With a warm smile, infectious enthusiasm, and a wealth of knowledge about every hidden corner of New Zealand, Isobel is the kind of Travel Director who transforms a simple journey into an unforgettable adventure. Having guided countless visitors through the stunning landscapes of the North and South Islands and rich cultural experiences of Aotearoa, she’s mastered the delicate balance of structured guided tour experiences and spontaneous discovery that makes an AAT Kings tour truly special. Whether she’s sharing local legends beside a glacial lake in the Southern Alps, introducing guests to their first taste of Kiwi cuisine, or pointing out Lord of the Rings filming locations, Isobel’s passion for her homeland shines through in every moment. Join us as she takes us behind the scenes of life as an AAT Kings Travel Director and shares her unique perspective on the magic of New Zealand.
Isobel Needham, Travel Director – Author
The Journey to Becoming a Travel Director
I became a Travel Director after going on a tour myself and thinking, “Wait… they pay someone to be on holiday?!” It seemed like the dream job – travel, fun people, and no spreadsheets. Of course, I quickly learned it’s not just one big holiday (shocking, I know). There’s a lot of behind-the-scenes hustle and I still use spreadsheets every day!
But I genuinely love it. What keeps me going is the mix of stunning landscapes, unexpected moments, and watching guests fall for Aotearoa. One day it’s geothermal pools or Tongariro National Park, the next dolphins during a boat ride in the Bay of Islands or mountain ranges along the West Coast. Every group is different, every day is different, and somehow, even after all the planning, it still feels like magic.
Hidden Treasures of New Zealand
There are plenty of classic Kiwi spots that live up to the hype—Milford Sound, Queenstown, Rotorua—but some of my favourite places are the ones that fly under the radar. Ōamaru is one I always love. It’s got this crazy mix of old and new and just general weirdness in the best way. Guests are always surprised by how much they enjoy it—plus, where else can you buy taxidermy, artisanal chocolate, and a top hat all in one street?
Te Anau’s another favourite. It gets overshadowed by nearby Milford Sound, but it’s such a sweet little town—glowworm caves, a beautiful lake, and that quiet calm that hits different after a few big days on tour. Plus, it’s the perfect place to refuel with a cold New Zealand wine and a dozen bluffies (Bluff Oysters) if the time is right.
And then there’s Twizel on a clear night. Not exactly hidden, but when the stars come out it always feels like a bit of magic—especially if you’ve got a hot chocolate in hand and a warm jacket on.
The real hidden treasure though? Honestly, it’s the random roadside stops during our road trip adventures—local bakeries, breathtaking views, a short walk to a hidden waterfall, a herd of sheep crossing the road. Those little moments off the itinerary often end up being the ones people talk about the most.
The Lighter Side of Tour Guiding
What do they say? What goes on tour, stays on tour? Once I bumped into Brad Pitt, like literally bumped into him; his huge Italian bodyguard didn’t think it was very funny. A colleague of mine gave welcome drink vouchers to the band Kings of Leon – who misunderstood her when she asked if they were going on tour – she thought they were her missing guests! At the end of a long season, it can be hard to separate the hilarious from the horrifying. Most of the best stories are not safe for this platform, but if you buy me a Margarita, I’ll tell you some wild and wonderful stories!
Creating an Inclusive Environment
Creating an inclusive, welcoming environment on tour is something I’m passionate about. My goal is always to make sure everyone feels like they’re part of the group—whether it’s their first time away from home or they’ve travelled the world. I start by setting the tone early on—keeping things light, fun, and approachable. I try to get to know everyone, even if it’s just a quick “what’s your favourite snack?” or “what’s your ideal travel destination?” that opens the door for deeper conversations down the line.
I also recognise that every group is unique, with different needs, backgrounds, and expectations, so I try to adapt on the fly. If someone’s shy, I’ll check in with them quietly. If someone’s super outgoing, I’ll make sure they have opportunities to share and connect with others. It’s all about balance and keeping the vibe comfortable and safe for everyone.
I think the key is to make the group feel like a community right from the start. Sometimes, it’s the small things—a surprise treat on the bus, helping someone understand the local Māori culture or language, or even laughing over an unexpected moment—that bring people together. When everyone feels heard and valued, cultural differences become something to celebrate instead of barriers. It’s all about finding those connections—whether it’s over shared humour, new experiences, or the universal love of a good mince and cheese pie.
The Transformative Power of Travel
For me, the goal is always more than just ticking off the usual sightseeing checklist. Sure, the landscapes are stunning, but I want guests to take away something that goes beyond the visuals—a deeper connection to the land, the people, and the Māori culture. In a world that’s always on the go, sometimes the most transformative experience comes from simply being present and appreciating the moment for what it is.
Travel, to me, is an opportunity to gain a new perspective—not just on the places we visit, but also on how we interact with the world. When guests connect with the stories and traditions of Aotearoa, they often leave with a renewed sense of curiosity and a greater understanding of the world’s diverse cultures, whether they’re exploring the national treasures at Te Papa museum or walking through the magical Hobbiton Movie Set.
In terms of cultural growth, I aim to offer a glimpse into the uniqueness of Aotearoa and the richness that Tikanga Māori brings to everyday life. It’s about helping guests realise that travel isn’t just about seeing the sights—it’s about learning, connecting, and gaining a new perspective that they can carry with them long after the tour ends.
The Perfect Lasting Memory
If I could paint the perfect lasting memory for my guests, it would be the feeling of awe and peace that comes from standing in a truly special place and realising just how small we are in the grand scheme of the world—but how connected we are to it all at the same time.
New Zealand has a way of doing that—it’s a country that humbles you with its natural beauty, from the snow-capped Southern Alps to the crystal-clear lakes. But more than that, it’s the way the land speaks to you. Whether it’s the stillness of a morning at Te Anau, the sound of waves crashing on a remote beach, or the warmth of a simple “Kia Ora!”
I want guests to carry with them the quiet power of Aotearoa’s landscapes, from the ancient rainforests to the magnificent Franz Josef Glacier, and the deeper understanding of its history and people. More than anything, I want them to carry a sense of gratitude and joy. There’s something about New Zealand that reminds you how important it is to be in the moment—to appreciate the little things. These simple moments often turn into the lasting memories, and that’s the kind of emotional connection I hope they take home with them.
Insider Tips for Travellers
Here’s the real advice: snacks, snacks, and more snacks! Seriously, snacks are the key to happiness on the road. Not only do they keep you energised, but they also help you get into the local culture. Every country has its go-to snacks, and New Zealand is no different.
Have you heard of Squiggles? If not, you haven’t truly lived! They’re like a Kiwi rite of passage, and once you try them, you’ll wonder why no one told you about them sooner. Also, the ice cream—there’s a reason New Zealand has the highest per capita consumption of ice cream in the world, because it’s so darn good.
Also, snacks aren’t just for filling the gap between meals; they’re a great conversation starter. Offering your new friends a Squiggle can lead to the most unexpected chats, and they might just share a secret local spot with you.
And for practicality—the bumbag. It’s a game-changer. Whether you’re hiking up Queenstown Hill or fighting against a Wellington northerly, a bumbag is the most efficient way to keep your essentials safe and accessible. Plus, it’s hands-free, so you can focus on more important things like finding your next ice cream or planning your next short walk through one of our beautiful national parks.
Isobel’s Top 5 Must-Do Experiences on AAT Kings Tours
1. Cruising Milford Sound (especially on a clear day)
You can see a thousand photos and still not be prepared for how jaw-droppingly beautiful Milford Sound is. When the sun’s out and the waterfalls are in full flow—it’s like nature’s flexing on you. This iconic boat ride through fiord country delivers every time. Bonus points if there are dolphins. Double bonus if there are seals. Triple bonus if your group breaks into spontaneous applause, which happens more than you’d think.
Experience this on the New Zealand Marvel
2. The TSS Earnslaw in Queenstown
An old-school steamship crossing a lake surrounded by mountains? Yes please. But it’s not just the views—it’s singing around the piano onboard, the chance to watch the sheepdogs work at Walter Peak Station, and that BBQ buffet that no one ever regrets. It’s one of those moments where the group really bonds… usually over dessert. This historic boat ride offers stunning views of the Southern Alps from a unique perspective.
Experience this on the Southern Spotlight
3. A visit to Te Pā Tū in Rotorua
This isn’t a show—it’s a warm welcome into a proud culture. The haka gives everyone goosebumps, and sitting down to share a hāngī meal made in the earth is a whole different kind of powerful. This immersive Māori culture experience is consistently rated as one of our most award-winning activities. Guests always say it’s one of the most meaningful parts of the trip—and they’re right.
Experience this on the Iconic North
4. Pure Wilderness Jet Boating & Nature Walk in Te Anau
This one always surprises people—in the best way. It’s got the adrenaline of a jet boat ride through the magnificent waterways of Fiordland, but then it slows right down into this quiet, untouched part of Fiordland National Park. The stillness, the birdsong, the ancient forest… it feels like stepping back in time. Plus, guests love the feeling that they’ve gone somewhere not everyone gets to see. It’s not just wilderness—it’s pure wilderness, and the name delivers. Our jet boat rides here are consistently rated as top experiences.
Experience this on the Kia Ora New Zealand.
5. The Coastal Drive to Kaikōura
This stretch of road trip is criminally underrated. You’ve got rugged cliffs on one side, the Pacific Ocean on the other, and if you’re lucky, seals sunbathing right beside the highway. It’s the kind of drive where everyone suddenly stops talking because the views are that good. And when the famous mountain Tapuae-o-Uenuku peeks through the mist behind the coastline? Priceless! This scenic drive along the East Coast offers some of the most spectacular vistas in all of New Zealand.