About Us
Rachel Ryan
Tour Leader
Having spent the first half of my life in beautiful rural Ireland I now live in the coastal and native forest paradise of Delaware Bay, about 25 minutes north of the city of Nelson with husband, Grant, and our almost grown up family.
New Zealand is a wonderful place to live and I still have to pinch myself when I wander down to the garden and pick a fresh ripe orange from the tree, sit down in the sun and enjoy its juicy contents! Fresh blue cod on the dinner table from Grant's net is another of this life's pleasures.
I believe that walking is just the best possible way to experience and absorb New Zealand's special character - its extraordinarily beautiful landscape and unique natural heritage.
Living within easy reach of the Marlborough Sounds, the Abel Tasman National Park, Kahurangi National Park and Golden Bay provides a lifetime of opportunity for exploring a diverse range of stunning landscapes from the golden sands of the Abel Tasman to the secluded bush lined coves of the Marlborough Sounds.
I love the vibrant Nelson community: it is local and colourful, oozing with character, the arts, boutique wineries and a host of artisan food producers.
I look forward to sharing the Nelson region's landscapes, local character and cuisine with you.
Grant Williams
Driver
Grant hails from the foothills of Mount Taranaki in the North Island. He moved to Nelson 22 years ago and is now living where his Maori ancestors settled in the early 1800's, here in Delaware Bay.
Grant is the quintessential Kiwi do-it-yourself modern day man (bloke!). You name it - he can do it! Our beautiful wattle and daub adobe home is testament to his true Kiwi ingenuity.
When he is not busy with environmental, Maori and community issues he provides wild pork, rabbit, fish and the odd goat for the family table. He somehow finds time to be a wonderful dad (and husband!).
Grant is in his element in the outdoor environment. He has been an instigator of many a memorable walking/tramping and kayaking expedition and has completed an Outward Bound intensive course. He is an intrepid triathlete and is preparing to take part in his sixth South Island Coast to Coast event.
I feel very fortunate in having Grant as an integral member of Walk Nelson NZ.