We just came back to our ship from an amazing day in and around Wellington, NZ with Suzee from utours.
Tired of bus loads of confused travelers, talking over the guide, and then asking a question that was answered 20 minutes ago, we were looking for something different on this stop.
A Viator search took us to this excursion, and we are glad we found it.
Suzee responded almost immediately to our inquiry and set up a time for us to talk on WhatsApp, so she could understand what we were interested to see in Wellington in order to set up an appropriate day or half day tour for us.
She kept in touch as we travelled, and watched the ship’s progress, notifying us that it would be delayed docking in the AM. At the port, she told us just where to expect her, and easily picked us up in a shiny new VW van that was very comfortable and wonderfully quiet inside, too.
From the port, she guided us up to the Zealandia Eco Reserve for beautiful views of the many points of Wellington. Along the way, she explained the history of the area in a very conversational way that was engaging and allowed us to ask questions in real time. As she drove, Suzee pointed out the local flora and fauna, and we were able to see several of the often elusive Parson’s bird. From there, we headed back down to the coast to explore more, and enjoyed a fabulous seaside lunch of fresh grilled fish at the Chocolate Fish.
As we headed back into town, she asked if we needed to stop anywhere like a pharmacy, a bank, whatever. I realized that we needed a nightlight for our ship’s bathroom. She thought for a quick second, then chuckled a little and said, “well this is the first time anyone has asked me to visit a hardware store!” And, within minutes, we were at the local equivalent of a HomeDepot/Lowes, where she helped us pick out one that would work on the ship which had EU plugs rather than AUS plugs.
In town, she took us to the New Zealand Parliament and explained its history, and she pointed out when the Prime Minister was passing right by us. From there, we headed to Old Saint Paul’s. It looked like not so much from the outside, but she said we should really step inside. It had amazing woodwork and was well worth the stop.
And, with that, our day was done. I must say, it felt like we had come into town and met an old friend who joyously escorted us to all of the cool places, while we caught up!
If you are going to be in Wellington, we highly recommend this tour and suggest you join them for a private and meaningful tour of this beautiful city and its surrounding area.
Curiosity03717758737
13 Dec 2025
Don't miss an opportunity to go
With Suzee and Jo for a custom tour to meet your dreams!! Both are long time natives. They are engaging and delightful to be with. Fabulous van for comfort and great visibility for taking pics if you don't wish to get off at any o f the stops.Extremely knowledgeable, both in origin of NZ to current day. Their love of their country is inspiring. They will show you what drives them- love of country, love of people, love of animals and living a life to protect our world.
I was in a wheelchair and was thoughtfully accommodated in every way and they both made the day extra special for me. Even took us to great souvenir shop, not usual for visitors, etc.
Don't miss this opportunity to use Suzee and Jo. You will be blessed to a new adventure in your life.