Interpretation New Zealand

Naumai

Recently had the opportunity to raft down a well known river.

The website offered the promise of a spectacular float trip with informative stories by well trained guides.

The guides were well trained and apart from one wrong decision about choosing the correct path managed the physical process well. The scenery aspect was perhaps a bit over-hyped but it was the lack of knowledge and storytelling that let this experience down.

Our guide couldn’t answer some simple questions about the experience/environment.

While I’m not suggesting all guides need to be “local”  (or at least from that country) it does add authenticity to the experience. The guide service should also ensure they can identify key features and related stories, rather than simply “fudging” a story.

If local guides aren’t available then more time and effort needs to be put into training and delivery methods.

Ka kite ano

Malcolm