New Zealand Coach Holidays
Touring with Confidence
MENU
KIA ORA
TIAKI PROMISE
THE FINE PRINT
01: HEALTH AND SAFETY
-Our Priority
-Fitness to Travel / Good to - Go Form
-Travel and Health Insurance
-Prescriptions and - Medications
-Travel Requirements
-Airline Policies and
- Procedures
-Airport Transfers
-Coach Captain and Tour
- Leader
-Staying Healthy on Tour
-Medical Assistance
-Coach Cleanliness
-Coach Emergency
- Evacuation Procedure
-Accommodation and - Attractions
02:
FAQ -PRE TOUR
-Passport, Visa
- Requirements and Traveller - -
- Declarations
-SOLO Travellers Tours
-Documentation Pack
-Clothing
-Laundry Facilities
- Airline and Airport Taxes
-Airline Check-in
-Restriction on Liquids
-Bio Security
-Customs and Duty-Free
-Money Matters
EMERGENCY CONTACTS
REFERENCE LINKS 24 / 7 SUPPORT
03: FAQ -ON TOUR
-Airline Lost Luggage
-Time Zones
-Weather
-Goods and Services Tax
-Electricity
-Smoking Laws
-Calling Home
-Wi-Fi
-Celebrating a Special - - -
- Occasion
-Optional Activities
-Optional Supa-$aver
- Coupons
-Tour Farewell
-Tipping and Gratuities
-Our Nominated Charity
-Your Feedback is Important
PAGES 5 - 15
PAGES 16 - 22
PAGES 23 - 28
KIA OR A
The team at Grand Pacific Tours (GPT) look forward to providing you a New Zealand holiday experience of a lifetime.
This Touring with Confidence Guidebook is a valuable resource outlining our detailed approach to Health and Safety, so you can travel with us and be assured that your well-being is our number one priority.
Visiting a different country, you want to be prepared, so throughout the Guidebook we have also included a range of general information topics which will cover the most frequently asked questions (FAQ) relating to touring New Zealand.
You can now relax in the comfort of knowing that you will be looked after from start to finish. As a coach holiday specialist, we take care of it all leaving you to get on with creating incredible holiday memories.
Peter Harding Founder Grand Pacific Tours
RESPECT The Tiaki Promise
Tiaki - Care for New Zealand was created through a collective desire to share a connection to the nature world, inspiring and helping visitors to travel safely and conscientiously. In Aotearoa New Zealand, people have a strong connection to the place around them.
Tiaki invites us all to look at the world through this indigenous lens. To form a deeper connection with place, and to reflect this in our attitudes and behaviours. To commit to travelling in this way is to take the Tiaki Promise. This means caring for our land, our forests, and our precious landmarks.
Respect our oceans, their power and their ecosystems. Protect our natural beauty and the life that inhabits our natural spaces. Travel lightly and safely on our roads, act responsibly when exploring our natural habitats.
Respect our local customs, our culture, and our people, both those who came before and those who will come after.
More information www.tiakinewzealand.com
OUR PRIORITY
Coach touring is a group travel shared experience and the instigation of extensive health and safety protocols incorporating the entire travel period is integral to the success of the tour.
In this new and fast changing post pandemic era, we are doing all we can to adapt to new requirements and expectations. Measures have been put in place to elevate our hygiene standards and protocols, and we are working in tandem with guidelines set by our suppliers, government and health authorities. We want you to feel comfortable and confident when touring with GPT.
FITNESS TO TRAVEL / GOOD TO GO FORM
The general demographic of GPT’s travellers is between 61 - 80 years of age.
While travelling on a coach tour provides a relaxing way to see New Zealand, allowing you to sit back and let someone else do the driving including a fabulous commentary; a moderate level of mobility and fitness is required to participate in all aspects of the tour.
On arrival at the airport, once you disembark the aircraft, the journey to collect your luggage and pass through Customs can be both time consuming and involve a long stretch of walking. If your tour includes an airport to hotel transfer, the vehicles used are normally mini vans and require you to step up into the van to be seated. The designated parking area for the transfer vans can be a walk of up to 500 metres from the terminal.
To maximise all the included sightseeing and iconic attractions, each day of touring involves departure from the hotel following breakfast, visiting set attractions and local sightseeing, various meal stops and a late afternoon arrival at the hotel, at approximately 4 - 5pm. This routine is consistent over consecutive days with some free time scattered throughout the itinerary for downtime or participation in optional activities.
You must be able to embark and disembark the coach with multiple entry stairs
several times a day to included visits at attractions; photographic stops and meal breaks. Coach travel will not be longer than 2 - 2.5 hours without a comfort stop.
Additionally, each day everyone will participate in seat rotation on the coach where the location of your seat will vary from front, middle to back of the coach. Other modes of transport you will be required to board are boats, trains, helicopters (optional) and gondolas.
On a normal touring day sightseeing will vary from wandering at your own pace to structured guided tours which include walking and exploring with a guide for up to 1.5 hours and standing for extended periods.
Each included attraction will be varied in terms of the number of stairs involved and requirement to walk on uneven grounds in outdoor environments. While you may choose to opt out of certain activities, refunds are not provided for any missed inclusions.
At the end of each day a comfortable and warm hotel will await, and each hotel varies in terms of access and walking distance from reception to your individual accommodation room. Your main suitcase will be taken care of by a porter however some hotels will have stairs and long corridors to navigate. Some hotels in New Zealand still only have ‘shower over bath’ which requires the ability to step in and out safely.
It is extremely important you are transparent about any mobility limitations or medical conditions you have. This information must be advised to us via the Good to Go Form which you will complete as part of the administration of the tour booking. You must be able to self-manage your mobility or travel with a companion who can provide you with the necessary assistance or care. Your Coach Captain and / or Tour Leader cannot provide you with individual care as they have a responsibility to manage the well-being of all travellers on tour.
Other information we ask you to provide via the Good to Go Form includes:
• Emergency contact and next of kin details
• Room requests (due to limited mobility)
• Dietary and allergy advice
• Contact details
Please let us know as soon as possible if any details pertaining to your mobility or health change prior to your tour departure.
The team at GPT want all travellers to enjoy the holiday of a lifetime and it is our duty of care to ensure everyone can make an informed decision on having a suitable level of fitness to travel and participate in all elements of the touring experience.
TRAVEL AND HEALTH INSURANCE
Based on GPT’s Booking Terms and Conditions, we do not offer or arrange travel insurance on behalf of our travellers. We strongly recommend that all travellers arrange their own comprehensive travel insurance should travel arrangements change unexpectedly. Please refer to our Booking Terms and Conditions for details.
New Zealand’s public and private medical / hospital facilities provide a high standard of treatment and service. It is advised that you ensure you have adequate health insurance cover as part of your travel insurance.
It is wise to also take a copy of your travel insurance policy with you on tour to ensure all necessary details are easily accessible if required.
• www.grandpacifictours.com/terms-and-conditions
PRESCRIPTIONS AND MEDICATIONS
Pharmacists in New Zealand are only able to process a prescription that has been issued by a New Zealand doctor. Prescriptions issued in your home country cannot be processed in New Zealand.
If you need regular medication you should register with a General Practitioner in New Zealand and consult them as soon as possible as some medications may not be available in New Zealand and you may need to be prescribed an
alternative. Some medications which are available over the counter in other countries can only be issued with a prescription in New Zealand.
If you require any medication during your flight or in the airports, or on tour, remember to pack it in your hand luggage. Each medication must have a printed pharmacy label attached and it should be carried in the original containers. It is recommended that you carry a doctor’s certificate supporting the need to carry essential liquid medications in containers over 100ml in your hand luggage. Pills and capsules are not restricted under the liquid, aerosols, and gels policy therefore, to assist with the recovery of any minor illness or injury while on tour, we recommend you also travel with your own pain relief. Insect repellent and sunscreen lotion are also advisable to pack (dependent on time of travel).
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
It is your responsibility to ensure you understand and follow the airline and government regulations for travel to New Zealand.
The below popular reference sites hold the most up to date information for residents of Australia, New Zealand, UK, USA & Canada:
• Australia www.smartraveller.gov.au
• New Zealand www.safetravel.govt.nz
• United Kingdom www.gov.uk
• USA www.travel.state.gov
• Canada www.travel.gc.ca
AIRLINE POLICY AND PROCEDURES
Every airline will enforce their own set of travel protocols which must be adhered to, ensuring the wellbeing and safety of all travellers. It is important that you research the set protocols and requirements of your nominated airline prior to travel, as these can change based on government enforced requirements. GPT is not responsible if you fail to meet mandatory travel requirements and are denied boarding.
Prior to departure, you should ensure you are healthy and well to travel. Airlines encourage online check-in through mobile apps/airline website prior to arriving at the airport.
Currently all mask-wearing requirements have been removed in New Zealand however it is still important you continue to maintain healthy habits.
It doesn’t hurt to pack antibacterial wipes to clean your personal area or for use after visiting airport bathroom facilities.
Travellers from Australia who are citizens of other countries may apply for a visa or complete an NZeTA.
Please ensure all required Travel Declarations are completed before you travel.
The below reference site holds the most up to date information if you are travelling with Air New Zealand:
• Air New Zealand information hub
AIRPORT TRANSFERS
Based on GPT’s Booking Terms and Conditions, airport transfers in New Zealand are included on the first and last day of your GPT tour. This includes any pre or post tour accommodation directly linked with the tour hotel. Please refer to our Booking Terms and Conditions for details. If your flight details have changed, please ensure you contact your Travel Agent or on the day of departure, contact GPT Australia. Our transfer operators will be holding a sign with either GPT or your name displayed.
If your pre-booked transfer is missed for any reason or assistance is required when you arrive in New Zealand, contact can be made with our North Island or South Island Operations. All emergency contact numbers can be located on your tour itinerary or the Emergency Contact Card located in your ticket wallet. Depending on the situation either a replacement transfer will be arranged, or you may be required to make their own way to/from the tour hotel at your own expense.
COACH CAPTAIN AND TOUR LEADER
At the commencement of your tour, you will be introduced to your professional Crew – Coach Captain and / or Tour Leader.
The Coach Captain is responsible for driving and maintaining the coach and for providing commentary throughout the tour. The Tour Leader (or Coach Captain when Tour Leader is not allocated) is responsible for the traveller’s wellbeing and for co-ordinating all the accommodation and activities. It is important while on tour that you follow the Coach Captain and / or Tour Leader instructions.
Your Crew are provided with a set of Standard Operating Procedures and Checklists to ensure a methodical operation resulting in the continual safety of all travellers.
They are trained to react and activate further protocols should any unexpected issues arise while out on the road.
During your tour they will operate with a duty of care and monitor the hygiene etiquette of the group, reacting and advising as needed to ensure high standards are maintained. We ask that you heed their advice.
Your Crew are informed of specific details as noted in your Good to Go Form, however we also encourage you to communicate directly with any specific requirements that should be noted.
The Crew will be on-hand to oversee everyone as they are embarking and disembarking the coach.
They will do a head count prior to moving on from each stop to ensure all travellers are safely onboard.
STAYING HEALTHY ON TOUR
The most effective protection from personal contamination is ensuring strict attention to personal hygiene. Colds and other viruses can spread quickly in an enclosed area, such as a coach, you will be asked to follow hygiene practices
including the following:
• Cover your coughs and sneezes
• Wear a face mask if you are feeling unwell. Always carry one to use as required or appropriate and be prepared to top up your supply while in New Zealand (own expense)
• Wash your hands regularly
• Use the hand sanitiser located on the coach frequently, after sightseeing, prior to meals and throughout the day
• Carry an anti-bacterial hand sanitiser (in addition to using the onboard sanitiser)
• Stay hydrated
• Do not remove food from the hotel breakfast buffet for consumption throughout the day
• If required, sick disposal bags are available for you onboard the coach
• Complete a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) for peace of mind (provision and cost is your responsibility)
• Visit a medical practitioner as soon as illness is detected
• If you test positive for COVID-19 or exhibit significant symptoms, although isolation is no longer mandated by local health authorities, it is strongly recommended you isolate to minimise the spread of illness
• Remove from the coach for disposal – used tissues, sick bags, and general waste
MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
GPT are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience and encourage all travellers to follow recommended health and hygiene practices including any guidance provided by your Crew.
Key points to remember:
• Speak to your GPT Crew or NZ Operations Team who are provided with a list of Medical Centres in each town for ease of assisting you. However, they are not bound to accompany you to seek medical treatment
• You are responsible for all charges that result from visiting a medical facility or a medical practitioner visiting at the hotel or similar
• GPT is not responsible for the type or quality of the medical services you may receive
If due to any illness you decide to leave the tour to return home:
• An official form must be signed so any forward tour arrangements can be cancelled
• GPT NZ Operations Team will assist with arrangements to return home where required
• GPT can provide your Travel Agent with an Insurance Letter stating the value of any missed touring arrangements
• As per GPT’s Booking Terms and Conditions, no refund shall be made for any unused portion of any itinerary
• Retain your medical receipts as they may assist with any insurance claims you submit
• Any medical transportation required will also be at your expense. This may include, but not limited to, any vehicle and / or aircraft / helicopter service
If you are involved in an accident or experience any illness, GPT will only be in communication with your Travel Agent once you have provided authorisation.
COACH CLEANLINESS
GPT pride ourselves on the standard of our modern touring fleet. Each Coach Captain takes immense pride in the standard and presentation of their touring vehicle:
• Regularly, a Touring with Confidence DVD will be shown onboard the coach. This rotating slide presentation includes key messaging important within a group travel environment
• In keeping with good hygiene practice, the coach is cleaned regularly with antiseptic wipes or disinfectant so that the potential spread of
infection can be minimised. Hard surfaces include windows and sills, handrails, door handles, plastic seat backs, seat armrests and toilet areas. Disposable gloves are worn while cleaning
• The air conditioning systems in our coaches use a mixture of recirculating and regularly replaced fresh air so it is not the same air being recirculated all the time. Filters in the air conditioning units are cleaned regularly to ensure maximum air flow
• Selected coaches are fitted with Anti-Virus units which reduces the risk of contracting airborne contaminants
• Hand sanitiser is freely available on board for use throughout the day
• Each coach has a fridge available for storage of medications. These must be retrieved at the end of each day
• Water is available on each coach in order to stay hydrated
• Each coach has the provision of disposable sick bags if required
• Each coach has the provision of onboard Fire Extinguishers and a (basic) First Aid Kit
COACH EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROCEDURE
In the event of an emergency and you need to evacuate the coach, you will be instructed to do so by the Coach Captain and / or Tour Leader. It is important you follow the instructions that will include:
• Try to remain calm
• Leave all your belongings on the coach
• Proceed to the designated location as instructed by your Coach Captain and / or Tour Leader
• Stay together until further instructions are given by your Coach Captain and / or Tour Leader
ACCOMMODATION AND ATTRACTIONS
We are proud of the accommodation supplier partners we work with in New Zealand, all of whom take the well-being of our travellers as seriously as we do.
At each hotel, a formal Meet & Greet is conducted by Management including the awareness of Fire Drill instructions.
In the event of an evacuation during your stay at any hotel, you are asked to follow the applicable hotel’s evacuation procedures. Ensure you familiarise yourself with the evacuation location and procedures when first entering your hotel room. Each hotel should also inform you of these details and any other relevant information upon arrival. If unsure, please ask your Crew.
Understand what to expect from New Zealand’s weather, currency, immigration requirements plus all the other nitty gritty of travelling with Grand Pacific Tours (GPT). Following is a range of topics covering all the frequently asked questions, to help you feel informed and confident throughout your journey in New Zealand.
02: FAQ - Pre Tour
PASSPORT, VISA REQUIREMENTS AND TRAVELLER DECLARATIONS
All travellers require a passport to enter New Zealand. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the date that you intend to leave New Zealand.
For Australian citizens travelling on an Australian passport, you do not need a visa or permit to visit New Zealand. Visitors from visa-waiver countries must request an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) prior to travelling to New Zealand. For visitors from non-visa waiver countries, it is recommended you contact NZ Immigration for full entry requirements. If you are not an Australian Citizen or permanent resident, you may also have to pay for an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).
As a safety precaution, it is recommended that you take a copy of your passport and credit card/s if these items become lost or stolen. This will assist with reporting these items to your financial institution or police.
Travellers arriving at New Zealand international airports need to complete a digital New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD). It is free and can be completed online via mobile device by downloading the official NZTD app or via computer using the website link. You will be asked questions about your passport information, flight details, contact information (your address in New Zealand will be the first tour hotel you will be staying at), recent travel history, immigration status, biosecurity, and health risk assessments as required. The earliest you can complete a digital NZTD is 24 hours prior to the commencement of your flight to New Zealand. An email will then be sent to you with a reference number however, nothing needs to be printed.
A paper declaration form will continue to be available for a period which can be completed on arrival and must be shown to a border officer.
For the most up to date information for travellers visiting New Zealand visit:
• www.immigration.govt.nz
• www.travellerdeclaration.govt.nz
SOLO TRAVELLERS TOURS
If you are travelling on a dedicated SOLO Travellers tour, our daily seat rotation plan on the coach is designed to ensure you are getting to know all your fellow like-minded travellers. Each day you will rotate seats as an individual and enjoy the company of different travellers within the group, forging new friendships.
You are guaranteed a single room, so you can relax in the privacy of your own room for the duration of your trip. If you have a friend who would like to travel with you, there is an option to twin share together and save off the tour price (enquire at time of booking).
You can connect with fellow travellers via a free messaging app before departing and stay in touch afterwards, details will be provided prior to departure. Making new friends is a great part of travelling solo and reserved seating at all restaurants for breakfast and dinner, ensures travellers dine together.
DOCUMENTATION PACK
Please refer to our Booking Terms and Conditions for details relating to the distribution of your Documentation Pack:
• www.grandpacifictours.com/terms-and-conditions
Contents of your Documentation Pack (which can vary between touring seasons):
• Ticket Wallet Includes flight itinerary (if applicable), tour itinerary, tour questionnaire, Optional Activities Directory, touring map
• Emergency Contact Card If you need to contact GPT in an emergency, either prior to departure or when in New Zealand, you can refer to the phone numbers listed on the Emergency Contact Card. You can also view phone details on your itinerary or on our website:
• www.grandpacifictours.com/contact-us
• Luggage Tag Firmly attach your GPT branded luggage tag to the top handle
of your main suitcase and not your hand luggage. It must remain fixed for the duration of your tour to assist your Coach Captain and / or Tour Leader including hotel staff identify and manage your luggage.
• Name Badge Always wear your GPT name badge throughout the duration of your tour so you are identified as GPT travellers. If you receive your name badge prior to arrival to New Zealand, ensure you are wearing it at the airport for easy identification for our transfer operators.
• Travel Bag Every traveller is supplied with a GPT Travel Bag for personal and small items which can be carried on the coach when travelling. Please refer to our Booking Terms and Conditions for details:
• www.grandpacifictours.com/terms-and-conditions
• Merchandise Please refer to our Booking Terms and Conditions for details. Visit our website to view available merchandise items. Tour Jacket sizes are generous so please ensure you refer to the sizing chart before ordering:
• www.grandpacifictours.com/terms-and-conditions
• www.grandpacifictours.com/merchandise
CLOTHING
While on tour, dress is informal and relaxed on most occasions. Smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants. The seasons are more pronounced, and the weather is more changeable.
In summer, a jacket and sweater should be included in your luggage should the weather turn cooler, or you visit higher altitudes. You can expect some rain, so also include a light rainproof jacket or coat. If visiting during the months of May and September, pack warm winter garments and layer your clothing. You may have the option to relax and unwind in thermal hot pools so don’t forget to pack your swimwear.
If your itinerary includes a Great Journeys New Zealand rail journey i.e. TranzAlpine or Coastal Pacific, pack your headphones and download their free
App to access infotainment / commentary:
• www.greatjourneysnz.com/infotainment-app
LAUNDRY FACILITIES
You may take the opportunity to do your laundry on tour. Some hotels have a laundry room with self-service washers and dryers available to guests at specified operating times. Charges for machine use and detergents vary. If the hotel offers a laundry or dry-cleaning service, it is important to ask at reception how long it will take to get your clean laundry returned to ensure you get everything back before checking out. Higher charges apply for this type of service. Subject to change without notice.
• GPT Laundry Facilities List
AIRLINE AND AIRPORT TAXES
For flights originating in Australia, all your Australian airline and airport taxes are included in your air ticket. For all other flights originating outside of Australia, please refer to the information provided by your Travel Agent.
AIRLINE CHECK-IN
Please refer to your airline confirmation for specific information relating to your check-in procedures including airline luggage allowances. For luggage allowances while on tour, please refer to our Booking Terms and Conditions for details:
• www.grandpacifictours.com/terms-and-conditions
RESTRICTION ON LIQUIDS
Restrictions exist on the amount of liquids, aerosols and gel items that can be carried in the cabin of international flights. You can only carry liquids, aerosols or gels in your hand luggage if each container is no more than 100ml, and these containers collectively can fit comfortably into one resealable, 20cm x 20cm transparent plastic bag. It is also recommended that you pack unessential
powder-like substances in your main luggage to avoid separate screening of these items.
BIO SECURITY
You are not permitted to carry plants, fruit and some foods into New Zealand. All products, animal and plant materials must be declared or disposed of in one of the airport disposals bins. Failing to do so will result in a fine, payable before leaving the airport.
The below reference site holds the most up to date information for travellers visiting New Zealand:
• www.mpi.govt.nz
CUSTOMS AND DUTY-FREE
Certain quantities of cigarettes, tobacco and alcohol can be purchased duty free. When entering New Zealand, you need to be aware of the allowances otherwise you may find yourself liable for duty and other charges if you are over the permitted limits.
For information on customs and duty-free restrictions when returning home:
• www.customs.govt.nz
MONEY MATTERS
New Zealand’s unit of currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). All major international credit cards are accepted and provided they are encoded with a PIN, may be used to obtain cash from Automatic Teller Machines throughout New Zealand. Check with your bank whether this facility is available to you (bank charges will apply).
Many locations and attractions in New Zealand are now cashless for some purchases. Payment terminals will accept major credit cards and debit cards. Credit card surcharges may apply. However, it is also recommended that you
obtain a small amount of New Zealand currency prior to your arrival in New Zealand. We suggest a minimum of NZ $40 - $50 per day per person for incidental cash expenses such as lunch, morning and afternoon tea.
AIRLINE LOST LUGGAGE
GPT hope that your inbound flight to New Zealand is trouble-free, but on occasion, luggage gets damaged or does not arrive on the same flight as you.
While we recognise the inconvenience, all luggage carried is at your own risk, and GPT takes no responsibility for the accidental damage or loss. In the event of lost luggage by the airline, it’s your responsibility to liaise with luggage services or the airline to retrieve the luggage.
The GPT Crew and NZ Operations Team can help in providing information and assistance on the luggage retrieval process. Your airline is responsible for reuniting you with your missing luggage.
If your luggage was checked through for multiple flights, you’ll need to lodge your report with the airline that operated your final flight.
It’s important to keep your luggage receipt in a safe place as this has your luggage tag information required by the airline to locate your lost luggage. It’s also helpful to take note of the luggage brand name, the colour and dimensions and other information such as whether it’s a hard / soft shell or if it has a specific attachment or easily identifiable marks such as stickers or ribbon on the luggage handle etc.
You may be entitled to compensation by the airline or your travel insurer for items you need to buy such as clothing (t-shirt, underwear, nightwear etc.) and toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, medication etc.) Your GPT Crew can advise on where these items can be purchased.
Please ensure you keep all receipts when purchasing these items to support any claim for compensation.
Should your luggage not arrive at the first night’s accommodation (based on your tour itinerary), prior to your tour departing, luggage services or the airline will require a future delivery address so please have your forward accommodation details available – your GPT Crew can assist with this.
TIME ZONES
New Zealand is 12 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time).
In Summer, New Zealand uses ‘Daylight Saving’, with clocks put forward one hour to GMT+13. Daylight Saving begins on the last Sunday in September and ends on the first Sunday of the following April.
Time differences between New Zealand and Australian states:
• ACT / NSW / VIC / TAS 2 hours behind
• QLD 2 hours behind, 3 hours during daylight savings
• NT / SA 2.5 hours behind
• WA 4 hours behind, 5 hours during daylight savings
WEATHER
11 - 18 17 - 24 12 - 24
19 - 19 12 - 25 18 - 20
19 - 16 14 - 20 10 - 18 Christchurch 16 - 17 13 - 23 18 - 18 Dunedin 110 -15 12 - 20 18 - 16 Queenstown 15 -15 9 - 23 16 - 16
These are average minimum / maximum temperatures in Celsius only. They could vary by up to 4 - 6 degrees.
GOODS AND SERVICES TAX (GST)
All goods and services purchased in New Zealand are subject to a 15% Goods and Services Tax (GST).
ELECTRICITY
New Zealand’s electricity supply runs at 230 - 240 volts (the same as Australia). An angled 2 or 3 pin plug is used.
SMOKING LAWS
Smoking is not permitted on any coach, this includes traditional cigarettes, e-cigarettes and vaping devices. Smoking is also prohibited in any indoor spaces in New Zealand hospitality venues. This means you cannot smoke inside places such as bars, gaming venues, clubs, hotel rooms and restaurants.
CALLING HOME
There are many options available to call home, one is via a prepaid calling card that you can use from almost any touchtone phone (additional charges may apply if calling from your hotel). Prepaid calling cards are available to purchase at most convenience stores, service stations and supermarkets around New Zealand. If calling from your mobile phone, you may incur increased charges. It is recommended that you contact your telecommunications service provider for details on mobile roaming and coverage prior to your departure.
WI-FI
The Ultimate Small Group Touring and Signature Mid-Size Group Touring coaches both offer a daily allowance of free Wi-Fi. When your device identifies the browser, you will be prompted through the sign in process.
Further instructions can be provided by your Coach Captain and / or Tour Leader. The daily data allowance will provide sufficient capacity to review your emails. We do not recommend downloading photographs using this allowance and suggest using hotel Wi-Fi for this type of activity. Due to New Zealand’s terrain, connection may not be available in various locations. All hotels utilised on tour offer free Wi-Fi based on varying terms and conditions. Wi-Fi access is not available in conjunction with the Overnight Cruises at Milford or Doubtful Sound.
CELEBRATING A SPECIAL OCCASION
We’re always delighted to share in the joy of special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or personal milestones during your travels. However, please note that any personal celebration requirements including the purchase of cakes, champagne or other celebratory items, must be organised in advance by the traveller or their travel agent, and any associated costs are the responsibility of the individual.
Due to the number of milestones that may occur throughout the duration of a tour, our Crew are unable to coordinate individual recognition or organise celebratory items but happy to acknowledge the occasions made known to us.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
It is important to take your Optional Activities Directory to New Zealand. These activities are to be booked with the Coach Captain and / or Tour Leader while on tour. Payment is direct to the operator of the activity. Cancellation fees may apply so if you are feeling tired or unwell, ensure you inform your GPT Crew ahead of time.
OPTIONAL SUPA-$AVER COUPONS
Located in the Optional Activities Directory, these activities can be booked if you are spending extra independent time in the gateway city of your first or last tour night hotel. You must book and pay for each activity, directly with the tour operator. Each activity is subject to availability and once booked cancellation fees may apply.
TOUR FAREWELL
Unfortunately, your Coach Captain is generally not able to attend your farewell dinner due to restrictions on driving hours.
TIPPING AND GRATUITIES
Each Coach Captain and Tour Leader work exceptionally hard to provide all
travellers with a memorable holiday. Tipping is appreciated for extra special service and many tours arrange an envelope to be circulated for a farewell group presentation to the Coach Captain and / or Tour Leader with any contributions based on individual appreciation.
OUR NOMINATED CHARITY
GPT is an official National Awareness partner of Dementia Australia. A collection tin will be made available at your farewell dinner (selected tours only) for any loose change to be donated at your discretion.
YOUR FEEDBACK IS IMPORTANT
Included in your Documentation Pack is a Tour Questionnaire requesting you to rate your GPT tour. Once you have completed and sealed it for confidentiality, it will be collected on your last tour night by a GPT representative. If you are seeking a reply to your feedback, a personalised letter or email must be sent to GPT Australia. We do ask for your patience regarding the response time.
GUARANTEED
From the minute you leave your front door, until your safe arrival home, GPT operate an In Case of Emergency hotline to provide instant assistance, so you can rest assured you are in good hands.
While in New Zealand, your Coach Captain and / or Tour Leader in charge of the tour will have the operational assistance of our experienced New Zealand Operations Team based in Auckland and Christchurch.
An extensive Disaster Management Plan is in place to ensure any crisis is methodically managed.
All emergency contact numbers can be located on your tour itinerary or the Emergency Contact Card located in your ticket wallet or online:
• www.grandpacifictours.com/contact-us
CONTACT US
Freecall 1800 622 768 (Australia) (Business Hours)
+61 3 9372 0288 (Outside Australia) (Business Hours)
+61 407 363 592 (Emergency Contact - Australia)
+64 21 890 005 (Emergency Contact - New Zealand)
+64 27 554 6111 (Emergency Contact - New Zealand)
Postal PO Box 774, Moonee Ponds, VIC 3039 Australia
General Enquiries / Reservations reservations@gptnz.com
Tour Feedback (Business Hours) feedback@gptnz.com
Online www.gptnz.com
Facebook www.facebook.com
Instagram www.instagram.com
A response to email communication will be provided during business hours, 0900 - 1700 AEST.
REFERENCE LINKS
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs www.smarttraveller.gov.au
New Zealand Foreign Affairs and Trade www.safetravel.govt.nz
UK Foreign Travel Advice www.gov.uk
USA Travel Advice www.travel.state.gov
Canada Travel Advice www.travel.gc.ca/destinations
READ THE IMPORTANT FINE PRINT
Payment of a deposit and completion of the Good to Go Form is an acknowledgement that you have read, understood and accepted GPT’s Booking Terms and Conditions.
• www.grandpacifictours.com/terms-and-conditions
VALIDITY
All information is correct at time of publishing and subject to change without notice. Refer to the GPT website for the most up to date version:
• www.grandpacifictours.com/health-and-safety