One of the reasons we started AuthenticAs was to provide something different to the usual tourism offerings. This is something that’s really easy for us to say, but let’s face it, reviews are much better from our clients rather than us.
We’re incredibly proud that our Trip Adviser reviews are all 5 stars. Have a scroll through the words and images below, some highlights of reviews from Trip Advisor and also what our clients have emailed us after their tour.
It will be our absolute pleasure to show you around the place we call home, day or night. Remember if there you have any questions, ideas abouut a bespoke tour or celebration, please emailus@authenticAs.org and we’ll start planning your very own AuthenticAs Adventure.
Hollie
Had the absolute pleasure of joining Simon on a recent stargazing tour, and it was an experience that will forever be etched in my memory. From the moment we stepped into the pitch-black countryside, I was captivated by Simon's infectious enthusiasm and deep knowledge of the night sky.
Simon's ability to explain complex astronomical concepts in a way that was both informative and entertaining was truly impressive. His passion for Maori astronomy was evident in every word he spoke, and it was contagious.
I cannot recommend Authentic As Starry Night Adventure tour enough. It's an experience that you won't want to miss. Thank you, Simon, for an unforgettable evening under the stars!
5 Star Google Review
GQ shoot for Syd
Simon's knowledge of the area , history and culture was amazing and interesting and he knew great spots for photos we were able to visit plenty.
Simon was in contact regularly leading up during to weather conditions as he want to ensure the experience was not hampered by conditions.
The photos and conversations were great.
5 Star - Trip Advisor
The Willis’
What an experience!
Our family opted for the stargazing photo tour with "a little extra.” Simon delivered an experience we will remember for a lifetime.
Simon's attention to detail and deep knowledge of astronomy and photography made the experience memorable.
If you decide to go stargazing with Simon, make sure you opt for “A Little Extra!” The little extra optional upgrade made a world of difference in our experience.
To say we are happy with our choice to utilize AuthenticAs would be an understatement.
Thanks AuthenticAs!!!
Jem Jem’s Starry Night Adventure
Who would have thought that a Solo Star gazing tour would have a huge impact in my life. 😌
2 1/2 years ago I decided to do a solo trip to the South Island as part of my Healing Journey and Grief Therapy. I was blessed to meet a couple who made me inspired, amazed and humbled. I met Simon and Emma . ♥️
Simon didn’t just talk about the stars,the milky way ,the galaxy. He made me understand and love it so much that i look at the stars and night sky differently now. It’s his knowledge, passion ,heart ,kindness and sincerity that made it an “experience” instead of merely a tour. I still remember the feeling of seeing The Milky Way for the first time after my eyes have adjusted to the darkness in 12 Mile Delta. I still remember how i was amazed by the respect and love Simon showed when he asked permission in front of that lake and it felt like nature answered. I treasured Every moment of that trip .
“Let’s find Hope in Sparkles” - when Emma mentioned this during our conversation in instagram, i knew in my heart that i’ll be meeting someone who is heaven sent to be part of my Healing Journey.
I wanted to do a Normal Review but it wouldn’t feel sincere if i don’t share the main reason why i did the Stargazing trip in the first place.
If you love the stars, the galaxy, the milky way ,nature or just wanna learn more and experience its magic then you have the best couple to do the trip with.
If you were like me who just wanted to feel a loved ones hug by looking at the stars and the night sky .Believing they are up there looking after us … give this trip a go. 😌
I hope you will find Hope in Sparkles, just like i did. ✨
Thank you Simon and Emma.
Gratitude is an Understatement. ✨♥️
Much Love always,
Jemjem
Sarah & Alexey
Hey Simon!
Just wanted to say thank you again for showing and teaching us about the night sky last night! It was truly an amazing experience to learn about the Māori culture and the beliefs they hold. You did a phenomenal job in explaining very historical, philosophical, and complex topics to us. We enjoyed every second of the trip, and we truly cannot thank you enough!
I have my photos downloading now and so excited to take a look at them!
Thanks again!
Sarah
Tracey-Lee & Paul
Simon and Emma organised a wonderful day out to visit Lake Wanaka, Cardrona and Coronet Peak.
They are such a lovely couple and it was like we were out with friends.
They did so much to make sure we saw places we wanted to see and then more.
Scenery was breathtaking, beautiful memories made that day and all of it captured with stunning photography by the talented Simon and Emma.
They organised a lovely lunch for us, which we insisted they share with us ,on a beachfront on Lake Wanaka. Great conversation's.
What a wonderful way to spend our wedding anniversary.
Simon and Emma we will be forever grateful.
Thank you so much.
Dwayne, Maddie & Nick
An amazing surprise!
It exceeded expectations by miles, we were so impressed, even my dad and brother who weren’t so interested before we left were completely absorbed in the experience before we left. It was the highlight of our Queenstown trip. Simon really made it interesting blending culture and science. Can’t wait to do other experiences like this is the future.
Sara, Harsukh & Rocky
Best Star Gazing-Nightscape Portrait Photography Ever
One of best experiences we had during New Zealand Trip. Simon is very professional and passionate about what he does. We learned so much about how to navigate the southern dark sky, saw too many incredible stars, images, also Māori culture. The Milky Way is absolutely stunning, the nightscape portrait is unmatched, we will value this experience, the photos are amazing, unbelievable! Thank you so much for this extraordinary tour! Highly recommend!
Claire & Paul
AuthenticAS Starry Night Adventure - More than a little bit extra
This was a great tour, Simon made it such a memorable experience tailored to us, a couple wanting something a bit different. Simon really thought about our needs even to the fact that he brought a small chair up the mountain because I had recently broken my ankle and he made sure I was comfortable throughout the evening.
Simon is a true gentleman and has a passion for astronomy, photography and the Maori culture. He has his own telescope which he used to show us the stars and plants as he explained about them linking to the beliefs of the Maori people. It is such an interesting and unique experience whilst in New Zealand.
Simon also taught me about how to photograph the night sky using my own camera and spent time explaining exposure factors and allowing me to practice to produce my own photographs.
He then took some professional photos of us with the magical night sky as the backdrop, which we can download as a reminder of the fantastic evening.
Tomas
My trip to New Zealand has been a long time coming. When I was planning my activities I knew I was going to want some professional photos taken because this area is just so stunningly beautiful.
So I did some research and ended up on the Authentic As website. After seeing some of the beautiful photography I without hesitation booked two photography tours: the Queenstown tour and the Starry Nights Tour.
Boy oh boy. What an experience.
Firstly I’m glad I finally got to meet Simon & Emma after waiting so long to get here. Such lovely people. What I greatly appreciated about these tours it wasn’t just a photo shoot, but I really learned a lot about the history and Māori culture and beliefs as we were exploring these unbelievably beautiful locations. It was nice to have actual conversation which made me feel a bit more at ease in front of the camera. I’ve just fallen in love with this area, the nature and scenery are completely unreal. I felt so at peace while we were up in the mountains or standing in front of gorgeous lakes.
I also did the Starry Nights tour. Now unfortunately this is quite a weather dependant activity and whilst we were on the tour it got very cloudy. Although we did manage to take some great photos! And again I learned a lot which was great. I already promised I will book again when I do come back to New Zealand so we can have another go at it. No regrets at all.
I really did have the best time on these tours and I’m super happy with how the photos turned out. If you want gorgeous photos to show to friends and family after your New Zealand visit, I could not recommend booking a tour with Authentic As more highly. You’ll have a great time.
Many thanks to Simon and Emma.
Do yourselves a favour and check out their website. The beautiful images speak for themselves
Peter
Such an incredible experience. Simon showed me all my favourite stars and it was so beautiful to get my own photos of them. Learnt about the Maori stories about the stars were incredible. Got to see multiple shooting stars. Ws a very special moment for me. I felt totally comfortable around Simon and we were never short of topics to talk about. I HIGHLY recommend this to anyone. It's a beautiful way to appreciate the stars and beautiful new Zealand - plus you get a yummy hot chocolate!