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STYLE | special feature 21<br />
Image: Chris Todd<br />
Image: GRiehe<br />
Nathan Russ on a polar region zodiac excursion.<br />
Heritage Expeditions was founded in 1984 by Aaron<br />
and Nathan’s father, Rodney Russ, a keen biologist.<br />
Having worked with many endangered species including the<br />
black robin, Rodney came to the conclusion that instead<br />
of shutting these wilderness areas away from humans, they<br />
should be shared so that visitors can become willing, authentic<br />
ambassadors of these incredible environments and the animals<br />
that inhabit them. And so Heritage Expeditions was born.<br />
Today, Aaron and Nathan run the Christchurch-based<br />
family business that has always been a part of their lives.<br />
Aaron went on his first expedition at the tender age of<br />
five and by the time he turned eight, he was travelling on<br />
voyages more than regularly, spending a great deal of time<br />
on the company vessel. Each voyage sees a group of keen<br />
travellers board an expedition cruise ship to head for one of<br />
the far-flung destinations around the globe that the company<br />
explores. From the Solomon Islands to the Russian Far East or<br />
Antarctica, a quick weekend getaway this is not.<br />
Young elephant seal with king penguins on<br />
Macquarie Island.<br />
These expeditions are luxurious in their own right, just not<br />
in the traditional manner. While the vessels are comfortable<br />
and all amenities are within reach during the long voyages at<br />
sea, the real luxury comes in the form of, as corny as this may<br />
sound, the journey. It’s rather hard to categorise the customer<br />
base of this one-of-a-kind tour company. They’re a diverse<br />
bunch of professionals and retired business people from the<br />
world over who quite possibly, after decades of abundant<br />
wealth, have come to the conclusion that luxury isn’t an<br />
object, such as a set of golf clubs or designer bag, it’s an<br />
experience. Expedition leader and zoologist Aaron surmises<br />
the expeditions as boarding a boat with 50 new best friends.<br />
Together, they’ll witness things that most will only ever<br />
dream of. Alien landscapes, polar bears, whales, rare birds<br />
and penguins all delight the eyes. With no strict schedule,<br />
adventure calls. Hiking and kayaking are the best ways to<br />
get up close and personal with the surroundings, and it’s<br />
greatly encouraged.<br />
Life<strong>Style</strong><br />
You Dream it.<br />
We’ll Finance it.<br />
Private & Dealer Sales<br />
Call 0508 588 522<br />
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