Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The clothing recommended to wear depends on the experience as well as season, weather and temperature conditions on the day. Comfortable layered active wear is most suitable and hiking boots strongly recommended.

Please consider bringing a water bottle for your convenience, along with appropriate clothing layers, a hat, sunglasses, lip balm, and a small backpack. We advise against bringing valuable items, unless they can be securely carried with you throughout the tour (e.g., phone or camera). Please note that Ōmataroa Eco Tours cannot be held responsible for any damage or loss of personal belongings, except in cases where legal obligations apply.

Complimentary service is available for locations within the Whakatāne area. For areas outside this range, an additional charge applies. Please contact us to make your booking and discuss the details.

While we strive to offer exceptional experiences to all, prioritizing health, safety, and wellbeing is paramount. Some of our activities may have specific restrictions due to their nature. We kindly request that you reach out to us during the booking process to discuss any potential limitations or inquiries.

Yes. In Māori culture it is customary to provide a meal for guests. If you have specific dietary requirements, please ensure to include details upon booking.

You are more than welcome to bring your own. Our experiences include food and beverage, unfortunately there is no discount available should you choose to bring your own.

Yes. As we are an eco tour one of our toilets is a composting green loo.

We advise against bringing valuable items unless they can be securely carried with you throughout the experience, such as a phone or camera. Ōmataroa Eco Tours cannot be held responsible for any damage or loss of personal belongings, except where legally obligated to do so.

Our tours cater to a range of fitness levels and experience. While most experiences do not require specific fitness or experience, certain activities may have specific requirements or restrictions. Our knowledgeable kaiārahi (tour guide) will provide guidance and ensure your safety. If you have any concerns about suitability, please feel free to enquire with us before booking.

The difficulty of walking and hiking on our tours varies from easy to moderate. Our knowledgeable guides will provide guidance and adapt the pace to ensure everyone's comfort and enjoyment.

Our tours cover a diverse terrain including paved pathways, grass, sand, and natural uneven surfaces. To ensure your safety and comfort, we recommend wearing hiking boots or durable, comfortable footwear with excellent grip. Please note that uncovered footwear (e.g., jandals/sandals) and raised footwear (e.g., heels, platforms) are not permitted during the tour.

As with any outdoor activity there is natural wildlife. We are amongst nature and respect that the land is a habitat for others. Luckily New Zealand is relatively safe in terms of dangerous creatures and the risk of being hurt or injured is low. Our knowledgeable kaiārahi (local guide) will advise you of any high-risk areas. If you have a concern of anaphylaxis or any other health or safety issue, please let us know upon booking or prior to the experience start.

Everything is optional, and your comfort, health, safety, wellbeing and happiness is our priority. If there is something that you would like to opt out of that is absolutely fine. Unfortunately, as we plan and resource our experiences to set itineraries and budgets, we are unable to refund parts of the experience that you do not partake in.

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for cancellation details.

We constantly monitor the weather and other conditions/events that may affect experiences. In the unlikely event of postponement or cancellation we will notify you as soon as possible. Where we postpone or cancel, credit for a future date or refund (less 5% administration fees) will be offered.