Q&A Stewart Barclay

Director and owner of Adrift Tongariro

What’s one place you would take every visitor to New Zealand, and why?

Everywhere or anywhere you can be alone in the wild – the likes of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a must-do for every visitor. During the winter, without the summer crowds, the landscape and terrain transforms into an incredible wonderland that you can experience on a guided tour – we have all the gear and equipment you need alongside a professional guide to make it an unforgettable experience.

What’s one New Zealand spot that is at the top of your bucket list?

I’m hoping to be able to take my daughters and granddaughters for a trip on the Whanganui River next summer – it’s stunning, remote and surrounded by native forest. Jet-boat up to Bridge to Nowhere, canoe down to a campsite, have a great Kiwi barbecue by the riverside and enjoy a night under the stars.

What’s your secret backyard favourite spot?

My favourite spot in Tongariro National Park is behind upper Tama Lakes and Mt Nga¯ uruhoe – there’s a beautiful valley that’s bursting with wildflowers during the warmer months.

What’s your favourite place for a pie and a coffee?

The Spiral Restaurant at the Park Hotel in National Park Village is where I go for coffee, and I’m a coffee person. It has to be strong, not too milky and generally followed by another. For a graze, I always get Sammy’s recommendation behind the bar – no pies but excellent fish ’n’ chips, burgers, curries and lamb shanks.