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New Zealand is a very active body of land, geologically, as fault lines run the length of the islands. Along the South Island stretch the Southern Alps that divide the country and run northeast to southwest. In the north, small mountains hit the sea creating a wonderful area to explore. As you go south where the temperature is colder large glaciers have formed in the highest parts of the alps and as the range stretches down to the southern tip of the island it disappears into the sea. Towering fjords in Fiordland National Park dive straight into the ocean for a dramatic rainforest landscape. With all types of adventure activity opportunities throughout, travelers can have a hard to narrowing it down! Explore itinerary options below and let us Thrive together!
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ITINERARIESTHE EXPLORER
THE WESTLAND THE DRAMATIC THE REMOTE |
THE EXPLORER
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8 Days / 7 Nights
Starting in Nelson or Christchurch & ending in Christchurch Add an extra day to start in Christchurch General New Zealand travel FAQ's at bottom of page |
ADVENTURE HIGHLIGHTS
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A pristine coastal wilderness fused with the stunning views and wildlife of a sleepy, charismatic surfside town.
Grand estuaries with a wealth of wildlife, fern-covered bluffs, and 15ft tidal swells are the daily experience in stunning Abel Tasman National Park. Kayaks bring you into sunlit tide pools and close to seal colonies with pups splashing and learning to swim. Experience one of New Zealand's famous wilderness huts, this one being beachside, and explore the intriguing natural waterslide, estuaries, secluded beaches, and epic views on foot.
The gorgeous, sleepy surfside town of Kaikoura is a rare place where a deep ocean shelf comes close enough to shore for large animals like dolphins and orca to play. The area boasts breathtaking views and authentic souvenir shopping, as well as one of a kind experience options like the dolphin encounter. Equipped with a buoyant wetsuit and snorkel, a catamaran will take you out for a swim with hundreds of wild, playful dusky dolphins. Travelers routinely comment that this is an experience of a lifetime.
The gorgeous, sleepy surfside town of Kaikoura is a rare place where a deep ocean shelf comes close enough to shore for large animals like dolphins and orca to play. The area boasts breathtaking views and authentic souvenir shopping, as well as one of a kind experience options like the dolphin encounter. Equipped with a buoyant wetsuit and snorkel, a catamaran will take you out for a swim with hundreds of wild, playful dusky dolphins. Travelers routinely comment that this is an experience of a lifetime.
ADVENTURE INCLUDES
NOT INCLUDED: International Flights, extra nights before or after trip.
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ITINERARY:
Day 1: Arrive and Acquaint
Check into your accommodation and freshen up, but don’t nap and allow jet lag to sink in. Walk along the river and meet for our first dinner together.
Day 2: Beach - Tidal drive to Marahau - Dinner on the estuary/ocean
Start the day with a hearty breakfast and time to explore the beach. Then, take a leisurely drive to Marahau, the mouth of Abel Tasman National Park. Stop at a winery or two and enjoy the tide pools. The beach at Kaiteriteri is fantastic, complete with views of Split Apple Rock. Adrenaline junkies may want to stop at Skydive Abel Tasman in Motueka. End the day with a beautiful dinner and watch the tide in Sandy Bay rise and fall by 15 feet, covering and revealing an abundance of sea and bird life.
Day 3: Abel Tasman Remote Coast Ocean Kayak Adventure - Anchorage Bay
Water taxi into this pristine coastal paradise with kayaks and gear. As the tide rises and fills the estuaries, spend the day exploring sunlit lagoons and exploring the coast. Circle the New Zealand fur seal colony at Tonga Island and enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach. Lock the boats together and harness the wind with a sail towards Anchorage Bay where your wilderness hut awaits. Enjoy a slice of the wilderness with amenities like flush toilets, bunk beds, and potable water to make things easy.
Day 4: Beach Time - Cleopatra’s Falls - Torrent Bay Estuary - Pitt Head Lookout - Te Pukatea Bay
Short hikes will bring us to Cleopatra's Pool, Pitt Head Lookout, and secluded Te Pukatea Bay. Crossing the Torrent Bay estuary at low tide is also a highlight in this area.
Day 5: Abel Tasman Coastal Track
Hike the famous Abel Tasman Coastal Track back to civilization: one of the most popular hikes in all of New Zealand. Once you're on it, you'll see why. Fern trees and lush vegetation on the trail give way to spectacular coastal views.
Day 6: East Coast - Pelorus Bridge - Cullen Point - Ohau Falls & Seal Colony - Kaikoura
Drive the scenic east coast to Kaikoura, stopping along the way at Pelorous Bridge for a quick dip in the river. Continue on to see the New Zealand Fur Seal colony at Ohau Point and follow the stream to Ohau Falls learning how the seal pups use the tide pools and the stream as they learn to swim. Visit the quirky art gallery at the top of the hill with views of Kaikoura Penninsula and the Kaikoura Mountain Range.
Day 7: Dolphin Encounter - Peninsula Walkway
Outfitted with a buoyant wetsuit, fins, and snorkeling gear, ride a catamaran to find pods of 300-600 wild dusky dolphins. Jump in, swim, and be amazed as hundreds of these friendly, intelligent creatures swim and play around you. If you are not a swimmer, you will still have a great view and find this a highly memorable experience. In the afternoon, explore the rocks exposed at low tide on the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway and observe seabirds and seals in their natural habitat. Then, make the short climb to views of the coast with the Kaikoura mountain range as a backdrop.
Day 8: DEPARTURES & EXTENSIONS
Fly from Christchurch airport and arrive in the US the same day, crossing back over the International Date Line.
THE EXPLORER GALLERY
All pictures taken by Thrive Adventures Guides and Travelers
Click or touch to view full size pictures in gallery
Click or touch to view full size pictures in gallery
TITLE
SHORT DESCRIPTION
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Days / Nights
Starting in Christchurch & Ending in Queenstown General New Zealand travel FAQ's at bottom of page |
ADVENTURE HIGHLIGHTS
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FIXED DEPARTURES |
REGISTERCost: $ ($ USD Deposit + 2 Payments of $)
Or, pay in full for $ |
FULL DESCRIPTION
ITINERARY
TITLE GALLERY
All pictures taken by Thrive Adventures Guides and Travelers
Click or touch to view full size pictures in gallery
Click or touch to view full size pictures in gallery
THE WESTLAND
Where oceans, mountains, glaciers and rainforest collide.
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9 Days / 8 Nights
Starting in Christchurch & Ending in Queenstown General New Zealand travel FAQ's at bottom of page |
ADVENTURE HIGHLIGHTS
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Explore the lush, mountainous and remote west coast of the south island with it’s beaches, river valleys, rainforests, mountains, and glaciers. Cross the mountains and settle at an alpine lake for a total change of scenery.
ADVENTURE INCLUDES
NOT INCLUDED: International Flights, extra nights before or after trip, 2 lunches on free days 4 & 5
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TRIP PACE
Pace 3 - Several Destinations, average time in each location: 2-3 days.
ACTIVITY RATING
Activity Rating 3 - Activities of mild-moderate intensity, average level of fitness required.
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MAP |
ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive and Acquaint
Check into your accommodation and freshen up, but don’t nap and allow jet lag to sink in. Walk the city’s waterfront and meet for our first dinner together.
Day 2: Arthur's Pass to Punakaiki
Cross the mountains to the sea stopping for short walks through the boulder fields at Kura Tawhiti and to Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall, finally arriving in Punakaiki. This oceanside location is very remote. A total of 2 restaurants and a cafe really give you an idea of the lack of traffic.
Day 3: Paparoa National Forest-Porari River Kayak-Truman Track
The west coast of the South Island is where the mountains meet the sea. Clouds dump their precipitation to jump the Southern Alps creating a lush moss-covered forest with jurassic looking ferns and nikau palms. Punakaiki, a remote location right on the ocean, is home to the signature Pancake Rocks, and the short and long hikes throughout the Paparoa National Park reveal an authentic New Zealand most travelers skip. A short kayaking trip on the Porarai River will diversify the experience.
Day 4: Hokitika Jade-Trig Walk
Follow the ocean south to Okarito, another remote location on the coast. Stop in the quaint town of Hokitika for lunch and check out the jade carving and glass blowing studios or walk the beach. From our accommodation in Okarito you can spend the afternoon hiking to Trig Lookout where the Southern Alps and Okarito Lagoon are in full view. Extend the hike down, around and up the remote coast back to our accommodation, or stroll along the Lagoon and explore where it meets the sea.
Day 5: Kayak Okarito Lagoon-Franz Josef
Okarito is an old gold rush community that once housed 1,500 people. Now it’s home to only 30. The tidal Okarito Lagoon is the largest unmodified wetland in all of New Zealand. It is home to at least 76 bird species, many of which are rare. Follow small channels across the Lagoon and explore the shallow streams that feed the Lagoon. Glide past ancient Kiwi forest and disappear into wilderness.
Day 6: Glaciers-Late Matheson-Lake Hawea-Wanaka
The Franz Josef and Fox glaciers are surprisingly close to the coast. After tackling both short walks to the glaciers we head to Lake Matheson for another picturesque stroll. Then follow the river over the mountains to Lake Hawea and Wanaka. Mt Iron gives is an ideal spot for a sunset viewing, but it will take some effort!
Day 7: Wanaka Free Day-Hiking-Rob Roy Glacier
Wanaka is a smaller and lower key option when compared to the hustle and bustle of Queenstown, the tourist mecca of the South Island. There are multiple options for hikes that afford amazing views of lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea - both beautiful mountain lakes - including the Rob Roy Glacier hike. More relaxing options include a walk along the lake and through the shops to make a dinner reservation. Wanaka is home to about 6,500 people but swells in the winter as there are multiple ski fields in the area.
Day 8: Dart River Jet Boat-Queenstown Gondola & Luge
Follow lake Wakitipu up to the mouth of the Dart River where Glenorchy sits, another miniature town at a population of 353. Take a jet boat up the spectacular river valley to your inflatable kayaks and paddle through rugged mountain wilderness. Finish the day in Queenstown atop the gondola for great views and Luge fun where one ride is never enough!
Day 9: Departures & Extensions
Fly from Queenstown and arrive back in the US the same day, crossing back over the International Date Line or extend your trip.
THE WESTLAND GALLERY
All pictures taken by Thrive Adventures Guides and Travelers
Click or touch to view full size pictures in gallery
Click or touch to view full size pictures in gallery
NEW ZEALAND TRAVEL FAQ'S
FLIGHTS FROM US TO NEW ZEALAND
Most flights depart from Los Angeles (LAX) or San Francisco (SFO), Houston (IAH) being the only acception, and travel overnight to Auckland (AKO). Some carriers will incorporate a layover, so be sure to look carefully at the arrival date and time. In Auckland you will clear customs and then it is quick and easy to fly to regional airports around New Zealand.
FLIGHT BOOKING
The best prices are generally found online, and airlines do not typically offer less expensive rates to travel agents or tour operators. However, airline group booking departments sometimes offer cheaper rates for groups of 10 or more.
Flight prices may fluctuate not only by proximity to your trip dates, but also by demand for those dates. For example, prices may escalate as the “high season” for a travel destination approaches or as seats fill and new routes are opened for sale. We suggest setting fare alerts through a travel website to track the prices and help you secure the best deal.
CUSTOMS
Clearing customs in Auckland generally takes about 1 hour. If you are planning to continue flying from Auckland to another destination within New Zealand, you will need to: 1) clear customs; 2) check in with the airline providing your next flight; 3) clear security again. We recommend you allow 3 hours for this process.
New Zealand has very strict biosecurity procedures to prevent the harmful pests and diseases from crossing their border. The Passenger Arrival Card you receive on your inbound flight tells you what New Zealand considers "risk goods". All risk goods must be declared or be disposed of in marked amnesty bins at air and sea ports. If you're unsure – declare. People failing to declare biosecurity risk goods – even by accident – may be instantly fined an NZD $400 infringement fee. Anyone caught smuggling a prohibited or risk item could be fined up to NZD $100,000, face up to 5 years in prison, and/or be deported. If in doubt, ask a quarantine officer when you arrive at the airport. More here: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/travel-and-recreation/arriving-in-new-zealand/items-to-declare/
PRE- & POST-ADVENTURE EXTENSIONS
New Zealand travel options are endless, and you can make the most of your experience with customized adventure extensions. THIS is where Thriving begins! Contact us to explore. CONTACT US LINK
MEETING LOCATION IN DESTINATION COUNTRY
Depending on the arrangements you’ve made with Thrive Adventures, your guide will either fly with you and help to navigate the airport - or greet you as you exit customs on arrival in New Zealand. Detailed date and time information will be disseminated as your adventure approaches. From the moment we engage, you’ll be able to enjoy yourself, completely at ease, while we do the rest.
WEATHER
In general, New Zealand summer stretches from November to March, and winter from June to August. On the North Island of New Zealand, summer temperatures range from 55ºF to 80ºF and winter temperatures from 45ºF - 65ºF. Though the weather is generally sunny, warm, and comfortable, layered clothing is advised as the weather is occasionally unpredictable.
WHAT TO BRING
A comprehensive packing list is provided below, but as a rule, pack lightly. Keep it to 1 suitcase and 1 carry-on backpack/daypack with space left inside each bag. Most travelers return with souvenirs, and that extra space will be crucial to avoid baggage fees and travel hassles on the flight home. Contact your airline for specific baggage and travel fee information.
PACKING CHECKLIST
Day pack / backpack (carry on)
1 suitcase / duffle bag
Passport
Credit / Debit Cards
Personal Medication (Pack in carry on. By TSA standards, each medication must be in its original container with your name on the label.)
Camera & Charger (optional)
Towel (microfiber/quick-dry works best for travel, but is not a necessity)
Water bottle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sunhat
Warm Hat (for hike)
Warm Gloves (for hike)
Swimsuit
Flashlight / Headlamp
Energy Snacks
Hiking Boots / Shoes
Toiletries
Jeans / Trousers
Shorts
T-shirts
Sweatshirt or Fleece
Rain Jacket or Poncho
Socks
Thick Socks
Underwear
Quick-dry Shirt (optional)
Laundry Bag
Small Travel Pillow (Optional)
A Good Novel
Insect Repellent
Alarm Clock
Earplugs
Power Adapter/Converter
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation in a foreign country is often an entertaining experience, but your guides are skilled at navigating in these circumstances. All you have to do is hop in and enjoy the scenery.
ACCOMMODATION
Location, location, location! Thrive takes pride in providing comfort and security at all accommodations, and our trusted local friends create unique and memorable experiences for our guests. We do our utmost to honor room-type, amenity, and special requests, and to provide you with your ideal experience. Hotels are our accommodation of choice, with other options customizable by preference including hostels, luxury hotels, and everything in between!
MEALS
Thrive Adventures has spent more than a decade exploring the best restaurants, diners, and local bites New Zealand has to offer, and we build these into each trip. While group dining always enriches the experience, we also recognize that travelers need time to explore independent options. Most of our meals will be planned, but you’ll also have opportunities to choose your own flavor. We will specify in advance which meals are on your own, and we’ll have recommendations at the ready.
OUTLET ADAPTERS & POWER CONVERTERS
New Zealand uses a different type of outlet than is standard in the US: slanted 3 prong. You will need an adapter to plug in your devices. These are readily available online or in airports and convenient stores in New Zealand. The voltage in New Zealand is also different: US 110V, NZ 220V. Plugging a US standard 110V electrical device into a New Zealand standard 220V outlet will result in FRYING your device! Most laptop, tablet, cell phone, and other battery chargers (hair dryer, etc) come equipped with voltage converters, but it is worthwhile to inspect your specific device and ensure it has this capability. If your power cord or device reads “110V - 220V” (or similar), your device will convert power from one voltage to another and you need only an outlet adaptor to use and/or charge it. If it reads only “110V,” DO NOT PLUG IT IN! This device requires a converter AND an outlet adapter for use in New Zealand. Though adapters are small and lightweight, converters can be bulky, heavy, and a pain to travel with.
CELL PHONES & CELLULAR DATA
New Zealand generally has good reception and data availability. The best option for most travelers is to switch out the current SIM card in their current phone with one from a local provider in New Zealand. The interchangeable SIM card is a mini memory chip that contains a subscriber’s service information (local phone number, minutes used, contact list, etc). Once your new SIM card is installed, you will be able to receive calls and texts only via the New Zealand phone number associated with the card. Don’t worry - your original phone number will not be lost. Callers who call your original phone number will be forwarded to voicemail and you can check that voicemail with your New Zealand SIM card installed. Don’t throw away your old SIM card! Upon return, reinstall your old SIM card and restore your phone to its original phone number.
New Zealand service providers sell SIM cards in airport kiosks, corner stores, gas stations, etc. Most newer cell phones are unlocked for international use, but you should contact your current service provider before you travel to ensure that this is the case with your device. Your current service provider may also offer international calling, texting, and data plans. This is typically more expensive than the SIM card option, but it will allow you to make and receive calls and texts with your original phone number while in New Zealand. Contact your current service provider to explore options.
INTERNET
Wireless internet access is available at most accommodations and restaurants. There is often a nominal fee for use, but some locations provide this for free. Public internet cafes are also widely distributed through most cities.
SPENDING MONEY & ADDITIONAL COSTS
Each traveler’s funds and purchase preferences are unique. We recommend you allow at least $50 per day for souvenirs and any additional food purchases you may desire, but this is merely a guideline and may differ from person to person.
CURRENCY
As most venues in New Zealand accept credit and debit cards, there is no need to carry an abundance of cash. ATMs are readily available, though they typically require an international transaction fee. We strongly recommend you CONTACT YOUR BANK for specific fee details and ALERT THEM THAT YOU WILL BE ABROAD. Fraud departments will sometimes lock accounts when a transaction is attempted from an unexpected location.
Exchange rates vary continuously, but the US dollar is typically valued above the New Zealand dollar. Visit www.exchangerates.com for current information.
VISAS
New Zealand automatically waives its Visa requirement for travelers with U.S. passports, and all other required paperwork will be given to you aboard your international flight. For more information, visit http://www.immigration.govt.nz/migrant/stream/visit/.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Please make special note that travel insurance companies do require you to purchase insurance within a short window after paying your deposit to Thrive Adventures. Time frames typically vary from 1-15 days. Ensure you read all the fine print. Most packages will not reimburse your trip “for any reason”. If you want this coverage, ensure it is clearly stated in the agreement.
VACCINES
No vaccines are currently recommended or required to enter New Zealand.
TRAVELER MINIMUM
A minimum of 4 travelers is required to run this adventure at the advertised price. For information on private or custom adventures, please contact us.
Most flights depart from Los Angeles (LAX) or San Francisco (SFO), Houston (IAH) being the only acception, and travel overnight to Auckland (AKO). Some carriers will incorporate a layover, so be sure to look carefully at the arrival date and time. In Auckland you will clear customs and then it is quick and easy to fly to regional airports around New Zealand.
FLIGHT BOOKING
The best prices are generally found online, and airlines do not typically offer less expensive rates to travel agents or tour operators. However, airline group booking departments sometimes offer cheaper rates for groups of 10 or more.
Flight prices may fluctuate not only by proximity to your trip dates, but also by demand for those dates. For example, prices may escalate as the “high season” for a travel destination approaches or as seats fill and new routes are opened for sale. We suggest setting fare alerts through a travel website to track the prices and help you secure the best deal.
CUSTOMS
Clearing customs in Auckland generally takes about 1 hour. If you are planning to continue flying from Auckland to another destination within New Zealand, you will need to: 1) clear customs; 2) check in with the airline providing your next flight; 3) clear security again. We recommend you allow 3 hours for this process.
New Zealand has very strict biosecurity procedures to prevent the harmful pests and diseases from crossing their border. The Passenger Arrival Card you receive on your inbound flight tells you what New Zealand considers "risk goods". All risk goods must be declared or be disposed of in marked amnesty bins at air and sea ports. If you're unsure – declare. People failing to declare biosecurity risk goods – even by accident – may be instantly fined an NZD $400 infringement fee. Anyone caught smuggling a prohibited or risk item could be fined up to NZD $100,000, face up to 5 years in prison, and/or be deported. If in doubt, ask a quarantine officer when you arrive at the airport. More here: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/travel-and-recreation/arriving-in-new-zealand/items-to-declare/
PRE- & POST-ADVENTURE EXTENSIONS
New Zealand travel options are endless, and you can make the most of your experience with customized adventure extensions. THIS is where Thriving begins! Contact us to explore. CONTACT US LINK
MEETING LOCATION IN DESTINATION COUNTRY
Depending on the arrangements you’ve made with Thrive Adventures, your guide will either fly with you and help to navigate the airport - or greet you as you exit customs on arrival in New Zealand. Detailed date and time information will be disseminated as your adventure approaches. From the moment we engage, you’ll be able to enjoy yourself, completely at ease, while we do the rest.
WEATHER
In general, New Zealand summer stretches from November to March, and winter from June to August. On the North Island of New Zealand, summer temperatures range from 55ºF to 80ºF and winter temperatures from 45ºF - 65ºF. Though the weather is generally sunny, warm, and comfortable, layered clothing is advised as the weather is occasionally unpredictable.
WHAT TO BRING
A comprehensive packing list is provided below, but as a rule, pack lightly. Keep it to 1 suitcase and 1 carry-on backpack/daypack with space left inside each bag. Most travelers return with souvenirs, and that extra space will be crucial to avoid baggage fees and travel hassles on the flight home. Contact your airline for specific baggage and travel fee information.
PACKING CHECKLIST
Day pack / backpack (carry on)
1 suitcase / duffle bag
Passport
Credit / Debit Cards
Personal Medication (Pack in carry on. By TSA standards, each medication must be in its original container with your name on the label.)
Camera & Charger (optional)
Towel (microfiber/quick-dry works best for travel, but is not a necessity)
Water bottle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sunhat
Warm Hat (for hike)
Warm Gloves (for hike)
Swimsuit
Flashlight / Headlamp
Energy Snacks
Hiking Boots / Shoes
Toiletries
Jeans / Trousers
Shorts
T-shirts
Sweatshirt or Fleece
Rain Jacket or Poncho
Socks
Thick Socks
Underwear
Quick-dry Shirt (optional)
Laundry Bag
Small Travel Pillow (Optional)
A Good Novel
Insect Repellent
Alarm Clock
Earplugs
Power Adapter/Converter
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation in a foreign country is often an entertaining experience, but your guides are skilled at navigating in these circumstances. All you have to do is hop in and enjoy the scenery.
ACCOMMODATION
Location, location, location! Thrive takes pride in providing comfort and security at all accommodations, and our trusted local friends create unique and memorable experiences for our guests. We do our utmost to honor room-type, amenity, and special requests, and to provide you with your ideal experience. Hotels are our accommodation of choice, with other options customizable by preference including hostels, luxury hotels, and everything in between!
MEALS
Thrive Adventures has spent more than a decade exploring the best restaurants, diners, and local bites New Zealand has to offer, and we build these into each trip. While group dining always enriches the experience, we also recognize that travelers need time to explore independent options. Most of our meals will be planned, but you’ll also have opportunities to choose your own flavor. We will specify in advance which meals are on your own, and we’ll have recommendations at the ready.
OUTLET ADAPTERS & POWER CONVERTERS
New Zealand uses a different type of outlet than is standard in the US: slanted 3 prong. You will need an adapter to plug in your devices. These are readily available online or in airports and convenient stores in New Zealand. The voltage in New Zealand is also different: US 110V, NZ 220V. Plugging a US standard 110V electrical device into a New Zealand standard 220V outlet will result in FRYING your device! Most laptop, tablet, cell phone, and other battery chargers (hair dryer, etc) come equipped with voltage converters, but it is worthwhile to inspect your specific device and ensure it has this capability. If your power cord or device reads “110V - 220V” (or similar), your device will convert power from one voltage to another and you need only an outlet adaptor to use and/or charge it. If it reads only “110V,” DO NOT PLUG IT IN! This device requires a converter AND an outlet adapter for use in New Zealand. Though adapters are small and lightweight, converters can be bulky, heavy, and a pain to travel with.
CELL PHONES & CELLULAR DATA
New Zealand generally has good reception and data availability. The best option for most travelers is to switch out the current SIM card in their current phone with one from a local provider in New Zealand. The interchangeable SIM card is a mini memory chip that contains a subscriber’s service information (local phone number, minutes used, contact list, etc). Once your new SIM card is installed, you will be able to receive calls and texts only via the New Zealand phone number associated with the card. Don’t worry - your original phone number will not be lost. Callers who call your original phone number will be forwarded to voicemail and you can check that voicemail with your New Zealand SIM card installed. Don’t throw away your old SIM card! Upon return, reinstall your old SIM card and restore your phone to its original phone number.
New Zealand service providers sell SIM cards in airport kiosks, corner stores, gas stations, etc. Most newer cell phones are unlocked for international use, but you should contact your current service provider before you travel to ensure that this is the case with your device. Your current service provider may also offer international calling, texting, and data plans. This is typically more expensive than the SIM card option, but it will allow you to make and receive calls and texts with your original phone number while in New Zealand. Contact your current service provider to explore options.
INTERNET
Wireless internet access is available at most accommodations and restaurants. There is often a nominal fee for use, but some locations provide this for free. Public internet cafes are also widely distributed through most cities.
SPENDING MONEY & ADDITIONAL COSTS
Each traveler’s funds and purchase preferences are unique. We recommend you allow at least $50 per day for souvenirs and any additional food purchases you may desire, but this is merely a guideline and may differ from person to person.
CURRENCY
As most venues in New Zealand accept credit and debit cards, there is no need to carry an abundance of cash. ATMs are readily available, though they typically require an international transaction fee. We strongly recommend you CONTACT YOUR BANK for specific fee details and ALERT THEM THAT YOU WILL BE ABROAD. Fraud departments will sometimes lock accounts when a transaction is attempted from an unexpected location.
Exchange rates vary continuously, but the US dollar is typically valued above the New Zealand dollar. Visit www.exchangerates.com for current information.
VISAS
New Zealand automatically waives its Visa requirement for travelers with U.S. passports, and all other required paperwork will be given to you aboard your international flight. For more information, visit http://www.immigration.govt.nz/migrant/stream/visit/.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Please make special note that travel insurance companies do require you to purchase insurance within a short window after paying your deposit to Thrive Adventures. Time frames typically vary from 1-15 days. Ensure you read all the fine print. Most packages will not reimburse your trip “for any reason”. If you want this coverage, ensure it is clearly stated in the agreement.
VACCINES
No vaccines are currently recommended or required to enter New Zealand.
TRAVELER MINIMUM
A minimum of 4 travelers is required to run this adventure at the advertised price. For information on private or custom adventures, please contact us.
