You will have plenty of questions about your trip; from the time you first contact us, right up to your departure and indeed while you are on the road. We are ready to respond at all times, so keep asking no matter how trivial you feel they may be.
However, there are some common themes and the following may help…..
Which Island should I visit?
Both islands are amazing without a doubt, as is Stewart! They are different and ideally you would visit both, but if your time is limited, you would be better concentrating your efforts on one, and returning at a later date to visit the other. This is more common than you think! We’ll talk, and together work out what you would really like to do and see and we’ll come up with an itinerary which suits you best. The most important thing is not to try and see too much too quickly, that you end up spending too long in the car and don’t give yourself the chance to soak it up. It’s a holiday; your holiday!
When is the best time to visit New Zealand?
Whenever you can! It depends a little on what you would like to do. Swimming vs skiing. We’re open year round, so let’s talk; find out when suits you, what you would like to do and we promise to come up with a holiday which gives you the best of New Zealand no matter what time of year.
How does your booking process work?
- Contact us and we’ll set up a time to call you.
- We will discuss your holiday in detail, including wishes, interests, budget, type of accommodation and a whole lot more. (If you prefer we can do our discussions through email)
- Based on our discussions we will send you a proposal. Once you are happy we will ask for a deposit and your booking is underway.
What’s included?
Each tour is different: individually tailored for our clients, so the inclusions will vary. However, count on: accommodation; car rental; domestic flights; airport pick up and drop offs (where necessary – sometimes these will be by rental car); some excursions and activities; and an information pack containing your detailed itinerary and trip notes, vouchers, contact numbers, driving directions and en route suggestions to make sure you get the most out of your holiday. We are also available 24 hours a day should you need us.
You don’t have to think about a thing! Let us do all the work and you simply enjoy your holiday.
Are international airfares included?
No. Our tours start and end in New Zealand. However we will organise any domestic flights included in your itinerary.
General Costs
These of course vary……..however the following will give you some indication
Petrol $2.20 per litre
Coffee $4.50 – $5.00
Wine bottle in supermarket $15+; glass in a bar $10+
Beer $10+ in a bar
Lunch $10 for sandwich to $20 for a light meal
Dinner $25+ for main course
What if I would like to make some changes or cancel my trip?
You can cancel your tour at any time for any reason, however please be aware that cancellation fees and costs may apply. We will send you our full terms and conditions with our initial proposal. We strongly advise that you purchase travel insurance that will cover you for cancellation and interruption costs.
Practicalities – Insurance, Visa, driving licence, what to pack, wifi, electricity
Insurance – as above, we strongly advise you to purchase adequate travel insurance for your trip, which covers cancellation, interruption costs and any activities in which you choose to participate. Those with annual multi-trip travel insurance, please check that your New Zealand holiday isn’t longer than the stated amount on your insurance. Make sure you purchase a top up if necessary.
Visa – most visitors coming to New Zealand for the purpose of a holiday for 3 months or less (6 months or less for British Citizens) don’t require a visa but enter under the Visa Waiver Visitor Visa. Please check with New Zealand Immigration for your individual requirements.
Driving Licence – You must hold a full valid drivers licence. If the licence is not in English you must carry an accurate translation (please visit the NZ Transport Agency website for further details about approved translators). You will only be able to drive the same types of vehicles you are licensed to drive in your home country. You must carry your licence or International Driving Permit (plus the licence that the permit is based on) with you at all times that you are driving.
What to pack – we have shops here in NZ so don’t panic. We will send you a general packing list with your pre-departure information
Wifi – we are very well connected! Wi-fi is generally fairly universally available. We will let you know if you are going to go out of zone.
Electricity – Electricity is supplied at 230/240 volts (50 hertz). Power outlets accept flat three or two pin plugs. Adaptors are readily available in New Zealand, but it would be useful to bring at least one with you so that you are sorted for your first night.