Details
Frequently Asked Questions
Please read our general
FAQs, where you can find essential information that applies to all of our programs.
Resources to Learn & Teach
Visit our
recommended reading page to see the list of books GEEO recommends reading before your program (this is not required reading). We also have
lesson plans and
Pinterest boards that may be useful for you as you learn about your destination and prepare to bring lessons back to your classroom.
Terms and Conditions
The terms and conditions for our New Zealand program have earlier payment requirements than our standard programs. Here are our standard
Terms and Conditions.
For New Zealand, an initial deposit of $350 is collected upon registration, 50% of the remaining balance will be charged on
April 12th, and the final balance will be charged on
June 11th. There are also different cancelation terms for New Zealand, which can be seen below.
GEEO Program Confirmation Process
We require a minimum of 6 participants for most GEEO programs. We officially confirm that a program will run once at least 8 people have signed up, which provides a margin for individual cancellations. Nearly all GEEO programs ultimately meet this enrollment quota, and in the rare event that a program does not meet the minimum requirement and GEEO cancels the program, we will work with you to find a suitable alternative or provide a refund of your deposit if you prefer. We encourage you to sign up for any program that interests you, and we will notify the entire group once 6 people are booked and again once 8 people are booked. We always emphasize the importance of exercising caution when making non-refundable travel arrangements, especially given the unpredictable nature of travel. For example, we typically recommend booking flights with flexible change/cancellation policies.
Cancellation Policy
All cancellations must be submitted to GEEO in written form by emailing your request for cancellation to
travel@geeo.org. If you do not receive a confirmation that we have received your cancellation request, please call us at 1-877-600-0105.
- If you cancel 181 days or more prior to the start of your program, all your program fee payments will be refunded excluding your $350 deposit, which is kept on file for future use and never expires.
- If you cancel between 180 and 120 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive a 50% refund and your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.
- If you cancel within 120 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive no refund, but your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.
Trip Notes
- Please note that some sites, museums, and restaurants may be closed over Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. It is recommended that you check the operating hours of any sites or establishments that you plan to visit to avoid disappointment. It is also common for prices for meals and other services to increase during peak tourist seasons or holidays, including Christmas and New Year’s. Additionally, we may need to alter the itinerary on and around these holidays to maximize your time during your trip. Hopefully, you will be able to experience some local customs and traditions and see how people in other parts of the world experience the holidays. Traveling over Christmas and New Year’s can allow you to see a destination in a different light. You may be able to attend local festivals, try traditional foods, see special decorations, and participate in cultural activities that can add an extra layer of festivity and cheer to your trip. Overall, traveling over the holidays can be a fun and rewarding way to learn about and experience another culture.
- Please note that the train on the south island is seasonal and does not run from May to September. Day 6 and 7 transportation will be a public bus during this time period instead of a train.
- Please be aware that wifi and internet access is not as readily available in New Zealand as in other parts of the world. There are often additional charges to connect to the internet, and speeds may be slower than what you are used to.
- Over public holidays in Australia and New Zealand (such as Christmas, New Year's Day, Easter, and Anzac Day) there may be some limitations of services and disruptions to schedules. In general, our tours still operate effectively over public holidays, but there may be closures of optional activities and restaurants, and slight itinerary adjustments in order to provide all tour inclusions.
Group Leader Description
All GEEO/G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of G Adventure’s group leaders, which they refer to as Chief Experience Officers (CEOs). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, and introduce you to our local friends. Our itineraries often have plenty of free time to explore on your own.
While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting – we think it’s the best of both worlds.
Fitness Level
This trip includes light walking and hiking that is suitable for most fitness levels. In the cities, you can split apart from the group to go at your own pace. Getting on and off transport and walking with luggage requires some physical effort. Some optional tours may include hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking.
Single Travelers
Half of GEEO’s participants travel by themselves, so please don’t worry if you do not have a travel companion for your trip. Our program fee is for one traveler in double-occupancy accommodation, and GEEO can find you a roommate of the same gender if you do not have a travel companion. Most of our programs have a “My Own Room” option, also known as a “Single Supplement,” which is an extra fee that you can pay to have a room to yourself. You will only incur an additional charge if you specifically request a single room. To see the price for the “My Own Room” option, please find your program on our
extra services page. If you want to room alone, please email
travel@geeo.org to request a single room.
Please note that if you have booked the My Own Room option, on Night 2 there may be shared facilities (cottage-style accommodation), but you will have your own room.
Emergency Contacts
Should you need to contact G Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call their local office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so that they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
G Adventures Local Office and after office hours emergency number
From outside Australia: +64 27 535 0007
From within Australia: 0432 705 621
If for any reason you are unable to reach the G Adventures local office, please call the numbers listed below to connect with their Sales team, who will happily assist you.
Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100
Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000
Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618
Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307
Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
Packing List
Please
read this article on GEEO’s blog for our staff’s suggestions on the best gear to pack for your upcoming travels. You must be prepared to carry your own bags and be comfortable carrying them up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels. As a rule, we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags, which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 22-30 lb. Most travelers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size. No XXL bags please! A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person plus a daypack per person.
Suggested Checklist
- Raincoat and/or umbrella
- Personal clothing for warm weather – we recommend packing 7-8 days of outfits so you only have to do laundry once
- Sturdy walking shoes
- Daypack
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Water bottle
- Watch or alarm clock (or use your phone)
- Toiletries – important: some hotels do not give you soap and shampoo
- Camera (or use your phone)
- First-aid kit, including: lip salve, aspirin, bandaids, anti-histamine, Dramamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, electrolyte powder, insect repellent, extra prescription drugs you may be taking
Optional Checklist
- Travel pillow
- Money belt
- Phone/tablet for internet – most hotels have WiFi
- Chargers for electronics as well as converters/adapters, if needed
- AirTags or Tile trackers
- Packing cubes
- Earplugs
- Snacks – packing a few granola bars is a good idea; you can also buy snacks when you get there, so don’t go crazy here
- Ziplock bags
- Reading/writing material
- Hand sanitizer/baby wipes
Document Checklist
- Passport (with photocopies)
- Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
- Travel insurance ID card
- Flight itinerary/boarding pass(es)
- USD/EUR cash
- Credit/debit card
- G Adventures vouchers
- GEEO Classroom action plans for your group – this is sent a few days before departure
Laundry
Laundry facilities are offered at some of our hotels for a charge, or ask your group leader where the nearest laundromat is located.
Passports and Visas
All GEEO trips require that the participant have a valid passport. Please see our general
FAQ for information on obtaining a passport. As with all of our trips, we try to provide the most accurate information we can, but governments sometimes change visa rules. It is your responsibility to double-check the information we provide below by searching
here.
As of October 1, 2019, U.S. citizens traveling to New Zealand need to apply for an e-Visa. Please see the
US State Department entry, exit, & visa requirements for New Zealand and the
New Zealand Embassy for detailed visa application instructions.
GEEO travelers who are not U.S. citizens should check with their government to determine visa requirements.
Money Exchange
The local currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). As currency exchange rates fluctuate, we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com.
We recommend that you obtain cash from ATMs while traveling; they will dispense the local currency. We do, however, recommend that you bring at least $200 USD in cash for emergency use or in case you have trouble with the ATMs. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops, but you may be charged an international transaction fee; ask your financial institution about their international fees. Please note that if you are carrying U.S. dollars, the bills should be in good condition (i.e., not torn, wrinkled, or marked on in any way) and dated recently.
Tipping
It is not customary in New Zealand to tip service providers. Unless specifically asked to do so (by your tour leader), do not tip your local guides. At the end of your program, if you felt your G Adventures tour leader did an outstanding job, you may consider a small tip – but it certainly isn’t expected.
Vaccinations
GEEO cannot provide any medical advice, so it is very important to consult your doctor or a travel clinic about which vaccinations you will need for your trip. We recommend contacting Passport Health (http://www.passporthealthusa.com/), which has travel clinics located throughout the United States. You can also check the
CDC's recommended vaccinations for your destination. Please take this seriously!
Flights
We find the best prices for flights are often available 60 days before departure, but of course this varies greatly from route to route and year to year.
We advise that you wait until this trip is confirmed before booking non-refundable and non-changeable flights. GEEO and G Adventures bear no responsibility for any flights purchased before the trip is confirmed.
This program begins in Auckland and ends in Christchurch. Please double-check our itinerary for the date by which you must arrive in Auckland. You may want to arrive in New Zealand one or more days early in case you have flight disruptions. You can arrive at any time you choose, but try to make it in time for our 6:00 p.m. Welcome Meeting on Day 1. You can depart from Christchurch any time on the final day of the program, or stay later to see more of the city.
Plugs and Converters
There are two components to provide external power to your device: adapters and transformers (also called electrical converters). The adapter is for your device's plug, adapting the prongs on a standard U.S. two- to three-pronged power cord to fit the local outlets. The transformer/converter changes the local voltage to the voltage used in the U.S.
New Zealand uses a Type I plug, which has 2 or three angled flat prongs so you will need a plug adaptor. The voltage is mostly 230V. (Standard U.S. electrical outlets are 120V.) Most new devices, including phones and laptops, are made to work with the different voltage rates, but some devices, like hair dryers, may only work on the U.S. standard of 120V. Check your device's plug or manual to see what voltage range it requires. Most transformer blocks will have an “Input” line that defines its voltage capacity; for example, “Input: 100-240V” means that it will work with voltages between 100V to 240V. If your device can’t handle the higher voltage, you’ll need to purchase a transformer/converter. You can find world transformers/converters online or at many retail stores in the travel section.
Expectations
Before you decide to travel with GEEO, it is important that you read all of the information about the program you are considering. Remember, our programs are quite adventurous.
- The purpose of the accommodation is to provide a safe place for you to sleep. Sometimes you will be pleasantly surprised, but do not expect luxury. Sometimes the accommodation is not air-conditioned.
- We use a mix of transportation that gets our guests from location to location safely. Sometimes you will have full days and nights of transportation as our trips tend to cover a lot of ground. The transportation will often be an adventure in itself.
- You must be able to easily carry or roll your luggage, so do not over-pack.
- Many of our programs occur in locations where it is very hot during the day. Please make sure you have thoroughly read the itinerary and can handle the group activities, which sometimes include day hikes with your daypacks.
- We recommend always carrying snacks with you. Meals can sometimes be far apart.
- Please make sure you understand the role of your tour leader on this trip as they are not the traditional “guide” you may be expecting. While our trips are educational, they aren’t study/lecture trips. We want you to learn through exploring, and much of your experience will be based on how active you choose to be in acquiring knowledge and interacting with locals.
Hopefully this is the kind of adventure you are interested in!
Weather
New Zealand sees the arrival of cooler spring temperatures in October. The North Island, including places like Auckland, will have mild weather with occasional rain showers, while in the South Island temperatures can be cooler especially in mountainous areas like Fiordland National Park and Queenstown. Pack layers that include warm clothing, and be prepared for variable weather as you enjoy the beauty and outdoor adventures in this incredible country.
Costs
Please keep in mind that this trip offers some free time to pursue activities that interest you. Make sure you look over all of the optional activities and note these additional costs when deciding whether you can afford this program. The prices below are rough estimates for budgeting your trip.
Tour Company Fee
See our price in the top right corner
Optional Activities
$100-600 USD, depending on how many optional activities you choose to do
International Airfare from the United States
Roughly $1,000-1,700 USD
If you require assistance in booking your international airfare, we would be happy to help you.
Airport Transfers
$50-100 USD
Insurance
$79-200 USD
Please note: It is mandatory for all of our travelers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of $200,000 USD. We also strongly recommend purchasing cancellation insurance as an add-on.
Tipping
Tipping is optional and not expected, but we recommend $40-50 for budgeting purposes.
Meals Not Listed in the Itinerary
$300-600 USD
Visa
Approx. $47 for an NZeTA
Laundry, Drinks, Phone Calls, etc.
Make sure you budget for these types of expenses
Vaccines
Variable. Please consult your doctor.
Souvenirs
Variable. At your personal discretion.
Non-Educator Donation
$100 USD (suggested donation)
This is only for non-educator guests traveling with an educator on a GEEO trip. Educators and retired educators should not make this donation.
Optional Activities
Most optional activities are booked and paid for locally, sometimes in the local currency, and you do not have to decide in advance which ones you would like to sign up for. The prices listed are based on the latest information we have received from our participants and G Adventures. They are not guaranteed to be accurate. Please use them as a rough guide for budgeting your trip.
Auckland
Auckland Sailing: America's Cup Experience (Pre Tour): $230 USD per person
As part of the boat crew, you'll work together with your teammates to sail around Auckland's Waitemata Harbour in this competitive yacht. Either take the helm and participate or sit back and enjoy the spectacle - the choice is yours.
Maritime Museum: 20 NZD per person
Tour the museum’s seven galleries to learn more about New Zealand’s relationship with the sea. Be inspired by the country's most celebrated mariner, Sir Peter Blake, and his many accomplishments, and see maritime art that speaks to the sentiment of a nautical nation.
Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island Excursion: 45-130 NZD per person
Take a ferry ride to Waiheke Island for a quick, fun getaway. Swim or kayak at white-sand beaches in the Hauraki Gulf. Tour the island's tracks and bush reserves, or sample your way through some of the island’s 19 boutique wineries (the island produces some of New Zealand’s finest reds).
Hahei
Hahei Boat Cruise: 105 NZD per person
Hop on board and cruise the coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. Check out caves, and an impressive blowhole, and enjoy views of stunning Cathedral Cove from the water. Keep on the lookout for marine life such as dolphins, seals, and seabirds.
Sea Kayaking: 135 NZD per person
Head out by kayak to experience the Coromandel from sea level.
Rotorua
Whitewater Rafting: 109 NZD per person
Get your adrenaline fix on this exhilarating white water rafting trip. Enjoy the amazing scenery along the way, but don't forget to paddle!
Hot Springs: 30-50 NZD per person
Soak tired muscles in the area's natural hot springs and let the mineral water work its magic. Rotorua is home to several amazing geothermal parks – be sure you don't miss the healing and relaxing benefits of the city's naturally heated waters.
Mountain Biking: 35-130 NZD per person
Head out on an exhilarating cycling adventure. Explore the stunning Redwood Forest on two wheels on what some call the world's best mountain biking trails. Whether you're a beginner or an expert mountain bike enthusiast there's sure to be a trail perfect for you.
Zorbing: 35-50 NZD per person
Hop into a giant inflatable ball and take a thrilling ride down Mt Ngongotaha. This outrageously fun and bizarre ride is a must-do when in Rotorua, so don't miss out!
Wellington
Te Papa Museum: Free
Visit this must-see museum, home to displays of historical Maori artifacts and modern exhibits. See how the museum is constructed on shock absorbers to withstand New Zealand’s many earthquakes – find the stairwell just outside the entrance and descend into the foundations of the building.
Wellington Cable Car: 4-7.50 NZD per person
Zealandia: 9-95 NZD per person
Martinborough Wine Tour: 199 NZD per person
Weta Workshop Tour: 50-90 NZD per person
This 2 to 3-hour guided tour will give you a unique behind-the-scenes look at how the Weta workshop helps craft and create the imaginary realities of some of the world’s biggest films. Get to see creativity in action as the workshop crew members practice their trade and get up close and personal with props from The Lord of the Rings, The Chronicles of Narnia, and so much more!
Kaikoura
Scenic Flight: 190 NZD per person
Take a 30-minute flight and set off to search for whales, dolphins, and other marine life. On land, you'll see Maori sites, Kaikoura town, and New Zealand's southern fur seals.
Hiking: Free
Set off along one of many hiking trails to take in the beautiful scenery along the Kaikoura Peninsula walkway.
Whale Watching: 145 NZD per person
Follow in the path of Paikea, the Maori "whale rider", and set out in search of Giant Sperm Whales as they spray and dive their way through the waters off Kaikoura.
Swimming With Dolphins: 220 NZD per person
Hop aboard a boat and head out to the open seas to search for wild dusky dolphins. Depending on the conditions, most groups have 20-40 minutes of swim time with the dolphins.
Franz Josef
Helicopter Hike: 589 NZD per person
Take a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter ride high up on Franz Josef Glacier. Hop out and trek on the white and blue ice. Cool!
Ice Explorer Guided Hike (Heli Transfer): 670 NZD per person
The sheer size and power of Franz Josef is something you need to see to believe. Board a chopper for a leisurely flight over the glacier before landing directly on the ice. From there, get up close and personal on a three-hour guided hike past towering peaks and stunning blue ice. The constantly shifting ice flows and crevices ensure your visit will be one-of-a-kind!
Kayaking: 99-129 NZD per person
Explore the stunning Lake Mapourika by kayak. This lake was created as the Franz Josef glacier retreated 14,000 years ago, and the still water has created a natural mirror allowing you to soak in the incredible panoramic views.
Hiking: Free)
Take your pick of many scenic and memorable treks in Franz Josef – a true hiker’s haven. Get prepared before heading out, and be mindful of signs along the track. See majestic mountains, glaciers, rivers, and amazing views that you’ll definitely want your camera on hand for.
Queenstown
Gondola Ride: 35-56 NZD per person
Take a ride up to the top of the mountain by cable car gondola. Get a spectacular 220º view of Coronet Peak, the Remarkables mountain range, and Lake Wakatipu below.
Bungee Jumping: 165-205 NZD per person
Adrenaline junkies will be happy with a stop at the world's original commercial bungee site (bungy in New Zealand!). Opt to take the plunge or simply observe where it all started from the comfort of solid ground. Shoot some amazing photos of those brave enough to dive into the abyss.
Vineyard Tour: 185-230 NZD per person
Visit vineyards in New Zealand's fastest-growing wine region. Taste some of Queenstown's finest Pinot Noir, as well as Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc, and learn more about the grape varietals that flourish here. Pick up a few bottles to savor back home.
Ziptrek: 120-170 NZD per person
Earnslaw Steamship Cruise: 55-95 NZD per person
Discover the breathtaking Lake Wakatipu aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a traditional steamship that was first launched in 1912. This 90-minute cruise highlights the stunning alpine scenery that surrounds Queenstown and lets you check out the views while relaxing on deck.
Shotover Canyon Swing/Shotover Canyon Fox: 169-299 NZD per person
Scenic Horse Riding Tour: 165-325 NZD per person
Head out on a scenic horse ride and enjoy the spectacular scenery of Te Wahipounamu, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the southwest of New Zealand. Take in the breathtaking views on your journey of discovery through the magnificent Dart Valley - the backdrop for many famous film locations.
Queenstown Shotover Jet Boating: $102 USD per person
It's a jet boat ride along the Shotover River of Queenstown — need we say more? Okay, how about this, imagine a fast-paced whitewater ride with sharp turns and spins expertly navigated by a trained driver. So strap in and get ready to get wet.
Skydiving: 329 NZD per person
Enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of Queenstown from an eagle's perspective. Suit up, get briefed, and board the prop plane to soar high about the rugged alpine landscape. Strap onto your instructor, take a breath, and leap into a once-in-a-lifetime free fall. This is what a natural high truly feels like!