Meet Our Private Tour Guides in New Zealand
Great North Tours provides private tour guides in New Zealand, helping visitors discover the North Island through personalised journeys, local knowledge and comfortable private transport. Our guiding team is based in Hamilton and Auckland, bringing together two local perspectives and extensive knowledge of the regions they explore. Whether you're planning a private day trip, a multi-day adventure or a customised North Island itinerary, our guides offer a personal approach to discovering New Zealand.
Josh Mortensen | Hamilton Tour Guide
Founder and Lead Guide | Great North Tours | ProGuides New Zealand Member
Based in Hamilton, Waikato, Josh founded Great North Tours in 2023 to provide personalised private tours throughout New Zealand's North Island.
As a member of Pro Guides New Zealand, Josh combines his local knowledge of the Waikato and surrounding regions with a passion for sharing New Zealand's landscapes, attractions and culture with visitors. He has lived in both the North and South Islands
From Hobbiton and Waitomo to Rotorua and Lake Taupo, Josh enjoys introducing guests to the region's highlights as well as places beyond the usual tourist routes.
As the owner and lead guide of Great North Tours, Josh takes a personal approach to planning and guiding each journey, helping couples, families and private groups experience the North Island at their own pace.
Outside work, Josh enjoys playing darts, watching sport and spending time outdoors. He is particularly fond of dogs and beaches, and enjoys keeping fit and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Brett Shadbolt | Auckland Tour Guide
Great North Tours Guide | ProGuides New Zealand Member
Based in Torbay, Auckland, Brett works with Great North Tours as an independent contractor, guiding guests on private tours throughout Auckland and the wider North Island.
As a member of ProGuides New Zealand, Brett brings local knowledge of Auckland City, Waitakere Ranges, Kumeu Wine Region, Piha Beach, Muriwai Beach, Mt Eden, Matakana and Mangawhai, along with conducting tours throughout the North Island.
From exploring Auckland's city highlights to discovering coastal scenery and destinations beyond the city, Brett offers visitors a knowledgeable local perspective and a personalised guided experience. His cheerful nature and local anecdotes make him a guest favourite.
Away from touring, Brett supports the Auckland Warriors rugby league team and loves spending time with his dog.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our New Zealand Tour Guides
1. Who are the private tour guides at Great North Tours?
Great North Tours has two guides based in different parts of the North Island: one in Hamilton, Waikato, and one in Auckland. Both are members of ProGuides New Zealand and bring local knowledge and a personal approach to private touring.
2. Can I hire a private tour guide in New Zealand?
Yes. Great North Tours provides private driver-guides for individuals, couples, families and small groups. You travel in your own private Mercedes-Benz vehicle with a dedicated guide rather than joining a large scheduled coach tour.
3. Do you have a tour guide based in Auckland?
Yes. Our Auckland-based guide is a member of ProGuides New Zealand and has local knowledge of Auckland City, Piha Beach, Muriwai Beach, Matakana and Mangawhai.
4. Do you have a tour guide based in Hamilton?
Yes. Our Hamilton-based guide is the founder of Great North Tours and a member of ProGuides New Zealand. He regularly guides visitors around the Waikato and central North Island, including Hobbiton, Waitomo, Rotorua and Taupō.
5. What areas of New Zealand can your guides take me to?
Our guides cover destinations throughout the North Island, including Auckland, Waikato, the Coromandel, Waitomo, Rotorua, Lake Taupō and beyond. Routes can be customised around your interests, travel dates and available time.
6. What makes your private tour guides different from a regular tour?
You have a dedicated driver-guide, private transport and the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Rather than following a fixed group itinerary, your journey can be tailored to your interests, with local recommendations along the way.
7. Can I request a particular guide for my tour?
Yes. You can mention your preferred guide when making an enquiry. We'll consider your travel dates, itinerary and guide availability when arranging your tour.
8. Do your guides offer customised multi-day tours?
Yes. Great North Tours organises private multi-day journeys throughout the North Island. Your guide stays with you throughout the agreed itinerary, helping make the journey more personal and flexible.
9. How much does it cost to hire a private tour guide?
Our private touring rates are charged per vehicle, not per person. The Mercedes-Benz Vito costs NZ$900 per day and is recommended for 1–6 guests. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter costs NZ$1,200 per day and is recommended for 7–11 guests. Rates include a dedicated driver-guide and up to 10 hours of touring per day.
10. Do your guides provide transport as well as guiding?
Yes. Your guide also drives your private Mercedes-Benz touring vehicle. The Vito accommodates smaller groups, while the Sprinter is suitable for larger groups of up to 11 guests. An enclosed luggage trailer is available at no extra charge when required.
11. Can your guides recommend places to visit and things to do?
Yes. Your guide can share local knowledge, suggest places to visit and help coordinate activities and stops along the way. Your itinerary can include scenic locations, cultural attractions, food experiences, outdoor activities and lesser-known destinations.
12. How do I book a private tour with Great North Tours?
Send us your preferred dates, group size and the places you'd like to explore. You can also tell us if you have a preferred guide. We'll discuss your plans, check availability and help create a private itinerary. A 30% deposit secures your touring dates and allows itinerary planning to begin.