There are a lot of companies operating tours to Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. Why should I choose Pionair?

Pionair is wholly New Zealand owned and financially independent. Our only obligation is to you, our guest. Our locally based team are of the highest calibre, with in-depth local knowledge of Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific, providing you with an unsurpassed level of service.

How did Pionair develop its escorted tour programme?

Pionair has been a leader in private air charter services in the South Pacific region since 1991. Our focus was primarily on providing innovative group, individual and executive charter solutions to an international market of discerning travellers bound for New Zealand and Australia. We lead the industry in providing outstanding aircraft, aircrew and developed the most highly responsive custom tour development service in our region—or, judging by the levels of satisfaction expressed by our clients, quite possibly the world.

Do you have offices in the United States?

We are easily accessible to those in the Northern Hemisphere as we have our own office in Connecticut with staff boasting over 40 collective years in the travel industry. Refer to Contact Us.

When is the best time to travel ‘Down Under’?

The Pacific region has something to offer all year round.Papua New Guinea is just south of the equator, so the cooler months of May to October are the best time to visit Further south the climate of the large island continent of Australia varies widely. The northern part of the country has tropical rainforests and the south-east and south-west corners have temperate climates. Generally summer is from November to February; perfect beach weather in the southern states and the rainy season in the tropical north. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for bush walks, discovering nature and visiting wineries. The Australian winter of June to August is generally mild, apart from snow in the southern mountain regions. At the same time the northern states have balmy, warm temperatures.New Zealand’s agreeable temperate climate, with long hours of sunshine make it perfect for a year round holiday destination The north of New Zealand is subtropical and the south, temperate. The warmest months are December, January and February, and the coldest June, July and August. For more details please visit these web sites:

http://www.pngtourism.org.pg/
http://www.australia.com/
http://www.newzealand.com/travel/International/

How much will my tour cost?

Naturally this is entirely dependent on which tour you chose. All our escorted departures are priced in US dollars, as an indication, tours cost approximately USD$1,200 per person per day. Please refer to the specific brochure for the tour you would like to join.

When will I have to pay for my tour?

A non refundable deposit of USD $1,000 per person is due when you make your booking. Full payment is due ay least 90 days prior to travel (or on booking if travel is within 90 days). You may pay by US cheque, EFT (wire transfer) or a major credit card.

Do I have to pay a surcharge for paying by credit card?

No, there is no surcharge for payments made by credit card.

What travel documents do I need?

Once you have paid your deposit we send you a detailed daily itinerary, as well as travel visa, passport and health information on your destination. Most visitors to New Zealand do not require visas, however you must have at least 6 months of validity remaining on your passport, and a return or onward ticket. Australia and Papua New Guinea require every visitor to have an entry visa – these are easily attainable either on the web or in the case of Papua New Guinea by presenting your completed form upon arrival in Port Moresby. For accurate, up to date information, please visit the immigration website of the relevant country. About a month before your departure we send you our Pionair Travel Pack. In it you will find really useful information such as details of your hotels’ locations and facilities, internet access, our favourite local restaurants for your free nights and a booklet on the country’s climate, history and culture. We even provide you with a packing list!

Can you book my international air tickets for me?

No, Pionair is an inbound operator, not a travel agent. We ask that you book your own international flights yourself or through a travel agent. However, we are happy to act as a booking agent for flights within or between Pacific destinations.