Our Story

Kia ora, Bonjour – and thank you for stopping by!

 

If you’re the kind of traveller who’s curious, adventurous and looking for something a little different, you’re in the right place. Antipodes Travel is a Dunedin-based boutique travel company with a touch of French flair and a deep love for the South Island of New Zealand.

Founded in 2004 by Sandrine and Yoann Feillet, Antipodes Travel first became known for creating tailor-made holidays in New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands for French-speaking travellers. Over time, our multilingual team has grown, and our connection with Ōtepoti (Dunedin) and Te Waipounamu (South Island) has only strengthened.

Local tours

We share our love of the region through private local tours — from wildlife encounters on the Otago Peninsula to nature photography workshops and journeys through the Catlins. These tours are available in both English and French.

Our local expertise

Being based in Dunedin means we live and breathe the wildlife, landscapes and stories of this unique region. We know the quiet corners, the coastal viewpoints, the best times for wildlife activity, and the hidden gems that most visitors don’t find on their own.
Our tours blend local Kiwi expertise with a little French je ne sais quoi that makes the experience uniquely ours — personal, friendly and full of character.

 

Responsible Wildlife Encounters

As part of our commitment to nature and conservation, we hold concessions from the Department of Conservation and a permit that allows us to view marine mammals — including New Zealand sea lions — responsibly and safely.
This ensures that our wildlife encounters are conducted with care, respect and a deep understanding of the animals and their environment.

 

Our Journey Through Time

Our journey began with a deep love for Aotearoa, the Land of the Long White Cloud, when we made it our home in 2002. Yoann hails from Brittany, while Sandrine comes from the French Alps. Together, we bring extensive experience in tourism and a shared passion for the mesmerizing landscapes and vibrant culture of Aotearoa. We weren’t born in New Zealand, but it has become our heart and soul.

Like many tourism operators, our path has included both exciting milestones and unexpected challenges — especially during the Covid years. When international borders closed, our work shifted dramatically, and we found ourselves reconnecting deeply with our own region.

This pause pushed us to explore Dunedin and the lower South Island even more, to strengthen our relationships with local partners, and to realise how much we loved guiding visitors through the landscapes and wildlife right outside our door. What began as a temporary pivot quickly became a natural extension of who we are.

As borders reopened, we chose to carry this passion forward. Today, alongside crafting tailor-made itineraries for French-speaking travellers, we proudly offer private local tours shaped by those years of exploration, resilience and renewed appreciation for our beautiful corner of Aotearoa.

What Makes Us Unique?

We believe travel should be unhurried, personal and filled with genuine moments. Our private tours focus on discovery, photography, wildlife encounters and storytelling — always adapted to your interests, the weather and your pace.
Friendly, professional and passionate, we aim to create experiences that feel both relaxed and memorable.

 

Sustainability and Local Collaboration: Our Core Values

We are not perfect, and we know that traveling to New Zealand may not be entirely environmentally friendly – but we work hard to minimise our impact.

We collaborate with local businesses that share our values, ensuring that every aspect of your journey supports the local community and respects the environment. From eco-friendly accommodations to mindful travel practices, we aim to leave a positive footprint wherever we go. 

It’s not just about the destinations; it’s about the people and places that make them special. With Antipodes Travel you’ll not only explore Aotearoa; you’ll become a part of its story.

 

Why Choose Antipodes Travel?

  • Local Expertise: We’re proud to call Dunedin home and love sharing its hidden gems and stories.
  • Established Company: Since 2004, we’ve created personalised trips for French-speaking travellers across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific — and now offer premium local tours around Dunedin and the South Island.
  • Bilingual Experience: We speak both English and French.
  • Sustainability: We’re committed to preserving the natural beauty of New Zealand. Our tours are eco-conscious and support local communities.
  • Small Groups: A more authentic, personal experience.
  • Customisation: Looking for something unique? We can tailor-make a journey just for you. In Dunedin, or the wider South Island, or the North Island of New Zealand, or in Australia, New Caledonia, French Polynesia…  (Mars? Not yet!)

Click below if you want to see what we offer to our French speaking guests all around New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands.

Meet The Team

Sandrine

Sandrine

Yoann

Yoann

Scott

Scott

Maud

Maud

Jutta

Jutta

Get In Touch!

+64 (0)3 477 33 00

Capitol Building
67 Princes Street
PO Box 265
Dunedin 9016
New Zealand