Lake Tekapo - New Zealand
Lake Tekapo
Picturesque by day and dazzling by night, Lake Tekapo is part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, making it the perfect spot for stargazing.

Lake Tekapo

Picturesque by day and dazzling by night, Lake Tekapo is part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, making it the...

Lupines in Milford Sound, New Zealand
Milford Sound
Lupines prefer full sun, at least six hours of direct sunlight on most days, to grow and bloom their best.

Milford Sound

Lupines prefer full sun, at least six hours of direct sunlight on most days, to grow and bloom their best.

Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown
Known as the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown is home to a range of adventures, including world's first and most famous bungy jumps.

Queenstown

Known as the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown is home to a range of adventures, including world's...

New Zealand flag

New Zealand Travel Information

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Key facts

Capital:

Wellington

Location:

Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, southeast of Australia

Currency:

New Zealand dollars (NZD)

Area:

268,838 sq km

Population:

4,991,442 (July 2021 est.)

Languages:

English (de facto official) 95.4%, Maori (de jure official) 4%, Samoan 2.2%, Northern Chinese 2%, Hindi 1.5%, French 1.2%, Yue 1.1%, New Zealand Sign Language (de jure official) 0.5%, other or not stated 17.2% (2018 est.)

Religion:

Christian 37.3% (Catholic 10.1%, Anglican 6.8%, Presbyterian and Congregational 5.2%, Pentecostal 1.8%, Methodist 1.6%, Church of Jesus Christ 1.2%, other 10.7%), Hindu 2.7%, Maori 1.3%, Muslim, 1.3%, Buddhist 1.1%, other religion 1.6% (includes Judaism, Spiritualism and New Age religions, Baha'i, Asian religions other than Buddhism), no religion 48.6%, objected to answering 6.7% (2018 est.)

TimeZone:

UTC+12

Tel Code:

+64

Things to Do

  • 1. Bungee Jumping at Kawarau Bridge

    Experience the thrill of bungee jumping from the historic Kawarau Bridge, the birthplace of commercial bungee jumping. Plunge into the stunning Kawarau Gorge and feel the adrenaline rush.

  • 2. Hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

    Embark on an epic day hike across the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, known for its awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes. Discover emerald lakes, ancient lava flows, and breathtaking views.

  • 3. Cruising Milford Sound

    Take a scenic cruise through the breathtaking Milford Sound, a fjord in Fiordland National Park. Marvel at towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.

  • 4. Skydiving in Queenstown

    Experience the ultimate thrill of skydiving in Queenstown, considered the adventure capital of New Zealand. Soar through the skies and enjoy panoramic views of the stunning landscape.

  • 5. Exploring the Waitomo Glowworm Caves

    Discover the enchanting glowworm caves in Waitomo, where thousands of tiny bioluminescent glowworms create a magical display. Take a boat ride through the illuminated cave system.

  • 6. Skiing in Mount Hutt

    Hit the slopes of Mount Hutt, one of New Zealand's premier ski destinations. Enjoy a thrilling day of skiing or snowboarding amidst stunning alpine scenery.

  • 7. Maori Cultural Experience in Rotorua

    Immerse yourself in Maori culture in Rotorua, known for its geothermal wonders. Participate in traditional Maori ceremonies, enjoy a hangi feast, and learn about indigenous arts and crafts.

  • 8. Wine Tasting in Marlborough

    Indulge in a wine tasting tour in Marlborough, New Zealand's famous wine region. Sample a variety of award-winning wines and explore picturesque vineyards.

  • 9. Cycling the Otago Central Rail Trail

    Experience the beauty of New Zealand's countryside by cycling along the Otago Central Rail Trail. Discover historic gold-mining towns, scenic landscapes, and charming country pubs.

  • 10. Beach Hopping in Coromandel

    Explore the stunning beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula, famous for their golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and coastal walks.

Weather

New Zealand has a temperate maritime climate, which means that the weather can be changeable and temperatures are generally mild. The country's location in the southern hemisphere means that the seasons are opposite to those in the northern hemisphere.

Summer (December-February)

  • Summer is the warmest season with temperatures averaging around 20-25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.
  • It is also the most popular time to visit New Zealand as it is the best season for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and beach trips.

Autumn (March-May)

  • Autumn is a great time to visit New Zealand as the weather is still mild and the countryside is filled with colorful foliage.
  • Temperatures during this time of the year average around 15-20 degrees Celsius (59-68 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.

Winter (June-August)

  • Winter is the coolest season with temperatures averaging around 10-15 degrees Celsius (50-59 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.
  • Skiing and snowboarding are popular activities during the winter months in the South Island.

Spring (September-November)

  • Spring is a great time to visit New Zealand as the weather starts to warm up and the countryside is filled with blooming flowers.
  • Temperatures during this time of the year average around 15-20 degrees Celsius (59-68 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.

It's worth noting that the weather in New Zealand can be unpredictable and can change rapidly, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast and pack appropriate clothing. Additionally, the peak tourism season in New Zealand is during the Christmas and New Year holidays, so it can be more difficult to find accommodation and flights during this time.

Food

Hangi

Hangi

Hangi is a traditional Maori method of cooking food using heated rocks buried in a pit oven. The food, including meat, vegetables, and sometimes seafood, is slow-cooked to tender perfection, resulting in a smoky, earthy flavor that's deeply rooted in Maori culture.

Pavlova

Pavlova

Pavlova is a beloved dessert consisting of a meringue base topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits, such as kiwifruit and berries. Light and airy, with a crisp exterior and marshmallow-like center, it's a sweet treat that's adored by Kiwis and often enjoyed during festive occasions.

Lamb Roast

Lamb Roast

Lamb Roast is a classic New Zealand dish featuring succulent roasted lamb, often seasoned with rosemary and garlic, served alongside hearty portions of roasted vegetables. This wholesome meal is a favorite for Sunday family gatherings and holidays.

Hokey Pokey Ice Cream

Hokey Pokey Ice Cream

Hokey Pokey Ice Cream is a quintessential New Zealand treat made with vanilla ice cream and golden nuggets of honeycomb toffee. With its delightful crunch and sweet flavor, it's a nostalgic favorite that brings joy to ice cream lovers of all ages.

Whitebait Fritters

Whitebait Fritters

Whitebait Fritters are a popular Kiwi dish made with a delicate mixture of whitebait, eggs, and seasoning, pan-fried to golden perfection. The tender, flavorful fritters are often enjoyed as a snack or served as a delightful appetizer.

Accommodation

There are a variety of accommodation options available for visitors to New Zealand, including:

Hotels

From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, there are hotels available in most major cities and tourist destinations.

Guesthouses

These are a more budget-friendly option and can be found in many smaller towns and villages.

Motels

Motels are common in New Zealand and offer a variety of amenities such as self-contained units and kitchen facilities.

Holiday homes

Renting a holiday home or vacation rental is a popular option for visitors to New Zealand, particularly for those traveling with families or groups of friends.

Hostels

Hostels are popular in major cities and tourist destinations, and can be a good budget-friendly option for solo travelers or backpackers.

Campsites

Many national parks and other remote areas in New Zealand have camping facilities for visitors, which can be a great way to experience the natural beauty of the country.

It's important to note that depending on the location and type of accommodation, prices and availability may vary greatly. It's always a good idea to research and book in advance, especially during peak tourism season.

Transportation

There are several transportation options for traveling in New Zealand, including:

Air travel

New Zealand's two main airports, Auckland and Christchurch, offer direct flights to and from various international destinations. Additionally, there are several domestic airlines that offer flights between major cities and regional areas within New Zealand.

Ground transportation

  • Public transportation such as buses and trains are available in major cities like Auckland and Christchurch.
  • Rental cars and campervans are popular options for road trips and exploring regional areas.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber are also available in most major cities.

Water transportation

  • Ferries are available for travel between islands, particularly between the North and South Island.
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  • Bicycles and e-bikes are also available for rent in some cities, such as Auckland.
  • Walking and hiking are also popular options for exploring natural areas and national parks.

It's important to note that transportation options and availability may vary depending on the location in New Zealand. It's a good idea to research and plan transportation in advance, especially if you're planning to visit more remote areas.

Money

Currency

  • The official currency of New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD).
  • Coins are available in denominations of 10, 20, and 50 cents, as well as 1 and 2 dollars.
  • Banknotes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 dollars.

Cash And Cards

  • Credit cards are widely accepted in New Zealand, with Visa and MasterCard being the most commonly accepted.
  • It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in case of emergencies.
  • Keep small notes and coins for convenience.

ATMs

  • ATMs are easily accessible throughout New Zealand.
  • International debit and credit cards can be used to withdraw cash.
  • Some ATMs may charge a fee for withdrawals, so it's best to check with your bank for any applicable fees.

Tipping

  • Tipping is not a common practice in New Zealand, as it is not expected or required.
  • If you receive exceptional service, you can choose to leave a small tip, but it is not mandatory.

Cost Of Living

  • The cost of living in New Zealand can vary depending on the location.
  • Accommodation, transportation, and dining out can be relatively expensive compared to some other countries.
  • It's always a good idea to have a budget in mind and plan your expenses accordingly.

Scams

  • New Zealand is generally a safe country, but like anywhere else, it's important to be aware of common scams.
  • Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls or emails asking for personal information or financial details.
  • Always verify the authenticity of any requests before providing any sensitive information.