of up to 10 miles (16km) and 2,550 feet (780m) of ascent.

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2 of up to 10 miles (16km) and 2,550 feet (780m) of ascent. If you wish to walk the famous Milford or Routeburn tracks, we offer the option of leaving the group on Day 15 to walk either track. A brochure for these walks is available on request. Day 1: Depart UK Day 2: Overnight flight to Auckland Day 3: Arrive Auckland Our New Zealand Grand Discovery tour is designed to show you the best of this stunning country. Taking you from the lush sub-tropics of the North Island to the alpine beauty of the South, we give you a chance to experience for yourself the warmth of true Kiwi hospitality. Our walks provide ample time for photography and observation of New Zealand s unique range of plant life, native birds, insects and (harmless!) reptiles. Most walks have longer and shorter options, and there is usually a choice of two different walks during the days spent in the national parks. From the bays around Auckland, through the Maori heartlands at Rotorua and all the way down to Queenstown and shimmering Milford Sound, this trip of a lifetime includes most of New Zealand s highlights along with some of its lesser discovered secrets. This holiday offers a good balance between part and full day walks, travelling and sightseeing. Guided walks range from 3 to 6 miles (5-9.5km) with minimal ascent. On a few days there are also optional harder walks On arrival in Auckland, you will be met at the airport. In the afternoon there will be a chance to explore the city or to rest and relax in the hotel. We would recommend that you stay awake towards a normal bedtime if possible, as this will help prevent too much jet lag. Accommodation: Millennium Auckland Hotel (2 nights) Meals included: D Day 4: Rangitoto Island excursion Today we take a cruise out from Auckland to the inner islands of the Hauraki Gulf Maritime Park, landing at Rangitoto Island. Auckland s largest and youngest island, Rangitoto served as a look out by the Maori in times of war. We walk through the lava fields and bush to its summit for spectacular views (3 miles/4.5km return, 860ft/260m of ascent/descent). Day 5: Waitomo and on to Rotorua (220 miles/352km). We drive via Hamilton to Rotorua, following the line of the Waikato river through an area famous for its dairy 2

3 farms and kiwi fruit orchards. On route we visit the Waitomo Caves, home to thousands of glow worms, gaze in wonder at the mass of tiny bright lights as you journey through the glow-worm grotto. We arrive in Rotorua in the late afternoon, an important area of geo-thermal activity and rich in Maori culture. Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua (2 nights) Day 6: Rotorua Featuring fierce performances, ceremonial rituals and a traditional hāngi feast. Day 7: Tongariro (110 miles/177km). This morning we visit Te Puia, the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute (and Thermal Reserve). This geothermal wonderland is a delight for all the senses. Here we ll get an opportunity to see the endangered kiwi bird. A leisurely morning drive then takes us to the cascading crystal blue waters of Huka Falls. We stop for lunch at Lake Taupo, New Zealand s largest lake. Enjoy the striking backdrop of the towering volcanic peaks of Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro against the great lake. We continue to Tongariro National Park where we will stay for the next two nights. Accommodation: Chateau Tongariro (2 nights) This morning we visit the spectacular Waimangu Thermal Valley. Created by the eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886, this geothermal system features an array of volcanic features. Our walk takes us past attractions such as the Waimangu Cauldron. This pale blue lake steams at an impressive 53 C and is thought to be the world s largest hot water spring. Following the crater walkway from the visitor centre we reach the shores of Lake Rotomahana (3 miles/4.5km). A short boat ride takes us across Lake Tarawera and we continue by bus to the buried village of Te Wairoa. Here you can learn all about the devastating eruption of 1886, or if you prefer, visit the majestic Wairere Falls. In the evening, we enjoy a truly authentic cultural experience at Tamaki Maori Village. Day 8: Tongariro National Park The Tongariro Crossing is considered one of NZ s greatest one day walks. Taking you on an awe-inspiring journey through outstanding volcanic scenery. The walk begins on a gradually ascending track to Soda Springs, then follow a zig zag path on volcanic rock to the top of the South Crater. Known as the devil s staircase, this is a steep 250m climb. Your reward (on a clear day) is the first undisturbed view of Mount Taranaki. Continue through the fascinating moonscape across the South Crater. The route then follows the ridge up to the top of Red Crater, so called because of the red oxide in the volcanic rock. From here a steep descent brings you to the beautiful Emerald Lakes. Their striking colour is a result of minerals from the surrounding rock. 3

4 Continue across Central Crater with a short ascent to Blue Lake. Follow the track around the lake to enjoy stunning views of Lake Rotoaira and Lake Taupo in the distance. Continue your descent, passing the Ketetahi Spings through the forest. (12.1 miles/19.4km, 2,550ft/780m of ascent and 3,700ft/1,130m of descent). in the capital city. We ll take the cable car to the Kelburn lookout for outstanding views of the city and harbour. Meander back to the city through the Botanical Gardens. Visit the Beehive, home to New Zealand s parliament and then on to the harbourside to explore Te Papa, New Zealand s National Museum, Spend the afternoon here, or visit some of the citys other attractions including Weta Cave (Lord of the Rings workshops) and Zealandia eco sanctuary. Accommodation: Novotel Wellington (1 night) Day 10: Interisland cruise and travel to Christchurch Please Note: Tongariro National Park can be subject to unpredictable weather. This walk will only be possible if weather conditions are favourable on the day. Alternative walks depending on local conditions and the groups interests, include: Taranaki Falls: A walk through open tussock and forest to the falls which plunge over the edge on an ancient lava flow. A good area to observe small native birds flitting among the mountain beech trees in search of insects (4 miles/6km, 150ft/45m of ascent/descent). Tama Lakes: This walk continues from Taranaki Falls to the Lower and Upper Tama Lakes, offering fine views of Mounts Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu (10 miles/16km, 1,440ft/440m of ascent/descent). Day 9: Wellington (208 miles/332km). We leave the National Park and travel to Wellington, for sightseeing (210 miles/337km). This morning, we say farewell to the North Island taking a cruise on the InterIslander ferry to Picton on South Island. Our journey takes us across the Cook Strait, through the Tory Channel and on to the beautiful Queen Charlotte Sound, lasting a little over 3 hours. Our onward journey by coach takes us along the scenic Pacific coast via Kaikoura to Christchurch. Please note: although State Highway 1 between Picton/ Kaikoura/ Christchurch has now reopened, this is for limited hours each day only. Accommodation: Elms Quality Hotel or Chateaux on the park, Christchurch (1 night) 4

5 Day 11: TranzAlpine train/arthur s Pass/Hokitika or Punakaiki (154 miles/248km). We board the TranzAlpine rail service for a scenic rail journey across the fertile Canterbury Plains and into the heart of the mighty Southern Alps. We travel across towering viaducts, through spectacular gorges and river valleys and into the lush forest of Arthur s Pass National Park. We leave the train at Arthur s Pass for short walks to the impressive Devils Punchbowl falls and along the Arthur s Path walkway (2.5m/4km). We continue by coach to the West Coast and our overnight accommodation in nearby Hokitika, famed for its Pounamu (greenstone). Beachfront Hotel Hokitika or Punakaiki Resort (1 night) Day 12: Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers (118 miles/189km). After a morning at leisure in Hokitika, we travel south to Fox Glacier, stopping en route at Franz Josef. Stretching from the peaks of the Southern Alps down to lush rainforest just 200m above sea level, nowhere else in the world, at this latitude, do glaciers approach so close to the sea. The magnificent Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are truly remarkable. They are part of the Westland National Park which, together with Mount Cook, has been honoured as a World Heritage Park. We walk to Franz Josef Icefall Viewpoint. From the river bed the track climbs over smooth rounded rocks which were covered by the glacier until the 1960s. (3 miles/5km). In the afternoon, there will also be an opportunity (weather dependant) for an optional helicopter flight around Mt Cook. Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef (1 night) Day 13: To Queenstown (218 miles/348km). From Franz, you cross from one climatic zone to another, presenting a remarkable variety of scenery from deserted beaches to vibrant rainforests. Our first stop is at Lake Matheson to walk through Kahikatea, Korimiku and Lacewood forest, along the water s edge. The lake produces brilliant mirror like reflections of the Southern Alps in the early mornings. From here the road departs the coast and climbs over the Hasst Pass with short stops en route to the many picturesque waterfalls. Our final stop before Wanaka is Lake Hawea offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. We enjoy a short stop in Wanaka before our final drive to Queenstown, Adventure Capital of the World. (1 mile/2km return). Accommodation: Copthorne Lake Front Hotel, Queenstown (4nights) Days 14-16: Queenstown area Queenstown is a compact township on the shores of beautiful Lake Wakatipu backed by the shadows of the Remarkables Mountain Range. 5

6 These trails offer fine views of the Wakatipu shoreline and surrounding peaks (9km/6 miles, 220m/720ft of ascent/descent). The Mount Crichton Scenic Reserve: A circular walk through mountain beech forest and open pastures offering good views of the western edge of Lake Wakatipu (6km/3.75miles, 370m/1,210ft of ascent/descent). There will be a variety of walks and activities in this spectacular region. The first day in Queenstown is free for exploration, activities or to simply relax. In the evening, we will take the gondola lift to the Skyline Restaurant for an evening meal high above the town. Walk possibilities: Frankton Arm Track: A pleasant walk around Lake Wakatipu with views to the Remarkables, Walter Peak and Queenstown Hill (7.5 miles/12km). Queenstown Hill: Walk to the summit for excellent views over Lake Wakatipu and a panorama of the surrounding mountains. An easy steady climb (2.5 miles/4km return with 1,670ft/500m of ascent/descent). Bob s Cove: A sheltered, secluded bay 14km from Queenstown. An enjoyable lakeshore walk through beech forest, home to a variety of wildlife (3 miles/4.5km). The Moonlight Trail: An excellent walk over the Ben Lomond saddle to Arthur s Point, following the trail of the early gold diggers who sought their fortune at Moonlight and Moke Creek. In good weather we ve magnificent views (9 miles/14.5km) with 2,120ft/645m of ascent and 3,465ft/1,060m of descent). Lake Dispute and Moke Lake: Day 17: To Te Anau (116 miles/186km). A short drive south takes us to Te Anau. Situated on the shores of Lake Te Anau, the township has a noticeable slower pace and provides a perfect base for the exploration of the Fiordland National Park. After lunch a boat trip takes us out across Lake Te Anau to Brod Bay for our lakeside walk along the Kepler Track (3.5 miles/5.5km). In the evening, there is the possibility of visiting Te Anau cinema for a performance of Ata Whenua. Taking you on a cinematic journey of discovery through the untouched wilderness of Fiordland National Park. Accommodation: Distinction Te Anau Hotel (3 nights) Day 18: Te Anau There will be a selection of walks today depending on the group s interests and local conditions. Walk possibilities: Key Summit-The Routeburn Track: Alpine walk on clearly marked track which climbs gradually through the treeline. At the 6

7 summit there is a nature walk which follows a circular route providing outstanding views of the Darran Mountains (4.5m/7km with 430m/1,400ft of ascent and descent). Rainbow Reach: A leisurely walk which follows a track through beech forest along the river terrace. The forest scenery changes when the track crosses a sphagnum moss bog before continuing through forest to the edge of Lake Manapouri. Day 19: Te Anau Milford (151 miles/242km return). A day excursion to Milford Sound, driving through magnificent mountain scenery to the famous Milford Sound. We stop en route to view the brilliant Mirror Lakes and enjoy a short nature walk at Homer Tunnel. Before arriving at the Milford Sound stop, we take a short walk to The Chasm, carved out by a series of burbling waterfalls. Experience the true magnificence of Milford Sound as you cruise the deep waters between sheer cliffs. Enjoy wonderful views of mile-high Mitre Peak and Lady Bowen Falls whilst discovering native New Zealand wildlife including fur seals and dolphins. Day 20: Twizel (248 miles/396km). We leave Te Anau to travel to the picturesque gold rush village of Arrowtown. Explore the Chinese village settlement featuring exhibits of the goldmining life of the 1800s. Follow the various trails along the Arrow River or visit the numerous galleries, boutiques and cafes. We visit the historic Kawarau Suspension Bridge, home to the world s first commercial Bungy site. If jumping 43m off a bridge does not appeal you can still enjoy watching others take the plunge. From here we continue into the legendary MacKenzie Country, staying in Twizel near Mount Cook. Accommodation: MacKenzie Country Inn, Twizel (2 nights) Day 21: Around Mount Cook We spend the day walking near Mount Cook, taking a spectacular route along the Hooker Valley, with views to Mount Wakefield, Footstool and the south face of Mount Cook. Standing at 3,755m, Mount Cook is known to the Maoris as Aoraki ( the cloud piercer ) and dominates a national park where there are some 20 peaks over 3,000m. We will also have the opportunity to visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre in The Hermitage, Sir Edmund learned to climb on this formidable peak before becoming the first person to reach the summit of Everest in Hooker Valley: This popular route leads towards Mount Cook, crossing three swing bridges, and continues to the terminal of the Hooker Glacier. This is an easy, well-laid track 7

8 through open tussock which passes the memorial to climbers and guides killed on Mt Cook (9 miles/14km return with 440ft/135m of ascent (shorter options available)). If you have been unable to take a flight on the West Coast, there will be another opportunity (weather dependant) for an optional helicopter flight around Mt Cook. Meals included: Breakfast, dinner Day 22: Christchurch (170 miles/272km). The final journey of our holiday takes us north, pausing at the idyllic church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapo. At Tekapo we will ascend Mt John for superb views of the Lake Tekapo and the surrounding Southern Alps. We cross Burke s Pass and drive across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch, the ideal place to relax at the end of our tour. Accommodation: Quality Hotel Elms (2 nights) Day 23: Christchurch Godley Head Walkway Today we enjoy a walk along the Godley Head walkway which provides stunning coastal views. The headland was probably the first New Zealand landmark seen by the original English settlers after their lengthy voyage. Nesting sites for spotted shags and the blue penguin can also be found along the coastal cliffs. Day 24: Return flight Early departure for your return flight via Sydney. (Please see section under visas) Meals included: B 8

9 Pass Hut (probably with Kea parrots in eager attendance) we continue around the base of Mount Balloon, under the sheer face of the Jervois Glacier and across Roaring Burn and Moraine Creek. We then pass through the rainforest of Arthur Valley to the Quintin Hut. Finally, we take a short visit to Sutherland Falls, the highest falls in the southern hemisphere. (9 miles/15km with 1,640ft/500m of ascent and 3,700ft/1,125m of descent) Milford Track option Guests participating in the Milford Track walk depart from Queenstown on Day 15 and travel to Te Anau to commence the walk. Day 15: Queenstown - Te Anau - Glade House The journey begins with an early morning drive from Queenstown to Te Anau. We take an afternoon scenic cruise to Glade House and enjoy a short-guided walk to explore the area (1 mile/1.5km with 130ft/40m of ascent). Day 16: Glade House Pompolona Lodge Cross the emerald green Clinton River after leaving Glade House and walk amidst beech forest to lunch at Hirere Falls. We continue onto a grassy plain known as the Prairie and gain spectacular views of Clinton Canyon. A rocky climb takes us to Marlene s Creek and then to Pompolona Lodge (10 miles/16km with 1,300ft/400m of ascent). Day 17: Pompolona Lodge Quintin Lodge via Mackinnon Pass Today we gain the upper reaches of the Clinton River passing Mirror Lake and Avalanche Creek, before the climb up the McKinnon Pass in a series of long zig-zags. At the top you will be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views. After lunch at Day 18: Quintin Lodge Mitre Peak via Sandfly Point The last day on the track itself takes us down a long steep hill named Gentle Annie where we gain views of the lovely Lady of the Snows, a distinctive mountain at the head of Green Valley. The route continues to Dumpling Hill, Sandy Flat, Racecourse Flat, Bell Rock, Mackay Falls, Giants Gate Waterfall and our final destination, Sandfly Point. We travel on to Mitre Peak Lodge for the end of walk celebrations (13 miles/21km with 400ft/125m of descent). Day 19: Milford - Te Anau After breakfast we board one of the famous red boats for an exploration of Milford Sound which is followed by a scenic coach ride back to Te Anau for an afternoon at leisure, prior to rejoining the main group. 9

10 Eglington Valleys. Descend to Lake Howden for a picnic lunch, before gradually climbing through lush silver beech forest to the base of Earland Falls. You will look over the Hollyford Valley and on to the glaciated Darran Mountains before descending to Lake Mackenzie and our lodge for the evening (9 miles/13km with 835ft/250m of ascent/descent). Routeburn Track option The Routeburn Guided Walk is a superb Alpine adventure through Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks. Day 15: to Te Anau Transfer to Te Anau and enjoy a cruise on Milford Sound. Your accommodation tonight will be in Te Anau. Your evening meal has not been included to give you the flexibility to explore. Day 16: Te Anau - The Divide to Lake Mackenzie Day 17: Lake Mackenzie to Routeburn Falls Today you have a full vista of the Darran Mountains across the Hollyford Valley, which slices through Fiordland to the distant Tasman Sea at Martins Bay. After lunch at the Harris Saddle (1,277m) you will ascend Conical Hill for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Walk around Lake Harris and descend to the Upper Basin of the Routeburn Valley. Spend your second night at the Routeburn Falls Lodge where you will be treated to a special celebration dinner (9 miles/15km with 1,000ft/300m of ascent and 1,670ft/500m of descent). We begin our walk from the Divide on the scenic Milford Road. From here, you climb a well graded track to Key Summit, where you can enjoy breath-taking views with a panorama of the Hollyford, Greenstone and Day 18: Routeburn Track to Routeburn Road & Queenstown Descend to the alpine pastures of the Routeburn Flats. The track shadows the river as it roars through a magnificent gorge. From here it s a gentle walk through columns 10

11 of red beech trees to the road end (6 miles/10km with 1,000ft/300m of descent). A coach will take you back to Queenstown for the evening, where you will re-join the group on day 20. Your evening meal has not been included tonight; there are many restaurants to choose from. Day 19: Free day in Queenstown We have only included breakfast today, giving you the freedom to explore the area. Day 20: Queenstown You will be picked up from the hotel at 11am to rejoin the group. Please note: Once booked, cancellation of the Track walks in New Zealand will incur additional charges. The tracks can be walked by anyone who is fit and in good health, aged from People over 70 are advised to consult their doctor to check physical fitness. Terrain varies considerably with some easy sections but there are some moderately steep climbs and descents. Included in the cost Coach transfer from Queenstown and return to Te Anau/Queenstown Fully catered lodges, hot evening meals, generous breakfasts Hot showers, soap and shampoo at lodges Toilets along the track Guide escort for duration of track walk, with briefings Daypack, raincoat, bedsheet, towel Comfortable lodge bunkrooms, with duvets, sheets, fresh towels and hairdryers. Please note: bunkrooms may be mixed sex Warming fires Excellent picnic lunches and afternoon teas Certificate of achievement and other extras Walkers carry their own bedsheet, picnic lunch and personal clothing each day. The Track operators supply a plastic pack liner, but it is recommended that clothes also be put in plastic bags for added rain protection. A small bag of clothing for use at Mitre Peak Lodge will be sent, by road, from Queenstown. Extras to take include handkerchiefs rather than tissues; a collapsible walking stick if you feel you might need support on the downhill sections, and a small torch as lights are put 11

12 out at 10pm in the lodges. Your main luggage will be waiting for you at the hotel in Te Anau. Accommodation This holiday encompasses a variety of locations on both islands from modern city hotels, to country lodges. The 3 and 4-star accommodation are chosen for their high standards, quality local food and excellent locations which make the most of their magnificent surroundings. We begin in Auckland with a 2-night stay at the modern Millennium Auckland Hotel. Centrally located, this large hotel offers comfortable rooms with a smart design. Moving on to Rotorua we stay at the Distinction chain of hotels (2 nights). Located near Whakarewarewa Forest, the hotel offers the perfect place to relax after a day exploring nearby attractions. Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool and spa. Chateau Tongariro, with its old-world charm and majestic mountain location accommodates us at the foot of Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro (2 nights). Rooms reflect the heritage of the hotel and provides some relaxation after a day s walking in the National Park. Facilities include sauna, indoor plunge pool, fitness centre and in-house cinema. 12

13 Enjoy a one-night stay at the Novotel in Wellington before crossing over to South Island, where we are welcomed at our hotel in Christchurch Elms Hotel or Chateaux on the Park (1 night). Our next stop is the Scenic Hotel (1 night) at Franz Josef. We enjoy comfortable cosy rooms in the stunning surroundings of the Westland World Heritage Park. Facilities include a spa pool. Our journey takes us to Hokitika and the Beachfront Hotel (1 night), where we're greeted by breathtaking ocean views. All rooms are modern, with en-suite bathrooms, tea/coffee-making facilities, TV and WIFI. On certain dates we may be accommodated at the Punakaiki Resort in Hokitika. In Queenstown, we stay at the Copthorne Hotel (4 nights). Set in a stunning location, we enjoy the best of both worlds, only a short stroll from any activities and from the town centre. All rooms have TV, tea and coffee making facilities, refrigerator and minibar. 13

14 Our next accommodation is the lakefront Distinction Hotel in Te Anau (3 nights). Our final stop is Christchurch where we are welcomed back to the Elms Hotel or Chateaux on the Park (2 nights), before our flight home. At Twizel we stay at the MacKenzie Country Inn (2 nights). All rooms have fantastic mountain views of the Southern Alps and Mount Cook. The welcome glow of the roaring fires in the lounge areas make for an excellent place to relax after your walks. 14

15 requirements are subject to change; please check with your consulate before you travel. We would advise that you check your government s travel advisory before travelling. For UK travellers, please check In all instances during your holiday, your first point of contact should be your HF Holidays leader or local leader. If for any reason this is not possible, HF Holidays emergency contact details are as follows: Mon - Fri 9am - 7pm Tel or +44(0) (from overseas) Fri - Mon 7pm - 9am Tel +44 (0) Airport parking & accommodation If you require airport parking or accommodation before your flight, we recommend our partner Holiday Extras. Call and quote HX031 or book online at Before your holiday We hope you find this information comprehensive if not please visit our website for more details or contact us. All details correct at time of writing (Revised April 2018). Passport and visa Suggested Kit List Please try to keep luggage to a minimum as you will need to carry it yourself at airports and between your transport and your hotel. Walking boots (worn in) with good ankle support and spare bootlaces. 15

16 NB Boots must be clean of soil/mud before entering NZ immigration Walking sandals Walking socks Lightweight fleece Lightweight waterproof trousers and jacket Shorts Long trousers and long-sleeved light coloured shirts with collars to protect from the sun your clothing should ideally be pre-treated with insect repellent and in-built sun protection (available from specialist clothing stores such as Rohan, Cotswold Outdoor) Sun hat Comfortable clothes and shoes for evenings and sightseeing Sun protection sunglasses, high factor sunscreen and lip protection Water bottle at least 2 litre capacity Lightweight survival bag Small/medium rucksack (30 litre) a bin liner will keep contents dry if it rains Insect repellent Universal adaptor plug Personal first aid kit including: personal medication, tissues, plasters, blister kit, painkillers, antiseptic wipes, Imodium, rehydration sachets Passport (and copies); booking confirmation; insurance cover note; HF Holidays registration form Optional: trekking poles, camera, umbrella, binoculars, swimming costume, snorkelling gear and towel. Please ensure you have access to emergency funds should you need them; carrying a credit card is probably the most convenient method. Please note that your HF Holidays leader reserves the right to refuse to take any guest on a walk should they consider that a lack of suitable clothing/footwear may affect safety. Baggage allowance 1 piece checked-in luggage (max 23kg). Please check details of your airline s baggage allowance, as shown on your e-ticket. Remember to also check any connecting flights you may have booked. Passports & visas Passports must be valid for at least three months after leaving New Zealand. Visas are not required for UK, Australian, Canadian and US passport holders. Other countries should consult the embassy for advice. Our with-flight option currently transits via Sydney, but if you are transiting via the USA, you will need a visa or ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation). No visa is required by citizens with full right of residence in visa waiver programme (VWP) countries. This includes UK, Australia, New Zealand please see for details of other countries included in the VWP. Citizens of VWP countries are required to obtain travel authorisation prior to travel. You can register for authorisation online through the website above. The return flight connects through Sydney where there is a connection time of approx 6 hours. Should there be a scheduled flight change which means that time in Sydney exceeds 8 hours, you will need to apply for an Australian visa. Canadian and US citizens require an ETA (electronic travel authorisation). These must be applied for in advance, and cost AUS $20. Please go to or consult your embassy for advice. British and EU passport holders need an evisitor visa (subclass 651). To do this you need to create an Immiaccount via 16

17 There is no charge for an evisitor visa. Please see for further information. Alternatively you can buy one on check in at Christchurch, which will cost approx $NZ 50. This visa allows you to leave the airport in Sydney. Travel insurance If arranging your own travel insurance, please ensure it is adequate for your specific itinerary. Health advice This is subject to change and we would highly recommend that you consult your doctor before travelling. Please note: the use or possession of some common prescription or over-the-counter medicines is banned in some countries. If you will be carrying medication, please check with the country s embassy/ consulate prior to travel. As an extra precaution: Keep your medication in its original packet Take a copy of your prescription too If possible, ask your chemist to write the name of your medication in the language of the country that you re visiting Dietary requirements Please contact us as far in advance as possible if you have any specific dietary requirements. We will do our best to accommodate you. If you require a specific meal on the flight, please let us know as soon as possible, and no later than 96 hours before travel. Travel tips for a comfortable flight We ve put together a few simple tips to help make your flight as comfortable as possible, ensuring you begin your holiday in tip-top shape. Move about. Change position and avoid crossing your legs. Immobility poses the greatest risk in the development of clotting disorders. Get out of your seat and walk around as regularly as possible to improve circulation No pills. Unless advised by your doctor, do not take sleeping tablets on the flight; this will reduce your mobility and make you feel sluggish Protect your ears. If you experience discomfort due to the cabin pressure changes, suck a sweet, chew, or hold your nostrils and gently blow through your nose; this should equalise the pressure. If you still experience problems, speak to a member of the cabin crew Drink plenty. Ask a member of the cabin crew if you are thirsty. Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee or carbonated drinks as these will dehydrate you. Instead, try to drink plenty of fruit juices or water Eat light. Avoid heavy meals and foods air expands at altitude and heavy meals will result in that bloated feeling Moisturise. Your skin, especially your lips and nostrils, may feel dry so moisturising creams may help. If you wear contact lenses, always carry your glasses with you, as your eyes may feel dryer than usual Stay loose. Wear loose fitting, comfortable shoes and clothes Flight socks are recommended to help prevent DVT on long-haul flights Lost/damaged luggage If your bag or its contents are damaged or lost while in the airline s care, this should be reported to the baggage service agents at the airport. They will assess the damage and 17

18 in some cases the airline may decide to settle your claim immediately. You will be given a reference to quote to your insurance company if settlement cannot be reached. In many cases baggage claims can only be accepted in writing. A baggage claim form must be obtained from the airport. HF Holidays with-flight guests For those travelling on our HF Holidays group flight, please proceed to the arrivals hall once you have passed through passport control, customs and baggage reclaim, when you arrive at your destination. Your leader or local leader will assemble the group in the arrivals hall. Look out for the HF Holidays sign. Independent travellers If you are arriving ahead of the group, and are meeting them at the first hotel, please leave a message at the hotel reception for the HF Holidays leader or local leader, detailing your room number, and a mobile telephone number if possible. The leader will contact you once the group arrives. If you are arriving after the group, a message will be left for you at the hotel reception, welcoming you and giving details of the time and place to meet the group. If your flight arrives before the group flight and you would like to join the transfer to the first hotel, please contact our Abroad Administration team on (0) They will have a list of the relevant transfer costs. Safety on your holiday Once you have made your booking, you will receive a pre-holiday questionnaire where we ask for details of next of kin, and insurance details. We need to have this from you at least 4 weeks before travel. Please also inform us of any medical situation which may affect your enjoyment of the holiday Please listen to any safety instructions from the leader Keep group members in view, especially if weather or visibility is poor If you become separated from the group, please stay where you are, the leader will retrace their steps to find you Each leader carries a first aid kit but is not allowed to supply any medication including aspirin, paracetamol, antihistamines, and antiseptic cream. You may wish to bring these items with you In the unlikely event that your leader is incapacitated, please use any emergency kit in their rucksack and call emergency services on 111. Please then call our emergency number (see page 12) and let us know there is a problem. Tipping Tips have been included in your holiday price for key services such as local guides/ driver/restaurants. Any additional tips are at your own discretion. Climate All our holidays are planned around the New Zealand spring, summer and early autumn when all routes are open, and the days are long. The warmest weather is likely to be from November to February although October and March are also excellent times to travel with fewer tourists and superb mountain flora. Local currency & money matters New Zealand Dollars (NZD). Credit cards widely accepted. ATMs are widely available and the easiest way to access cash. Traveller s cheques are not advised. Suggested reading and maps 18

19 2016 Lonely Planet New Zealand Dan Coxon Ka Mate: Travels in New Zealand Witi Ihimaera The Whale Rider Maps can be obtained in advance from The Mapshop 230V, flat 3 pin plugs Electricity Group size Maximum group size is 22 guests plus HF leader GMT/UTC +12 hours Time difference HF Holidays Ltd, Catalyst House, Centennial Court, Elstree, Borehamwood, WD6 3SY, UK 19