New Zealand travel FAQ

Citizens of visa-waiver countries (including the UK, USA, Canada and most of Europe) need an NZeTA, an electronic travel authority, before they fly. Others need a visitor visa. Australian citizens need neither. See Visiting New Zealand: NZeTA, the tourist levy and arrival rules.

The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy is NZ$100 for most visitors, paid with your NZeTA or visa. It funds conservation and tourism infrastructure.

December to February is summer: warm, busy and more expensive. March to May and September to November are quieter and good value. June to August is winter: great for skiing. Read the best time to visit New Zealand.

Two weeks lets you see one island well. Three to four weeks covers the highlights of both. See our 14-day North Island itinerary.

Layers, a good rain jacket and sunscreen, whatever the season: the weather changes fast and the sun is strong. See the road trip packing list and backpacking gear list.

Yes, for a limited time after you arrive, as long as it's current. If it isn't in English, carry an approved translation or an International Driving Permit. Read driving in New Zealand.

The left.

It's the easiest way to see the country, but buses, ferries, trains and domestic flights work too. Compare them in Getting Around New Zealand: Car or No Car?

No. Freedom camping is only allowed in some places, mostly for certified self-contained vehicles. See freedom camping and campsites.

The New Zealand dollar (NZ$). Cards and contactless phone payments are accepted almost everywhere. Prices in shops include 15% GST.

Tipping isn't expected in New Zealand. Wages include service. You're welcome to tip for great service, but nobody will mind if you don't.

Type I plugs (two flat angled pins, sometimes with an earth pin), the same as Australia, at 230 volts.

Tap water in towns and cities is safe to drink. Treat water from rivers and streams before drinking it.

Most international phones work. Local SIM and eSIM cards are sold at the airport and in supermarkets. Coverage is good in towns but patchy in the mountains and remote areas.

111 for police, fire and ambulance. *555 from a mobile to report non-urgent traffic problems.

Generally, yes. The bigger risks are the outdoors: changeable weather, rivers, surf and long drives. Tell someone your plans before a tramp, swim at patrolled beaches between the flags, and take breaks when driving.

Yes. ACC covers treatment for injuries from accidents, including for visitors, but not illness, cancellations, lost bags or getting you home.

The sun in New Zealand is strong, and you can burn quickly even on cool or cloudy days. Wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.

Only with the right visa, such as a working holiday visa. See working holiday in New Zealand.

Start with Moving to New Zealand: visas and your first steps.

A card in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet that works at local shops that use Tappl: stamps and points, vouchers, games such as bingo, and deals. There's no app to download. See how it works.

Go to tappl.app/card, enter your email and add the card to your phone's wallet. At a shop that uses Tappl, tap or scan at the counter.

New Zealandia is written by Glenn Broome. It covers travel, living and products from Aotearoa New Zealand.

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