I actually have a few questions, so here I go.

I'm doing the Grand Adventurer that starts August 2. I've never had to pack for a two-week vacation before, and I'm worried about running out of room for clothing in my suitcase (since I have one smaller than the limitation). My main question for that backstory is this: Is there ever a chance to wash our clothes in a laundromat or the like? Also, how many people bring the largest luggage they're allowed, or do they find they don't need to bring too much anyway?

Okay, so that's question one. Haha.

When I bought my laptop a few months ago, I went for the small, light, portable with traveling in mind. It has been no question in my mind that I was going to take it with me... until now. Would that be a terrible idea to bring my laptop? I want it for picture- and video-storage, as well as a journal-keeping. I can't imagine not bringing it, unless it's not a smart move.

In the same vein, I've heard that we don't need to bring any kind of outlet converter for our appliances. Is this true?

And lastly... my friend's mom worked for Air New Zealand in the 70s, so she lent me all these outdated books about NZ. In one of the books it talks about tipping, saying that Kiwis don't want (or don't expect, rather) a tip for a service they do. Is this still true? Until I know for sure, I feel like I might insult them either way.

Thanks for your time, for sitting through all these questions!

hi there. pac small but pack essentials jumpers and jeans and plenty of underwear. i packed big and found that burying through my bag the morning before jumping on the bus was long and tedious, especially to find clean underwear. yes there are places to do laundy but they are few and far between.

Laptop interesting idea, i didnt take any mod cons, but after reading you taking a laptop it sounds like a good idea. i packed a journal but got 3 days into writing then realised i didnt do anymore. as for the outlet converter im not sure, i know in australia you dont have to take one because we have extremely similar power outlets.

dont tip in nz, big no no. your contiki manager im sure will tell you not to do it. but from memory its considered bad culture especially to the maori people. aussies and kiwis are very similiar, we dont take tips.
you will have a great time. but watch out for queenstown, its the party capital of the southern hemisphere. (the ice bar is a killer, yummy half priced vodka slushies.

enjoy your trip. photos tell a thousand words but noone whos ever been to nz understands. the scenery is out of this world.
oh final big note, always made sure your camera is charged because if its flat you miss out on photos and memories.

cheers (kaz from aus who adores nz)

Hey

Kaz has covered off most of your questions.

Laptop...take if you want but very few people do. NZ is pretty safe but it might just be a hassle.

Adaptor....coming from US you will need one. Any tavel store will have the adaptor.

Tipping...NZ and Australia isn't North America so don't need to worry about it. Smile and be polite and appreciative and you usually get good service.

Queenstown rocks - so much to do and see...not enought time. The scenery, particulary on the South Island is stunning.

Have a blast I'm very jealous and want to go back real soon