New Zealand travel tips
What Michael tells every traveller before their first New Zealand trip: the paperwork, the roads, the weather and the small things that make a difference.
Entry and the NZeTA
Most visitors from visa-waiver countries need a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before they fly, which includes the tourism levy. Australian citizens don't. Apply through the official Immigration New Zealand app or website, not a third-party site.
Biosecurity at the border
New Zealand is strict about what comes in. Declare all food, plant material and outdoor gear such as hiking boots and tents, and make sure they are clean. If in doubt, declare it.
Driving on the left
New Zealand drives on the left. A licence in English is valid for up to 12 months; otherwise carry an approved translation or an International Driving Permit. Most roads are two-lane and winding, so plan shorter days than the map suggests.
Driving times between the main stopsWhen to go
Summer (December to February) is warm and busy. Autumn and spring are quieter, with good walking weather. Winter (June to August) brings skiing in the Southern Alps and clear, cold days. Weather changes fast in any season, so pack layers.
Seasonal guidesMoney
New Zealand uses the New Zealand dollar (NZD). Cards and contactless payment are accepted almost everywhere; carry a little cash for small rural places. Tipping is not expected.
Sun and sandflies
The sun is strong, even on cloudy days: use sunscreen and a hat. On the West Coast and in Fiordland, insect repellent keeps the sandflies away.
Time zone
New Zealand Standard Time is 12 hours ahead of UTC. Daylight saving runs from late September to early April.
Power
230 volts, with the same three-pin plug (type I) as Australia. Bring an adapter if your devices use another plug.
Getting around
A rental car or campervan is the easiest way to see the country. Domestic flights save long drives between the islands; the Cook Strait ferry links Wellington and Picton; the TranzAlpine train crosses the Southern Alps.
Rental and transport partners
Entry rules change. Check the official government site for your passport before you book.
