New Zealand Travel Guide

In depth guides on destinations in New Zealand
plus honest reviews of attractions, accommodation, and restaurants.

turquoise coloured rapids with a bridge over

New Zealand consists of two main islands (North Island and South Island plus about 600 smaller islands.

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city whilst Wellington is the capital, both on the North Island.

Weather and Best Time to Visit New Zealand

January & February are the warmest months whilst July is the coldest. The temperature and weather can vary quite a bit. Whilst the far north has subtropical weather during summer, the alpine regions of the South Island can drop down to -10°C (14°F) in winter.

Summer is the most popular time for visitors as well as New Zealanders making the most of the school holidays and warm weather. It can be crowded in some places and accommodation is at its most expensive.

Autumn (March to May) can be a nice time to visit as the temperatures are usually still quite warm but it’s quieter.

If you want to ski, July & August are your best bet.

Do I need a visa to enter New Zealand?

Some Passport holders from certain countries are exempt from having to apply for a visa but must hold an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority).

Find out what type of visa you require from Immigration.

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Prohibited Items into New Zealand

There are certain items that are not allowed inside New Zealand and you can be in a lot of trouble for not declaring them. Some of the prohibited items are food, animals, animal products, plants or plant products, drugs, steroids, weapons, and firearms.

Make sure you check the full list with Customs and the NZ Government.

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Health

Speak to your health professional before traveling to New Zealand and any travel advice from your country.
Check that your Prescription medication is legal in New Zealand before travelling. It is also a good idea to get a letter from your doctor detailing what you require the medicine for.

New Zealand Currency

The currency of New Zealand is New Zealand Dollars. Both cash and credit cards are widely accepted.

Safety

Thieves often target vehicles so don’t leave valuables in your car or campervan.

Always check the weather conditions and be prepared for them to change quickly.

Earthquakes are a risk. Make sure you know what to do during and after an earthquake.

The coast is at risk of tsunamis, therefore, know the warning signs and move to high ground immediately.

Be aware of the active volcanoes. Devastatingly, a volcano on White Island erupted in December 2019, killing 21 people.

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a sandy beach with limestone outcrops in new zealand

Bucket List of Things To Do in New Zealand

Dig your own spa at Hot Water Beach

Hike Cathedral Cove, Karangahake Gorge or the 19.4km one-day hike across the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

See Glowworms at Waitomo Caves

Take a jet boat ride on the Shotover River in Queenstown

Visit the French town of Akaroa

Explore Rotorua

Spend a day in Auckland

Wander around Wellington

See Picton & Marlborough Sounds

Travel to Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula

Cruise the most scenic destination in New Zealand, Milford Sound

Heli-hike Franz Josef Glacier

See The Southern Lights

Experience Maori culture

Go Whale Watching in Kaikoura