Pacific Trip Leader

Mary Rayner

Mary was born and raised in California. As a whitewater river guide, she was part of the USA’s women’s team to compete in an international peace exchange in Russia in 1989 where she met her husband, Gordon, from New Zealand. Mary is an early childhood teacher and continues to love all sorts of adventure sports, especially kayaking and mountain bike riding. Both she and her husband, Gordon, have a deep love of New Zealand's natural history and are experienced hikers. She recently took the opportunity to travel the length of New Zealand to visit all sorts of special places, and continues to indulge in a few of her favorite domestic activities including knitting, crocheting, and cooking delicious meals.

Our Team

Upcoming Trips with Mary

New Zealand: Ultimate South Island

Mar 8 - 22, 2026

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Client Testimonials

"Loved our time with Mary...so special. Stories, hiking, all the extra effort on the little things. And the food she prepared was awesome....so good!"

Eppy G.

Moraga, CA

"Mary was one of the best trip leaders ever. Her warmth, knowledge, maturity, kindness, all were incredible. She was patient and understanding, and always helped those who took a bit longer or needed more time. She had such knowledge of all the plant life and animals and was able to provide such great commentary. "

Linda S.

West Orange, NJ

"Mary is the queen of logistics, organization, and efficiency, all while maintaining her amazingly nice and friendly disposition. She is also an excellent driver!"

Lynne R.

New York, NY

"Mary is the queen of logistics, organization, and efficiency, all while maintaining her amazingly nice and friendly disposition."

Lynne R.

New York, NY

"A wonderful guide and naturalist — expert on ferns, flora, and fauna. Fabulous cook — all the meals she prepared, along with the super dinner on Stewart Island, were excellent. She is a great walking guide and I was always comfortable and felt very safe when with her. A++"

Michael N.

Greensboro, NC

"Mary is a first-rate guide, one of the best we've had. Client-focused, well-organized, knowledgeable, enthusiastic, passionate about New Zealand, and an absolute pleasure to travel with. Absolutely exceptional in the truest sense of the word. Cannot imagine a New Zealand experience without her."

Steve A.

Pleasanton, CA

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Our Area Specialists know every detail about our adventures around the world. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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