Furhana, is our "hands-on" Owner/Operator, and a key guide for the business. Furhana is passionate about Stewart Island, making it her home base. With a B.Sc. Honours Geography degree, a varied background and first-hand experience of other countries and cultures she has evolved a unique business providing a highly professional and personal service.
Furhana's parents come from northwest India and the Seychelles, she was born in Kenya, educated in England and has travelled and lived in a variety of countries.
Furhana has been visiting Stewart Island since 1994, spending the majority of her time hiking and exploring the Island. In 1999, she permanently settled in Stewart Island and guided for the Department of Conservation for a season before setting up Ruggedy Range™ Wilderness Experience in 2000.
She has travelled and worked in a variety of countries. Hiking throughout New Zealand, since 1994, before settling in Stewart Island has given her a real appreciation of what the country has to offer. Now living amidst native forest, enjoying wildlife at her doorstep, including kaka (parrot), kakariki (parakeet) with the odd kiwi occasionally visiting - she hasn't looked back!
Furhana has personally guided several thousand visitors from over 40 different countries since 1999 and has assisted with wildlife filming for television in the UK, France, Australia and Japan. Furhana is a member of the New Zealand Ornithological Society.