There are other websites that offer cheaper travel planning. Why is this so?
This is because our product is different from what is being offered commercially. Most importantly, this is customized to suit your needs, provide you with insider tips and recommending you what you are interested in.
In addition, all prices quoted are nett. There will not be hidden surcharge or taxes. As payment will be in Singapore dollars, there may be a small charge for exchange rate if you are using other currency.
Do you do any other bookings and reservations other than accommodation?
We can help you with some specific bookings on the day of arrival or the following day. This is dependent on the type of booking and reservations. We will advice accordingly.
Will you be able to make all the bookings and reservations for me?
The reason why we do not make all the bookings and reservations, simply because you will lose part of the fun. You will find that bookings of activities and lodging reservations are extremely easy. In addition, there are quite a number of outdoor activities that are weather-dependent and refund policy differs from every company. Last but not least, this is to cater to any last minute change of plans.
We strongly recommend booking of your accommodation for your first (and second night) on arrival. Free airport shuttle to accommodation is dependent on the motel/hotel itself. There are also airport shuttle at a small fee that will take you right to your accommodation. If you are arriving after 5pm, you can also call for a taxi.
If I want a self-drive holiday, what are the additional expenses I am looking at?
The charges will be daily rental rate, insurance (optional but recommended), fuel, parking, toll charges, etc.
I would like to learn more about residing/working in New Zealand, and not for a holiday. What do you recommend?
As you will be staying in New Zealand for a longer time period, we recommend the 3-hour consultation. From here, you will gain better understanding on the local lifestyle and culture, and what to expect. However, if you would like a travel itinerary, you are welcome to take up the itinerary package together.
How would differences in the weather during the different seasons affect the itineraries?
Activities that are season-dependent will be highlighted. For example, ski fields are only opened during mid-winter to early spring, and closed for the rest of the year. Fiordland is not opened during winter months for safety reasons. However, for most of the places, it should still be similar.
What is a 'Kiwi'?
The kiwi, New Zealand's national emblem, is a flightless bird with hair-like feathers and a long, slender bill which it uses to pull worms and insects out of the ground. Found only in New Zealand, it is active at night in the wilderness areas of the country. Be sure to visit one of the many kiwi houses where you can watch them under special 'nocturnal' lighting.
New Zealanders often refer to themselves as Kiwis, and the term is also used as a short form for the famous kiwifruit. On the stock exchange, the New Zealand Dollar is also referred to as 'the kiwi'.
What services do you provide?
Please refer to How It Works for more information.
The aim of FunNewZealandTravel.com is to provide you with NZ information to help you to save time on doing excessive research and provide recommendations to suit your needs.
Is there anything that I would need to take note of when packing?
New Zealand’s customs is definitely one of the stricter ones in the world. Basically, no foodstuff, animals, weapons and dirty clothes and soiled shoes, and you will get through after the bag search.
Is my schedule free and easy or do I have to follow the itinerary closely?
The suggested itinerary is meant to be a guide to places you can visit within a comfortable time frame. You are free to change it on the go to suit your choices at any part of it.
Are there a minimum number of travellers needed to embark on a holiday?
There is no minimum or maximum travel group size as FunNewZealandTravel.com is catered for independent travel. However, there are recommendations there are more suited for different groups – solo, couples, singles, honeymooners, families, etc. We will advise accordingly to suit your needs.
This is the first time I am traveling outside of a packaged group tour, is it safe?
Compared to many countries around the world, New Zealand’s law and order is definitely way up there. Firstly, your travel plan will contain information and tips about New Zealand to help you to avoid known health and safety risks, and get acquainted with local customs and rules. Secondly, the directions and information will help you in locating your destinations, giving you a better idea of what to expect.
As with any trip, traveling has its risks and dangers beyond our control. We will do our best to ensure that in the selection of accommodation and transportation, we only deal with reputable and reliable partners.
Personal experience: I went to NZ when I was 23, without knowing anyone or anything about the country. There are many times I traveled alone, went on solo road trips, stayed in a foreign town, flat with strangers, bunk in common backpackers, etc. Throughout my 3-year stay, I am thankful that I did not witness anything particularly dangerous, except the extreme sports.
How is FunNewZealandTravel.com different from other travel agencies/advisors/consultants/planners?
FunNewZealandTravel.com promotes independent and customized travel to New Zealand. Your holiday will include a recommended travel plan, including tips and fast facts about New Zealand that you probably don’t know. This travel plan will include step-by-step instructions (and directions) for your preferred activities, as well as the relevant contact details. In addition, we will book your first night accommodation in/near downtown for your convenience (prices dependent on your accommodation choice).
When is the best time to visit New Zealand?
New Zealand is an extremely popular summer destination, both for overseas and domestic visitors. We strongly recommend you to book at least your first two nights accommodation during the months of January, February and March to avoid disappointment. It is a good idea to make contact with the local i-SITE visitor centres in the region you are travelling to, and discuss with them whether late bookings will be available.
Summer and winter temperatures vary by only about 10ºC over most of the country, making New Zealand an ideal holiday destination all year round. New Zealand has four quite distinct seasons - Spring (Sept-Nov), Summer (Dec-Feb), Autumn/Fall (Mar-May) and Winter (June-Aug). In summer there's plenty of sunshine, and activities in and around the water include rafting, snorkelling, diving and kayaking. You'll find snow on the mountains in winter and excellent skiing. Away from the mountains, New Zealand winters are mild and temperatures generally do not fall below freezing.
What are the emergency numbers?
Emergency New Zealand’s local contacts are provided. Dial 111 via any phone in New Zealand will take you to the common line for Ambulance, Fire Department and Police.
How would differences in the weather during the different seasons affect the itineraries?
Activities that are season-dependent will be highlighted. For example, ski fields are only opened during mid-winter to early spring, and closed for the rest of the year. Fiordland is not opened during winter months for safety reasons. However, for most of the places, it should still be similar.
What kind of currency should I bring along?
Be sure to change for New Zealand dollars at the airport. Lower denominations – twenty-dollar notes and below – are recommended. Hundred-dollar bills are not very common and some smaller shops might not accept. Also, there are no moneychangers in smaller towns.
How much cash should I be bringing for my personal expenses and spending?
It depends on individual spending and dining habits. Do set aside for unexpected expenses, e.g. taxi fares. Budget recommendation will be provided in travel plan for your reference.
Is it safe to go on a self-drive holiday, especially if it is the first time we visit the country?
Self-drive trips are based on individual confidence and comfort level. As with any road trips, it has inherent risks and dangers beyond our control.
Where do I catch my flight/train/bus/cruise?
There are only 3 international airports – Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch – in New Zealand. Within the country, there are many smaller domestic airports. Conveniently, there are airport shuttle buses/vans that will take you to and fro from your accommodation with a small charge. Even if you missed it, fret not; you can call a local taxi company for a pick-up. Some accommodation also provide free-of-charge airport pick up.
There are only 3 train routes in New Zealand:
1) Overlander from Auckland to Wellington (north to south on North Island)
2) TranzCoastal from Christchurch to Picton (north of South Island)
3) TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Greymouth (east to west of South Island)
The North and South islands are separate by a cruise ride – Coastal Connection.
The cities and towns are just a bus ride away. Coach buses are there to connect the cities and towns. Prices are affordable and you get to enjoy a scenic ride with strategic stop points for meal breaks.
In bigger cities, there are localized bus services to take you around the cities. The directions are simple and you can always check with the bus driver when in doubt – they are ultra friendly. Almost all bus drivers greet you when you get on the bus.
Can you provide me with a cost breakdown?
We do not provide a cost breakdown, as the prices quoted are nett and final. We aim to provide you the value and information that save you hours of unnecessary research and real recommendations.
If I am intending to travel to New Zealand for more than 16 days, what are the charges like?
In this case, we would recommend the 3-hour consultation. The consultation is focused on answering specific questions and area of interest. As the time spent there is relatively long, there will be sufficient time to cover quite a series of activities.
Is there a different pricing if I am traveling to just one island and both islands in the same trip?
There will be no price different for the consultation as it is focused on answering your specific queries and requests.
However, the itinerary is based on a trip that is no more than 16 days 15 nights. For example, if you want to cover both north and south island within 16 days, the price will be the same as a 10-day north island tour. However, if you intend to travel to the north island this year, and south island the following year, then you would need to purchase 2 separate packages.
Does the number of travelers affect the package prices?
The price will be the same regardless for 1 person or 5 persons. This pricing is based on one itinerary.
