FAQs

Questions about travelling to New Zealand

When is the best time to visit New Zealand?

New Zealand’s seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere, summer months are December to February and winter months are June to September.  

While there are four distinct seasons, there is no wet or dry season and rainfall is generally evenly spread throughout the year. Summer days are generally warm and pleasant, with plenty of sunshine, and activities in and around the water are popular. During winter months there is snow on the mountains and excellent skiing opportunities in alpine areas, however, away from the mountains, temperatures are generally mild and do not fall below freezing. 

Do I need any vaccinations?

How much luggage can I bring?

Do I need to bring a hairdryer?

What is the smoking policy in New Zealand?

What are the Passport and Visa requirements?

Visitors to New Zealand require a passport which must be valid for at least three months beyond the date the visitor intends leaving New Zealand. Some travellers may also require visas. 

Some visitors must have a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) and pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy before travelling to New Zealand.  
For more information about visitor regulations, visa exemptions and visa waivers visit www.immigration.govt.nz 

Traveller Declaration

What to pack?

Can I use my appliances from home in New Zealand?

Is tipping expected in New Zealand?

Touring Questions

What is included in the tour?

• Your tour includes all your New Zealand land travel, plus the care and attention of your driver guide. If other transportation is mentioned in the itinerary (such as a ferry crossing or train journey) this is included in the price of your tour. Domestic airfare is included in tours that mention a flight within New Zealand
• Breakfast is included every morning, as are any special meals mentioned in the daily itinerary.
• All activities and entrance fees for everything explicitly outlined in the itinerary are covered. For specific inclusions on each tour, check the “Featured Experiences” tab on the tour page. 
• The tour price includes the New Zealand Sales Tax (Goods and Services Tax of 15%). 
• International air fares are not included.

How often do we stop while travelling?

Are Airport transfers included?

Do the hotels have Wi-Fi?

What meals are included?

What about alcoholic beverages?

How do the Your Choice options work?

How active are your tours?

Will all travellers in my group be on the same tour from start to finish?

What type of coaches do we travel on?

Pure Discoveries® utilises small, agile motor coaches, granting us the flexibility to explore locations typically inaccessible to larger touring vehicles. Our purpose-built small coaches prioritise safety and comfort, boasting features such as reclining seats equipped with seat belts, adjustable footrests, USB charging ports, and movable armrests. With well-spaced seating arrangements, passengers enjoy ample legroom, while individual adjustable air-conditioning vents ensure personalised comfort throughout the journey.   

Throughout your tour, our knowledgeable driver/host provides insightful local commentaries delivered clearly over the PA System, complemented by our proprietary GPS commentary system. As you traverse local highways and byways, our large tinted panoramic windows offer unparalleled viewing opportunities, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the scenic beauty of each destination.

What about seating in the coach?

What kind of accommodation do we stay in?

Are there laundries at the hotels we stay in?

What about special dietary requirements?

Where do I need to be to meet my driver guide?

Are there any Optional Activities we can take part in?

Will I have time on my own?

Booking & Payment Questions

What currency are the tour prices?

Tour prices are quoted in New Zealand dollars (NZD) and they include our local sales tax (Goods & Services Tax) of 15%. 

How far in advance should I book?

Do I need travel insurance?

When do I pay for my tour?

What happens if I have to cancel?

What are your booking terms and conditions?

Please see a full list of our Booking Terms and Conditions here: https://purediscoveries.co.nz/terms-conditions/  

Can Pure Discoveries® help with flights and other travel arrangements?

How should I book a tour?

When will I receive my tour documents?

Understanding our tour groups

How many people will be on my tour?

We limit our group size to 16 individuals, which we believe is the ideal number for exploring hidden gems off the beaten track and fostering strong connections among participants. This size allows for an intimate experience where you can get to know everyone well. You’ll have the chance to make new friends and enjoy fellow travellers from various parts of the globe. 

Do I need to be physically fit to travel on your tours?

Who will the guide be?

How old are travellers on your tours?

Our tours in the past have attracted participants spanning from 35 to 85 years old, with the majority typically in their 60s. However, we prioritise attitude over age! We firmly believe that a positive mindset and an adventurous spirit are paramount on our journeys. 

While we welcome individuals of all ages who share our outlook, we do not actively promote bookings from those under 30 years old. Additionally, we have an age policy where children under the age of 18 are not permitted to join our tours.

What if I am travelling alone?

Do you accept children on your tours?