Our Guides
Beau Rapley - head guide & owner
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My name is Beau Rapley and I am a native to Southern Lakes - I was born in the now Gibbston Valley wine region. I am passionate about the South Island, especially my local region of the Southern Lakes.
I was active in the rafting industry for over 20 years and was appointed one of five senior river guide positions in New Zealand, responsible for developing safety guidelines in the late 80’s. During that time, I was a member of the New Zealand White Water Team, traveling to compete in Russia 1989 and the USA in 1990. Thereafter, I was a commercial jet boat driver on the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers, and have been heavily involved in adventure tourism for many years.
My interests are wine, skiing, biking, hunting, fishing and travel. Most winters comprise of 2-3 months of jumping a plane to Europe with my bike to ride, with a late winter return to catch the best of skiing.
My real passion lies with where I live however, and I enjoy showing off our region to visitors. With local knowledge I can access many areas unknown to most, or privately owned.
If it's a wine tour you like, I will introduce you to the finest Pinot Noir found in Central Otago, or a family day out catering to everyone's needs - from fun and frivolity to fine dining.
I pride myself on delivering world class experiences to my guests. Guided biking and hiking is a specialty, with great knowledge of the native flora and fauna, adding to a well-rounded experience.
I invite you to join me on a South Island Odyssey and build some memories to take home, ones you'll never forget.
I was active in the rafting industry for over 20 years and was appointed one of five senior river guide positions in New Zealand, responsible for developing safety guidelines in the late 80’s. During that time, I was a member of the New Zealand White Water Team, traveling to compete in Russia 1989 and the USA in 1990. Thereafter, I was a commercial jet boat driver on the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers, and have been heavily involved in adventure tourism for many years.
My interests are wine, skiing, biking, hunting, fishing and travel. Most winters comprise of 2-3 months of jumping a plane to Europe with my bike to ride, with a late winter return to catch the best of skiing.
My real passion lies with where I live however, and I enjoy showing off our region to visitors. With local knowledge I can access many areas unknown to most, or privately owned.
If it's a wine tour you like, I will introduce you to the finest Pinot Noir found in Central Otago, or a family day out catering to everyone's needs - from fun and frivolity to fine dining.
I pride myself on delivering world class experiences to my guests. Guided biking and hiking is a specialty, with great knowledge of the native flora and fauna, adding to a well-rounded experience.
I invite you to join me on a South Island Odyssey and build some memories to take home, ones you'll never forget.
Felix Ellis
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My name is Felix Ellis. In 2011, I came from the UK to settle permanently in New Zealand, the land of my grandfather. I fell in love with the southern lakes area as soon as I arrived, shortly after I met my now wife (a local Arrowtown girl) and we live, work, play and raise our young family.
My passions are biking, skiing, hunting, spearfishing and cooking, including the yearly batch of homemade marmalade (my vice). I have worked as a cowboy in Australia, gamekeeper in Scotland’s Western Isles and a ski guide in the French alps, but the Wakatipu region of New Zealand is the place I’m proud to call home and it's a pleasure to share with others this treasure of the south.
Whether you’re looking for an informative tour of wineries and local history or a unique adventure, made possible through Beau’s local connections and knowledge, it’ll be a pleasure to host you for an exceptional, and high class experience.
My passions are biking, skiing, hunting, spearfishing and cooking, including the yearly batch of homemade marmalade (my vice). I have worked as a cowboy in Australia, gamekeeper in Scotland’s Western Isles and a ski guide in the French alps, but the Wakatipu region of New Zealand is the place I’m proud to call home and it's a pleasure to share with others this treasure of the south.
Whether you’re looking for an informative tour of wineries and local history or a unique adventure, made possible through Beau’s local connections and knowledge, it’ll be a pleasure to host you for an exceptional, and high class experience.
About Jock
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Beau's right hand man Jock can always be requested to join your tour for dog / animal lovers. Jock is a well-trained young labrador who loves people.