These videos, articles and podcasts will illuminate the variety of enthralling experiences that await you on our Original Journey across the South Island. Drawn from respected independent sources, we’ve curated this multi-media collection to fire your imagination. Inspiring as they are now on your screen, the things you see, read and hear will truly come to life when you travel with our engaging native-born guides.
Our A+R Library
About Your Journey… New Zealand
With just over 5 million friendly residents spread across the 104,000 square miles of this Pacific archipelago, New Zealand is about the same size as Colorado – but with a significantly lower population density. And with its magnificent fjords, lakes, forests and mountains, you can expect the splendors of nature to top the list of vacation delights. And indeed, your journey across the magnificent South Island will be well rewarded with unforgettable vistas, from the mountain landscapes that provided the backdrop for the Lord of the Rings films to the pristine waterways of the Milford Sound.
But New Zealand also promises memorable experiences that reflect the diversity and spirit of its residents. Fine congenial dining is enhanced by the islands’ abundant wealth of natural produce, its world-famous lamb, fresh seafood and – of course – highly acclaimed wines. From thrilling 4WD forays into the countryside to heart-pounding jet-boat expeditions on pristine rivers, New Zealand also promises unforgettable adventure. And every step of the way, the welcoming laidback attitude of its residents will make this one of the most delightful vacations you’ll ever have!
At a Glance
Passport
- Must be valid for six months after the completion of your visit and must have at least 1 blank page. See page 5.
Visas
- NZeTA required. See page 5.
Vaccinations
- COVID-19 vaccination. See page 6
Luggage
- Prepare an overnight bag along with normal luggage. See Page 15.
Tipping
Travel Checklist
- Complete your Guest Information Forms available at www.alexanderroberts.com/before-you-go.aspx
- Check your Passport for required validity and blank pages.
- Double-check all mandatory visas are secured and are accurate.
- Check that first and last names on your airline tickets match your passport.
- Report international flight information to Alexander+Roberts and all times verified.
- Communicate special diets, allergies, mobility limitations and special needs to Alexander+Roberts prior to travel.
- Check your cell phone plan has international coverage and be sure to provide your phone number to Alexander + Roberts
Passports + Visas
Passport holders from the United States are now required to obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) visa which is good for multiple entries valid for 2 years. You can apply online here: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-visa/nzeta. You pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) at the same time as your NZeTA.
It is your sole responsibility to secure and/or pay for any and all visas (reciprocity fees, affidavits, immunizations, etc. that are required to be permitted entry into each destination). Visitors from countries other than the United States should check on their specific entry requirements with the nearest New Zealand consular office.
American citizens will need to present a valid passport upon entry into New Zealand. Passports must be valid for six (6) months after the completion of your stay.
Now’s a good time to assemble and check your travel documents, then keep them together in a safe, accessible area of your home. If you keep your passport in a bank safe deposit, retrieve it now to avoid a last-minute rush - and double check the expiration date!
Your Health
Recommended inoculations for travel may change and you should consult your practitioner for current recommendations before your upcoming journey. It is your responsibility to ensure that you meet all health entry requirements, obtain the recommended inoculations, take all recommended medication, and follow all medical advice in relation to your trip. Inoculation requirements can be found on the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website at https://www.cdc.gov/. Also check the World Health Organization (WHO) website http://www.who.int/ith/en/ before you travel internationally.
Medical supplies including CPAP machines for sleep apnea can be brought as an additional carry-on with most airlines. If you are traveling with a CPAP machine, please let Alexander+Roberts know in advance and consider bringing a backup battery in case of inconsistent electricity supply. Distilled water is available in most destinations. Make sure you have all appropriate adaptors, although newer machines have universal power supplies that can adapt to various voltages. Bring extra supplies (especially cushions) and replacement parts as repairing the machine while travelling may not be possible.
COVID-19 Entry requirements
The Government of New Zealand no longer requires negative COVID testing or vaccination verification to enter New Zealand. Please visit the Consulate General’s COVID requirements found here: https://nz.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information.
If you have symptoms, we encourage you to take a rapid antigen test followed up by a PCR test. In the event of a positive case, you will need to self-isolate for 7 days. Tourists must secure lodging at their own expense for the duration of the self-isolation time. Health screenings are in place at the airport and you may be asked to take a rapid test on arrival. Travelers must adhere to any local face mask regulations.
Physical Activity
Journeys to New Zealand tend to be active trips. The excursions and activities we include often involve a great deal of walking over uneven terrain, and you assume responsibility for your personal safety. There will be hills to climb and descend, and steps often have no wheelchair access. Even indoor sites like museums and historical buildings may only have steps - no elevators or ramps. Hotels may be limited in the provisions they make for wheelchair access and airports may require steps to board and deplane without jetway access to the gate or terminal.
Mobility issues or physical challenges must be reported to Alexander + Roberts when making your reservation. We will make reasonable attempts to accommodate special needs, but cannot always provide individual assistance nor can we ensure that local vehicles will be wheelchair-equipped. For these reasons, a qualified companion must accompany guests who need such assistance.
You may encounter limitations at hotels, airports, rail stations and transportation facilities that may make your trip challenging. Many natural and historical sites are in walking zones with uneven paving and uphill or downhill walkways with no wheelchair access. Some museums and historical buildings may have only steps and no elevators.
We regret that we cannot provide individual assistance for guests who need mobility assistance. Nor can we ensure that local vehicles will be wheelchair-equipped. For these reasons, a qualified companion must accompany guests who need such assistance.
Physical limitations requiring special attention and/or equipment must be reported when making reservations. We will make reasonable attempts to accommodate special needs but cannot provide individual assistance. Should issues become apparent on tour that impact other guests, we may require individual assistance be obtained or require the guest to return home early at the guest’s expense.
Protecting Your Vacation
As you prepare and get excited for your upcoming journey, it’s not fun to think about what would happen if you had to cancel or interrupt your trip. The best way to eliminate that worry is with a good travel protection plan. Travel protection plans can help protect you in the event of loss of non-refundable trip deposits and payments that result from cancellation or trip interruption (due to a covered reason such as injury or illness before or during the trip). It also helps with reimbursement for medical emergency costs (including very costly medical evacuation costs), missed connections and baggage loss. There are many good plans out there, and we’re happy to offer a very comprehensive Travel Protection Plan - including “Cancel for Any Reason” benefits. You can find complete information online: alexanderroberts.com/insurance.aspx
We highly recommend that you travel with some insurance.
Your International Flights
If you have not already made your international flight arrangements, you should consider taking advantage of our excellent relationships with outstanding international carriers including Lufthansa, British Airways, United Airlines and Emirates. We can book your air in Economy, Premium Economy or Business Class with advice on seat availability - and even advance seat assignments on many carriers and routes. Booking your international air with A+R would allow us to directly assist you with any flight disruptions, delays or cancellations while on-tour.
Personalized Service… Anytime you Need it!
If you have questions about your upcoming journey or wish to make any changes such as adding extra nights, special sightseeing or transfers, please call your travel agent. You can also contact our Concierge, at 800-678-7942, Ext. 154. Or reach her by email at Concierge@AlexanderRoberts.com.
For travel assistance during your journey, we’ve included our OnCall International service… It’s complimentary 24/7! Just call 888-771-8409 or 603-898-9159…. Anytime, we’re here to assist you.
A Word about Hotels
As in other parts of the world, check-in time for most hotels is around 3:00PM and check-out time is typically 11AM. Should you arrive early to find that your room is not yet ready, the hotel will likely be more than happy to store your luggage securely for a few hours. That leaves you unencumbered to explore a bit at your own pace - or to relax with a cup of tea or coffee either in the lobby or at a nearby cafe.
Similarly, if you have a late departure flight, hotels will store your luggage after you’ve checked-out, leaving you free to explore and relax until it’s time to go to the airport. Depending upon how busy they are, hotels may allow you to occupy your room for another hour or two without charge; check with the front desk to determine if this is possible for your day of departure.
If early check-in or late check-out is required, advance arrangements can usually be confirmed for the cost of an additional night. Please notify us or your travel agent if you wish to confirm either.
Climate…What You Can Expect
New Zealand weather and climate is of paramount importance to the people of New Zealand, as many New Zealander's make their living from the land. New Zealand has mild temperatures, moderately high rainfall, and many hours of sunshine throughout most of the country. New Zealand's climate is dominated by two main geographical features: the mountains and the sea.
Because New Zealand lies in the Southern Hemisphere, the average temperature decreases as you travel south. The north of New Zealand is subtropical and the south temperate. The warmest months are December, January and February, and the coldest June, July and August. In summer, the average maximum temperature ranges between 60 - 85º F and in winter between 35 - 60º F.
Money Matters
The currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar, NZ$ (NZD). You can exchange cash and traveler’s checks for local currency at hotels, banks and international airports. Please note that these establishments will charge a fee to exchange traveler’s checks; some establishments may also charge a fee to exchange cash.
Many locations will accept major credit cards, but for incidentals and small vendors you will need local currency. It is a good idea to contact your credit card company before you travel to advise which countries you are visiting.
ATM machines will dispense local currency for internationally accepted ATM cards and/or credit cards. But be sure to pay attention to any fees – as some local banks charge a per transaction fee for use of their ATM’s. If you wish to use your ATM card, we recommend that you notify your bank that you will be traveling internationally, and also to ask about any bank fees you might incur by using your card abroad.
Tipping
For your on-tour convenience, we have included all gratuities except for your Trip Leaders or guides. This includes drivers, baggage porters and restaurant staff for all included meals; certainly, if any of these services are exceptional and go above-and-beyond, then feel free to tip additionally.
For your Trip Leaders or guides, many of our guests find it helpful to have some guidelines; in that spirit, we recommend tipping them $10 to $15 per person, per day.
Although not included in your Tour Fare, please remember that these gratuities are always at your discretion. They are appreciated as recognition for excellent service, but whether you tip, and how much, is entirely up to you.
When you’re out enjoying meals and activities that are not part of your A+R itinerary, here are tipping guidelines in accordance with local practices:
- Upscale restaurants: A service charge (10%-15%) is typically already included on the bill
- Bell hops: $2-$5
- Taxi's: Tips are not expected by taxi drivers
- Private Drivers: $2-5$ per trip
- Spa services: add 10%-15%
There is a 15% Goods and Services Tax (GST) included for purchases and services. Until recently, tipping in New Zealand was not customary and was even frowned upon by those in the service and tourism industries. New Zealand service workers are paid a decent wage to start with and do not count on tips as part of their salary. However, as foreign travelers continue to visit, tipping has become a bit more popular, but only in the tourist areas.
About Electricity
The voltage in New Zealand is 230-240 V AC. An adapter and a converter will be necessary to charge your electronic devices. We recommend purchasing an adapter prior to travel, but many hotels usually have them available at the front desk. For more information on plugs and sockets, review the information at: www.iec.ch/world-plugs.
Internet and Phone calls
We strongly encourage all travelers to bring your cell phone when you travel and ensure with your carrier that your plan covers international calls and/or mobile data from the countries you will visit. Carriers and plans vary widely on coverage so please make sure the details of your plan are understood before you travel. Alternatively, local prepaid SIM cards for your phone are usually available at the airport where you arrive and can be used to tap into local service providers. Wi-fi is available at all hotels either complimentary or for a fee; you can find Wi-Fi information on your itinerary and hotel list, or check with the front desk upon check in regarding access details.
If making an international call from your hotel room, please check the rates first. Hotels often contract with outside companies to provide direct-dial telephone services for guests calling overseas from their rooms, and the rates can be unexpectedly high. Popular wi-fi calling and messaging apps are also available to download to your mobile phone, we recommend WhatsApp or Skype for communicating while abroad. Some apps and websites may not be available in all countries.
WhatsApp and Skype allow users to add contact phone numbers and send text and voice messages, make voice and video calls, and share images, documents, over Wi-Fi or mobile data coverage. Both caller and recipient need to have downloaded these apps to communicate, however. If our local office has a WhatsApp or Skype account, that information will be included in your final documents.
Each country has a dialing exit code (the US is 011), when calling abroad, you will need to prefix the international call with the dialing exit code. If using a modern smartphone, you can hold the zero which will add a “+” and it will automatically include the country exit code from wherever you are calling. The dialing code for New Zealand is +64 (the US is +1); you’ll need to prefix the local number with this dialing code when calling from outside of the respective country.
Time Zone and Business Hours
New Zealand’s local time is 18 hours ahead of New York City, so if it is 12 noon eastern time, it is 6 AM on the following day in New Zealand. Most businesses including banks are open from 9 to 5 on weekdays excluding holidays.
Is the Water Safe to Drink?
City water supplies are safe to drink but bottled water is available everywhere if preferred.
Meal Time
It wasn’t really all that long ago – as recently as the 1980’s – when travelers would return from New Zealand with terrific stories about its friendly people and spectacular natural beauty. But often, they would be a bit less enthusiastic about the food they ate. But a lot can change in three decades and New Zealand dining has come a long way. Taking full advantage of the islands’ abundance of fine natural ingredients, New Zealand chefs are developing their own unique style of cuisine that is fresh, simple and relaxing.
It’s no longer just overcooked lamb and boiled vegetables. As you travel throughout the country, you’ll have an opportunity to enjoy skillfully prepared meals featuring the freshest seafood, locally grown vegetables, the islands’ world-famous lamb and prime grass-fed beef. Ingredients are fresh and seasonal, and fine dishes are inspired by European, Asian and indigenous culinary styles. In the spring, young lamb is perfect for fast cooking or grilling. Mature by winter, chefs prefer lamb dishes that are slowly-cooked in casseroles and stews.
At the same time, New Zealand’s wine industry has become world-famous. The islands’ Sauvignon Blanc, in particular, is hailed for its fine citrus notes, making this wine the perfect accompaniment to oysters, scallops and other freshly harvested seafood!
Shopping
By all means, enjoy your shopping! But we do recommend that you avoid objects that appear to be ancient artifacts. Many so-called artifacts are anything but old. In addition, the export of genuine ancient relics is strictly controlled so that cultural treasures do not leave the country. Animal skins, things made with tropical bird feathers, and similar items should also be avoided. Some could be made from endangered species and their export (and import into the USA) may be illegal. Buying only from reputable shops will help you to avoid problems.
New Zealand’s Bio-Security
As New Zealand is an agricultural nation, it is illegal to bring fresh fruit, plants and some other items into the country. An instant ‘on the spot’ fine will be applied by New Zealand Immigration officials at the airport for any items found. MAF Biosecurity New Zealand (MAFBNZ) aims to prevent the entry of pests and diseases which could endanger New Zealand's important agriculture and horticulture industries. It is important to remember that if you have any animal or plant item with you, or packed in your luggage, you must declare it on your passenger arrival card. Please note that unaccompanied baggage may attract inspection charges.
For further information about quarantine restrictions, please contact: MAF Biosecurity New Zealand www.maf.govt.nz
Phone: +64 4 894 0100
Overnight Bag
If your itinerary includes an overnight on Milford Sound aboard the Milford Mariner, you will need an overnight bag for your stay. This can be your carry‑on piece. Just make sure that this bag will hold everything you need for an overnight stay and is one that you can comfortably carry yourself. The rest of your luggage will be kept in a secure location.
Packing Advice to Get You Started
Generally, the attire is casual with the emphasis on comfort and convenience. Easy-to-care-for clothing and mix and match separates are ideal as to prevent the need to bring a lot of clothes. Restaurants range from coffee shops to elegant dining rooms where the dress varies from casual to semi-formal. We recommend that you dress in layers: bring along clothing that will allow you to add or subtract a layer if you become too hot or cold, especially for your excursions into the countryside where the temperature tends to be cooler. Your program includes a fair amount of walking during sightseeing tours so please pay particular attention to footwear - bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes with rubber soles and firm arch support. The weather can be quite unpredictable, a rain jacket or travel sized umbrella will help to keep you dry if you do happen to encounter rain during your travels.
Consider an easy-to-carry traveling bag… It’s good to have a small bag to carry your daytime needs with you while traveling and a backpack is used by many travelers for this purpose. A water bottle is always handy to have in your traveling pack.
The Essentials… Hotels are well-equipped with tissues and toilet paper; however small packets of facial tissues and a small bottle of hand-sanitizer can be handy. Please bring your own lotions, contact lens solutions, cosmetics and feminine hygiene products. Bring extra prescriptions (packed partially in your hand luggage) as well as cold medicine, aspirin and cures for intestinal troubles. You should also bring a good sun block lotion with you since high temperatures can intensify the impact of the sun. We recommend 30+ SPF.
Seeing + Capturing your Experiences… Make a complete check of your camera equipment before you leave and make sure you have replacement or rechargeable batteries and additional memory cards.
Camera drones are not allowed for use on our tours as they can detract from the experiences of your fellow travelers. If, however you plan to bring a drone for use in your free time, please pay close attention to the local aviation laws. Most historic sites and national parks explicitly prohibit the use of personal drones, so it is your own responsibility to acquire any necessary permission and adhere to local laws should you plan on traveling with a drone.
On-Tour Hunger Pangs… High protein snacks are good for both the air trip as well as for your activities while traveling: nuts, raisins, granola bars and peanut butter are popular with many of our travelers.
A Few Final Tips… Some handy items we recommend include: an extra pair of glasses, zip-lock plastic bags, face masks, sunscreen and a bottle opener.
Reminders about your Baggage
Baggage restrictions vary by airline, and we ask you to review the airlines on your itinerary and review baggage restrictions on their website to determine the maximum number of bags and weights that are allowed. In Economy, passengers are limited to one bag. Keep in mind that the flights that are included on your tour are in Economy and are limited to one checked bag with weight limits. So when packing for your trip, consider the bag and weight restrictions on all of your flights, not just your international arrangements.
Most airlines charge travelers for additional bags and excess weight so we advise you to pack as lightly as possible. Most of our hotels offer laundry services.
TSA Packing Tips
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) publishes a comprehensive list of items that are Permitted and Prohibited in carry-on and checked baggage. You can find the complete list online at https://www.tsa.gov/travel.
For vacation travelers, the important thing to remember is that only one small bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes can be in your carry-on bag when you pass through security. Each item is limited to 3.4 ounces (100ml) - and all containers must fit inside a clear, 1-quart sized, zip-top bag. If you have containers that are larger than 3.4 ounces, they must go inside your checked baggage.
Medications, baby formula/food and breast milk are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding the 3.4-ounce limit, and they do not have to be in a zip-lock bag. You should declare these items at the checkpoint, and keep in mind that TSA Officers may need to inspect them.
Other Recommendations:
- Jewelry, cash, tablet devices and laptops should be in your carry-on baggage. Tape your business card to the bottom of your laptop for easy identification if it gets separated for inspection.
- Avoid accessories and jewelry that contain metal as they may set off the metal detector at the check point. This will save having to take them off and put them back on as you pass through security.
- Wear slip-on shoes that can be easily removed and placed on the conveyor built to be x-rayed at the security check-point.
- If you wish to place a lock on your checked luggage, it must be of a make and model approved by the TSA.
- Do not pack wrapped gifts and do not bring wrap gifts to the security check point.
A Note about Traveling with Minors
Many countries currently require documentary evidence of a relationship between minors traveling with an adult. Though New Zealand is not one of them, we strongly recommend that parents traveling alone with a minor carry a notarized letter from the absent parent authorizing the trip, regardless of whether the parent is married or divorced. Never-married parents, parents whose spouse has died, and parents who have been granted sole legal custody of children are encouraged to carry notarized proof of their status. Grandparents traveling with grandchildren and adults traveling with children who are not their own should carry letters of authorization from both parents of the children. It is wise to also carry the child’s birth certificate with the original seal.
And a Few Words about Safety + Security
New Zealand is a safe country and violent crime involving travelers is quite rare. But petty crime is a reality no matter where in the world you travel. Traveling abroad is no different than visiting a new city in the United States: Use common sense precautions to safeguard your person and your possessions at all times. Remember to wash your hands frequently and use hand-sanitizer.
- Do not go out and about with your passport unless specifically instructed to do so by your local guides.
- Keep your extra cash and passport in the in-room safe of your hotel. In the few instances where they are not available, then store these items in the safety deposit box at the front desk.
- Always make a copy of your passport, credit cards and e-tickets and keep them separate from the originals so that they can be more readily replaced if lost or stolen. Leave extra copies with someone at home that you can reach while traveling. Or consider scanning these documents and emailing them to an address which you can access while abroad.
- If you don’t already own one, consider investing in a money belt that can be concealed under your clothing. This is a good place to keep the cash and credit cards that you need for personal expenses while sightseeing, shopping and touring.
- Do not display large amounts of cash in public. Carry your purse with the strap across your chest, not dangling from your shoulder or arm.
These measures will save you countless time and trouble should your credit cards, airline tickets or passport be lost or stolen.
Some Helpful Web Links
U.S. Department of State
travel.state.gov
Travel documents and tips; State Department Travel announcements; Consular Information for countries you will visit
Center for Disease Control and Prevention
wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel
General health information for travelers and health information on specific destinations
Transportation Security Administration
www.tsa.gov (select Traveler Information)
Tips for travelers going through security at the airport
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
www.cbp.gov (select Travel)
Helpful information for returning U.S. citizens travelling abroad
Calling the U.S. from Abroad
www.howtocallabroad.com
Helpful tool to understand how to call internationally
Currency Converter
www.oanda.com/currency/converter