Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Away Zealand different from other travel companies?

I’ve spent 20 years designing tailor-made journeys for discerning travelers who value space, authenticity, and connection.
This isn’t about pre-packaged itineraries or travel by algorithm — it’s handcrafted travel that lets you see New Zealand and beyond the way they were meant to be experienced: quietly, deeply, and with purpose.

Every itinerary is built personally by me — no outsourcing, no templates, no mass tourism. Just real places, trusted local partners, and stories that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

How does the process work?

My process is designed to be simple, personal, and stress-free — so you can focus on the excitement, not the logistics.

→ Discovery Call (Complimentary): Let’s explore your vision and family details.
→ Design Phase (Paid): Receive your crafted itinerary — your USD 250 design fee (per family group) is credited toward your trip when you decide to move forward.
→ Travel with Ease: We handle every detail so you can be fully present.

This approach ensures that your time — and mine — is invested intentionally, with care and attention from day one.

Why should I pay a design fee when other planners offer free quotes?

Because we don’t design quotes. We design journeys that work — from the first day to the last.
Your design fee buys you expertise, personal care, and the certainty that your trip is optimized for you, not for commission.
Every plan includes vetted partners, seamless logistics, and unique experiences that you won’t find online.

Think of it as commissioning an architect — your journey deserves that same level of intention.

Can I plan part of the trip myself?

Of course — this is your story.
Some travelers come with specific lodges or regions in mind; others trust me completely.
Either way, I integrate your ideas with my network of local experts to create a balanced, effortless itinerary that feels cohesive — not cobbled together.

You’ll have full transparency on what’s included, and I’ll handle the moving parts so you can simply enjoy.

What if we’ve never worked with a travel designer before?

Then you’re about to discover how easy travel planning can feel.
I guide you step by step — from the first call to the final flight home.
Once you approve your design, my team and I coordinate every booking, confirmation, and local connection.

You’ll travel knowing everything is handled — the only thing left is to be present.

What if we’re not sure New Zealand is the right destination for us?

That’s exactly what our discovery call is for! In 20 minutes, we’ll explore what kind of experiences move you most — nature, food, wine, family reconnection, or culture — and I’ll tell you honestly if Away Zealand is the right fit.

How does pricing work?

Each Away Zealand journey is custom-designed and quoted as a single, inclusive price.
Trips begin around USD 600 per person per day, with a 10-day Boutique Style journey starting from USD 6,000 per person. Up-grade to Premium Journey starting at U$D 1,200 per person per day; our 10-day Premium Journeys start at 12,000 depending on inclussions.

These price guides exclude  international flights.

We don’t itemize individual costs — this allows full flexibility in design and guarantees consistency and value across your itinerary.

Once your journey design is approved, a 30% deposit secures your trip.
Your USD 250 design fee is credited toward the total cost within one month of your first consultation if you choose to move forward.
If not, it remains a professional fee for the design and consultation process. And don’t worry — we’ll discuss your budget, comfort level, and priorities openly during our discovery call, so you always know what to expect.

Can I see itinerary ideas before moving forward?

Absolutely — we want you to feel inspired and confident about what’s possible before we begin designing your journey.

You can explore our Journal to read articles written by Maria and the team for your next New Zealand Journeys here.