HIBS – Q&A
Recent Tours:
We successfully toured India six times since September 2022 post-COVID. The experience was secure, safe, and conditions were optimal for cricket.
We also have just completed a two team (under 15s and the 19s) 60 member trip in Sept/Oct 2024 and have an upcoming under 15s tour in Dec 2024.
Proposed Travel Dates for HIBS Tour :
Scheduled from Thursday the 18th September 2025 to Thursday the 1st October 2025, during the term 3 school holidays. However, depending on group ticket availability and the school’s decision of dates, there might be a variation of 2-3 days.
Cost:
The tour fee is NZD $6,000.00 per individual, regardless of whether they are a participating player or a supporter accompanying a young player throughout the journey. This means parents, guardians, or any other attendee traveling with a young cricketer will incur the same cost as the players themselves.
What’s Included in the Cost?
Round-trip airfare to India.
Accommodation throughout the tour.
All meals in India (excludes meals during transit or at airports).
All internal transportation within India.
Clothing: Shorts, Vests, Casual T-Shirt, Cricket Whites, Cap, Coloured Kit, Sun Hat, and Cap.
What’s Excluded from the Cost?
Personal shopping.
Alcohol (Under-18s are expected to abstain).
Travel insurance (though we’re considering group insurance covering COVID-related disruptions and overseas medical costs related to COVID). Note: Travel insurance is mandatory for all travelers.
Visa fees: Typically, $90 for NZ passport holders, payable to the Indian High Commission. However, fees vary based on nationality.
Medical expenses (if any).
Vaccinations.
Game Schedule:
4 to 6 Twenty20 matches.
5 One-Day matches.
Selection Criteria:
This is an exclusive Hutt International Boys school trip hence consists of only HIBS students. This is an invitation only select First XI, selected exclusively through invitation extended by the HIBS Cricket committe.
Refunds & COVID-related Changes:
Tickets will be issued 45 days prior to travel.
We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, leading to cancellations. Refunds are available but follow a structured policy, outlined below:
Cancellation Period Refund Available
On or before March 18th, 2025 – Full Refund
March 19th 2025 to 17th June 2025 Non refundable – $650
June 18th, 2025 to August 4th 2025 Non refundable – $650 + 20% of the ticket cost
August 4th 2025 to 18th September 2025 * Full Ticket cost (Likely $2600) + $650
* Travel Insurance Recommendation
Refunds will depend on the airline’s policies. We strongly advise all travelers to obtain travel insurance on or after 19th March 2025. This provides financial protection in case of cancellations due to medical or unforeseen circumstances, allowing you to claim any non-recoverable costs charged by Hutt Hawks and the airlines.
Full refunds, excluding ticket deposits, are available if the tour gets cancelled.
If the group proceeds but an individual or their family has to withdraw due to COVID or date changes, insurance will cover costs.
Opponents:
We’ll compete against state age group representative teams, as well as school and club teams.
Flight Details:
Duration: 18-24 hours.
Carrier: We’ll choose airlines based on price, flexibility, and availability.
Feedback from Previous Participants:
After confirming your place with Hutt Hawks, we can connect you to past participants for firsthand experiences.
Eligibility:
Players studying at HIBS and picked by HIBS coaches. Likely 1st and 2nd XI players.
Weather:
Sept/Oct sees temperatures consistently around 25 to 30 degrees Celsius.
Cricket Grounds:
We’ll play on domestic standard grounds equipped with all necessary amenities and also under lights.
Half or majority of the games will be played under lights.
Confirmation & Payments:
Prior to the 15th Dec, a copy of your passport, and the initial payment for the trip will be required. For payment details, refer to the payment schedule section.
Luggage:
We prioritize airlines that offer a 30-kilo allowance. Additionally, 7 kilos are allowed as hand luggage. Quantas has 30 kilos allowance as check in and 7 kgs as hand carry
For Minors:
Those under 18 without an accompanying parent/guardian will need a signed international traveler consent form from their parents.
Visa Application:
Instructions will be provided by Hutt Hawks in due course.
Safety Guidelines:
Our team includes designated safety caretakers. Please consult the attached safety checklist.
Indian Culture & Etiquette:
Please refer to the ‘India Etiquette.pdf’ document attached.
Conduct:
While Hutt Hawks promotes camaraderie and fun, there are guidelines. Check the ‘Manners and Etiquette for Hutt Hawks’ document.
Accommodation in India:
We prioritize clean and comfortable accommodations, booking star-rated hotels. In Hyderabad, five star accommodations is wihin the vicinity of the cricket ground.
Places of visit
Hyderabad
Anantapur, RDT
Coaching:
Paul Brennan will coach the side with assistance from Ravi Krishnamurthy and other local coaches.
Flight Details:
Duration: 18-24 hours.
Carrier: We’ll choose airlines based on price, flexibility, and availability.
Opponents:
We’ll compete against state age group representative teams, as well as school and club teams.