Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What days/dates do your tours depart?
Each of our tours departs daily, subject to availability at the time of booking.
Why is the farmstay supplement cheaper for superior than for standard accommodation?
Our tours already include accommodation in either a hotel or a motel. By choosing to stay on a farm instead, you are substituting the farmstay for that night's accommodation. When travelling in superior accommodation, more money has already been accounted for in the hotel cost, so the difference between farmstay and hotel accommodation is less.
Do your tours include meals?
Meals are not included when you are staying in hotels and motels - this leaves you free to explore and sample the wide variety of local restaurants and cafes. Breakfast options are available, please ask one of our consultants when making your enquiry.
Will there be a tour guide travelling with us?
Because you are travelling independently, using scheduled coach and rail services, you are not part of an escorted group. Your drivers will provide a commentary throughout your tour.
What is the difference between Silver and Bronze accommodation?
For Silver accommodation, you will stay in selected motor inns or hotels. These are centrally located and have a selection of restaurants and bars, as well as the facilities expected in deluxe rooms. In Bronze accommodation, you will stay in centrally located hotels and motels. Some motels have kitchen facilities as well as colour TV, radios etc.
I want to spend more time in a particular place. Can I add a night to the tour?
All of our tours are flexible and we can add or drop nights in each destination to suit your timetable. Contact us for advice and a new cost.
I am travelling alone but I do not want to pay the single room supplement. Can you find me a roommate?
Unfortunately it is extremely unlikely that there will be another person travelling on exactly the same tour on the same date and in the same class as you, so we are unable to match you up with another traveller.
Are transfers included?
Transfers between trains, coaches and your accommodation are provided as part of your Tour. Unless you ask us to book your pre-tour arrangements, you must make your own way to the start of the tour.
Where do your tours depart from?
Auckland coaches depart from the Intercity terminal, Sky City, Hobson Street. Auckland trains depart from the Britomart railway station. Christchurch coaches depart from the Intercity terminal, 123 Worcester Street. Christchurch trains depart from the Addington railway station, Clarence Street.
What if something unexpected goes wrong during the tour?
You can call us toll-free within New Zealand on 0800-803-550 Someone from our office is always on call, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
How much do the tours cost in US dollars (USD) or British pounds (GBP)?
As a general rule of thumb, you can divide the prices by 2 for an approximate USD equivalent, or by 3 for an approximate GBP equivalent.
Do I have to carry my own bags or will somebody do it for me?
In Gold and Silver accommodation, the hotels will generally have a porter who will assist you with your bags. Bronze properties do not have porters, but often your driver will be willing to assist.