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In a achievement that highlights years of dedication and excellence, the Hollyford Wilderness Experience has also been recognised in the top ten percent TripAdvisor experiences worldwide.
Alongside Rotorua’s National Kiwi Hatchery, Hollyford’s recognition reflects not only the exceptional quality of the experience itself but also the commitment to customer satisfaction demonstrated by the team behind it.
Hollyford Wilderness Experience general manager, Adam Dooney says “That recognition from our customers through TripAdvisor, and we get a lot of feedback from the customers on how much, you know, they enjoyed the trip and how much it exceeded their expectations. “But to then be recognised by TripAdvisor as well, this is really the cherry on top for us.”
In addition, The Hollyford Wilderness Experience has undergone numerous upgrades over the years, from enhancing the product to ensuring top-notch training for staff.
Adam says “There’s been a lot of upgrades to the product and, you know, every year we work on training the staff. It really has started to show now. The product is just incredible, and the customers are obviously noticing that and appreciating it, which is just amazing.”
A significant part of their success also lies in their openness to feedback. “We’re always open to that feedback.” he says.
“That’s what takes a good product and makes it a great product, right? Listening to your customers, giving them the open channels to be able to give you feedback, both positive and constructive, on areas that are working well and areas for improvement.”
With the experience designed to be intimate, with only 16 customers at a time, allowing for a more personalised approach, Adam says “We’re only taking a small group of people every year, which allows us to be more adaptive to what customers need and want. It also makes the experience more intimate compared to other products that might have 50 or more hikers on a trip.”
The Hollyford Wilderness Experience is not just about the stunning landscapes and luxurious lodges; it’s also about the deep connections formed between staff and guests.
Adam says “Our staff work really, really hard to get to know each guest. They’re with us for four days, so there’s that opportunity to make new friends, not just within their group, but also with our staff.” “We get a lot of feedback about just how connected our staff are to the place and to the people coming through.”
This connection extends to the guides, who bring the flora, fauna, and history of the area to life for guests. Adam says “Our guides have the opportunity to really bring the flora and fauna and the people history to life.” People never look at the forests the same once they’ve been on the trip with us because they learn so much about the ecosystem.”
The holistic approach to sharing the region’s rich history, in collaboration with local communities, adds another layer to the experience. “We work really closely with the local iwi to ensure that our stories are correct and that we are telling the stories they want us to tell to our customers.” says Adam.
