Asia and Pacific

New Zealand | Discover the Changing Landscape of Aotearoa

with Sally O'Byrne of Delaware Nature Society
Date:
Oct 22 - Nov 11, 2026
Duration:
21 Days
Price:
From $11,495
Interests:
Natural History
Join This Trip Print Itinerary
Christchurch Botanical Gardens
Kea, endemic to the South Island of New Zealand
Punakaiki (pancake rocks)
Renwick vineyard
Lake Wānaka
Gannets at Muriwai Beach
Kapiti Island trail
Weka
Bar-tailed Godwits at Pukorokoro Miranda Shorebird Center
Join This Trip
Join This Trip

About this trip

Aotearoa (New Zealand) is an island which is quite distant from any other landmass, so it has quite a low natural diversity with no native mammals other than bats. Its geology is very complex and volcanism plays a major role in the character of the land. Land clearing and changes to the landscape have happened since the Māori’s arrival circa 1300. Europeans expanded land clearance and introduced many animals and plants. Sheep and cattle grazing, dairy, and forestry have all impacted the landscape. Between the clearing and exotic introductions, large scale extinction of native fauna and flora took place. In recent years, there has been great recognition of this loss. Efforts to restore native bush, remove exotic mammals, and reestablish native birds have happened throughout New Zealand. Discover New Zealand’s changing landscapes on this 21-day immersive eco-tour led by Sally O’Byrne and a New Zealand guide. From dramatic coastlines and volcanic mountains to native forests and bird sanctuaries, experience the country’s unique wildlife, Māori heritage, and conservation efforts to restore native species. Highlights include visiting penguin and albatross colonies, exploring historic towns, hiking scenic trails, stargazing in a Dark Sky Reserve, and meeting local guides who share the stories behind Aotearoa’s natural and cultural treasures.

Highlights

  • Seek out some of New Zealand’s unique birds like the Yellow-eyed and Little Penguin, Royal Albatross, Australasian Gannet, Westland Petrel, Bar-tailed Godwit, and Wrybill — not to mention a few endemics in the parrot family like the Kea and Kaka.
  • Learn about the country’s rich Māori culture, as well as colonial history, at New Zealand’s Te Papa Museum, Ōtautahi Christchurch, historic mining towns, and the geothermal wonderland in and around Rotorua.
  • Explore Pūkorokoro Miranda Shorebird Centre, the National Kiwi Hatchery, and Kāpiti Island Nature Reserve to learn about the important conservation efforts underway to preserve the flora and fauna of New Zealand.
  • Embark on two of the world’s most beautiful and scenic journeys: the iconic ferry ride from Picton to Wellington that cruises across the Cook Strait and the breathtaking TranzAlpine train ride that crosses the South Island from coast-to-coast.
  • Sample local wines, produce, and olive oil in the vineyards of New Zealand’s famed Marlborough region.

Meet your leader

Sally O’Byrne

Sally has almost 40 years of experience as a teacher naturalist for Delaware Nature Society (DNS), teaching all ages, though recently limiting herself to adults.  She has previously led trips to Iceland and Scotland for DNS.  With a degree from Beloit College in geography and a Masters from Penn in Regional Planning, her knowledge is broad, covering both natural history and history.  Living in a city for most of her adult life, she has an interest in urban wildlife as well as natural areas, and is interested in how past land use affects what we experience today.  Sally is twice past president of Delaware Ornithological Society and currently on the board of Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. Sally is married to New Zealander, and has visited the country many times, exploring the country for nearly 50 years. With family and friends scattered throughout the US and around the world, travel is very much part of her current life.

Land Cost

$11,495

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $2300

What makes us different

Rich content

All of our programs include experiences that are enriching and engaging to facilitate a genuine connection between our travelers and their destinations

Carbon offsetting

As part of our commitment to sustainable travel, we partner with ClimateSafe to offset the carbon emissions from each journey

Wildlife up-close

Enjoy up-close observation of the behaviors and interactions of wildlife in their native habitats

Service anytime

Enjoy worry-free travel — our emergency line is monitored 24/7/365 so we can assist you if any problems arise while you’re traveling with us

Support local communities

We work with local guides and organizations so your trip includes authentic cultural experiences while supporting the economy of the region

Flight arrangements

We’re a full service travel provider and are happy to assist with making your flight arrangements if desired

AND MORE!

See all the reasons why you should travel with Holbrook

What makes us different

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Depart US
Begin your journey from your home departure city - destination: Dunedin, New Zealand!
En Route
In Flight
Cross the International Date Line today.
En Route
Dunedin
This morning, arrive in Auckland, where you will go through customs. Continue onto your final flight into Dunedin, where you will you be met in the domestic arrivals hall and taken to your hotel. Early check-in will be available so that you can rest, but there will also be an optional walking tour of the downtown area to learn about Scottish settlement in New Zealand. Dunedin is the second largest city in the South Island and a historically rich town where gothic architecture meets sweeping coastal landscapes. Its name comes from Dun Eideann, the Scottish Gaelic name for Scotland's capital Edinburgh; in Maori, Dunedin is called Otepoti. Gather this evening to meet the guide who will accompany you throughout the journey and provide valuable information and logistical assistance along the way. Have dinner at your centrally located hotel to celebrate your first evening in New Zealand.
Dinner included
Scenic Hotel Southern Cross
Dunedin
Spend your first full day in New Zealand exploring the Otago Peninsula, which takes its name from the Ngai Tahu village of Otakou at the mouth of the Otago Harbour and is part of the crater wall of a large, long-extinct volcano. Hike through dunes to look for endemic Yellow-eyed Penguins and Little Penguins, and then visit a Royal Albatross colony. Seals, New Zealand sea lions, and an occasional sea elephant can also be spotted here. Enjoy a box lunch here and return to Dunedin later to relax.
Breakfast-Lunch- included
Scenic Hotel Southern Cross
Queenstown
Today begins with the journey to Queenstown, a premier destination in the Southern Alps and one of the most beloved holiday destinations in the South Island thanks to its breathtaking landscapes. Queenstown is dubbed the "Adventure Capital of the World" because of the variety of exciting, unique activities available in the region. Stop along the way for photo ops and lunch and take in The Remarkables that tower around the city, as well as its clear blue skies and the gorgeous Lake Wakatipu. After settling in, explore Queenstown before taking the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob's Peak to enjoy a dinner and spectacular views overlooking the mountains and Lake Wakatipu.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Sofitel Queenstown Hotel and Spa
Wanaka
After breakfast, travel to Arrowtown, a living historic settlement along the Arrow River established in 1862, during the height of the Otago gold rush, and one of the oldest towns in New Zealand. Take a tour of the historic gold mining sites and trails and see places that have evolved from mining wastelands to lush mountain landscapes. Then, continue on the journey to Wanaka, a popular ski and summer resort. Following arrival and check-in, enjoy an easy 4-mile hike through farmland along the Gladstone Track, which follows the shoreline of Lake Hawea. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure to explore this beautiful town.
Breakfast- included
Edgewater Hotel
Lake Tekapo
Embark on the scenic drive to Lake Tekapo, in the heart of Mackenzie Country, an intermontane basin within the region of Canterbury. This area is located on a lake surrounded by mountains and is famous for long days of sunshine and clear skies for night viewing. There are several scenic trails here, including the 1.8-mile Mount John Summit Circuit Track, which ends near New Zealand's finest observatory. University of Canterbury Mount John Observatory, located in the heart of Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, is New Zealand's only professional research observatory and sits atop Mount John's peak. This evening, take part in the Dark Sky Project, an unforgettable stargazing experience with some of the darkest, clearest skies in the Southern Hemisphere. Accompanied by astronomy experts, open your eyes to the Southern Sky and gain a richer understanding of both Maori and Western knowledge systems.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Peppers Bluewater Resort
Christchurch
After a hearty breakfast, travel to Christchurch, stopping in the historic port town of Lyttelton. Located on the tip of Banks Peninsula, it is the most important port in the South Island. The devastating 2011 earthquake destroyed much of Lyttletons's historic fabric, and those remnants are still visible today. After lunch at a local cafe (cost on own), go on a walk to the Lyttelton Timeball Station, a monument to 19th Century maritime travel originally built in 1876 and restored after the earthquake, which takes visitors back in time to see early nautical communication. Continue on the drive to Christchurch, where the many scars left by the earthquake are just as present as the incredible work of proud citizens who have joined together to rebuild their city.
Breakfast- included
The Distinction Hotel
Christchurch
Today, meet your Christchurch guide to venture through the laneways of Otautahi Christchurch, New Zealand's most 'British' city. Learn about the history and settlement of the country's oldest city, which was badly damaged by the 2011 earthquake and its aftershocks. Witness how the city has joined together to build itself up again, notably at the Cardboard Cathedral, which was erected as a temporary replacement for the city's historic Neo-Gothic Anglican cathedral collapsed due to the quake. The transitional cathedral is a symbol of hope and resilience as it was the first significant structure rebuilt in the recovery efforts. End the tour at Quake City, a special exhibition from Canterbury Museum where visitors can better understand the impact of the Canterbury earthquakes on this area and the extraordinary strength and heroism of the local communities, emergency services, international rescue teams, and thousands of volunteers. Learn some Te Reo Maori (the Maori language) and have meaningful interactions with local community members to gain deeper insight into their rich culture and how the local Maori are proud of their contributions to this modern era, as well as to New Zealand's cultural heritage. Later, enjoy a special treat in the form of a personal tour of Weft Knitting Company, a Christchurch manufacturer of quality knitwear and thermalwear that is made sustainably using possum and wool products. Have a look around their outlet store before going on a drive through the Residential Red Zone, where houses were demolished after being declared unsafe and natural parkland is returning. This evening, have dinner at the Christchurch Botanic Gardens' famous Curators House restaurant, where Sally's family and local friends will join the group for a special meal and evening.
Breakfast-Dinner included
The Distinction Hotel
Hokitika
Wake up early this morning to board the TranzAlpine train, one of the world's great train journeys, covering 139 miles one-way and taking just under 5 hours. The train travels coast-to-coast through the 'Great Divide' and the imposing spine of mountains that partitions New Zealand's South Island. Along the way, passengers can marvel at scenic views of the expansive Canterbury Plains, Springfield, and Arthur's Pass, following an ancient Maori trail through the mountains of the Southern Alps that astounds the senses. Stop in Arthur's Pass for a short hike to stretch your legs, enjoy the mountain scenery and flora, and look for the charismatic Kea. The driver will meet the group to continue south to Hokitika, a town on the west coast of New Zealand known for its history of gold mining, forestry, gift shops full of jade and gold, excellent fish and chips, and bioluminescent glowworm grottos. Upon arrival at Hokitika, walk to the beach to see the driftwood art and check out local shops. Dinner is on your own this evening since there is a variety of restaurants in the area. After dark, you will be entranced by the glowing lights of a glowworm grotto.
Breakfast-Lunch- included
Beachfront Hotel Hokitika
Nelson
A winding drive to Nelson begins along the spectacular coast road to Punakaiki, a beach where visitors can witness the unique stratigraphic Pancake Rocks and spectacular blowholes. If visiting during nesting season, it may also be possible to encounter the Westland Petrel, the largest mainland burrow-nesting petrel. Hector's dolphins, the only endemic dolphin in New Zealand, are also sometimes seen off the coast here. Continue the journey through the Buller Gorge, a deep canyon that separates the towns of Murchison and Westport and through which Buller River flows, and stop in Murchison for lunch (cost on own). The afternoon drive through scenic mountains and farmland takes us to Nelson. Upon arrival, check into the Tides Hotel and spend the remainder of the late afternoon and evening at leisure.
Breakfast- included
The Tides Hotel
Nelson
Nelson Tasman is located at the top of the South Island, nestled between the Tasman Bay and the Richmond mountain ranges. Due to its pleasant mild climate, it has long been a sunny and warm recreational destination for New Zealanders. It is also the gateway to the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park. Travel to the beautiful beach town of Kaiteriteri to embark on a private boat ride through Abel Tasman National Park, having an option to stop at one of the many bays on the journey. Here, you can take a walk for up to an hour before meeting up at the boat once again. Keep an eye out for lazy seals soaking up the sun, Cormorants hanging in the trees watching over you, or Little Penguins hiding in the bush. Tonight, enjoy a pub dinner at The Prince Albert, a local and delicious eatery back in Nelson.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
The Tides Hotel
Blenheim
Go on another beautiful drive to Renwick and Blenheim, located in the heart of New Zealand's well-known Marlborough wine country. Blenheim is also home to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, an aeronautical museum created in the 1990s that garnered significant community support, including that of Sir Peter Jackson, director of the Lord of the Rings movie trilogy, who helped expand the museum's exhibitions with the help of Weta Workshop and WingNut Films Productions, two local and prolific creative companies. These exhibitions not only tell the story of the airplanes but also the people and places associated with them, especially their connection to New Zealand. Lunch today is at Allan Scott Winery, where you will have a taste of the wines before enjoying a lunch of local produce. Later in the afternoon, visit the Framingham Estate, an accredited environmentally sustainable vineyard that is famous for its Riesling.
Breakfast-Lunch- included
Blenheim Scenic Hotel
Wellington
This morning, take the Interislander Ferry from the South Island to the North Island. This 3-hour voyage across the Cook Strait has been described as one of the most beautiful in the world. It departs from Picton and winds through the gorgeous Totaranui, or Queen Charlotte Sounds, before crossing the open water to the Wellington Harbour. Wellington is the capital of New Zealand and your gateway to the North Island. The magnificent harbor and surrounding hills provide stunning views wherever you are in the city. Devote this afternoon to a tour of Te Papa Museum of New Zealand, the country's largest museum, with multiple galleries that house imaginative exhibits throughout the year and interactive experiences that explore the country's unique natural environment, the triumphs and tragedies of colonial history, and the culture and history of the Maori people. This evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel overlooking the harbor.
Breakfast-Dinner included
The Copthorne Wellington
Paraparaumu
Today, you will be treated to a Kapiti Island Nature Tour. Kapiti Island is one of New Zealand's oldest and most important nature reserves, which successfully eradicated invasive mammal species to become a bird sanctuary with limited public access. It is one of the few places where it is possible to easily see endemic birds like the New Zealand Kaka, North Island Kokako, South Island Takahe, and Stitchbird. Here, visitors can find lush native vegetation and easy walking. This evening, Sally will invite two friends to join the group for dinner at a local restaurant; Kevin Milne, a New Zealand television and radio personality, and John Robinson, an International New Zealand wool promoter who was raised on a farm and understands agriculture in New Zealand. John also raises English Leicester sheep - an heirloom breed in New Zealand.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Raumati Sands Apartments
Taupo
Today, embark on the journey to the volcanic region of Taupo, passing by the striking active peaks of Mount Ngauruhoe, Mount Ruapehu, the Kaimanawa Range, and Mount Tongariro, all within Tongariro National Park, which is famous for being the filming location for Mordor in The Lord of the Rings. Stop in the park to hike one of its scenic trails before continuing on to the lakeside town of Taupo. Known for its world-class fly fishing, Taupo offers the chance to catch trophy-sized trout, introduced to the lake many years ago. If you've packed your rod, we can even stop at one of the locals' favorite fishing spots.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Suncourt Hotel
Rotorua
Following breakfast, head to one of Aotearoa's most famous towns, Rotorua, traveling via the powerful Huka Falls and Orakei Korako Cave and Thermal Park. Situated between Taupo and Rotorua on the banks of the Waikato River, Orakei Korako is considered one of the most stunning geothermal attractions in all of New Zealand. At Orakei Korako, take a short boat to the geothermal field to hike through mud pools and steaming streams to one of the only geothermal caves in the world. Native plants are labeled on these well-laid trails, and there is also a good cafe for lunch (cost on own). After settling into the hotel in Rotorua, enjoy free time to walk the city park before getting together later to enjoy the geothermal pools at the Polynesian Spa.
Breakfast- included
Millennium Hotel
Rotorua
This morning, visit the National Kiwi Hatchery to learn about New Zealand's renowned Kiwi conservation program while touring the hatchery, which has successfully hatched over 2,100 kiwi chicks. Explore the interactive Kiwi burrow where it is possible to see the life cycle of a Kiwi from egg to burrow. Later, visit Mountain Jade, a jade-carving studio where visitors can observe revered New Zealand artists and master carvers working with pounamu to create beautiful jewelry and art. Jade, called "greenstone," or pounamu in Maori, is found in abundance on the west coast and treasured by the Ngai Tahu, the principal Maori community of the South Island. Spend the rest of the day connecting with New Zealand's Maori heritage through insightful and meaningful cultural activities. Meet members of a local iwi, or tribe, who will guide the group to a pre-European Maori settlement that was buried after a volcanic eruption. Then, enjoy a wonderful performance that showcases Maori stories of long ago before experiencing a Maori hangi - a traditional Maori style of cooking dinner in an earthen oven heated with rocks, which makes it a unique and tasty experience.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Millennium Hotel
Auckland
Depart for Auckland today. En route, visit the Pukorokoro Miranda Shorebird Center on the large bay of Firth of Thames, which is a high tide roost for thousands of shorebirds. Some of the species that can be found here seasonally include the Black-tailed Godwit, a migratory bird with one of the longest flyways in the world, the Wrybill, and the South Island Oystercatcher. Scientists and international researchers come here to study, and it is a pilgrimage site for birders. After learning about the research and looking over the shorebirds from marsh trails, continue into the ciy, staying near Waitemata Harbour in downtown Auckland.
Breakfast- included
Voco Auckland
Auckland
The last day of this adventure starts with a trip to the rugged west coast and Muriwai, a beautiful beach with an impressive coastline of towering cliff-top trails that are home to an Australasian Gannet colony. After exploring Muriwai, enjoy some free time for souvenir shopping before taking an elevator to the top of the Sky Tower for a special farewell dinner overlooking the city to celebrate the group's amazing experiences in New Zealand.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Voco Auckland
Departure
At the appropriate time, according to individual flight schedules, you will be taken to the Auckland International Airport for your flight(s) home.
Breakfast- included
Land Cost

$11,495

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $2300

What's Included
  • Arrival and departure transfers based on individual flight schedules
  • Accommodations with private bathrooms
  • Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Full time guide for the duration of your program
  • Non alcoholic beverage with meals
  • Water during meals
  • All tips
  • Carbon Offset
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Travel Insurance
  • Visa fees
Pricing Details
Cost is based on a minimum of 15 participants in double occupancy.

A deposit of $500 is required for participants to register and reserve space on the program. Reservations submitted beyond the final payment deadline noted below will require full payment to enroll. 120 or more days before departure: $300 cancellation fee; remaining balance is refunded. 119 - 96 days before departure: full deposit of $500 is forfeited. 95 - 0 days before departure: 100% of program price is forfeited.

Holbrook Travel strongly recommends the purchase of travel protection for medical emergencies while traveling and to protect your investment. Please note the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage or to exclude pre-existing conditions with Trip Cancellation coverage may require policy purchase within 10-14 days of your initial deposit, depending upon the provider.

Single room supplement $2300


Final payment due date: July 19, 2026

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter New Zealand. Passports must have at least one blank page for the entry stamp and must be valid for at least 3 months after your planned date of departure from New Zealand. As this requirement is subject to change at any time without notice, we recommend at least 6 months' validity.

To enter New Zealand, U.S. citizens are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (NZeTA) prior to departure. Requesting an NZeTA costs NZD $17 through the free mobile app or NZD $23 if applying through the website. Allow up to 72 hours for processing, although many requests will be processed more quickly. To apply, you will need your passport, a credit card or debit card (Visa or MasterCard), an email address, and a photo of your face or a device that can take one. Visit https://nzeta.immigration.govt.nz for more information.

Travelers must also pay the IVL, a levy that funds tourism infrastructure and helps protect the natural environment. The IVL costs NZD $35 and is paid at the same time you request your NZeTA.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the New Zealand Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality.

Health Information

Please note: Due to the fast-changing nature of travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, the information below does not reflect any current COVID travel requirements for this destination. Please visit the U.S. Department of State or CDC Travelers’ Health webpages or consult your Holbrook travel specialist for the most up-to-date requirements.

Immunizations

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up-to-date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into New Zealand.

Though not required for entry, the CDC recommends vaccination against hepatitis A and hepatitis B for some travelers.

Please consult the CDC website and your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

Insects

The CDC advises that some insects in New Zealand may be capable of spreading disease. The CDC recommends taking normal precautions against insect bites: Cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin. Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later).

After spending time outdoors in grassy or wooded areas, the CDC recommends showering and conducting a full-body check for ticks. If you find a tick attached to your skin, safely remove it as soon as possible.

In wetter areas, particularly in Fiordland, sand flies can be pests but are not known to transmit disease and are effectively controlled by use of an insect repellent.

Sun Exposure

New Zealand's clear, unpolluted atmosphere and relatively low latitudes produce sunlight stronger than much of Europe or North America. The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.

Resources

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Packing Recommendations

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of the items below in our Gear Store.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.

Remember that New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere, and seasons are reversed from those in the Northern Hemisphere.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program, and pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. Weather conditions in New Zealand can change rapidly. Be prepared for cold, wet weather at any time of year. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services at additional cost or you may hand-wash items.

  • A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts that can be worn in layers
  • Shorts/skirts
  • A combination of light- and medium-weight pants/trousers
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • 1-2 jackets or sweater/sweatshirts
  • 1-2 bathing suit(s) for the beach or hot springs, if applicable, plus many hotels have pools
  • Socks – Bring extra pairs.
  • Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes suitable for forest hikes and walking over uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more active itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. If you’re visiting the beach, you may also want a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes.
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
  • Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
  • Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

  • Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant, etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites (and to be considerate of your fellow travelers).
  • Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel
  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap. Most—but not all—hotel rooms provide a hair dryer, but you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Insect repellent with an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF – If you’ll be in the ocean, we recommend reef-safe sunscreen.
  • A travel pack of tissues

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

Miscellaneous

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Passport, NZeTA, and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm
  • A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Non-perishable snacks – Please make sure you have NO fresh food in your bag upon arrival in New Zealand. There is an instant fine of $400.00 if food is found. You may bring in dried food provided it is sealed. Please declare this food when you arrive.
  • Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage.
  • Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
  • A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
  • Travel-size umbrella – Some people find this unwieldy to carry, while others find it offers better protection than a rain jacket alone.
  • Money belt
  • Voltage converter, plug adapter, and chargers for electronics
I appreciate that Holbrook uses local guides. I like that we stopped at many local spots. I like to support local people as much as possible.
- Pamela Hines
Costa Rica , 2019
Questions

Contact Sandy Schmidt at 877-907-5360 or email Sandy. 

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