Some of the most memorable and intoxicating incentives walk the line between discovering something new and being engrossed in an unassailable mystery.
New Zealand achieves both effortlessly with a dash of what Kiwi’s call manaakitanga, the indigenous Maori concept of hospitality, generosity and kindness. For more on what awaits New Zealand groups, read on.
Marlborough Sounds
The country’s natural bounty provides incentive programs with a built-in sense of magic. One case in point is Marlborough Sounds at the northern tip of the South Island, whose winding waterways comprise one-fifth of New Zealand’s coastline. Groups who cruise through this stunning area can swim with dolphins in the wild, sip their way through the Marlborough wine region, and sample fresh salmon and mussels paired with world-class sauvignon blanc.
Caving
For an adrenaline-filled brush with the wild, groups can hop on jet boats and skim across pristine lakes, explore untouched canyons and riverways, geothermal wonders. The Waitomo Caves are alit with the cobalt sparkle of glowworms and are perfect for spelunking (caving) and black water rafting. Black Water Rafting Co.’s underground float trip through the incomparable Ruakuri Cave will have attendees crawling, swimming, climbing and floating through a glowworm-studded subterranean wonderland.
Canyoning
Canyoning down water-polished chutes and rocks, waterfalls, pools and streams (while safely harnessed in, of course) is a popular pre- and post-event experience in Auckland, Canterbury and Wanaka.
Zip Lining
And, for those in your group who have yet to experience the rush of zip lining, Waiheke Island, Queenstown and Rotura have them covered.
Culture Trip
Rotura has another secret weapon to woo attendees: Mitai Maori Village. The indigenous cultural place sets the stage for an authentic Maori experience complete with warriors in traditional attire who paddle a warrior canoe and a hangi meal, cooked geothermal-style. Groups will marvel at performances that reveal the art of weaponry and combat, as well as the grace and beauty of the poi dance and the secrets behind ta moko (tattoo art).
