Adventures crafted For the Bold
41 South was born from a simple belief - that true adventure should connect you deeply to self, place, people, and purpose.
We exist to craft journeys that go beyond travel. Adventures that ground you, challenge you, and fill your life with stories worth retelling.
Behind every experience here, there’s a person who has lived this lifestyle wholeheartedly.
Meet Nathan Stead
Founder & Lead Guide
Nathan has spent his life chasing New Zealand’s magical places, learning from the people who know them best. After studying Outdoor Education in the South Island under some of the country’s most respected adventure operators, he built his guiding career on North Island rivers like the Rangitīkei and the Kaituna, while developing a deep love for surfing and life by the ocean.
Every year, Nathan explores Aotearoa on his own missions - rafting, surfing, kayaking, hiking, exploring - strengthening relationships and local knowledge that anchor every 41 South trip.
He’s also guided internationally (Canada, Nepal, Morocco) and chased waves around the world (Indo, Mexico, Central America, USA, Fiji). But New Zealand is home and where he chooses to share his love for the outdoors where he knows it best.
Real experience. Local connection.
A guide who genuinely knows the way.
inspired by nature
Time in nature evolves people.
It builds connection.
It offers perspective.
It creates memories that stick for life.
We’ve felt and seen this.
That’s why 41 South’s adventures are designed to feel personal and real. Handcrafted with care, expertise, and deep respect for the places we go. No rinse-and-repeat itineraries. No surface-level tourism.
Just New Zealand, in its pure form.
Together, let’s create a journey where you experience it all.
Testimonials
“For anyone who is looking for a New Zealand rafting adventure with a guide who is dialed into the locals and culture, look no further than Nathan Stead. I was part of a small group last February led by Nathan that covered the North and South Islands rafting 8 rivers in 2 weeks. Nathan is a standout in terms of pivoting when the rivers are not running and coming up with alternate plans and keeping the energy going. Being able to travel through New Zealand with a local is truly special and Nathan brings his Kiwi hospitality, sense of humor and his deep love for the outdoors on each of his journeys.”
- Nancy D
“Nathan’s down to earth approach to life makes you feel you’re in the right hands. We couldn’t recommend him enough as our family felt safe, cared for and the kids loved the opportunities he gave them. We all had so much fun together. Our highlight was helicoptering into the remote Landsborough River, and how much of New Zealand we actually got to see, thanks Nate.”
- Katrina & Rob
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Follow the Journey
Surf, rivers, stories, and life between adventures.