Preparing for your tour

All our self-drive tours include all accommodation costs, car rental (including insurance*), pre-booked activities and items that are clearly identified in your tour. Your tour is also inclusive of all local government taxes.

Items that are not included in the cost of your tour are:

• Parking (unless specified)
• Fuel
• Meals (unless indicated as included)
• Gratuities
• Rental car extras, such as baby seats and additional insurance.

* our tours all include CDW insurance with minimum excess.

See other FAQs for indications of costs for some of these items.

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

Smoking is not permitted inside rental cars, nor inside hotels or other accommodations.

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

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.
 

Depending on where you are travelling from, it is likely that you will need a transformer. New Zealand operates on 230 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.)

Once you have confirmed your booking with us we will invite you to use our travel app. This will give you on-the-go access to your full itinerary with all the most up-to-date confirmations.

You will benefit from:

• Interactive mapping,
• A messaging service,
• On location restaurant and activity guides,
• Augmented reality and much more.

This app is compatible with Android or Apple software and can be easily downloaded from the App Store/Google Play on your mobile. To find it search "New Zealand Touring". Please include the quotation marks to find the app much quicker. You can get your login details from your travel consultant at any time.