Driftwood Eco Tours

Tourism & AdventureTasman District5.0(14 reviews)
Driftwood Eco Tours photo 1

About

Driftwood Eco Tours runs small-group, multi-day tours into remote parts of New Zealand, including South Island high country stations, D'Urville Island, and the Chatham Islands. Groups typically number 6 to 8 guests, up to 12 on Chatham Islands tours, and travel by private 4WD vehicle, boat, or small aircraft. The company has operated for more than 22 years, connecting travellers with local communities and rural hosts.

Reviews

Have recently returned from the Chatham Islands 8 day tour organised by Driftwood Eco Tours. It was well-organised, and everything ran smoothly. We learnt so much about the history and landscape of the island and were guided around the Island by locals who had lots of information to share. Our accommodation was wonderful, and the food was amazing. Definitely recommend the trip for anyone interested in learning about this part of NZ.

Robyn D. · December 2025 · via Google

I have recently returned from a Driftwood Eco Tour of the Chatham Islands which was absolutely amazing- right from the initial booking process with Maree, Julian meeting our group at Wellington Airport until the farewells with our great hosts Greg and Rosemarie at the Chathams Airport nothing could have been organized better- including the weather! Each day provided a variety of sightseeing trips from our leisurely start in the comfortable passenger van at 9.30am until we returned to the beautiful lodge at around 5pm. This gave us time to refresh have a drink and then sit down to enjoy beautiful home cooked dinners! Our local drivers either Greg or Deni provided an excellent commentary on all matters. One day we were lucky to have Mike a trained ornithologist join us . He was so passionate about the work being done by the Chatham Island restoration Trust and it is pleasing to know that Driftwood Eco Tours donate to this organization for each of their tours. The day trip to Pitt Island with Owenga Charters was a unique experience. We travelled on a small fishing boat which enabled us to explore the coastline far closer than the larger cruise ships that I am more used to being on! A definite highlight as was having the opportunity of meeting locals when we were hosted so generously by Meagan’s family on the Island. The fact that when we visited the wonderful Waitangi Museum on the last day and I felt that I knew most of the stories was a testament to all the locals we had been lucky enough to meet and have them share their stories with us. The trip was definitely one of a lifetime and exceeded all expectations! Speaking on behalf of my four family members we could not recommend the Driftwood Eco Tours of the Chathams more highly.

Linda C. · December 2025 · via Google

What an exceptional tour and operator. So organized and outstanding outstanding, accommodation and catering. Meet new friends that we continue to catch up with. We will be soon more tours with Rose and Will.

Jen A. · November 2022 · via Google

Thanks to Will and Sam I was able to get to most parts of D'Urville Is, that I would never get to on my own. This is the advantage being with a Driftwood Eco tour. I enjoyed Craig's hospitality and Cathy's cooking at D'Urville Lodge, the fish was delicious!.

Garth J. · May 2022 · via Google

very enjoyable and informative 4 days in Marlborough on the Molesworth tour. Great driver, great tour guide, also accommodation and meals and quality of visits for a variety of experiences.

Suzanne J. · April 2022 · via Google

Services

  • Kapiti to Molesworth high country fly-in tour
  • Chatham Islands tour
  • D'Urville Island tour
  • Molesworth & Rainbow high country tour
  • Mt White & Canterbury high country tour
  • St James wild horse sale tour
  • Private customised nature & heritage tours
  • Independent travel itinerary planning