Itinerary. with minimal ascent. On a few days there are also optional harder walks of up to 10 miles (16km) and 2,550 feet (780m) of ascent.

Transcription

1 New Zealand Grand Discovery

2 Itinerary with minimal ascent. On a few days there are also optional harder walks 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 Our 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) Day 3: Arrive Auckland 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 however recommend that you stay awake as long as possible towards a normal bedtime, as this will help prevent too much jet lag. Accommodation: Millenium Auckland Hotel (2 nights) Meals included: dinner 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 for a walk through the lava fields and bush to its summit for spectacular views. (3 miles (4.5km) return with 860ft (260m) of ascent/descent). The return launch trip is via Devonport. 2

3 Day 5: Waitomo and on to Rotorua (220 miles/352km). We drive via Hamilton to Rotorua, visiting en route the Waitomo Caves, with their glowworm grotto. Rotorua is an important area of geo-thermal activity and also rich in Maori culture. Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua (2 nights), Day 6: Rotorua Day 7: Tongariro (110 miles/177km). This morning we visit Te Puia, the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute (and Thermal Reserve). A leisurely morning drive then takes us past Lake Taupo, New Zealand s largest lake, to the Tongariro National Park where we will stay for two nights. The park is home to three volcanic peaks: Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. Accommodation: Chateau Tongariro (2 nights) Day 8: Tongariro National Park A visit to Whakarewarewa Forest Park and a marvellous outing to the Waimangu Valley, created by the eruption of Mount Tarawera in The walk passes such attractions as the Waimangu Cauldron (a pale blue lake steaming at 53 C), Echo Crater and Cathedral Rock, before reaching the shores of Lake Rotomahana (3 miles (4.5km). Here we cruise to Lake Tarawera and walk to the buried village of Te Wairoa. In the evening, entertainment will be a concert and traditional Maori Hangi. We ll offer a selection of walks depending on local conditions and the group s interests, which may 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) with 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) with 1,440ft (440m) of ascent/descent). Tongariro Crossing: If weather conditions are favourable, it may be possible to undertake the complete Tongariro Crossing, often described as the best one day walk in New Zealand (10 miles (16km) with 2,550ft (780m) of ascent and 3,700ft (1,130m) of descent). 3

4 (210 miles/337km). This morning, we cross by Interislander ferry to Picton on South Island. More of a cruise than a ferry crossing, the journey takes us across the Cook Strait, through the Tory Channel and Queen Charlotte Sound, and lasts just over 3 hours. Onward journey by coach takes us alongside the scenic Pacific coast via Kaikoura to Christchurch. Day 9: Wellington (208 miles/332km). We leave the National Park, we travel to Wellington, for sightseeing in the Capital City. We ll take the Cable Car to the Kelburn lookout for outstanding views of the city and harbour. We ll walk back through the Botanical Gardens to the harbourside to visit Te Papa, New Zealand s National Museum, and there will be options for free time in the city, or to visit Weta Cave (Lord of the Rings workshops) and Zealandia, a wildlife sanctuary. Accommodation: James Cook Grand Chancellor Hotel (1 night) Or Novotel Wellington Day 10: Interislander cruise and travel to Christchurch Please note, State Highway 1 between Picton/ Kaikoura/ Christchurch is scheduled to re-open in December Should this re-opening be delayed for any reason an alternative route may be inland via Lewis Pass. Accommodation: Elms Quality Hotel (1 night) 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 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 in the park before continuing by coach to the West Coast and our overnight. Beachfront Hotel Hokitika (1 night) or Punakaiki Resort Day 12: Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers (118 miles/189km). We travel south to Fox Glacier, stopping en route at Franz Josef. Stretching from the peaks of the 4

5 Southern Alps down to lush rainforest just 200m above sea level, the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are an awesome sight. They are part of the Westland National Park which, together with Mount Cook, has been honoured as a World Heritage Park. There may be an afternoon walk to the glaciers and the possibility of an optional helicopter flight. In the afternoon we may have short stops at Lake Paringa, Monroe Beach or Haast. Franz Josef glacier walk (3 miles (5km) Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef (1 night) Day 13: To Queenstown (218 miles/348km). From Fox, we travel past deserted beaches, through vibrant rainforests and tiny settlements, and on through the Haast Pass to Queenstown, the Switzerland of the Southern Hemisphere. Our first stop is at Lake Matheson, for a walk through Kakikatea, Korimiku and Lacewood forest, along the water s edge. The lake produces brilliant reflections of the Southern Alps in the early mornings (1 mile (2km) return). Accommodation: Copthorne Lake Front Hotel (4nights) Days 14-16: Queenstown area There will be a variety of walks and activities in this spectacular region. The first day in Queenstown is free for exploration, activities or simply to 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 5

6 (645m) of ascent and 3,465ft (1,060m) of descent). Lake Dispute and Moke Lake: 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). Bowen Falls. There is a good chance of seeing dolphins and seals. We enjoy short walks en route to Milford at Mackay Creek, Mirror Lake and Lake Gunn. Day 17: To Te Anau (116 miles/186km). A short drive south to Te Anau, our base in the Fiordland National Park. 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)). Accommodation: Distinction Te Anau Hotel (3 nights) Day 18: Te Anau There will be a selection of walks today depending upon the group s interests and local conditions: a leisurely walk to Rainbow Reach or around Lake Gunn, or a higher level walk on the Routeburn Track. 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. A launch trip on the deep waters between sheer cliffs affords wonderful views of mile-high Mitre Peak and the Day 20: Twizel (248 miles/396km). We leave Te Anau to travel to the picturesque gold rush village of Arrowtown, from where we continue into the legendary MacKenzie Country. Here we stay in Twizel near Mount Cook. Accommodation: MacKenzie Country Inn, Omarama (2 nights) Day 21: Around Mount Cook We spend the 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. 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 3,050m. 6

7 Hooker Valley: This popular route leads towards Mount Cook, crossing three swing bridges, and continues to the terminal of the Hooker Glacier (9 miles (14km) return with 440ft (135m) of ascent (shorter options available)). Day 22: Christchurch (170 miles/272km). The final journey of our holiday takes us north, pausing at the church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapo. At Tekapo we will ascend Mt John for superb views. We cross Burke s Pass and drive across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch, the ideal place to relax at the end of our tour. Please note: Christchurch city has begun to rebuild after the earthquake of February Our itinerary in Christchurch will be subject to guidance from the city authorities and our local agents as some areas of the city are likely to be closed to the public for some considerable time. 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 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: breakfast 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 Downs An early morning journey from Queenstown to Te Anau. There is the opportunity for a group photo. We take an afternoon scenic cruise to Glade House for our overnight stay (1 mile (1.5km) with 130ft (40m of ascent). Day 16: Milford Track We cross the 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). 7

8 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. Day 17: Milford Track Today we gain the upper reaches of the Clinton River passing Mirror Lake and Avalanche Creek, before the slow climb up the McKinnon Pass in a series of long zig-zags. After lunch at 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). Day 18: Milford Track 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 the 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). Included in the cost Coach transfer from Queenstown and return to Te Anau 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 Last night at Mitre Peak Lodge Certificate of achievement and other extras Walkers carry their own sheet, 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 8

9 need support on the downhill sections, and a small torch as lights are put out at 10pm in the lodges. Your main luggage will be waiting for you at the hotel in Te Anau. 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 ccommodation 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 - Lake Mackenzie 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). 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 can 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. From here you climb a well graded track to KeySummit, where you can enjoy breathtaking Routeburn views with a panorama of the Hollyford, Greenstone and 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 Day 18: Routeburn Track and on to 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 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 9

10 the evening. 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. 10

11 Accommodation This holiday encompasses a large area with a variety of different locations. From modern city hotels, to country lodges, the 3 and 4-star hotels are chosen for their high standards, good food, suitability for groups and excellent locations. We begin in Auckland with a 2 night stay at the modern, central Millenium Auckland Hotel (previously Grand Rendezvous Hotel). Rooms are comfortable and you can use the pool and gym facilities. Tel , Enjoy a one night stay at the James Cook Chancellor or Novotel in Wellington before crossing over to South Island, where we are welcomed at our hotel in Christchurch Elms Hotel for 1 night. Our journey takes us to Hokitika and the Beachfront Hotel (1 night), where we're greeted by breathtaking ocean views. Tel , Moving on to Rotorua we make use of the Distinction chain of hotels (2 nights), again with swimming pool, spa and sauna. Tel , The Chateau Tongariro, with its oldworld charm and majestic mountain location, accommodates us at the foot of Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro (2 nights). All rooms are modern, with en-suite bathrooms, tea/coffee-making facilities, TV and WiFi. Tel Our next stop is the Scenic Hotel (1 night) at Franz Josef, where we enjoy comfortable cosy rooms in this stunning setting. There is a swimming pool here too. 11

12 Tel In Queenstown, we're 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, iron and ironing board, and hair dryer. have fabulous mountain views of the Southern Alps and Mount Cook from the patio or balcony. The welcome glow of the roaring fires in the lounge areas makes an excellent place to relax after your walks too. Tel , Tel , equeenstownlakefront Our next accommodation is the lakefront Distinction Hotel in Te Anau (3 nights). Our final stop is Christchurch where we are welcomed at the Elms Hotel (2 nights), before our flight home. The rooms are all en-suite and have tea/coffee making facilities, fridge, telephone, Sky TV, hair dryer, iron/ironing board etc. (or Chateau on the Park hotel) Tel , Tel , At Twizel we stay at the MacKenzie Country Inn (2 nights). All rooms here 12

13 Before your holiday We hope you find this information comprehensive if not please visit our website for more details or contact us. 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. All details correct at time of writing (Revised Apr 2017). Passport and visa 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 Walking boots (worn in) with good ankle support and spare bootlaces. 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 pretreated 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 Soap and hand sanitizer gel Insect repellent Universal adaptor plug Universal sink plug Personal first aid kit including: personal medication, tissues, plasters, blister kit, painkillers, 13

14 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 Singapore, 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 (electonic 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 There is no charge for an evisitor visa. Please see 1/651- 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. 14

15 For further information on country specific advice, visit or Tetanus vaccine is recommended. Please note: the use or possession of some common prescription or overthe-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 longhaul 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 in some cases the airline may decide to settle your claim immediately. You will be given a 15

16 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. 16

17 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 2014 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 Electricity 230V, flat 3 pin plugs 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 17