Lydia Ford
Born and raised in New Zealand, I am back after some world travel and once again blown away by the beauty found around every corner and the friendliness of Kiwis! There is always something new to see and experience and even doing the same hike 100x never gets old when you see the mountains.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"New Zealand self drives with hidden gems to see and experience along the way. Hikes and active activities, especially in the beautiful South Island New Zealand. "
How did you get involved in travel?
"A spontaneous job application after a short stint as a pastry chef and here I still am! Travel is such a rewarding industry to be part of, ever changing and always something new to learn, see and experience! While I have moved around in the industry, sharing my experiences and getting people excited about their holiday plans is what I really enjoy.
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Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"I was out camping and we set an alarm at 2am when the skies would be dark to drive to a completely dark location to watch a meteor shower. Hanging out the sun roof in our pajamas and sleeping bags with hot chocolates watching hundreds of meteors was a pretty special experience!"
Featured trips & expertise
9 Days in New Zealand - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
With nine days in New Zealand, you can explore the highlights of the North and South Islands, including Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington, on a classic road trip. Or, take your time exploring the coastlines of the North Island, driving from the northernmost point of Cape Reinga to the glowworm caves in Waikato. If you're all about "Lord of the Rings" scenery and adrenaline-pumping activities, a South Island itinerary takes you from remote Fiordland to action-packed Queenstown.
Self-Drive New Zealand: Lakes, Mountains & Glaciers - 8 Days
Explore the beauty of New Zealand's South Island at your own pace with this self-drive tour. You'll start in Christchurch and drive through incredible villages to Queenstown. Next, you'll explore breathtaking national parks before taking one of the world's greatest train journeys back to Christchurch. Get your adrenaline rush in along the way by bungee jumping, heli-skiing, and mountain biking!
Northern New Zealand: Auckland, Bay of Islands & Matakana - 5 Days
On this short-yet-eventful tour of New Zealand, experience both the city and island life. Begin in Auckland, and take a scenic dinner cruise along the local harbors and marinas. Then, travel to the Bay of Islands and enjoy time in Paihia. Swim with dolphins, lounge on Te Ti Beach, and visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds for a guided history tour and a cultural performance. The trip concludes with an excursion into the Waipoua Forest, with its famous trees and acclaimed Matakohe Kauri Museum.
Outback Adventure: Uluru & Alice Springs - 5 Days
Explore the Australian Outback on this eventful five-day journey. Begin in Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, and discover the ancient Red Centre and its surroundings. Then, travel to Alice Springs to tour the art galleries and local sites, including Anza Hill and the Alice Springs Telegraph Station. Next, visit the red-hued West MacDonnell Ranges as a scenic sendoff.
New Zealand's North Island Adventure - 7 Days
This self-drive itinerary hits the highlights of New Zealand's North Island with a wide array of activities and landscapes. Along the way, you'll explore Auckland's best neighborhoods, sip pours from local wineries, go swimming and kayaking, and take part in Rotorua's geothermal treatments and Maori culture—all within the span of a week.
New Zealand's Ultimate Tour - 13 Days
Perfect for first-timers, this 13-day itinerary covers an epic variety of landscapes and activities that only New Zealand could offer. Starting in Auckland, you'll head south, passing through glowworm caves, natural mud baths, and famous film sets. Stay a few nights in Wellington before continuing to the South Island for the country's highest peaks, incredible natural wonders (like Milford Sound), and—if you so choose—a range of adrenaline sports to amp up this Kiwi adventure.
Recent trip reviews for Lydia
Just fabulous!
New Zealand
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Dec 18 - Jan 1, 2023
Lydia and her team at New Zealand Self Drive Tours were fantastic! They were quick to respond when there was a minor issue at one of the wine cellars and the issue was resolved immediately. And this was on Christmas eve!! The app was extremely helpful throughout our drive. Just one suggestion for the folks at the New Zealand Fine Touring-- The Milford Fly Cruise Fly website is inaccurate about the pick up times from the hotels in Queensland for the 10 am trip. Please let them know that people... read more
