Please read these Terms and Conditions carefully before booking a photography tour with Richard Hume Photography (“Richard Hume Photography”, “we”, “our”, or “us”).
By booking a photography tour, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions.
General
Participants must be 18 years of age or older unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are physically capable of participating in the tour you are booking.
Booking and Payment
To secure your place on a photography tour, a non-refundable deposit of 25% of the tour price is required at the time of booking, or you can pay the full amount.
The remaining balance must be paid no later than 60 days prior to the tour commencement date. Failure to pay the balance by the due date may result in cancellation of your booking and forfeiture of any monies paid.
If your booking is made within 60 days of the tour commencement date, full payment is required at the time of booking.
Payment methods will be advised during the booking process. Any fees associated with your chosen payment method are your responsibility.
Your booking is confirmed only once the required payment has been received and a booking confirmation has been issued by Richard Hume Photography.
Cancellation Policy
All cancellations must be made in writing.
The 25% deposit is non-refundable.
If cancellation is received more than 60 days before the tour commencement date, all monies paid beyond the non-refundable deposit will be refunded.
If cancellation is received within 60 days of the tour commencement date, no refund will be provided unless your place on the tour can be filled by another participant. Any refund in such circumstances shall be at the sole discretion of Richard Hume Photography.
While we strive to provide the best possible experience, there are situations beyond our control.
In the unlikely event that Richard Hume Photography needs to cancel a tour due to insufficient participant numbers, natural disaster, or any other reason beyond our control, we will offer you the choice of transferring your payment to an alternative tour date or receiving a full refund of all amounts paid.
Richard Hume Photography Tours will not be responsible for any costs associated with travel, accommodation, insurance, or other expenses incurred as a result of a cancellation.
We strongly recommend that all participants obtain comprehensive travel insurance that includes cancellation cover.
Force Majeure
Richard Hume Photography shall not be liable for delays, modifications, interruptions, or cancellation of a tour resulting from circumstances beyond our reasonable control.
Such circumstances include, but are not limited to:
- Natural disasters
- Severe weather events
- Flooding, landslides, earthquakes, or fires
- Pandemics or public health emergencies
- Government actions or restrictions
- Civil unrest
- Transport disruptions
- Failure of third-party suppliers
- Any other unforeseen circumstance preventing the safe operation of the tour
In such circumstances, Richard Hume Photography reserves the right to modify itineraries, postpone tours, or take any reasonable action necessary to ensure participant safety and the viability of the tour.
Itinerary Changes
Tour itineraries are provided as a guide only.
Photography tours operate in dynamic outdoor environments and locations may be changed at short notice due to weather conditions, road closures, safety considerations, accommodation availability, participant welfare, or photographic opportunities.
Any changes made will be undertaken with the intention of providing the best possible photographic experience and we will make every effort to provide an equivalent alternative experience.
No refunds shall be payable as a result of itinerary modifications.
Insurance
We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers personal health, medical expenses, personal belongings including photography equipment, trip cancellation, and other potential risks associated with your participation in the Photography Tour. By booking a photography tour with us, you acknowledge and understand the importance of having suitable travel insurance and accept full responsibility for obtaining and verifying your insurance coverage.
Physical Requirements and Medical Conditions
The New Zealand Photography Tour is suitable for adults who are in good health with reasonable fitness. We will be walking trails and paths of varying levels ranging from easy to moderate throughout the trip. The trails can be uneven, rocky or sometimes icy and can range from a short distance up to a few kilometres. These trails are sometimes walked in low light.
You are required to disclose any special needs, physical conditions, or medical considerations that may affect your full participation before booking is confirmed. Failure to do so may affect your ability to participate and may impact any applicable refund entitlement. You will be responsible for carrying your own photographic equipment.
To participate safely and get the most from the tour, please ensure you bring the following:
- Wet weather gear
- Sturdy footwear suitable for uneven or wet terrain
- Warm clothing (hat, gloves, jacket)
- Sufficient memory cards, batteries, and a portable charger for a full day of shooting
- Any personal medication you require
Participant Conduct
Participants are expected to behave respectfully towards fellow participants, accommodation providers, transport operators, guides, local communities, and members of the public.
Richard Hume Photography reserves the right to remove any participant from a tour whose behavior is disruptive, unsafe, abusive, unlawful, or negatively impacts the experience of others.
No refund shall be provided in these circumstances.
Limitation of Liability
We strive to provide a safe and enjoyable New Zealand Photography Tour experience, but there are inherent risks associated with travel and outdoor activities that are beyond our control. Richard Hume Photography, its affiliates and agents shall not be held liable for any loss, injury, damage, delay, or expense incurred during the photo tour.
By participating in the New Zealand Photography Tour, you acknowledge and assume all risks associated with your participation, including but not limited to risks arising from transportation, accommodations, activities, wildlife encounters, and weather conditions. These risks may include, but are not limited to, accidents, injuries, illnesses, property damage, loss of personal belongings, delays, and unforeseen circumstances.
We strongly recommend that you exercise caution, follow safety instructions provided by our guides, and adhere to local laws and regulations at all times during the tour. It is your responsibility to take necessary precautions and make informed decisions to ensure your own safety and the safety of others in the group. This includes following any safety guidelines, wearing appropriate clothing and gear, and being aware of your surroundings.
Assumption of Risk
By participating in a photography tour, you acknowledge that travel and outdoor activities involve inherent risks. You understand that despite careful planning and preparations, unforeseen events, hazards, or circumstances may arise during the tour that are beyond our control. These risks may include, but not limited to:
- Slips, trips and falls
- Exposure to adverse weather
- Road travel
- Boat travel
- Remote locations
- Wildlife encounters
- Medical emergencies
- Equipment loss or damage
You voluntarily accept these risks and assume responsibility for your participation.
Photography and Promotional Use
From time to time, photographs or video may be taken during tours for promotional purposes.
Richard Hume Photography will seek permission before using identifiable images of participants for marketing, social media, promotional materials, or website content.
Privacy
Personal information collected during the booking process will be used solely for the administration and operation of photography tours.
Your information will not be sold or disclosed to third parties except where necessary to provide tour services or where required by law.
Governing Law
These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of New Zealand. Any dispute arising from these Terms and Conditions shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of New Zealand.
Acceptance of Terms
By booking a tour with Richard Hume Photography, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms and Conditions.
If you have any questions regarding our Terms and Conditions please contact us for clarification before booking a photo tour.