New Zealand is one of the most spectacular countries in the world with glaciers, fiords, volcanoes, geysers, mountains, and adventures activities galore.
Clean and green New Zealand – home to bungee jumping, the haka, extreme sports, Kiwis, Lord of the Rings, rugby, fish ‘n’ chips, spectacular scenery, plenty of sheep, and jandals. Adrenalin junkies will be in heaven with countless extreme sports and activities on offer.
If you like your heart rate a little slower then immerse yourself in the culture – head to a museum, visit a vineyard or go whale watching. New Zealand tourism offers something for everyone.
Check out my New Zealand travel tips giving you the low-down on all the official stuff like visas, budget, how to get around plus fun stuff like attractions to see, the best time to visit and unmissable events!
New Zealand Facts
Population
4,000,000
Languages Spoken
English although New Zealand is a multi-cultural country so you’ll hear other languages spoken, including Maori, which is also an official language of New Zealand.
Currency
NZD Dollar $
Electricity
Electricity is supplied throughout New Zealand at 230/240V and the cycle is 50 Hz. Power sockets only accept flat 3 or 2-pin plugs, depending on whether an earth connection is fitted so an adapter may be necessary.
Time Zones
GMT + 12. New Zealand is one of the first places in the world to see the new day. Daylight savings means the clocks go forward one hour on the last Sunday in September and go back one hour on the first Sunday of the following April.
Country Dialling Code
+64
Weights & Measures
Metric
Weather
New Zealand is famous for its rugged landscape, alpine glaciers, amazing beaches and often spectacular geothermal and volcanic activity. This and the temperate climate, unique animal and plant life, and the close proximity of the unique New Zealand environment, different landscapes and ecosystems combine to create of the main draw cards for visitors to New Zealand.
The climate in the north of New Zealand is subtropical and the south temperate. Summer is from December to February where the average temperature ranges from 20 – 30ºC, and the winter is from June to August when the temperature drops to 10ºC or below depending on the region. For up to the minute weather information to go the World Weather website.
Keep in mind that while these temperatures are the norm, the weather in New Zealand can change unexpectedly as cold fronts or tropical cyclones quickly blow in – hence the phrase ‘four seasons in one day’. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather and temperature, especially if you’re going hiking or doing other outdoor activities.
Best Time to Go
With the summer and winter temperatures only varying about 10ºC over most of the country, New Zealand is ideal all year round.
New Zealand is most popular in summer (December to February) when there’s plenty of sunshine and you can make the most of swimming, rafting, snorkelling, diving, kayaking and other activities on offer. It’s best to book at least your first two nights accommodation during this period, to avoid disappointment.
If you’re into skiing then winter will be more your thing, and you’ll find plenty of snow on the mountains to satisfy your sport of choice. Away from the mountains, New Zealand winters are mild and temperatures generally do not fall below freezing, however they can be quite wet.
Visas
Visitor/Tourism Visa
The good news for UK passport holders is that you can enter New Zealand visa-free as a visitor for up to 6 months, which is perfect if you don’t want to work while you are there. All you will need is a passport that is valid for three months beyond the date you intend to leave the country.
Visitors from most other countries will find that they have a three month visa free visitor status. To check your country’s eligibility or to apply to stay longer as a visitor you will need to visit Immigration New Zealand.
Working Holiday Visa:
To fully appreciate the culture and beauty of New Zealand you need to immerse yourself slap bang in the middle of it. A working holiday visa in New Zealand is the best way of experiencing everything this amazing country has to offer and perfect for anyone aged between 18-35 who want to work and travel for up to 12 months.
You can also apply for this even if you’ve previously had an NZ working holiday visa. Once your application is approved, you have 12 months to arrive in New Zealand (you will usually get a response about your application within a few days of applying, asking you for more information or letting you know the decision).
Stay for up to 23 months (if you are from the UK) and work for up to 12 months. Work in a skilled or unskilled position at any location in New Zealand – unlike Australia, you won’t have to change jobs if you don’t want to.
Getting to New Zealand
New Zealand is a long way from almost everywhere, and flights here aren’t cheap. From the UK it’s a 25 hour flight depending on which route you take and how many stops you have on the way. For the best deals I recommend searching flights on Skyscanner.
Most international flights usually arrive into Auckland International Airport but there are other airports in many of the other cities as well. Finding cheap flights to New Zealand can be difficult due the distance and lack of airlines flying here, but book in advance to get the best deals.
You could buy a Round the World ticket including stops in Australia, Fiji and New Zealand so you maximise your time travelling in Oceania.
New Zealand Airports
New Zealand has a comprehensive network of international and domestic airports. While Auckland Airport serves the largest number of international arrivals and departures, airports in Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin, Hamilton, Palmerston North and Queenstown also receive flights from other countries.
Auckland Airport
Auckland airport is only about 20 minutes from the central city and a cab fare will cost $50 – $65. Cheaper modes of transport include shuttle buses (you should book these in advance), public buses or the airbus that provides frequent services costing around $15.
Wellington Airport
Wellington is the capital of New Zealand and is the next busiest airport. Taxis, shuttles and buses operate out of the airport and into the city and surrounding regions. A taxi ride into the central city will cost around the $30 mark whereas a bus will cost no more than $10 and leaves every half hour.
Christchurch Airport
Christchurch airport is about 20 minutes by taxi from the city centre and the journey will cost between $30 and $50, depending on the taxi company. Shuttles and buses also run out of the airport.
Queenstown Airport
Queenstown airport is close to the town – only about 15 minutes away by car – and a taxi ride will cost about $25. The airport is serviced by a number of taxi and shuttle companies, and there is also a bus that leaves every 20-30 minutes and costs $5.
You can hire a car from any of the main airports. Domestic airports make every part of the country accessible, from Kaitaia Airport in the far north to Ryan’s Creek Aerodrome on Stewart Island. Airport facilities vary according to the size of the local population.
Accommodation
New Zealand is built for tourism and there are options for all budgets. From really amazing luxury hotels to some of the best budget backpackers hostels in the world. Prices in Auckland are generally higher than the rest of the country. Find the best deals on hotels on Booking.com.
How to Get Around
New Zealand is one of the best backpacking destinations and it is super easy to navigate the country.
Planes, Trains and Road
New Zealand is only 1,600 km long so the transport you choose will depend on how quickly you want to get to your destination. Plane, train, bus, boat, car or caravan – you could even cycle if you’re feeling adventurous.
In most cases getting there is all part of the fun so hire a motor home to see the sights at your own pace, or jump on a train for a scenic tour through remote areas often inaccessible by road. For longer stays or if you’re backpacking then you might find that purchasing a second hand car is the best option. Check out my tips for travelling New Zealand by campervan.
Organised Tours
If you’re travelling alone, for the first time, or just fancy meeting some new and exciting people, then why not try an organised tour? I recommend browsing small group adventure tours with G Adventures or Contiki which are a lot of fun and an easy way to see the highlights of the country.
Sea Transportation
New Zealand transport options will usually include a ferry-ride or boat trip at some point. Modern ocean-going ferries that carry passengers and vehicles connect the North and South Islands, and wherever there’s an offshore island, a harbour, lake or river, there’s a good chance you’ll find a safe and convenient form of water transport network there as well.
Shweeb
Sounding more like a tiny, undiscovered animal from Borneo, the ‘Shweeb’ is potentially the future of public transport and, you guessed it, it’s in NZ. Rotorua boasts the first (and currently only) version of it in the world. Experience the future without having to get in the DeLorean, and see what transport in a capsule-like-monorail from the (near) future feels like. What do you mean I’m not selling it?
Attractions & Top Places to Visit
Check out my list of top tourist attractions in New Zealand that you shouldn’t miss.
The North Island
Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city and combines urban living with the seaside – you’re never more than half an hour away from a beach. Dubbed the ‘city of sails’ Aucklanders are big on their boats. You could take the ferry across to Waiheke Island and tour the wineries, explore one of the many volcanoes in the region, do some surfing at Piha, or check out one of the many restaurants, bars and clubs.
Northland
The sub-tropical temperatures and the extensive unspoilt coastline make Northland a great place for water activities. Head up to Tutukaka or Russell for a spot of fishing, or pay a visit to Waitangi and learn about the Treaty that shaped New Zealand. Soak up the art, creativity, organic farming and alternative thinking which defines the unique culture of Northland.
Rotorua
Don’t miss the boiling mud pools and squirting geysers which make Rotorua famous – just be prepared for the sulphur smell they give off which can be rather like a toilet on a bad day… Maori sites are in abundance in Rotorua too so get your dose of culture while you’re there, and at the end of the day have a soak in one of the hot pools (just don’t get into one that’s boiling).
Ruapehu
A must for the ski and snowboard lovers of the world, the Tongariro national park boasts three (sporadically active) volcanic cones Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. When the snow has melted the peaks are equally good for hiking. Base yourself at nearby Ohakune and experience the bars and restaurants at night and some outdoor adventure during the day.
Wellington
Nestled at the bottom of the North Island sits New Zealand’s capital, Wellington. As well as the visually stimulating surroundings characteristic of all the regions, this city is big on the arts and culture. Head to the Te Papa museum with big interactive displays to get a dose of the past, and at night stay up with the city to enjoy bars, restaurants, live music and performances. View my Wellington travel guide.
Gisborne
The smug little city of Gisborne, located on the east coast of the North Island, holds the bragging rights for being the first major city in the world to bring in the New Year. This also means of course that it’s the first major city in the world to see the sun each and every day. How much this excites you will probably depend on the size of your hang over.
Another bragging right (not as if Gisborne’s ego needs it), is that it also hosts the acclaimed Rhythm & Vines music festival, featuring many local and international acts. Previous events have featured Australian Madchester revivalists, Jagwar Ma, London drum and bass outfit, Chase & Status, plus many more. Sweet.
The South Island
Queenstown will really rock your socks off – whether you’re a ski or snowboard bunny wanting to take advantage of some of the pristine snowfields, a bungee jumping adrenaline junkie, or just a sightseer happy to soak up the amazing scenery – this place has it all. Don’t miss the Queenstown Winter Festival – 10 days of carnage known as the ‘Southern Hemisphere’s Ultimate Winter Party’.
Christchurch is taking giant leaps to become New Zealand’s most exciting city to visit. A popular stop off on any south island road trip, Christchurch is compact and a very relaxed city to spend time in.
Nelson
The sunniest region in New Zealand, head to Nelson and enjoy the great beaches and national parks, explore the vineyards, check out the art galleries and generally be adventurous! Go sea kayaking, rock climbing, white water rafting, mountain biking, sailing, horse trekking, four-wheel biking and skydiving to name just a few activities on offer.
Marlborough
Head to a Marlborough vineyard, discover the history or check out the wildlife. The nature lover will revel in the dolphins, seals, tiny blue penguins, native bellbird, tui and other birdlife, throughout the region and within bird and sealife sanctuaries.
Canterbury
Canterbury is home to the highest point in New Zealand, Mt Cook, which stands at 3,754 m, while at the other end of the scale there are deep submarine trenches off the coast of Kaikoura that are home to whales, dolphins and seals. Christchurch and Timaru are the regions cities, and you’ll find the colonial heritage well-preserved.
Southland
Visit Invercargill to admire the Victorian and Edwardian buildings which sprang up to accommodate the early British settlers, then head to Bluff and sample some of the regions famous oysters. Keen to see a kiwi in its natural habitat? Jump on the ferry to Stewart Island.
New Zealand Travel Tips
Here are some New Zealand travel tips and advice to help you fit in with the kiwis:
Rugby
The kiwis are mad about rugby so make sure you check out a game and soak up the lively atmosphere. Rugby is a big part of the culture in New Zealand!
Maori Cultural Sites
If your visit includes a stop at a marae (Maori meeting house) you’ll need to get permission to enter. It is customary to greet your hosts with a hongi – a traditional Maori welcome by touch of the noses. Visitors to marae are often welcomed with a powhiri (formal welcome) and a wero (challenge) and it’s important to be quiet and respectful while this happens. Make sure you ask permission before taking photos.
Clothing
Kiwis are known for their laidback and easy-going natures, something that carries through into their clothing – informal and relaxed on most occasions. Smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants, bars and nightclubs.In summer it’s a good idea to include a jacket or sweater in your luggage in case the weather cools, or if you’re visiting higher altitudes. It also rains from time to time so a light rainproof jacket or coat can be handy. If you’re planning on visiting between May and September, warm winter clothes are ideal and you’ll want to layer your clothing.
New Zealanders and Australians
Don’t confuse them! A bit of friendly rivalry exists between the two of them which becomes apparent during sporting matches involving the two nations…
Sunburn
The sun is much stronger than it is in Europe or North America, so make sure you stick on a hat and sun block if you’re planning to be out in the sun for more than 15-20 minutes.
The Great Kiwi Beer Festival
Visit in February and take a trip to the Great Kiwi Beer Festival. While this may be only a single-day event, there’s certainly no shortage of fun to be had, with more than 40 breweries from around the world bringing their produce to the festival each year, allowing attendees to sample over 100 different beverages.
Live music, beer and food matching workshops and cooking demonstrations are also included in the line-up, with beers being sold either by the glass (280ml) or in 100ml taster pours. The venue for this festival varies.
Money & Budget
The New Zealand currency is the dollar, and the exchange rate is approximately $2.84 = £1.
Sample Prices
Make sure you budget for your trip so you can pack in as much as possible on your New Zealand holiday. Here are a few sample prices to help you budget in New Zealand money:
• Tui beer = $4
• A fish and some hot chips = $5
• A pair of ‘jandals’ (flip flops) = $20
• Maori greenstone necklace = $50
• Bungy jump off the SkyTower in Auckland = $175-$195
• Average room prices = $30 for cheap accommodation, $70 for mid-range and $150 for something flash!
• Average meal prices = $10 for a meal in a food court, $20 for a mid-range restaurant, $30 and upward for a classy joint.
These prices are in New Zealand dollars, and are subject to change.
Tipping
There is no obligation to tip in New Zealand – even in a restaurant or bar. Tipping is at the discretion of the visitor and you could tip a dollar or two if you’re happy with the service. Hotels and restaurants don’t add a service charge to their bills.
Banking
Banks are open from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday, with some banks in the main centres open on Saturday mornings. All major credit cards can be used in New Zealand, and traveller’s cheques are accepted at hotels, banks and some stores.
Health & Safety
New Zealand health care is of a high international standard, with hospitals and medical clinics in all cities and towns. For ambulance, fire brigade or the police phone 111 from anywhere in New Zealand. Once in the country you’ll find the tap water safe to drink, so no need for the bottled stuff.
Below are a few hints and tips to ensure you have a hassle-free holiday in New Zealand:
New Zealand is one of the safest travel destinations in the world, however you should always observe the same precautions with your personal safety and belongings as you would in any other country or at home.
• If possible, go places with someone you know and trust.
• Be aware of your surroundings when walking and sightseeing.
• Late at night, stay in places that are well lit and with other people. Don’t take short cuts through parks or alleyways. Take a taxi or get a ride with someone you know.
• While still relatively safe in New Zealand, it’s recommend that you don’t hitchhike. Lock your accommodation (including campervans) and secure windows at night.
Don’t leave home without travel insurance! Accidents happen – and they can happen in the strangest places at the strangest times, like during a skiing trip in the South Island or after a night out in Auckland at 3 am. Travel insurance can cover you for all sorts of mishaps during your travel, and even before you leave.
History
Want to know more about New Zealand before arriving? Settlers first came to the islands from East Polynesia around 1300 AD. These peoples became the Maori. Able Tasman was the first European to come to the islands. He explored the area in the mid-1600s.
In the late 1700s Royal Navy of England came to New Zealand with Captain James Cook in command of the fleet. Missionaries and other settlers from Europe and North America established communities beginning in the late 1700s under British rule. Then in 1907, the country received its independence.