New Zealand
New Zealand is known for it’s pure nature and remote location. The stunning landscapers here are ideal for the outdoor traveler. From mountain peaks to glaciers and intense blue lakes, you will find it all here! During the summer we made a tour through both northern and southern part with a rental car and tent. On this page you will find all our travel information for New Zealand.
Travel Information New Zealand
De Best Travel Route for New Zealand
Since most of New Zealand consists of the north and south islands, most travelers choose to do a road trip through both parts of the country. We did a trip through both parts ourselves, starting in Queenstown, driving all the way to Auckland in the north of the North Island. Of course, you could easily do this route the other way around.
New Zealand Itinerary 3 Weeks Self Drive: the Ultimate Route
New Zealand is best visited with a rental car, as the country is large and mainly consists of remote areas in nature. For our roadtrip through both islands, we rented a car through Sunnycars. They provide an all-in price with full insurance and the option to cancel up up to one hour before departure for free!
Visa and Entry Requirements
As visitors from the Netherlands, we needed a valid NZetA (and of course our passports). Since this electronic visa is limited to only a list of countries and entry requirements may change over time, always check which requirements hold for you for entering the country. We did apply directly through the official website of the New Zealand government.
Travel Budget and Currency
Traveling through New Zealand can be quite expensive. We travelled in summer period (December) and bought a small tent once we arrived in the country. This way, we could use the DOC-campsites that are located all over the country, to keep costs of accommodation to a minimum. The currency in the country is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD).
Travel Budget New Zealand: How Much does a Road Trip cost?
New Zealand Dollar Exchange Rate (NZD) | Revolut
Climate and Weather in New Zealand
New Zealand is located at the southern hemisphere, which means Christmas in summer and winter in August. The Southern Island is more rainy and colder, especially further towards the southernmost point (Milford Sound), whereas Northern Island is much warmer. You can even have nice warm days with a tropical touch on the beaches here! You may always expect rainy days in the country
Climate of New Zealand | Wikipedia
Peak and Low Season
Peak season is mainly in the summer months from December and January. Furthermore, New Zealand has multiple ski resorts, making it a nice destination for winter sports during August.
Popular Attractions
Travelling to New Zealand is mainly done for the stunning nature that the country has to offer! There are so many nice hikes in the remote mountaneous areas. Besides really popular day hikes like the Tongariro Crossing, there are also many multi-day hikes in Abel Tasman NP for example.
Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing for Free!
Health and Safety
We did not experience any problems with both health and safety when visiting New Zealand. The country is not densely populated and most of the time you’ll be in nature on your own. We were most annoyed by the sand flies, to be honest. Of course, it is always advisable to check current conditions that apply to your specific situation before travelling.
Culture and Traditions in New Zealand
Although we did not visit the country for its culture and traditions, there is a lot to discover on the Maori people.
Internet and connectivity
We used an Esim during our travel period and were quite happy with it. Although you could also use a local sim-card at the airport of arrival, Esim is just easier as you are connected the moment you land!
Looking for a data package? We mostly use the Esim plan from Airalo for connectivity in foreign countries. Use the code MEIKE4854 for a €3,- discount on your first purchase!
