What is a ‘Kiwi’?

The kiwi, New Zealand’s national emblem, is a flightless bird with hair-like feathers and a long, slender bill, which it uses to pull worms and insects out of the ground. Found only in New Zealand, it is active at night in the wilderness areas of the country. Be sure to visit one of the many kiwi houses where you can watch them under special ‘nocturnal’ lighting.

New Zealanders often refer to themselves as Kiwis, and the term is also used as a short form for the famous kiwifruit. On the stock exchange, the New Zealand Dollar is also referred to as ‘the kiwi’.

What is a Farm Stay?

Farmstays are an ideal way to get to meet local people and experience a slice of New Zealand rural life. Depending on the kind of farm, you may get the chance to share home cooked meals with your hosts and join in with milking cows, shearing sheep, lambing, kiwifruit harvesting or whatever else is happening on the farm.

Is the water in New Zealand potable?

New Zealand cities and towns have excellent water supplies and in all cases tap water is fresh and safe to drink. Water from rivers and lakes should be boiled, chemically treated or filtered before drinking to avoid stomach upsets.

What clothes should I pack?

New Zealand is a casual outdoorsy country, which is reflected in the locals’ attire. To be prepared for any weather, use the layer system. Wear a t-shirt, but carry a fleece and lightweight waterproof jacket in a daypack so you’re ready for all conditions. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. We provide you with a packing list with your final documentation.

How far in advance should I book?

New Zealand is a very popular destination and free-wheeling is only recommended in the low season from May - October. Book as far as possible to avoid disappointment at sought after properties. A $300 deposit will allow us to confirm services and hold your reservation until final payment is due. We’ll supply complete Terms and Conditions with your Quotation.

What is the weather like, when should I travel?

New Zealand’s seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere. New Zealand has four quite distinct seasons: Spring (Sept-Nov), Summer (Dec-Feb), Autumn/Fall (Mar-May) and Winter (June-Aug). In summer there’s plenty of sunshine, and activities in and around the water include rafting, snorkeling, diving and kayaking. You’ll find snow on the mountains in winter and excellent skiing. Away from the mountains, New Zealand winters are mild and temperatures generally do not fall below freezing.

What documentation do I need for New Zealand?

All visitors to New Zealand must carry a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the date you intend to leave the country. Most visitors who intend to stay for less than three months do not require a visa. If you want to stay longer than three months, or your country of origin does not have a visa waiver agreement with New Zealand, then you will need to apply for a Visitor’s Visa.

How long should I spend in New Zealand?

Most people find that 2 weeks is the right amount of time to visit both Islands. If you have more time, you’ll see more.

I lose a day?

On the way to New Zealand you’ll skip a day on the calendar when you cross the dateline, but the reverse happens on the way back so you really haven’t lost anything. Here’s how it works: If you leave the US on a Monday evening, you’ll arrive in New Zealand on Wednesday morning. If you leave New Zealand on a Monday you’ll arrive back in the US on Monday, the same day.

How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Auckland?

12 hours non-stop, or, as we like to say: Two good meals you don’t have to cook yourself, all the wines and liqueurs you care for, and unlimited free movies. Seriously, by the time you have cocktails, eat, relax with a book or a movie, sleep and eat again; you’re there. Your vacation starts at take off.

How much does a trip to New Zealand cost?

That’s about as difficult as answering how much your house remodel will cost - it all depends on what you plan to do. But if you just want a general idea, look at our packages which are valid pretty much all year round.