AuthenticAs Paradise – Professional Photography & Exclusive Guided 4WD Tour

Experience the Beauty of Queenstown with AuthenticAs’s Private 4WD & Photography Tour

If you’re heading to Queenstown and want to combine spectacular scenery with professional photography, the AuthenticAs Paradise Tour might just be your perfect match. Priced at approximately $1,374 for a group of up to five people, this six-hour adventure takes you through some of the most iconic and lesser-known sights around Lake Wakatipu using a luxury Land Rover. Your guides, Simon and Emma, are passionate locals with an eye for photography and storytelling, ensuring you get the best possible shots and insights.

What makes this experience standout? First, the personalized nature of the tour means you won’t be sharing it with strangers—just your party and your guides. Second, the professional photography included allows you to relax and simply enjoy your surroundings, knowing that the guides are capturing those special moments for you. We love how the tour focuses on authentic experiences—from candid lake shots to capturing the dramatic scenery at Paradise.

A potential consideration is the cost, which is on the higher end for a half-day tour. However, considering the personalized service, exclusive locations, and professional photos, many travelers find it offers value for money. This tour is especially suited for those who appreciate scenic views combined with quality photography, and who want a relaxed, private experience in some of New Zealand’s most beautiful landscapes.

If you’re someone who loves taking in breathtaking views, capturing memorable photographs, and prefers a tailored experience without the crowds, this tour was made for you. It’s particularly ideal for photographers, couples, or small groups looking for a unique way to explore Queenstown’s highlights at their own pace.

Key Points

• Private, intimate experience with only your group and guides
• Professional photography included, capturing your trip’s best moments
• Customizable stops to avoid crowds and discover hidden gems
• Luxury Land Rovers with full leather interiors for comfort and style
• Expert guides with deep local knowledge and passion for photography
• Flexible itinerary with stops at iconic and lesser-known locations

Exploring the Details of the AuthenticAs Paradise Tour

This tour offers a blend of stunning scenery, expert guidance, and high-quality photography that creates a memorable day in Queenstown and its surrounds. Spanning roughly six hours, the journey is designed to be relaxed, allowing ample time at each stop for pictures and some quiet appreciation of the landscape.

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Stop 1: One Mile Power House
Just after leaving Queenstown’s CBD, your guides might stop here to share stories about the lake and mountains. It’s a quick but scenic start, where your guides will snap some portraits in front of the iconic Remarkables and Cecil Peak. Although admission is not included, the views here are a perfect introduction. Expect a 15-minute stop that offers a chance to get some early shots with your guides’ help.

Stop 2: Twelve Mile Delta to Bob’s Cove
This is a favorite for many travelers. Bob’s Cove, a horseshoe bay on Lake Wakatipu, is accessible via a short walk through native bush. It’s managed by DOC, which means your guides, as concession holders, can take you onto private paths for a more intimate experience. Here, you get about 40 minutes to soak in the scenery, snap photos, or just enjoy the tranquility. The access is free, and the natural beauty is striking.

Stop 3: Bennet Bluff on Glenorchy-Queenstown Road
Known as one of the most famous lookouts, Bennet Bluff offers panoramic views across the lake and mountains. Whether the weather is clear or cloudy, the scenery is stunning. Your guides will likely stop here for about 10 minutes, perfect for capturing wide shots of the lake and mountains.

Stop 4: Less Crowded Lake Stops
To beat the crowds, your guides may choose to stop at either Meiklejohns Bay or 25 Mile Stream. Both spots provide peaceful, less-visited lakeside views—a nice break from the usual busy photo spots. Expect about 20 minutes here to enjoy the serenity and take some photos.

Stop 5: Glenorchy Wharf & Viewpoint
Glenorchy is a charming township and a must-see for many travelers. Here, you’ll have about 30 minutes to enjoy a bite to eat and explore the iconic wharf. This spot is popular for its classic New Zealand vibe and is a favorite for those Instagram shots, with the mountains framing the harbor perfectly.

Stop 6: Paradise
The name says it all. This stop features walking through beech forests and opportunities for horses and nature photography. The guides’ local knowledge really shines here, as they help you find the best angles and moments.

Stop 7: Chinaman’s Bluff
For the adventure lovers, this stop involves a 4WD off-road experience through streams and rugged terrain. It’s a fun, slightly wild conclusion to your day, lasting about 30 minutes. Expect some bumpy moments but incredible photo opportunities and a real taste of off-the-beaten-path New Zealand.

The Transport and Atmosphere

Traveling in a full leather Land Rover feels like a treat, especially compared to larger, more crowded tours. The vehicle’s comfort and style add a premium touch to the experience. Plus, the private nature of the tour means you can relax, chat, and customize your stops without feeling rushed.

The Guides and Their Knowledge

From reviews, it’s clear that Simon and Emma bring a lot of local insight and genuine enthusiasm. Their expertise isn’t just about the scenery—they’re also passionate about photography and storytelling, ensuring you get the most flattering shots and the best tips for capturing the moment. Several reviewers mention how their guides went above and beyond to find unique spots, making each trip feel personalized.

The Photography Aspect

The tour’s highlight for many is the professional photography service. The guides photograph your group in various settings—posing, candid, wide-angle shots—so you can focus on enjoying the scenery. The resulting images are often described as “treasured memories,” making this a great option for couples, families, or friends wanting to leave with high-quality photos.

The Cost and Value

While $1,374 might seem steep, it’s important to consider what’s included—private, guided experience, luxury transport, custom stops, and professional photography. The personalized nature and access to private or less crowded spots add value that larger, group tours can’t match. For those who love photography or want a relaxed, tailored experience in Queenstown, many find this cost justified.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who prioritize quality over quantity, valuing private experiences and professional photos. It’s perfect for small groups or couples looking for intimacy, or photographers eager to capture Queenstown’s stunning landscapes without the hustle. If you’re after a flexible, scenic, and photography-focused day with knowledgeable guides, this trip will tick those boxes.

The Sum Up

The AuthenticAs Paradise Tour offers a standout way to experience Queenstown’s landscapes with a personal touch. The blend of expert guides, exclusive stops, and top-tier photography makes it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a chance to create lasting memories in a relaxed, comfortable setting.

For those who enjoy beautiful scenery paired with quality photography and prefer avoiding crowded tourist spots, this tour delivers authentic experiences backed by local knowledge and genuine enthusiasm. It’s a bit of a splurge but one that many find very worthwhile when considering the personalized service and high-quality photographs you’ll take home.

If you’re traveling with a small group, love scenic drives, and want high-resolution images of your time in New Zealand, this tour is a fantastic choice. Just remember to book well in advance, as it’s popular—especially among those who want a truly private and memorable Queenstown adventure.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or service animals?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, making it flexible for families and those with special needs.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs approximately 6 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your private group, guided experience in a luxury Land Rover, and professional photographs. Admission tickets to specific spots like Bob’s Cove are free; some stops may have entrance fees, but most are free.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
The tour is designed to be flexible with stops tailored to avoid crowds or focus on your interests, as indicated by guides’ choices on the day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, camera or smartphone, and perhaps a snack or water. The guides will handle the photography and provide some guidance.

What if the weather is poor?
The experience requires good weather, but if canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 75 days in advance, so it’s wise to reserve early to secure your preferred date.

This private, photography-centered tour in Queenstown combines scenic beauty, expert guidance, and the chance to leave with professional-quality images—an ideal way to remember your New Zealand adventure.