Discovering Aotearoa New Zealand is an adventure you’ll cherish for a lifetime! With its breathtaking landscapes, thrilling activities, and rich Māori heritage, New Zealand has something for everyone. Whether you’re chasing adventure or diving into Kiwi culture, this guide has everything you need to prepare for your trip across the ditch!
Best Ways to Experience New Zealand
Planning a New Zealand getaway? Here are some must-do activities to help you soak up the best of the north and south islands:
Māori Cultural Experiences in Rotorua: Rotorua is a cultural hotspot where you can explore Te Pa Tu, Mitai Māori Village, Te Puia, Whakarewarewa, and the Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park.
Bungy Jumping in Queenstown: Get an adrenaline rush by bungy jumping at the iconic AJ Hackett’s Kawarau Bridge or try swings and ziplines in this thrill-seeker’s paradise.
Skiing or Snowboarding on Mt Ruapehu: New Zealand’s largest ski resort offers slopes for every skill level. Don’t forget to add Winter Sports cover when you book your travel insurance!
Cruise Through Fiordland National Park: Explore the majestic landscapes of Fiordland, particularly Milford and Doubtful Sound. Enjoy a scenic cruise or kayak past towering cliffs, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls, with seals, dolphins, and penguins often joining along the way.
Explore the Hobbiton Movie Set: Located in Matamata, the Hobbiton movie set offers a magical experience for movie buffs and fantasy fans alike. Stroll through the picturesque green hills and hobbit holes, then enjoy a drink at The Green Dragon Inn for a taste of Middle-earth.
Wine Tasting in Marlborough: The Marlborough region is a haven for wine lovers, particularly known for its world-renowned Sauvignon Blanc. Embark on a wine tour by bike or car, and sample wines directly from the cellar doors at vineyards like Cloudy Bay, Brancott Estate, and more.
Essentials for Your New Zealand Visit
Climate:
The summer months (December–February) bring warm weather and outdoor fun, while winter (June–August) is perfect for hitting the slopes. Expect highs of 20-30°C in summer and 10-15°C in winter.
Culture & Language:
English and Māori are New Zealand’s official languages. Respect sacred sites and Māori customs; remember, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body.
Getting Around:
Explore New Zealand by car or campervan to truly appreciate its scenic routes or take buses if you’d rather sit back and relax.
Accommodation:
From hotels to hostels, holiday parks to farm stays, New Zealand offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveller.
Entry Requirements:
Australian citizens and most permanent residents can visit without a visa. Permanent residents should apply for an NZeTA. Check Smartraveller for the latest entry advice.
Preparing for Your Trip Checklist
Ready for your New Zealand escape? Here’s a handy checklist to make sure you’re set for an unforgettable getaway:
- Check passport validity: Ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your departure date.
- Verify entry requirements: Confirm you meet New Zealand’s visitor entry requirements.
- Arrange travel funds: Set up a travel currency card or payment method, and consider carrying some New Zealand Dollars (NZD) for cash-only spots.
- Notify your bank: Let your financial institution know you’ll be travelling.
- Review phone coverage: Contact your phone provider to check if your plan covers New Zealand or consider a pre-paid international SIM card.
- Book your accommodations and share travel details with someone at home.
- Get travel insurance: We partner with PassportCard, Australia's only travel insurance with instant payouts for common claims using the PassportCard Travel Insurance. Medical issue overseas, delayed luggage or stolen cash? PassportCard can load funds onto the card so you can pay for common claims on the spot.
- If you are skiing or doing some adventure activities, check your travel insurance for coverage. Some providers, like PassportCard, have optional cover for winter sports and adventure activities.
Find out more about PassportCard or get a quote for your next trip.
