Meet our Guide: Alastair Holley

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Tell us about your hometown.

My original home town is London but I soon realised the lack of mountains was a problem, so upon lots of exploring around the world my new home town is Christchurch.  It's great for its access to lots wild spaces in all directions.

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

When not outdoors I teach first aid courses (often with an outdoor theme), foster kittens and dogs with my family, and we love to cook so always finding new recipes to try.

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

I can't go without my lip balm, chapped lips are a nightmare.  Mine has SPF so if I've forgotten my sunscreen I've smashed it all over my face on more than 1 occasionan.

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

I've had so many great encounters with Kea, NZ's cheekiest alpine parrot.  One was stole my glove at the top of a mountain on a big snow day and dropped it off the edge of a cliff never to be seen again so spent the rest of the day with my hand shoved under my armpit.

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

Take your time, NZ has wonders both big and small. Just keep looking around and you'll be amazed what you see.

Do you have a favourite trail snack or meal?

Pic's peanut butter slugs, of you know you know!

What’s one place you haven’t hiked yet but would love to explore?

Stewart Island/Rakiura is the place i really want to explore next.