New Zealand - recommended tours and tour operators by Mark Sukhija

Please mention MarksTravelNotes.com when booking at these fine establishments. I have used all these operators.

North Island

Art Deco Trust - Napier - Runs regular walking tours of Napier run by local people with stories of their and their families experience of the earthquake. Tours include a presentation of the history of Napier and the Art Deco style.
Helitours, nr Taupo - Offers a selection of scenic flights around the Taupo Region and across New Zealand I've been on one of Taupo Scenic flights which included landings at the volcanic areas and excellent views of the Huka Falls.

Bay Tours and Charters - Hawkes Bay - Bay Tours offers a range of tours of vineyards around the Hawkes Bay region. Tours typically include a minimum of 4-vineyards include at least one boutique and a major producer and several include a cheese board or a visit to specialist food outlet. Tours include full and half-day formats.
Tamaki Tours, Rotorua - Insights into Maori culture in Rotorua including a trip to a Pa with a Hangi. Founded by a pair of Harley-loving Maori, the guides are enthusiastic and knowledgable about Maori history and culture.

Gannet Safaris - Knowledgeable guides drive you in 4x4 vehicles through farmland to the Gannet Colony at the peak of Cape Kidnappers. Sheer cliffface and dramatic vistas across Hawkes Bay provide a stunning backdrop to this fine bird sanctuary. Swooping Gannets breed regularly at the Cape - returning every year. Pickups available in Napier at the i-Site.

White Heron Tours, Whataroa - The White Heron Sanctuary at Whataroa is the only breeding ground for White Herons in New Zealand The White Heron Tours offer trips by minibus and jet boat to the see the Herons. There's a short walk through some native bush to a hide across the river.
Elm Wildlife Tours, Otago Peninsula - Elm Wildlife Tours offer a selction of tours through and around the Otago Peninsula. Trips include visits to see the Albatross Colony and the Yellow Eyed Penguins as well as seal colonies.
Appellation Central, Central Otago - Appellation Central offers an excellent selection of tours through vineyards of Central Otago. Tour sizes are kept small which provides an excellent sense of intimacy and conviviality. Tour guides are knowledgable of both wine and the local region.