Terms & Conditions
1. Acceptance of Terms
By accessing, booking, or participating in any tour operated by The Nature’s Trail, you agree to be bound by these Terms & Conditions. Please read them carefully before confirming your booking.
2. Booking and Payment
Deposit Requirement
A 20% non-refundable deposit of the total tour cost is required at the time of booking. This confirms your reservation and allows us to secure arrangements on your behalf.
Final Payment
The remaining 80% balance must be paid 1 day prior to the commencement of your tour.
Payment Options for International Guests
- International Bank Transfer
A 3.5% transfer fee applies. Please make the payment 1–2 days before your tour. - PayPal
Accepted globally. A 4.8% processing fee applies. - Cash on Arrival (No Extra Fee)
You may pay the remaining balance in cash upon arrival in New Zealand. - Credit/Debit Cards
- International Cards: 2.8% fee
- Domestic Cards: 1.5% fee
- American Express: Accepted with additional fees
3. Cancellation & Refund Policy
- Cancellations made more than 24 hours before the tour start time are fully refundable (excluding any payment method fees).
- Cancellations made less than 24 hours prior to the tour start are non-refundable.
- The 20% deposit becomes non-refundable within 24 hours of tour commencement.
4. Complimentary Tour Customization
The Nature’s Trail offers free itinerary modifications, giving you the flexibility to adjust your travel plans at any time before your tour begins.
5. Tour Participation
Age Requirements
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Some tours may have age restrictions based on the activity.
Health & Safety
Participants must be in reasonable health and physical condition. Please disclose any medical condition that may affect your ability to participate—at least 24 hours prior to the tour, in writing.
Behaviour
We reserve the right to remove or refuse service to any participant who is intoxicated, disruptive, or poses a safety risk.
Equipment
Necessary equipment is provided unless stated otherwise. Personal belongings are carried at your own risk.
6. Luggage Policy
- All bags must be clearly labelled with your name, contact details, and destination.
- Each guest may bring:
- 1 large bag (up to 25 kg / 158 cm total size)
- 1 small bag (up to 7 kg)
- Additional bags incur a $30 fee and must be pre-arranged.
- Oversized items (bikes, surfboards, pets) are not permitted.
- Collapsible wheelchairs/strollers are counted as one checked bag if they meet size/weight rules.
- The Nature’s Trail is not responsible for loss or damage to luggage or fragile items.
7. Intellectual Property
7.1 Photography Consent
By joining our tours, you grant The Nature’s Trail permission to use your photographs for marketing and promotional purposes.
Images may be edited or combined with other content. You may request corrections, but we may decline if the material is already published.
7.2 Website Content
All text, logos, images, and materials on our platforms are protected by copyright laws.
8. Liability & Insurance
- Our liability is limited to the cost of the tour purchased.
- We are not responsible for indirect, consequential, or punitive damages.
- Participants are strongly advised to hold travel and health insurance.
- All participation is at your own risk.
9. Health, Safety & Risk Acknowledgement
- The Nature’s Trail is not responsible for injuries occurring during sightseeing, hiking, trekking, or at activity sites.
- Children must be supervised by parents/guardians at all times.
- Medical conditions must be disclosed in writing at least 24 hours before the tour.
- Failure to disclose health issues voids refund eligibility.
- We may restrict, amend, or cancel a participant’s involvement if their health or behaviour poses a risk.
- Participation in third-party activities (booked through us or included in your itinerary) is subject to the safety policies of the respective operator.
- Guests must bring suitable clothing for weather, cold environments, slopes, or sudden environmental changes.
10. Force Majeure
- No refunds apply for unused services unless suppliers approve exceptions.
- Weather disruptions, natural events, or vehicle issues are beyond our control.
- We will attempt to arrange alternatives when possible, but financial responsibility cannot be guaranteed.
- Travel insurance is highly recommended.
11. Governing Law
All bookings and services are governed by the laws of New Zealand, and disputes fall under New Zealand court jurisdiction.
12. Changes to Terms
The Nature’s Trail may update or modify the Terms & Conditions at any time. Changes become effective once posted on our website. Continued use of our services signifies acceptance of the updated terms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – The Nature’s Trail
1. How much deposit is required to book a tour?
A 20% deposit is required to secure your reservation.
2. When do I need to pay the remaining balance?
The remaining 80% must be paid 1 day before the tour.
3. What payment options are available?
We accept:
- International bank transfers (3.5% fee)
- PayPal (4.8% fee)
- Cash on arrival (no fee)
- Credit/debit cards
- 2.8% fee for international cards
- 1.5% for domestic cards
- American Express also accepted with extra fees
4. Can I cancel my tour and get a refund?
Yes—if you cancel more than 24 hours before the tour, your payment is fully refundable (minus processing fees).
Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
5. Can I modify my itinerary after booking?
Yes! We offer complimentary itinerary adjustments before your tour begins.
6. Are there age restrictions?
Children under 18 must travel with an adult. Certain tours may have minimum age requirements.
7. What happens if I have medical conditions?
You must inform us in writing at least 24 hours before the tour.
Failure to disclose important health information may void refunds and participation.
8. Are third-party activities included in the tour safe?
All third-party activities follow their own safety standards.
Risk and safety responsibilities lie with the respective providers.
9. What is the luggage allowance?
Each guest may bring:
- 1 large bag (max 25 kg / 158 cm)
- 1 small bag (max 7 kg)
Extra bags cost $30 each and must be arranged in advance.
10. Are oversized items allowed?
No—items like bikes, surfboards, and pets cannot be carried.
11. Do you take photos during the tour?
Yes, photos may be taken for promotional use. By joining the tour, you consent to this.
12. What happens if the weather affects my tour?
Bad weather, vehicle issues, or unforeseen natural events may impact itineraries.
We’ll try to rearrange your experience, but refunds are not guaranteed unless approved by suppliers.
13. Is travel insurance required?
It is strongly recommended for your protection against unexpected events.
14. What laws govern The Nature’s Trail services?
All bookings follow the laws of New Zealand, and disputes are handled by New Zealand courts.