Keeping You Safe
Your safety at all times is our priority and our operation, plant, facilities and equipment are all operated within the parameters of a Safe Operation Plan.
Your guides are trained in first aid and carry first aid kits with them; there are also first aid kits in our lodges, jet boats and coach. Our satellite and radio communications network means we have communication at all times within the valley, to our operations base in Te Anau and with emergency services.
Travel insurance
We strongly recommend all guests, both New Zealand citizens, residents and overseas visitors, purchase travel insurance. This should guard against loss of fares paid should you have to cancel the trip for any reason within our cancellation period. Travel insurance may cover cancellations due to reasons such as falling ill or having an accident prior to the trip, a family bereavement, missing a flight to Queenstown and therefore missing the trip departure etc.
Once your trip has commenced, ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation) will cover any accidents that occur on the track for both New Zealand citizens, residents and overseas visitors. Should any guest suffer an illness on the track such as a stroke or heart attack, St John New Zealand will cover the cost of a helicopter evacuation for all New Zealand citizens and those holding a work or permanent residency visa and long term Australian residents. All other tourists will have to pay for such an evacuation.
Safety Statement for Hollyford Valley Walks
At Hollyford Valley Walk, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our guests above all else.
Our dedicated team focuses daily on creating a secure environment, allowing you to fully embrace the stunning beauty of the Hollyford Valley.
While the area is breathtaking, its variable weather and terrain can present challenges. Therefore, maintaining safety during all our guided experiences is crucial. We take pride in our robust Safety Management Systems and continuously strive for improvement.
Our Safety Management Systems undergo regular internal and external audits conducted by industry-leading organizations, including:
Qualmark
As New Zealand's official quality assurance body for tourism, Qualmark represents businesses that have met the highest standards of operational excellence.
Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) Jet Boat Operator Certificate
(For our Jet Boat Experiences)
MNZ is New Zealand's government regulatory body responsible for ensuring the safe management of shipping and boating activities within New Zealand.
Hollyford Valley Walk Jet Boating activities are audited by MNZ in accordance with the Code of Practice for the Safety of Jet Boats operating on rivers as prescribed within Appendix 1 of Part 82 of the Maritime Rules
Staff Training
We believe that fostering a positive safety culture is essential to our operations. Our guides undergo comprehensive training programs, equipping them with the skills necessary to deliver exceptional and safe experiences.
Each guide participates in regular safety drills, holds valid first aid certifications, and carries first aid supplies during trips. Our team is also dedicated to ongoing professional development, ensuring that safety remains paramount.
Understanding the Risks
All guided experiences, including our beautiful walks, carry inherent risks. While we implement thorough safety measures, we ask our guests to recognize that risks exist. Factors such as medical conditions, physical fitness may influence your ability to participate safely.
Please disclose any relevant medical conditions to our team during check-in, and feel free to discuss any concerns you may have. The Hollyford Valley is a dynamic natural environment that presents certain hazards including, but not limited to; fast moving water ways, river hazards, rockfall, windfall, heavy rainfall, cold exposure, flooding, uneven terrain, slips, trips, fall and sun exposure. Serious injury or death is a possibility therefore agreeing to participate is your personal decision.
In Summary
At Hollyford Valley Walk, your safety is our highest priority, and we adhere to strict standards to minimize risks. Although incidents are rare, we acknowledge the nature of the activities and the remote environment we operate in, which can affect response times in an emergency. Our activities are weather-dependent, and we incorporate precautions to respect the environment while ensuring your safety.
We look forward to providing you with a memorable and secure experience.