Editorial policy

I know that the word ‘policy’ sounds frightfully formal, but I wanted to put down in words my vision and direction for this website. This is to hold myself accountable, and also to let you, my readers, know what goes into my content.

This policy outlines the principles and standards that guide my writing. In that sense it’s less of a policy and more of a promise.

Accuracy and credibility

Planning and researching a trip is exceptionally difficult when the internet is awash with AI generated content and frankly, bad content.

I’m dedicated to delivering accurate and reliable information via this website. Each article I write is is thoroughly researched, fact-checked, and reviewed by me, Petrina Darrah.

I only write about destinations I have visited first-hand, activities I have tried myself, and places where I have eaten, slept, or otherwise enjoyed. This means I might not be the most comprehensive resource for New Zealand travel online — I’m only one person — but I aim to be the most trustworthy.

If I haven’t personally visited a place, I will only recommend it if I have heard glowing reviews through industry contacts or friends who have tried an activity for themselves.

Whenever appropriate, I use credible sources, including official government resources, reputable travel organisations, and trusted industry experts.

Unbiased Reporting

My goal is to create all content with complete editorial independence. No advertisers, sponsors, or external parties influence my editorial decisions or perspectives on travel-related topics.

Having said that, I do make money from ads placed within my content, and from affiliate links to products I know and trust. These allow me to continue writing and providing you with information — no one else pays me to do this.

Any sponsored content or advertising is clearly labeled to maintain transparency with you.

Relevance

I almost exclusively write about New Zealand on this website.

Where relevant, I do write about other topics, like backcountry camping or hiking, as these are activities I do frequently in Aotearoa.

Outside of these more general guides, I choose to write about New Zealand as this is the country I know best in the world. I grew up here, and have travelled here extensively for both work and leisure.

I do not write about topics which I don’t fully understand; a non-exhaustive list of these topics would include Maori culture, travelling in New Zealand as a person of colour, or queer travel within New Zealand.

Ethical standards

I openly acknowledge that travel can and does have detrimental effects on the world around us. By it’s very nature, travelling to New Zealand involves high carbon emissions and often visits to delicate natural environments.

I advocate for more conscious and responsible travel, and where possible I am honest about over tourism, wildlife tourism, and other harmful tourism practices.

I don’t aim to make decisions on your behalf, but to provide my readers with all the information they need to make informed, responsible decisions about travel around New Zealand.

Transparency

I am transparent about any potential conflicts of interest, affiliations, or financial relationships that may influence my content.

Corrections and updates are promptly made when errors or inaccuracies are identified, with clear acknowledgment of the changes.

Originality and AI

I choose not to use AI in my content as I don’t believe it holds any value for my readers. All content is personally written by me, Petrina Darrah. All typos and factual errors are my own. Sorry for those.

I do not accept externally written content from SEO agencies or the like for link-building purposes.

Legal and safety considerations

While I provide general travel information and tips, I do not offer legal, medical, or safety advice. I encourage you to consult relevant professionals or authorities for specific concerns.

I also advise readers to stay informed about travel advisories, safety guidelines, and entry requirements for your chosen destinations.

By adhering to this Editorial Policy, I strive to be your trusted source of travel information and inspiration. I’m dedicated to upholding the highest standards of journalistic integrity, accuracy, and transparency in every aspect of my travel writing.