"Der Trip mit Alpine Recreation, war sehr sehr gut. Wenn es auch manchmal anstrengend war, habe ich die Zeit sehr genossen. Es war das beste was ich in meinem Urlaub gemacht habe, der 80 Tage lang war. Diesen Trip sollten sie so lassen wie er ist, es gibt da nichts zu verbessern meiner Ansicht nach. Die Hütte " Caroline Hut" ist auch ganz toll, alleine die Lage ist einzigartig. In dieser fantastischen Bergkulisse. Die Innenaustattung ist auch so wie man es erwartet, karg und einfach. Auf einer solchen Tour erwartet man doch auch kein Luxushotel. Würde auch garnicht dazu passen. Die Verpflegung war auch ganz gut, der Bergführer ist auch ein ganz guter Koch. Machen sie weiter so, der Trip ist perfekt, das Preis Leistungsverhältnis passt. Die Guides sind gut, die Hütte gut. Alles gut."
A. Brandmeier, Germany. Februar 2010
"I went with Alpine Recreation on their Ball Pass guided hike, and amid an amazing 2 week trip to the South Island, it was undisputedly the highlight. We spent New Year at Caroline Hut as a gregarious group, and under a full moon, surrounded by some of the best views in New Zealand. The guides looked after us right down to brewed coffee upon arrival at the very well set up Caroline Hut, taking us through fundamental mountain skills in the day and providing quality meals and company at all times."
D. Butcher, Australia. January 2010
"This is the most exciting, adventurous, and most difficult thing that I have done and am so glad that I had the opportunity to do this. I nearly cancelled because last August I was retrenched from my job and have only been working part time since. However my family encouraged me to continue. So on many levels this was a trek of a life time. "
E. Knopper, Australia. January 2010
"It was a great trip, great guides, great hut, very well organised, personal, small group, really: excellent!!! Hopefully you will be able to continue to work in this small scale personal approach with such great guides. You are really lucky to have this private hut. As you can see on my weblog, I described it as probably the best located hut of New Zealand with its stunning views and proximity of the highest mountain of NZ, Mount Cook."
M. Zondag, Amsterdam. January 2010
"...the whole package of experiences is superb.....of driving up to the start in the old Troop Carrier, the ridge climb with a glacier over your shoulder, a great hut at the end of the day, excellent food, exciting locations and amazing views....it's really, really good......and I know this because everyone on the trip had such a wonderful time and kept talking about it afterwards."
J. Verhagen, Sydney. January 2010
“We really enjoyed the Ball Pass Trip 13-15 December. It was the highlight of our trip to New Zealand. For the three in our party, this was certainly the most challenging short trip we have undertaken (and we've walked the entire length of the Pyrenees Haute Route in summer). It was a fantastic and memorable three days with incredible variation in weather conditions - from torrential rain - to glorious Alpine sunshine - to heavy snowfall. An epic adventure I will never forget!”
D. Dugan, London. December 2009
“The crossing turned out to be all that it was made out to be. I’ll always cherish the views of the surrounding mountains, the crisp cool air and tramping in the snow in the summer. This was the first time I had used crampons. Andy and Mike were both superb guides – thoughtfully accommodating to the needs of the moment at all times.”
M. Chee, Singapore. December 2009
"I thought the trip was fantastic. Ball Pass was gorgeous, and the hut is a very special place! I thought every aspect of the trek was extremely well-organized and well-executed. Andrew, Wolfgang, and Mike were wonderful guides; they were skilled, knowledgeable, friendly, and fun. I also thought the trip was excellent value. I particularly appreciated being able to borrow high-quality gear at no extra charge.
M. Seifter, Germany. November 2009
"The calibre of the guides was exceptional. Not only did they have the required expertise, they had very good people skills and they were intelligent with very good knowledge of peripheral topics."
T. Nicklin, Auckland. March 2009
"As you can imagine I am still not quite 'back on the ground' - having arrived back last week to a relatively flat landscape in Perth and still feeling as though I am amongst the magnificent mountains of Aoraki. It has been really difficult explaining your extraordinary landscapes to my family. But I have formed an opinion of my experience based largely on the professionalism of Alpine Recreation and have summarised as follows:
- eye-catching website
- realistic expectations of each days events (in fact more than I expected)
- realistic setting of grade (extreme)
- firm, polite, fair and strong leadership shown by Andrew
- excellent, no fuss catering
- very ecologically/sustainability aware and in practice
- Andrew maintained an adequate pace for the group or four (ages 70, 60, 58 and 50) although a few more photo stops would have been appreciated.
I believe this program provides an excellent introduction to the spirit of the mountains and is well marketed."
C. Morris, Perth. February 2009
"I've done a lot of trips around NZ in my travels over years and I would rate this as the best trip. It was superb, not just due to the tramp and scenery themselves. I think the organization was excellent. I was also very impressed with the easy access to any equipment/outdoor supplies to borrow for the trip."
S. de Boer, Auckland. February 2009
" Just a quick email to say how much we enjoyed our trip, it was far harder than we anticipated (and we knew it would be hard) but we loved every minute. David and Andrew were wonderful guides we thank them for all their patience! We were so lucky with the weather 3 days of glorious sunshine, we were truly blessed. The last day was rather long to put it mildly, but we all felt a real sense of achievement. Both of our children say it is the best holiday we have ever been on, and we have had some very good holidays. We were just looking at a DVD of photos at the weekend that Neil who was on our trip sent through to us, he took some great photos that really show the enormity and beauty of the landscape, and the challenge we faced. Many thanks."
L. Glen, Auckland. December 2008
"All round an excellent experience - clearly an organization run for the love of the activity and one where considerable thought and care has gone into making all aspects of the trip enjoyable, successful, and safe. I can honestly say this was by far the best guided experience I have ever had."
J. Martin, New York. December 2008
"Both Andrew and Martin were excellent guides - positive, helpful and full of details of the area. They gave the trip a great 'vibe". Safety was always a priority. Couldn't have asked for more. I was really happy and impressed with all aspects of the trip. A wonderful few days that will stay with me for a very long time. Hope to see you again soon."
G.Reade, NSW, Australia. November 2008
"When I returned to Auckland, I felt so good and all my friends told me that I was 'glowing' and looked 'rested'....Hiking above the tree line in mountains away from phones, computers and work, I feel like I am being treated by the 'nature therapist' - I find it absolutely exhilarating and the effect lasts for a couple of weeks after I return to my desk....After Ball Pass, I am now ruined for 'Great Walks' with 40 other people where you spend one day in trees (usually beech), one day alpine and then 1 or 2 days in trees again." M. Blackwood, Auckland. March 2008
It was a wonderful time going over Ball Pass with your company, and I will be happy to recommend you to any friends who are interested. You can't be faulted! A very well run trip, and friendly company. It was lovely to have the extra day to spend in the environment and learn about equipment and techniques from the guide. All the planning and organization has been thought out well, with lovely touches like hut slippers and books and games. The food was excellent in menu, presentation, and quantity. Andrew was a great guide who was very competent, personable and positive. The trip was well organized and very manageable." N. Whyte, Alexandra. Jan. 2008
"I took part in your Ball Pass trip (23rd - 25th December 2007). Suffice to say I thoroughly enjoyed it and found Martin to be an excellent guide. I've written a review of the trip for my website You can access it here...
A. Benson.
"The Ball Pass Crossing was well run and everything that your information said it would be. Three things in particular stand out: the guides were very skilled, good, safe and great company to be with - they are a real asset to your company. The traverse of the icy slope on Ball Pass was safely organised. The running out of lines- ropes between anchors down which we could walk was particularly appreciated. The practice with ice axes etc. the day before was also well run. Finally, the Caroline Hut was a spectacular place to stay. "
P. Copeland, UK. March 2007.
"Fantastic trek, eye-popping views, great guides, great tales." A. Symons, Australia, Mar. 2006.
"In February 2006 I did with your organisation the Ball-pass crossing, from what I've heard a crossing that Gottlieb "invented" and created in the way Alpine Recreation offers it today. For me it was outstanding, the best experience of New-Zealand and one which I still remember as is happened yesterday. Not only because of the sights, but also because of the Caroline hut and the way the guide Jason helped and guided us." L. Thijssen, The Netherlands.
"Your place up in the mountains is unbelieveable! The trip was epic, and allowed for the needed time away from responsibility to enjoy the majestic peaks, peacefulness, tranquility, and to be able to soak up the very special feeling up there that cannot be described properly with words. Thank you for allowing me the space and opportunity to re-find my path in life, glimpse a bit of clarity, re-find bits of myself that were on the verge of being lost, and re-invigorating and motivating me to again want to fully live and live fully, and effect good change in this world of ours. You have a very special place up there, and wonderful, true human beings that help you run/guide your trips. I can't thank you enough. I will remember this trip and your mountains forever." A. Brewer, USA, Jan. 2006.
"Best instruction on use of crampons I have ever had. Guides were excellent - a good team and lots of fun. Trip finished far too quickly!" S. Hornibrook, Scotland, Nov. 2005
"The Ball Pass Crossing was one of the highlights of my trip to NZ. Thanks to our fantastic guide!" M. Kosterman, Netherlands, Jan 2006.
"Fantastic trip, start to finish; well planned, well executed. Learned a lot about tramping in challenging conditions, without ever feeling I was out of my depth." K. Schoff, USA, Nov 2005.
"I had an incredible time, was taken as close (sic) to heaven than I have ever been before. The guide showed incredible professionalism." S. Carrington, Christchurch, April 2005.
"One of the best outdoor excursions I've ever been on. Better than sex! (well, almost)." F.Blakiston, journalist. March 2000.
"I found the whole experience very satisfying and thrilling. I know that the weather wasn’t too kind to us, however, weather happens and that is beyond the control of everyone. I greatly respected the expertise of your guides and fully accepted their decisions. I will certainly be back for more adventures. Your guides also encouraged a wonderful team spirit within the group." D. Stuckey, Australia, January 2010.
"The course in general was brilliant fun and Dave was an awesome guide. Thanks a million." D. Long, Australia, January 2010.
"My needs were atypical - this an introductory course whereas I with considerable experience at moderate alpine climbing, but that all 33-38 years ago, and seeking a refresher course. It turned out I was well matched with the young Australian couple on the course who had high fitness and aptitude but without the basic alpine moving experience. Mike handled my quirks of partial independence, excessive photography, tendency to leave items behind, and not-always rigorous safety approaches with tact. He balanced intensity and long days with variation in sessions and breaks to keep focus and allow absorption of the experience and knowledge.
Caroline Hut and vicinity provides a wonderful environment for the course. The early season conditions were varied and weather ideal for 3.5 days and poor for a half day, but this was anticipated by accurate forecast and the coursework very neatly scheduled to fit.
Overall the course was exactly what I needed - an intensive update on modern gear and climbing practice in simple alpine climbing, and total immersion in that environment over just long enough to take it in, with opportunities to discuss with an understanding expert." C. Ward, New Zealand, December 2009.
" Things you do exceptionally well: Tailoring trips to weather conditions - having flexibility. Making people feel welcome. Guide's expertise and professionalism. Good camaraderie. Good atmosphere at the hut." D. Carlton, Australia, January 2009,
"I formed a decidedly positive impression of Alpine Recreation. You have good people, you are well-organised, trustworthy and professional. It is clear to me that you have fine-tuned your operation over the years so that you know exactly what you are doing. I would have to think really hard and focus on some very minor details in order to find fault with Alpine Recreation. The IMC and especially the climb of Mt Elie de Beaumont, went way beyond anything I had done hitherto. All I had done in the past was walk up glaciated mountains, with the occasional rock scramble, eg on Pollux. So the course extended me and opened my eyes to what is involved in technical ascents. I am grateful for this and I think I have learnt a lot. Overall, the course exceeded my expectations. I felt at all times that the guide knew what he was doing and this gave me the confidence to extend my limits. The food was better than I expected and the blue vein pasta was definitely the highlight of my culinary experiences in NZ." T. Boniecki, Australia, November 2008.
" We had just amazingly good time and I felt that I was getting way more than my moneys' worth! All the guides around the hut showed real dedication and very genuine intererest in clients' well-being and and comfort. They were also genuine, fun people to be around. The surroundings, the hut and the food (the quality and the quantity) were really a positive surprise. I would definitely recommend you to anybody who is interested in mountaineering and spending some quality time up in the mountains. I also liked the fact that you can offer various sorts of mountaineering equipment for free to your clients, that is something that also sets you apart from other businesses. Sometimes the lack of proper gear can be really a big obstacle for tourist who travels for a longer period of time and can't haul specific type of gear around the world. Last, I would like you to forward my thanks to Wolfgang "The Wolfman", who really put all his experience and enthusiasm to my use. An awesome guide and teacher, that guy. Thank you very much!" M. Koukka, Finland, March 2008
"I would like to thank your team for a truely wonderful experience up at
Caroline Hut/Ball Pass over the last few days. I was really not fully aware of the challenges and experiences I would go through and so the resulting feeling of satisfaction and achievement was very high for me. The guide, Wolfgang, was so professional in taking us on this trip. He was very safety conscious all the time and his eye never let an incorrect knot etc past. His pace of training and of climbing was just right. He also cooked fantastic meals without bother! Even though the weather was very bad on Saturday he used this time to teach us knots and techniques for Sunday which was fantastic - abseiling, be-laying, glacier work, glissade...Wolfgang also seemed to understand about Maori issues relating to the hut and the mountain. I was impressed just listening to him. Also the design and strength of the Caroline Hut is a credit to you. It was so comfortable and well stocked. On Friday night the wind was so strong it shook the hut quite a bit (understatement). I would not have been able to do such a course without the hut and truely value this large investment by you. Thank-you again. I am keen to do another course (maybe the ski touring one). " G. Chisholm, Christchurch, Feb. 2008
"You created a learning environment, which challenged the clients. Precautions were taken to maximise safety. The attitude of the guide was excellent. He was laid back enough to be comfortable, however, when it came to professionalism and safety, he was very serious. I chose your company because of value for money and the fact that the Caroline Hut was privately owned and operated. " D. Robinson, Australia, Nov. 2007
"Whatever the standard you have for everyone involved in Alpine Recreation is above and beyond. Your guide was fantastic and the way you provide the equipment is wonderful because it means that people can explore the experience without having to be thoroughly committed - although the trip inspires commitment quite surely! " N. Soucek, Australia, IMC Nov. 2007
"The professional and competent approach taken by you both mirrored the apporoach taken within this organisation to training and other activities. The tremendous weather we had for most of the time provided us with spectacular views in an environment that is stunning but at the same time full of potential hazards and traps for inexperienced mountineeers. The graduated approach taken to guiding us through the various skills, and catering for the varied capabilities of the group were particularly appreciated. " G. Day, Lieutenant Colonel, Commanding Officer, 4th Otago South Battalion Group, New Zealand Army, May 2007
"The guide really tried to feel the level of the group and in my case I couldn't have got a better start to my mountaineering career. The view was stunning and the climbing sorties were great. I could not have had a better five days in Mount Cook." R. Eriksson, Sweden. Jan. 2007
"Main benefit was the ability to base the course from the private hut right on the doorstep of the alpine environment. Good practical introduction to mountaineering/alpine trekking with the guides happy to share information and answer questions." L. Amies, Australia. Jan 2007
"Could not improve on trip. Excellent guide. Fantastic food. Great climb as you learn focus for those with already some experience. Excellent use of fixed line ensuring safety. Will definitely seek to do intermediate course in the future. Top free poster as well!" B. Goss, Australia, Mar 2006.
"I found one of the great pluses with your course was being able to arrive in NZ with basic warm clothes and have the specific technical gear provided, that's a huge bonus when travelling from overseas; particularly when the outlay for mountaineering gear is high and people like myself did the course to 'try before we buy'. Personally I was very impressed with the way that Ewan tailored the course around our needs and I thought it was professionally run." S. Parker, Australia.
"It was a really awesome trip, 5 of my best days of the last 13 months travelling...great memories!" S. Grout, UK. Feb 2006.
"I feel confident on glacial snow, using crampons and ice-axe. I understand ice/snow anchors, crevasse spotting and avalanche dangers better. I am inspired to continue snow/ice training. Gary was always extremely enthusiastic and motivating, with a sincerely caring and professional approach to his work with us. He was unfailingly patient, kind and good humoured - an excellent instructor/guide/sportsman." K. Baye, China, Feb. 2006.
"This was the first step in what I know will be a long recreation that I love and will do for the rest of my life. I've always looked at snowy peaks while tramping and always thought they looked too hard. Now I have an understanding of alpine climbing and I'm looking forward to many more trips to alpine ranges to practise what I have learnt and to gain experience. Ewan was an excellent guide, who encouraged and challenged us. I met some fantastic people. I will remember this trip with the fondest of memories forever. I'm coming back for the Intermediate Course!." A. Souter, Australia, Jan. 2006.
"Gary was an outstanding teacher, respectful, competent, calm, professional, consistent, attentive, and his ability to fit in quality teaching with the weather etc. was excellent, as well as his ability to encourage, to stand back and not be condescending; to be aware of the needs and abilities of the team. Really well done. It was great being able to use Alpine Recreation gear, and not have to buy expensive equipment for the trip." H. Cameron, Australia. December 2004.
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