FAQ - Insurance cover and ACC
Once you have made your booking we strongly advise buying travel insurance, to cover you for unexpected cancellations, or other misadventures on your travels.
Travel insurance cancellation policies will protect you from losing the deposit for your trip if you have to cancel unexpectedly.
Insurance specifically for mountaineering activities is optional. Insurance that covers you for loss of deposits is recommended.
When you book a trip we are under contract to pay your guide. If you cancel and we can’t find other work for that guide, we still have to pay the guide. This is why we recommend insurance against loss of deposits.
Any travel agent, or insurance broker (even your credit card provider) can assist with standard insurance, including insurance for cancellation.
The New Zealand Alpine Club can provide insurance coverage for their New Zealand and Australian members visiting NZ. Please check their website for details.
Accident Compensation Corporation in New Zealand
The Accident Compensation (ACC) system extends to all visitors to New Zealand. ACC covers most (if not all) costs in the event of an accident, including evacuation and/or medical treatment, and rehabilitation.
The ACC system is based on a “no-fault” principle. There is a complete bar to legal action for damages as a result of any accident.
Visit the ACC website for information about how ACC covers visitors to New Zealand
Insurance cover for mountaineering?
Most insurance policies have a total bar for mountain activities. Extra insurance cover for mountaineering/adventure activities is made at your discretion.
With New Zealand's unique ACC system, most Alpine Guides guests do not take an extension for "adventure activities" on their insurance.
Insurance providers with adventure sports cover
Here are links to some companies we have discovered. Alpine Guides does not endorse, nor is affiliated with these companies.
IHI Bupa com
Worldwide Insurance