- What is the maximum size of a group tour?
Small group tours means between 16 to 25 people.
- What does a single supplement mean?
Single supplement guests do not mean we continue to add an additional person(s), rather the space is officially reserved as two people. Solo travellers can expect to share a room with a member of the same sex.
- Why is group size important?
Tour size is important as we want your experience to feel intimate, personal and unique.
- How does PacificJane choose tour guides?
Your programme leader is a professional with a thorough understanding of the major theme of the tour, for instance our senior editor has a history / anthropology academic background. Our senior editor loves nothing more than getting on the road with our guests talking about the places she has studied and loves.
PacificJane’s tour leaders are the best of their profession in New Zealand and Australia. All of them are professional and very familiar with the Aussie and Kiwi cultures and history.
- First aid and medical assistance is this part of the tour support package?
PacificJane ensures either the driver or guide(s) are qualified in first aid. We request that any known medical conditions are flagged during the booking process to ensure guests enjoy all aspects of the upcoming tour.
- Is a guide with clients every step of the way?
Definitely, guides with deep local knowledge show you around their home, sharing their knowledge of the sights and sounds encountered.
- You want to stop the bus to take a photograph?
This is always a tricky question as we have preferred premium allocations booked for museums, galleries and other activities. We will do our best to ensure you get the photograph you want.
- Can I get my deposit returned if I cancel my booking?
Your deposit forms part of our company guarantee to our tourism partnerships we will turn up. In turn PacificJane guests are guaranteed accommodation and entrance to key attractions.
- When do I have to pay the balance of my booked holiday?
The balance is paid 60 days before scheduled departure. We strongly advise travel insurance is part of your holiday budget.
- Do I need to take insurance? What does it cover?
Yes, if you have to opt out of the holiday due to ill-health or family emergency or suitcases are misplaced then insurance will ensure you are either partially or fully compensated. Download T&Cs here: (insurance details .pdf)
- Will airfare be included in my tour?
Unfortunately not, but contact us if you need assistance with flight bookings. Note that flights should be booked at least a day either side of the tour to ensure you’re where you’re meant to be.
- Can I change/cancel my booking?
Changes or cancellation after your final payment due date are subject to fees, which vary by package. Please note: the deposit is non-refundable but transferable, please contact us for travel credit or more details.
- What are the cancellation fees?
Period of notice Cancellation Fee
Outside 60 days Loss of deposit
30 - 59 days 50% of tour cost
15 - 29 days 75% of tour cost
Within 14 days 100% of tour cost
- When will I receive my travel wallet / documents?
It will be delivered or emailed to you via post three weeks prior to departure.
- What is the smoking policy in New Zealand?
Smoking is prohibited by law in all cafes, bars, restaurants and other public buildings, inside hotels and other accommodations.
Please find more information here
- Are face masks required on tour? Will you be providing masks and hand sanitizer?
You can find more information about Covid-19 situation and “Use of masks and face coverings in the community” here
Please bring your own face mask and hand sanitizer. We will have extras on hand, but supplies may be limited.
- What are the accommodations like?
All the hotels are carefully selected by our Directors to ensure they meet their exacting standards. Over the decades they’ve worked in the travel industry, they’ve come to understand precisely which hotel elements work best for your holiday. Location and consistent high standards are paramount. So, throughout your touring holiday in New Zealand, rest assured that we aim to provide top accommodation. And it does not cost the earth.
- Is the optional program guaranteed to happen?
For optional programs you must apply and pay 45 days prior to departure. It is often no longer possible to apply after we start the tour but please contact us for more details.
- What sort of people go on your tours?
Because of the way we organize our tours, and the way we travel, we tend to attract friendlier, more flexible and fun-loving people for our tours, giving our tours a congenial atmosphere.
- Do you have age restrictions for your tours?
Travelers must be at least 18 years-of-age to travel unaccompanied by an adult. We recommend that children be at least 12 years of age. Our tours are heavy on “adult things” (art, history, architecture, etc.) that kids often find boring. Our tours allow flexibility, so squeezing in activities for younger children is possible but can still be overwhelming.
- How physically difficult are the tours?
Walking tours are an important part of the itinerary and a good standard of health is required with the ability to walk on uneven surfaces and negotiate stairs.
(we provide personalized itineraries and private tours throughout New Zealand and Australia where one or more person has a physical or learning disability, is a slow walker or simply may need that bit of extra support along the way)
- How much luggage am I allowed to bring?
Passengers are allowed one max 20kg suitcase/backpack and one day bag, as there are strict weight restrictions on our buses.
- What is your no show policy?
Due to extremely strict time slots for entry into attractions, we recommend you show up 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Our groups depart precisely at the scheduled tour start time. If you show up late or cannot find the meeting point, for any reason, refund requests are not honored per policy. For most tours, it is not logistically possible to join the group after it has started but please contact us if you have any questions.
- What sort of weather can I expect on my tour?
Please visit Metservice.com for a long term weather forecast.
- Do I need to tell you about any medical or special conditions?
Yes we like to know about anything that needs consideration on your tour, such as ability to walk up stairs, etc. Once you have booked, you will receive a form requesting details of any medical conditions that may be relevant to your tour experience. This allows us to make any necessary arrangements.