New Zealand Travel Information

New Zealand is a land of stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to lush rainforests and sparkling beaches. Whether you're an adventure seeker or a nature lover, there's something for everyone in this incredible country. From the world-famous Milford Sound to the picturesque Bay of Islands, here are just a few of the top things to do in New Zealand that you won't want to miss. Explore the volcanic landscapes of Tongariro National Park, take a tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, or ski in the beautiful alpine setting of Queenstown. Go on a Lord of the Rings tour, or visit the Waitomo Caves to witness the mesmerizing glowworms. No matter what your interests are, you're sure to find something to love in this breathtaking country.

1. Explore Milford Sound

Milford Sound is a fiord located in the southwest of New Zealand's South Island. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including towering peaks and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can take a boat tour to fully experience the fiord's beauty.

2. Visit the Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site located on the North Island. It is known for its volcanic landscape, including the active volcano Mount Tongariro and the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing hiking trail.

3. Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set

The Hobbiton Movie Set is a popular tourist destination located in the Waikato region of the North Island. It was used as a filming location for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies and offers tours of the set and a chance to see the hobbit holes.

4. Take a Ski Trip to Queenstown

Queenstown is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. It offers a variety of ski fields and is known for its beautiful alpine scenery.

5. Visit the Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is a popular tourist destination located on the North Island. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and marine life, including dolphins and whales. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the bay.

6. Visit the Waitomo Caves

The Waitomo Caves are a series of limestone caves located on the North Island. They are known for their glowworm populations and offer guided tours, including underground boat rides.

7. Visit the Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park is located on the top of the South Island. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters and the Abel Tasman Coast Track, a popular hiking trail.

8. Take a Lord of the Rings Tour

Lord of the Rings tours, offer visitors a chance to see the filming locations of the famous movie trilogy in various places all over New Zealand.

9. Visit the Cathedral Cove

Cathedral Cove is a natural archway and beach located on the Coromandel Peninsula on the North Island. It is known for its beautiful scenery and is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.

10. Visit the Sky Tower

The Sky Tower is a telecommunications and observation tower located in Auckland, the largest city of New Zealand. It offers views of the city and the surrounding area, and also features a SkyWalk, where visitors can walk around the perimeter of the tower's main observation deck.

New Zealand has a temperate maritime climate, which means that the weather can be changeable and temperatures are generally mild. The country's location in the southern hemisphere means that the seasons are opposite to those in the northern hemisphere.

Summer (December-February)

• Summer is the warmest season with temperatures averaging around 20-25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.
• It is also the most popular time to visit New Zealand as it is the best season for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and beach trips.

Autumn (March-May)

• Autumn is a great time to visit New Zealand as the weather is still mild and the countryside is filled with colorful foliage.
• Temperatures during this time of the year average around 15-20 degrees Celsius (59-68 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.

Winter (June-August)

• Winter is the coolest season with temperatures averaging around 10-15 degrees Celsius (50-59 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.
• Skiing and snowboarding are popular activities during the winter months in the South Island.

Spring (September-November)

• Spring is a great time to visit New Zealand as the weather starts to warm up and the countryside is filled with blooming flowers.
• Temperatures during this time of the year average around 15-20 degrees Celsius (59-68 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.

It's worth noting that the weather in New Zealand can be unpredictable and can change rapidly, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast and pack appropriate clothing. Additionally, the peak tourism season in New Zealand is during the Christmas and New Year holidays, so it can be more difficult to find accommodation and flights during this time.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

There are a variety of accommodation options available for visitors to New Zealand, including:

Hotels

From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, there are hotels available in most major cities and tourist destinations.

Guesthouses

These are a more budget-friendly option and can be found in many smaller towns and villages.

Motels

Motels are common in New Zealand and offer a variety of amenities such as self-contained units and kitchen facilities.

Holiday homes

Renting a holiday home or vacation rental is a popular option for visitors to New Zealand, particularly for those traveling with families or groups of friends.

Hostels

Hostels are popular in major cities and tourist destinations, and can be a good budget-friendly option for solo travelers or backpackers.

Campsites

Many national parks and other remote areas in New Zealand have camping facilities for visitors, which can be a great way to experience the natural beauty of the country.

It's important to note that depending on the location and type of accommodation, prices and availability may vary greatly. It's always a good idea to research and book in advance, especially during peak tourism season.

There are several transportation options for traveling in New Zealand, including:

Air travel

New Zealand's two main airports, Auckland and Christchurch, offer direct flights to and from various international destinations. Additionally, there are several domestic airlines that offer flights between major cities and regional areas within New Zealand.

Ground transportation

• Public transportation such as buses and trains are available in major cities like Auckland and Christchurch.
• Rental cars and campervans are popular options for road trips and exploring regional areas.
• Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber are also available in most major cities.

Water transportation

• Ferries are available for travel between islands, particularly between the North and South Island.
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• Bicycles and e-bikes are also available for rent in some cities, such as Auckland.
• Walking and hiking are also popular options for exploring natural areas and national parks.

It's important to note that transportation options and availability may vary depending on the location in New Zealand. It's a good idea to research and plan transportation in advance, especially if you're planning to visit more remote areas.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.