Meet our guides...

Name: Ben Laffan
Position: Lead Guide

Bio:
I’ve pretty much always worked in the outdoors. Before starting with ACTIVE I guided hikers on the Milford Track and drove high-speed jet boats in the Shotover Canyon near Queenstown. I have returned for a New Zealand summer after spending several months diving with turtles, among other adventures, in Laos, Borneo and Thailand. I also hold the self-awarded title for Maker of the World’s Best Milos – a New Zealand specialty!

What our clients have said:

"Ben was a superb Lead Guide. He was wealth of information on everything from geology to history to botany. I don't recall a question that he could not answer during our two weeks in New Zealand. Most importantly he tailored the activities to everyone's fitness level and ability. I should add that Ben has an excellent sense of humour and an incredibly safe driver. "
-- Justin Mellor (AB, Canada) May 2007 Winter Rimu

"Excellent! Ben has in depth knowledge of NZ flora, fauna, culture, and geography that is rare and remarkable. Ben was also remarkably patient in adapting the schedule to accomodate more active clients."
-- Bob Koshy (NC, United States) November 2005 Rimu

"Ben is an outstanding guide. I really appreciated his knowledge of the geography and the natural and cultural history of New Zealand. He has a great sense of humor, gets along fabulously with people, yet is always professional."
-- Melannie Hartman (CO, United States) January 2006 Rimu

"Ben is the essence of New Zealand and the absolute perfect Lead Guide. He could answer any question ever asked about New Zealand, and anyone can see he loves everything about his country. Through him, I think our entire group learned more about themselves than they ever thought possible. Remarkable guy!"
-- Julie Gliesing (CT, United States) May 2006 Winter Rimu