About Us - Trips & Tramps

Steve is a dedicated, long term Managing Director of Trips and Tramps. Coming to Te Anau to guide on the Milford Track, he has worked in the tourism sector for over 30 years, both in New Zealand and abroad. A well known community figure he enjoys sharing Fiordland’s special places to visitors from all over the world. His consistent and dedicated leadership in the community and tireless enthusiasm as a keen conservationist influencing tourists, staff, Kepler Challenge runners, friends and family are well known and celebrated.

Kate graduated with a Parks and Recreation Diploma from Lincoln University and moved to Te Anau to work on the Milford Track for the Department of Conservation. For the last 25 years she has worked in the tourism field in a reservation and information capacity. Currently with a growing family, Steve and Kate combine the demands of four active children with managing the business and getting into the outdoors as much as possible.

Madeleine has worked for Trips & Tramps for a number of years (although she does keep leaving and then coming back).  Madeleine grew up in Te Anau and embodies the Trips & Tramps ethic, with a passion for Fiordland and conservation, plus a vast knowledge of the tourism industry on many levels.  After a stint at the local RTO, then Qualmark we are very lucky to have her providing the lead on our Health and Safety management systems and supporting the business so Steve and Kate can have some well-earned time off! 

Geoff is a born and bred local, with many years guiding, tramping and running around Fiordland. His rampant 'dad jokes' and first hand stories of the area ensure an entertaining day out.  A Trip Advisor review said that "Geoff is the man!" – we would have to agree!

Helen Dodson is getting back into the bush again, where she prefers to be! After years of working with the Department of Conservation in various roles, including with the Takahe Recovery project and in the Fiordland Visitor Centre, we are now fortunate to have her join the Trips & Tramps team as a guide. With a love of the outdoors, specifically tramping (ask her about her adventures on the Te Araroa Trail) she brings great passion to her work. A friendly face and awesome host, Helen always goes the extra mile to ensure everyone has a memorable experience when they join her group.

Andres, well to be honest is a bit of a nomad, but now proudly calls Fiordland home with his young family and wife!  He was born in Chile, had his childhood in Quebec, then travelled the world for years (Patagonia, France and finally Fiordland).  He has honed his skills as a trilingual guide and a musician along the way! When he's not in the green of Trips & Tramps you can hear him sing at the local restaurants. Between music, nature and family, he lives life as a very happy man. 

Meet Jojo, a true Kiwi from Central Otago! With a bright, bubbly personality and a friendly approach, Jojo is thrilled to be calling Fiordland home as they marry a local and settle down in this incredible part of the world. Jojo’s excitement for exploring Fiordland is contagious, and they can’t wait to share this stunning landscape with guests from all corners of the globe. Passionate about showcasing the natural beauty of the area, Jojo is ready to lead guests on unforgettable adventures and make every experience as memorable as Fiordland itself.

Andrew is Welsh by birth but a Kiwi at heart. He has tramped and climbed the hills and mountains of Fiordland for many years. He is also mad keen about rogaining and orienteering. Andrew serves the Fiordland community as a Search and Rescue volunteer, which also involved raising and training search dogs. He’s an interesting fella to be around!

Ross is a long-time local and there isn't much about Fiordland Milford Sound that he doesn't know. With a history working as a ranger for the Department of Conservation (for over 45 years). Ross is an expert in natural history, flora and fauna. A wealth of knowledge and just an all round nice guy, he is described as a 'true gentleman, ensuring we were well looked after the entire day''.

As the first-born daughter of owners Steve and Kate, Olivia has been part of the Trips & Tramps family and Fiordland's wilderness since day one. Joining the team after completing her studies to save up before embarking on her own travels, Olivia brings a bubbly, talkative spirit and boundless energy to every adventure. Fit and ready for any trail, Olivia is fantastic company for guests exploring the beauty of Fiordland, offering local insights and a lifelong love for the area.

Michelle comes from Dunedin and has a passion for sharing amazing outdoor places with people. She has a rich background in outdoor education and guiding, careers which have taken her all around the world - including Antarctica! She first started guiding in Fiordland in 2005. Michelle loves living in this area and reckons it's the best part of the country to live in - she hopes you will see why after spending some time here!"

Originally from England, Jacky now calls Manapouri home, drawn to Fiordland’s rugged beauty and its remote, untouched charm. Living off the grid and growing much of their own food, Jacky embraces a lifestyle deeply connected to the land. Their passion for Fiordland’s natural wonders is infectious, and they love sharing the magic of this far-flung paradise with visitors. With Jacky as your guide, you’ll experience Fiordland from the perspective of someone who lives and breathes its wilderness every day.

The wizard at Trips & Tramps would have to be PC! PC has a fantastic knowledge of all things Fiordland and has worked around the park in a number of different roles during his lifetime.  With his love of adventure, nature and people, he is lots of fun when exploring the Great Walks or Milford Sound.

Hailing from the vibrant streets of Mumbai, India, Hari came to Fiordland for just a season six years ago and quickly realised he had found his true home. With a deep appreciation for the ever-changing beauty of the landscape, he often says, "Every time I feel I've seen everything, it surprises me again." Committed to authenticity and empathy, he embodies kindness and warmth in all his interactions. Known as a walking encyclopedia, Hari is always ready to share fascinating facts and insights, making every journey an enriching experience for guests.

Rohann (Ro) originally hails from the North Island, but has swapped the big city lights for summers in Fiordland. Ro spends the winter working as a hiking counselor on a summer camp in America, and brings a bubbly enthusiasm to the role. She is passionate about sharing her love for all things Fiordland while getting out to explore the area whenever she can. 

Tara has spent years exploring the mountains and valleys of New Zealand, through both her work and play. She has a passion for sharing the outdoors with visitors from around the world and feels a deep connection to the land. Of Maori descent, she brings a holistic approach to her guiding and weaves traditional Maori concepts into the delivery of her experiences. 

Ben’s journey from England to Fiordland was inspired by the region’s breathtaking scenery, incredible marine wildlife, and raw, untamed beauty. With conservation experience across six countries, Ben brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep respect for nature to every tour. Known for his boundless enthusiasm and sharp British humor, Ben is sure to light up your day and keep you entertained while immersing you in Fiordland’s wonders. 

Jane is an avid adventurer who thrives on the thrill of the outdoors, whether she’s cycling, hiking, or checking stoat traps in the name of conservation. Living her best life in Fiordland, she passionately guides others to explore this breathtaking region. With a calm demeanor and a genuine love for nature, Jane is not only knowledgeable but also a wonderful companion on the trails. Her enthusiasm for the environment and commitment to conservation shine through, making every journey with her both enjoyable and enlightening.

Mel hails from Te Wai Pounamu, Aotearoa, and has always been captivated by the native bush, majestic mountains, and stunning granite rock formations of the Darren Mountains in Fiordland. With a degree in sustainability and outdoor education, she is passionate about promoting responsible exploration of the natural world. Growing up skiing in Wanaka and working as a via ferrata guide, Mel brings a wealth of adventure experience to the team. Her friendly, easy-going nature and can-do attitude make her an excellent companion on any hike, ensuring that every guest feels welcome.

Beth is a long-term local of Te Anau with a deep-rooted passion for climbing, kayaking, and immersing herself in the stunning mountains surrounding Fiordland. With over 20 years of experience in conservation management, she brings valuable insight into the region's ecology and preservation efforts. Beth loves engaging with guests to discover their interests, believing that a great day out is as much about the people as it is about the guide. Her warmth and enthusiasm make every adventure a shared experience, where everyone can appreciate the beauty of Fiordland together.