TESTIMONIALS
I think the Art Experience with Kate was actually the hidden gem on our entire stay. We just can say enough about our day with her. What we thought might be a nice way to see some bespoke art, turned into a fabulous journey to hidden places in the local area we just simply couldn’t have found on our own. We were introduced to 5 wonderful artist in their private studios and felt so welcomed by each in a private setting that was very intimate and educational, not to mention we did find some lovely NZ art to take home as well. From a private home tucked way up on the hillside, to a working stone sculpture studio... to learning about some amazing techniques that as an amateur artist myself I was unaware of.Having the opportunity to drive through many different parts of Queenstown and the Basin area with Kate, who is so knowledgeable and friendly felt as if we were old friends. We stopped for a great lunch at Millbrook and then she drove us to many places for me to do some photography off the beaten path as well. It was day to remember and we are so thankful we ran into her! She is a gem to be shared! We do hope our paths will cross again soon, thanks for everything. Warmly - Debbie & Ed Brennan, Hong Kong
"Kate came to the rescue at the last minute on our anniversary to replace a thwarted Milford Sound trip. She made the day special from the start, with encyclopaedic knowledge of the area and a sixth sense about what we would enjoy, so much so that we arranged a second day together visiting artists' studios: a rare opportunity to connect with the art and its makers. Kate's positive, kind, generous spirit is magical. Somehow she covered a lot of ground without making it feel rushed, but rather leisurely and varied. She is the consummate guide and a multi-talented and very special person!" Phil & Nancy NYC
We had the good fortune of having Kate as our guide in Queenstown and the surrounding area. Having been raised there, Kate is a wealth of knowledge about the history, people, art and taking you off the beaten track to wonderful experiences. She quickly discovered our likes and curated a day filled with exploration, and boutique shops unique to the area. We met artists, and a local sculptor who spent time in his studio with us. Her warmth and vibrant personality are a joy and shine through in her work. We have travelled the world and have had many a guide, none finer than Kate. Best regards, - Richard and Sue USA
“We were fortunate enough to meet Kate serendipitously and find out, by sheer coincidence, that Kate is very immersed in the art scene in and around Queenstown. We immediately connected with Kate, and on the next morning she took us around for a quick visit with a couple of artists. Even though our time was short, we have managed to see a lot and appreciate the opportunities that Queenstown offers to any art lover. Kate was just wonderful: friendly, knowledgeable, courteous and very reliable. We whole heartedly endorse Kate and encourage any visitor who simply loves art to connect with her upon arrival in Queenstown”. Take care and hope we meet again. - Ariel Gratch
Kate Blomfield took my husband and I on a day tour in Queenstown to meet some of the many interesting artists who reside and work in the Queenstown area. We had told our travel Agent we were interested in exploring the Arts Scene in Queenstown as we are contemporary Art Collectors in Colorado. Kate put together a fantastic itinerary which included visits to an art gallery, a top international furniture designer, a fascinating sculptor who works in found stone and a Maori teacher and stone carver who shared some of the history of the Maori people and his interest in furthering the Maori language in the 21st Century.We had a lovely lunch at a public country club, where we dined Al Fresco. Kate was knowledgeable, enthusiastic and resourceful. We enjoyed our time with her immensely, and felt she gave us a much better understanding of the beautiful part of the world that she lives in. We hope to someday return to New Zealand to experience the gracious hospitality of Kate and her very talented friends! - Judy and Ken Robins, Denver Colorado
Kate’s tour of art and culture in the Queenstown area was wonderful! In addition to viewing the art we were able to have in depth conversations with world class artists (painter, sculptor, jeweller) about their backgrounds, creative approaches, and the technical logistics of making their art. Truly a unique experience. An excellent lunch and fun wine tasting at an award winning small family vineyard were also included. Kate chose scenic back roads and provided interesting commentary on the communities. A lovely way to spend a day!! - Joan USA
Our Southland Art Group spent a glorious bespoke day with Kate. What a pleasure it was to explore art studios, meet, listen and talk to some of the talented artists around the beautiful Wakatipu basin and of course absorb some gorgeous jewellery, artworks and sculpture collections. Kate is a fabulous host, who developed a perfect itinerary and ensured our day ran so smoothly. We were very well wined and dined with a delicious shared lunch in a superb outdoor setting. It truly was a day to remember. - Donna Parker Queenstown NZ