Pre Departure Information (Day Tours)
What should we wear and take on our Day Tour
New Zealand weather is extremely changeable on some days on an hour to hour basis! As we include walks on our tours and will either be in the mountains or on the ocean it is advisable, you wear comfortable clothing suitable for being active and footwear supportive for walking with a good sole. Bring along a wind proof jacket that will keep you dry in a sharp shower and an extra layer suitable for cooler weather (which retain warmth when damp from sweat or drizzle). Guests on Hiking tours should have a rainstorm proof jacket. Most people find a hat useful.
In a day pack or bag you can carry and still use both hands the following is advised: sunscreen (high factor), sunglasses, water bottle, lip balm, camera plus extra card,
*Please note: If you think that the clothing you have with you in New Zealand is inadequate/unsuitable for your tour let us know, at least a day before departure, so we can arrange to provide you with some.
Pre Departure Information (Multi Day Tours)
What clothes should we pack?
Standard of Dress - New Zealand is a very relaxed and generally informal destination. Neat and casual clothes that are comfortable are suitable for dining out in most restaurants. Unless, you are attending a function more than one very smart/formal outfit would probably be too many!
Expect a wide range of temperatures 45-85 degrees F (spring, summer, autumn) and weather (sun, wind and rain), "4 seasons in one day", all year round if you are travelling around the South Island. New Zealand weather is extremely changeable on a day to day and on some days an hour to hour basis! As we include walks on our tours, it is advisable, you bring along a wind proof jacket, clothes suitable for cooler weather (which retain warmth when damp from sweat or drizzle) and footwear suitable for walking.
Essential (whatever time of year)
1) Footwear/socks for walking/activities -
- light weight hiking boots, sturdy trainers/sneakers or walking shoes with a good grippy sole are good. Solid hiking boots are generally excessive.
- socks (wool based) comfortable and warm if/when wet are recommended.
2) Warm and waterproof clothing to include:
- water/wind proof top or rainstorm jacket for longer hikes
- thermal first/under layer made out of polypro, silk or wool (not cotton)
- insulating layer of fleece or wool
- beannie hat/cap and gloves if hands susceptible to getting cold
- lightweight trousers (note: Jeans are not suitable for longer walks)
3) Lightweight and cool clothing to include:
- long sleeved shirt/blouse with collar
- trousers and/or shorts or 'all in ones'
- hat - wide brim if possible as the sun can be intense
- swimwear
Please note: If you think that the clothing you have with you in New Zealand is inadequate/unsuitable for your tour let us know, at least a day before departure, so we can arrange to provide you with some.
Laundry Facilities
Almost all accommodation providers in New Zealand provide laundry facilities where you can do your own washing. The better hotels have a laundry service.
What do you suggest we take with us on our trip?
Personal items and toiletries
- Passport (USA and UK citizens do not require a visa, however, your passport must be valid for at least 3 months from your return date of travel.
- Day Pack
- Sunscreen (high factor),
- Sunglasses,
- Water bottle
- Lip balm
- Electrical appliance adaptor -(the current in New Zealand is 230/240 volts and you will require a two pin adaptor}
- Camera, extra card, charger and batteries.( If you were thinking of buying a new camera DO IT before this trip!)
- Binoculars although our vehicles generally carry them
- Notebook or diary
Warning!
Do not buy duty free liquids in quantities over 100 ml (inc cosmetics and alcohol) in your departure airport if you are in transit/changing planes at another international airport. You will be subject to baggage checks and restrictions and even sealed goods will be conviscated Note: there are duty free shops in New Zealand airports as you enter the country.
New Zealand is extremely strict with regards to importation of food stuffs and contaminates to the environment. A fine of $400 WILL be imposed if you are caught with anything of this nature on your person as you enter the country. NZ immigration accepts no excuses.
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