Aegis Charters Limited, T/a Kiwa 2 Cruising

General Terms and Conditions;


Payment & Cancellation Terms:


A. Payment Policy

1. Booking Deposit:

A non-refundable deposit of $500 is required to confirm your reservation with Aegis Charters Limited. This deposit secures your chosen date and signifies your commitment to cruise with us. To ensure your preferred date, prompt payment through our online booking system is highly recommended.

2. Priority Booking:

In the event of multiple requests for the same date, priority will be given to clients who have completed their deposit payment first.

3. Deposit Commitment:

Your deposit represents a formal agreement to embark on a cruise aboard the KIWA II on your selected date and time.

4. Payment of Balance:

The remaining balance of your cruise fare is due before the day of sailing or 14 days post-invoice issuance, whichever comes first.

5. Late Payment:

Should there be a delay in your final payment, we kindly ask that you contact us to discuss alternative payment arrangements.

6. Payment Reminder:

If we do not receive communication regarding a delayed payment, we will reach out with a reminder.

7. Booking Reallocation:

We reserve the right to offer your reserved date to another party if we do not receive a timely response or arrangement proposal for late payment.

8. Date Changes:

Initial Change: One date alteration is permitted without charge, provided it is requested more than 14 days prior to the original departure date and time.

9. Additional Changes:

Any further date changes requested more than 14 days before the most recently agreed date will incur an administrative fee of $150.

10. Short-Notice Changes:

Date modifications made within 7 days of the scheduled departure date will be subject to a $500 late change fee, reaffirming your commitment to the new date. This fee may be refunded if we can secure an alternative booking for the original date and is necessary as a part of staffing agreements.

Cancellation Policy:


In the Event of Client Cancellation:

1. Deposit Retention:

The initial deposit of $500 is non-refundable and will be retained by Aegis Charters Limited to cover the preliminary reservation costs and staffing.

2. Cancellation Fees:

If cancellation occurs within 7 days of the scheduled departure, 50% of the total amount paid, including the booking fee, will be retained.

For cancellations made within 48 hours of the departure date, 100% of all payments made will be retained.

3. Refund Conditions:

Should we successfully secure a last-minute booking to replace your cancelled reservation, we will issue a refund of the total amount paid, less a $150 administrative fee and any incurred expenses such as third-party service provider fees such as catering or costs related to food wastage, where applicable.


Company Cancellation and Adverse Weather Policy:

1. Alternative Date Offer:

In the unlikely event of a cancellation by Aegis Charters Limited, we will promptly offer an alternative available date for your cruise.

2. Refund Assurance:

Should you prefer not to reschedule, we guarantee a full refund of all payments made.


Adverse Weather Conditions:

1. Continuation of Services:

Despite adverse weather, the celebration can proceed on board Kiwa II, securely docked at the marina berth. Our along-side functions offer the same exceptional experience as our cruising events.

2. Weather Decision Protocol:

Decisions regarding weather disruptions will be made on the day of the event at the venue, as weather forecasts can be unreliable. To date, no functions have been cancelled due to weather, thanks to our all-weather enclosed canopy.

3. Cancellation Authority:

Only the vessels skipper has the authority to cancel due to weather concerns.

4. Client’s Discretion:

If you opt not to proceed with the onboard event due to weather conditions, our standard client cancellation policy will apply.

5. Safety-Driven Cancellation:

If Aegis Charters Limited must cancel for safety reasons—specifically, if conditions are deemed unsafe for jetty side hosting—we will arrange an alternative date without any administrative or rebooking fees. Please note, however, that there may be potential expenses incurred by the customer, such as third-party service provider cancellation fees or catering costs, depending on the stage of food preparation.

Mechanical Failure Policy:

In the rare circumstance of a mechanical failure that hinders the Kiwa II from departing, guests are presented with the following options:


1. The Show Must Go On:

Guests may choose to continue their event on the along-side. As compensation, Aegis Charters Limited will:

Deduct $250 from the total cost to account for fuel savings.

Provide a complimentary bottle of champagne or wine for the principal charter guest.

Please note, acceptance of this option, whether verbal or written, precludes any further compensation claims once the guests have embarked.

2. Rescheduling:

Guests can reschedule their cruise to another available date, free of any additional charges.

3. Cancellation:

Guests may opt for cancellation, in which case a full refund of all payments made will be provided, less the $500 booking deposit and any incurred expenses such as third-party service provider fees such as catering or costs related to food wastage, where applicable.


Security Bond Policy (Part 1):

A. Security Bond Requirements:

A security bond is required for all bookings to ensure the maintenance of high standards and the safety of all guests and crew aboard the Kiwa II. The bond will be refunded following the cruise, provided all terms are met.

Standard Bond:

A bond of $250 is required for general bookings.

21st Birthday Parties:

A heightened bond of $750 is applicable for 21st birthday or other high-risk celebrations.

Refund Process: Upon successful completion of the cruise without incident, the bond will be returned via the original payment method within 3 business days.

B. Conditions for Bond Refund:

To qualify for a bond refund, guests must adhere to the following conditions:

  • Exhibit good behavior and comply with crew instructions.
  • Avoid causing any damage to the vessel or its contents.
  • Refrain from bringing alcohol onboard.
  • Maintain respectful conduct without abusive or inebriated behavior.
  • Ensure all actions are safe and do not pose risks to anyone’s well-being.
  • Ensure no drugs are present or consumed on the vessel.
  • Prevent the removal of alcohol from the vessel; (walking off with drinks at the end).
  • Dispose of waste properly and not in the harbor.
  • Abstain from consuming alcohol in the carpark or marina area, in accordance with local liquor laws.
  • Refrain from jumping into the water from the boat or while alongside.

Security Bond Policy (Part 2):

C. Consequences of Policy Violation:

Violation of any of the above conditions will result in the forfeiture of the security bond and immediate termination of the cruise. If necessary, the New Zealand Police will be involved upon return to port.

D. Additional Fees and Deductions:

Overseas Transactions: Guests with overseas accounts will incur a 3% fee for bond refunds.

Additional Charges: Deductions may also apply for excessive cleanup, extended use of the vessel following our conclusion of the charter, or issues related to prohibited items as specified in the agreement.


Cruising Cleanup Policy:

A. Excessive Cleanup Charges:

While standard cleaning is included in your charter, we rely on our guests to manage spillages responsibly. In the event of excessive mess:

  • Standard Cleaning: One-hour post-cruise cleaning is included in your charter fee.
  • Additional Cleaning: Excessive cleaning beyond the standard hour is billed at $100 per hour, deducted from the security bond.
  • Specialized Cleaning: Stains on upholstery requiring third-party services will incur additional charges that will be deducted from the security bond.


EFTPOS-Only Bar Policy:

1. Payment Options:

  • Aegis Charters Limited offers a cashless bar aboard Kiwa 2.
  • We only accept EFTPOS credit and debit cards including VISA and MASTERCARD.
  • We do not accept PayWave or Mobile Phone NFC.
  • This ensures the lowest practical cost to our customers.


2. Bar Tab Arrangements:

  • Pre-Event Deposits: Guests may set up a bar tab in advance through a direct bank deposit.
  • Onboard Cash Handling: Should guests wish to open a tab with cash, please note that while we can accommodate this, all cash received will be permanently and securely stored, and no cash will be returned while onboard.


3. Payment of Bar Tabs:

All bar tabs must be settled on the day of the event.


4. Refunds:

Any remaining balance will be refunded via bank deposit 3 business days following the event when the damage deposit is processed.

Prohibited and Undesirable Items Policy:

A. Prohibited Items:

For the safety of all aboard the Kiwa 2, certain items are strictly prohibited due to the potential hazards they present at sea. These include:

  • Confetti and Streamers: Including confetti balloons, bombs, and party poppers.
  • Footwear: High heels and stilettos must be removed upon boarding. Shoes with marking soles are not permitted.
  • Open Flames: Except for cake candles, items like chafing dishes and other candles are not allowed.
  • Fireworks and Firearms: Sparklers, fireworks, and firearms are strictly forbidden.
  • Smoking Devices: Shisha and hookah pipes are not permitted.
  • Spray Sunscreen: To prevent slip hazards and contamination.
  • Pets: For the safety and comfort of all guests, pets are not allowed on board.


B. Undesirable Items:

While not banned, we strongly advise against bringing items that may lead to additional cleaning or safety concerns:

  • Shedding Decor: Items like feather boas, sequin clothing, and tinsel, which can scatter and obstruct safety equipment.
  • Messy Snacks: Chocolates, chewing gum, and similar snacks that can cause stains and require extensive cleaning.
  • Electrical Cookware: Please consult with us before bringing any electrical cooking devices on board to ensure safety compliance and power requirements.


C. Compliance and Consideration:

We request all guests to comply with these guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Your understanding and cooperation are greatly appreciated.


Arrival Instructions:

A. Arrival Details:

1. Location: The Kiwa 2 is moored at Berth Z40, Z Pier, Westhaven Drive, St Mary’s Bay, Auckland. Should you or your guests be delayed, we can accommodate by holding the vessel; however, the scheduled return time will remain unchanged.

2. Parking: Parking fees can be settled at the designated machines or via the “Inugo” app.

3. Liquor Ban Compliance: We urge all guests to adhere to the total liquor ban in the carpark and marina areas. Non-compliance may result in denial of boarding.

4. Pre-Departure Setup: A 30-minute window prior to departure is allocated for you and up to three assistants to arrange catering and decorations.

5. Identification: Guests who appear to be 21 or younger are required to present a valid photo ID.

6. Boarding: The boarding process for your party will begin 10 minutes before the scheduled departure.

7. Safety Briefing: A comprehensive health and safety briefing will be provided on board before we set sail.

Alcohol Responsibility Policy:


1. Liquor Ban Compliance:

Please inform your guests that the carpark and marina areas are subject to a 24/7 liquor-ban, actively monitored by security personnel & CCTV. Consumption of alcohol or ‘preloading’ in these areas is strictly prohibited, and violators may be denied entry to the vessel, asked to leave Westhaven by security or even reported to the police.

2. Westhaven Onsite Conduct:

Getting off the vessel with On-license liquor bought onboard or displaying serious signs of intoxication will result in immediate attention from marina security and potential police involvement. Such actions jeopardize our community standing, risk fines, and could lead to the loss of our liquor license.

3. Food Requirements:

To best manage social drinking, guests are required to pre-order food such as with a catering company or bring their own (BYO). BYO food should be ready-to-eat and non-cooking types to prevent accidents or excessive mess. We recommend finger foods or items that can be easily consumed while standing.

4. Policy Enforcement:

Non-compliance with these guidelines may result in the termination of your cruise and forfeiture of all payments, including the security bond.

5. Consideration of Crew: While not obligatory, food offered to our crew by the guests is greatly appreciated, although not mandatory. The crew are unlikely to ask, however if there is surplus food available, feel comfortable in offering our crew some food.

6. Dining with Crew:

If you’d like our crew to join you for a meal, please extend your invitation in advance.

7. Cleaning Protocol:

A standard one-hour cleaning session is included post-cruise. Should there be a need for extended cleaning due to excessive spills, additional charges may be applied against the bond.

8. Intoxication Management:

Our commitment to safety means we will not serve alcohol to any guest displaying signs of intoxication. Instead, we will offer water and suggest food consumption. Water is available at no cost and accessible throughout the cruise.

9. Right to Disembark:

We reserve the right to cease alcohol service to intoxicated individuals and, if necessary, return to port to disembark them in compliance with legal obligations. Such action may lead to us staying in port to further minimize risk.

10. Behavioral Expectations:

Unruly, lude or unsafe behavior will not be tolerated. A warning will be issued, the principle charter guest will be notified, and if continued such conduct will lead to immediate return to the dock, notification of authorities, and documentation of the incident if necessary.

We trust you will support us in upholding these standards to ensure a memorable and safe experience for all aboard Kiwa II Cruising.


BBQ Hire & BYO Food Policy:


1. Eco-Friendly Practices:

As part of our commitment to the environment, we kindly ask you to bring enough biodegradable plates and utensils for your group. Please bring a disposable table cloth for our serving area.

2. BBQ Usage:

The BBQ is available by arrangement as an optional extra during the booking process, it requires us to bring additional staff, the cook and BBQ are available together for a flat rate of $250. We must insist that no guests handle or use the BBQ. With this option there is some minor guidance tips, as to the type of food and its propensity to cause excessive mess that should be adhered to in avoiding additional cost of cleaning after the trip.

3. Food Self-Service:

We encourage groups to self-manage their BYO food, including serving and disposing of waste in the provided bins. We serve food buffet style on a large table for people to serve themselves. Crew will monitor and assist managing the table once the food has been served.

Amenities Policy:


1. Doors & Windows Policy:

For everyone’s safety and to maintain accurate passenger records, only crew members are authorized to operate entry/exit ramp, or roll-up canopy windows.

2. Entertainment Amenities:

Our vessel is equipped with a state-of-the-art Bose Lifestyle 40 surround-sound stereo system, featuring dual subwoofers, quadrophonic surround sound, and multiple connectivity options including Bluetooth, phone cable, and standard AUX and RCA inputs for your listening pleasure.

3. Restroom Facilities:

We offer separate restrooms for men and women. The women’s restroom is equipped with a sanitary pod for disposal of sanitary items. Please refrain from flushing feminine hygiene products or other inorganic materials, as this can damage the waste management system. Use the provided bins to avoid a potential charter termination and a $250 fee for pump replacement.


Thank You!


Should you have any inquiries, feel free to contact Duncan Hill, the Owner and Operator.


See You Onboard Soon...

Embark on a journey where the sea meets the sky, and memories are crafted with every wave. Join us aboard Kiwa II, where the stunning cliffs and vibrant skyline are not just a scenic vista, but the continuation of your unforgettable story. We’re not just offering a cruise; we’re inviting you to join us, in your next chapter of adventures. So, come aboard and let the Auckland harbour be the canvas of your latest exploration.