New Zealand: Best of the North Island - 7 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the age range for this tour?

  This tour is designed for young travellers, with a minimum age of 18 and a maximum age of 39. It falls under the '18-to-Thirtysomethings' travel style.

• What meals are included in the tour?

  Six breakfasts and two dinners are included in this trip.

• What kind of accommodation is provided?

  Accommodation consists of hostels and basic lodgings for 6 nights, which are multi-share with 4-8 people. Rooms are generally split by gender, and most will have shared bathroom facilities. Towels or soap may not always be provided, so bringing your own is recommended.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  The physical rating for this tour is 3.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 20 travellers, with an average group size of 16.

• What modes of transportation are used on this trip?

  Transportation on this trip includes private vehicle, bus, boat, kayak, and walking. Our vans are mini-coaches, or occasionally smaller 13-seater vehicles for smaller groups. All vehicles are factory built with comfortable seats and air-conditioning, and it is mandatory to wear a seatbelt.

• What are the main highlights and included activities of this tour?

  Highlights include surfing world-famous waves, learning about Maori culture in a geothermal valley, getting the adrenaline pumping in Rotorua, and enjoying a night out in Wellington. Included activities are a Welcome Meeting, a surf lesson in Raglan, a sea kayaking excursion in Raglan, a Maori cultural experience, a visit to Huka Falls, and a Lake Taupo sailboat trip. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities is also covered.

• What optional activities are available?

  Optional activities include: In Auckland, a Maritime Museum visit (24NZD) or America's Cup Experience (210NZD pre-tour). In Waiheke Island, an excursion (62-369NZD). In Waitomo, a Waitomo Valley Walk (Free) or Waitomo Cave Excursion (99NZD). In Rotorua, Rotorua Canopy Tours (199-269NZD), Hot Springs (50-360NZD), or Whitewater Rafting (135NZD). In Wellington, a Te Papa Museum visit (35NZD).

• Who will be leading the group?

  The group will be led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout the tour, along with local guides for specific activities.

• What currency is used in New Zealand, and what should I know about money?

  The currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but additional foreign purchase fees may apply. ATMs are common, but it's advisable to bring a combination of local currency (small bills), traveller’s cheques, and credit cards. An emergency fund of at least USD $200 (or equivalent) is also recommended.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have coverage for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum of USD 200,000. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage is strongly recommended.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, solo travellers do not incur a single supplement cost on group trips. They are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.

• What are the safety and security guidelines for this trip?

  Travellers should check their government's travel advice. A neck wallet or money belt for valuables is recommended. Leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is advised. Group leaders can amend itineraries due to safety concerns. Optional activities are at your own judgment. During free time in cities at night, it's recommended to stay in small groups and use taxis. Water-based activities should only be done with a guide, and swimming/snorkeling is at your own risk. Illegal drugs are not tolerated, and exploitation in the sex trade is against the tour philosophy; violations can lead to expulsion from the group.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses, focusing on Indigenous people, women, youth, and environmental protection. The tour operator covers all of Planeterra's operating costs, so 100% of donations go to projects.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency?

  Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call our local office in Melbourne. If no immediate answer, leave a detailed message. Emergency contact numbers from outside New Zealand: +64 211935846, from within New Zealand: 0211935846. Other regional numbers are available if the local operations manager cannot be reached.

• Is tipping customary on this trip?

  It is not customary in New Zealand to tip service providers, but it is appreciated for outstanding service, especially in quality restaurants (rarely more than 10%) or for taxi drivers/coffee shops. Do not tip local guides unless specifically asked by your CEO. A basic guideline for tipping your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) at the end of the trip is 5-10 NZD per person, per day.