As we step into the summer season, there’s no better time to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Tai Poutini National Park with Glacier Valley Eco Tours. We have a great 'Kiwi' team to guide you on our informative nature walks in Tai Poutini National Park this summer season!
Meet Cliff - Our Head Guide
Born amidst the natural playground of Taranaki, New Zealand, Cliff's early years were shaped by the untamed beauty of rivers, lakes and the ocean. His first job in a timber mill workshop, however, felt confining, sparking a thirst for adventure that led him to the South Island—a place he'd never been. This spontaneous decision marked the beginning of seven years filled with busking, hitchhiking and WOOFING a period of discovery and connection with the land. Cliff's wanderlust eventually steered him towards becoming a kayak guide in Milford Sound, but it was in Franz Josef Glacier where he truly found his calling as a Glacier Guide. It was also during an Outdoor Recreation course in Motueka that he met his future wife, Tash, setting the stage for their life together. Their shared love for adventure inspired them to settle in the coastal bushland of Ōkārito, where Cliff continued to guide on Franz Josef Glacier.
When walking access to the glacier ceased in 2013, Cliff sought a new path that didn't involve daily helicopter rides. His passion for the great outdoors and a shared vision led him to acquire Glacier Valley Eco Tours from his friend Mike in 2016, turning a new leaf in his adventurous life.
A true Coaster, Cliff embodies resilience, humour and an innate ability to tell captivating stories. His deep affection for the West Coast's rugged landscape, history and community shines through his work with Glacier Valley Eco Tours. Off-duty, Cliff enjoys white baiting, wood carving, kayaking, and contributing to local conservation efforts. An accomplished Maori wood carver, his creations adorn our Tui Gallery. Cliff's companionship with his pet goat Nicole and his dogs on beach walks encapsulates his unique spirit. A day spent with Cliff is not just a tour; it's an unforgettable encounter with nature and storytelling.
Meet Tyla – A Passion for New Zealand Wildlife
My names Tyla. I’m from Taranaki and grew up in a small rural town called Toko under Mt Taranaki. My family & I are big into the outdoors - horse trekking, hunting & fishing. Being outdoors has been my life, and always had a great appreciation for the mountains, forests & sea.
After living overseas for 9 years, it was time to come home and get back to my roots, so I studied and gained a Certificate in Pest Operations (level 3) at the Western Institute of Technology in Taranaki, learning conservation and pest control, running trap lines out in the back country, explored the back areas of New Zealand, tracking and relocated kiwi, learnt in depth about history in regards to plants, animals, insects, significant people and townships.
After I finished at Polytechnic, I packed up my truck and made my way down to Franz Josef to use my skills and learn about the environment here, the people, culture and history of the area. It’s been an amazing journey so far and love sharing the knowledge I’ve learnt with the people who come on the tours.
My hobbies are climbing mountains, fishing and a spot of hunting with a Certificate in Pest Operations (level 3) at the Western Institute of Technology in Taranaki NZ.
Meet Petra – Zoology and Global Perspectives
Petra is a kiwi girl who grew up in Queenstown and has just arrived back from working as a Activities Co-ordinator for Underwater Africa in Mozambique. This involved diving, snorkeling & kayaking expeditions, organising & joining volunteers on research projects with humpback whales, coral garden expeditions, mangrove monitoring projects, educational projects, as well as giving research & conservation seminars.
Her love for the outdoors and the animals living in it led her to study Zoology at University. Since university she has been working in conservation in New Zealand and exploring the rest of the world through some travel. Petra has worked for NZ Forest & Bird in the Caitlins, monitoring in particular Mātātā /fernbirds, as well as blue penguins, bitterns, long-tailed bats, forest geckos & south island robin (all that we have here in Ōkārito!), so she has a good knowledge of all the birds found in New Zealand!
Meet Jake – Glacier Valley Eco Tours - Adventure Meets Expertise
Jake is a Kiwi boy who has a Diploma in Outdoor Instruction & Guiding at local Tai Poutini Polytechnic in Greymouth. He has been a raft guide, sea kayak guide, done predator control & conservation work as well as been an Outward Bound instructor.
In his spare time he enjoys mountain biking, kayaking, surfing, playing guitar, tramping/hiking or working on a creative project.
Our incredible guides—Tyla, Petra, and Jake—bring a wealth of knowledge, passion, and hands-on experience to every nature walk. Tyla’s deep connection to New Zealand’s wild spaces, honed through conservation work and pest control studies, adds a unique perspective to her tours. Petra’s background in zoology and global conservation efforts shines through as she shares fascinating insights about native birds and ecosystems. Meanwhile, Jake’s expertise in outdoor guiding, combined with his adventurous spirit, ensures every walk is informative and engaging. Together, this talented team offers more than just a tour—they provide an unforgettable opportunity to connect with the park’s breathtaking beauty and rich natural history. Join us this summer to explore, learn, and create lasting memories in one of New Zealand’s most remarkable places!
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