Meet our Guide: Georgia Corkill

Georgia grew up in the small, tight-knit coastal town of Beachlands, but these days, she calls Te Wai Pounamu home, usually basing herself in Wānaka or Ōtautahi, Christchurch to stay close to the mountains she loves. Georgia brings a warm, attentive approach to guiding, inviting you to slow down and truly observe the world around you. Whether it’s sharing a quiet moment with a curious bush robin on the trail or feeling the wild, living spirit of the West Coast on a stormy day, Georgia is all about helping you experience the raw, authentic beauty of Aotearoa at its best.

Tell us about your Hometown

I grew up in a sweet little coastal town called Beachlands, on the outskirts of Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland. It was an awesome place to free roam, where everyone knew everyone. Now I call Te Wai Pounamu, the South Island home, usually finding myself in Wānaka or Ōtautahi, Christchurch, where the mountains are nice and close.

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

Anything outside! Climbing, trail running, mountain biking, skiing, kayaking and more. I love moving my body and interacting with our world. Hiking is my zen space, but I also love a bit of speed and excitement. I am so lucky to be able to have the accessibility to all these pursuits in my backyard.

Can you a memorable encounter with wildlife during a hike?

We are never in too much of a rush, so I love to take the time to stop on the trail and quietly observe what is happening around me; this is usually when the curious bush robin and tomtit come and say hi, or when you tune into the twitters of a fantail or the distant screech of a kea. These interactions always feel so special.

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

Be prepared for any weather, and don’t underestimate it. Wind, rain, sun, you are going to get the whole lot and with the right clothing and a well-considered itinerary, you can embrace it all. 

Do you have a favourite trail snack or meal?

Chocolate! Especially any dark Whittaker’s block. Is that a bribe hint? You tell me.

Do you have a favourite part of our itinerary?

I genuinely love it all, but the West Coast is a special place for me. It is beautiful, untamed, and especially on the rough weather days you can feel its mauri (life force). That place is alive and wild, it is humbling, and I feel privileged to be able to walk on that soil.