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Meet your tour at Haka Lodge Queenstown, 6 Henry Street, Queenstown at 6am on Day 1. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure. The tour finishes on arrival to Christchurch on Day 7 at approximately 8pm.

The beauty of this group style of travel is that it caters to travellers who are travelling solo and who want to meet and share experiences with like-minded people.

Rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. Solo travellers will be paired with another traveller of the same gender.

There is also an optional single supplement available on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. 

The skiing/snowboarding on this trip takes place on mostly commercial ski centres that feature chairlifts, gondolas, groomed snow, etc.) and are suitable for beginner to advanced skiers or snowboarders. It is usual to spend anywhere from 3-5 hours on the slopes, so a good level of fitness is required. 2 free ski/snowboarding lessons are included. Beginners can purchase additional extra lessons at an extra cost.

To save you from having to pack all your ski gear, especially if coming from overseas, you have the option to hire an extensive selection of equipment and winter/ski clothing directly through The Operator.

Equipment Hire options include:
• Skis (hire includes boots and poles)
• Snowboard (hire includes boots)
• Helmet

The Clothing hire option includes snow pants, a jacket and goggles which you keep for the duration of the trip.

Equipment will be hired on the morning of day one and you will have the same gear for the duration of the tour which means you can get used to it and hence progress much quicker. And best of all we’ll always arrange the return of the rental gear for you so you don't have to worry!
 

All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity).

Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent.

It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going

Yes, travel insurance is compulsory on this trip.

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

You can have a plate of food for a street vendor for AU$10-$20, however there are always more expensive options. From a mid-range, sit-down restaurant, expect to pay AU$20-$40- not including alcohol.

PACKING
On this trip you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight under 10kg / 22lb. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are likely to encounter while carrying your luggage. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips. 

TRAVELLING ON LOCAL TRANSPORT
It's important that your bags can be locked, as on local transport it may be necessary that your luggage gets stowed separately (and unattended). The smaller your bag the better for you and other passengers. To ensure maximum comfort, try to pack small and light.

WATER BOTTLE
Please bring your own water bottle to refill along the way. Although it can be difficult to avoid bottled water when travelling, please use the water dispensers which are provided on some of our vehicles and at some of our accommodation. Your group leader or local representative will advise whether tap water is safe to drink in your destination and if it is you can simply refill with tap water. When unable to avoid bottled water it is better to buy the largest available and distribute into your smaller bottle for the day. If you are walking or trekking as part of your trip you will need to carry at least 2L of water with you.

Due to limited vehicle space and strictly enforced road laws regarding weight limits, your main piece of luggage must be soft-sided and weigh no more than 15kg/33lb. You can also bring a day pack/bag to carry water, camera, sunscreen, etc when you’re exploring during the day.

Hostel dorm share accommodation, shared facilities (6 nights)

Accommodation is on a multi-share basis in high-end hostel accommodation (6-bed dorm share as standard)

Private room upgrades can be requested at the time of booking, but may not apply to all nights on the trip.

An optional single supplement is available on this trip (on request). This includes all nights

To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, not all meals are included in the trip price. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let The Operator know prior to departure.

Vegetarians and Vegans are well catered for in New Zealand and most restaurants and cafes will have a good selection of vegetarian meals. Gluten and Lactose-free diets are also well-catered for.