New Zealand
It might not be the cheapest or the easiest to get to, even if you’re in nearby Australia or SE Asia, but it is well worth the trip. No matter how many great things you’ve heard about traveling New Zealand before, you will still not be prepared for what awaits you in this stunning country.
Basic Info
Drinking water: Safe to drink from the tap
Plugs: Type I (See photo below)
Covid Updates
Closed for international travel
Money
Official currency: $ New Zealand dollar
Budget: Traveling New Zealand is NOT cheap. Overall prices along with adventure sports, tours and transportation all start to add up but most places cater well to backpackers. Dorm beds in a hostel will run you $20-$35 NZD; $5-$10 for a beer; $2-$4 for a coffee
Credit cards: Contactless credit cards are used virtually everywhere
Tipping: Not customary
Visas
Visa waivers for over 60 countries
**Always check with your government for the most up to date information on visa requirements.**
Vaccinations
None
**Assuming you are current on routine vaccinations. Always check with your government for the most accurate and up to date information on required vaccinations specific to your home country**
Safety
Exercise Normal Precautions
**Always check with your government for the most accurate and up to date information on safety**
Language
Official Languages: English and NZ Sign Language
Some helpful kiwi slang and Maori
Ta: Thank-you Sweet as: Cool/awesome
Jandals: Flip flops
Jafa: Someone from Auckland
Daiy: Corner store/bodega
Kia Ora: Hi (Maori)
When to go
The best time to travel New Zealand will depend on what you want to do. High season, which brings the most visitors and the highest prices, is the summer months between January and March and June and July for winter activities.
Ski season lasts from May – September
Shoulder season: October – November / April
Responsible Travel
Respect Maori cultures and traditions. If you’re taking a tour, make sure the company is helping to preserve cultural traditions. Be aware of sacred lands (for instance the peak of the famous Mount Doom Mountain) and avoid entering that area. Only travel with reputable tour operators for whale and dolphin watching and be very careful not to introduce anything new to their ecosystem.
