Frequently Asked Questions

  • No you don’t, your tour is a private tour.

  • yes, our experienced guide is with you all the way from pickup to drop-off. Your guide will give a full audio commentary and answer any questions you may have. Do be afraid to ask!

  • We cover the entire North Island of New Zealand. If you wish to travel to the South Island we can recommend tour guides there.

  • The travel time to New Zealand varies depending on your departure location. From major cities in North America, such as Los Angeles or Vancouver, the flight duration to Auckland, New Zealand, typically ranges from 12 to 14 hours non-stop. Flights from European cities like London or Paris can take around 24 hours with one or more layovers. It's essential to check with airlines for the most current flight schedules and durations before planning your trip to New Zealand. Safe travels!

  • Yes we can arrange all aspects of your New Zealand vacation including transport, accommodation, and activities. The only thing we don’t arrange are international flights and visas.

  • Yes, we will come into the Airport to meet you when you arrive and drop you off when you depart. (Unless otherwise specified). We will be waiting in the arrivals area with a signboard. If you wish to stay the night(s) in Auckland, then we’ll pick you up at a specified time to start your tour. Likewise, we are able to drop you anywhere you like at the end of your tour.

  • No your tour guide also acts as your driver. All fuel and other car costs are included in your tour package.

  • At Great North Tours, we accept, credit cards, debit cards, and other popular payment methods around the world. Choose the payment method that suits you.

    Pay 30% deposit. Full payment upon arrival. Cancel up to 30 days before your tour for a full deposit refund. Deposit will not be refunded if you cancel within 30 days of the tour start date.

  • Yes, barring unforeseen circumstances, we try to. We find having the same guide throughout your tour gives you a better experience.

  • Yes, your tour guide will drive you to any locations you wish to go to throughout your tour.

  • We cater for single travellers wanting a unique and personal tour of New Zealand, through to couples, families, family groups and friends. We cater for up to 11 guests including luggage.

  • We take a 30% deposit, with the balance due upon arrival.

  • Great North Tours Limited does not provide travel insurance. We recommend that you obtain travel insurance for the duration of your trip.

  • No, we are able to fully customise your holiday to suit any age of guest.

  • Yes, in accordance with NZ law, kids aged 7 years and younger must have a car seat or booster, which we provide.

  • Bookings cancelled outside 30 days the deposit can be fully refunded

    Bookings cancelled within 30 days or less of tour departure, the deposit may not be refunded.

  • In New Zealand, the official currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Symbolized by the "$" sign and identified by the code "NZD" in the foreign exchange market.

  • The weather in New Zealand varies depending on the region and the season.

    In general, New Zealand's climate is temperate, with mild temperatures, moderate humidity, and relatively high rainfall. The country experiences four distinct seasons: summer (December to February), autumn (March to May), winter (June to August), and spring (September to November).

    North Island: The North Island generally has warmer temperatures compared to the South Island. During the summer months, temperatures can range from 20-30°C (68-86°F) in most areas. Winters are milder, with temperatures around 10-15°C (50-59°F).

    South Island: The South Island experiences cooler temperatures, especially in the Southern Alps and Fiordland. Summers are pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F) in most regions. Winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing in some areas.

    Rainfall: New Zealand is known for its changeable weather, and rainfall can occur at any time of the year. The west coast of both islands tends to be wetter due to the prevailing westerly winds, while the east coast is generally drier.

    Overall, when planning a trip to New Zealand, it is advisable to pack layers and be prepared for a variety of weather conditions, as the weather can change quickly in this beautiful country.

    If you have any specific questions about a particular region or time of year, feel free to ask.

  • Payments are usually made in the form of cash, credit cards, debit cards, travel money cards, cheques and traveller’s cheques.

    We recommend carrying a small amount of cash when visiting from overseas – even if you prefer to put most purchases on your credit/debit card.