Frequently asked questions

Imagine your own New Zealand tour including: the best locations; exactly the things you want to see and do; and the style of accommodation you like. And then imagine relaxing and taking in the views along the way with notable sights pointed out and explained. It's like a bespoke self-drive holiday without the driving.

An independent coach tour fits in with you and your plans. Where you would need to arrange your plans around an organised tour itinerary, our customised coach tours are unique to you. They fit around your flights and any other commitments you might have while you are in New Zealand.

It couldn't be easier to create your perfect New Zealand coach touring experience.

Our vastly experienced team know your coach travel options every step along your dream route. And they know options you probably won't have dreamed of or found in your own research.

They'll talk to you about your plans and interests. Then they'll create a coach travel and holiday itinerary that is perfect for your needs.

Touring New Zealand by coach is a great way to see New Zealands' beauty. You get to experience the best the country has to offer and someone else gets to do the organising, driving and ensuring everything goes to plan.

There are 3 main types or styles of coach touring available in New Zealand.  These are independent touring, escorted touring and small groups.

To find out more about escorted and small group tours please visit out sister site New Zealand Coach Tours to find out more.

Some coaches have superior suspension for comfort, air conditioning, reclining seats, on board bathroom, intercom systems and are generally newer vehicles but some of your travel legs use Intercity coaches and therefore bathrooms may not be on board. In general the quality and standard of the coaches and vehicles are excellent.

Independent coach touring travel legs can start at various times depending on the location. Ask one of consultants to give you a daily breakdown for the tour you are interested in.

The coaches used on independent tours may have toilets on some of the legs. However bear in mind that the coaches on all tours will usually stop every 2 hours on average for comfort stops.

 Independent tour coaches can hold around 48 passengers maximum if full.

All Thrifty Tours that do this part of the journey will be on the Tranz Alpine train and you will complete the entire journey from Christchurch to Greymouth or vice versa.

This entirely depends on your travel times. Ideally, you would do both! Mutually stunning, each island has unique, individual attractions. However, if you have limited time we recommend choosing one island to thoroughly explore as opposed to trying to rush them both. There's always next time! So to help you decide here's a quick overview of what you can expect:

North Island:

If you're more of a sun and sand kind of person, then the North is for you. Significantly warmer with many accessible surf beaches, coves and sheltered bays - the North is also home to geothermal Rotorua, all of New Zealand's active volcanoes, and the country’s capital city Wellington. It boasts the longest beach in New Zealand (Ninety Mile Beach) and its sub-tropical Bay of Island region is renowned for its white sand and crystal clear waters.

The South Island

If you love mountains, vineyards and dramatic scenery, then the South is the island you'll enjoy the most. With the Southern Alps running the length of the country you’re never far from some of the most remarkable views in the country. Renowned for it’s hiking, the South has five of New Zealand’s ‘Great Walks,’ multiple award-winning wineries, glaciers, rainforest, lakes and dusty plains. It is also home to the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown.

New Zealand is beautiful in every season - but the best time to come really depends on what you would like to do.

New Zealand in Spring is a great time to visit as the days are beginning to warm up, but the nights are still crisp and cool. Flowers begin to bloom, and lambs are born all across the country, making for a lively and vibrant atmosphere.

If you're headed here in the Summer expect long warm days perfect for swimming, kayaking, biking, and hiking. You’ll get plenty of time to enjoy the outdoors because it doesn't get dark until 10pm.

Have your camera ready if you're visiting in Autumn, because the changing of the leaves is really something. If you’re into hiking, this is the best time to come for you. Slightly cool but not too cold, the trails will be virtually empty and the days (mostly) clear and crisp. The new season brings spectacular colour to every New Zealand region, but a must-see at this time of year is  Arrowtown, where the hillside is burnished with every shade of red and gold.

If skiing is your thing, Winter is the time for you. Think bluebird days and powdery snow followed by mulled wine and a crackling fire. If skiing isn't your thing, hiking is still great at this time of year, and many of the trails have natural hot springs to relax in.
 

New Zealand has a wide range of accommodation to suit any budget. There are six distinct styles including: Motels, three star hotels, four star hotels, luxury lodges and five star hotels, bed and breakfasts, and premium bed and breakfasts.

Motels
The motels we recommend are of a very high standard and many have facilities on-par with hotels. Costs can also be comparative of hotels, especially in smaller locations such as Kaikoura and the West Coast where other accommodation types are limited. All motels offer self-contained facilities including cooking utensils, a hot plate and microwave, kettle, crockery and cutlery.  Some also offer facilities such as hot-tubs, swimming pools and saunas. Motes usually have bedrooms separate to the living area, making them ideal for families.

Three-star hotels
In New Zealand, the star rating of a hotel applies to the facilities and services on offer, and not necessarily the value or quality of these services. Throughout  the country there are many three star hotels that offer exceptional service and accommodations. All the three star hotels that we book offer restaurant and room service facilities.

Four-star hotels
Four star hotels are prevalent in New Zealand and are generally very high quality. Most have a range or room types including standard, deluxe, superior or lake/mountain view suites etc.  Many also have two and three bedroom suites which are great when travelling in a large group or with family.  Most have swimming pools, gyms, a choice of restaurants and room service and most will occupy premium positions within a town network.

Luxury lodges and hotels
New Zealand is internationally renowned for its luxury lodges and upmarket hotels. From cool cosmopolitan properties to premium lodges in scenic locations these accommodations are five star and provide just about anything you can ask for including private in-house chefs, helicopter tours, fishing and hunting guides and spa treatments.

Bed and Breakfast homestays
Bed and Breakfast homestays are often the highlight of our guest’s tours. Beyond just a bedroom in a house, staying at these properties are like going on holiday to a friends place. Owners and operators are enthusiastic kiwi ambassadors and are situated in scenic or central locations. All the bed and breakfast properties we recommend have en suite bathrooms and comfortable bedrooms.

Premium bed and breakfast homestays
Premium homestays are simply the luxurious end of B&B accommodation. Properties are generally historically listed, contemporary or unique homes converted into high-end guest houses.

 

In New Zealand the cost of things will vary according to the location. In more remote places you should factor in paying a lot more for everyday items such as groceries and petrol. If you have children, tourist attractions usually offer a family rate which will give you the best value for money.

To give you an indication of what things will cost in New Zealand here is general price guide:

• Cup of coffee (flat white) NZ$4 to NZ$5
• Glass of beer or wine NZ$7 to $NZ15
• 2 Litres of Milk NZ$4 to NZ$5
• Jet Boat Ride for 2 children and 2 adults NZ$299
• Milford Sound Scenic Cruise NZ$70 per adult
• 30 minute Scenic Helicopter Flight NZ$300 per adult

Petrol prices vary but you can expect to pay the following in petrol for your entire holiday:

• 10 day South Island tour in mid-size car - expect to spend around NZ$400 on fuel
• 14 day tour of both islands in mid-size car - expect to spend around NZ$550 on fuel
• 23 day tour of both islands in mid-size car - expect to spend around NZ$900 on fuel

New Zealand food is internationally renowned. A wide range of cuisine and styles are available to suit every budget. Dining out in the larger cities you will have a plethora of options while in the smaller towns you may only have one or two choices.

Restaurants
There is a far more extensive range of cuisine in our larger cities. Typically international eateries and fusion restaurants are the go-to fare. Most New Zealand fusion restaurants will offer at several ‘typical’ Kiwi dishes such as lamb or salmon. As a guide, you can expect to pay between NZ$25 and NZ$35 for a main dinner course at most restaurants. However, at a high-end restaurant, you can expect to pay between NZ$40 - NZ$100 for a main dinner course. For lunch, prices range between NZ$12-NZ$25 at most cafes. Tipping is not required in New Zealand and in no way expected. Hospitality staff are paid (at the very least) a living wage and are not reliant on tips.  

Take-away/ fast food
If you're in need of a quick fix, New Zealand has an abundance of fast food options. Again, in the larger cities, there is more choice. In New Zealand ‘take-away’ or ‘fast food’ goes beyond the general ‘burgers and fries’ and includes all manner of cuisines including Indian, Thai, Japanese, Mediterranean and classic Kiwi fare, fish and chips.  A take-away dinner  for two people costs anywhere between NZ$20-NZ$30, and a breakfast is anywhere between NZ$15- $NZ25 depending on the style and location  

Self catering
When travelling New Zealand, the most cost effective way to dine is to self-cater - particularly if you are staying in motel or apartment style accommodations that contain a kitchenette or kitchen so you can prepare your own meals. Most towns will have a main supermarket or a general grocery store. New Zealand grows much of its own produce - and local farmers markets are a great source of fresh fruit, vegetables, honey and eggs.

You can check long range forecasts for weather on the New Zealand Metservice Website.

New Zealand experiences four distinctive seasons, officially these are:

Summer: December, January and February
Autumn: March, April and May
Winter: June, July and August
Spring: September, October and November

However, the weather can be variable and does not always follow traditional seasonal expectations – summer, for instance, can be both very hot and very cold.

Seasonal Temperatures and Conditions?

Summer: Expect an average high of 25 C (76 F) in the north to around 22 C (72 F) in the south.
Average lows (evening time) are 13 C (55 F) in the north to 12 C (54 F) in the south.

Autumn: Expect an average high of 20 C (68 F) in the north to around 17 C (63 F) in the south.
Average lows (evening time) are 11 C (52 F) in the north to 7 C (45 F) in the south.

Winter: Expect an average high of 15 C (59 F) in the north to around 10 C (50 F) in the south.
Average lows (evening time) are 6 C (43 F) in the north to 2 C (35 F) in the south.

Spring: Expect an average high of 18 C (65 F) in the north to around 16 C (61 F) in the south.
Average lows (evening time) are 9 C (48 F) in the north to 7 C (45 F) in the south.

Seasonal Highs & Lows:

Rainfall: Rainfall is generally consistent throughout the year between 7 and 11 days per month, but some regions (such as the South Island's West Coast and Fiordland) get drier during the winter months.

Snow: In the North Island snow mainly affects the high Central Plateau around Tongariro National Park where ski fields Whakapapa and Turoa are located. Other peaks such as Mt Egmont / Taranaki and mountain ranges also get snow but not in the way that will affect travel through surrounding regions. You are unlikely to experience snow anywhere but the Central Plateau in the North. In the South Island almost anywhere can experience snow. The Southern Alps – stretching the length of the island – is entirely covered during winter meaning you’re never too far from a dusting of white. Canterbury, Otago and Southland generally get the most snow and this is why most of the ski resorts are based here.

Driving conditions: New Zealand roads are very well maintained and well signposted. Local road maintenance crews are very used to the wintry conditions that some regions can experience and respond quickly to keep roads clear and safe.
 

New Zealand is known for its abundant and fresh cuisine. Described as Pacific Rim, it draws on inspiration from Europe, Asia and Indonesia. Being a small island country food served in restaurants is seasonal and consequently, always fresh. Classic New Zealand dishes include lamb, bluff oysters, salmon, whitebait fritters and pavlova, the national dessert.

Every kind of international cuisine can be found in most places nationwide, although the larger cities have a much wider selection - as you would expect. While you're here be sure to try another kiwi classic,  fish and chips on the beach. For specific dietary requirements, New Zealand caters well to those who are gluten free/vegan/dairy intolerant. Most places have at least two, if not a range of alternative food options. One of the best ways to get a restaurant recommendation is to ask a local or your accommodation host. Often one cafe or restaurant will be more regularly frequented, one might have better coffee or one might have a great atmosphere etc.

 

The cost of a restaurant meal including drinks will vary, but your bill should be roughly $100 and up for a couple, and a little more if you're at a fine dining establishment.

Expect to pay NZ$15 - NZ$35 for a main meal at a local restaurant, and NZ$30+ for mains at fine dining restaurants. A good hearty pub meal will be around NZ$25 for a main course.

Drinks cost between NZ$6 and NZ$12 for a glass of wine (depending on what it is of course) and a beer will cost you NZ$5 and NZ$10.

A bottle of wine will cost anything from NZ$30 upwards in a restaurant or cafe.

New Zealand has a small population of Muslims but also welcomes many Muslim visitors who require Halal meals. This means there are plenty of Halal certified or specialist restaurants in New Zealand.

This comprehensive guide details restaurants and eateries offering Halal food in New Zealand.

We accept Visa and MasterCard payments and process them via our secure credit card processing system.

This system is administered entirely by our bank (Bank of New Zealand) and DPS (Direct Payment Solutions).

When completing the booking form the final stage is the payment process. From there just follow the instructions.

When a your payment is made the screen will display a reference number and a receipt will be emailed to you. (And we are notified automatically of all payments.)

The balance for your tour is due 45 days prior to the start date or if you have made a reservation inside 45 days it is due upon you receiving a confirmation document for your tour.

Note: the balance due date is displayed on the costs page of your itinerary.

Yes. The payment system we use offers the highest levels of safety and security available.

The system we use is administered entirely by DPS (Direct Payment Solutions) -- a world leader in online payment technology -- and our bank, the Bank of New Zealand. When you click through to the payment system the transaction is completed within a secure (https) page and the information entered is only seen by DPS and our bank.

Please contact your trip planner if you have more questions about paying for your New Zealand holiday.

Yes. You can choose to pay for your tour in another currency.

Choose your preferred currency on the payments page and our system will convert your balance into your currency using BNZ (Bank of New Zealand) exchange rates.

Paying in Your Local Currency

For example, selecting to pay us in $US will mean you will be charged that exact $US amount, if your card was issued by a US bank.

Paying in NZ Dollars

If you choose to pay in $NZ using a non-New Zealand credit card, then your credit card company or bank may charge you a currency conversion fee. This can sometimes be around 3% of the transactions. So check with your bank or credit card company first to make sure which is the best option for you.

Note: the cost in currencies other than $NZ may fluctuate with exchange rate changes. We use the NZ$ price as the base cost.

Please contact your trip planner if you have more questions about paying for your New Zealand holiday.

If you don't have a credit card or prefer not to use one then contact us and we can supply all the information you need to make a direct credit to our bank account.

Yes. You can split payments decide how much you wish to pay on the balance of the tour or if you are travelling in a party then making the appropriate payment for your share is easy.

When you get to the Payments page, in the payment process, simply edit the amount in the white box before clicking through to the Payment Processing page.

Yes. You can use as many different credit cards as you wish.

The system processes each card individually and allocates to your account. So splitting costs between fellow travellers is easy.

Please contact your trip planner if you have more questions about paying for your New Zealand holiday.

No. We do not charge an additional fee for paying with your credit card.

Paying in New Zealand dollars
Our tours are priced in New Zealand dollars. If you choose to pay with NZ currency your credit card supplier may charge you a currency conversion fee, much like if you went to a bank and purchased foreign currency.

Paying with other currencies
We do give you the option to pay in alternative currency. For example: paying in US dollars using a credit issued in the US should mean there is no currency conversion fee applied by your credit card company.

Currency conversion rates
The currency conversion rates we use are supplied by our bank here in New Zealand.
 

Please contact your trip planner if you have more questions about paying for your New Zealand holiday.

Full payment for your tour is due 45 days prior to the start date or, if you have made a reservation within 45 days, it is due when you receive a confirmation document for your tour.

Note: the balance due date is displayed on the costs page of your itinerary.

At the time of booking we ask for a deposit payment of NZ$250 per person or 10% of the total tour value (whichever is higher).

Occasionally some items such as domestic airfares may also need paying for at the time of the deposit. These are items which are usually paid for immediately by us and so we collect this in advance too. The deposit amount will be calculated automatically and displayed on the payment page. Deposits are non refundable.

Found a tour you like? You can simply click the "Book Now" tab on the tour menu to begin the booking process.

Note: The booking process requires a deposit to be made through our secure credit card system (Visa and MasterCard only).

Yes, we take reservations from all over the world for all our tours. Our bookings system accepts Visa and MasterCard for payments through secure technology.

Yes, just get your travel agent to contact us with the details and we can direct them to our dedicated travel agent system.

Yes we like to know about anything that needs consideration on your tour, such as ability to walk up stairs etc. Once you have booked, you will receive a form requesting details of any medical conditions that may be relevant to your tour experience. This allows us to make any necessary arrangements.

Completing our booking form will supply us with the information we need to arrange your time in New Zealand

The booking form asks you for the information we need such as names, address, phone number etc. We also ask for your flight details if you have those arranged already (if not you can still book and supply those later).

Requesting Special Requirements

There is a section on the form which allows you to add special requests such as dietary requirements or preferred bedding configurations or anything else you want to let us know.

Deposit Payment

A deposit payment -- 10% of the total itinerary cost or $200 per person, whichever is higher -- is required via our secure credit card system. This is administered by DPS (Direct Payment Solutions) and our bank (Bank of New Zealand) and is extremely safe and secure. Your credit card details are not stored by us.

Please contact your trip planner if you have more questions about information required to complete your booking.

You can cancel your tour at any time for any reason however please be aware that cancellations fees may apply.

Our full terms and conditions can be viewed here. We strongly advise that you purchase travel insurance that will cover you for any cancellation or interruption costs.

Consult a local professional travel insurance expert for detailed information on this.

We strongly recommend you purchase travel insurance. There are many factors that could cause you to amend or cancel your trip, so ensuring you have cover for extra costs or cancellation fees is important. This means that any delays or unforeseen costs you may incur should be covered. We recommend purchasing your travel insurance locally to make dealing with any claims on your return easier.

No, the cost of the tour does not include any kind of insurance. We recommend you purchase your travel insurance locally.

New Zealand is a fairly informal country and very few places insist on strict dress codes. If you’re spending time in one of the big cities then it pays to bring a tidier outfit for an evening out, otherwise comfort and practicality is key when choosing clothing for your visit. Layers are essential - as the weather can change rapidly. Natural fibres that draw moisture away from the skin like cotton and wool are the best for our climate.  

Ensure you pack a rain jacket
A wind and rain proof jacket is important to have when travelling here. As mentioned the weather in New Zealand is changeable, even in the height of summer. If you're heading to Fiordland National Park or the West Coast be prepared for a high chance of rain. These are among some of the wettest places on earth, but that in itself is part of what makes it so special.

Come prepared for water based activities.
Many activities in New Zealand are based around water. On activities such as hikes or glacier walks you will usually be provided with suitable equipment  - but if you're planning on going jet-boating, kayaking or swimming, don't forget to pack the appropriate gear.

Bring sturdy shoes for walking
All of the walking tracks and paths are well marked and well maintained so comfortable walking shoes or sneakers. However, if you're planning to venture into the wilderness or tackle any of New Zealand’s Great Walks, Hiking boots are a good idea.  

Protect yourself from the sun
The UV levels are particularly strong in New Zealand so be sure to bring a hat and at least 50 SPF Sunscreen.
 

Please contact one of our experienced trip planners if you have any more questions about what to wear while you are in New Zealand

Depending on where you are travelling from, it is likely that you will need a transformer. New Zealand operates on 240 volts (50hz), so appliances on other voltages will need a transformer.

Finding the voltage your devices operate on
Most devices state their operating voltage near where the power cord plug. If the voltage isn't clear then you may need to check on the manufacturer's website for more information.

Adaptors for New Zealand power sockets
You will also need an adaptor to suit NZ sockets. These can be purchased at the airport or online if you can't find one in your local stores.  New Zealand sockets are usually three pins, rather than the two pin sockets that you may find in Europe and North America. (See Socket 1 on the useful socket comparison table available here.)

Please contact one of our experienced trip planners if you have any more questions about powering electronics while you are in New Zealand

Getting New Zealand Currency before you leave
It is a good idea bring a small amount of New Zealand Currency with you, so you don't need to spend time organising cash at the airport or at the bank on your first day. Your local bank may need to order New Zealand Currency so allow a few days for this in your trip preparation. If you for some reason are not able to get any currency before you come, all major kiosks at the airport should be able to help you.

Exchanging cash as you travel in New Zealand
You won't need a lot of cash at once, as exchanging cash in New Zealand is easy. Just get enough to cover small purchases on your first day, such as a cup of coffee or lunch. When you do need New Zealand Currency, any branch of a major bank including ASB, ANZ, BNZ, Westpac or Kiwibank will have the latest conversion rates, which are consistent throughout the country.

Carrying large amounts of cash while you travel In New Zealand
New Zealand has one of the highest credit card and eftpos usages in the world, so there is no need to carry large amounts of cash. Most retailers including traders at local markets and convenience stores accept electronic payments. This means you will be able to pay for virtually anything with your debit or credit card as you move around - and this is also the safest and most secure way to cover your expenses while you are in New Zealand.

Please contact one of our experienced trip planners if you have any more questions about shopping while you are in New Zealand

The time varies dramatically across the seasons and from north to south. Click here for a table of sunrise and sunset times.

Most visitors to New Zealand do not require a visa to enter for the purpose of a holiday or vacation under or visa waiver program.

You can see if you qualify for this by visiting the New Zealand Immigration website here.

If you do need a visa to visit New Zealand then you should contact the New Zealand consulate in your home country. We can assist with this process by providing a copy of your booked itinerary if required.

Note regarding Travelling via Australia: nearly all visitors to Australia require a visa to enter, even if you only transit. It is the responsibility of the travel agent or airline to advise you of this requirement but please make sure you ask about this if you know you are travelling via Australia.

Dates may vary by a few days from school to school but most New Zealand schools are on holiday on these dates.

• 17 December 2016 - 29 January 2017.
• 14 April 2017 - 30 April 2017
• 8 July - 23 July 2017
• 30 September - 15 October 2017
• 20 December 2017 - 29 January 2018
• 14 April - 29 April 2018
• 7 July - 22 July 2018
• 29 September - 14 October 2018

Only New Zealand dollars are legal tender in New Zealand. All our prices include GST.

In the major cities some stores may choose to provide pricing in other currencies but be aware that the final transaction must be in New Zealand dollars.

Please contact your trip planner if you have more questions about paying for your purchases on your New Zealand holiday.

We recommend converting your foreign currency at any branch of our large bank chains. Our five major banks are: ANZ, ASB, Westpac, BNZ and Kiwibank.

There are bank branches in almost every town but not note that most are only open Monday - Friday.

The rate offered by banks does not vary at different locations so changing money at the airport banks is the same rate as changing downtown Auckland.

Yes, credit cards are an accepted form of payment in New Zealand.

Visa and MasterCard providers are widely accepted as payment for almost anything, but American Express and Diners Cards are not accepted in some places so its best to arrange an alternative if you need to.

Smoking is prohibited by law in all cafes, bars, restaurants and other public buildings.

Smoking is also not permitted inside rental cars.

Smoking is not permitted inside hotels or other accommodations.

Some properties are also smoke free in their entire grounds. If this presents a problem to you then please let us know.

Legally, all our hospitality workers are paid a living wage and tipping is not customary or expected in New Zealand.  However, if your food or service was exceptional you may choose to reward someone for a job well done.

Many bars and cafes have a tip jar at the counter, and it is common to put your change in here.

Auckland International Airport is New Zealands largest and busiest airport. It is the main airport for international arrivals into New Zealand and is located 40 minutes drive from Auckland's central business district.

More information on Auckland airport.

Wellington International Airport is located in the suburb of Seatoon. It services all major international flights into the lower North Island and is a 25 minute drive to the central city

More information on Wellington airport.

Christchurch International Airport is the main airport serving Christchurch City and arrival point for long haul international flights into the South Island. It is located 12 kilometres from Christchurch's central business district – about 30 minutes drive or taxi ride.

More information on Christchurch Airport.

Queenstown Airport is New Zealands fastest growing airport. It has been comprehensively refurbished recently to accommodate evening arrivals and increased international arrivals from Australia. The airport is located in Frankton, Queenstown, a 15 minute drive from Queenstown's town centre.

More information on Queenstown Airport.

No.  Goods or services purchased while you are here in New Zealand are liable for all local taxes,  as mandated by New Zealand law.

However, there are a select few store who have a duty free agreement to sell items without GST applied. Items purchased at these stores are likely to be sent to the airport for collection, or shipped directly to your home overseas. Usually this is only possible on high value items. 

Yes. All purchases in New Zealand are covered by Consumer Protection Laws.

For example: If you purchase a camera here in New Zealand that you find to be faulty when you return home, the New Zealand retailer is still responsible to either repair or replace the item according to the terms of the warranty or guarantee.

Our preferred airline is Air New Zealand and the airfares we will book for you all have a luggage allowance of 23kg.  However, you are allowed an additional 10kg for sports gear and if you are travelling with children you may also take a pram and a car seat.

Note: additional bags can be carried for a moderate additional fee.

New Zealand's has a world-class injury scheme called Accident Compensation Cover. This means that in the unlikely scenario you are injured while in New Zealand - you may be entitled to help.

It is important to note that ACC is purely for accidental injury cover.

For example:

 - If you were hiking and you twisted your ankle, your medical care would be covered by ACC.
 - But if you felt sick and wanted to see a doctor, you would not be covered by ACC.

For a more detailed list of what types of injuries you are covered for see here