Terms & Conditions

Operating policies, reservation requirements, payment structures, and cancellation terms.

Effective Date: September 2026

1. Booking & Quotes

All tours, transfers, and custom multi-day journeys operated by South Island Scenic Tours Ltd are quoted in New Zealand Dollars (NZD) inclusive of 15% Goods and Services Tax (GST). Quotes remain valid for 14 days from the date of issue unless specified otherwise.

2. Payment Structure

To secure your vehicle and driver-guide reservation:

Flexible Upfront Deposit: A flexible deposit (customers choose 10%, 30%, or 50% of the total quote) is payable upon formal quote acceptance to confirm your vehicle and driver-guide reservation.
Remaining Balance: The remaining balance (90%, 70%, or 50%) is payable on the tour starting day, prior to departure, via direct bank transfer, unless alternative terms have been agreed in writing.
Method: Payment is by direct credit / New Zealand bank transfer. Official bank account details and your unique reference are provided upon quote acceptance.

3. Cruise Excursion Miss-Port Guarantee

For cruise passengers docking at Timaru Port (PrimePort): If your cruise ship is unable to dock due to adverse maritime weather or revised navigational itineraries, your deposit will be 100% refunded or rolled over to a future port call.

4. Itinerary Adjustments & Weather

In the Southern Alps of New Zealand, mountain weather (such as alpine snow on Arthur’s Pass or high-wind closures) can change quickly. Our driver-guides prioritize safety at all times. If a road or mountain pass is closed by authorities, we will consult with you and arrange the most scenic and practical alternative route.

5. Third-Party Activities

Certain activities (such as Milford Sound cruises, helicopter flights, and ski-planes) are operated by independent certified third-party providers. South Island Scenic Tours acts as an arranging agent for these experiences. Their terms, availability, and weather cancellation policies apply directly.

6. Contact & Disputes

For any questions regarding these terms, please contact:

South Island Scenic Tours Ltd
Timaru & Christchurch, New Zealand
Email: info@southislandscenictours.co.nz
Phone: +64 3 688 0000