Chelsea Lodge
Although I have not been with New Zealand Self Drive Tours as long as others, my passion and knowledge for New Zealand go way back. Having spent my childhood adventuring around I went on to become a New Zealand guide. I have a great understanding of what works for some might not for someone else, after all, we're all different. I strongly believe the best way to get the most out of your holiday is to take guidance from one of our team, we will listen, create and support you through the entire process.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"I spent almost three years living and working on the road around New Zealand as a tour guide. My favourite areas to explore are definitely those around the Southern Alps which include fiords, glaciers, and glacial-fed lakes. There are so many varied activities you can do in these areas that I will find the best fit for your activity level to ensure you get to have the best experience."
How did you get involved in travel?
"I travelled overseas and realised how special New Zealand was and how lucky we were to have this as our backyard. I wanted to share it with you!
I started my tourism experience as a Tour guide, showing New Zealand off for almost 3 years. I moved into different seasonal roles within the tourism industry before taking up this role where I get to help you in the first stages of your New Zealand holiday planning and continue that journey with you right through till you return home. I love that I get to be a part of your entire holiday process and recommend my favourite places for you to visit."
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"Spending New Year's Eve on the overnight boat trip in Milford Sound. The weather was incredible and we were able to swim and kayak in the afternoon and then the following morning the clouds had rolled in and it was stunning and moody and the dolphins came along for a swim off the bow waves of the boat. "
Featured trips & expertise
Best of the South Island Road Trip: Glaciers, Mountains, Coasts & Fjords - 21 Days
Explore the entire length of New Zealand's South Island on this exciting 21-day road trip. Start in the tranquil coves of Abel Tasman National Park before following the coastline to Kaikoura for some whale watching. Continue through Christchurch and Dunedin as you make your way to the deep, cold waters of Fiordland National Park and the frozen peaks of the Southern Alps.
Classic Australia: Melbourne, Uluru & Sydney - 12 Days
Leave no stone unturned on this epic 12-day adventure that covers the best of southern, northern, and southeastern Australia. You'll journey from the up-and-coming city of Melbourne and travel along the Great Ocean Road, followed by a trip to the mystical rock formations dotting the arid deserts of the Red Centre. End the trip in Sydney, where you'll explore this handsome metropolis on city tours, boat tours, and beach excursions—you'll even take a day trip to the rugged Blue Mountains.
New Zealand: Ultimate South Island Self-Drive - 21 Days
This 21-day road trip carves a figure-eight through New Zealand's South Island. From Christchurch, travel through the Mackenzie Country to Aoraki / Mount Cook, then on to Otago and Dunedin. Explore remote Doubtful Sound before heading north to Queenstown and the West Coast Glaciers, then cross the Southern Alps to enjoy a night in Arthur's Pass National Park. After exploring the Marlborough wine region and the golden sands of Abel Tasman National Park, end your trip with a scenic train journey back to Christchurch.
New Zealand's South Island: Luxury Self-Drive Tour - 15 Days
Experience the wilderness and wildlife of New Zealand's South Island on this 15-day self-drive itinerary. By day you'll drive through breathtaking landscapes and embark on outdoor adventures, while nights are spent in a series of secluded luxury lodges. Setting off from Christchurch, enjoy alpine walks in Mount Cook National Park, discover rich marine life on the Otago Peninsula, and cruise through the remote Doubtful Sound in Fiordland National Park. After adrenaline sports in Queenstown and an unforgettable trek across the Franz Josef Glacier, the scenic TranzAlpine train whisks you back to Christchurch.
Best of New Zealand & Australia: Queenstown, Cairns, Sydney & More - 15 Days
This fun two-week tour allows you to experience some of the highlights of New Zealand's South Island, as well as Australia's east coast. Begin in Christchurch, then travel across the mountains to explore mountains, glaciers, fiords, and the 'Adventure Capital of New Zealand', Queenstown. Traveling across to Australia, snorkel at the Great Barrier Reef, visit one of the oldest rainforests in the world at the Daintree National Park, have fun at a theme park on the Gold Coast, see the highlights of Sydney, and marvel at the unparalleled natural beauty of the Blue Mountains. This tour fits a lot of varied sights and experiences into two action-packed weeks.Â
2 Weeks in New Zealand - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
With two weeks, you can get to know both of New Zealand's islands or enjoy an in-depth exploration of either one. Take a North Island road trip from Auckland to Wellington, or stick to the South Island with stops in Queenstown, Te Anau, Wanaka, and Christchurch. Alternatively, opt for a multi-country trip that combines New Zealand's highlights with one full week in Australia.
Recent trip reviews for Chelsea
Phoebe and her team at Zip Line were amazing....
New Zealand
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Jan 2 - Jan 17, 2023
Phoebe and her team at Zip Line were amazing. Phil on the jet boat at Lake Taupo was particularly good with the younger children. The bus trip to the north of the Bay of Islands and Cape Reinga were enjoyable but too long a day. Accommodation was all good. read more
Hi Karen,
Thank you very much for your feedback and I am so pleased that you and the family had a wonderful time in New Zealand.
Thank you
Chelsea
Wonderful 1st introduction to the North Island!
New Zealand
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Sep 29 - Oct 7, 2022
Chelsea put together a fantastic itinerary for the North Island; the lodgings were fantastic, and the agenda was a nice blend of activities and downtime to explore. Unfortunately, one of the activities was canceled because of weather, but Chelsea was on top of it, letting me know right away, and helping me find alternatives. When I got in country she was indispensable, especially as unfortunately I got a little sick at the outside of the trip, but she helped me take care of the schedule.... read more
Hi Court,
Thank you so much for your feedback and I am so pleased that despite being unwell you were still able to enjoy your holiday.
I hope we can welcome you to New Zealand again in the future.
Chelsea