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New Zealand
Auckland
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From $81 /day
New Zealand
Known as Aotearoa, New Zealand is a land of dramatic contrast where emerald rainforests meet rugged alpine peaks and turquoise coastlines. You will discover a place where indigenous Māori traditions are deeply woven into modern life, offering a cultural depth as profound as the landscape. From the geothermal wonders of the North Island to the glacial fjords of the South Island, every turn reveals a scene that feels plucked from a cinematic masterpiece. Whether you are seeking the adrenaline of the adventure capital or the stillness of a remote star-gazing reserve, this island nation promises an unforgettable encounter with nature. It is a destination that invites you to breathe deeply and reconnect with the wild beauty of the world.
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We built this guide using official tourism data, local travel insights, and real pricing from our city guides, so you can plan your trip with confidence.
2 cities
6 guides
$81 – $157 Daily Budget
Quick Facts
Capital
Wellington
Languages
English, Māori, New Zealand Sign Language
Currency
Euro (EUR)
1 € ≈ 1.18 $
Plug Type
Type I
Driving Side
Left
Dial Code
+64
Entry Requirements
Check requirements →
Time Zone
NZDT (UTC+13)
Emergency
111 (Police/Fire/Ambulance); 105 (non-emergency crime reporting)
Why Visit New Zealand
Unrivaled Natural Landscapes
You can explore diverse environments ranging from the rolling green hills of Hobbiton to the sheer cliffs of Milford Sound. The country features 13 national parks that protect everything from active volcanoes to ancient glaciers.
Adrenaline and Adventure
As the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping, New Zealand offers endless thrills like skydiving, white-water rafting, and jet boating. Queenstown serves as the ultimate hub for those looking to push their physical limits in breathtaking settings.
Living Māori Heritage
Engaging with Māori culture provides a unique window into the spiritual and historical heart of the islands. You can experience a traditional pōwhiri welcome, watch a powerful haka performance, or learn about ancient wood-carving techniques.
Unique Native Wildlife
The islands are home to extraordinary species found nowhere else on Earth, including the flightless Kiwi bird and the cheeky Kea alpine parrot. Coastal areas offer opportunities to spot rare Hector's dolphins, fur seals, and yellow-eyed penguins in their natural habitats.
Exceptional Wine and Food
From the world-famous Sauvignon Blanc of Marlborough to fresh seafood caught daily, the culinary scene is vibrant and fresh. You can enjoy farm-to-table dining and visit boutique cellar doors set against stunning vineyard backdrops.
Top Experiences
Top-rated tours and activities in New Zealand
Cities & Destinations
Regions
Northland and Bay of Islands
This subtropical region is the cradle of New Zealand history, featuring the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds and 144 islands to explore by boat. You can swim with dolphins, visit giant Tāne Mahuta kauri trees, and enjoy secluded golden beaches.
Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf
Known as the City of Sails, this urban hub is built on a volcanic field and surrounded by two sparkling harbors. You can hike up Rangitoto Island, explore the wineries of Waiheke Island, or enjoy world-class dining in the Viaduct Basin.
Rotorua and Taupō
This geothermal heartland is famous for its bubbling mud pools, explosive geysers, and steaming thermal springs. It is also a major center for Māori culture and offers world-class mountain biking trails through the Whakarewarewa Forest.
Canterbury and the Southern Alps
Stretching across the center of the South Island, this region features the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and the towering peak of Aoraki Mount Cook. It is a premier destination for hiking, skiing, and stargazing within the International Dark Sky Reserve.
Otago and Fiordland
Home to the adventure capital of Queenstown and the dramatic landscapes of Milford Sound, this area is a must-visit for nature lovers. You can cruise through deep fjords, hike the famous Milford Track, or explore the historic gold-mining towns of Central Otago.
Cities & Destinations:
Best Time to Visit
New Zealand is a year-round destination, but summer is most popular for outdoor activities. The weather is highly variable, often described as 'four seasons in one day' regardless of the month.
Peak Season
Dec, Jan, Feb
Summer brings long daylight hours and temperatures of 20–25°C (68–77°F). This is the busiest period for beaches and Great Walks, requiring advanced bookings for all accommodation.
Shoulder Season
Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov
Autumn and spring offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Spring features blooming gardens and powerful waterfalls, while autumn provides stable weather and vibrant golden foliage.
Off-Peak
Jun, Jul, Aug
Winter is the prime time for snow sports in the South Island, particularly around Queenstown. While it is the wettest season for the North Island, the South Island often enjoys crisp, clear blue days.
Getting Around
Transport infrastructure is well-maintained, though public transit is most efficient within major city centers. Exploring rural areas generally requires a car or a campervan.
Flight
Domestic flights via Air New Zealand or Jetstar are the fastest way to travel between the North and South islands, often taking less than 2 hours.
Car
Renting a car or campervan is the most popular way for tourists to see the country. Note that many highways are single-lane in each direction and can be winding and mountainous.
Bus
InterCity operates a comprehensive national network of coaches. In cities like Auckland and Wellington, integrated bus and train networks use cards like AT HOP or Snapper.
Ferry
The Interislander and Bluebridge ferries connect Wellington and Picton across the Cook Strait. The 3.5-hour journey is considered one of the most scenic ferry rides in the world.
Food & Drink
New Zealand cuisine is defined by its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a unique blend of British influence and Māori tradition. The focus is often on high-quality proteins and seasonal produce, resulting in a vibrant farm-to-table and ocean-to-plate culture.
Must Try
Hāngī
This traditional Māori method of cooking involves steaming meat and vegetables in an underground earth oven for several hours to create tender, smoky flavors.
Pavlova
A beloved meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft center, typically topped with whipped cream and fresh seasonal fruit like kiwifruit.
Kaimoana
This term refers to all types of seafood, including the famous green-lipped mussels and Kaikōura crayfish which are staples of the local diet.
Meat Pie
An iconic snack found in every bakery, featuring a flaky pastry crust filled with minced meat and gravy, often costing between $4.71–$8.25 / €4–€7.
Whitebait Fritters
A seasonal delicacy made from tiny freshwater fish mixed into an omelet-style batter and fried, usually served with a squeeze of lemon.
Hokey Pokey Ice Cream
This quintessential flavor consists of creamy vanilla ice cream mixed with small, crunchy lumps of honeycomb toffee.
Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc
The most famous export of the New Zealand wine industry, known globally for its crisp, herbaceous, and tropical fruit notes.
Money & Costs
New Zealand is a mid-to-high cost destination with an average daily budget of ~$152 / €129. Prices are generally higher during the summer months and in remote tourist hubs like Queenstown.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected or culturally required, though a 10% gratuity is appreciated for exceptional restaurant service.
Cards
Card acceptance is near-universal; most vendors prefer contactless payments. Cash is only necessary for some remote markets or honesty boxes.
ATMs
ATMs are widely available in towns and cities. Note that you must declare cash amounts exceeding ~$6,832 / €5,800 (NZD $10,000 / €8,489) when entering or leaving the country.
Culture & Etiquette
The cultural landscape is a harmonious blend of Māori and European customs, characterized by friendliness and a relaxed attitude. Respect for the land and indigenous protocols is central to the New Zealand way of life.
✓
Learn basic Māori greetings like Kia ora to show respect for the local indigenous culture and language.
✕
Do not sit on tables or pillows, as these surfaces are considered tapu or sacred in Māori culture and should only be used for food or heads.
✓
Remove your shoes before entering a Māori meeting house or wharenui, and often when entering a local person's home.
✕
Do not take photos of people or sacred sites during a pōwhiri ceremony without explicitly asking for permission first.
✓
Apply high-SPF sunscreen every morning even on cloudy days, as the UV levels are exceptionally high and can cause burns in under 15 minutes.
✕
Do not feel pressured to tip at restaurants as it is not culturally expected, though a 10% gratuity is appreciated for truly exceptional service.
✓
Follow the Tiaki Promise by caring for the environment, disposing of waste properly, and respecting all native wildlife.
✕
Do not freedom camp in unauthorized areas; use designated campsites to avoid heavy fines and protect the natural environment.
Safety & Health
The country is exceptionally safe for travelers, though natural hazards like earthquakes and landslides are possible. Sun protection is vital due to high UV levels even on cloudy days.
Tap Water
Safe to drink
Vaccinations
No special vaccinations are required; travelers should be up to date on routine MMR and diphtheria-tetanus-polio courses.
Common Scams
- ⚠ Rental car damage claims: Companies or locals claiming previous damage was caused by the current renter.
- ⚠ Distraction theft: Accomplices distracting tourists at scenic lookouts to steal from unattended vehicles.
- ⚠ Accidental spill: A stranger spills liquid on a tourist and attempts to 'help' clean them while pickpocketing.
- ⚠ Photography scam: A local asks a tourist to take a photo, drops the camera, and demands payment for the 'damage'.
The Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) provides personal injury cover for everyone in New Zealand, including visitors, regardless of who was at fault.
Language
English is the primary language spoken daily. However, Māori words are increasingly integrated into common conversation and appear on official signage across the country.
English Spoken: Widely spoken
Key Phrases
| Meaning | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello / Thank you | Kia ora | kee-ah-o-rah |
| Welcome | Haere mai | high-reh-my |
| Good morning | Mōrena | maw-reh-nah |
| See you later | Ka kite anō | kah-kee-teh-ah-naw |
| Hello (formal) | Tēnā koe | teh-nah-kweh |
| Yes | Ae | eye |
| No | Kāore | car-oh-reh |
Visa & Entry
Most international visitors from visa-waiver countries must apply for an NZeTA (Electronic Travel Authority) and pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) before arrival.
Max Stay
90 days (6 months for UK citizens)
Passport Validity
3 months beyond the intended date of departure
Visa-free for
United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, and most European Union citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why you can trust this guide
Jan Křenek
35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
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