FAQs

What is included in the price?

Snacks; hot drink; pick up and drop off any central accommodation or information centres

What should I wear or bring with me?

Suitable shoes; appropriate clothing. All you need to bring is water, a camera and a sense of adventure!

What kind of refreshments do you provide?

Hot drinks (tea, coffee and hot chocolate); biscuits and cakes.

What type of vehicles do you use? How many seats in a vehicle?

We use a mixture of Land Rovers; Toyota Land Cruisers: Ford Transit vans and other 6 seater vans. Our Land Rovers are certified for 8 passengers but we generally take only 6. Our Land Cruisers have 6 seats. Transit vans have 11 seats. We can also provide 19, 21 and 22 seater buses.

What type of bikes do you use? Are they easy to ride?

Our quad adventures feature Suzuki quads, renowned for their pioneering history in four-wheel technology since 1982 with the LT125, developed in rural Whanganui by Rod Coleman. Over 34 years of continuous engineering enhancements, Suzuki has developed an unparalleled lineup of ATVs. These models stand out for their advanced features, offering comfort and reliability in everyday riding.

Do you have child seats available?

Yes, we are able to offer child and booster seats on request at time of booking.

How much walking is involved?

The longest walk is about 15 minutes but it is not necessary to participate if you do not want to.

Do you cater for people with physical disabilities?

Yes. Prior advice is essential so we can allocate an appropriate vehicle. We are committed to providing a welcoming and accessible experience for all our guests. While we enthusiastically welcome guests with physical disabilities, please note that our quad, walk, and bike tours are not equipped for those confined to wheelchairs. For a smooth and enjoyable experience, each handicapped guest must be accompanied by someone to assist with getting in and out of our Defenders. To maintain comfort and safety, we limit the presence of one wheelchair per Defender and cannot accommodate additional passengers in the back when a wheelchair is on board. Please get in touch with us to discuss your needs and how we can make your adventure memorable and comfortable!

What if I am Pregnant?

We leave it up to you. It is a good idea to mention it when booking so that our reservations staff can explain the trip and the amount of rough terrain you will be going over. Please be advised that quad biking is not recommended for expecting mothers.

Are there any other restrictions?

We only have weight restrictions for Quad biking. The weight limit for Quad Biking is 150 kg.

Please be advised that quad biking is not recommended for expecting mothers or individuals with disabilities or physical conditions that may affect their participation, such as hearing loss, vision impairment, or loss of mobility.

We have a strict drug and alcohol policy. If the guide considers that you are unfit to ride a quad because you are still under the influence of either we are unable to take you on the tour. There may be no refund offered.

What if I have a medical condition?

Most medical conditions will not prevent you from taking part, But we ask that if your condition requires controlling medication that you bring it along in case of emergency as we are in a semi-isolated environment and may have to wait for medical assistance. Our guides are all first aid trained and we have full procedures in place in case of an accident or emergency.

Please be advised that quad biking is not recommended for individuals with disabilities or physical conditions that may affect their participation, such as hearing loss, vision impairment, or loss of mobility.

What if I have never ridden a quad bike before? What type of bikes do you use?

We provide full training for all skill levels to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable quad biking experience, using the advanced and comfortable Suzuki ATVs, a brand known for its innovation and quality since 1982.

Requirement: A valid credit card on the day for insurance and liability purposes

Duration of tours? Will there be a bathroom break?

Tours are between 3 ½- 4 ½ hours. There will be a bathroom break.

Does the weather affect any trip departures? Weather Cancellation Policy

Our trips will depart in all weather conditions unless the operations manager considers it to be too dangerous.

Weather cancellation policy
Outback New Zealand Limited (t/a Nomad Safaris, Info & Track, Info & Snow)
We, Outback New Zealand Ltd, are committed to the protection of our employees, clients &
property from accidental injury or damage from work carried out by, and on behalf of, the
business. We, Outback New Zealand, adopt health, safety, and welfare as a fundamental
business objective.
In meeting this commitment, management will comply with all legislative requirements and
take all practicable steps to:
● Provide a safe place of work, safe equipment, and proper materials.
● Activities are reviewed by competent staff (internal technical advisors).
● Establish and insist that safe work methods be always practiced.
● Provide supervision and training.
● Ensure employees and clients understand and accept their responsibility to promote a
safe and healthy place of work and are part of the safety management process.
● Comply with all Health and Safety Legislation.
● Prevention of serious harm.
● Continually improve.
As part of this commitment, we reserve the right to delay or cancel any tours or activities if
weather conditions are not suitable. This decision will be made by the Operations Manager or a
delegated representative. Guides and Drivers are also authorized to modify their routes, or
shorten a tour if weather conditions unexpectedly change. Reasons for this could include, but
are not limited to:

Excessive rain causing risk of flooding
Extreme high winds
Snowfall closing roads
Excessive Ice on roading network
Risk of lightning strike during tours
Weather related State of Emergency declared by authorities
Any other extreme environmental or weather event, Such as Earthquake, Landslide,
Wildfire, Tsunami, Cyclone, Volcanic Eruption.
Weather Cancellation policy v 1.2 Feb 2024

Is it possible to buy Gift certificates?

We have Gift Certificates available for all trips if you wish to buy for another person.

Can I book with my travel agent?

You will be able to book with most international travel agents.

Are there any additional charges?

You will need to pay for anything you want that is not included in the trip details.

Where will you pick me up and drop me off?

We will pick you up and drop you at any central accommodation, or the information centre in town, 37 Shotover Street.

Do you have parking?

We don’t have parking facilities at our shop located at “37 Shotover Street”. However, we do have free parking in front of our office at “2 Industrial Place”. If you chose the shop for your pick up location, and you prefer the office, please contact us: res@nomadsafaris.co.nz or give us a call: Phone +64 (0) 3 442 6699 Free Phone 0800 688 222 (within NZ)

Do you cater for those with special dietary requirements?

As we provide light snacks only we do not cater for those with specific requirements unless requested and agreed to.

What languages are your tours offered in? Can I book a tour if I don’t speak English?

In order to participate in the Quad Bikes tour, you must have a good understanding of English. For the other tours, English only is guaranteed. You are very welcome to book a tour even if you do not speak English. The scenery speaks for itself!

I can’t find my Question here!

For detailed information about each tour, including FAQs, please visit the specific tour pages on our website.

If you cannot find the answer you are looking for please visit our contact us page and get in touch.

Reservations FAQS

How far in advance do I need to book?

We recommend that you book as early as possible especially during the busy months (November – March) to avoid disappointment. However, bookings may be made online until 7pm the day before departure or by phone until the time of the trip departure. Feel free to contact us if you experience any difficulty while booking.

How can I pay? What should I do if I’m having trouble making a reservation?

Our online booking system takes payment through DPS and only accepts Mastercard and Visa. If you wish to make payment by Amex, Union Pay or cash please call us on 0800 688 222 or visit our shop at 37 Shotover Street.

Is there a departure guarantee?

It is very unusual that our trips do not depart. Our operations manager will make the decision if conditions look too marginal.

What is the cancellation policy?

Within 24 hours of the trip departing, there will be no refund given unless there are exceptional circumstances. Important: get in touch if you need to cancel between 7 days and 24 hours prior to your tour: res@nomadsafaris.co.nz

Please also view our Terms & Conditions.

Can I change my mind and go on a different trip?

You may change your mind and go on a different trip as long as we get prior notice and have seats available.

Can we edit an existing reservation? Can guests change their trip?

To edit you reservation or change your trip, please email us at res@nomadsafaris.co.nz and we will we be happy to assist!

If my ticket says “unconfirmed” –what does this mean?

We require 2 people for a trip to go ahead. If you are the first person to book your ticket will say unconfirmed – you will need to contact our reservations team (0800 688222) at least 1 day before departure to reconfirm your booking.

How do I confirm my booking? What if I have not received a confirmation email?

Automatic email comes out to you as soon as you book your tour, please, check your junk. If you do not get one, email us at res@nomadsafaris.co.nz and we will resend it.

Do you have group rates? Can we go with a large group? What is the maximum number of people?

We’re big… and small. Our fleet of branded 4WD vehicles carries over 100 people, while each vehicle takes just 6 passengers. Contact our sales team for group rates. (reservations@nomadsafaris.co.nz)

Thinking about a group event in Queenstown?

Imagine the impact of a fleet of off-road beasts rumbling into the hotel driveway to collect your group. Then rolling out for an off-road convoy to an exclusive Queenstown backcountry location. All year, all weather operator, flexible itineraries, off-road vehicles, Qualmark Enviro Gold endorsed with a team of guiding professionals, quality assured: we are triple NZ tourism Award Winner, and more. Check out here.

Can I customise a trip to suit my interests?

If you wish to privately charter a vehicle we can customise a trip for you depending on availability -usually within the timeframes of a scheduled trip. Please contact us for more information.

What are your child rates/ Child ages?

We do have child rates available. Infants (0-3 years) travel for free and children (4-14 years) travel at a discounted price.

Can my child come on this tour?

Our 4WD tours in Queenstown welcome all ages; there’s no minimum age requirement. We provide child and booster seats upon request at booking. We’ll take them on an adventure! While there’s no minimum height requirement for our 4WD tours, the Essential Queenstown and the UTV do have minimum requirements. For Quad Biking, riders must be at least 16, and for E-bikes 14 and older, in line with global safety standards.

What if I’m running late?

Please contact us at res@nomadsafaris.co.nz or give us a call +64 (0) 3 442 6699 as soon as possible if you’re running late.

What days are you open?

We are open 365 days a year. Contact us for more information:

Call: 0800 688 222 / Email: reservations@nomadsafaris.co.nz

Important info: from the 1st November 2023 on, shop opens from 7:30am to 5:30pm. But, feel free to contact us or give us a call +64 (0) 3 442 6699 , Free Phone 0800 688 222 (NZ) (phones answered from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm).

MORE ABOUT OUR TOURS

Quad Bikes. What can I expect?

This is New Zealand’s most spectacular quad biking, where the adventure is in your hands! We give you 2.25 hs on your Suzuki quad bike and the most scenic location in Queenstown which is exclusive to us. Queenstown Hill is a high country sheep station with more than 25kms of varied trails to play on. Go off- road and explore the terrain with your expert guide. The weight limit is 150 kg.

Only one person can ride the bike.
You don’t need a special license for the Quad Bike tour. You just must be 16+ with a good understanding of English.

Requirement: A valid credit card on the day for insurance and liability purposes. For detailed information about the tour, including FAQs, please visit this page on our website.

4WD Tours – Gold Heritage. What can I expect, what are the options?

Embark on an exhilarating off-road adventure with Nomad Safaris, featuring authentic 4-wheel drives. Prepare for exciting river fordings, secluded rural paths, opportunities for gold panning, and challenging mountainous routes. Our small group 4WD excursions from Queenstown delve deep into the remote areas of the South Island, breathtaking landscapes, and heart-pounding off-road experiences.

Skippers Canyon 4WD ranks among the world’s most thrilling drives. Perched high above the Shotover River, it offers breathtaking views of the gorge. Historically celebrated as the wealthiest river during the gold rush era, the Shotover River still yields gold, presenting a chance to discover your own treasure.
Macetown 4WD Journey along the ancient wagon trail used by miners to reach the once-bustling, now-deserted gold mining town of Macetown. This ghost town, a relic of the gold rush, is now a preserved area under the Department of Conservation. With Nomad Safaris, safely navigate through about 50 exhilarating river crossings and challenging narrow paths.

E-Bikes. How long am I cycling for? Do I have to cycle the whole time?

This half-day Queenstown wine tour combines cycling with flexible options to suit various fitness levels and preferences. The tour involves around 1.5 to 2 hours of biking, with the route adaptable based on rider speed and confidence. Participants not wishing to cycle the entire time can opt out at multiple points, where the guide will assist with loading the e-bikes for transport to the next location. A basic level of fitness is beneficial, but the e-bikes offer ease of riding with adjustable effort levels. Some prior cycling experience is recommended.

Minimum age recommended is 14 and up based on international safety standards.
You can we enjoy wine and still cycle safely.
Plus a designated driver will return you to Queenstown.
You will not get dirty on this wine tour, our bikes have mudguards.

Queenstown 360 UTV Tour. Is this a self-drive tour?

No, it is driven by one of our experienced guides to ensure you have a great off-road experience… Venture high above Queenstown in our “Mule” – a purpose-built and powerful UTV that gives you unobstructed views.

Lord of The Rings. What are the options? Best LOTR/Scenic Tours?

If you are interested in a trip that showcases the most LOTR scenes, then the Glenorchy LOTR/full day LOTR is the perfect choice due to its numerous set locations.

The Queenstown Lord of The Ring tour – (Wakatipu Basin) combines a true 4WD tour with film locations from the LOTR trilogy.
Glenorchy Lord Of the Rings– (Glenorchy) is the perfect sightseeing trip through the valleys beyond Glenorchy encompassing pivotal Lord of the Rings Scenes.
Both tours can be combined for a truly exciting day out.

Experience 4WD – U Drive . Where will I be driving? What do I need?

You will be off-roading on Queenstown Hill on unpaved roads, rocky terrain, some obstacles and the possibility of river driving, depending on ability (2-3hs). You must hold a current manual Full drivers licence. All of our vehicles are manual and if you have not driven them before this will impede on your experience.

Routeburn Guided Walk Half Day and Full Day. How hard is the walk?

The start of the walk is scenic and a gentle incline but there are some steeper sections if you are fit enough once you get to the Routeburn Flats Hut and beyond. If worried about your fitness there are options to walk as far as you want and return to the car park, the scenery is still very rewarding on this section of the track.

On our full day walk, you will weave through meadows, reflective tarns and alpine gardens. You’ll be rewarded with spectacular vistas over vast mountain ranges and valleys while getting a local to guide to walk you through this grand landscape. Our experienced guides can show you the very best that the Fiordland National Park has to offer.
You will enjoy a relaxed pace stroll on the half-day walk through the breathtaking forest. Surrounded by rivers, waterfalls and native birds, you will be transported to a world of peace. In other words, this is the ultimate alpine adventure. Rated one of the world’s “Top Ten Classic Hikes”, the Routeburn Track is a must-do. This track combines personal achievement in addition to awe-inspiring scenery to make this trip unmissable.

We recommend that clients wear comfortable appropriate footwear and warm layers all year round. Wilderness Guided Walks is an all-weather activity and rain jackets can be supplied. Tours operate all year round, track conditions permitting.

Combos. What are the options?

Nomad Safaris is proud to partner with select operators to bring you a variety of unique experiences. These specially designed combos allow you to get a whole new perspective on Queenstown.

Shotover Jet & 4WD Combo. Experience the Shotover Jet and climb on board a Nomad Safaris 4WD tour for a custom off road tour.
Earnslaw Burn Heli-Hobbit. Journey by helicopter to the mighty Mount Earnslaw and the spectacular landscape of Middle-Earth. Return to Queenstown joining Nomad Safaris for a bespoke 4WD tour of Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit filming locations.
Dart River Jet & 4WD Combo. Capture the diversity and richness of Queenstown, coupled with the serenity of the Mount Aspiring National Park. Travel through mountains and alongside alpine lakes.

Do you take photos during the tour? Where can I buy?

During the tour we occasionally take photos and videos for social media and will happily share them with you. However, we strongly encourage you to bring your own camera to capture and keep those special moments forever.

Private Charters. Can trips be customized?

We offer private charters that can be tailored to your interests. We can arrange custom tours and transport for special occasions and large groups, subject to availability. Please email us at res@nomadsafaris.co.nz and we will we be happy to assist!

Where can I leave a review?

Have a great time? We want to hear about it! Feel free to leave us a review on TripAdvisor , Google or Facebook!

DISCLOSURE OF RISKS

Outback New Zealand Limited (t/a Nomad Safaris) Disclosure of Risk for Four Wheel Drive Tours. Wakatipu, Glenorchy, Skippers Canyon, Macetown, Gold Seeker, Essential Queenstown, Private Charter We, Outback New Zealand, are committed to the protection of our employees, clients & property from accidental injury or damage from work carried out by, and on behalf of, the business. We, Outback New Zealand, adopt health, safety, and welfare as a fundamental business objective.
In meeting this commitment, management will comply with all legislative requirements and take all practicable steps to:
● Provide a safe place of work, safe equipment, and proper materials.
● Activities are reviewed by competent staff (internal technical advisors).
● Establish and insist that safe work methods be always practiced.
● Provide supervision and training.
● Ensure employees and clients understand and accept their responsibility to promote a safe and healthy place of work and are part of the safety management process.
● Comply with all Health and Safety Legislation.
● Prevention of serious harm.
● Continually improve.
Whilst we undertake all reasonably practicable steps to minimize, remove, or isolate risks during our tours, it still exists as it does in everyday life.
Risks you may be exposed to during your tour include, but are not limited to:

Motor vehicle accident including collision with other vehicles, stationary objects, or the land, rollovers, or vehicle fires.
Your own failure to heed safety warnings, both Verbal and Written
Actions of other road users or members of the public which could cause harm.
Risk of falling from alighting the motor vehicle.
Risk of falling or injury due to uneven, loose, or slippery terrain.
Risk of drowning.
Risk of injury or death due to natural events such as Earthquakes, Landslide, Flash Flooding, Treefall, Wildfire, Lightning, Blizzards, Volcanic Eruption, Tsunami, Cyclones, and any ongoing consequences of these events
Disclosure of Risk 4wd v 1.2 Feb 2024

Outback New Zealand Limited (t/a Nomad Safaris) Disclosure of Risk for 4wd Experience Self Drive Tour
We, Outback New Zealand Ltd, are committed to the protection of our employees, clients & property from accidental injury or damage from work carried out by, and on behalf of, the business. We, Outback New Zealand, adopt health, safety, and welfare as a fundamental business objective.
In meeting this commitment, management will comply with all legislative requirements and take all practicable steps to:
● Provide a safe place of work, safe equipment, and proper materials.
● Activities are reviewed by competent staff (internal technical advisors).
● Establish and insist that safe work methods be always practiced.
● Provide supervision and training.
● Ensure employees and clients understand and accept their responsibility to promote a safe and healthy place of work and are part of the safety management process.
● Comply with all Health and Safety Legislation.
● Prevention of serious harm.
● Continually improve. Whilst we undertake all reasonably practicable steps to minimize, remove, or isolate risks during our tours, it still exists as it does in everyday life.
Risks you may be exposed to during your tour include, but are not limited to:

Motor vehicle accident including veering from the track, rolling or flipping the vehicle, collision with other vehicles, stock, stationary objects, or the land, rollovers, or vehicle fires, or mechanical failure.
Your own failure to heed safety warnings, both verbal and written.
Risk of falling or injury due to uneven, loose, or slippery terrain.
Dangers associated with the working farm, including unpredictable actions of stock or wildlife.
Actions of other users of the property.
Actions of other tour participants or members of the public.
Risk of Drowning.
Risk of injury or death due to natural events such as Earthquakes, Landslide, Flash Flooding, Treefall, Wildfire, Lightning, Blizzards, Volcanic Eruption, Tsunami, Cyclones and any ongoing consequences of these events.
Disclosure of Risk 4wdExp v 1.2 March 2024

Outback New Zealand Limited (t/a Nomad Safaris) Disclosure of Risk for Quad Safaris
We, Outback New Zealand Ltd, are committed to the protection of our employees, clients & property from accidental injury or damage from work carried out by, and on behalf of, the business. We, Outback New Zealand, adopt health, safety, and welfare as a fundamental business objective.
In meeting this commitment, management will comply with all legislative requirements and take all practicable steps to:
● Provide a safe place of work, safe equipment, and proper materials.
● Activities are reviewed by competent staff (internal technical advisors).
● Establish and insist that safe work methods be always practiced.
● Provide supervision and training.
● Ensure employees and clients understand and accept their responsibility to promote a safe and healthy place of work and are part of the safety management process.
● Comply with all Health and Safety Legislation.
● Prevention of serious harm.
● Continually improve.
Whilst we undertake all reasonably practicable steps to minimize, remove, or isolate risks during our tours, it still exists as it does in everyday life.
Risks you may be exposed to during your tour include, but are not limited to:

Motor vehicle accident including veering from the track, rolling or flipping the quad, collision with other vehicles, stock, stationary objects, or the land, rollovers, or vehicle fires, or mechanical failure.
Your own failure to heed safety warnings, both verbal and written.
Risk of falling or injury due to uneven, loose, or slippery terrain.
Dangers associated with the working farm, including unpredictable actions of stock or wildlife.
Actions of other users of the property.
Actions of other tour participants or members of the public.
Risk of Drowning.
Risk of injury or death due to natural events such as Earthquakes, Landslide, Flash Flooding, Treefall, Wildfire, Lightning, Blizzards, Volcanic Eruption, Tsunami, Cyclones and any ongoing consequences of these events.
Disclosure of Risk Quads v 1.2 Feb 2024