Meet our Guide: Simone Thierstein

Meet Simone, our Swiss-Kiwi adventurer whose heart belongs to the wild trails of both hemispheres. Splitting her time between Rotorua, Nelson, and the South Island backroads (with a healthy dose of European escapades thrown in), she’s as at home tramping in remote bush as she is biking Nelson’s sunny trails. With a love for the mountains, and the comfort of a well-earned cup of tea, she brings a calm, considered energy to every hike—plus a knack for staying cheerful even when chasing possums out of huts (or hiding behind someone else doing it!).

Tell us about your hometown

I'm originally from Basel, Switzerland. Nowadays, I live between Rotorua and Nelson, with the last couple of years mostly on the road around the South Island, and also around Europe. I love Nelson, it is a cosy little town with great mountain biking and a good vibe. Also, it is indeed very sunny, love it!

Rotorua has been my 'home' base and I love the lakes and the trails in the forest. 

What do you do when you're not working or hiking?

I love a good adventure! I can often be found out on the trails somewhere running, riding my bike, or tramping. I also try to go back home to Switzerland every couple of years and treasure my time with family and old friends. 

What piece of gear you can't live without on the trail?

My sun hat - it keeps the sun, the rain, and my hair out of my face. 

Can you share a memorable encounter with wildlife during a hike?

I once arrived at a hut and noticed that the door hadn't been shut properly and a possum had got in. We cleaned up the mess and stink, looked for the possum (nowhere to be found) and went to bed. As I was falling asleep I noticed strange sounds coming from above me. I switched on my torch and was face to face with the offending possum. After gathering up our gear, Dave, my partner, chased the possum out of the hut with a broom, whilst I was hiding behind him, being a wuss. 

As a guide, what's your top tip for someone new to hiking in New Zealand?

Always bring a raincoat! And a down jacket if you're camping out. Sunscreen is a must and water isn't usually an issue to be found on trail.

How do you prepare for a multi-day hike?

I can be found pouring over maps, checking my gear and laying it all out and checking the weather. I also always make sure someone knows where I am going and when I'll be back.

How do you stay motivated on a long day on the trail?

I always carry my favourite tea bags and some chocolate for dessert, so I know that once I get to my destination, I will be getting warm and have some comfort food. Also - if I am having a bad day I remind myself what a privilege it is to be doing what I am doing (tramping, biking, running etc.) and to be excited about this opportunity. It always gets me to perk up and be stoked to be out on an adventure.