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