Qualmark accreditation
Kiwiana Tours holds Qualmark accreditation, New Zealand Tourism’s official quality assurance program for safety practices and service quality.
For parents
Confidence before they travel
Clear information for families about student safety, supervision, accommodation, consent and what to expect on a Kiwiana Tours trip.
Information for parents
Safety, consent and support
At Kiwiana Tours, we understand the importance of your child's safety because we are parents too. We constantly assess risks to ensure your child is in the best possible care during their tour.
Your child's safety is our priority. As a professional and respected tour operator, we continually review and proactively manage risks associated with our tours. Our safety practices and operating procedures are framed and guided by Qualmark standards.
How we help
How do we ensure safety?
Parental permission
Parent permission is now connected to the booking process. When a student booking requires consent, parents receive the details and confirmation steps for that tour.
Optional activities
Optional activities are offered throughout some tours, but students can only participate when parent approval has been given.
Licensed activities
Activities are selected from established operators, with Qualmark standards guiding safety practices and service quality.
Professional tour management
Students are met at 28 Princes Street, Auckland City 1010, and accompanied by a professionally trained tour manager throughout the tour.
Healthy meals
Home-cooked meals are provided to keep students well nourished. We cater to special diets including gluten-free, halal and lactose-free options.
What to expect
Care from booking to return
During the tour, your child might not text or email frequently because they may be out of cellphone coverage or enjoying time with new friends. In the unlikely event of an issue, we will notify you or the school immediately.
Unbeatable value
Many activities are included in the tour package, so students do not need to spend as much of their own money while travelling.
Qualified tour managers
Our tour managers hold current first aid certificates, are trained to work with teenagers and have extensive experience running professional tours.
Appropriate supervision
We maintain a suitable adult-to-student ratio, and adults supporting student tours are police vetted.
Safe activities
Students participate in well-established activities, with parent permission required for anything remotely risky.
Modern transport
Travel is in modern coaches equipped with seatbelts and driven by skilled, licensed drivers.
Most importantly, you can be confident that your child will have an incredible time, make new friends, boost their self-confidence and improve their English. They will look back on the tour as a highlight of their time in New Zealand.
Parent FAQs
Common questions
Quick answers to the practical questions families most often ask before a student tour.
What kind of accommodation do students stay in?
Tours usually stay in shared rooms at selected holiday parks, lodges and hostels. Room upgrades can be arranged on request at an extra cost where available.
Are room upgrades available?
Yes. Twin, double or ensuite upgrades may be available on request. Extra charges apply and availability depends on the tour and accommodation provider.
Where do we complete parent permission?
Parent permission is now part of the booking process. When a student booking requires consent, parents receive the relevant details and confirmation steps connected to that booking.
What is the average group size?
Most scheduled tours have around eight to twenty travellers. Individual tour pages show the most relevant details for each departure.
What payment options are accepted?
Bookings can be paid online by credit card through Stripe. Alternative payment options, including bank transfer, can be discussed with Kiwiana Tours before booking.
Where does the bus depart from?
Scheduled departures usually leave from 28 Princes Street, Grafton, Auckland CBD 1010. Weekend departures are commonly 8.00am, but families should always check the itinerary for the confirmed time.
Can a tour run on a different date?
Yes. Custom tours can be arranged for groups of two or more. Send us your preferred dates, group size, tour type and any key requirements so we can prepare a quote.
What ages do you cater for?
High school tours are designed for students aged 14 to 17. Adult tours are for travellers aged 18 and over.
Do you follow the Code of Practice for international students?
Kiwiana Tours follows the relevant care and safety expectations for international students while travelling with us, and we also respect school rules during high school tours.
Still have questions?
Talk with Kiwiana Tours
If you would like to discuss safety, consent, dietary needs or anything specific to your child, send our team a message.