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Lake Tekapo - New Zealand
Lake Tekapo
Picturesque by day and dazzling by night, Lake Tekapo is part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, making it the perfect spot for stargazing.

Lake Tekapo

Picturesque by day and dazzling by night, Lake Tekapo is part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, making it the...

Lupines in Milford Sound, New Zealand
Milford Sound
Lupines prefer full sun, at least six hours of direct sunlight on most days, to grow and bloom their best.

Milford Sound

Lupines prefer full sun, at least six hours of direct sunlight on most days, to grow and bloom their best.

Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown
Known as the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown is home to a range of adventures, including world's first and most famous bungy jumps.

Queenstown

Known as the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown is home to a range of adventures, including world's...

New Zealand flag

New Zealand Travel Information

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Key facts

Capital:

Wellington

Location:

Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, southeast of Australia

Currency:

New Zealand dollars (NZD)

Area:

268,838 sq km

Population:

4,991,442 (July 2021 est.)

Languages:

English (de facto official) 95.4%, Maori (de jure official) 4%, Samoan 2.2%, Northern Chinese 2%, Hindi 1.5%, French 1.2%, Yue 1.1%, New Zealand Sign Language (de jure official) 0.5%, other or not stated 17.2% (2018 est.)

Religion:

Christian 37.3% (Catholic 10.1%, Anglican 6.8%, Presbyterian and Congregational 5.2%, Pentecostal 1.8%, Methodist 1.6%, Church of Jesus Christ 1.2%, other 10.7%), Hindu 2.7%, Maori 1.3%, Muslim, 1.3%, Buddhist 1.1%, other religion 1.6% (includes Judaism, Spiritualism and New Age religions, Baha'i, Asian religions other than Buddhism), no religion 48.6%, objected to answering 6.7% (2018 est.)

TimeZone:

UTC+12

Tel Code:

+64

Things to Do

  • 1. Bungee Jumping at Kawarau Bridge

    Experience the thrill of bungee jumping from the historic Kawarau Bridge, the birthplace of commercial bungee jumping. Plunge into the stunning Kawarau Gorge and feel the adrenaline rush.

  • 2. Hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

    Embark on an epic day hike across the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, known for its awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes. Discover emerald lakes, ancient lava flows, and breathtaking views.

  • 3. Cruising Milford Sound

    Take a scenic cruise through the breathtaking Milford Sound, a fjord in Fiordland National Park. Marvel at towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.

  • 4. Skydiving in Queenstown

    Experience the ultimate thrill of skydiving in Queenstown, considered the adventure capital of New Zealand. Soar through the skies and enjoy panoramic views of the stunning landscape.

  • 5. Exploring the Waitomo Glowworm Caves

    Discover the enchanting glowworm caves in Waitomo, where thousands of tiny bioluminescent glowworms create a magical display. Take a boat ride through the illuminated cave system.

  • 6. Skiing in Mount Hutt

    Hit the slopes of Mount Hutt, one of New Zealand's premier ski destinations. Enjoy a thrilling day of skiing or snowboarding amidst stunning alpine scenery.

  • 7. Maori Cultural Experience in Rotorua

    Immerse yourself in Maori culture in Rotorua, known for its geothermal wonders. Participate in traditional Maori ceremonies, enjoy a hangi feast, and learn about indigenous arts and crafts.

  • 8. Wine Tasting in Marlborough

    Indulge in a wine tasting tour in Marlborough, New Zealand's famous wine region. Sample a variety of award-winning wines and explore picturesque vineyards.

  • 9. Cycling the Otago Central Rail Trail

    Experience the beauty of New Zealand's countryside by cycling along the Otago Central Rail Trail. Discover historic gold-mining towns, scenic landscapes, and charming country pubs.

  • 10. Beach Hopping in Coromandel

    Explore the stunning beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula, famous for their golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and coastal walks.

Weather

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.

Visas

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.

COVID Status

I am vaccinated 
New Zealand Open
Test
Not required
Quarantine
Not required

Check Visa Requirements

      Accommodation

      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.

      Transportation

      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.
      • ### Other
      • 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

      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.

      Insurance

      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.

      Mobile

      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.

      Community

      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.