TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Booking and Safety Information
Surfari Trips | Terms and Conditions
Last Updated On 29-Dec-2025
These Surfari Trips Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) set out the agreement between Water Nomads New Zealand (“Water Nomads”, “we”, “us”) and you (“Participant”, “you”) for participation in any Water Nomads Surfari Trip.
By completing a Booking Form and paying an invoice, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms.
Nothing in these Terms limits any rights you may have under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 or the Fair Trading Act 1986.
Important Participation Notice
Surfari Trips involve wind and water sports and may take place in remote or environmentally exposed locations.
By booking a Surfari Trip, you acknowledge that:
- Surfari Trips involve inherent and increased risks
- Weather and environmental conditions may change rapidly
- You are responsible for assessing your own suitability to participate
Participation requires an appropriate level of physical fitness, skill, and self-awareness.
To reserve a place on a Surfari Trip, you must:
- Complete the Booking Form
- Pay the required non-refundable deposit per person
Your booking is confirmed only once the deposit has been received.
Deposits reflect administrative costs and initial commitments made by Water Nomads and are non-refundable except where required by law.
- All prices are per person, current at the time of publication, and subject to minimum group numbers
- Trip inclusions and exclusions are outlined in the relevant Surfari Trip notes
If minimum numbers are not met by the balance due date, Water Nomads may:
- Offer a small-group surcharge; or
- Cancel the trip and provide a full refund of monies paid
Prices are not retrospectively adjusted if discounts are advertised after you have paid a deposit.
Water Nomads reserves the right to amend trip prices where unforeseen circumstances significantly increase costs (e.g. currency fluctuations, supplier price increases, government charges).
If any increase exceeds 10% of the original trip price, you may accept the increase or cancel and receive a full refund.
3.1 Payment Schedule:
- Bookings more than 6 months before departure:
– Deposit payable on booking
– Balance deposit due 6 months prior to departure - Bookings within 6 months of departure:
– Full deposit payable on booking - Bookings within 45 days of departure:
– 100% of trip price payable immediately
The final trip balance is due 45 days prior to departure.
Failure to pay by this date may result in cancellation under Clause 5.
3.2 Payment Methods
Payments may be made via:
- Bank transfer
- Visa or Mastercard via Stripe (3.5% fee applies)
- International bank transfer (fees payable by you)
All prices are in NZD and include applicable taxes.
4.1 Amendments
All amendments must be requested in writing.
Each amendment incurs a $100 administration fee, plus any additional operational or supplier costs.
4.2 Transfers Between Trips
Transfers may be made to another Surfari Trip commencing within 12 months of your original departure date, subject to:
- More than 180 days prior: $100 transfer fee plus any cost increases
- 180–45 days prior: Forfeit 30% of original trip price
- Less than 45 days prior: Forfeit 100% of trip price
Forfeited amounts reflect administrative and operational costs incurred.
5.1 Cancellations by You
Cancellations must be made in writing and take effect from the date received.
Due to the small-group nature of Surfari Trips, cancellation charges apply strictly:
- More than 180 days prior: Deposit forfeited
- 180–45 days prior: 30% of trip price forfeited
- Less than 45 days prior: 100% of trip price forfeited
Surfari Trips are sold as packages. No partial refunds apply for unused services.
Gift vouchers are non-refundable.
5.2 Changes or Cancellations by Water Nomads
Water Nomads may modify, postpone, or cancel a trip where necessary for safety or operational reasons, including but not limited to:
- Hazardous weather or environmental conditions
- Political, civil, or security risks
- Acts or omissions of third parties
- Any circumstance reasonably impacting participant safety
Where possible, an alternative or future credit may be offered.
You acknowledge that refunds may not be available for indirect or third-party costs (e.g. flights), except where required by law or due to Water Nomads’ negligence.
5.3 Minimum Numbers
If minimum numbers are not met, Water Nomads may apply a surcharge or cancel the trip.
If cancelled, you will receive a full refund of trip fees paid, with no further liability for associated costs.
6.1 Fitness and Capability
You confirm that you are medically and physically fit to participate.
Surfari Trips may involve cold water, variable terrain, and rapidly changing conditions.
You are responsible for bringing suitable equipment, clothing, and protection.
6.2 Medical Disclosure
You warrant that:
- You are in good physical and mental health at booking
- You have disclosed all relevant medical conditions
- You will notify Water Nomads of any material changes
Failure to disclose may affect your ability to participate safely and may invalidate insurance coverage.
6.3 Trip Leader Authority
Water Nomads Trip Leaders have full authority to:
- Exclude a participant prior to departure (with refund or alternative offered)
- Remove a participant during a trip for safety, behavioural, or health reasons
Removal during a trip does not entitle you to a refund.
Any issues during your trip should be raised immediately with a Water Nomads representative so they may be addressed promptly.
8.1 Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory and should cover:
- Trip cancellation or interruption
- Medical emergencies and illness
- Emergency evacuation
- Personal equipment and belongings
ACC covers accidental injury in New Zealand but does not cover illness or travel disruption.
8.2 Travel Documentation
You are responsible for ensuring valid passports, visas, and travel documentation.
No refunds apply for denied entry or travel disruption due to documentation issues.
9.1 Itineraries
Itineraries are indicative and may change for safety or operational reasons.
9.2 Transport Providers
Transport providers operate under their own conditions and liability regimes.
Changes by airlines do not constitute cancellation by Water Nomads.
9.3 Photography and Media
Water Nomads may capture photo or video during trips for promotional use.
You may opt out by notifying Water Nomads in writing prior to departure.
Minors may only participate if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who:
- Is a paying participant
- Signs all required waivers
- Accepts full responsibility for supervision and conduct
11.1 Assumption of Risk
You acknowledge the inherent risks of adventure travel and voluntarily accept them.
11.2 Limitation of Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by law, Water Nomads is not liable for injury, loss, or damage unless caused by negligence or breach of statutory obligations.
11.3 Force Majeure
Water Nomads is not liable for failure to perform due to events beyond reasonable control, including natural disasters, pandemics, or government restrictions.
11.4 Governing Law
These Terms are governed by the laws of New Zealand, with exclusive jurisdiction in New Zealand courts.
Rental Agreement | Terms of Use
Last Updated On 29-Dec-2025
This Rental Agreement and Terms of Use (“Rental Terms”) set out the agreement between Water Nomads New Zealand (“Water Nomads”, “we”, “us”) and you (“Renter”, “Client”, “you”) for the rental of watersports equipment. Session Intel advisory services are governed by separate Session Intel Terms of Service.
By paying the deposit listed on your invoice, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Rental Terms.
Nothing in these Rental Terms is intended to limit any rights you may have under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 or the Fair Trading Act 1986.
Important Participation Notice
Due to Water Nomads’ operating model:
- No beach, on-water, or in-person supervision or support is provided
- All rentals and services are self-directed and self-managed
To rent equipment or use Session Intel, you must be intermediate level or above and capable of:
- Correctly assembling and safely using all rented equipment
- Operating in a fully self-sufficient manner, including self-rescue
- Returning to your launch point unassisted
- Interpreting marine and weather forecasts and managing rapidly changing conditions
If you do not meet this proficiency level, we strongly recommend contacting a local school for instruction before renting equipment or relying on advisory services.
A list of New Zealand Wing Foil Schools is available at: Learn to Wingfoil | Your Guide to Schools in New Zealand
1.1 Booking:
Bookings are made by completing the Water Nomads enquiry form. Once equipment or service type, dates, and pick-up/drop-off details are agreed, an invoice will be issued.
A booking is confirmed only once the required deposit has been paid.
1.2 Payment:
Deposit
- A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to secure all bookings
Balance
- The remaining balance is due 7 days prior to the rental or service start date
- If the balance is not paid by this date, Water Nomads reserves the right to treat the booking as cancelled
Late Bookings
- Bookings made within 30 days of the rental or service start date require full payment at time of booking
Payment Methods
- Bank transfer
- Visa or Mastercard via Stripe (3.5% Stripe fee applies)
- International bank transfer (all transfer fees are your responsibility)
All prices are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD) and include applicable taxes.
1.3 Cancellations:
Due to the nature of our business, we operate a strict, non-negotiable cancellation policy.
- Cancellations more than 7 days prior to hire/service date:
– Deposit forfeited (no refund) - Cancellations within 7 days of hire/service date:
– Full rental/service fee forfeited (no refund)
Cancellation of equipment rental does not automatically cancel Session Intel services, which are governed by the Session Intel Terms of Service.
Once equipment has been collected or a Session Intel service has commenced, no refunds are available for early returns or unused services
Gift vouchers are non-refundable.
Water Nomads reserves the right to terminate the rental agreement immediately in the event of a serious breach of these Terms. In such cases, Water Nomads may recover the equipment without liability to you.
2.1 Personal Insurance:
We strongly recommend that you hold comprehensive personal insurance covering:
- Accident and injury
- Illness
- Third-party liability
While ACC covers accidental injury in New Zealand, it does not cover illness, property damage, or personal liability.
Except where liability cannot be excluded by law, Water Nomads is not responsible for injury, loss, or damage suffered by you or any third party during the rental or service period.
2.2 Equipment Damage Insurance:
Optional equipment damage insurance is available at $10–$25 per day (depending on package).
- Excess: $150 per claim
- Insurance does not cover:
- Theft or loss
- Negligent or careless use
- Running aground or striking submerged objects
- Damage to third-party equipment
- Poor ground handling
- Damage to fins, foils, masts, fuselages, or wings
Normal wear and tear is accepted at Water Nomads’ discretion.
2.3 Your Liability Without Equipment Insurance:
If you choose not to purchase equipment damage insurance, you are fully responsible for all repair or replacement costs, up to full retail value.
By accepting these Terms, you authorise Water Nomads to charge the credit card on file for damage, loss, or theft (excluding normal wear and tear and insured damage).
This clause applies only to rented equipment and does not apply to advisory-only services such as Session Intel.
2.4 Safety, Compliance, and Conduct:
You acknowledge that you participate entirely at your own risk.
To the fullest extent permitted by New Zealand law, Water Nomads will not be liable for injury, damage, or loss arising from your use of equipment or services, unless caused by Water Nomads’ negligence or reckless conduct.
You agree to comply with:
- All applicable New Zealand laws
- Maritime Rules
- Regional and local bylaws
Safety Notes
- Rentals do not include life jackets or buoyancy aids
- Wearing appropriate flotation is strongly recommended
- You must not use equipment or rely on advisory services while intoxicated
- You confirm you are medically and physically fit to participate
- You will not ride in conditions beyond your skill level
2.5 Waiver, Release, Assumption of Risk:
By renting equipment or using services, you voluntarily assume all inherent risks associated with wind and water sports.
To the fullest extent permitted by New Zealand law, you release and hold harmless Water Nomads, its employees, agents, and contractors from claims for injury, illness, death, or property damage, except where liability cannot legally be excluded, including negligence or breaches of the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993.
2.6 Session Intel Service – Advisory Service Terms:
Session Intel is a virtual advisory-only service providing general information on weather, wind, tides, and known spot characteristics.
It does not include:
- Instruction
- Coaching
- Guiding
- Supervision
- Real-time monitoring
- On-water support
- Rescue or emergency response
All advice is indicative only. Conditions may change rapidly and unpredictably. The Client remains solely responsible for assessing conditions and deciding whether to enter the water.
Session Intel is intended for intermediate to advanced, self-sufficient riders.
For full details, refer to the Session Intel Terms of Service, which apply in addition to these Rental Terms.
3.1 Use of Equipment:
You agree to:
- Take reasonable care of all equipment
- Secure equipment when unattended
- Use supplied leashes at all times (mandatory)
- Not lend, sell, or sub-rent equipment
- Not remove equipment from New Zealand without written approval
Equipment is supplied as-is and must be checked prior to use.
3.2 Pick-up and Returns:
Water Nomads does not operate from a fixed retail location.
All pick-ups and returns are by appointment only, at agreed times and locations.
Late returns may be charged as an additional rental day.
Equipment must be returned clean and in reasonable condition, allowing for normal wear and tear.
3.3 Lost or Damaged Items:
Lost or stolen equipment will be charged at replacement value.
All damage must be reported immediately. You must take reasonable steps to prevent further damage and follow Water Nomads’ instructions.
Replacement equipment may be provided where possible, subject to availability.
Equipment may only be rented by persons 18 years or older.
Minors may only use equipment where:
- A parent or legal guardian has signed this agreement
- The guardian assumes full responsibility and supervision
These Rental Terms are governed by the laws of New Zealand.
Any disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the New Zealand courts.
Session Intel | Terms of Service
Last Updated On 29-Dec-2025
These Session Intel Terms of Service (“Terms”) outline the agreement between Water Nomads New Zealand (“Water Nomads”, “we”, “us”, or “our”) and you (“Client”, “you”) for the provision of the Session Intel advisory service.
By purchasing, requesting, or using Session Intel, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms.
Nothing in these Terms is intended to limit any rights you may have under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 or the Fair Trading Act 1986.
Session Intel is a virtual, advisory-only service providing general information relating to:
- Weather patterns and forecasts
- Wind direction and strength
- Tides and swell context
- Known spot characteristics and common local considerations
Session Intel is designed for intermediate to advanced wingfoilers and windsurfers travelling or operating in unfamiliar regions.
Session Intel does not include:
- Instruction or lessons
- Coaching or skill development
- Guiding or supervision
- Real-time monitoring
- On-water support
- Rescue or emergency response services
All information provided through Session Intel is indicative only.
Weather, wind, sea state, tides, and local conditions can change rapidly and unpredictably. Forecasts and discussions may not reflect actual conditions encountered on arrival or during a session.
Water Nomads makes no guarantee that:
- Forecast conditions will occur
- Suggested windows will align as expected
- Following advisory information will result in suitable, safe, or successful riding conditions
The final decision to enter the water always rests entirely with you.
You acknowledge and agree that you are solely responsible for:
- Assessing actual conditions at the location
- Determining whether conditions are appropriate for your skill level, equipment, and experience
- Selecting suitable launch and exit points
- Deciding whether or not to enter the water
- Managing your own safety, risk exposure, and emergency planning
Session Intel does not replace your own judgment, experience, or responsibility.
Session Intel is intended for clients who are:
- Intermediate to advanced riders
- Fully self-sufficient on the water
- Capable of self-rescue
- Competent in interpreting weather and marine forecasts
Water Nomads does not assess or verify your skill level. Any advice is provided based on the information you supply.
Session Intel advice is based on details provided by you, including (but not limited to):
- Your stated experience and skill level
- Equipment being used
- Intended locations and timing
Water Nomads accepts no responsibility for advice that may be unsuitable due to inaccurate, incomplete, or misleading information provided by you.
While Water Nomads may reference commonly known local hazards, not all risks can be identified remotely.
This includes, but is not limited to:
- Unmarked reefs or submerged obstacles
- Rips, currents, and changing seabeds
- Other water users or marine traffic
- Rapidly evolving or localised weather systems
Advice applies only to the locations and timeframes discussed. Conditions may vary significantly at nearby locations or outside the advised window.
Session Intel does not include emergency response, rescue services, or on-water assistance.
You are responsible for:
- Carrying appropriate safety and communication equipment
- Having an emergency plan
- Contacting emergency services directly if required
In New Zealand, emergencies should be directed to:
- 111 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
- Coastguard for marine emergencies
Water Nomads may offer coordination assistance if contacted but cannot replace emergency services.
Session Intel is provided on a request basis and is subject to availability.
Submitting a request form does not guarantee acceptance. Water Nomads reserves the right to:
- Decline a request
- Request clarification or additional information
- Propose modified dates, regions, or scope before confirmation
A booking is only confirmed once:
- The request has been reviewed and accepted by Water Nomads, and
- Payment has been received (where applicable)
All prices are stated in New Zealand Dollars (NZD) unless otherwise specified.
Payment terms:
- Session Intel services must be paid in full in advance unless otherwise agreed in writing
- Session Intel services are not subject to deposit-based bookings.
- Payment instructions will be provided upon confirmation of scope and dates
- No advisory information will be delivered until payment is received
Water Nomads reserves the right to adjust pricing prior to booking confirmation. Any changes will not affect confirmed and paid bookings.
Session Intel is delivered digitally via the agreed communication method (e.g. email, WhatsApp, or Messenger).
Delivery timing:
- Advisory content is typically delivered within 12-24 hours prior to the agreed advisory date, unless otherwise specified
- Multi-day or regional packages may be delivered in stages or as rolling updates
Delivery timing may vary due to:
- Weather volatility
- Data availability
- Clarification required from the client
Timeframes are indicative and not guaranteed.
Because Session Intel is a custom advisory service, the following terms apply:
- Once Session Intel has been delivered (in whole or in part), no refunds will be issued
- If a booking is cancelled by the client before delivery, Water Nomads may, at its discretion:
- Offer a partial refund, or
- Offer a credit toward a future Session Intel request
No refunds will be provided for:
- Unfavourable weather outcomes
- Forecast changes
- Client decisions not to ride
- Changes in travel plans or availability
Water Nomads may cancel or reschedule delivery due to exceptional circumstances. In such cases, a refund or credit will be offered.
By using Session Intel, you acknowledge and accept the inherent risks associated with wind and water sports.
To the fullest extent permitted by New Zealand law, you release and hold harmless Water Nomads, its employees, agents, and contractors from claims for injury, illness, death, or property damage, except where liability cannot legally be excluded, including negligence or breaches of the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993.
Session Intel is a stand-alone advisory service.
If you also engage in equipment rentals or Surfari Trips, separate terms and waivers apply to those services.
These Terms are governed by the laws of New Zealand. Any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the New Zealand courts.