Handing over the reins

Dear Friends and Adventurers,

We hope this message finds you well and enjoying the beautiful moments that life brings. As many of you know, we have been relishing our retirement while searching for the perfect successors to carry on the Driftwood legacy. We are thrilled to introduce you to the new owners of Driftwood Eco Tours: Julian Tovey and Maree Carson!

Maree and Julian are passionate about travel and are dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences for all who join them on their tours. With their diverse backgrounds and adventurous spirits, they are excited to welcome you on a Driftwood Eco Tour.

Julian and Maree on a recent visit to Mount White Station

Meet Maree: Growing up on a farm in Whiteman’s Valley, Maree's childhood was filled with adventures. Her father ran a fishing charter business in the Marlborough Sounds where she was introduced her to the joys of the ocean, where she spent countless weekends catching blue cod and swimming with dolphins. Maree has a real love for travel and has made a career out of it, with 18 years of experience in the travel industry, Maree has a talent for meticulously planning trips that customers rave about! As someone who is visually impaired, she brings a unique perspective that ensures an inclusive environment for all. She does not let her visual impairment stop her, and enjoys tramping, running and together with Julian, she has travelled the length of New Zealand on their tandem mountain bike, exploring the backcountry and taking the bike to places that tandem bike places that you wouldn’t expect to see it!

Meet Julian: Growing up in Nelson, Julian spent his childhood on his mountain bike exploring the backcountry. His love for adventure led him to spend 16 years in South Westland, where he took on a vast array of roles from a Glacier Guide, shuttle driver to a Community Relations role with the Department of Conservation (DOC). He spent his spare, travelling, as a search and rescue volunteer and learning to fly a helicopter. Julian also spent a few seasons working in the Yukon as a gold buyer, melting and shipping gold. In more recent times he’s been the public safety ranger for DOC at Tongariro National Park. His most recent role saw him coordinating search and rescue operations throughout New Zealand and the South Pacific at the Rescue Coordination Centre – you will definitely be in safe hands on their tour!

Over the next few months, Maree and Julian will be working diligently behind the scenes to revitalise Driftwood Eco Tours for the 2025/2026 season. We encourage you to keep an eye on our website and Facebook page for exciting updates and new adventures on the horizon.

Thank you for being a part of our Driftwood family. While we will miss seeing you, we are pleased to leave you in such capable hands. Who knows, we might see you on tour as clients!

Enjoy your adventures and thank you once again!

Will and Rose Parsons