Meet Hilary: Minaret Station’s Tourism Operations 2IC
Behind every unforgettable stay at Minaret Station is a team of passionate individuals, and Hilary Smith is no exception
As Tourism Operations 2IC, her days are spent orchestrating seamless guest experiences and leading guided adventures that showcase the unparalleled beauty of New Zealand’s Southern Alps.
A Love for the Outdoors
Hilary grew up in Christchurch, where she was surrounded by natural beauty that shaped her love for the outdoors. With the Port Hills, Lyttelton Harbour, and Arthur’s Pass as her childhood playgrounds, she spent her early years rock climbing, tramping, waterskiing, and snowboarding. These formative experiences ignited a lifelong passion for outdoor adventures.
A Journey Back to Her Roots
Though her professional path took some unexpected turns, Hilary’s passion for the outdoors eventually led her back to where she feels most at home. After gaining outdoor education qualifications and teaching waterskiing in the US, she pursued degrees in Fine Arts and Nursing, spending a decade in healthcare. During this time, she worked as one of Sir Tim Wallis’s nurses—a role that brought her into The Alpine Group fold and gave her a deep appreciation for the vision behind Minaret Station.
"Tim taught me so much and instilled in me a passion for these beautiful places I now get to share with guests from around the world. I miss my big friend, but I know he’d be thrilled that I am still part of the Minaret family."
Honoured to Create Unforgettable Moments
Hilary’s favourite part of her role at Minaret Station is working with a remarkable team to deliver truly unforgettable experiences. "Guests who have traveled extensively around the world are blown away by the beauty, the level of service, and the mode of transport. It’s an honor to be part of that experience," she shares.
As she looks ahead to the summer season, Hilary is eager to deepen her knowledge of the geography, flora, fauna, and history of the breathtaking regions Minaret Station explores. Sharing this understanding with guests is not just a professional goal but a personal passion.
Life Beyond Minaret Station
When not guiding guests through some of New Zealand’s most pristine landscapes, Hilary treasures time with her family, fostering a love of the outdoors in her young son. In quieter moments, you’ll find her in her pottery studio, where she teaches classes, fulfills commissions, and works on her own creative projects.
For Hilary, life at Minaret Station is about more than just a career—it’s about sharing the magic of these extraordinary places and being part of a legacy that inspires awe in every guest.