Saving Guarantee

Kiwi Escapes Savings Guarantee

We guarantee to beat any competitor self-guided tour package price or value by a minimum of 15% ("price-beat") as follows:

Note: By requesting the price-beat you are under no obligation to place a booking with us or proceed with the final tour package as the case may be.

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS

Inclusions in travel and tour packages assembled by travel agents, tour companies, wholesalers, online travel promoters and others will all be different in some way. Packages will vary by inclusions, validity, suppliers, component type, standard, terms and conditions etc ("package components"). We will have access to most suppliers and types of inclusions as well as alternatives.

Our objective in a price-beat situation is to assemble a package containing similar and/or higher standard package components to that which you present to us. We guarantee to offer at least 15% more total value or a price that is 15% lower than the competitor quote. Any package components that are exclusive to specific suppliers to which we do not have access will not be included.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

The above and following terms and conditions apply to travel plans and tour-package pricing requested from and supplied by Travel Directions Pty. Ltd. trading as Kiwi Escapes and are subject to change without notice. These conditions are to be read in conjunction with our standard booking conditions.

The price-beat must be requested before you place a booking with any other tour or travel agent, online booking agent or tour operator direct in relation to the subject package.

A price-beat may be requested by providing information regarding the competitor quote and your requirements to an employee of the company who performs a reservations or travel consultant role ("company contact") as follows:

  1. Information regarding a tour or travel package must be provided to us in the form of a written quotation by the competitor travel agent or other supplier as applicable, or by supplying other written or photographic evidence containing full package details via email to the company contact.
  2. Your exact booking requirements including travel/booking dates, number and age of travellers and special requirements if any.

Your assigned travel agent will contact you to discuss and confirm the details then will submit a travel plan for approval.

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  • 9 Days North Island Adventure
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    Booking enquiry

    9 Days North Island Adventure

    Immerse yourself in the diversity of New Zealand's North Island and its endless natural wonders.

    Starting in Auckland you will adventure beyond to the Bay of Islands, Hobitton and Waitomo before making your way to the Coromandel Coast with pristine beaches, a myriad of marine life, sea caves and rock formations carved by the sea over many years. Continue to Rotorua, one of the islands most popular destinations with its geothermal parks and activities. Then onto Taupo, home to the islands largest lake and most visited attraction, the magnificent Hukka Falls.

    An unforgettable NZ experience
    An unforgettable NZ experience
    -

    YOU PAY FROM AFTER GCASH TRAVEL CREDITS

    DESTINATION
    NEW ZEALAND
    THEME
    FAMILY
    PRICE FROM
    NZD $1,689
    FLIGHTS INC.
    PACKAGE TYPES
    SELF-GUIDED
    PHYSICAL LEVEL
    4/10

    Trip Highlights

     

    Experience the highlights of New Zealand's North Island including the Bay of Islands, Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Te Puia and much more.

    Select package type:

    Sapphire Self-guided

    A marvellous, self-guided car trip for independent travellers!

    This suits singles, couples and groups of up to 8 people. We organise everything for you saving you a lot of time and money. You drive and follow the great itinerary we organise for you to make the absolute most of your holiday.

    READ MORE

    Sapphire self-guided package

    BOOKING ENQUIRY

    Sapphire package - self-guided from NZD $1,689pp twin-share [Save $879]

    Our base package class includes all of the essential trip elements including activities and allows you the option to choose from a range of other daily inclusions. Very high quality Bronze or Silver standard accommodation applies.

    COMPARE PACKAGES|SHARE TYPES

    • Nature
    • Adventure
    • Beach-side
    • On the water
    • Special interest
    • Sightseeing
    • Family activities
    • New cultures
    • Learning
    • Wildlife

    Be delighted by these experiences:

    Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves day tour

    Be fascinated as the magical world of Hobbiton comes to life and see and take photos in front of your favourite places like the Hobbit holes, the Shire, the Green Dragon Inn. Be captivated by the thousands of magical glowworms as you glide silently by boat in the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. All admission fees are included as well as a cafe-style lunch at The Homestead at Waitomo.

    Bay of Islands & Waitangi Treaty Grounds tour

    Discover the stunning marine playground and scenic beauty of the region during your 4-hour cruise as you make your way through the pristine islands towards the Cape Brett Peninsula and its historic lighthouse and (conditions permitting) through the majestic Hole in the Rock. After this, enjoy a 3-hour inspiring cultural experience at the birthplace of New Zealand, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

    Sail Lake Taupo to Maori rock carvings

    Cruise the sparkling waters of Lake Taupo and discover its natural wonders and hidden mysteries. Enjoy the Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay and listen to old legends and engaging stories. Sit back and relax or get involved and learn to sail or jump in for a swim. 

    More trip highlights:

    local_activity
    Hot Water Beach

    Two hours either side of low tide visitors flock to the usually deserted Hot Water Beach to find hot water bubbling through the golden sand. Families, kids and couples can be found digging their own spa pool in the sand and relaxing in the hot natural springs. Rated as one of the world's most renowned beaches, this is one experience that should be on your bucket list. A truly unique Kiwi experience.

    local_activity
    Cathedral Cove

    This popular track hugs the coast, providing dramatic views of spectacular coastal scenery along its length, finishing at the beach beneath an impressive rock archway (1hr 30m easy return walk). A loop track at the north-western end offers an extension to the main walk with amazing views.

    local_activity
    Visit Whitianga by ferry

    No visit to the Coromadel is complete without a ferry trip to the small harbour side town of Whitianga. Park your car and catch the passenger ferry to get a bite to eat or enjoy a spot of shopping and mingle with the friendly locals.

    local_activity
    Kerosene Creek

    Set amongst lush native bush, Kerosene Creek is popular among visitors and locals alike, offering a natural bathing experience like no other. Hot water from a natural spring under the earth bubbles up into the cool waters of the creek, creating pleasantly warm waters. Swimmers have piled up small smooth rocks to create little hot pools beside the 2m waterfall.

    local_activity
    Te Puia day pass & guided tour

    Mud pools, kiwi birds, and towering geysers are waiting for you in the Te Puia nature preserve. With a guided tour through the geothermal valley and a day's worth of free time to see living examples of the traditional Maori lifestyle, you can mix local history and great scenery in a single spectacular day.

    restaurant
    Gondola & dinner

    Jump onboard one of our eight-seater Gondola cabins and experience spectacular views of Lake Rotorua, the city and steaming geothermal vistas on your way to enjoy a delicious dinner featuring a stunning array of freshly prepared buffet and cooked-to-order dishes highlighting locally sourced seafood, meat and produce. The contemporary ambience features luxurious Italian marble, granite, schist, timber and David Trubridge lights, while the panoramic view of Lake Rotorua is a sight to behold. 

    View the itinerary for a comprehensive view of the trip highlights.

    Value Pricing

    Sapphire self-guided package
    Sapphire Self-guided
    A marvellous, self-guided car trip for independent travellers!
    From NZD $1,689pp twin-share [Save $879]
    • Return flights to Auckland International Airport (AKL)
    • 6 days car hire included
    • 9 days of touring and sight-seeing
    • 14 towns and other places of interest visited
    • 8 nights' top-class accommodation
    • 3 excellent excursions and activities
    • 1 airport transfer

    See full inclusions

    BOOKING ENQUIRY

    Ruby self-guided package
    Ruby Self-guided
    A marvellous, self-guided car trip for independent travellers!
    From NZD $2,329pp twin-share [Save $1,214]
    • Return flights to Auckland International Airport (AKL)
    • 6 days car hire included
    • 9 days of touring and sight-seeing
    • 14 towns and other places of interest visited
    • 8 nights' top-class accommodation
    • 5 excellent excursions and activities
    • 1 airport transfer

    See full inclusions

    BOOKING ENQUIRY

    FAQ: Single, twin-share and more

    What is twin-share, triple-share and quad-share?

    The share-basis is about accommodation pricing. It does not mean that you share a room with a stranger.

    "Twin-share" is where two people occupy a hotel room (open-plan style) or other accommodation such as an apartment, usually a couple or two friends. This is the normal way accommodation is priced. The price is shared between two people. Most accommodation properties (eg. hotels) offer rooms with king, queen or double beds. Most offer the option of "twin" beds as well which actually means two single beds to accommodate singles sharing, couples wanting space and so-on.

    "Triple share" is where three people occupy the accommodation and share the price. "Quad-share" is where four people occupy the accommodation and share the price. Family apartments and hotel rooms usually include a king, queen or double bed and one or more single beds to handle triple and quad-share arrangements. Sometimes other bedding configurations are available as well.

    What is a seasonal adjustment?

    Some accommodation providers, especially in very popular holiday locations, have higher room rates for busy holiday periods (usually spring and summer holidays). We must make an allowance for those price variations if applicable.

    What is a single supplement?

    A "single supplement" applies to single travellers who want a room to themselves. Because the price is not shared, a "single supplement" applies. This additional amount is based on the single covering the entire accommodation component of the trip that would normally be split between two or more people.

    * All prices and payments are in New Zealand dollars (NZD). Currency conversions are estimated only. Prices are per-person on a twin-share basis unless stated otherwise and bookings are subject to availability. Price and deposit amount varies according to travel date. All prices are estimates only. A firm quote (travel plan) with payment terms will be submitted for consideration prior to agreement to proceed. Full booking terms and conditions are available here.

    Inclusions

     

    Covering an immense distance at a leisurely pace, this trip serves as the perfect getaway for those looking to unearth some of New Zealand's most serene delights and enjoy its abundance of exhilarating activities.

    Select package type:

    Sapphire Self-guided

    A marvellous, self-guided car trip for independent travellers!

    This suits singles, couples and groups of up to 8 people. We organise everything for you saving you a lot of time and money. You drive and follow the great itinerary we organise for you to make the absolute most of your holiday.

    READ MORE

    Sapphire self-guided package

    BOOKING ENQUIRY

    Sapphire package - self-guided from NZD $1,689pp twin-share [Save $879]

    Our base package class includes all of the essential trip elements including activities and allows you the option to choose from a range of other daily inclusions. Very high quality Bronze or Silver standard accommodation applies.

    COMPARE PACKAGES|SHARE TYPES

    "With authentic opportunities to experience Maori culture, and the country's bubbling volcanic heart, the North Island is an exceedingly versatile destination."

    This is a first-class itinerary that's fully flexible. Want more or fewer days or you want to include a special destination or activity? No problem, we’ll customise a travel plan for you.

    Inclusions list:

    Other information:

    • Add extra nights wherever you want and pay the lowest member rates
    • Flexible family size (3 or more)
    • Hand-picked, top-rated hotels, all tried and trusted
    • Variety of optional excursions and tours

    All packages include:

    • No fees to alter the itinerary (you just pay for the adjusted itinerary)
    • Extra nights at industry wholesale price (using GCash travel credits)
    • Google Drive folder with soft copies of all travel documents
    • Personal travel consultant to help plan and customize your holiday
    • Comprehensive, printed itinerary and travel documents

    Other information:

    This tour package is entirely flexible and can be customised to suit your group's interests and number of participants.

    Some substitution of activities might be required subject to travel date and/or day of week as not all activities operate seven days a week.

    * All prices are per-person on a twin-share basis and bookings are subject to availability. Price and deposit amount varies according to travel date. If flights are shown as included then a flight cost provision (allowance) applies and is based on travel from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane. Travel can be arranged from any other major centre and for any number of people. All prices shown are estimates only. A firm quote (travel plan) with payment terms will be submitted for consideration prior to agreement to proceed. Total price after member discount (using Getaway Cash credits and Australian Escapes Free Flights Vouchers if applicable) is generally payable as follows: Deposit on booking, balance 120 days prior to departure. Packages can be priced for families and groups on request. Standard (retail) price comparisons are with similar packages offered elsewhere or what would be payable by a non-member for the same package. Travel insurance if included is a provision only and may be declined on requestTravel insurance pricing if stated is based on comprehensive travel insurance for two travellers aged 69 years or less as at the date of departure from Australia. No recommendations or advice are given in regard to travel insurance suitability. Travel Directions Pty Ltd (t/as Australian Escapes Holiday & Travel Club) standard booking terms and conditions apply to all booking enquiries and bookings and are available here to view (or visit our website and go to either the "Booking Enquiry" or "About Us" menu item.)

    Your Itinerary

     

    North Island New Zealand, also officially named Te Ika-a-Maui is rich with culture, beauty and unforgettable experiences including Hobbiton, Waitomo glow worm caves, the Bay of Islands, the Coromandel, Rotorua and Taupo, 6 of the most popular destinations. This holiday has been meticulously prepared from first-hand experience to make sure you take in all of the highlights.

    "Because in the end, you won't remember the time you spent working in the office or mowing your lawn. Climb that goddamn mountain." - Jack Kerouac

    Your day-to-day itinerary:

    Select package type:

    Sapphire Self-guided

    A marvellous, self-guided car trip for independent travellers!

    This suits singles, couples and groups of up to 8 people. We organise everything for you saving you a lot of time and money. You drive and follow the great itinerary we organise for you to make the absolute most of your holiday.

    READ MORE

    Sapphire self-guided package

    BOOKING ENQUIRY

    Sapphire package - self-guided from NZD $1,689pp twin-share [Save $879]

    Our base package class includes all of the essential trip elements including activities and allows you the option to choose from a range of other daily inclusions. Very high quality Bronze or Silver standard accommodation applies.

    COMPARE PACKAGES|SHARE TYPES

    22 327 3 true 0 18
    DAY 1
    AUCKLAND (3 NIGHTS)

    Also known as Tamaki Makaurau, Auckland sprawls over volcanic hills and around twin harbours, offering an exhilarating mix of natural wonders and urban adventures.

    Getting here:

    flight
    Return flights to Auckland

    Starting and ending in Auckland, enjoy return flights to and from this exciting urban hub.

    airport_shuttle
    Airport transfer to your Auckland accommodation

    Begin your holiday in style and enjoy a luxury airport transfer to your Auckland accommodation.

    About today:

    Spend some time exploring Auckland

    Kia Ora and welcome to New Zealand

    Today is the first day of your family adventure. To make sure you get off to a good start you will have a free afternoon to settle into your hotel, explore the local area, and enjoy dinner together without having to rush. We recommend dining at Swashbucklers Restaurant with arguably the best seafood in Auckland, located on the water's edge in spectacular Westhaven Marina.

    hotel
    3 nights accommodation in Auckland

    Auckland is New Zealand's most populous city and is a multi-cultural hub of food, music, arts, and culture. Centrally located, your accommodation provides a perfect base to explore this fantastic city to your heart's content.

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    DAY 2
    HOBBITON - THE GLOW WORM CAVES

    About today:

    Waitomo Glowworm Caves

    Yes! Lord of the Rings and glow worms today!

    Today you have the opportunity to be whisked away on an optional award-winning tour to see New Zealand's two most iconic and famous attractions, The Lord of the Rings (Hobbiton Movie Set) and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves in one day. Be amazed as the magical world of Hobbiton comes to life. Take photos in front of your favourite places like the Hobbit holes, the Shire, and the Green Dragon Inn. Then, be enthralled by the thousands of magical glowworms as you glide silently by boat in the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves.

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    DAY 3
    BAY OF ISLANDS - HOLE IN THE ROCK - WAITANGI TREATY GROUNDS

    The Bay of Islands is a subtropical micro-region known for its stunning beauty & history. For those that love beaches and water activities, it's paradise

    About today:

    Visit Bay of Islands

    The beautiful Bay of islands awaits

    Today, embark on an optional guided tour to the Bay of Islands. The 3-hour journey north offers breathtakingly ever-changing scenery. Discover the stunning marine playground and scenic beauty of the region during your 4-hour cruise as you make your way through the islands towards the Cape Brett Peninsula and its historic lighthouse and (conditions permitting) through the majestic Hole in the Rock. Enjoy a 3-hour inspiring and cultural experience at the birthplace of New Zealand at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds including an informative tour with your local Maori guide, a high-energy Maori cultural performance, additionally, ample time to explore Waitangi's heritage buildings.

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    DAY 4
    AUCKLAND - THE COROMANDEL - HOT WATER BEACH (2 NIGHTS)

    With a mountainous interior cloaked in native rainforest and more than 400 kilometres of dazzling white sand beaches, The Coromandel is everything that a big city isn’t.

    Your hire car:

    drive_eta
    6 days car hire

    Explore at your own pace with quality 4x4 car hire in New Zealand. Standard package includes Mitsubishi Pajero or similar.

    (Car type is subject to availability.)

    About today:

    Hot Water Beach

    Make your own warm water spa all year round

    Collecting your hire car in Auckland you will make your way to the Coromandel Coast, a spectacular 3-hour drive. We recommend that you check the Hot Water Beach tide times and head to the beach at low tide to dig yourself a hot spa. As you walk along the beach and you feel the warm sand under your feet, that means you have found the perfect place to dig. Keep in mind, the water coming up through the sand can be quite hot so you might need to dig in a cooler area and make a channel to your personal in-sand spa to get the perfect temperature. This is an experience you will never forget.

    hotel
    2 nights accommodation in Hot Water Beach

    Naturally heated mineral water bubbles up from deep within the earth to emerge through golden sand at the appropriately named Hot Water Beach.

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    DAY 5
    CATHEDRAL COVE - SEA CAVES

    About today:

    Cathedral Cove

    Family activities and a memorable, fun day

    Driving the short distance to Hahei, you will find stunning beaches with incredible rock formations carved by the ocean. This is where you will start your 1h 30m return walk to Cathedral Cove. This popular track hugs the coast, providing dramatic views of spectacular coastal scenery along its length, finishing at the beach beneath an impressive rock archway. Enjoy the rest of your day soaking up the sun at the impressive beaches and exploring the area before driving a little further to catch the historic passenger ferry to the quaint coastal town of Whitianga. Enjoy lunch making sure you check the last ferry times for the afternoon.

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    DAY 6
    THE COROMANDEL - ROTORUA (2 NIGHTS)

    Rotorua is known for bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs, as well as showcasing fascinating Maori culture.

    About today:

    Stratosphere restaurant

    Heading into the stratosphere - great times together

    Starting with another scenic 3-hour drive you will make your way to the popular geothermal town of Rotorua. After checking-in to your accommodation, you will have some free time before you make your way to Skyline Rotorua where you will enjoy the gondola ride up to the stratosphere restaurant for a delicious buffet dinner with the most amazing views in the area. We highly recommend that you take up the optional inclusion of luge before dinner. This will mean arriving earlier, but the thrill and fun is well worth it. The kids will be talking about this for years to come.

    hotel
    2 nights accommodation in Rotorua

    Rotorua is known for bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs, as well as showcasing New Zealand's fascinating Maori culture.

    Activities:

    local_activity
    Gondola & buffet dinner

    Jump onboard one of our eight-seater Gondola cabins and experience spectacular views of Lake Rotorua, the city and steaming geothermal vistas on your way to enjoy a delicious dinner.

    (Included)
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    DAY 7
    TE PUIA - KEROSENE CREEK

    About today:

    Rotorua is home to geothermal wonders

    Kerosene? - It's a wierd name for such a lovely place

    Start your day with a guided tour at Te Puia, New Zealand’s geothermal wonderland, featuring dramatic geysers, bubbling mud pools, traditional Maori carvers and weavers, bush walks, Kiwi birds, and a cultural food and beverage offering overlooking Pohutu Geyser! After the guided tour you are free to explore the park some more before driving 30 minutes south to Kerosene Creek, a geothermally heated stream where you can bathe and relax.

    Hot water from a natural spring under the earth bubbles up into the cool waters of the creek, creating pleasantly warm waters. A short walk through a steamy forest will bring you to the little hot pools beside the 2m waterfall set amongst lush native bush. A perfect end to a day of geothermal fun!

    Activities:

    local_activity
    Te Puia Guided Tour

    With a guided tour through the geothermal valley and a day's worth of free time to see living examples of the traditional Maori lifestyle, you can mix local history and great scenery in a single spectacular day.

    (Included)
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    DAY 8
    ROTORUA - LAKE TAUPO (1 NIGHT)

    Taupo is a sanctuary for those who need a quiet spell. Visit the area and you'll see evidence of the lake's fiery birth in the geysers, steaming craters and boiling mud pools. 

    About today:

    Lake Tekapo Maori Rock Carvings

    You will get to experience some of the unique Maori culture here

    Enjoy the short 1-hour drive to Taupo where you will before setting sail on the magnificent Lake Taupo, marvel at Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay, and listen to old legends and engaging stories. Sit back and relax or get involved and learn to sail. Don't forget your swimmers, if the weather permits your captain will let you jump in the pristine waters, an offer you won’t be able to refuse.

    After your cruise, you can spend the afternoon exploring Taupo or enjoy more of the water sports on offer at the lake. There is also a botanical garden with remarkable views and plenty of walking tracks. Alternatively, you can stay in your car and drive the loop through the park.

    hotel
    1 night accommodation in Taupo

    The beautiful town of Taupo was created nearly two thousand years ago by a volcanic eruption. Spend some time exploring some of New Zealand's most visited attractions.

    Activities:

    local_activity
    Sail Lake Taupo to Maori rock carvings

    Cruise the sparkling waters of Lake Taupo and discover its natural wonders and hidden mysteries. Enjoy the Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay and listen to old legends and engaging stories. Sit back and relax or get involved and learn to sail or jump in for a swim.

    (Included)
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    DAY 9
    HAERE RA - RETURN HOME

    About today:

    An unforgettable NZ experience

    Oh No! We have to leave.

    Today we say Haere Ra and goodbye to New Zealand. You will have a 3h drive back to Auckland for your return flight to Australia. The end of an unforgettable family holiday!

    FAQ's for This Package

    ≡

    Are flights included?

    Yes, a provision for flights is included in this package. You can also use Australian Escapes Free Flights Vouchers at the rate of 1 per traveler to reduce the overall price.

    How flexible is this tour package? Is there a minimum number of people? Can we add and change things to suit ourselves?

    Pricing is based on a minimum of four travelers, however all of our travel and tour packages are fully flexible. Each is a TEMPLATE to be used as a framework around which you can customise an itinerary to suit. The minimum numbers are flexible as well and groups can be as small as two people for a self-guided holiday. After discussion, we'll go away and prepare a tour plan (including best value pricing) to suit your ideas and preferences.

    Is accommodation supplied for this trip and if so, what type of accommodation is it?

    (Describe the accommodation inc. property type, standard, room type, bedding) Accommodation is supplied in [give destination, nights]. It will be [resort] style rated [Standard rating] or above. This means, [very high] quality accommodation. Bedding is arranged to suit the number of persons staying. All accommodation is subject to change subject according to availability however it will be as central as possible and [very high] quality.

    Are all listed activities included in the advertised tours or are they extra? Is there any more to pay?

    We try to include as much as possible to avoid any surprises however some optional activities might be offered. Included activities are shown on each listing. Also shown are exclusions.

    Will I be joining an existing shared tour or will this be exclusively for our group?

    The introductory package is self-guided (self-drive) and exclusive to your group. All tour packages are flexible. If you represent a club or other group, please click the "Enquiry" button to request pricing for your group size as pricing is often affected by the number of people.

    Will there be anyone at each location or attraction on this tour to guide and show us around?

    This tour includes attractions where a guide will provide information to enhance your experience. A professional tour director is provided and recommended for exclusive charters of 20 or more people. A group trip organiser may also fill this role.

    General Tour Package FAQ's

    ≡

    Do you cater to special interests where smaller groups or singles can break away from the main group?

    Yes, the idea of our tour packages is to get you to the destinations on the itinerary where you can stay with the main group or go off on your own if you prefer. Flexibility is the essential ingredient.

    Is this a self-guided (self-drive) tour package?

    Yes. This is a great value self-guided (self-drive) tour package. You will be supplied with either a standard car or SUV according to the package inclusions. The idea is to use our itinerary as a guide. We take care of the flights, accommodation and other inclusions so you can focus on having a great time.

    Do you provide wheelchair access on your trips?

    Yes, however please ensure that you mention this requirement so we can be certain that arrangements are made where needed. You do need to be traveling with a person who will provide personal assistance.

    Do your tours still operate if it is raining?

    Yes, and if rain is forecast you should be prepared with a compact umbrella or rainproof jacket as preferred.

    Do you cater to special dietary requirements on these trips?

    Yes we do. Dietary requirements affect included set meals and will be taken into consideration during the planning process.

    What options or assistance is available for groups to run their own tours.

    All tours can be operated on a "Group-guided" basis. A complete "Tour Manager Notes & Guide" manual is supplied to the group leader (trip organizer). Included is a comprehensive daily itinerary, driver instructions and information about each part of your tour to enable you to provide entertaining commentary. Also included are checklists and reminders about daily tasks. The end-result is easy-flowing trip organisation, fewer issues and very happy tour participants. Overall it means less stress and a lot more fun for everyone.

    If we are traveling as a group on an exclusive charter, will there be a tour manager or leader?

    If a tour director is supplied in an example tour package it will be shown as an inclusion. But this is very flexible and if not included as standard, can be arranged if preferred. If you are part of a social group such as Probus, the trip organiser will often enjoy taking on this role. We provide comprehensive information and guidance for "hands-on" trip organisers. This includes a "how-to" guide and starter information about the places visited on the tour.

    Can a tour be tailored to what our group is interested in?

    Yes, definitely. All charter tour packages are simply "templates" as a starting point for customising a tour to suit. We then we apply the discounts available to you, your club or corporate group.

    Will I be joining an existing shared tour or will this be exclusively for our group?

    All tour packages are flexible. Various options are already published. (See the Pricing section for the tour you are interested in.) "Join departure" tour types are tours where you can join a tour group leaving on various departure dates. This suit couples and singles. If you represent a club or other group, please click the "Enquiry" button to request pricing for an exclusive charter to suit your group.

    Are all listed activities included in the advertised tour packages or are they extra? Is there any more to pay?

    See a list of standard inclusions on the package details page. Some packages have two or three different package classes with different inclusions. Select the optional package class to see included activities. Optional activities are shown separately. Your travel consultant will discuss optional activities with you so you can decide what to include or leave out of your itinerary. You can also swap and change activities. A price variance might apply.

    What is the difference between "Self-guided", "Group-guided" and "Fully-guided" tours?

    "Self-guided" (self-drive) is a trip designed for singles, couples and groups of up to 8 people (such as two to four couples) traveling together using a single car or 7 to 12-seater van depending on group size. It means that you drive yourself on the trip. "Group-guided" means the tour is for a larger group on a bus with a professional driver and the group leader (trip organizer) as tour director. A professional tour director can be supplied if required. A "fully-guided" bus tour is operated by a driver-guide or tour director. There are usually preset departures that you can join. Fully-guided tours can also be arranged exclusively for a group and this is called a "group charter".

    What is "audio-guide" equipment?

    One of the challenges in managing tour groups is making sure everyone can hear what is being said. Audio-guide equipment enables the tour guide or manager to communicate via microphone and headset with all members of the tour group. For groups of 12 or more a tour-guide system is recommended.

    Can I specify the type of accommodation I want?

    We will recommend accommodation to meet your preferences. All accommodation is selected using our exclusive hotel rating system. You can then change the accommodation if preferred. Often you will also have a choice of accommodation types at the recommended accommodation properties. We'll find out your preferences in the early stages of planning your trip.

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    FAQ: Tour package types and flexibility

    What is a "Self-guided" tour?

    This means you are in full control of your trip including driving. You will have a rental car (uncluded in the package) to get you around. The vehicle size varies according to preference and/or group size. Self-guided is aimed at singles, couples and groups of up to 8 people.

    Our job is to organise most things for you in advance saving you a lot of time, stress and money. You'll receive a complete daily itinerary with lots of helpful information plus a FREE Lonely Planet guide to fill in the gaps. There is usually considerable flexible time at each destination enabling you to relax and enjoy the location and to do things spontaneously.

    What is a "Group-guided" tour?

    Group-guided is aimed at groups of 12 or more people. "Group-guided" means you or another person runs the tour as would a tour director. A tour coach and professional driver is supplied.

    The included "Tour Manager Notes & Guide" helps you run the tour, plus you receive a FREE Lonely Planet guide. Included is a complete daily itinerary with lots of helpful information as a well as a driver itinerary.

    We organise all aspects of the trip in advance saving you a lot of time and money and ensuring a smooth travel experience. There is usually considerable flexible time at each destination enabling you to relax and enjoy the location and do things spontaneously.

    What is a "Fully-guided" tour?

    Fully-guided tours are aimed at larger groups on a charter basis, the same as "Group-guided", except that the tour is run by a professional tour director.

    Transport is a tour coach and professional driver. We organise all aspects of the trip in advance saving you a lot of time and money and ensuring a smooth travel experience. There is usually considerable flexible time at each destination enabling you to relax and enjoy the location and do things spontaneously. A fully-guided tour means everyone can relax including the trip organiser.

    What is a "Join departure" tour?

    You join a fully-guided tour that starts on an available departure date. Small and large groups can join a departure, however the tour is focused on the interests of the broader group. You can appoint a leader specifically for your group if preferred to focus on separate interests.

    The tour is run by a professional tour director. Transport can vary from a 8 to 12-seater commuter bus, driven by the tour director, up to a 54-seat luxury coach with professional driver. We organise all aspects of the trip in advance and there is usually considerable flexible time at each destination enabling you to relax and enjoy the location and do things spontaneously.

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    Agent Contact Request

    An experienced travel consultant will contact you as quickly as possible. Not good with forms? Phone 1800 669 579.

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