Frequently asked questions
Is there wi-fi?
There will not be wi-fi in the vehicles you will travel in, but there will be opportunites at places we stop to use free wifi in cafes etc. Most accommodation should have wifi, but this cannot be guaranteed. If you wish to purchase a NZ SIM card for your phone, you can find details about this elsewhere in the FAQ's.
Can I drink tap water in NZ?
Yes. Except in exceptional circumstances, NZ tapwater is universally safe to drink.
How can I be contacted?
New Zealand has good mobile network coverage, but there are areas (especially hilly areas) that will not have coverage. If your phone does not work in NZ, or you do not purchase a NZ SIM (as covered elsewhere in the FAQ's), then you can be contacted through KayeTiki admin at +64 27 922 5724 or through email at info@kayetikitours.com. Accommodation names will be printed on your itinerary.
How much luggage am I allowed to bring?
Each person is allowed 1 item of standard size luggage plus a small day pack/carry bag. The maximum weight of your main bag must not exceed 23kgs, and your small carry bag must not exceed 7kg.
How much time will I spend travelling?
We try to spend as little time travelling as possible so that you have more time to enjoy the places you visit. Please remember though that driving in New Zealand takes time. On driving days between cities you will be travelling during the day, stopping off to visit places of interest where possible.
Driving rules apply in New Zealand that limits the number of days your Driver can drive before a day off must be taken. We work hard to make sure this does not affect your trip.
What is included in my tour?
The inclusions of your tour will be noted in your itinerary.
What isn't included in my tour?
Spending money, visas (if applicable), personal travel insurance (highly recommended), medical fees, cost of optional activities, entrance fees and excursions (unless specified in your tour itinerary), flights, departure taxes and any meals not specified on your tour itinerary.
Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is highly recommended. This should be taken out at the time of booking.
We recommend getting a comprehensive travel insurance policy which covers you for all medical expenses (including repatriation) and any expensive items you bring away with you such as laptops, tablets, smart phones and cameras. Check the policy wording and excess limits before you book and make sure they are to your satisfaction. Travel insurance should be taken out at the time of booking in case of unforeseen events which may lead you to cancel your trip.
How much spending money will I need?
Naturally everybody's spending varies. As a general guide we suggest budgeting around NZD$70-90 per person per day.
Throughout the trip your tour leader will also inform you of any optional activities which you may wish to participate in, for which you will need to budget extra. You will be able to find a more detailed list and price guidelines in your itinerary.
What if I am on a special diet?
If you have special dietary requirements e.g. vegetarian or vegan, we will make every effort to ensure your specific needs are catered for as long as you tell us at the time of booking. Unfortunately in some locations the variety of food is limited so we cannot guarantee availability when eating out. There are some diets we are unable to cater for such as religious diets, so if you are unsure please contact us to check.
Please re-confirm any dietary requirements with your tour leader at the start of your trip.
Do I need to advise if I have a medical condition?
Is it easy to change money?
What about my passport or visa requirements?
Do I need a conversion plug?
New Zealand operates on a 240v power supply, on a 2-3 pronged outlet. Adaptors can be purchased easily upon arrival. Bringing a powerboard is a good idea, as then you will only need one adaptor.
What do I need to pack?
Other things to pack:
Optionals to consider:
Can I buy a SIM card for my phone while I am in NZ?
The two main mobile phone networks in New Zealand are Spark and Vodafone. If you have a phone that is unlocked, you can purchase a SIM card from either of these providers. This will make it considerably cheaper than using roaming data with your home SIM card. You can compare the two networks here by looking at the following links: https://www.spark.co.nz/shop/mobile-plans/prepaid.html https://www.vodafone.co.nz/prepay/myflex/