Our Tours & Experience

Do we join other people on our tour?

No. All of our tours are 100% private. You will only travel with the people you book with, ensuring a personal and exclusive experience.

Are your tours fully guided?

Yes. Your experienced guide is with you from pickup to drop-off, providing full audio commentary, local insights, and answering any questions you have along the way.

Do we have the same guide throughout our tour?

Yes. Barring unforeseen circumstances, we ensure you have the same guide for your entire journey to provide consistency and a better personal connection.

Which areas do your tours cover?

We cover the entire North Island of New Zealand. While we specialize in the North, we can provide recommendations for trusted tour partners in the South Island.

How many people can go on a guided tour?

Our premium vehicles cater to groups of up to 11 guests, including luggage. We welcome solo travelers, couples, families, and small groups of friends.

Planning & Logistics

Can you arrange my entire New Zealand vacation?

Absolutely. We can manage all aspects of your itinerary, including transport, accommodation, and activities. Please note we do not arrange international flights or visas.

Do you pick us up from the airport?

Yes. We provide a "Meet & Greet" service at the arrivals hall with a signboard. We also provide drop-offs at the end of your tour to the airport or any other location you specify.

Do we need to do any driving?

No. Your guide is also your professional driver. All fuel, insurance, and vehicle costs are included in your tour package.

Will our tour guide drop us off at restaurants?

Yes. Your guide is at your service for the duration of the tour and will handle drop-offs and pick-ups for dinners, evening activities, and sightseeing.

Do you provide car seats for children?

Yes. In accordance with New Zealand law, children aged 7 and under must use an approved child restraint. We provide high-quality car seats and boosters at no extra charge.

Payments & Cancellations

How does payment work?

We require a 30% deposit to secure your booking. The remaining balance is due upon your arrival in New Zealand.

What payment methods are accepted?

We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, and popular international payment methods. While most NZ businesses take cards, we recommend carrying a small amount of cash for local markets.

What is the New Zealand currency?

The official currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD/$).

What happens if I need to cancel my tour?

• Cancellations more than 30 days before departure: Your 30% deposit is fully refundable.

• Cancellations within 30 days of departure: The deposit may not be refundable.

Is travel insurance included?

No. Great North Tours does not provide travel insurance. We strongly recommend you obtain comprehensive travel insurance before your departure.

Traveler Information

What are the travel times to New Zealand?

Flight times vary by location. Non-stop flights from North America (LAX/SFO) take 12–14 hours. From Australia, it is 3–4 hours. From Europe or the UK, travel time is typically 24–27 hours with at least one layover.

What is the weather like in New Zealand?

New Zealand experiences four distinct seasons.

• Summer (Dec–Feb): Warm and sunny, 20°C–30°C.

• Autumn (Mar–May): Mild with vibrant colors, 15°C–22°C.

• Winter (Jun–Aug): Crisp and cold, 10°C–15°C (colder in alpine areas with snow).

• Spring (Sep–Nov): Fresh and green with varied weather, 15°C–20°C.

Is there a minimum or maximum age for your tours?

No. Because our tours are 100% private, we customize the pace and activities to suit any age, from infants to seniors.