Are you planning to go to New Zealand for the Christmas holiday or New Year’s Eve? It’s one of the busiest seasons for Visitor Visa Applications. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has issued an advisory; Immigration New Zealand (INZ) expects to receive over 260,000 visitor visa applications during the busy summer season, so don’t be surprised that the year-end is Summer in NZ.
Whether you’re here for a New Year bash, Christmas celebration, or a Working Holiday Visa, New Zealand is known for breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife, and friendly locals. The ten tips below will help you make the most of your visit.
Choose Your Island (Or Do Both!)
New Zealand’s North and South Islands offer distinctly different experiences. The North Island has the bustling city centres of Tauranga, Wellington, and Auckland and is also known for the geothermal wonders in Rotorua and the famous Hobbiton movie set. The North Island also has Cape Reinga, the northernmost accessible point, and beautiful beaches along the coastline. The South Island, on the other hand, is famous for its rugged landscapes and world-renowned destinations like Queenstown, with its remarkable mountains and stunning lakes, Milford Sound, and glaciers. Christchurch, New Zealand’s second-largest city, is also in the South. Both islands are worth visiting, but make sure to plan your time accordingly since there’s a lot of ground to cover.
- Know the Seasons
New Zealand has four distinct seasons, which are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. When it’s winter up north, it’s summer here. For summer, shorts, a T-shirt, and some flip-flops will do, but in spring and autumn, the weather gets cooler. A hoodie is usually fine for the North Island, but an extra layer may be needed in the South. In winter, the South Island can even drop into negative temperatures, so pack warm clothing if you’re visiting during this season.
- Book Early During Peak Season
Year end or Summer is peak travel season in New Zealand, so book your popular activities and accommodations in advance. For example, we had to book our Hobbiton banquet tour dinner about a month and a half in advance to get a spot. To avoid missing out on must-do experiences, be sure to reserve early!
- Keep New Zealand Clean and Green
New Zealanders take pride in keeping the country clean and green. In one instance, a family visiting from the UK made headlines when they left trash around. Don’t make the same mistake; keep New Zealand beautiful by cleaning up after yourself.
- Learn Some Kiwi Slang
Brush up on a few Kiwi slang terms, as they might sound confusing at first. Phrases like “yeah nah” and “she’ll be right” are commonly used. For a deeper dive, check out our favourite
- Learn Māori words and gestures
learn a few basic Māori words and gestures to connect with locals on a deeper level. Māori words like “kia ora” (hello), “whānau” (family), and “kai” (food) are part of everyday language. When greeting people, learning the hongi, a traditional Māori gesture where people press their ses to share the “breath of life,” can show your respect for the culture.
- Plan Your Transportation
The most flexible way to explore New Zealand is by renting a car or motorhome. New Zealand has a great campervan infrastructure, making it easy to explore rural areas and small towns. Alternatively, you can take scenic trains: Auckland to Wellington in the North, and Picton to Christchurch or Christchurch to Greymouth in the South. If you’re in a smaller town, public transport may be limited, so a car can be a huge advantage. Just remember, we drive on the left side of the road!
- Respect Biosecurity Rules
New Zealand has strict rules about bringing food and other items into the country due to biosecurity risks. Declare any food items and clean any outdoor gear to avoid hefty fines. Even a piece of fruit can result in fines if not declared. We also ask visitors to keep outdoor equipment clean to prevent diseases like kauri dieback from spreading.
- Set a Realistic Budget
New Zealand can be pricey, so it’s essential to budget accordingly. Backpacker accommodation can cost between $20 to $50 per night, while hotels range from $100 to $200 or more. Transportation can be expensive, with gas prices ranging from $75 to $150 per fill-up, depending on the vehicle size. Meals can cost between $15 and $50, depending on where you dine. Tipping is not required, but some fancier places may offer the option. Plan on spending about $100 to $150 per day on the low end or up to $250 per day if you’re looking to splurge.
- Try the Thrills!
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, New Zealand is the perfect destination. As the birthplace of bungee jumping, New Zealand also offers skydiving, zip-lining, luge rides, and more. The landscapes are as breathtaking as the adventures themselves, making it a must-visit spot for thrill-seekers.
So there you have it—ten tips to help make your New Zealand adventure unforgettable.
