. After graduating Sian went away to work on cruise ships for two years, cruising around Hawaii, Alaska, Bermuda, and parts of the Caribbean. She travelled around Southern Africa before leaving for New Zealand, where she fell in love with the dramatic scenery, the beautiful coastlines and above all the Kiwi hospitality. Since joining Audley she has returned to New Zealand and Fiji, visiting a wide range of properties, from small bed and breakfasts to boutique hotels and luxurious lodges, as well as experiencing many of our recommended excursions. Outside work Sian enjoys hiking and dancing.
My Most Memorable Experience
"The Routeburn Track is one of New Zealand Great Walks and is certainly one of my favourites. The track starts in Glenorchy and passes through Mount Aspiring National Park before heading out to Fjordland National Park and finishing at the Divide.
It is a 32km walk and some of the highlights include the climb up from the Harris Saddle to Conical Hill giving you spectacular views over the Hollyford Valley and across to the Tasman Sea.
This is normally walked in a leisurely three days which gives you plenty of time for those photo opportunities and to sit back and admire the beautiful scenery."
My Favourite Destination
"My favourite destination would have to be Great Barrier Island. Although the island is situated in the Hauraki Gulf just a thirty minute flight from Auckland, within minutes of arriving you have a feeling of total isolation from the outside world.
There are some wonderful walking tracks here as well as some great hot springs where you can relax after a long walk and enjoy the surrounding scenery. The island is very remote and the people who live here are extremely welcoming. There are some wonderful wild beaches and the fishing here is excellent."
My Favourite Accommodation
"I was lucky enough to stay at the Resurgence for two nights during my last trip to New Zealand and it was definitely a memorable time. The property is situated on the edge of the Kahurangi National Park making it an ideal base from which to explore both the Kahurangi and The Abel Tasman National Parks, the Golden Bay area and Nelson.
Claire and Peter are fantastic hosts and the food made with local produce and served with some of New Zealand's finest wines is simply divine.
Claire and Peter have a real passion for the New Zealand outdoors and will give you great advice about the best walks in the area. They are also keen conservationists and plant a tree for every guest that stay at the lodge."