Stray RURU Auckland to Christchurch Adventure Tour

Kia Ora (hello) and welcome to your New Zealand adventure. Your tour begins in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland), the largest city in New Zealand and home to over 2 million people and around 50 volcanoes.

You can arrive at any time today and we encourage you to explore the city. Walk down to the viaduct for a spot of lunch, wander over to Britomart for a coffee or head to Commercial Bay if you’d like to do some shopping. You can check into your hotel from 3pm, and this evening you’ll meet your group and Guide at reception at 6pm for a welcome dinner (own cost) to get to know your new travel mates.

Accommodation: Oaks Auckland Hotel or similar. Optional activities: Have lunch at the viaduct, enjoy coffee in Britomart, go shopping at Commercial Bay

We’ll head out after breakfast this morning and travel south to Waitomo, famous for its limestone caves lit by thousands of glowworms. You have the option to glide down a cave stream in a boat as you gaze as the hundreds of glittering glowworms above you, or don a wet suit and harness and do some abseiling and rock climbing through the famous caves – whichever option you choose it will be a magical way to begin your adventure!

Continuing on we’ll head for Rotorua, the North Island’s geothermal hotspot and a great place to experience Maori culture. We’ll arrive in the early evening so we’ll head straight to our hotel, which is home to a spa, swimming pool and unlimited Wi-Fi (not the norm here in New Zealand)!

Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua or similar. Meal Options: Local eateries. Optional Activities: Waitomo Cave activities.

Today it’s all about the Roto (Māori for ‘Lake’). After breakfast we’ll travel past the vibrant Blue and Green Lakes on our way to Lake Tarawera where the mighty volcano Mt Tarawera looms on the horizon. From there we’ll take an aqua taxi to Te Rata Bay, home to Hot Water Beach where a hot thermal spring feeds into lake water. For those keen for a hike, take a quick soak before embarking on the 15km (4.5-5hrs) Tarawera Trail, where you’ll enjoy incredible views over Lakes Rotomahana and Tarawera. If you prefer to spend the morning in a more relaxing way, indulge in a long soak in the steamy waters, sit on the warm sands and spend your morning in geothermal heaven before heading back to Rotorua after lunch.

In the afternoon, we’ll collect you from the beach to take you back to the city where you’ll have the opportunity to go white water rafting down the Kaituna River, zipline through the trees on an eco-tour, zorb through rolling hills or 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.

Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua or similar. Meals included: Breakfast. Included activity: Water Taxi to Hot Water Beach – Te Rata Bay. Meal options: Local restaurants. Free activities: Tarawera Trail hike, Kuirau Park. Optional paid activities: Ziplining, White Water Rafting, Zorbing.

After a couple of days in a major tourist destination like Rotorua, it’s time to recharge our batteries and experience a more authentic slice of New Zealand culture. After lunch, we’ll travel to the shores of Lake Aniwhenua and the incredible Kohutapu Lodge. Owned by a local Maori family whose passion about their Maori tribal heritage is matched only by their commitment to the local community.

We’ll receive a welcome to the tribal lands before travelling on to Kohutapu Lodge where we’ll watch the preparation of a ground cooked ‘hangi’ before enjoying an afternoon tea of freshly made fried bread as we chat with the team at the lodge and practise our weaving and haka skills. In the evening, we’ll sit down and feast on our lovingly prepared hangi – this will probably be the best meal you’ll eat in New Zealand!

Exclusive experience includes:

• Welcome to the tribal lands and a guided tour to sacred Maori rock carvings
• Introduction to the Murupara area, its people, history, and challenges
• Afternoon tea
• Mau Rakau (Maori stick games)
• Weaving Lesson
• Haka Lesson
• 1-night accommodation at the lakeside Kohutapu Lodge
• Full traditional hangi buffet dinner & dessert
• Storytelling around the fire pit
• Continental breakfast

Accommodation: Scenic lakefront cabins. Meals included: Breakfast, full traditional hangi dinner and dessert. Free activities: Maori rock carvings, volleyball.

This morning after our buffet breakfast we’ll say goodbye to our wonderful hosts at the lakeside lodge before departing 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 the most sustainable high-country sheep and cattle station in New Zealand. Surrounded by the stunning Whanganui National Park, driving into the station is like entering the world of King Kong or Jurassic Park! The team at Blue Duck have made it their mission to protect their native environment for its namesake, the rare Whio (blue duck).

On arrival, we’ll settle in to learn a little about daily life at the station, their interesting settlement history and their sustainability efforts before eating a home-cooked meal and relaxing around the campfire.

Accommodation: Country station lodge. Optional paid activities: Skydiving or bungy in Taupo. Meals included: Continental breakfast, Dinner. Free activities: Huka Falls, Spa Park walk Taupo.

This morning 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. You’ll learn about the history of the station, see some amazing views, and enjoy a sweet ride with the crew!

Later you’ll have some time to explore the station on your own. Hike to the Kaiwhakauka waterfall and spot the rare blue duck in the flesh and this evening play some games at the lodge or relax around the campfire and make s’mores. Whatever you decide, we have no doubt this will be the start of your love affair with this lush kiwi paradise!

Accommodation: Country station lodge. Meals included: Continental breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Included activities: 4WD farm eco-tour. Free activities: Hike to Kaiwhakauka waterfall, evening glow worm viewing

This morning we rise early and make our way to Tongariro National Park to tackle what is widely regarded as the best one-day walk in the world – the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This unforgettable 19 km journey traverses an awe-inspiring landscape of volcanic peaks, vast craters, and striking turquoise alpine lakes – the kind of scenery you’ll remember long after you return home.

The Crossing can be walked year-round, and when there is snow or ice present, a qualified alpine guide and specialised equipment are required (additional cost may apply). These alpine conditions – typically from May to October, but possible at any time – can make the experience even more spectacular, showcasing Tongariro in its purest form. All plans remain weather dependent for comfort and safety, and if conditions aren’t suitable, there are other excellent walks in the national park to enjoy.

After an incredible day on the trails, return to your accommodation and soak in the outdoor spa while admiring the surrounding mountain views – the perfect way to unwind.

Accommodation: The Park Hotel (or similar). Meals included: Continental breakfast. Meal options: A range of local restaurants and cafés. For Crossing, pack a lunch & plenty of snacks and water. Included: Tongariro Alpine Crossing (snow & ice, extra cost). Optional paid upgrade: Alpine guide and specialist winter gear (required in snow/ice conditions).

After breakfast we’ll head down to Wellington – New Zealand’s capital city! We humbly recommend a visit to the Te Papa National Museum first, and then you’re free to grab a craft beer at a brewery, hike to the top of Mt Victoria for panoramic views, take a stroll along the waterfront or simply enjoy the best cup of coffee you’ll have in New Zealand (oh yes, they are very proud of their coffee scene in Wellington!).

Accommodation: Ibis Wellington or similar. Meals included: Breakfast. Meal options: Local restaurants. Free activities: Walk Oriental Parade, head up Mt Victoria for fantastic views. Optional paid activities: Te Papa National Museum

We’ll catch an early Bluebridge Ferry across the Cook Strait to the South Island today. If the weather’s good, head out to the viewing deck for incredible views of the Marlborough Sounds!

When we arrive in Picton, the top of the South Island, we’ll set off through the picturesque Marlborough region and up to Marahau, situated right on the edge of the spectacular Abel Tasman National Park.

We’ll spend our evening in this beautiful location relaxing around the campfire and looking at the stars.

Accommodation: The Barn or similar. Meals included: Breakfast. Meal options: We’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on supplies – Self-cater or join the optional group dinner. Free activities: Stargazing. Optional paid activities: Wine tasting.

Today we’re heading down New Zealand’s wild west coast! A super scenic drive, this area is known for its untamed beaches and masses of lush rainforest. Named one of the top drives in the world by Lonely Planet, this road offers views for days! We’ll stop at the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowholes to explore this unique part of coastline and then we’ll head into Hokitika, famous for its arts scene and greenstone (pounamu).

Our accommodation tonight is located on the shores of the Tasman Sea. Treat yourself to some dinner in their Ocean View restaurant or go for a walk and explore Hokitika. We highly recommend a visit to sunset point where you can explore the Tambo ‘shipwreck’, see amazing views of Hokitika beach with Aoraki Mt Cook in the distance and watch the sun setting over the horizon. Once it’s dark, go for a walk to the glowworm dell and see the glittering lights in the cave above you before heading back to your accommodation for a peaceful night of rest.

Accommodation: Hokitika Beachfront Hotel or similar. Meals included: Continental breakfast. Meal options: Local eateries. Free activities: Head down to Hokitika Beach for sunset.

It’s a short drive today towards the charming little village of Franz Josef. The landscape will change from coastline to dramatic, lush rainforest so just another day of incredible NZ scenery (have your phone charged for pics).

We’ll get to Franz Josef around lunchtime, giving you plenty of time to experience Franz Josef Glacier, an iconic highlight of the West Coast and New Zealand in general. Get a shuttle to the beginning of the track and then hike through native bush and across glacial streams to the terminal face of the glacier for spectacular photos or just relax in the township and enjoy the views. If you’d like to see the glacier up close (before that pesky climate change melts it for good) you can go for an incredible heli-hike and actually stand on the glacier!

Accommodation: Franz Josef Motels or similar. Meals included: Breakfast. Meal options: Local restaurants. Optional paid activities: Heli Hike to Franz Josef Glacier, Shuttle to Track. Free activities: Glacier Valley hike, bush tracks

Today is a free day in Queenstown. Yaaaasssss Queen(stown)! After breakfast, go and explore the beautiful mountain scenery with one of the many free hikes or join an activity of your choice! This evening, we recommend trying the famous Fergburger, checking out the nightlife, or enjoying a hot chocolate on the lakefront and listening to the live artists scattered across the shore.

Accommodation: Mercure Queenstown or similar. Meals included: Breakfast. Meal options: Local restaurants. Optional paid activities: Bungy, jet boating, skydiving, ziplining, horse riding, wine tasting, luging. Free activities: Hike Ben Lomond, the Queenstown Hill, or Bob’s Peak.

After all that adventure it’s time to depart Queenstown towards Te Anau, the gateway to the stunning Fiordland National Park. On arrival in Te Anau, we’ll make our way to the Fiordland cinema to watch Ata Whenua – Shadowland, where we’ll see incredible footage over the National Park, it’s wondrous landscapes and unique wildlife before we see it for ourselves on our cruise along the Milford Sound tomorrow.

In the afternoon we’ll take a water taxi to Brod Bay where we’ll be able to walk a part of the Kepler track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, across the Coal Creek Bridge and along the shores of Lake Te Anau back to our accommodation (summer only). We’ll spend the night at our hotel by the serene lakeside.

Accommodation: Te Anau Distinction Luxmore Hotel or similar. Meals included: Breakfast. Included activity: Entrance to Ata Whenua movie, Water Taxi to Brod Bay (Oct-Apr). Free activities: Kepler Track Great Walk. Meal options: Local restaurants.

This morning we’ll depart Te Anau and head towards the iconic Milford Sound where we’ll board a boat and cruise across the Sound (fun fact: it’s not actually a sound, it’s a fjord!) to see towering Mitre Peak plus rainforests, waterfalls, and loads of amazing wildlife like Fur Seals, Penguins and Dolphins.

In the evening you have the option to see the glowworm caves in Te Anau, go for a stroll through the town or around the lake, or relax at our lakeside accommodation.

Accommodation: Te Anau Distinction Luxmore Hotel or similar. Meals included: Breakfast. Meal options: Local restaurants. Included activity: Milford Sound Day Trip including Scenic Cruise. Optional paid activities: Glow worms.

We’ll depart Te Anau early to drive over the Lindis Pass and through the Mackenzie Country, past the vivid blue waters of Lake Pukaki on the way to our amazing stop at the base of New Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki/Mt Cook. We’ve made this drive sound great but honestly – we reckon it’s one of the most stunning days you’ll have in the whole of NZ.

We arrive in the early afternoon with time to do an optional experience like a boat tour on a glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped alps (sounds epic? It is.) Alternatively, we can check out the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre or do one of the many great short walks in the park. We would be remiss if we didn’t recommend the Hooker Valley track (weather dependent) which in our opinion is in the top 3-day walks in NZ. If it’s a clear night, head outside to experience one of the best stargazing spots in the country.

Accommodation: Mount Cook Alpine Lodge. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner. Optional paid activities: Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre (entrance included May-Sep), Glacier Explorer boat tour. Free activities: Take photos of awe-inspiring scenery, do one of the many great short walks to the Hooker glacial lake (weather dependent), stargazing.

Leaving Mount Cook we’ll make our way through a landscape made famous by the ‘Lord of the Rings’ films. We’ll stop to check out the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepherd (an iconic photo stop) and if you like you can go and relax in the Tekapo hot pools, do some snow tubing or ice skating (winter only) or hike up to the Mt John Observatory for incredible views of the lake from above. After lunch, we’ll continue to our final overnight stop in Christchurch where we can head out for our final group dinner together to celebrate an incredible journey around Aotearoa/New Zealand (own cost).

Accommodation: Scenic Cotswold or similar. Meals included: Breakfast. Free activities: Hike to Tekapo Mt John Summit, check out the historic Church of Good Shepherd, Canterbury Museum, Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Hagley Park.

This morning we highly recommend exploring Christchurch. Wander the city streets and laneways to discover creative street art intended to bring cheer and colour to a city once buried in rubble, check out the incredible modern shopping district, go for a beer at one of the quirky local pubs, spend an hour punting down the avon river, explore the stunning botanical gardens or hop on the historic tourist tram and see it all!

As today is our final day, our adventure is coming to an end and we can’t believe it’s over! 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!

Meals included: Breakfast

This 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.

• 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.

Standard Terms and Conditions

1. These points make up all of the terms of contract between Stray (‘Stray’ or ‘us/we’) and the customer (‘passenger/you’).
2. 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
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. Sickness & injury: While all care will be taken, Stray will not be held liable for any sickness or injury to any customer.
8. Visas: It is the passenger’s responsibility to carry a valid passport and appropriate visas while travelling on any Stray services.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. Stray accepts no responsibility for any independently operated activity a passenger chooses to undertake while travelling with Stray.
12. 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.
13. 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.
14. 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.
    
15. 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]
16. 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.
17. 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.
18. 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.
19. 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.
20. 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.
21. 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.
22. 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.
23. 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.
24. 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.
25. Dietary requirements and allergies: Any dietary requirements or allergies must be advised upon booking so they can be catered to where possible.
26. 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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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: 

1. Open-Dated Bookings will be credited with the amount paid at the time of booking.
2. Credit can be used for any Stray trip, in any region Stray operates in.
3. 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.
4. If the new trip costs more, you can pay the difference. If it costs less, leftover credit can be gifted to a friend.
5. Credit is subject to Stray’s Cancellation Policy at the time the original booking was made.
6. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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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