Beckley Coachlines was founded in 1998 by David and Gay Beckley. Since then, it has grown into a trusted resource that has helped thousands of people get out and enjoy our beautiful country. David and Gay spent years running tours and charters, catering to the international tourism market, as well as helping their Ashburton community get out and enjoy shows, events and multi-day tours throughout NZ.
The family has ties to travel and accommodation that go back over 100 years. David's father's mother was Mary Turton, who was the daughter of one of Ashburton's founding families, William and Frances Turton. They erected Ashburton's first building and started an accommodation house and stables called the "Ashburton Arms". They will forever be known as the Father and Mother of Ashburton.
Gay's father's mother Lucy Duff, was the daughter of Neill Duff. The Duffs ran a coach company that carried people and goods throughout the Ashburton district based from the Methven livery stables just over 100 years ago.
In 2022, amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, Andrew who had spent his working life as a Paramedic, and as a Musician and Drum Major in the NZ Army Band, and his partner Sheree, with a background in Psychology, Teaching and Youth Health, took on the challenge of continuing the family legacy.
They have made it their mission to continue in David and Gay's footsteps, treating their clients like family. Their backgrounds in health have shown them the impact of social isolation and they are committed to ensuring they do their bit to bring people together.
David would always say "If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours". While this may be a somewhat simple philosophy, it is one in which Andrew and Sheree strongly believe in. It is this passion for service, that our family has had for over 100 years, that keeps today's Beckley Coachlines moving forward.
"It is so nice to be working in an area where we make people smile, and help them to create ever-lasting memories. We love hearing about people who have made new friends that they now keep in contact with". "By decreasing social isolation, we increase connection and sense of belonging, which in turn helps people to live longer and happier lives".
-- Andrew and Sheree
We look forward to having you travel with us soon!
