Description
Discover the best of New Zealand’s South Island on the Stray TAKAHE 11-day loop tour from Christchurch, combining stunning landscapes with comfortable travel. Designed for active adults who appreciate quality accommodations, this small-group adventure (max 24 guests) takes you to Abel Tasman’s golden beaches, Franz Josef’s glaciers, Queenstown’s adventure hub, and Aoraki/Mt Cook’s alpine majesty.
Your journey begins with a scenic bus ride to Picton before diving into coastal wonders. Spend a day exploring Abel Tasman National Park from beachfront cabins, then marvel at the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks on the wild West Coast. The adventure continues to Franz Josef Glacier (free time to hike or heli-tour) and Queenstown, where you’ll enjoy a Milford Sound day cruise through breathtaking fiords. The tour culminates with a stay at an alpine lodge near Mt Cook and a hike along the iconic Hooker Valley Track.
Stray TAKAHE Departures
- Depart Christchurch
Inclusions
- Public Bus from Christchurch to Picton
- Experienced tour guide
- Private coach transport
- 11 days of once in a lifetime experience
- 10 nights’ twin share accommodation
- 10 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners
- Time to explore Abel Tasman National Park
- Trip to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks
- Lake Matheson (mirror lake) visit
- Entrance to Ata Whenua movie (from Oct 2025 only)
- Water Taxi to Brod Bay (Oct-Apr) OR Entrance to Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre (May-Sep) (from Oct 2025 only)
- Milford Sound Day Cruise
- Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepherd visits
- Loads of walks, wildlife, waterfalls, lakes, beaches, lookouts and so much more…
Stray TAKAHE Highlights
- Stay in cute cabins a stone’s throw from the beach in Abel Tasman National Park and spend a day exploring the park’s natural golden sand beaches and blue waters.
- Stay in beachside in Hokitika
- See the stunning Ata Whenua movie at Fiordland Cinema (from Oct 2025 only)
- Take a water taxi and complete part of the Kepler Track – one of New Zealand’s great walks (from Oct 2025 only)
- Immerse yourself in NZ ‘Must Do’ – Milford Sound Day Trip including a scenic road trip and cruise in Fiordland National Park
- Enjoy a touch of luxury at the Mercure hotel Queenstown complete with swimming pool
- Stay at a stunning alpine lodge at the base of NZ’s highest mountain – Aoraki/Mt Cook
- Hike the breathtaking Hooker Valley Track
- Free time in Franz Joseph & Queenstown
- Plenty of stops at lakes, lookouts, mountains, hikes, beaches, national parks, rivers, waterfalls and more…
Your Travel Itinerary
Kia Ora (hello) and welcome to your New Zealand adventure. Our tour begins in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland), the largest city in New Zealand and home to over 2 million people and around 50 volcanoes.rnrnWe’ll head out bright and early this morning and travel down to Rotorua, the North Island’s geothermal hotspot and probably second only to Queenstown in terms of its adventure activity offerings. Fondly known as ‘Roto-vegas’ due the high volume of tourists it receives, Rotorua is a hive of activity and culture.rnrnWe’ll stop at the Whakarewarewa Forest for a walk through the giant California Redwoods which were planted over 100 years ago before checking in at our hotel, the Distinction Rotorua. Centrally located and home to a spa, swimming pool and unlimited Wi-Fi (not the norm here in New Zealand) it’s a great base to explore from.rnrnAccommodation: Distinction Rotorua or similarrnrnMeal Options: Local eateriesrnrnFree activities: Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest walk
Today we have a free day in Rotorua. Have breakfast at the hotel and then head off to an activity of your choice. Go white water rafting down the Kaituna River, zipline through the trees on an eco-tour, zorb through rolling hills or just relax at a geothermal spa. If you’d like to see some geothermal activity for free, head to Kuirau Park to see boiling mud pools and steaming lakes. This evening, you’ll be taken to Te Puia for a night of dramatic geysers, bubbling mud and beautiful native bush. You’ll begin with a guided geothermal walk under the stars by torchlight before eating a traditional kanga waru (GF) pudding cooked in a natural hot spring. Sit under the night skies and hear the stories of the past, feeling the beauty of Pohutu in an interactive journey guided by light.rnrnAccommodation: Distinction Rotorua or similarrnrnMeal options: Local restaurantsrnrnMeals included: BreakfastrnrnIncluded activity: Geyser by Night ExperiencernrnFree activities: Kuirau Park
After a couple of days in a major tourist destination like Rotorua, you’ll probably want some time to recharge the batteries and experience a more authentic slice of New Zealand culture. After breakfast, we’ll venture ‘off the beaten track’ to the shores of Lake Aniwhenua and the incredible Kohutapu Lodge. Owned by a local Maori family who are passionate about showcasing their Maori tribal heritage, the lodge is a pillar of the local community.rnrnWe’ll be taken to see sacred Maori rock carvings, play a traditional game of Mau Rakau and watch the preparation of a ground cooked ‘hangi’. We’ll enjoy an afternoon tea of freshly made fried bread as we speak with the team at Kohutapu Lodge and practise our weaving and haka skills. In the evening, we’ll sit down to enjoy our lovingly prepared hangi feast – this will probably be the best meal you’ll eat in New Zealand, or dare we say, your lifetime.rnrnExclusive experience includes:rnu003culu003ern tu003cliu003eWelcome to the tribal lands and a guided tour to waterfall and sacred Maori rock carvingsu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eIntroduction to the Murupara area, its people, history, and challengesu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eAfternoon teau003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eMau Rakau (Maori stick games)u003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eWeaving Lessonu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eHaka Lessonu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003e1-night accommodation at the lakeside Kohutapu Lodgeu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eFull traditional hangi buffet dinner u0026amp; dessertu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eStorytelling around the fire pitu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eContinental breakfastu003c/liu003ernu003c/ulu003ernAccommodation: Scenic lakefront cabinsrnrnMeals included: Breakfast, full traditional hangi dinner and dessert
We’ll tuck into our buffet breakfast and say goodbye to our wonderful hosts at the lakeside lodge before we depart this morning to Kerosene Creek – a naturally hot river and the perfect place for a morning soak. Afterwards we’ll drive on to Taupo to see Australasia’s largest lake and the frothy Huka Falls before heading inland to Blue Duck Station for an immersive and off the grid experience. Blue Duck Station is a 7,200-acre high country farm and is the most sustainable high-country sheep and cattle station in New Zealand, the team have made it their mission to protect their native environment for its namesake, the rare blue duck. On arrival, we’ll settle in to learn a little about daily life at Blue Duck, the station’s interesting settlement history and their sustainability efforts before cooking some dinner and relaxing around the bonfire.rnrnAccommodation: Country station lodgernrnOptional paid activities: Skydiving or bungy in TaupornrnMeals included: Continental breakfast, DinnerrnrnFree activities: Huka Falls, Spa Park walk Taupo
Good news – You have a full free day to explore this ruggedly charming destination. You’ll jump on a 4WD and travel through native bush to the ‘Top of the World’ where you can see the three peaks of Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe. Later, if you’d like to explore on foot, you can hike to the Kaiwhakauka waterfall and see if you can spot a rare blue duck in the flesh or simply relax around the campfire and make smores. Whatever you decide, we have no doubt this will be the start of your love affair with this lush kiwi paradise. Those holiday romances, aye!rnrnAccommodation: Country station lodgernrnMeals included: Continental breakfast, Lunch u0026amp; DinnerrnrnIncluded activities: 4WD farm eco-tourrnrnFree activities: Hike to Kaiwhakauka waterfall, night glow worm viewing
This morning we’re up nice and early to head straight to Tongariro National Park where we’ll have the opportunity tick off one of the most popular hikes in New Zealand, the epic Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Considered one of the world’s top one-day walks, this 19 km hike takes us across a rocky plateau with dramatic volcanic peaks, craters, and turquoise lakes that we (and our Instagram feed) will remember for a lifetime. The Crossing is open to walk year-round (alpine gear and guide are required in winter), but it is subject to the weather conditions. If the weather prevents us from doing the Crossing, there are other awesome short walks in the area. Tonight, we’ll unwind after a big day at our accommodation, the Powderhorn Chateau. Styled like a log cabin, this boutique accommodation is so cosy and even has an indoor heated pool where we can rest our weary bones after our big walk – after all, we’re on holiday aren’t we?rnrnAccommodation: Powderhorn Chateau or similarrnrnMeal options: Local restaurantsrnrnOptional paid activities: Tongariro Alpine CrossingrnrnMeals included: Continental breakfast
This morning after breakfast we’re going for a scenic bike ride along the Old Coach Road, a moderate but epic 4-hour unguided bike trail. We’ll cycle on a unique cobbled road, past historic Viaducts and limestone cliffs and there’ll be plenty of stops along the way to take photos. This is a great way to spend a morning learning about New Zealand history and seeing some pretty spectacular views as we go.rnrnAfterwards, we’re heading down to Wellington, the ‘coolest little capital in the world’! Wellington packs a lot of character into its downtown district, with interesting restaurants and bars along Cuba Street and Courtenay Place. We’ll have an afternoon to browse through the exhibits at Te Papa National Museum, grab a craft beer at a brewery, climb to the top of Mt Victoria for panoramic views or take a stroll along the waterfront and Oriental Parade. Oh and, most importantly for those who seek 24/7 caffeination, we are happy to say that Wellington’s coffee culture and cafe scene is considered one of (if not THE) best in New Zealand.rnrnAccommodation: Naumi Hotel Wellington or similarrnrnMeal options: Local restaurantsrnrnMeals included: BreakfastrnrnIncluded activity: Electric bike along the historic Old Coach RoadrnrnOptional paid activities: Visit Te Papa National Museum, Wellington Cable CarrnrnFree activities: Walk Oriental Parade, head up Mt Victoria for fantastic views
We’ll catch an early Bluebridge Ferry across the Cook Strait to the South Island today. If the weather’s good, we’ll be out on the viewing deck where we’ll get some incredible views of the Marlborough Sounds before arriving in Picton and setting off through the picturesque Marlborough region. We’ll continue through to Marahau, situated right on the edge of the spectacular Abel Tasman National Park where we’ll spend our evening relaxing around the campfire and looking at the stars.rnrnAccommodation: The Barn or similarrnrnOptional paid activities: Wine tastingrnrnMeal options: We’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on supplies – Self-cater or join the optional group dinnerrnrnMeals included: BreakfastrnrnFree activities: Stargazing
Today is a full free day to explore New Zealand’s most popular national park. From our accommodation we can hike straight into the park (no water taxi required) and then it’s a cool 12 kms to Anchorage. The walk is absolutely beautiful with the park’s natural golden sand beaches and brilliant blue waters visible throughout. The walk is approx. 4 hours each way but there’s enough photo stops en-route to spend an entire day exploring, checking out Cleopatra’s Pools (yes there’s a natural water slide there), enjoying a picnic on the beach, relaxing in the sunshine – the world is our oyster.rnrnAccommodation: The Barn or similarrnrnOptional paid activities: Kayaking, water taxi, canyoningrnrnMeal options: Pack a picnic lunch and lots of snacks for your hike, Self-cater in the kitchen or use the BBQsrnrnMeals included: Continental breakfastrnrnFree activities: Hike in the national park, relax on the golden sand beaches, see Cleopatra’s Pools
We’re buckling up for an awesome day driving down the incredibly scenic ‘wild’ West Coast, an area known for its untamed beaches and masses of lush rainforest. Through Buller Gorge and down a stretch of road named one of the top drives in the world by Lonely Planet, there’s not much cell phone reception but we’re not going to need it. This road offers views for days and we won’t want to stop looking out the window for a second.rnrnWe’ll stop at the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowholes to explore this unique part of coastline before continuing on to Greymouth where you’ll say farewell to your Guide and some of your mates and board the TranzAlpine scenic train down to Christchurch. When you arrive, make your way to Bealey Quarter and check-in, if you like you can go for a walk through the cool laneways and explore the creative street art intended to bring cheer and colour to a city once buried in rubble.rnrnAccommodation: Bealey Quarter or similarrnrnMeal options: Local eateriesrnrnMeals included: BreakfastrnrnIncluded activities: TranzAlpine Scenic Train experiencernrnFree activities: Canterbury Museum, Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Hagley Park
Today our adventure comes to an end, we’ll say goodbye (or see you soon) to our mates and go our separate ways for now. We hope everyone had a blast and remains Stray Mates for 4ever!rnrnMeals included: Breakfast
Important info before travel
- Warm clothing you can layer
- Waterproof jacket
- Sturdy walking shoes/boots
- Swimming apparel & towel
- Hat & sunscreen
- Refillable water bottle
- Toiletries
- Camera
- Optional items you might want to bring: Motion sickness tablets, Insect repellent
- Please note that this a list of recommended essentials, not a comprehensive packing list.
- Tour starts on a Thursday and ends 11 days later on a Sunday
- Single travellers will be placed in a twin room with another single traveller of the same gender.
- Luggage is limited to one piece per person with a maximum weight of 23kg plus a day pack
- A basic level of fitness is required for medium length walks
- Accommodation at Marahau (Abel Tasman) include twin cabins however facilities are shared.
- Christchurch InterCity Bus Departure Info: 7:30am, outside Bus Interchange on Lichfield Street, near Colombo Street.
- Please Note: Your first leg unguided public bus journey ends in Blenheim at approx. 12:40PM. You will meet your Stray Guide outside Blenheim i-SITE Information Centre (The Railway Station). In the event the pickup will significantly delay due to the ferry arrival, we will notify you by email in advance.
- Single travellers will be put in a twin room with another single traveller of the same gender. For single travellers wanting a private room, they will need to purchase the ‘Private/Sole Use’ product option
- Option to start from Wellington/Picton as well as Christchurch: Sail the Cook Strait and start your Stray South Island adventure from Wellington or Picton, then travel one way and finish in Christchurch.
- Our itinerary is a guide. Given the spontaneous nature of our trips and lack of control over New Zealand’s weather(!), what we do each day might occasionally vary.
Standard Terms and Conditions
- These points make up all of the terms of contract between Stray (‘Stray’ or ‘us/we’) and the customer (‘passenger/you’).
- Prices: Prices: All prices are inclusive of tax. Prices listed on Stray’s website may be rounded. The final amount charged may vary +/- $0.50 of the advertised price. New Zealand products are priced in NZD. Australian products are priced in AUD. Asia products are priced in USD
- Stray passes and tours are only valid for the person whose name they were originally issued for and are non-transferrable. Passengers can expect to be Photo ID checked.
- Behaviour: Stray is not a common carrier and therefore can refuse to carry a person whose behaviour is detrimental to the enjoyment of the group. By travelling with Stray you agree to accept the authority of the Guide and accept their decisions. Our staff are entitled to a safe working environment, and our passengers to a great experience. Any threats to safety, being physical or verbal, or inappropriate behaviour may result in removal from the trip. If a Guide requires a passenger to leave the trip no refunds will be given and the passenger in question will be responsible for their own travel costs from that point.
- Published information: Stray will endeavour to adhere to published/stated departure, arrival and general travel times however on occasion, external and unpredictable events may prevent us from meeting these times. In these scenarios Stray is not liable for any loss or damage arising out of, or consequentially upon, any abandonment of, or delay in, any departure. We make a concerted effort to ensure the accuracy of our brochure, Stray Mate and website content however on occasion details may vary. Liaise with your Guide or Stray’s reservations team for clarification. Where a new brochure has been published (as shown by the validity date) it supersedes all older brochures. Anything listed in the brochure as free is not considered included in the ticket price and is non-refundable and non-transferable, no matter what the circumstances.
- Disruptions: Stray will not be held liable for unforeseen disruptions to your trip that are beyond our control (weather, natural disasters, third party service changes, etc). We will always endeavour to assist you but encourage you to take out a comprehensive travel insurance policy that will cover you for unforeseen disruptions, cancelling and cutting short your trip, delayed departures, accident and medical.
- Sickness & injury: While all care will be taken, Stray will not be held liable for any sickness or injury to any customer.
- Visas: It is the passenger’s responsibility to carry a valid passport and appropriate visas while travelling on any Stray services.
- Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not included with Stray passes or tours. Adequate and valid travel insurance is compulsory to travel with Stray in all regions. Your travel insurance policy must cover you for accidents, injury, illness and death medical expenses, including any related to pre-existing medical conditions, emergency repatriation (including helicopter rescue and air ambulance where applicable) and personal liability. Stray also recommends that it covers tour cancellation or curtailment, loss of/damage to luggage, personal effects and natural disasters. When travelling with us in Asia, you must provide Stray with your travel insurance details prior to departure and carry your policy information with you while travelling and produce it on request. Your trip may be cancelled or you may be removed from a tour if you cannot provide proof of travel insurance at any time. We do not take responsibility for any personal possessions lost under any circumstances.
- Where third party operator services are included in Stray’s passes/tours, Stray will make every endeavour to ensure the operator meets their obligations in the delivery of the service. If the Operator fails to deliver on their obligations Stray will seek a fair and reasonable resolution, which may result in a partial or full refund. If the expected level of service or inclusions have been misrepresented by the ‘booking agent’, the passenger will need to address their concerns directly with their agent. Stray takes no responsibility for any act of neglect by any company whose services are used as part of your trip including but not limited to, activity and accommodation providers.
- Stray accepts no responsibility for any independently operated activity a passenger chooses to undertake while travelling with Stray.
- Illegal activity: If passengers are caught with non-prescription, illegal drugs or partaking in illegal activities while travelling with Stray, any resulting consequences (incarceration, capital punishment and even death) will result in the passengers Stray pass/tour being nullified (voided) without refund. Stray will refuse carriage and will take no responsibility for passengers partaking in illegal activities.
- Images and video: On occasion, Stray conducts photo and video projects for the purposes of promoting its products and services. Passengers on these trips will be given the option to opt out of any such activities. Passengers are to advise their Guide should they wish to be excluded. If you do not opt out you are consenting to Stray using the images taken whilst on your Stray trip for advertising and promotional purposes worldwide, royalty-free in any medium.
- Deposit payments: A $200 deposit is required upon booking. Full payment is required within 6 months of the booking or a minimum of 31 days prior to departure (whichever comes first). If the full payment is not received in the designated time frame, Stray reserves the right to cancel the booking. Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. When you pay by deposit, you have committed to paying the price advertised at the time of booking, regardless of any price changes or alternative promotions that become available. If you want to cancel your Stray pass after paying the deposit, please check the details of Stray’s Cancellation Policy.
- Promotions with free inclusions or value-adds: A value added product (which could be a pass, journey, accommodation, activity or good) is a product which is included free of charge with the purchase of another Stray product. Value-added products cannot be sold, transferred to another traveller’s name, exchanged for a refund or an alternative product. If a traveller is unable to redeem the value-add product within 18 months of the original purchase it is forfeited. Once travel has commenced, Stray’s Cancellation Policy applies and neither of the bundled products is subject to a refund. If a promotion has bespoke terms or conditions for a free or value-added offer (e.g. travel date restrictions) these will supersede our standard conditions. [term amended from 12 months to 18 months on 11 March 2020]
- Competitions and Prizes: Stray products included as part of a competition or prize pack cannot be exchanged for cash, sold or transferred. Products must be redeemed within 12 months of the announcement or within a specific time frame if stated in the competition/prize terms, or the prize will be forfeited. These generic terms apply unless a variation is specified in the competition’s terms.
- Privacy: When purchasing a Stray product you will only be contacted by Stray with information directly relating to the supply of the product or service you have purchased. These types of communications include booking confirmations, pre departure information and service updates before, during or after travel. Unless you have opted-in to receive other types of communications from Stray (ie. general news, offers etc) you will not be contacted by Stray. You can opt out of Stray communication by emailing us at unsubscribe@straytravel.co.nz or by using the unsubscribe link in the footer of our emails. Please note, if you do so, we will not be able to communicate with you about any service or trip updates and it becomes your responsibility to communicate with Stray. View Stray’s Privacy Policy.
- Disputes: Should you wish to raise any issues regarding your trip, it is your responsibility to notify Stray as soon as possible so that we have every reasonable opportunity to resolve the issue.
If you are currently travelling: Advise your Stray Guide of your concern immediately so that steps can be taken to address the matter. If you would prefer to contact Stray directly, email feedback@straytravel.com.
If you have finished travelling: You must email feedback@straytravel.com within 28 days of the dispute in question.
We will not consider claims that are submitted 28 days after the dispute in question. Please provide a valid email address so we can provide a written response. - Law: These terms and conditions apply to the extent that they are NOT inconsistent with, or in contravention of, any obligation imposed on Stray by local law in the country of travel.
- Children: New Zealand Tours: Children aged 12-17 may travel, only if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian (The Select Tours only). Children are entitled to 15% off the full retail price of Stray Journeys Select Tour based on their age at the time of commencing travel (not booking). Australia Tours: Children aged 12-17 may travel if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian (The Select Tours only). Asia Tours: Children aged 12-17 may travel if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Travellers aged 16 or 17 years old can only travel alone with a signed consent form from a parent or guardian (contact Stray reservations for the form – reservations@straytravel.com). Please note: some of Stray’s accommodations in Asia are 18+ only, which means that any travellers younger than 17 may need to find alternative accommodation or stay in a private room.
- Luggage: Luggage must be limited to one backpack, bag or case per person with a maximum weight of 15kgs as our buses have limited storage space. You may also travel with a daypack for cameras, valuables, raincoats and items you will need to access throughout the day. Stray does not take any responsibility for any damage to, or loss of, any property or personal effects under any circumstances while passengers are utilising any of the services which Stray provides or markets.
- Fuel: We have fuel efficient buses to minimise our consumption but we reserve the right to put in place a fuel surcharge (at any time post ticket purchase) if fuel prices increase significantly during the pricing validity. Any surcharge will be payable to your Guide on your first day of travel. It will be a maximum of $30 local currency (NZD/AUD/USD) and will be clearly outlined online if initiated.
- Water safety: During your Stray trip there are options to be involved in swimming or water based activities independent of Stray and its partners. It is the passenger’s sole responsibility to determine if he or she is qualified and capable of participating in any water activity, and he or she chooses to participate at their own discretion.
- Fitness: Our tours are active so a reasonable amount of fitness is required. We undertake walks throughout the day to break up travel days. If you have any concerns regarding your suitability for any of our tours, please discuss this with our reservations staff before booking.
- Dietary requirements and allergies: Any dietary requirements or allergies must be advised upon booking so they can be catered to where possible.
- Cancellations: If you cancel your pass or tour a cancellation fee will apply. See Stray’s Cancellation Policy.
Stray Journeys & Inclusive Tours
Stray’s standard terms and conditions outlined above apply. The below terms are in addition to our standard terms and unique to Journeys and Inclusive Tours.
- Itinerary changes: Stray may vary itineraries, activities and transport modes at its discretion – due to the nature of our product and the environment within which we operate. However if Stray cancels a trip departure or part-thereof, the customer will be offered an alternative option or alternative travel date. If the alternative does not suit the passenger a refund will be made available (or pro-rata if only a portion of a trip is cancelled). If a trip is cancelled due to an external event outside of Stray’s control (extreme weather, natural disaster, political unrest etc.) an alternative date will be offered otherwise standard cancellation fees apply. Travel insurance is compulsory to travel with Stray and customers should ensure their policy covers them for protection against unpredictable events.
- Included: Transport, Guide, accommodation, activities and meals as specified in the itinerary. Meals are stipulated on your selected itinerary: (B) = Breakfast, (L) = Lunch and (D) = Dinner.
- Accommodation: Accommodation is included at each overnight stop – in NZ most trips do not include the last night’s accommodation in our final destination. In Australia they do, except for the Cassowary Tour. Linen is provided free of charge at all overnight stops. Upgrades to a private room are limited but may be available upon request. En-suite rooms are not guaranteed with upgrades. If booking an accommodation upgrade, please note that there are some exclusions: Hahei, Doubtful Sound, Blue Duck Station in NZ, Whitsunday sailing in Australia and our homestays in Asia.
- Reconfirm your departure: Please reconfirm your departure date and pick-up location by contacting our Reservations Team on +64 (0) 9 526 2149 or reservations@straytravel.com 7 days prior to your departure. This will allow us to confirm your pick-up time and let you know of any important information relating to your trip.
- Accommodation with Children: Any person or group travelling with a child or children (aged 7-17) is required to upgrade their Stray Journeys Tour accommodation to a private room. Private rooms will be provided for all locations except Hahei and Doubtful Sound which will be shared. This is for the safety and comfort of both parties.
- Changing a start date: Changes are permitted up to 31 days prior to the original date of departure, providing your tour is paid for in full. The new requested departure date is subject to availability and must be within 18 months of your original booking. If the rate of the new departure costs more than the original, you will be required to pay the difference. If the rate of the new departure cost less, any due rebate would be calculated as the difference less the applicable cancellation fee on the original booking. Upgrades to twin/single rooms are subject to availability and not guaranteed. If an upgrade is not available on the new departure date this portion may be refunded at Stray’s discretion.
- Changing to an alternative product: If you wish to change to an alternative Stray Journey, you may do so provided the original booking and has been paid for in full. If you are upgrading to a higher value pass, you will be required to pay the difference. If you are downgrading to a lower value product, any due rebate would be calculated as the difference less the applicable cancellation fee on the original booking.
- Minimum numbers: Departures require a minimum number of passengers to operate. In circumstances where minimum numbers are not reached an alternative departure date will be offered or a full refund. Passengers will be notified by email at least 31 days in advance of such changes.
- Cancellations: If you cancel your Journey a cancellation fee will apply. Stray’s Cancellation Policy
STRAY’S SPECIAL AMENDMENT & CREDIT POLICY
Our Special Amendment and Credit Policy was developed on 16 March 2020, during the global COVID-19 pandemic to allow you to confidently defer your trip until you are able travel again.
Applies to: All customers with a Stray pass or tour purchased between 16 March 2019 and October 31 2020 and includes customers who have not yet selected a travel date.
Validity: Use credit to start travel any time before 31 December 2025.
Travellers who have not yet started travelling can:
- Change their start date free of charge as many times as they like
- Book another start date to travel anytime before 31 December 2025
- Can swap their booking for a credit of the price paid, to travel on any product that Stray offers in any region before 31 December 2025.
Travellers that had their trip cut short after starting due to travel restrictions imposed due to coronavirus in 2020:
- Travellers who travelled less than 25% of their trip are eligible for 100% credit.
- Travellers who travelled more than 25% of their trip are eligible for a travel credit with Stray pro-rata for the unused portion of the trip. This credit can be used to travel on any product that Stray offers in any region.
- Credit must be used to start a new trip before 31 December 2025.
Credit Terms and Conditions:
- Open-Dated Bookings will be credited with the amount paid at the time of booking.
- Credit can be used for any Stray trip, in any region Stray operates in.
- If the customer wants to travel in a different region, the credit will be converted to the relevant currency (NZD for New Zealand trips, AUD for Australian trips, USD for Asia trips) at the rate that was correct on the original date of purchase.
- If the new trip costs more, you can pay the difference. If it costs less, leftover credit can be gifted to a friend.
- Credit is subject to Stray’s Cancellation Policy at the time the original booking was made.
- Customers who booked via an agent can apply directly to Stray for credit. Stray will validate this with the original booking agent. Once credit is validated, the customer can rebook a trip with Stray directly.
‘Amendments’ to change dates, and a ‘Credit’ option, offer customers flexibility and an alternative option to cancellation. For cancellations, Stray’s Cancellation Policy applies.
STRAY’S CANCELLATION POLICY
Standard Cancellation Policy applies for: Stray Journeys Adventure Tours and Select Tours, Stray Freestyle Passes, Arrival Packs and Day Trips.
If you have paid the $200 deposit to secure your seat and departure date, or made full payment and you need to cancel your booking, we have a couple of options available.
- a)If you cancel your tour booking31 days or more before your confirmed departure date:
- If you’ve booked direct with Stray and made full payment, the cancellation is free of charge and you will be refunded in full (less any applicable credit card fees).
- If you’ve booked direct with Stray and paid the $200 deposit, you will be refunded in full minus the non-refundable $200 deposit.
- If you’ve booked with an agent, you will need to go back to your agent to find out their cancellation terms.
- b)If you cancel your tour booking30 days or less before your confirmed departure date:
- If cancelled or you do not show up, 100% of the tour price (full payment) is non-refundable or transferable.
Cancellations should be made with your original booking agent who may charge an additional fee and/or have their own refund/credit policies. If you booked online please contact reservations@straytravel.com.
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