Rings Part 1 | Tours & H&S

Core Training for All Tours
- General guidelines for tour preparation and interaction with guests.
- Key elements for time management and health & safety practices.
Health & Safety
- Overview of safety practices applicable across all tours.
- Site-specific safety protocols.
- Reference to the comprehensive hazard register for detailed information.
FIT Half-Day Tour Instructions
- Pre-tour checklist and preparation.
- On-tour itinerary, including specific timings and guest interactions.
Cruise Ship Half-Day Tour Instructions
- Pre-tour coordination for port-specific tours.
- Tour flow and important reminders for cruise passengers.
Full-Day Tour Instructions
- Detailed guidance for pre-tour, on-tour, and lunch arrangements.
- Key stops, time allocations, and guest engagement tips.

Preparation Checklist:
1. Review the daily run sheet in the tour app (REZDY).
2. Gather essential props: photobooks, replica swords, maps, or costumes.
3. Confirm pick-ups and Wētā tour start/finish times.
4. Check traffic and weather conditions; plan early departures if necessary.
5. Ensure the vehicle is clean, fueled, and stocked with essentials (water, maps, first aid, umbrellas).
6. Wear appropriate attire (Hi-Viz vests for port tours, weather-appropriate clothing).
7. Test the microphone and sound system.
Interacting with Guests:
- Warmly welcome the group: “Welcome to Middle-earth! We’re thrilled to have you on this adventure.”
- Outline the itinerary and encourage questions.
- Adapt your tone and pace to the group’s energy.
Time Management:
- Monitor time at each location, adhering to the itinerary.
- Use visual cues like a timer or clock to ensure prompt departures.
Health & Safety:
- Ensure clients wear seatbelts and have appropriate footwear and weather protection.
- Highlight specific hazards, such as uneven terrain, steep tracks, or mountain bike risks.
- Perform headcounts before leaving each location.

Why it’s important: A safe tour ensures a positive experience for both guests and guides.
Core Safety Procedures:
- Check guests’ understanding of English and fitness levels; offer alternatives for challenging parts.
- Warn of site-specific hazards like loose gravel, steep inclines, or slippery surfaces.
- Advise guests on seatbelt laws and bag security.

Mt Victoria:
- Highlight risks such as steep trails, falling branches, and shared paths with cyclists.
- Emphasize staying on marked tracks.
Rivendell:
- Caution against slippery trails and uneven ground.
- Encourage environmental preservation by staying on paths.
Hazard Register:
- All hazards are captured in their entirety within the comprehensive hazard register for reference and compliance.

Pre-Tour:
- Depart the office by 8:00am/1:00pm; arrive at pick-up points on time (e.g., Wellington iSite, YHA, or Mt Victoria Lookout).
- Prepare for variable traffic; aim to reach Wētā Cave 10 minutes early.
On Tour:
- Welcome guests, outline the itinerary, and conduct a Health & Safety briefing.
- Adjust the sequence (Mt Victoria or Wētā Cave first) based on Wētā bookings.
- Allow 45 minutes at Mt Victoria and 90 minutes at Wētā Cave.

Pre-Tour:
- Arrive at the port by 7:15am; ensure compliance with port rules (speed limits, Hi-Viz vests).
- Coordinate with fellow guides for multi-bus groups.
On Tour:
- Drive straight to Wētā Workshop; highlight Miramar locations en route.
- Ensure cruise passengers are aware of mobility challenges at Mt Victoria.
- Return passengers to the port on time for their ship’s schedule.

Pre-Tour:
- Depart the office at 7:45am; prepare lunch menus for guest pre-selection.
On Tour:
- Visit Hutt River (Anduin), Harcourt Park (Isengard), and Kaitoke Regional Park (Rivendell).
- Allow 45 minutes for lunch at Aston Norwood Gardens.
- Conclude with Wētā Cave and Mt Victoria stops.

Complete Guide