Frequently Asked Questions - Guided Group Tours New Zealand

We often get asked similar questions from our valued clients relating to making a booking and travelling with our operational partner Grand Pacific Tours.

We have compiled a list of these frequently asked questions here and into a one-stop-shop Guidebook to assist you with a menu of topics.

Documenation Pack
Opional Activities
Pre and Post Tour Accommodation
Merchandise
Touring with Confidence Guidebook

Documentation

Award-winning Documentation Inclusions

Grand Pacific Tours offer travellers one of the most comprehensive documentation packs in the travel industry.

We have won several awards from our Travel Agent partners who continually advise us that our documentation packs are the best in the industry.
Each traveller receives a durable travel bag, luggage tag, personal name badge and ticket wallet which includes a tour itinerary and questionnaire, Optional Activities directory, map and an emergency contact card.
The Ultimate Pack is made of a higher quality fabric than the Signature Pack, and both provide a lasting memento of your tour with us.
Note: Contents of the Documentation Pack can vary each season.

Optional Activities

Anyone for a Helicopter Flight?

Whilst your tour package includes an extensive range of pre-paid attractions and sightseeing, Optional Activities are available to enjoy during your free time. They will provide the ‘icing on the cake’ experience that will hold memories for a lifetime.

You may wish to enjoy the thrill of a jet boat in scenic Queenstown, take a flight over the captivating Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers or experience a scenic helicopter flight over the crystal-clear turquoise waters in the Bay of Islands, just to name a few.
A copy of the Optional Activities Directory will be enclosed in your Ticket Wallet as part of your Documentation Pack. It is important to take the directory on tour with you.
Optional Activities will be booked with your Crew once on tour.

Pre and Post Tour Accommodation

Want to stay a little longer in New Zealand?

Grand Pacific Tours offers pre and post tour accommodation so you have the option to extend your stay and explore the sights further or take a day to relax before or after your tour.

For pre and post tour accommodation, Hotel check-in time is approximately 3pm and check-out time is approximately 10am.
If early hotel check-in or late check-out is required due to flight schedules, additional accommodation will need to be purchased.
The rates quoted are only valid for one night, room only and subject to availability. Any additional meals will need to be ordered and purchased directly with the hotels, Bed and Breakfast rates cannot be provided.
Additional nights are subject to availability and may be charged at the prevailing rate by the hotel.
GPT arrival and departure airport transfers are only provided if pre and post tour accommodation is at the designated tour hotel.
Please refer to the itinerary pages on the website for the Pre & Post Tour Accommodation locations and rates.

GPT Merchandise

Travel in Style

Make sure you feel part of the tour group when you travel with Grand Pacific Tours by wearing a tour branded jacket and cap. Both products offer great value and will be a memento of their holiday for years to come. Merchandise will not be sold once on tour or after travellers return home.

TOUR CAP

Black wool blend cap with pre curved peak, 6 panel structure with fabric Velcro strap and embroidered logos. One size.

TOUR JACKET

Unisex black water-resistant shell jacket with embroidered logos, silver reflective piping, fleece lined collar, hood, inside mesh lining, adjustable Velcro cuff, front pockets and inside mobile phone pocket. Compact, lightweight, ideal for touring. Available in sizes XXS to XXXXL.
The jacket sizes are considerably generous, so your normal size will not apply. We recommend you view the sizing chart below for accurate measurements before ordering your jacket.

CONDITIONS

All purchases must be made at the time of booking and rate applicable is quoted in New Zealand Dollars.
Payment for all merchandise is due with final tour payment prior to departure.
Tour Documentation including any merchandise will be made available for collection at the first night’s tour accommodation based on the tour itinerary.
Merchandise will not be sold once on tour or after travellers return home.
No exchanges possible. The merchandise size chart (below) is based on Australian/New Zealand sizes.

NZD PRICES – 2026/27 TOURING SEASON (1 Sep 2026 – 31 May 2027)

Tour Jacket – NZD 105.00
Tour Cap – NZD 40.00
Tour Jacket & Cap – NZD 130.00 (Save NZD 15.00)

Touring with Confidence

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 a detailed approach to n awesome New Zealand Tour experience, so you can travel with and be assured that your well-being is our number one priority.

The following is a range of topics covering all the frequently asked questions, to ensure you tour New Zealand with confidence.

We want you to feel comfortable and confident when touring with GPT.

Touring with Confidence - Pre Tour

Touring with Confidence – Pre Tour Information

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). The following is a range of topics covering all the frequently asked questions, to ensure you tour New Zealand with confidence.

Fitness to Travel / Good to Go Form

Travellers must be 18 years of age or over to tour with GPT. Every traveller is asked to complete a Good to Go Form as part of the administration of the tour booking. The form will be emailed to the nominated email address 120 days prior to the tour departure date for completion.

All travellers must be transparent about any mobility limitations or medical conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable touring experience for everyone. If health, mobility or fitness change prior to tour departure, this information must be reported to GPT as soon as possible.

The Coach Captain and / or Tour Leader on tour have a responsibility to manage the well-being of all travellers and cannot provide individual assistance. All travellers must be able to self-manage their mobility or if they require personal assistance or care (such as pushing a wheelchair, assistance with dressing or walking), they must travel with a companion capable of providing the required assistance or care.

Travelling with a collapsible wheelchair/mobility scooter is subject to availability at the time of booking as each tour only has the capacity to cater for one wheelchair/mobility scooter traveller – conditions apply.

It is important that the traveller makes an informed decision on having a suitable level of fitness to travel and participate in all elements of the touring experience; and chooses the right tour to avoid disappointment.

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.

The below reference sites hold the most up to date information for travellers visiting New Zealand:

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, please visit the applicable website.

Documentation Pack

Please refer to our Booking Terms and Conditions for details relating to the distribution of your Documentation Pack.

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.

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.

Dietary Requests

GPT limit special dietary requests to Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten Free, Lactose Free, Diabetic and any life-threatening allergies (whereby the traveller carries an EpiPen). These requests will be forwarded to the hotel and/or attraction suppliers but cannot be guaranteed and do not constitute a term of the traveller’s contract with us. Tour meal options may be limited.

As a volume group tour operator, contracting specific menus which range from Buffet to A-la-carte, the logistics of arranging meals meeting the correct criteria over an extended touring itinerary can be challenging and cannot be guaranteed to meet the expectations of the traveller(s). Therefore, religious dietary requests (Hindu Vegetarian, Kosher, Halal) cannot be accommodated.

Any further intolerances needing to be managed are the responsibility of the traveller. Airlines have restricted dietary conditions which vary, all requests should be discussed with the Travel Agent at the time of booking.

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.

The below reference site holds the most up to date information:

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.

Download the Laundry Facilities available at all tour hotels (subject to change without notice).

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.

Validity

All information is subject to change without notice.

Touring with Confidence - On Tour

Touring with Confidence – On Tour

The team at Grand Pacific Tours (GPT) look forward to providing you a New Zealand holiday experience of a lifetime. You can relax in the comfort of knowing that you will be looked after on tour from start to finish and the professional crew will be on hand to answer key questions along the way.

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.

Luggage Limits

Each traveller is entitled to travel with ONE suitcase on tour measuring (length + width + depth) no more than 155cm (61”). Ultimate Small Group Touring travellers may bring up to TWO suitcases if airline ticket permits.

Weight limits also apply to luggage due to Occupational Health and Safety issues. The maximum suitcase weight allowed is 23kg (50lbs). If a traveller brings more than the allocated limit of luggage, any additional arrangements made to get their luggage to the final destination, will be at their own expense. Oversized or overweight luggage may be refused to be carried by coach companies.

Each traveller is supplied with a GPT Travel Bag for personal and small items which can be carried on the coach when travelling. The travel bag is designed to carry a maximum of 6kg (13lbs). Due to limited space on board the coach, please ensure carry-on bags are approximately (length + width + depth) 81cm (32”) with a maximum weight restriction of 6kg (13lbs).

All luggage carried is entirely at the traveller’s risk, GPT takes no responsibility for accidental damage or loss. In the event of lost luggage by the airline, it is the traveller’s responsibility to liaise with the airline / airport to retrieve the luggage, the Coach Captain and / or Tour Leader can assist in providing information on the process.

Goods and Services Tax (GST)

All goods and services purchased in New Zealand are subject to a 15% Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Coach Seat Rotation

For the enjoyment and fairness of all travellers, GPT operates a daily seat rotation system which all travellers must participate in as a condition of booking. There is no exception to this policy and special consideration for an individual’s specific needs cannot be accommodated. The coach seat plan is displayed inside the coach.

On the Ultimate Small Group Touring coach, the configuration of the coach seating is an individual seat on the left side of the aisle and an individual seat on the right side, all with panoramic viewing. All travellers will rotate between seats and enjoy the luxury of Business Class style comfort. For two people travelling together, they will always rotate together to be seated in the same seat row.

On the Signature Mid-Size Group Touring coach, the configuration of the coach seating is two seats on the left side of the aisle and an individual seat on the right side, all with panoramic viewing. All travellers will rotate and enjoy the variety of armchair comfort in the dual seats but also will experience the same Premium Economy Comfort on other days in a spacious individual window seat. For two people travelling together, the individual seats will flow in front and behind each other.

For single travellers you will rotate between an individual seat and dual seats with another traveller, paying the Single Supplement is a cost related to the hotel accommodation only.

Coach Wi-Fi Access

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.

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.

Wine Time

GPT promote Wine Time (discounted drinks) as an initiative for travellers to gather and socialise at a designated time prior to dinner on selected days of the itinerary when dinner is included at the hotel. The discounted beverage price is at the hotels’ discretion and subject to change at any time. Travellers must wear a GPT branded name badge to be identified by bar staff. Participation by travellers in Wine Time is not compulsory. GPT strongly encourages responsible drinking.

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.

Electricity

New Zealand’s electricity supply runs at 230 – 240 volts (the same as Australia). An angled 2 or 3 pin plug is used.

Weather

New Zealand’s climate varies from the North Island to the South Island, however, most of the country lies close to the coast, which means mild temperatures year-round.

The average New Zealand temperature decreases as you travel south. January and February are the warmest months, and July is the coldest month of the year.

To learn more about New Zealand weather visit www.metservice.co.nz

Lost Property

GPT takes no responsibility for the retrieval of lost or misplaced property. All costs associated in the retrieval of lost or misplaced property is at the traveller’s expense.

Tipping and Gratuities

As 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.

Tour Farewell

Unfortunately, your Coach Captain is generally not able to attend your farewell dinner due to restrictions on driving hours.

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.

Validity

All information is subject to change without notice.

Touring with Confidence - Health & Safety

Touring with Confidence – Health and Safety

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.

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 60-80 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.

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/foreign-travel-advice/new-zealand/entry-requirements
USA www.travel.state.gov
Canada travel.gc.ca/destinations/new-zealand

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.

Coach Seat Belts

Under New Zealand law, seatbelts must be always fastened while the coach is in motion. GPT or the coach supplier will not be liable for any injury, illness, death or damage claims arising from an accident or incident arising from a situation where the traveller was not wearing a seatbelt as instructed.

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.

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.

24/7 Support is 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.

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.

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. More information

Validity

All information is subject to change without notice.

Booking Terms & Conditions

Booking Terms and Conditions

Once a deposit is paid for your tour it indicates that you are aware of and understand all the provisions outlined in the tour Booking Terms and Conditions, making you a smarter and more informed customer.

In most cases the booking terms and conditions just allow the company to provide more extended information on various criteria which allows you to make more informed decision on whether expectations will be met on tour if situations arise.

Touring Disclaimer

The tours consist of a mix of travellers that reside in New Zealand, Australia, UK, USA, Canada and other countries.

Guaranteed Departures: Since GPT began operating, the company has been highly regarded for the promotion of guaranteed departure dates. At any stage if tourism in or to New Zealand is affected by any event or circumstances beyond our control, this could affect the running of individual tours.

Border Closures: The future of border closures as we experienced throughout the COVID-19 pandemic is unknown. If due to border closures the tour is suspended prior to travel, a credit for a future tour will be provided. If a traveller chooses to cancel their booking, cancellation fees will apply. If the tour is suspended while in New Zealand, GPT will manage all arrangements to redivert the itinerary.

Any unused portion of the itinerary will be refunded at the nett amount contracted by GPT (not the retail amount), unless required itinerary changes incur additional charges out of GPT’s control. Any unexpected additional costs incurred during a disrupt will be the traveller’s responsibility (such as extra nights’ accommodation and meals).

If the borders close for a period leading into your planned return flight and you cannot depart as planned, GPT can assist with securing accommodation for an extended stay, however, GPT is not responsible for any charges related to an unplanned extension due to border closures. In this instance, the party responsible for booking the return flight i.e., GPT or the Travel Agent is required to assist with making alternative flight arrangements. Any costs associated with flight changes is the traveller’s responsibility.

If the traveller decides to leave the tour to return home, based on inclination that a border may close, refunds on any unused portion of the itinerary will only be available from the date of the official notification of a pending border closure and not from the date the traveller has departed the tour.

Itineraries: GPT has compiled the content of all tour itineraries based on the knowledge that all accommodation and attraction suppliers will be operational within the relevant touring season. Prior to the tour commencing, or while on tour, for reasons beyond our control (i.e. seasonality, public holidays, festivals, weather), an itinerary could be interrupted, and content altered and GPT will aim to provide a similar touring experience, noting that some unique inclusions may not be available.

First and Last Tour Day: The first and last day of most structured tour itineraries is considered a travelling day and therefore may not necessarily be a touring day. Dinner is not included for any traveller arriving at the hotel later than 8pm on Day 1.

For tours commencing 01 September 2026, breakfast is not included for any traveller departing the hotel prior to the restaurant opening for service on the last day of tour.

If for any reason a published tour inclusion cannot be facilitated or replaced, a refund based on GPT’s negotiated pricing (not retail pricing) will be provided.

Fitness to Travel / Good to Go Form

Dietary Requests

Room Requests

Ground Floor Room or Room Near Lift: Not all hotels can provide a ground floor room or room near lift. Allocation of this room type can only be requested with each hotel and not confirmed prior to travel.

Room with Walk-In Shower: Not all hotels can provide a room with a walk-in-shower. Allocation of this room type can only be requested with each hotel and not confirmed prior to travel.

Accessible Room: An accessible room is designed to cater to the unique needs of individuals with disabilities, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive stay. Key features of accessible rooms include wider doorways, grab bars in bathrooms and lower furniture set ups.

Allocation of this room type can only be requested at each hotel due to the limited number of accessible rooms at each hotel. GPT will endeavour to confirm an accessible room in advance; however, accessible rooms are subject to availability and not always allocated in the room type advertised and may be located away from the group. These rooms often contain one double bed; a rollaway bed may be used if a Twin Share room type is elected. Accessible rooms are not available on the Milford Mariner or Fiordland Navigator overnight cruises.

GPT makes reasonable effort to accommodate the needs of travellers with specific disabilities however, it is not responsible for any denial of services by any third party or independent suppliers or for any additional expenses charged by those parties.

Interislander Ferry, Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine Rail Journeys

Interislander ferry: Interislander Cook Strait Ferries manage the Rescheduling Timetable and scheduled Maintenance Days for the various vessels used to connect the North and South Islands of New Zealand. If a ferry crossing is changed on a specific date affecting our advertised tour inclusions, this is beyond the control of GPT.

Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine Rail Journeys: Great Journeys New Zealand manage the Seasonal Timetable and scheduled Maintenance Days for both the Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine rail journeys. If a rail journey is not scheduled to run on a specific date affecting our advertised tour inclusions, this is beyond the control of GPT.

Overnight Cruises - Milford Mariner and Fiordland Navigator

Overnight Cruises – Milford Mariner and Fiordland Navigator

There are stairs to the cabin and dining area. Travellers are required to be physically able to climb stairs on their own or with the assistance of their travelling companion. A mainland option is available which must be requested at time of booking and is subject to availability with no price reduction. Bedding types are limited, we are unable to guarantee preferred bedding. Wi-Fi access not available.

Optional Activities

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. GPT does not operate these activities, as such no person employed or associated with GPT has any connection with the operators of these activities.

GPT cannot and do not take any responsibility for any injury, action, loss, or damage of any type, arising in any manner from these activities. Optional Activities are subject to availability, once booked cancellation fees may apply.

Travellers who choose to pre book activities directly with the operator, do so at their own discretion. In this instance, should the touring itinerary change due to unforeseen circumstances, GPT are not responsible for any amendments or cancellations made with the operator of the activity, including any applicable fees that may be incurred to the traveller.

Documentation

Travellers residing in Australia: Tour Documentation including any merchandise will be forwarded approximately two weeks prior to departure. Travellers are to contact the Travel Agent if Tour Documentation and any merchandise has not been received. These items will not be available once travellers depart Australia.

Travellers residing outside of Australia: A personalised itinerary will be emailed. In addition, Tour Documentation including any merchandise will be made available for collection at the first night’s accommodation based on the tour itinerary. Any unwanted items are to be returned to the GPT Representative on the first morning of touring. Travellers are to contact GPT if Tour Documentation and any merchandise has not been received.

GPT cannot accommodate early requests for Tour Documentation.

Contents within the Tour Documentation Pack can vary between touring seasons.

Merchandise

Travellers residing in Australia: All prices are inclusive of GST and postage with documentation. All orders must be made with the Travel Agent at time of booking. Payment for all merchandise is due with final tour payment prior to departure. Merchandise will only be forwarded to the Travel Agent with Tour Documentation approximately two weeks prior to departure. Exchanges can be made on unused merchandise, an additional AUD$15 fee (per jacket) will be charged to cover delivery, postage and handling. It is recommended that you do this as soon as possible due to delivery timeframes. Merchandise will not be sold on tour or after travellers return home.

Travellers residing outside of Australia: All prices are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD) and orders must be made at the time of booking via the Travel Agent who will also collect payment as part of the tour invoice. GPT cannot facilitate direct merchandise sales via a credit card payment. Merchandise will be made available for collection at the first night’s accommodation based on the tour itinerary. No exchanges are possible. Merchandise will not be sold on tour or after travellers return home.

Prices

All holiday prices are based on schedules, fares and tariffs current at the time of publishing. GPT reserves the right to vary the cost of tours, if necessary, by reason of currency fluctuation, or component cost increase. Tour cost will be guaranteed at the price prevailing at the date of final payment. In the case of technology malfunction or human error, we reserve the right to re-invoice the Travel Agent with correct billing in accordance with our published rates.

Surcharge

A surcharge can apply to a departure date over the Festive Season that incurs increased costs due to either public holiday surcharges or itinerary content alterations. Affected departure dates will be denoted wherever dates / pricing is showcased.

Refund

No refund is applicable for any unused portion of any itinerary. Any alteration to the holiday outside the touring itinerary, made by a traveller shall be wholly at the expense of the traveller.

Deposit and Payment

Payment of a deposit and completion of the Good to Go Form is an acknowledgment that the traveller has read, understood and accepted the Booking Terms and Conditions. It also acts as a warranty that the traveller is reasonably healthy and / or fit to participate in the tour and indemnifies GPT from all actions, claims and demands arising out of any want of health and fitness.

All tours are prepaid to New Zealand hotels, services and attractions.

A non-refundable deposit of 20% per person is required for all Signature Mid-Size Group Touring, selected Special Interest Group Touring and Ultimate Small Group Touring within 7 days of booking. Deposits may be required by some suppliers in order to secure requested services

The balance of payment, including any merchandise, is due 70 days prior to departure. Once the tour has been booked and confirmed, cancellation fees will apply as per the Booking Terms and Conditions/Cancellation.

You can elect to make payment directly into our NZD bank accounts. We also hold accounts for payments in EUR, USD, GBP, AUD. The conversion of New Zealand Dollars into foreign currencies shall be made on the date of the booking confirmation.

Please note that failure to make the payment on the due date may result in the tour arrangements being cancelled. We withhold the right to cancel any bookings that have not been paid on time.

Cancellations / Transfer of Booking

While we understand that cancellations may at times be unavoidable, we highly recommend our clients purchase adequate travel insurance to cover for this. You may cancel or amend your tour for any reason at any time, however please bear in mind our cancellation and amendment costs – and other enquiries may be rejected by us to secure your booking. For that reason there is a cancellation fee.

In the event that a traveller cancels off a tour, the following fees apply prior to departure:

Cancellation 91 days before travelling – 20% of the total value of booking
Cancellation 90 – 36 days before travelling – 25 % of the total value of booking
Cancellation 35 – 22 days before travelling – 50 % of the total value of booking
Cancellation 21 – 8 days before travelling – 75 % of the total value of booking
Cancellation 7 days before travelling /no show – 100 % of the total value of booking

Notice of cancellation must be made in writing and acknowledged as having been received. If a cancellation is made on a weekend or public holiday the next working day will be counted as commencement of cancellation. Cancellations are liable for costs as per the above schedule, unless the same number of cancelled customers are substituted with other customers or other cancellation policies have been confirmed in writing.

Force Majeure

Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions we regret that we cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance of our contractual obligations is prevented or affected by reason of circumstances amounting to ‘force majeure’.

In these booking conditions, ‘force majeure’ means any event which we or the supplier of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid.

Such events may include war or threat of war, riots, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, nuclear or natural disaster (including but not limited to flooding, fire, earthquake, landslide, road closures), adverse weather conditions, government action including border closures, national emergency, epidemic, pandemic and all similar events outside our control.

Should a tour be suspended for any reason out of GPT’s control, an Administration Fee may be charged to cover irrecoverable costs.

Responsibilities of Service

GPT advises that the service it provides is for the booking and packaging of goods and services provided by other operators such as hotels, attractions, cruise vessels and transportation companies. Travellers are advised to familiarise themselves with the terms and conditions on which these services are supplied. GPT take no responsibility and will be excluded from liability for any loss, damage, omission, or acts being negligent or otherwise, committed by these operators used in connection with the tours.

Variation

GPT reserves the right to cancel or to vary the content of its tours including the replacement of the Ultimate and Signature coaches should the need arise under extenuating circumstances out of our control. Due to the limited number of Ultimate and Signature coaches available, any compensation will be assessed on a case-by-case basis but not guaranteed.

Privacy of Data

Use of any personal data from travellers provided to GPT as part of the booking process is governed by the GPT Privacy Policy. By providing personal information to GPT, the traveller consents to GPT collecting, holding, using and disclosing personal information as detailed in the GPT Privacy Policy.

The traveller agrees that in certain circumstances, GPT are permitted to disclose personal information to overseas recipients in connection with the booking committed by the operators of airlines, hotels, attractions, cruise vessels and transportation companies used in connection with the tours. The supplier may also have their own privacy policy that covers how they handle personal information. Contact can be made by the traveller directly with the supplier, for information on the supplier’s privacy policy.

GPT do not keep a record of any credit card or bank account details of their travellers.

Personal information provided on the digital Good to Go form will be removed from GPT’s database two months after the start of the traveller’s tour.

Validity

All information is subject to change without notice.

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