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65 Genius Travel Gadgets & Accessories ✈️ [2024]

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, travel gadgets that you didn’t know you needed….

… Until now! Yes, these travel gadgets are so ridiculously genius! Make your vacation (can we suggest to New Zealand ?) a breeze with the helping hand of a solar panel backpack, a filtration drinking straw, and a, erm, stained underpants safe…? Whether it’s to keep your valuables safe or charge your phone in dire situations, we have listed all the must-have travel gadgets and accessories for your upcoming trip!

Some of these gadgets will be a life-saver out on a hike or when home comforts are scarce, whereas some gadgets are so funny we can’t resist sharing them with you. So add a few more handy travel gadgets to your backpack and you’ll be ready for the ultimate trip!

1. Airplane Window Organisation Station

That’s right, we’re starting off with one of the most unique travel gadgets out there, the BevLedge ! This airplane window organisation station allows you to utilise the limited space you have on a flight. The fold-up shelf has various slots to hold cups, phones, pens, eyewear, earphones and wireless earphones.

Check out the BevLedge  on Amazon.

2. Power Bank

Keep a spare power bank in your backpack at all times to get that extra power boost or emergency phone call even if your battery runs out. Most power banks are incredibly small and will fit anywhere, especially Anker Power Banks which come in a range of capacities and even some with magnets and pop-socket grips to attach anywhere. We recommend going for a power bank with a minimum of 2,000 mAh for long-lasting power, but there are options to suit a range of portable power needs.

Check out the Anker Power Banks  on Amazon.

3. Portable Power Station

A few steps up from a power bank, a power station will power your entire campervan if you want it to! Powerful portable generators like those from BLUETTI have a huge power capacity to essentially take your electricity needs on the road with you. Unlike traditional generators that use petrol or diesel to run, these simply require to be charged at an AC outlet, in your vehicle’s cigarette lighter or using solar panels. Some of our favourites are the BLUETTI AC300 and AC500 with a huge 3,000 W or 5,000 W of power and a base 3,072 Wh of battery capacity with a modular system that can be upgraded to hold a massive 18,423 Wh! For more ways to power your road trip, check out the 5 Ways to Power Your Campervan for Cheap .

Check out portable power stations on bluettipower.com.au .

4. Portable Phone Mount

Is the inflight entertainment not doing it for you? Need to make your video calls more stable when you’re on the go? Want to watch videos on your phone hands-free just about anywhere? Then you need this nifty Perilogics Phone Mount with a sturdy clamp and 360-degree rotation! It’s pocket-sized and will clamp onto just about anything.

Check out the Perilogics Phone Mount on Amazon.

5. Flex Flap Phone and Tablet Holder

Ok, so we couldn’t decide which one was better so we decided to show you another awesome design for a phone holder (which also has the added bonus of holding larger devices like a tablet). The Flex Flap by Airglo is made with an aluminium alloy core that’s adjustable yet super strong so you can mount your phone in a number of positions or even hang your bag from a table or chair. Seriously, have a look.

Check out the Flex Flap by Airglo  on Amazon.

6. Water Purifying Straw (or Collapsible Bottle)

Carrying large bottles of water is not only heavy as hell, but it takes up a lot of much-needed space when trail running, camping or on a multi-day hike . Take less water and accompany that with the Lifestraw Purification Straw . Drink water from anywhere (except the sea) and it r emoves a minimum 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria. Check out their Collapsible Bottle as a portable travel-friendly alternative which will help you save some water for later. 

Check out the LifeStraw or the Collapsible Bottle on Amazon.

7. Vegan and Environmentally Friendly Travel Toiletries Kit

Travelling is for trying new things, as are toiletry starter kits when you want to sample a new brand! Combine both with the Malin + Goetz Essential Starter Kit , including shampoo, conditioner, facial cleanser and moisturiser, and body wash and moisturiser – all using natural ingredients in a recyclable aluminium tube, travel-ready in a biodegradable bag, and 100% vegan. For more eco-tips for travelling, check out the 31 Ways to Travel More Sustainably in New Zealand .

Check out the Malin + Goetz Essential Starter Kit  on Amazon.

8. Leak Proof Travel Bottles

If you’d rather stick to the toiletry brands you know and love, then use these reusable Dot&Dot Travel Bottles . Not only are the bottles and transparent bag designed to make going through airport security a breeze, but the one that does it for us is the leak-proof soft and squeezable silicone design!

Check out the Dot&Dot Travel Bottles  on Amazon.

9. Bagsmart Toiletry Bag

Speaking of toiletries, we’ve seen so many people using these in hostels that we just couldn’t resist sharing this genius travel accessory with you! Cue the Bagsmart Toiletry Bag with four compartments that unfold vertically and a stow-away hook to hang your bag anywhere. All your toiletries are presented to you in this well-designed bag with elastic straps in the inner main pocket to hold bottles upright.

Check out the Bagsmart Toiletry Bag  on Amazon.

10. Gorilla Pod

This is perfect for the solo traveller or anyone self-filming their travel experiences. The legs of the JOBY Gorilla Pod wrap around pretty much anything, whether it’s trees when hiking in the forest or standing on a table. It even makes a great selfie stick! And here are more of the 10 Reasons to Travel Alone !

Check out the JOBY GorillaPod out on Amazon.

11. Handheld Luggage Scale

Are you one of those people that tends to come back from a getaway with more than you left? Us too. That’s why the NZ Pocket Guide team have been travelling with the Etekcity Luggage Scale for a few years now and has saved us a bunch on excess luggage fees. Simply wrap the strap around your luggage handle, lift and weigh!

Check out the Etekcity Luggage Scale on Amazon.

12. Luggage Strap

So simple yet so effective! Secure a second bag or jacket to the handle of your suitcase with the Gefenlus Luggage Strap . Made with high elastic rubber and quality pressure variable PU leather, your items will be secure. Not to mention, the strap is easy to assemble and disassemble with a quick-release buckle.

Check out the Gefenlus Luggage Strap on Amazon.

13. Luggage Cup Holder

Another take on the luggage strap, this one is for all of you coffee addicts out there. With two pouches suitable for holding drinks and a third back pocket for your phone or any other small loose items you’d rather not carry, the riemot Luggage Cup Holder could be a life saver!

Check out the riemot Luggage Cup Holder  on Amazon.

14. GPS Fitness and Adventure Watch

Keep on track with a GPS watch that captures your steps, active minutes, distance, calories burned and sleep. Retrace your steps and find new routes. GPS watches like Garmin offer peace of mind when you’re out hiking, as well as provide fun data even for a day of sightseeing. Plus, you can look back on your trip knowing that it wasn’t all about sipping cocktails but marking a new page in your fitness lifestyle!

Check out the Garmin Store on Amazon.

15. Microfibre Travel Towel

Travel towels are compact, hygienic and dry in a heartbeat. Traditional towels are huge, end up smelling awful, and seem to never dry when you are constantly on the move. That’s a slamdunk for microfibre, ladies and gentlemen! In conclusion, microfibre travel towels – like the 4Monster Camping Towels but there are a lot more out there – are a must-have. We consider this one of the 15 Essentials to Pack for New Zealand !

Check out the 4Monster Camping Towels  on Amazon.

16. Everywhere Belt Bag

Fanny packs are back, baby! And thank goodness, because these bad boys really are handy for enjoying hands-free storage while not having to worry “Where did I put my bag?” We like the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bags that come in a range of colours and fabrics and have an adjustable strap to go around your waist or across your body.

Check out the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bags on Amazon.

17. Foldable Backpack

If you need something a bit “bigger” to carry your belongings as a baggage backup, check out this ridiculous 4Monster Foldable Backpack ! Weighing only 115 g (4 oz), about half of the weight of an iPhone, this backpack can be folded into an included pouch and literally put in your pocket.

Check out the 4Monster Foldable Backpack  on Amazon.

18. Bluetooth Item Locator

If your bag, phone, keys, wallet or other valuables decide to go walkabout, find them with ease using a Bluetooth item locator. The most versatile option is Tile , with Bluetooth locators in all shapes, sizes and bundles and can be used with both an iOS and Android app. Alternatively, Apple does a similar thing with the Apple AirTag .

Check out the Tile Store or Apple AirTag on Amazon.

19. Portable Door Lock

We can’t always guarantee that an Airbnb or short-term rental is secure with a lockable door, so bring your own with the Addalock ! This portable door lock can be secured to any door that is hinged and swings inward, yet it doesn’t require any tools to install.

Check out the Addalock on Amazon.

20. Steam Clip

Although the main purpose of this unsuspecting little tool is to hang clothes near your hotel shower to steam the wrinkles out, there’s so much more to the Steam Clip ! This multi-tool can be used as a bottle opener, a phone stand, a thread/tag cutter, a ruler, an extra hook around your hotel rooms or to hang your bag at a table.

Check out the Steam Clip   on Amazon.

21. Action Camera

Whatever brand you prefer, but you’ve likely heard of GoPro , the action camera is a great way to capture your whole trip while not having to carry a ton of different heavy cameras. Waterproof, wide lens, small and shockproof: it has it all for the adventurous traveller. Try not to get carried away when shopping for accessories though – stick to what you will really use.

Check out the GoPro Store on Amazon!

22. Foot Hammock

Give your feet and lower back relief from a long flight (like your flight to New Zealand , am I right?) or even a long journey on the bus or train with the Basic Concepts Foot Hammock ! With a one-size-fits-all design and the ability to fold up nice-and-tight for portability, this foot hammock is the perfect travel companion for comfort.

Check out the Basic Concepts Foot Hammock on Amazon.

23. Luxury Travel Pillow

Speaking of comfort, make sure your travel pillow is the most comfortable one out there with the Ostrichpillow . Sure, travel pillows are nothing new but they’ve never been exactly that comfortable either. Well, Ostrichpillow has finally cracked it with its innovative shape and high-density memory foam. The pillow fits into a travel bag that’s half its size and has a machine-washable sleeve so you can use it trip after trip!

Check out the Ostrichpillow on Amazon.

24. Mavogel Cotton Sleep Mask

To complete the flight-comfort ensemble, block out all light yet enjoy comfort and breathability with the Mavogel Cotton Sleep Mask . Far from your average sleep mask, this baby uses a patented bending cartilage design which is adjustable and durable, effectively blocking light coming from the nose area. It also features five layers of breathable fabric, including cotton, elastic sponge and modaier, which offers you ultra-soft touch on the eyes.

Check out the Mavogel Cotton Sleep Mask  on Amazon.

25. Infinity Scarf

Stash your valuables where nobody would think to look; your scarf! That’s right, the Zero Grid Infinity Scarf has two hidden zipper pockets that blend seamlessly so nobody can see that you’re carrying your passport, ID, cash or other valuables around your neck. They even back their patented design by offering a $300 reimbursement in the unlikely event that your scarf gets stolen!

Check out the Zero Grid Infinity Scarf on Amazon.

26. Credit Card Utility Tool

Pack a few useful tools into a convenient slim shape and you’ve got the most useful card in your wallet! Many brands have their version of the “utility card” or “credit card knife”, but we like the Lever Gear Toolcard which packs 40 tools into one credit card-sized tool. Make sure to pack it in your check-in baggage at the airport though or you may have to surrender it when passing through the security gates.

Check out the Lever Gear Toolcard on Amazon.

27. Travel Shoe Bags

We all know that carrying dirty shoes in amongst your suitcase is not ideal. So why not pack them in their own Yamiu Travel Shoe Bag ? They are waterproof and come with a strap so you can hang up your holiday shoes in your wardrobe to keep the dust off them until your next trip.

Check out the Yamiu Travel Shoe Bag  on Amazon.

28. Travel Jewellery Box

Another handy packing solution, avoid tangled jewellery with this plush Travel Jewellery Box by Benevolence Los Angeles . This compact 9.5 x 9.5 cm (3.75 x 3.75 in) velvet-finished box comes with seven slot rolls and three rectangular divisions and earring compartments.

Check out the Travel Jewellery Box by Benevolence Los Angeles  on Amazon.

29. Travel Cubes

Since we’re on the organisation train, if you haven’t already got some travel cubes in your life, then now is your chance. We’ve been using them for years and never looked back! Travel cubes make finding things in your suitcase or backpack so much faster. Sets like these from Amazon Basics come in various shapes and sizes to suit a range of clothes and accessories.

Check out the Amazon Basics  on Amazon.

30. Portable UV Toothbrush Sanitiser

If you’re a bit of a germaphobe, this one is for you. Don’t just store your toothbrush in a travel case; disinfect it using UV-C technology! The UOXV Portable UV Toothbrush Sanitiser is said to kill bacteria and viruses, which is 99% effective. With a built-in battery and a USB-C input, it’s also easy to charge.

Check out the UOXV Portable UV Toothbrush Sanitiser on Amazon.

31. AirFly Audio Transmitter

One for all your AirPod users out there, transmit audio from inflight entertainment, rental cars, gaming devices and just about anything with a 3.5 mm audio jack using the AirFly Audio Transmitter . You can even share the experience, as the AirFly connects to up to two AirPods.

Check out the AirFly Audio Transmitter  on Amazon.

32. Foldable Wireless Charger

Another one for Apple users, the UCOMX Nano 3-in-1 Wireless Charger charges your iPhone, AirPods and iWatch by simply plonking them on this foldable and magnetic soft silicone pad, replacing individual charging devices that can quickly become a mess in your bag. What’s more, it comes in nine sexy colours.

Check out the UCOMX Nano 3-in-1 Wireless Charger  on Amazon.

33. Cable Organiser

And for the rest of us poor souls that still have a lot of cables in our lives, no matter how “unplugged” we want to be when travelling, spending a few dollars on a bunch of cable organisers can save the hassle of having to untangle or fold cables every time you need to use them. Check out these cute Tophome ones!

Check out the Tophome Cable Organiser  on Amazon.

34. Universal Travel Adapter

Everyone knows that they will likely need a travel adapter when travelling to a new and exotic land. Instead of buying a new adapter for each different country, make it the last travel adapter you’ll ever need with a universal travel adapter! There are a million of these on the market, but the Joomfeen Universal Travel Adapter ticks all of the boxes by covering more than 150 countries, having surge protection, USB and wall socket inputs and more. However, like most standard travel adapters, this does not change voltage – you can learn more about the significance of that over at our guide to  Electrical Outlets & Power Plugs .

Check out the Joomfeen Universal Travel Adapter  on Amazon.

35. Travel Power Strip

The perfect companion for your travel adapter is the pocket-sized Ntonpower Power Strip . We’ve all experienced a lack of electrical outlets in some hotel or hostel rooms, while it’s also likely that you’ve needed to charge multiple devices but only have one travel adapter. This travel-sized multi-plug comes with your choice of outlet configurations.

Check out the Ntonpower Power Strip  on Amazon.

36. Shockproof Electronics Carry Case

And for all of those electrical devices you plan on travelling with, whether it’s your phone, a power bank, a battery case, an adapter, etc., make sure they are well protected from the usual knocks and bumps of transit with the iMangoo Shockproof Carry Case . This universal electronics case comes complete with mesh pockets and elastic straps to keep everything in place and organised, all in a high-quality EVA material case with scratch protection and shockproofing.

Check out the iMangoo Shockproof Carry Case  on Amazon.

37. Solar Panel for Your Backpack

You can expect to be outdoors a lot while travelling, especially in New Zealand, so energy has never been so easy (and free and green)! Charge your phone or camera on the go with one of Sunnybag’s Portable Solar Panels which effortlessly straps to the back of your day pack and connects straight to your device. Genius!

Check out the Sunnybag Portable Solar Panel  on Amazon.

38. Trunkie Ride-On Suitcase

Travelling with tired toddlers is never fun, but this child-friendly carry-on certainly is! Keep children entertained through the otherwise arduous airport process with the Trunkie Ride-On Suitcase . The multi-functional strap allows parents to tow tired kids or throw the small suitcase over their shoulder if in a bit more of a rush. For more airport tips, head to the  30 Airport Hacks That Will Change The Way You Travel Forever .

Check out the Trunkie Ride-On Suitcase  on Amazon.

39. SnoozeShade Blackout Tent

Help stick to the routine while travelling with the SnoozeShade Blackout Tent . The crib and pack ‘n play canopy is said to block 94% of light with side panels to adjust the light levels to suit your little one. The tent fits all rectangular travel cribs and pack ‘n plays with no complicated attachments. Made with a polyester mesh, the tent is safety tested and breathable.

Check out the SnoozeShade Blackout Tent  on Amazon.

40. Personalised Leather Luggage Tags, Passport Covers, etc.

If you’re looking for the perfect travel gift with a touch of class, this is it. PEGAI make a range of travel accessories made with soft-touch rustic leather with your chosen fire-branded initials. Choose from passport holders, luggage tags, toiletry bags, phone cases and much more. Check out more travel gifts in the  30 Best Travel Gifts for Backpackers .

Check out the PEGAI Store  on Amazon.

41. Water Bladder

Water on the go is a major issue for active travellers. While tap water is perfectly drinkable in New Zealand, it is always a pain to have to carry bulky water bottles when hiking to a mountaintop. CamelBak is the market leader in water bladders that effortlessly integrate into hiking backpacks and link to a tube that makes drinking while hiking a breeze. Use it once and you’ll never hike without one!

Check out the CamelBak Store  on Amazon.

42. Waterproof Phone Pouch

Ideal for camping, hiking or heading to destinations with water activities at the fore (have you checked out our travel guides to Fiji , Samoa , Tonga , Niue and the Cook Islands ?), these Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouches provide the ultimate peace of mind. The two-pack pouches (for you and a friend) are certified IPX8 waterproof with a triple-layer lock-down seal that provides complete protection against water, snow, dust and sand.

Check out the Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouches  on Amazon.

43. Car Cup Charger

Replace the old McDonald’s soda cup with the smartest thing that has ever been in your car (or rental car’s) cup holder. You never know when will be the next time you’ll get the opportunity to charge your phone, camera, etc., especially when sleeping in your car . The Skyocean Car Cup Charger has two cigarette lighter sockets, a dual USB charger and even a Bluetooth headset. What’s more, the cup displays the car’s voltage and warns you if your car battery is getting low.

Check out the Skyocean Car Cup Charger on Amazon.

44. Silicon Makeup Brush Holder

Contain the mess of makeup brushes with this one-of-a-kind Feryes Makeup Brush Holder . It is made of soft polyurethane silicon foam (the more natural form of silicon/silicone) that is skin- and environment-friendly with no silicon smell that triggers allergic reactions and doesn’t absorb dust. What’s more, the ergonomic design with side openings allows easy access to your makeup essentials!

Check out the Feryes Makeup Brush Holder  on Amazon.

45. Travel Clothesline

Forget paying for the expensive laundry service at your hotel. Handwash your clothes like a true traveller and dry them anywhere with the Junvaia Travel Clothesline . Made of a multi-strand elastic rubber band (Ok, just a bungy cord), it can be stretched up to 10 ft and hung anywhere. It also comes with 12 pegs and 13 separation beads attached.

Check out the Junvaia Travel Clothesline  on Amazon.

46. Perfume Travel Bottles

You can now carry your favourite scents in your carry-on luggage or just what you need for a trip with these Rosarden Perfume Travel Bottles . With a transparent window, you can see how much perfume remains even with the bottle capable of doing up to 70 sprays when full.

Check out the Rosarden Perfume Travel Bottles  on Amazon.

47. Document Organiser/Travel Wallet

Ensure you have all the extra essentials when you go travelling in a tri-fold document organiser and travel wallet! Choose from an array of colours in the sleek faux-leather design of the Zoppen Travel Wallet . The impressive array of compartments includes one passport pocket, one boarding pass compartment, three credit cards slots, one ID slot, one SIM card pouch, one coupon ticket slot, one phone pouch (max 14.7 cm/5.8 in), one money and coins zippered pocket, one key holder, one pen holder and one slim pocket.

Check out the Zoppen Travel Wallet  on Amazon.

48. Portable Orthopedic Seat Cushion

Hey, we’re not judging. If your tushy needs some relief, then carry it around with you with the Tektrum Portable Orthopedic Seat Cushion . The handle and foldable design makes this cool-gel seat cushion easy to carry around, providing comfort on the plane, bus, car or even at home or the office.

Check out the Tektrum Portable Orthopedic Seat Cushion on Amazon.

49. Emergency Blanket

If you’re hitting the hiking or biking trails then it’s worth adding an Emergency Blanket to your first aid kit. Should the worst happen, you’ll be thankful for this solar thermal blanket that, when folded in your backpack, you would never feel that you are carrying around with you. Check out Outdoor Safety When Hiking for more ways to keep safe in the wilderness.

Check out Emergency Blankets on Amazon.

50. Heated Camping Chair

The nights can be chilly in New Zealand whatever the season so getting any extra warmth you can when camping is extremely welcome. That’s where The Hot Seat comes in, powered by any USB power bank (see above). A simple push of a button can warm your seat up to 43°C (110°F)! For more gadgets specifically for camping, check out the  10 Best Gadgets & Accessories for Camping .

Check out The Hot Seat  on Amazon.

51. Pelican Case

The first thing to break on adventure trips is usually your $1,000 phone. If you aren’t putting it in your backpack and sitting on it, you’re dropping it down a cave or getting it splashed on a boat trip. Keep your fragile valuables safe with a Pelican case! Waterproof, dustproof, crushproof… Just try to break anything in here. White water rafting guides swear by them.

Check out the Pelican 1040 Micro Case on Amazon.

52. Laser Keyboard

Have you seen laser keyboards around for a while but couldn’t justify buying one? Well, the time has finally come! Carrying a laptop can be a pain while, on the other hand, typing long-winded messages on your phone’s tiny keypad can be more of a pain! Connect the Wireless Laser Keyboard to your phone and the problem is solved! Plus, how awesome is typing on a laser keyboard?!

Check out the Wireless Laser Keyboard on Amazon.

53. Coin Stash for SD Card

In the words of Gandalf: “Keep it secret; keep it safe!” Instead of carrying the One Ring through New Zealand, carry your SD card secretly and safely with this smart Shomer-Tec Covert Coin made to look like a simple unappealing US or Euro coin. It stops your SD card from getting scratched while keeping it in an easy-to-find place like your wallet. (Just, ya know, don’t pay with it).

Check out the Shomer-Tec Covert Coin  on Amazon.

54. Luggage Handle Wrap

Not only do luggage handle covers like this Hibate Handle Wrap provide cushion to your hands as you wheel around heavy luggage, but they make it easy to spot your luggage on the carousel. Simple yet effective strikes again!

Check out the Hibate Handle Wrap  on Amazon.

55. Wide-Angle Phone Lens

There’s a lot of epic scenery to capture on your travels, so a wide-angle lens is perfect! Many phones have wide-angle lenses already installed but if your phone is a bit old-school, you don’t have to miss out. These Criacr Wide Lenses stick to your phone using a small rubber clamp. Some even have a system to switch from a wide angle to an even wider one, making your travel shots epic !

Check out the Criacr Wide Lens on Amazon.

56. Convertible Pants

Shopping for hiking gear can be a daunting task. By trying to conciliate usability and light packing you will end up having to make many compromises. Luckily, there is one tried and tested pant design for travellers that still works as well as it did since its inception: the convertible pants! The pants/shorts or zippable pant-shorts, whatever you want to call them, are a travel gadget built for versatility against the ever-changing weather and save you packing two items. You’ll find many options, but we like (and use) the ones from Columbia .

Check out the Columbia Convertible Pants   on Amazon.

57. Headlamp

A travel gadget that we all take for granted, a headtorch/headlamp is essential for camping, multi-day hiking, caving and more. With the availability of high-intensity LEDs at a very affordable price, getting a powerful torch/flashlight has never been cheaper. The Juninp Rechargeable Headlamp is a good way to go. Whatever you choose, be sure to check that the torch you purchase actually has good lighting by comparing the lumens: the higher the better.

Check out the Juninp Rechargeable Headlamp   on Amazon.

58. Collapsible Bowls and Food Storage

Grab your bowl or container and shake it into shape. Serve, eat, clean and fold it back into a small travel-sized piece of silicone. Collapsible bowls like Cartints are perfect to take meals anywhere, from the lakeshore to a snowy peak. You don’t even need to be hiking, as this travel gadget is also a must-have for budget travellers preparing their own lunch. Get inspired for some recipes in  5 Easy Pasta Recipes for Backpackers or   10 Easy Meals to Cook in a Hostel in 10 Minutes .

Check out the Cartints Store   on Amazon.

59. Reusable Earplugs or Noise-Cancelling Earphones

Cheap and incredibly useful, earplugs are a must-have for light sleepers and backpackers, such as these Loop Reusable Earplugs . Hostel rooms are shared between four to 10 people and it can get pretty noisy at night, especially with that token snorer. Invest in reusable earplugs or noise-cancelling earphones, like Beats Studio Buds that have an “Active Noise Cancelling Mode” and “Transparency Mode”, to guarantee yourself a peaceful night. Make sure to get some comfortable ones, which will make a world of difference.

Check out the Loop Reusable Earplugs and Beats Studio Buds on Amazon.

60. E-Reader

On a rainy day or a long-haul flight, there is nothing better than crawling up with a good book. Well… books are heavy and therefore not really travel-friendly. If you do not have a tablet or don’t like the idea of an e-reader app on your phone, look into e-readers so you can carry thousands of books with you at all times. We suggest you purchase the Lord of The Rings trilogy for your trip to New Zealand to get you into the Middle-earth spirit!

For under $140, get the market leader Kindle for huge compatibility or download the Free Kindle App to get access to a huge range of e-books right on your phone. Consider also trying Kindle Unlimited for free for 30 days to get unlimited books and audiobooks during your flight.

61. Wireless Amplifier USB Adapter

Get that WiFi! The built-in WiFi antenna in most laptops has quite a short range and is not as powerful as desktops. To get as much range as possible when on the road, get yourself a WiFi amplifier. Plug it into a USB port on your laptop and you will be laughing! We recommend the Nineplus 1200Mbps Dual 5Dbi Antennas 5G/2.4G WiFi Adapter for Windows.

Check out the Nineplus WiFi Adapter  on Amazon.

A mouldable glue that turns into rubber, Sugru can be used to fix or modify just about anything. If your hiking shoes break, just stick some Sugru in there. If your cables start to come loose, Sugru them back together. Just get creative!

Check out the Sugru by Tesa Store  on Amazon.

63. Leak Proofing Sleeves

If you’re more into shoving shampoo bottles into your suitcase than some of the other solutions mentioned on this list of travel gadgets and accessories, then ensure the inevitable shampoo explosion during your flight is contained with these Nelshp Leak Proofing Sleeves . Super small yet made with stretchy high-resilient silicone, these sleeves are perfect for travel.

Check out Nelshp Leak Proofing Sleeves  on Amazon.

64. Urinal Funnel

Speaking of leaks, make sure you can spring a leak anywhere, even if God didn’t design it that way, with EllaPee ! Yes, it’s what it looks like; a device to help women pee while standing up so you don’t have to worry about squatting over unsanitary toilets or in the bush. You can even keep your pants on while using it; we challenge you!

Check out EllaPee on Amazon.

65. Water Socks

Explore the coast, rivers and lakes without hurting your delicate feet with some water socks! Amazon goes nuts for these, so you can have a lot of fun selecting funky colours and designs. We like these simple Athmile Water Shoes which have flexible, breathable and quick-dry fabric on top and a protective rubber sole on the bottom.

Check out Athmile Water Shoes on Amazon.

More Genius Travel Gadgets and Accessories

That’s it for our mega list of the best travel gadgets and accessories. If, for some insane reason, you want to look at more handy travel items, then let us set you loose on these:

• 20 Best Travel Board Games (for New Zealand & Other Places)
• The Best Eco-Friendly Backpacks for New Zealand
• 15 Essentials to Pack for a New Zealand Campervan Trip

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in the 30 Best Travel Gifts for Backpackers .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Customs Service (Customs and Biosecurity - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD online platform - Updated [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
• Stats NZ (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2024])
• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and approved by Robin, who is the co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. With more than 15 years of experience in the New Zealand tourism industry, Robin has co-founded three influential tourism businesses and five additional travel guides for South Pacific nations. He is an expert in New Zealand travel and has tested over 600 activities and 300+ accommodations across the country.

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28 Top New Zealand Packing List for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT To Bring

New Zealand is famous for its stunning mountains, beautiful beaches, and greener-than-green native forests. Known as ‘Middle Earth’ in the Lord of The Rings trilogy, it is a diverse country with mystical landscapes that almost feel otherworldly.

NZ spans several climate “zones,” so it can be a surprisingly tough place to pack for (there are not many places where you can go skiing in the morning and surfing in the afternoon!) To get the most out of your trip, it’s best to pack for ALL seasons.

Below you’ll find a list of items I highly recommend, a section on  what to wear in New Zealand , what NOT to bring, and other FAQs. Enjoy your travels to Kiwiland!

What to Pack for New Zealand – 28 Essentials

1. neck wallet.

After having some scares with misplacing valuables while jet-lagged, I never make long-distance trips without my neck wallet. This is especially important for New Zealand since the travel time is typically so loooong. When you’re a tired tourist getting off the plane into a new city, you have a target on the back of your head that pickpockets can spot from a mile away. But with a neck wallet, it’s practically impossible for thieves to steal since you can keep your passport, phone, credit cards, and cash all concealed under your clothing. This one also has RFID-blocking material to prevent e-thieves from scanning your bag.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Jet Lag Relief (Natural)

It’s a lengthy trip to New Zealand from the States (roughly 13-18 hours with a non-stop commute), and the time change is fairly significant. Travel days are hard enough without jet lag adding to your stress, so gameplan smarter with these natural jet-lag tablets. They’re actually MADE in New Zealand but sold worldwide. Formulated with botanical ingredients like chamomile and daisy flowers, they’ve noticeably impacted my energy levels while traveling and I can’t recommend them enough.

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

The risk of cyberattacks is steadily going up and hackers will take some extreme measures to obtain your personal info. A VPN adds an additional layer of security to your browsing and data to help protect you from identity theft or other hacking issues. If I’d used one in Paris when I traveled there recently, I would have avoided having my credit card information stolen … This is more common than you think when using free Wi-Fi networks at cafes, hotels, Airbnbs, airports, and more .

A VPN also allows you to browse the internet despite restrictions and any country-specific censorship, so it’s one of the smartest subscriptions you can have if you travel at all – and also one of the cheapest. Bonus tip: It will get you deals on flights and certain websites since they can’t track your IP address or price-gouge you based on location! We use our VPN at home and every time we travel.

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. NZ Power Adapter

Since NZ has a different outlet type than most countries, you will need to bring a power adapter. Make sure you choose a high-quality one with fuse protection that prevents your devices from getting fried – you don’t want to risk damaging your phone, laptop, kindle, camera, or any other precious device. This adapter is our go-to because it works in over 100 popular countries and comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee.

5. Water-Resistant Travel Backpack

You’re definitely going to want to bring a day bag of some kind, and a backpack-style bag will save your back and shoulders a lot of tension and pain. This one is large enough to hold the daily essentials – water bottle, rain jacket, money, passport, camera, etc. – but also lightweight enough to keep from adding to your already heavy travel load. It’s comfortable to carry since it’s made for exploring and compacts down into a small rectangular pouch when you don’t need it.

6. Travel Insurance For New Zealand

One of the biggest mistakes I see travelers make is overlooking travel insurance. Your health insurance does not extend to medical incidents that occur while abroad, so you could be left paying out-of-pocket for extremely high hospital bills. This includes Medicare and Medicaid, which only cover you domestically.

Don’t leave yourself vulnerable to potentially five-figure expenses that are mitigated with an affordable plan. It will also cover common travel issues like baggage loss, flight delays, cancelations, theft, evacuations, and more. We recommend Faye Travel Insurance to find the plan that best suits your needs. They handle everything through their mobile app so you can get reimbursed faster (without all the drudgery and paperwork!) We’re thrilled that they offer the ability to cancel your trip “ for any reason ,” which we’ve taken them up on once when we had to postpone our vacation!

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

7. Packing Cubes

Organization is one of the keys to an elevated traveling experience, and it doesn’t get much more organized than packing cubes. Once you travel with them, you won’t want to suffer through another discombobulated suitcase or dig around to find basic things ever again.

These luxury organizers have labels on each cube, a variety of sizes, and several colors for each family member. They make packing much easier, as well as transferring items to and from your daybag. The bonus laundry bags seriously sweeten the deal!

8. Luggage Straps

I wouldn’t send my bag halfway around the world without attaching these luggage straps. They can be doubled-up to reinforce your bags, ensuring nothing breaks open mid-transit. This happened to a friend of mine whose case fell apart due to the rough baggage handling for international flights. We used these adjustable belts to finagle it together and successfully get to the next flight! Now, I never travel without them.

Besides the obvious zipper reinforcement that compensates for any overpacking, my favorite perk is quickly finding your bags at the chaotic arrivals terminal. The colors stand out from across the room, even in a crowd of generic-looking bags. These have saved us on numerous occasions and probably will going forward – especially since they have a built-in contact card for easy identification if my bag goes missing.

9. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

A small portable charger is always wise when traveling, especially since you might be at the beach, exploring cities like Auckland and Queenstown, or hiking through the wilderness with no power outlets nearby. This charger is the size of a lipstick tube and holds multiple charges so you can power all of your devices while on the go. You’ll be thankful to have navigation and internet access in case of an emergency. We never travel without it.

10. Windproof Travel Umbrella

New Zealand demands a trustworthy travel umbrella. Weather varies from region to region, and you never know when you’ll need to ward off a sudden rainfall. This umbrella is especially nice because it’s windproof and large enough for two people yet still lightweight and compact. The carrying case is a useful accessory so you can store a wet umbrella in your bag once grey clouds have passed.

11. Hanging Toiletry Bag

Wanderlust involves lugging around a lot of toiletries, skincare, and styling items – while running the risk that liquids are going to explode all over your suitcase. Maintain your routine (and your sanity!) by packing every liquid in this hanging toiletries bag. It hooks onto any door, shower pole, branch, etc., and really saves the day when countertop space is limited.

This one by Eco Sun comes with a lifetime happiness guarantee so you are sure to fall in love. It holds way more products than I would’ve guessed, almost giving you a shelf-like system in your home away from home. P.S. I haven’t had any spills since purchasing this because everything is so tightly and compactly stored. Intuitive organization is HERE and everything is at eye-leve babyl, woo-hoo!

12. Waterproof Hiking Shoes

With glaciers, national parks, and sweeping cities to explore, you will be doing a considerable amount of walking. It’s best to have sturdy, broken-in hiking shoes for New Zealand so that you don’t risk hurting your feet or ankles hiking in regular sneakers. This pair is waterproof and the brand is known for its comfort and durability. I’ve used them to trek through dozens of countries and they haven’t failed me yet!

13. Compression Flight Socks

If you’re in good shape, you may be thinking, “compression socks, really?!” But let me tell you that flying for 15-20 hours, possibly 25-30 if you have layovers or stops, makes anyone’s ankles swell (no matter your age or how many hours you spend at CrossFit). Blood clots are more common on long flights which is why flight attendants commonly wear compression socks or stockings. They will help you maintain blood flow and increase circulation in your legs and feet, all while reducing the potential for pain or swelling so you don’t feel like the marshmallow man when you touch down.

14. Universal Waterproof Phone Case

Whether you’re horseback riding along the white-sand shores of Northland, boating through the glow worm caves, or hiking through the river valleys – your phone will need protection from the elements. This phone case has been a miracle worker for my family, saving our phones on multiple occasions and still allowing us to record underwater videos when snorkeling.

15. Discounted Tickets for New Zealand Attractions

There are so many awe-inspiring things to do in New Zealand, and you’ll want to experience everything this destination has to offer. Visit the Lord of The Rings Hobbit house , take a rapid’s adventure down the Waikato River, and get closer to nature at the underwater observatory .

Foodies will love the Queenstown BBQ tour , while adventurers may opt for a glacier and helicopter tour or boating through the enchanting glow worm caves. We also recommend day trips to majestic Milford Sound and the lush wineries of Waiheke Island .

Get Your Guide is our preferred booking service for the best that a destination has to offer. They allow cancellations up to 24-hours notice of your activity, making it easy to shape-shift your itinerary and remain adaptable if plans change.

See all New Zealand attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

16. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

When traveling internationally, you should play it safe and always secure your luggage with luggage locks. You never know who’s coming in contact with your bags, especially when they’re checked for international travel. I like this set because they are TSA-approved and made by a reputable travel brand. They’re 10x harder to crack than a typical 3-digit lock, so I use them for suitcases, lockers, hotels, and on my backpack when exploring crowded areas that are preyed upon by sticky fingers.

17. Dry Bag

New Zealand has more ways to soak your belongings than you might imagine. With boat cruises, snorkeling, diving, river rafting, and everything in between – you should invest in an inexpensive dry bag. You don’t want to watch your cash crumble into a ball of nothingness, trust us. We’ve used this bag for tubing down the river and to combat the wet floorboards of dingy boats. It’s been submerged a few times and everything comes out 100% dry.

18. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

Carrying a portable towel with you is always handy since you never know when you’ll need to dry off while adventuring. It’s also good to bear in mind that some accommodations may not provide towels, so having a quick-drying one like this is a good solution. It can be carried easily in your daybag and will be much lighter than bulky ones that can get in the way during extensive hikes. Plus, it dries 10x faster than cotton and is incredibly soft too.

19. Stylish Warm Jacket

New Zealand is a magical land where you can be freezing on a glacier in one moment and then sunbathing at a tropical beach by the next. The climate varies WILDLY and their seasons are opposite of the U.S. (most travelers know that June/July is peak travel season for American tourists when kids get out of school. But for NZ, this is the peak of winter and the coldest time of the year!) The secret to success will be layering and preparing for rapidly-changing weather conditions. This warm jacket is a safe bet because it’s fast-drying, lightweight, and mega stylish.

20. Touchscreen-Friendly Gloves

Spare your hands from the cold with sleek winter gloves. These offer the best of both worlds – thermal protection and the ability to wick away moisture. For outdoor activities or driving in harsh sunlight, these gloves are lightweight, soft, and still allow you to use the touchscreen on your phone. The palms have a non-slip silicone material that makes them great for thrillseekers, bikers, etc.

21. Wool Headband

Regardless of the season, a warm headband will be of great comfort to you in New Zealand. We lose heat through our heads, so a wrap will keep you feeling toasty even during chilly activities like whale-watching or snowboarding down Mount Ruapehu. Even in the summer, temperatures are colder in the south and you will appreciate having a cozy accessory. This brand support working mothers in Nepal, honoring 1,000 years of complex weaving technique that’s been passed on for generations.

22. Activated Charcoal (Food Poisoning Fix)

Almost every traveler I know has experienced some kind of stomach upset – most frequently Traveler’s Diarrhea – as a result of long journeys, new foods, and the general physical stress of traveling. Activated charcoal has provided me quite a lot of relief, and now I take it with me wherever I go (I even use it at home if need be!) It absorbs toxins in your system if there are any, and it helps return your digestion to normal so that you can go on enjoying your trip instead of feeling unwell.

23. Deet-Free Mosquito Wristbands

Let’s be honest… The mosquitos and sandflies of NZ are a nuisance ! Although there are no insect-related diseases in the country, the bites are still itchy, annoying, and uncomfortable. We buy these wristbands for our family because they’re deet-free and non-toxic; it’s also much more convenient than constantly spraying and respraying those strong nasty fumes. Made with essential oils like citronella and lemongrass, these wristbands deter bugs the natural way and in my experience, provide the most effective defense.

24. Water Bottle With Built-In Filter

You’re not going to have a hard time finding safe water to drink in New Zealand, but if you’re doing a day hike and need some water from a mountain stream, this is a great way to be sure it’s safe to drink. Opting for a filtered water bottle is a smart precaution because you’ll have an easy and free way to stay hydrated without having to purchase plastic water bottles. It will reduce the taste of heavy chlorine purification and filter out bacteria, sand, and sediment.

25. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

Shopping in New Zealand is not to be missed – with predominantly European and indigenous Māori influence, the culture of NZ is distinct and deliciously collectible. This ‘just in case’ bag is a great pack-along for those purchases you may make. It takes up zero space when empty but can serve as your carry-on item for the flight home that fits under your plane seat.

Fill it up with goodies and handmade gifts that your loved ones will treasure – some local goods we recommend are: Merino wool, Māori crafts, jade necklaces, Tuatara coffee, Manuka honey, woodwork, and LOTR memorability.

26. Quick-Dry Convertible Pants/Shorts

This is an item I bring on all trips that involve hiking, simply because I often start activities in the morning when it’s cooler, and finish the day when it’s later and much warmer. The transition from cold weather to warm weather is super easy when you can zip off part of your pants to make them into breathable and lightweight shorts. These pants are also quick-drying, a necessary bonus when you’re in humid or water-rich areas.

27. "Gumboots" (AKA Rain Boots)

Rubber boots (known as ‘gumboots’ in NZ) will add convenience to your adventures through the many terrains of Middle Earth. Most people don’t realize that it rains nearly as much in NZ as in the UK, so you’ll need a pair of shoes that function in rain, snow, and mud to keep your feet dry. There’s a reason the locals refer to gumboots as ‘essential footwear’ – they will save you in a surprise downpour! This brand is very cute and has many beautiful designs to choose from.

28. Gorgeous Jumpsuit

Last but not least, any getaway calls for a stunning outfit. Your sundress or beachwear won’t quite cut it for nights out on the town, so try this chic jumpsuit that feels modern yet classic all at once. It’s elegant, comfortable, and complements many body types because it cinches at the waist but flairs out around the hips. This gives it a very relaxed (almost dress-like) style that’s undeniably timeless.

Other NZ Packing List Items Not to Forget

• Travel Insurance
• Facial cleansing/travel wipes
• Motion sickness patches
• Steripod toothbrush cover
• Toiletry bag
• Vitamins and/or personal medications
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Convertible Quick-Dry Pants
• Travel-sized umbrella
• Flash drive/memory card
• Combination padlock
• Flashlight/Head lamp
• Travel toilet paper
• Shoulder bag
• Travel pillow
• Travel sheet
• Underwater camera
• New Zealand power adapter
• Noise-canceling headphones
• Passport photos

What to Wear in New Zealand

Warm layers are your friend if you are planning to visit New Zealand during winter, as the South Island can drop down to 14°F! (-10°C). If you’re planning a visit in the warmer months, pack a light raincoat. It is also really important to remember your sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect your skin from the sun, as well as your swimsuit, so you can enjoy a dip in the ocean! The winters can be cold but the summers are warm and pleasant.

For a destination as diverse as New Zealand, check the weather before your departure and pack accordingly. If you’re planning lots of outdoor excursions or even hiking, ensure you pack reasonable footwear with a suitable grip. It’s also important to note, Kiwis tend to be quite laid back when it comes to their outlook on life and their style. You may notice many people not even wearing shoes, let alone dressing up for the weekend. Therefore, your fancy best heels can probably stay at home this time.

That’s not to say there’s no need to get dressed up if you’re planning fancy dinners and nights out in the city. New Zealand has so much to offer a traveler, so you’ll definitely have ample choices when it comes to activities! Nighttime does mean a drop in temperature year-round, so pack a shawl, comfy layers, and a warm scarf. What should MEN wear in New Zealand? – (Click to expand) Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Dressing for the Seasons in New Zealand

Spring – september, october, november.

New Zealand during Spring for most of the day is warm, but expect chilly mornings and evenings. You may find the days pleasant enough, especially if you are from somewhere colder. Be ready to layer up and for the temperature to change quickly. It is always handy to have a sweater and extra layer for the evening as night time sees a drop in temperature. Definitely pack a light coat .

Average daytime temperature: 61 – 66˚F (16 – 19˚C).

SUMMER – December, January and February

These are the hottest months in New Zealand. Remember to pack your sunscreen and other sun protection such as hats and sunglasses .

Remember to cover body parts after sun exposure to avoid damage and use after sun. Swimsuits perfect for these months, as well as shorts , t-shirts , dresses . It may be advisable to carry light layer in the evening.

FALL – March, April, May

Fall in New Zealand will be chilly and sunny in the daytime, with a sense of the Winter months approaching and a drop in temperature, particularly at night. It is important to pack cozy layers , something warm to sleep in and lighter layers for the daytime. You may wake up to really cold mornings. Prepare for all weathers here, but for the most part it will be cold.

Average daytime temperature: 62 – 70˚F (17 – 21˚C).

WINTER – June, July, August

Winter sees the average temperature in New Zealand drop. The South Island can drop down to 14°F! (-10°C) Wear a coat , pack layers including moisture-wicking shirts and even thermal leggings to go under pants . There’s a chance of it being particularly cold, so remember a scarf , a warm hat , and gloves !

Beaches: Normal beach attire is most welcomed and suitable here. New Zealand has some diverse and beautiful beaches. If you are planning on doing water sports or surfing, a wetsuit may be advisable to protect your skin from the cold water.

What NOT To Take to New Zealand

1. don’t pack your own sunscreen.

It just takes up valuable packing space. Yes, it’s ABSOLUTELY crucial to wear sunscreen while in New Zealand as the sun’s rays are much stronger there. But sunscreen can be found anywhere, and it’s pretty affordable in any pharmacy or supermarket, so don’t bother bringing your own.

2. DON’T BRING too much clothing

and especially not fancy clothes. You won’t need a lot of clothing anyway, and New Zealand is not the place to dress up. Avoid bringing anything too nice – you’ll probably just get it dirty, anyway. DO bring layers that you can mix and match, and outfits that can easily go from warm to chilly.

3. DON’T TAKE extra electronics

It’s both a packing no-no and a security issue (yes, crime exists in NZ too!). You don’t want to schlep all of that extra weight around, and you REALLY don’t want your electronics stolen or damaged. There’s plenty to entertain you in NZ without them.

4. DON’T PACK heavy books

Or, honestly, any books except ones you need to navigate and explore NZ. Books are delightful, but heavy and bulky, which your back will not thank you for. If you haven’t already, update your library with a  Kindle  or similar e-reader, and bring that instead.

5. DON’T TAKE lots of cash

Another security issue. You don’t want to attract any unwanted attention, and cash is an unfortunate beacon for petty criminals. ATMs are everywhere in NZ, and they’re not usually any more expensive than in the States, so you’ll be able to get small amounts of cash when you need it.

6. DON’T BRING expensive or valuable jewelry

The theme here is not to take anything you’d be sad to see lost, stolen, or destroyed. You really won’t need decorative accessories in New Zealand – most of your activities will be outdoorsy and a little on the rugged side.

Fancy, elegant, expensive clothing For the most part, leave your precious clothing at home – the exception being if you are planning very extravagant nights out. Opt for clothing practical for your activities that you wouldn’t mind getting dirty.

Expensive Jewellery Do not wear expensive, eye-catching jewelry. As with everywhere else in the world, flashy things like this will only attract pickpockets and thieves. Trying to minimize the risks to yourself and your belongings is always best, no matter where you’re traveling.

FAQs about travel in New Zealand

1. is nz tap water safe to drink.

Yes! Tap water is perfectly safe, although the water in many cities tastes a little unpleasant due to treatment. Mineral water is available in all supermarkets and dairies, or you can bring your own filtered water bottle with you so that your water is always fresh.

2. What is the cheapest way to get around New Zealand?

There are several options for traveling NZ on a budget, including:

• Campervans. Buying or renting a van means you save on accommodation and get to travel at your own pace. There are hundreds of campervan parks around NZ, and in some places you can  freedom camp .
• Bus: Lots of budget options with companies that run services that cover all of NZ, or hop-on/hop-off tours.
• Train: Although not a common way to travel due to the expense, the Tranz Alpine train journey is one of the most beautiful in the world.

3. Do I need to tip in restaurants?

Tipping isn’t expected in New Zealand. If you’re impressed by a particular staff member, then go ahead and tip if you want to, but many establishments require staff to pool any tips so that they can be shared equally. You may even see a “Tip Jar” on the counter, but again, it’s up to you to put something into it.

4. How safe is it to go hiking in NZ?

Hiking is as safe as long as you’re prepared!

Most hiking tracks will have a sign posted at the start which tells you how long it will take and the grade of difficulty, so you should know what to expect.

In any case, you should check the details with a local information centre or on the  Department of Conservation  website beforehand. Always take sufficient gear and ALWAYS tell someone when and where you’re going.

5. Do I need a visa to visit NZ? Or to work in NZ?

If you are a UK citizen and/or passport holder, you can stay up to six months without a visa. If you are a citizen of a country that has a visa waiver agreement with NZ, you can stay up to three months without a visa. Otherwise, you’ll need a visitor visa, which allows you to stay for up to 9 months.

A  working holiday visa  allows you to travel and work in New Zealand for up to 12 months, or 23 months if you’re from the UK.

6. When is the best/worst time of year to visit NZ?

Depends on what you want to do in NZ! If you’re coming for beaches and bush trekking, summer is your best bet. But if you want to hit the slopes and see the wild beauty of the snow-capped Alps, you can’t miss winter. Some parts of NZ are quite wet and cold during winter, so outdoor adventures aren’t as safe or fun, but there’s always somewhere to go to escape the worst of it.

And remember – the southern hemisphere seasons are opposite to the northern hemisphere, so Christmas is in summer!

7. How can I stick to a budget while traveling NZ?

Budget travel can be tough, as New Zealand has become much more expensive in recent years. But there are still ways to see plenty on a shoestring by:

• Camping: if you don’t mind communal kitchens and a slightly cramped living space, camping is a fun and cheap way to see the country.
• Van or campervan: As above – rent or buy a campervan and your accommodation is sorted!
• Couchsurfing: Very popular in NZ with over 2000 hosts around the country.
• WWOOFing: A great way to work for your keep whilst hanging out with the locals!

8. What are some foods to try while I’m in New Zealand?

Lamb is kind of a given, considering sheep are their primary pasture animal. Roast lamb is drool-worthy and an experience you won’t want to miss.

Other, lesser-known foods to try are:

Tuatua (a soft and mild shellfish), Hāngi (A traditional Maori dish of steam-roasted veggies and meats), Fish and chips (again: FRESH, LOCAL seafood!), and NZ’s delicious offerings of wine and cheese.

9. How can I find out where to get off the beaten path?

This is best done by visiting an i-site (information center), checking out TripAdvisor or, better yet, getting to know some locals. There are many, many hidden gems in New Zealand that you won’t see on a tourist brochure – I could tell you a few just off the top of my head! Locals are only too willing to point you in the direction of a cool place.

10. Where can I go camping in NZ

There are loads of campgrounds in NZ, especially in areas near tourist attractions. Facilities in campgrounds range from cabins, TV rooms, and modern communal kitchens, to isolated paddocks with cold showers and long drops.

Freedom camping is also possible in some areas, which means you can park your van or pitch your tent and camp for the night – for free. It’s a fantastic way to explore New Zealand, BUT please  obey the rules!

Essential New Zealand Packing List & What to Wear for Every Season

New Zealand is one of the world’s top travel destinations. From the snow-dusted mountains and ancient rainforests in the South Island to the balmy beaches and geothermal wonderlands in the North Island, New Zealand is known for encapsulating all the world’s landscapes in one country.

This can make packing for your trip a challenge. It’s even more of a challenge if you’re traveling to both the North Island and the South Island, as they couldn’t be more different than night and day.

That’s why we’ve created a New Zealand packing list and a guide on what to wear in New Zealand .

You can also download and print this New Zealand packing checklist .

New Zealand Packing List Essentials

• Travel Documents – Always know where your travel documents are and keep photocopies of them in case anything happens. One of our favorite tips is to keep online copies of travel documents. Simply email copies of your passport, trip vouchers, flight confirmations, etc. to yourself, giving you the ability to access your documents wherever you can log in to your email. This can be a lifesaver, even if you lose your phone!

Download and print this New Zealand packing checklist.

Clothes Packing List: What to Wear in New Zealand

Figuring out what to wear in New Zealand can be a bit challenging. Sunny beach days are common at the top of the North Island, yet its urban cities often see changeable weather with winds and rains. The South Island is home to the sunniest regions in New Zealand, yet its mountains accumulate snow and cold weather the further south you go.

This is why we’ve made it simple with our guide on what to pack for New Zealand based on each island and season.

Coromandel, North Island. Photo: Adam Bryce

Summer (December, January, February)

These are New Zealand’s warmest months of the whole year, with temperatures averaging between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. During this time, daylight can last until 10pm, so be sure to keep up with sunscreen!

North Island

Northernmost regions such as Cape Reinga, Bay of Islands and the Coromandel enjoy subtropical weather. Think balmy sunshine, warm golden beaches and inviting bays. Summery clothes with a light jacket for any sudden changes in weather are ideal.

You may want to pack your swimwear and jandals (New Zealand’s word for flip flops!) if you fancy a dip at the beach. Sunhats and sunglasses are also great sun protection.

For more urban areas including Auckland, Rotorua and Wellington, comfortable walking shoes are a must. You might like to bring some dressier clothes for nights out in the cities. Don’t forget a rain jacket and cardigans or sweaters for the cooler mornings and evenings. Pants or trousers are recommended over shorts, but for any outdoor activities such as hikes or beach days, shorts are fine.

South Island

Nelson is one of New Zealand’s sunniest regions, so sunhats and sunglasses are essential. Summer clothes are perfect, with cardigans or light jackets for the evenings and cool mornings.

The further south you travel, the lower the temperatures drop. Christchurch sees temperatures in the low 60’s, so pack thin layers with a sweater or light jacket. In southernmost destinations such as Queenstown and Dunedin, bring light layers you can mix and match, with a sweater or light jacket.

Canterbury, South Island. Photo: Fred Rood and Elite Images

Fall (March, April, May)

Cooler temperatures create perfect conditions for outdoor activities with a gorgeous setting. Colorful changing leaves, tufts of gold and orange, snowy peaks in the distance – autumn in New Zealand will take your breath away. With less crowds and temperatures averaging between 45 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, this is one of our favorite season to go to New Zealand.

Cold mornings and evenings are common, with sunshine during the day. It’s important to pack cozy clothes you can layer up or down as the day goes by, with a jacket to keep warm against any drops in temperature.

A rain jacket is a must, as this is when rains start to pick up in major cities such as Auckland and Wellington.

The South Island is where you’ll see those changing autumn colors. Comfortable layers with a warm sweater or jacket will keep you most comfortable. Boots or comfortable walking shoes will keep your feet sheltered from the elements.

Queenstown, South Island. Photo: Skyline Queenstown

Winter (June, July, August)

Winter in New Zealand brings cooler temperatures averaging between 35 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The one essential item you need to pack for winter in New Zealand is a raincoat, as these months see the most rain.

Winter is temperate enough to explore the northernmost region of the island on hikes and scenic walks. Warm layers, a cardigan or sweater, and a light jacket will be enough to get you through the day. Bring a warm jacket for the cold mornings and evenings, especially in major cities.

July is the wettest month, so apart from a rain jacket you might also want to bring an umbrella.

The mountain ranges are blanketed with fresh snow, making for stunning views. Frosts and heavy snowfall are common, so warm layers, sweaters and jackets are recommended. You might like to bring scarfs, gloves or hats to help protect you from the cold in wilderness areas such as national parks, the glaciers and fiords.

Bay of Islands, North Island. Photo: Alistair Guthrie

Spring (September, October, November)

Blossoming trees, cascading waterfalls and colorful blooms – New Zealand in spring is a wonderful time to visit. Keep in mind the average temperatures for your New Zealand packing list in spring, ranging between 40 – 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

Warm sunny days gave way to crisp evenings, so definitely pack a sweater or light jacket. Thin layers you can mix and match are highly recommended, keeping you prepared for any sudden drops in temperature. If you can easily withstand cooler temperatures, one layer and a light jacket will be just fine.

One basic jacket or coat and versatile layers are perfect for South Island destinations. A warm sweater with a light jacket is also a good alternative. Keep in mind that mornings and evenings can still get quite cold. If you’re traveling along the west coast to the glaciers or Mount Cook, be sure you’re prepared for rain.

No matter what time of the year you’re visiting New Zealand, it’s always important to use sunscreen – yes, even in the winter!

Now that you know what to pack for New Zealand, you’re ready to enjoy the trip of a lifetime!

Safe travels from your mates at About New Zealand!

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New Zealand Travel Guide

Welcome to the “Adventure Capital of the World”! In New Zealand, you can go caving, hiking, skydiving, skiing, climbing, bungy jumping, jet boating, swimming with dolphins, and camping… just to name a few of the heart-pumping activities you’ll find! Everywhere you look, there’s jaw-dropping landscapes and adventures to be had. Welcome to the real Middle Earth.

If you are planning a trip to New Zealand, this travel guide has everything you need to know. Plus, scroll all the way down to the bottom of the page, and you’ll see all of our New Zealand articles!

But first, don’t miss your chance to download our perfect 30-day New Zealand road trip itinerary !

New Zealand Travel Guide Contents

Important Info    |    Best Time to Visit    |    Things to Do    |    What to Eat    |    Typical Budget

Travel Tips    |    What to Pack    |    New Zealand Articles    |    Book Now

Important Information about New Zealand

Visas/Documentation Needed to Enter New Zealand: Okay, so they don’t exactly call it a “visa”, but as of October 1st, 2019 you need to pay enter New Zealand. Please apply on the New Zealand Government website or using their free mobile app . The two fees you need to pay before entering NZ are below. You can take care of both of these fees by following the link we provided.

New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA): cost $9 NZD on the official app or $12 NZD on a browser.

International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL): Costs $35 NZD for each person entering New Zealand. The fees will be put toward conservation of New Zealand’s land and nature as well as tourism infrastructure. Citizens of Australia and some South Pacific Islands are exempt.

New Zealand at a Glance: What’s not to love about New Zealand? It has white snow capped mountains, creaking glaciers, silent lakes, thunderous waves, black sandy beaches and smoking volcanoes – almost everything that makes a picturesque paradise.

Currency in New Zealand: New Zealand Dollar | 2022 Conversion Rate: 1 NZD = $0.58 USD

Tipping in New Zealand: While tipping is common in other parts of the world, it isn’t so much in New Zealand. You don’t need to leave a tip in restaurants but if you feel the service was excellent, a 10% gratuity is sufficient. For taxi drivers, you can simply leave your change as it is not common practice to tip taxi drivers. In hotels, tipping $1-$2 per bag and $1-$5 for maid/room service is seen as a nice gesture. Tipping tour guides are more common since their services are mainly for tourists. While tipping is not necessary, you can tip your guide a few dollars if you feel that they did an excellent job.

Language & Helpful Phrases: English… but Kiwi English . What do we mean? Well, here are a few Kiwi phrases that will help you get around New Zealand:

Kia ora: This is the Māori word for “welcome”, and you will hear it everywhere!

Sweet as: Pretty cool, sweet, or a nicer way to “sweet as F#@%!”

Togs: Swimsuit

Dairy: Corner store, typically serves milkshakes

Jandals: Flip flops/sandals

Tramping: Hiking (longer hikes when you plan to stay overnight)

Religion and Culture: The Maori people and different European heritages have greatly influenced the religion and culture of New Zealand. Nowadays, the country has a multicultural society with all sorts of religions: Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, and Traditional Maori religion.

Transportation around New Zealand: The main form of public transportation in New Zealand is via bus. The main cities, Auckland and Wellington, have suburban rail systems and ferries. The best way to get around is to rent your own campervan , which gives you a ton more freedom.

Psst! Read up on the things to know before traveling to New Zealand . 

Most popular places to visit in New Zealand:

Fiordland – This is one of the most scenic spots in the country. It offers incredible hikes, cruises on amazing fjords, and beautiful waterfalls. The biggest attraction here is the Milford Sound.

Tongariro National Park – Tongariro is New Zealand’s first national park and is well known for its extremes and surprises. You will find here active volcanoes, untamed forests, herb fields, tranquil lakes, desert-like plateaus, and one of the most epic hikes we’ve every been on.

Queenstown – For people looking for some adventure and adrenaline, Queenstown is paradise. With the surrounding Southern Alps and blue Lake Wakatipu, this place is a picture perfect spot.

Auckland – As the largest city in the country, Auckland has fun and quirky neighborhoods and many things to do.

Wellington – The country’s capital city has a growing craft beer scene, a lively nightlife, and lots of pretty sights. Known as being the southernmost capital city, this hipster hotspot makes a good stop on your New Zealand itinerary.

Coromandel Peninsula – For water sports, sailing, and fishing. You can also go scuba diving in this gorgeous region. And there are plenty of things to do inland too, like the Pinnacles Hut hike and incredible waterfalls to chase!

Other popular spots include:

Waiheke Island

Christchurch

Glacier Country

Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Abel Tasman National Park

Franz Josef Glacier

Marlborough wine region

Wondering how to fit all this into one trip? We’ve got you covered! We’ve created the perfect customizable New Zealand Itinerary for a one-month road trip.

Best Time To Visit New Zealand

Climate in new zealand.

Since New Zealand is located in the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are a bit different than what Americans and Europeans are used to. While it’s snowing in the United States, it’s summer in New Zealand.

Summer: December to February (Peak Season)

Fall: March to May

Winter: June to August

Spring: September to November

Peak season for tourists is summer. It is the busiest time of the year and the most crowded so expect that prices are a little bit higher than other months.

Times to avoid traveling in New Zealand

There’s no bad time to go to New Zealand. But if you don’t like the snow and the cold, avoid visiting in the winter. Also, try to avoid New Zealand during early January. Most of the locals go for a vacation. A lot of cafes and restaurants are shut down.

Still can’t decide when to travel? We’ve broken down the very best times to visit New Zealand so the hard work is done for you!

Major Festivals in New Zealand

Pasifika Cultural Festival, March: Have a fantastic weekend filled with dance, arts, food and music at Auckland’s Pasifika Festival.

Auckland Lantern Festival, February/March: This is a popular event where lanterns lit up the Albert Park. Don’t miss the live music, delicious Chinese cuisine, fireworks, dance, and martial arts.

Parihaka Peace Festival, January: If you want to listen to the top Kiwi Music performers, Parihaka Peace Festival is just for you. Coupled with arts, crafts, food, and a film festival, this is a must-visit festival in New Zealand.

*These festivals follow the Lunar calendar, so the exact dates vary each year

Top Things to Do in New Zealand

Learn about maori culture.

Around 700 years ago, the Māori people discovered and settled in New Zealand. The Māori culture has been a great influence on what New Zealand is today. You can find local Māori guides who will show you how their culture is surviving in modern times. In the town of Rotorua, there are living Māori villages, cultural dinners and dances you can attend.

Go Kayaking

With the amazing wildlife and stunning scenery, kayaking in New Zealand is a mind-blowing experience. You can try paddling in islands around the North Island or through the Fiordland.

Try Tramping

There’s no such thing as trekking for New Zealanders. With the snow-capped mountain peaks, lakes, craters and beautiful fjordlands, New Zealanders go tramping. You can even hike to mountain huts, spend the night and return in the morning. We rounded up the best New Zealand hikes to put our your adventure bucket list. 

Explore in a Campervan

Experience the greatest sense of freedom by driving along with everything you need. There are so many hidden spots in New Zealand that can be only seen with renting a campervan . It’s definitely the best way to see the country and we have all the info you need to plan your campervan trip in New Zealand .

Visit Middle Earth

If you’re a Lord of the Rings movie fan, New Zealand is probably in your top destination for the Matamatato rolling hills. See the idyllic Hobbiton movie set and explore the 44 Hobbit holes.

Swim with dolphins

With Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura , you’ll have the opportunity to swim with these wild animals ethically, making it one of the best places to swim with dolphins in the world.

There’s so much more…  There are so many more incredible  things to do in New Zealand , we had to create an entire article about it. We’ve rounded up the top adventures, sights to see and culinary experiences so you can create your own New Zealand bucket list.

Best Food to Eat in New Zealand

New Zealand is not only famous for its stunning views but also for its delicious cuisines. As a country with thousands of kilometers of coastline, it’s not surprising that one of the most served dishes are seafood. If you’re planning a food trip in New Zealand, here are some of our favorites:

Hangi: Hangi is a traditional Maori dish that involves slow-cooked vegetables and meat in an underground oven. It is often served more often at special occasions.

Hokey Pokey Ice Cream: Who doesn’t want ice cream? New Zealand’s Hokey Pokey ice cream take the delight further with it’s caramelized honeycomb. Yum!

Crayfish: Everything seafood is delicious and Kiwi’s favorite crayfish or lobster is a must try in New Zealand!

Kina: Ever tried eating sea urchins? You should! It’s a foodie delight that New Zealanders love.

Jaffas: Here’s another sweet candy for your sweet tooths! Jaffas are chocolate balls coated with sugar. It also has an orange flavor to it. You would think the combination’s weird but its definitely heavenly!

Kiwi Burger: Burger lovers unite! The Kiwi burger is a weird and genius dish. It has fried egg and beetroot included in a typical burger. Try it once and you’ll be hooked!

Insider Tip: Happy Cow is a great resource for finding vegetarian and vegan restaurants all around the country!

Typical Budget for New Zealand

New Zealand is paradise to most travelers for its amazing sights and delicious food, but it all comes at a cost.

Good to know: Food and drinks are expensive. If you want to save some money, plan to cook your own food in your campervan . PAKn’Save and New World are good grocery stores to stock up and are in most big towns. And check out our campervan recipes for some meal ideas!

How Much to Budget in New Zealand Per Day

Budget traveler: If you are on a tight budget and watch your spending closely, $60 – $90 could be a sufficient budget. Psst! We have an entire article devoted to budget tips for traveling in New Zealand !

Mid-range traveler: If you want to have a few splurges and stay in nicer accommodation, plan to budget $100 – $150 per day per person.

Luxury traveler: It won’t be hard to blow through $200 per person each day if you’re renting a top of the line campervan and packing your itinerary with tours like bungey jumping and scenic helicopter flights.

Dorm bed = $15-$25

Camping = $0-$20

Campervan Rental = $75-450 per day

Budget room = $45-$65

Mid-range = $90-$125

Luxury hotel = $135+

Fast food = $5-$20

Mid-range restaurant = $8-$40

Fancy restaurant = $50+

Local beer = $5-$8

Skydive = $230-300

Bungy Jump = $150-200

Whitewater Rafting = $68-100

Glacier Hiking = $265-320

Bus Fare = $25-$40

Ferry from North to South Island = $55

Domestic Flights = $80-$165

Train = $68-$150

Responsible Travel Tips in New Zealand

We are passionate about sharing tips anyone can use to travel more responsibly . Here are some easy ways you can travel better in New Zealand.

1. Respect the environment

New Zealanders love recycling. If you don’t recycle properly, you can get fines! When going to beaches, read the signs with the do’s and dont’s so you’ll know what you can and can’t do. Also, avoid buying bottled water. Instead, have a reusable water bottle.

Related Article: Eco-friendly Travel Gear Packing List

2. Bring all your trash with you

If you’re going camping, make sure you tidy up after you’re all done. Have a handy trash bag where you can put all of your garbage during the trip.

3. Shop local

Support local artisans to help keep the traditional Māori crafts alive. Check out the Jade carvings in the West Coast, they are stunning!

Related Article: 36 Responsible Travel Tips for anywhere in the world.

What to Pack for New Zealand

The weather in New Zealand changes drastically from season to season and from the South to the North Islands. Be sure to pack appropriately for the region, season and activities you’ll be doing. You can download this 7-page packing list for free. Just give us your email and we’ll send it straight to you inbox.

Here are some New Zealand-specific items we’d recommend packing:

bug repellant (solids are the way to go, because sandflies really suck)

reef safe sunscreen

insulated water bottle

t-shirts, a nice top, and long sleeved shirt

rain and windproof jacket

reusable straw & reusable bag ( say no to single-use plastic! )

jeans, and hiking trousers

sweater and jacket for the mountains

thermal underwear and socks

Chaco sandals (we’d recommend these instead of hiking boots as they are less bulky and are good for walking through water)

sneakers and some flats

travel towel and toiletries

New Zealand Travel Articles

Find all sorts of information to help you plan the perfect New Zealand trip. From budget tips to things to do, we have it all!

South Island New Zealand Itinerary: Epic 2-Week Road Trip

We’ve done all the trip planning for you and put together the best 2-week itinerary for South Island New Zealand you’ll find! It’s packed full of incredible sights and heart-thumping adventures, plus insider tips and advice.

25 Things to Do in Wellington That You Can’t Miss

New Zealand’s capital city is vastly underrated and well-worth a spot on your itinerary. Whether you have a few hours or a few days to explore, we’re sharing all the fun things to do in Wellington that you won’t want to miss!

Planning a Campervan Trip in New Zealand: Ultimate Guide

This comprehensive guide has literally everything you need to know about planning a campervan trip to New Zealand; from how much it costs, to how to shower while living in a campervan, to the magic trick you need to know to find campsites. Any questions you have about renting a...

Car Rental in New Zealand: ESSENTIAL Guide + Tips

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How to Plan the Perfect New Zealand Itinerary

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45 Exciting Things to Do in New Zealand on Your First Visit

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9 Easy Camping Meals (that are healthy & delicious!)

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Queenstown to Milford Sound: Perfect Road Trip + Must-See Stops

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Best Milford Sound Cruise + Tips for Planning your Visit 

Surrounded by the stunning scenery of Fiordland National Park, visiting Milford Sound in New Zealand is a must! Specifically, a Milford Sound cruise allows you to experience this incredible landscape in a unique way. Read on for what to expect and which cruises are best.

Milford Sound, New Zealand: Things to Do + Essential Tips

One of many highlights of the South Island, Milford Sound New Zealand is at the top of many bucket lists. We put together this ultimate guide with everything you’ll need to know when planning a visit including when to go, where to stay, things to do, and essential tips.

54 Things to Know Before Traveling in New Zealand

In this article we’re sharing some helpful New Zealand travel tips we wish we would have known before our trip. Plus, some fun facts about New Zealand that’ll give you a deeper understanding about its history, people and culture.

North Island New Zealand: 2-Week Itinerary

From Auckland to Wellington, and everything in between, we’ve created a perfect New Zealand North Island itinerary. Follow this route, and you’ll explore the biggest highlights, plus some off the beaten path adventures! This North Island New Zealand road trip covers everything you need to know!

Best New Zealand Campsites: Ultimate Guide + Free Map

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New Zealand Travel on a Budget: 19 Money-Saving Tips

Let’s be real: traveling in New Zealand is not cheap. But even though it’s notorious expensive, you can still travel to NZ on a budget. We’re breaking down common expenses like food, transportation, and accommodation, so you know exactly how much it costs to go to New Zealand. Plus we’re...

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Routeburn Track: Hiking Guide + Local Tips

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Best Time to Visit New Zealand: When to Go & When to Avoid!

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Tongariro Crossing: Guide to New Zealand’s Best Day Hike

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22 Best New Zealand Foods to Try (& what to skip!)

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The ultimate packing guide for a trip to New Zealand

With so many adventure experiences to be had in New Zealand, knowing what to pack can be confusing. Happily, we’ve made it easy with this essential travel packing list for New Zealand.

New Zealand has a predominantly temperate climate but its sheer geographical diversity means the weather can be both unpredictable and highly variable. With an infinite range of outdoor activities and adventures on offer, it’s important to follow a comprehensive travel packing list carefully.

“When travelling to a place like New Zealand, it's important to consider where and when you're going and what you're going to do,” says Daan Dijkstra, product specialist at Kathmandu . “You'll require specific garments and equipment based on location, season and activity. New Zealand is renowned for its fickle weather at times; four seasons in one day is not uncommon, and you will need to dress accordingly. You'll need different gear for a lazy beach holiday compared to a hardcore solo hike in the Southern Alps. Where, when and what should always be in the back of your mind when you're looking at what to take on your trip.”

Here are 20 essential items worth adding to your travel packing list for New Zealand:

Spring & Summer (September-February)

1. sunscreen.

The ozone layer is thin in many parts of New Zealand, so in summer be sure pack high-level sun protection even if you think you’re immune to UV rays.

2. Trekking boots

With some of the most scenic trails anywhere in the world, you’ll need a decent pair of walking shoes that offer support on ragged paths. “Don't just bring a pair of jandals (Kiwi for thongs),” says Daan. “If you plan to go for a bit of a hike you'll need to bring sturdy shoes or boots with a good sole for some much-needed grip while exploring the New Zealand bush.”

3. Camera backpack

There are now a multitude of great compact DSLR backpacks available which double as day packs so you can carry multiple lenses (a wide angle is crucial for those landscape shots) as well as essentials for your outing.

4. Travel cards

Pre-load a travel card with local currency and avoid having to carry a chunky wallet while you’re out enjoying physical adventures.

5. Trekking poles

You might feel a bit strange using trekking poles for the first time but you’ll appreciate the support they offer when you’re on that rugged alpine trail to Mt Cook.

6. Waterproof rain jacket

They pack down to nothing and can make the difference between a miserable, soggy outing and an unforgettable day out.

7. Head torch

Camping, trekking, or just trying to find your way to the toilet in the dark without stubbing your toe on a tent peg, trust us, you’ll be glad you packed a head torch.

8. Swimsuit/boardies

With turquoise glacial lakes and pristine ocean at every turn, stuff a pair in your day pack as you might want to cool off mid-trail.

9. Bug resistant spray or clothing

Sandflies can be a real annoyance in New Zealand. Ward them off with some good quality repellent. Daan recommends going one step further by investing in bug-resistant clothing. “New Zealand’s sandflies can be notoriously hungry for a sip of your blood. A great alternative is buzzGUARD insect repellent apparel; clothing that keeps mozzies and other creepy crawlies away.”

Kiwis can be surprisingly strict when it comes to ID, especially when it comes to serving alcohol. Avoid disappointment at the vineyard cellar door by keeping it handy.

Autumn & Winter (March-August)

11. thermals/layers.

In and around Queenstown can be mighty chilly during winter and a skinny pair of thermals will prove invaluable on and off the slopes. When it comes to choice of fibre, Daan believes merino is a winner. “Merino base layers are soft against the skin and odour resistant so you can wear them for longer. Merino also wicks away moisture from your skin and provides temperature regulation. Mother Nature at her best.”

Apparently we lose the majority of heat through our head. Keep it warm and your body will follow suit.

So much easier than attempting to ski or snowboard with a bulky camera, strap one of these diminutive bad boys to your helmet and capture all the action of your trip.

14. Leatherman

This compact, pocket-sized tool kit can prove priceless whether it’s tightening the bindings on your snowboard or popping the cap on a beer bottle.

15. Snowboarding gear

If you own it, bring it. It’s far preferable to queueing in rental shops to pull on ski boots that have seen hundreds of sweaty feet before yours.

16. Sunscreen

Previously mentioned but always worth reinforcing: the temperature may be freezing, but the sun can burn in winter, especially when reflected off snow. Pack zinc or seriously high factor cream.

17. Portable charger

Don’t badger the barman at the après ski joint to use his phone charger, pack a pocket sized battery to keep your electronics juiced up.

18. Thick socks

Cold feet suck. Whether you’re trekking, boarding or just hanging out, pack a few pairs of thick socks to ensure you’re comfortable when the temperature drops.

19. Packing cells

Daan believes that packing cells are life changers for travellers. “Packing cells keep your gear organised and ready wherever you go. No more desperate digging in your pack, no more lost socks, no more moments of pure panic just before the bus leaves,” he says. “Use compression packing cells if you need to reduce the volume of your gear. You can even buy anti-odour packing cells to keep your smelly boots away from your clean gear.”

20. Insulated jacket

It packs into a compact ball and keeps you snug. An insulated jacket is also infinitely more travel-friendly than a bulky fleece and is pretty fashionable too.

AusPost Travel Team

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Australia Post acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we operate, live and gather as employees, and recognise their continuing connection to land, water and community. We pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging.

New Zealand

Comprised of the volcanic, lush green North Island and its rugged, mountainous neighbor to the south, New Zealand has just about everything you could ask for in a destination. With a rich Maori heritage, beautiful beaches, geothermal spas, Lord of the Rings filming locations, and a growing wine culture—plus tons of adventure sports—the “Land of the Long White Cloud” has much to offer travelers, who are guaranteed to fall in love with this little nation.

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When’s the best time to go to New Zealand?

At the bottom of the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons in New Zealand are reversed from what most of us are accustomed to. Summer runs roughly from December to March, with Christmas through January considered peak season. Snowfields on both islands lure skiers and snowboarders, making New Zealand a popular winter destination as well. During the shoulder seasons, the crowds die down. The weather on the North Island, especially around Auckland, is considered mild and temperate, making it a nice destination year-round.

How to get around New Zealand

Really, the only way to get to New Zealand is by flying, and all international flights are routed through Auckland because of its large airport. From Australia, it’s a four-hour flight, and from Los Angeles it’s 12. A growing cruise industry brings tourists to travel around New Zealand by ship.

Many visitors choose to rent a “campervan” as a way to explore New Zealand’s lush countryside, save on accommodations, and participate in the country’s rich camping tradition. There are plenty of holiday parks and sites in which to park overnight, but free camping isn’t allowed anymore in most of New Zealand. If you are planning to explore the country for more than a month, you might even consider buying a car or campervan. Because of New Zealand’s remote location and limited public transportation, there is a large market of used cars being bought and sold by travelers; it’s a relatively easy, cheap, and painless process. The major cities also have airports, so if you’re on a limited schedule, you can fly between destinations. Public buses connect towns and cities (you can buy hop-on, hop-off bus passes), and there are some train routes on both islands, as well as plenty of tour companies.

Food and drink to try in New Zealand

New Zealand has a growing food scene, and in recent years big cities like Wellington and Auckland have turned out gourmet restaurants, chic cafes, and boutique bars. The famous coffee culture here ensures you will never be far from a delicious cup of coffee. Trendy new independent craft beer companies and breweries continue to pop up around the country, and plenty of wineries dot both islands.

Culture in New Zealand

Before it was colonized by Westerners, New Zealand was settled by the seafaring Maori people from the Pacific. You can visit various Maori sites and have Maori cultural experiences in places like Rotorua. From carving greenstone or jade pendants to witnessing the famous Haka, you’ll see Maori culture and history everywhere in New Zealand.

The two main wine festivals are Toast Martinborough on the North Island in November, and the Marlborough Wine Festival in February on the South Island. New Zealand’s version of Independence Day, when the Treaty of Waitangi was signed between the Maoris and the British Crown, takes place every year on February 6. Also in February, Wellington comes alive with the Sevens, when seven rugby teams compete, creating a massive party in Wellington. If adventurous eating is your thing, then be sure to check out the Hokitika Wild Food Festival in March, where you can try anything and everything.

Local travel tips for New Zealand

- New Zealand is one of the safest and friendliest countries in the world. From the commonplace encounters with hitchhikers around the islands to conversations with just about anyone you meet, it won’t take long for you to realize that there’s something special about Kiwis. - Remember that because New Zealand is very remote, parts of the country aren’t easily accessed, aren’t connected to phone service, or are prone to wild weather and geological activity such as earthquakes, landslides, and volcanoes—and it’s good to come prepared.

Practical Information

- English and Maori are the official languages of New Zealand, and pretty much everybody speaks English. - Of course, like any language, Kiwis (aka New Zealanders) have their own take on some words. If you’re told to get dressed in your togs and jandals, change into a swimsuit and flip flops. And when you’re driving around in a camper van, there’s a good chance you’ll end up in the middle of the wop wops (aka the sticks). - The country runs on 230/240 volts with angled two- or three-pin plugs so you’ll need a converter.

Guide Editor

Brett Atkinson is a full-time travel and food writer based in Auckland. He writes about adventure travel, unusual destinations, and surprising angles on more well known destinations for Lonely Planet and the BBC, among other outlets.

Liz Carlson is a writer and travel blogger based in New Zealand.

Covid-19 travel safety and information

Know what to expect while travelling and follow some simple guidelines to stay safe in New Zealand.

On this page, you'll find helpful information on what you need to know:

Before travelling to New Zealand

• When in New Zealand

Leaving New Zealand

1. check your eligibility.

Before planning your travel to New Zealand, make sure you are eligible for travel, meet the visa requirements and have taken the right steps.

Everyone entering New Zealand needs to complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) (opens in new window) including babies and children. It’s free and you can complete it on the NZTD website or by downloading the NZTD app ahead of your travel.

2. New Zealand’s vaccination requirements

COVID-19 vaccination and testing requirements for all travellers arriving in the country, including air crew, are no longer required.

However, all travellers are strongly encouraged to remain up to date with their vaccinations before travelling to New Zealand. Vaccination remains a significant tool for preventing infection, reducing COVID-19 symptoms and severe illness.

3. Pre-departure test

To enter New Zealand, travellers no longer need to get a pre-departure test. 

4. Other things to consider before leaving 

For peace of mind during your trip in New Zealand, you may also want to consider medical and travel insurance.

When you're in New Zealand

Once you arrive in new zealand.

Antigen tests

Travellers entering New Zealand do not need pre-departure tests or proof of COVID-19 vaccination to enter New Zealand. Check with your travel provider as they may still require proof of vaccination. If you have COVID-19 symptoms when you arrive in New Zealand, it is recommended to take a rapid antigen test (RATs). COVID-19 tests are free and widely available in New Zealand. Find more information on how to get a free RAT or PCR test (opens in new window) . Find more  information on taking your test (opens in new window) .

COVID-19 safety practices in place

With COVID-19 case numbers falling, a highly vaccinated population, and increased access to antiviral medicines to treat COVID-19, New Zealand has removed most COVID-19 restrictions. It is still recommended to practice healthy habits when travelling around New Zealand.

Practice healthy habits

• While travelling around New Zealand, you should try to physically distance yourself in airports or busy transport hubs.
• Wearing a face mask is no longer required, although masks are still encouraged in some places such as hospitals.
• Find further information on face mask requirements (opens in new window) here.

What to do if you develop symptoms

• Find a COVID-19 testing centre (opens in new window) in your current location
• Order a rapid antigen tests (RATs) home testing kit
• Isolate for seven days. Find more information on self-isolation requirements (opens in new window) .
• Find more information on what to do if you  test positive while travelling (opens in new window) .

Helpful links

• New Zealand emergency information and numbers
• List of public hospitals in New Zealand (opens in new window)
• Testing centre locations (opens in new window) across New Zealand

Check entry requirements

The country you are travelling to may have entry requirements in place. Be sure to check the requirements of the country you are travelling to.

• the official website of the country you wish to enter
• that country’s diplomatic representative in New Zealand
• More information if you require a pre-departure test before leaving (opens in new window) New Zealand
• List of testing centre locations (opens in new window) in New Zealand

More information on travelling to NZ

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Essential New Zealand

Rotorua and Taupo

• Hawke's Bay

Nelson and Abel Tasman

Christchurch

Queenstown and Wanaka

Fiords, mountains, friendly cities and great wine - a two-week trip to see the best of both islands

Personalised journeys from start to finish

Every trip helps support Conservation

Every detail taken care of

Itinerary highlights

What's included, at a glance.

A wonderful introduction to New Zealand , this 15-day luxury trip takes in both New Zealand’s North and South Islands, passing through epic landscapes, friendly cities, combed vineyards and endless coastline.

Begin in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city and, with its mix of culture, cuisine, music and art, one of the world’s most liveable urban centres. Receive a warm welcome and be introduced to the region’s history and wonderful beaches.

Next up are the geothermal landscapes of Rotorua and Taupo, an area of verdant forests, clear lakes and billowing geysers. During your time here, board a helicopter and fly out to White Island, New Zealand ’s only permanently active volcano, circling the steaming crater.

Continue on to the gently rolling hills and golden plains of Hawke’s Bay for vineyard tours and wine tasting while based at a peaceful rural lodge, then fly across the Cook Strait to South Island for two nights on the rugged coastline around Tasman Bay, discovering its secluded beaches and forested interior.

Venturing ever southward, your next stop is the seaside town of Kaikoura, a haven for marine wildlife, where you’ll get the chance to spot whales from the air, dolphins from a boat and swim with seals. End in vibrant Queenstown for three days exploring this particularly handsome corner of the country. Take a scenic helicopter flight to the iconic Milford Sound and cruise on its waters under Mitre Peak, and tour colonial towns and famous vineyards for a fitting finale to your time in New Zealand .

Example trip itinerary

Meet and greet at Auckland airport

Private transfer to your hotel

Accommodation in Auckland

• Sustainable, design-led hotel
• Top-floor suites
• Local and seasonal produce
• Chef’s Table dining
• Award-winning hospitality

Stepping inside The Hotel Britomart is a breath of fresh air. While on the doorstep you’ve got the dynamic and thrilling thrum of Auckland, inside here you’ll find calming spaces filled with serene, neutral colours and natural linens, and little details that will delight. It’s all clean lines and natural light by design, with wood-panelled ceilings and timber-clad walls in the 99 bedrooms, and the mini bars in each of its rooms are stocked with local treats. 

Choose a Waitematā View room and you’ll get the added bonus of waterfront vistas right from your bedroom, where you can watch the ferries come and go from the docks down below. For an elevated experience, though, the five Landing Suites are superb: expect curated artworks by top photographers, a library of books to encourage more exploration of New Zealand and its history, and ample space for relaxing with your own lounge area and kitchenette.

Industrial infrastructure meets fine seafood at the property’s Kingi restaurant, where chef Tom Hishon prioritises locally-caught fish and seasonal produce on his tasting menus, and breakfast here is a feast of nourishing, fresh fruits, vegetables, fish and home-baked breads and pastries. 

The impact of your stay:

• Hotel Britomart distinguishes itself through an unwavering commitment to comprehensive sustainability practices. Every detail, from the meticulously chosen materials to the uniforms crafted from sustainable fabrics, reflects a dedication to minimising environmental impact. The innovative approach extends to the reuse and recycling of construction waste, with nearly 80% finding new life.
• Born from a vision to honour the vibrant past of Auckland’s bustling trade, architects and dreamers transformed disused warehouses into a haven. Exposed brick walls narrate tales of bygone eras, while contemporary design breathes new life into every corner. Beyond bricks and mortar, this renovation revives Auckland’s history, allowing it to harmoniously coexist with the present.
• Hotel Britomart prioritises the well-being of its diverse team, providing fair wages, mental health support, and celebrating important occasions. Embracing the cultural history of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei iwi, the hotel showcases New Zealand artists and tells local stories through commissioned artworks. The commitment extends to local suppliers, ensuring economic benefits stay within the community.

At the Cordis, Auckland is a modern hotel in the city’s lively uptown area, with its fashionable boutiques, galleries and museums within easy reach.

There are 411 rooms and suites offer views of the lush green Auckland Domain and the city skyline. Colour palettes are neutral pastels, with hardwood furniture offset by rich textiles and luxurious fittings. Large windows let in the light and showcase the hotel’s prime location.

Expand your culinary horizons at Eight, where you get to sample classic and contemporary Asian and Western cuisine from eight interactive cooking stations. From American grills to sushi and Indian curries, it’s a gastronomic adventure. The stylish lobby lounge bar the dazzling heart of the hotel. Enjoy a light meal, or indulge in the exquisite afternoon tea served.

Recharge at the fitness centre, with access to state-of-the-art gtym equipment and free weights and an award-winning spa. The hotel’s heated outdoor pool is ideal for brisk early morning laps, as well as energising night swims beneath the stars.

Straddling two unique precincts in downtown Auckland, this iconic building has been transformed into a stylish boutique hotel.

The 25 individually designed rooms and suites feature eclectic furniture, as well as local art and photography. Each room has its own style, and the bespoke carpets throughout the hotel are made from 100% hand- woven New Zealand wool.

A focal point of DeBretts Kitchen is the glass-roofed atrium and courtyard where guests can tuck into contemporary New Zealand cuisine. Get the evening off to a great start with local craft beers and boutique wines at the Art Deco-inspired House Bar, or the retro Cornerbar.

New Zealand’s largest cosmopolitan centre is a lively mix of culture, cuisine, music and art with ample green spaces and easily accessible beaches. It is the modern melting pot of the Pacific with influences from Asia, the Pacific islands and Europe along with traditional Maori culture. A fresh and vibrant city, Auckland boasts some of the best restaurants in the country, and the harbour, which underwent a revamp before hosting the Rugby World Cup in 2011, is now a wonderful place to soak up the buzz of this exciting city.

Auckland is one of the world’s most diverse and captivating cities and the largest Polynesian city. It is built on a fertile volcanic isthmus nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea with two main natural harbours, the Waitemata and Manukau. This tour covers the highlights of Auckland based on a number of iconic volcanic cones of historical significance and provides an opportunity to learn about how they shaped the history of the city.

Auckland's windswept west coast black sand beaches are a magnet for surfers, photographers and nature lovers. Visit Muriwai Beach to see the impressive clifftop gannet colonies (from August to March), or nearby Te Henga (Bethells Beach) to stroll the sand and explore the enormous sand dunes at Lake Wainamu.

Down the coast is Piha, a popular surf beach watched over by majestic Lion Rock, and Karekare, made famous as a backdrop for the film The Piano.

Enjoy a scenic drive from Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo for very special glow worm experience. The drive passes through a region riddled with limestone caves formed over 30 million years ago. Your tour will take you to two spectacular caves, one filled with twinkling glow worms and the other with stalactites and stalagmites.

Accommodation in Rotorua and Taupo

• Spa treatments

Solitaire Lodge is located in a lush environment upon the fringes of Lake Tarawera, with a spectacular backdrop of volcanoes and forest, a vista which each of the 10 stylish suites makes the most of through vast glass walls.

Fine dining at the restaurant is a particular highlight here, with Solitaire’s talented chefs creating daily changing contemporary New Zealand fare prepared with fresh local ingredients, complemented by a variety of superb wines from selected regional vineyards, enjoyed in the communal dining room or somewhere more private.

Head down to the lake to explore its waters aboard the lodge’s motorised dinghies and kayaks, fish from the jetty or simply swim from the private beach. There’s a spa menu to indulge in, self-guided hikes to nearby Tarawera Falls and cycle trails past some stunning geothermal sites. Scenic helicopter flights, Maori guided tours of Rotorua and more challenging hikes can also be arranged, along with a full roster of adventure sports nearby or perhaps a visit to the Hobbiton village movie set from The Lord of the Rings.

The Treetops Lodge is hidden away in 2,500 acres of ancient forest typical of New Zealand’s abundant natural beauty.

The 12 residences are varied yet all retain an exceptional level of award-winning hospitality, meaning your stay at this acclaimed eco-lodge will be both memorable and leisurely. Settle down in the lavish interiors of a secluded villa or perhaps you are in a large group, in which case the incredibly spacious Pheasant Cottage or Lodge Rooms are ideal.

Dining is a treat at the Treetops Lodge. Wake up to a gourmet breakfast, sit down to a delicious lunch of locally-sourced trout or game and, as night falls, savour dishes exploding in spectacular flavours, colours and smells. Of course, there is a comprehensive wine list of local vintages as well as a selection of fine coffees, teas and cocktails.

Maori healing rituals can be found at the spa, an environmentally-sensitive and sustainable wellness centre designed to best integrate into the wilderness around you. Ease aching muscles under the expert hands of a professional masseuse or enjoy the healing powers of a Manuka honey body scrub.

Steaming mud pools, erupting geysers and Maori traditions all make Rotorua and Taupo a special area to visit and one that is distinctively unique to the rest of New Zealand. Explore geothermal parks before heading into nearby native forests for hiking or mountain biking the numerous world-class trails. Lake Taupo is actually a volcano crater, the lake’s deep blue waters draw visitors with its idyllic swimming holes, reputable fishing and adventure sports. On a clear day the views stretch out over the glassy water to the snowcapped volcanoes of Tongariro National Park in the distance.

Fly over New Zealand’s only permanently active volcano, White Island. Leaving Rotorua, you fly past the northern lakes district before crossing the coast. As you approach you will enjoy aerial views of the active crater. From above, you can admire the active steam vents, hot streams, vibrant sulphur formations and the steaming crater. The landscape is constantly changing as the activity forms new features and removes old ones. The crater lake changes in depth and temperature so that from one day to the next, the landscape is different.

Begin the evening with an immersive cultural experience with a private dinner of Kiwi cuisine with two course at a Maori family home. Next up is a magical walk on a series of suspension bridges between 22 Californian redwoods, the forest illuminated by huge hanging lanterns designed by famous NZ artist, David Trubridge.

Private transfer to your lodge in Hawke's Bay

Hawke's Bay

Accommodation in Hawke's Bay

Set atop 6,000 rolling acres of pasture-land in Hawke’s Bay, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers is the perfect place for a getaway. With spectacular views of the ocean, the luxury lodge combines the rustic and textured aesthetic of a working farm with chic modern and genuinely luxurious touches.

Each of the 22 spacious suites has a private balcony with views over the farmlands, golf course and the Pacific. Ideal for a family, or group, The Owner’s Cottage offers boutique hotel facilities for up to eight people. Relax in front of the stone fireplace, or soak in the outdoor Jacuzzi.

The culinary team aims to source produce as locally as possible, and with the Cape Kidnappers’ vegetable garden now fully established, the chefs can create daily menus based on the freshest ingredients. And they are delighted when guests ask to see the garden. The pastry chef makes everything from scratch on site – from cereals, cookies and bread, to jams, pastries and ice cream.

Enhance your stay by spending an indulgent day at the Cape Kidnappers Spa on the hillside above the lodge. Soak up the views across the valley, towards the sea or over the forest to snow-capped Mount Ruapehu.

There are a broad mix of activities on offer here, seasonal and changing daily, including farm tours, guided walks, star gazing, wine tasting, clay pigeon shooting, bird watching, golf, horse treks, mountain biking and more.

The peaceful Breckenridge Lodge is the perfect place to experience superb Kiwi hospitality, gourmet food, local wine and beautiful scenery.

Nestled in the picturesque valley of Omarunui in Hawke’s Bay Wine Country, the lodge offers private, luxury accommodation and the freedom to explore the two acres of gardens and surrounding countryside.

Make yourself at home in one of five well-appointed guest rooms which overlook the vineyard and expansive rural landscape.  The guest dining room is the focal point of the house. With its inviting, relaxed atmosphere, it’s the ideal place to swap stories with other guests and share tales of your day’s adventures in Hawke’s Bay. Or simply immerse yourself in one of the books or albums available to enjoy.

Host and Chef Malcolm Redmond uses fresh seasonal produce from his own organic garden and orchard, as well as local markets. The dinner menu features five courses, each paired with wine, and changes according to what produce is available. For those inspired by the chef’s sumptuous feasts, there are also cooking classes in which he shares some of his tips.

The lodge is committed to continually working towards the best environmentally conscious business practices – finding the balance between luxury and responsibility.

The North Island’s wine country is one of New Zealand’s warmest, driest regions with golden colours stretching across arid plains. The scene here is made up of vineyards and orchards laden with fruit, fertile farmlands that sweep to the perfect waves on the coast and laidback seaside settlements.

Become absorbed into the vibrant world of Hawke’s Bay wine. You'll have the chance to meet the people passionate about crafting world-class wine, visit some of the best wineries, and taste their award-winning labels. Rich soils and warm growing conditions attract innovative food producers and you'll get to sample a myriad of delicious products.

Private transfer to Hawke's Bay Airport

Flight from Hawke's Bay to Nelson

Private transfer to your lodge

Accommodation in Nelson and Abel Tasman

• Gourmet food
• Infinity pool
• Mountain biking
• Cooking classes
• Sea kayaking

High above Tasman Bay, Split Apple Retreat offers both every indulgence as well as the promise of a focus on good health.

This quiet Abel Tasman National Park luxury retreat and wellness hideaway is the ideal place to relax and pamper yourself in pristine surrounds.

Two of the ocean-facing rooms, Fuji and Lotus, boast the best in Japanese-style luxury with private decks and gardens and Japanese granite baths. The third, Rainbow, a two-level room with a separate lounge, features colour-changing LED lights in the bath and shower.

Split Apple retreat specialises in serving gourmet food with a focus on good health and mouth-watering presentation. The result of a collaboration between a doctor specialising in nutrition and a culinary artist, the retreat has become known for its dedication to fine food that promotes longevity. To ensure guests can continue eating mindfully at home, the chef guides budding culinary artists through a number of her popular dishes.

Continuing the focus on wellness, there are a wide range of services to help guests unwind, relax and rejuvenate. Choose from a selection of massage treatments, learn how to meditate, or sign up for a private yoga session. The gym, infrared sauna, steam room and infinity pool leave guests feeling thoroughly refreshed. For adventuring beyond the lodge, private boats and water taxis land at Split Apple Beach to collect guests keen on visiting the Abel Tasman National Park.

Stroll along garden pathways towards the shoreline where your stylish suite awaits. Each of the apartment-style villas at Te Koi – The Lodge at Bronte is nestled among mature native trees, allowing for the ultimate in privacy.

The spacious rooms are beautifully appointed with fresh flowers and locally commissioned art adding splashes of freshness and detail. Large windows and patio doors allow fresh country air and sunshine to flood the rooms, and luxurious linens, home baking, and complimentary drinks and chocolates make the welcome a little warmer.

After a day of sight-seeing, relax on a wide veranda and enjoy the panoramic Waimea estuary and mountain views. The estuary is a dream for bird watchers, and the villas designed specifically to fit unobtrusively into the natural setting.

New Zealand’s sunniest region has a diverse geography ripe for exploring from golden sand beaches to dense forests, the clearest fresh water lake in the world and secluded, enticing rivers. At the heart of it all is a creative, easy-going city deemed one of New Zealand’s most liveable. The region’s biggest attraction is the Abel Tasman National Park, the country’s smallest national park that frequents the front pages of tourist brochures with its dream-like golden sand beaches, emerald green waters and friendly fur seal population. Hike, boat or kayak into one of its many beaches and coves.

Get a taste of all the Abel Tasman has to offer from the comfort of an Abel Tasman Charters' boat. You can just stay on board and relax or take one of the kayaks for a paddle. Go for a swim, snorkel over the marine reserve or be dropped off for a bush walk. Enjoy a delicious lunch and then do it all again. During the day you'll pass Split Apple Rock, Kaiteriteri, Marahau, round golden sandy bays, Adele and Fishermans Islands, and cruise on to Tonga Island seal colony. The cruise itinerary is flexible, and your friendly, knowledgeable skipper will ensure you are able to learn about the national park - if there is something to see on your day trip, like dolphins riding the bow wave or New Zealand fur seals fishing, then it can happen.

Private transfer to Kaikoura

Accommodation in Kaikoura

The work of a family of architects and builders, Hapuku Lodge is an extraordinary ecolodge perfectly placed between the white peaks of the Kaikoura Mountain Range and waves of Mangamaunu Bay. With an environmentally-friendly focus, this lodge was carefully constructed from salvaged timber and seeks to be sustainable in every area.

There are four ultra-spacious rooms in the main lodge with wonderful mountain views, Japanese soaking tubs with room for two and immense custom beds – said to be the best on the island. The two suites also have their own fireplaces and a living area.

However, the real stars of the show are the luxurious treehouses, standing 10m (30 feet) above the ground in the canopy of a native Manuka grove, each with a wood-burning fireplace, spa bath, open rain showers and large glass windows with a birds-eye view to the coast. There are two storey options for families, and the standalone Olive House Suite has room for two adults and up to three children.

Dining at Hapuku means an organic and locally-sourced menu, with produce collected from the hotel’s own herb and vegetable gardens, free-range chicken populations and meat from nearby hunters and fishermen. Constantly changing and evolving offerings may include venison, wild blackberries, a variety of cheese, crayfish and even homemade plum ice cream. A comprehensive wine list makes sure to incorporate vintages from all over New Zealand, the ideal accompaniment to a wonderful meal.

There are adventures to be had in every corner of Kaikoura’s coast, dubbed the ‘Maritime Serengeti’ by the local National Geographic. Head out on the waves in a sea kayak, swim with dolphins and seals or go whale watching to spot the gentle grey giants in the ocean blue. Mountain bikes can be borrowed from the lodge to traverse the surrounding trails while there are also Maori cultural tours, horse riding and the acclaimed surfing of Mangamaunu Bay a short walk away.

Situated in beautiful mountain surroundings amongst groves of manuka trees, with panoramic views towards the South Pacific, Manakau Lodge is a luxury rural retreat.

This peaceful haven is ideal for relaxation, but is just a ten-minute drive from the shops and restaurants of Kaikoura, and many leisure activities. The lodge is also just a stone’s throw away from some great wilderness walks, and just minutes from beaches and coastal scenic reserves. It is the perfect base from which to explore Kaikoura and the magnificent surrounding areas.

Comfort is the main priority, and all four rooms are spacious and elegantly appointed, featuring New Zeland timber and locally furnishings. Breakfasts are a leisurely affair, and cheese and supper platters can be specially arranged in advance for those not wanting to dine in Kaikoura.

Kaikoura, a quaint village between the snowcapped Kaikoura Range and Pacific Ocean, is a haven for wildlife fanatics and adventure sports enthusiasts alike. For the former, the region has been dubbed the ‘maritime Serengeti’, the sea here one of the best places in New Zealand to go whale and dolphin watching. For the active, there are wonderful hiking and mountain biking trails along the coast, fine surfing, sea kayaking and more.

Whale watching by from the air offers a unique perspective and the opportunity to view whales and dolphins in their natural environment, experiencing the true magnitude of some of the world’s largest animals, and offering a fabulous view for photographers. This scenic flight lasts for around 30 minutes.

Meet your guides and fellow swimming in Kaikoura where you'll be provided with warm, buoyant wet suits and snorkeling equipment before taking a short bus and boat trip .Along the way you will be given a briefing on New Zealand Fur Seals, aspects of snorkeling, seal swimming etiquette and safety. One to two experienced guides, equipped with large float boards will then accompany each group in the water. From here every tour is different as the seals are totally wild. Due to the seals natural curiosity swimmers can reasonably expect to get some interactions, some up close and personal. Generally around one hour is spent in the water before returning back to base for hot showers.

Enjoy a private cruise to spot the dusky dolphins inhabit the coastal waters off Kaikoura all year round. They are renowned for their acrobatic leaps and interactive behaviour.

Private transfer to Christchurch

Accommodation in Christchurch

Otahuna is a Maori word that translates as little hill among the hills. This beautifully restored Victorian house enjoys an idyllic location between the rocky outcrops of the Banks Peninsular, looking out towards the Southern Alps.

The house was built in 1895 for Sir Henry Rhodes, a long-term parliamentarian and military officer and served as his private home for many years. The lodge is influenced by English country estates, the dark wood, large fireplaces and antique furniture giving it a classical elegance.

There are seven suites, all with ornate fireplaces, and carved inglenooks and deep, oversized bath tubs. There are two master suites, one featuring  four bedrooms and the other a 14m verandah with sweeping views across the Canterbury Plains.

Dinner at Otahuna is a four-course tasting menu served in the dining room. The menu celebrates the best of seasonal New Zealand produce, some of which is grown on the estate. Dinner is a sociable affair enjoyed with other guests, but if you’re after something a little more private then there is the option to dine in the library or the drawing room. You can be sure of the perfect accompaniment to your food with fine wines from the lodge’s own cellar.

The grounds surrounding Otahuna are as beautiful as the lodge itself. Guests can wander through the daffodil field, through the woods and the Dutch garden and down to the lake, stopping off for a game of petanque or a dip in the outdoor pool.

The George is renowned for offering guests personalised stays and supreme comfort. Located in the heart of Christchurch close to the cultural precinct and key attractions, the hotel overlooks the picturesque Hagley Park and Avon River.

The 53 rooms are designed with a stylish eye for detail, complete with luxury amenities and captivating views through picture windows. Impeccable service and an intimate ambience are assured, thanks to the hotel’s one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio, the George is all about opulence and elegance.

Enjoy bistro food with modern flavours in the relaxed 50 Bistro. A stylish interior flows out to a generous outdoor area, complete with fire tables that reflect the warm hues of the onyx wall inside. The menu offers classics updated with 50 Bistro’s particular flair. Pescatore is seafood-focused restaurant offers an exciting conceptual dining experience, designed to engage the senses. The space is luxurious and modern, offering a minimalist and uncluttered approach to formal dining.

Guests have complimentary access to mountain bikes, a gym, private garden and a library.

Enjoy an evening at leisure in Christchurch, once known as the most English city of New Zealand with its manicured gardens, quaint trams, stately houses and a vast central park. Since the earthquakes on 2010 and 2011, the city has reemerged as a cultural and creative hub with some wonderful restaurants, boutiques and friendly locals.

Private transfer to Christchurch Airport

Flight from Christchurch to Queenstown

Accommodation in Queenstown

Sat on the shores of the deep Lake Wakatipu, Matakauri Lodge is a tranquil haven of serene blue waters and sweeping mountain landscapes. Snow-capped peaks reach towards the sky, providing a backdrop like no other to this incredible luxury establishment.

Modern, bright and with plenty of room, the 16 suites have been styled by the highly celebrated designer Virginia Fisher. Four suites are found in the main lodge section while others have been built in a native forest with alpine panoramas. All have their own private balcony, lounge area and decadent bathroom, not to mention the cosy fireplace. The sizeable Owner’s Cottage is an idyllic getaway for larger groups or families.

Boasting a menu that changes constantly with the availability of seasonal produce, the kitchen at Matakauri Lodge focuses on a clean and fresh experience for the palate. There are a number of settings in which to savour this modern New Zealand cuisine, from the privacy of your own patio to the property’s spacious courtyards.

Located near great pine thickets, the spa provides an exclusive space where you can rejuvenate and reinvigorate your body with completely personalised treatments. Fall in love with the heated pool, let off some steam in the sauna or enjoy a leisurely time in the hot tub.

Whether you arrive to the long, warm days of summer or to a winter wonderland of snow, there is always so much to do during your stay at Matakauri. Walks and hikes dominate the area, as do scenic horse riding trails and wine tours. Avid golfers will rejoice to know a PGA-rated course is nearby; The Hills is surely one of the most stunning and gorgeously isolated round of 18 you can play anywhere in the world.

A relic of stately Victorian elegance, Hulbert House is a luxury villa that operates as one of Queenstown’s oldest residences. Built in 1888, this boutique hotel offers historic charm with contemporary comforts and modern amenities.

Transformed by an award-winning designer, the interiors are vibrant while paying tribute to the antiquity of the property. The six luxury suites are all individually designed, carrying through a feeling of old-world opulence with extravagant, bold and fresh furnishing. Each has views over either Lake Wakatipu, Skyline Hill or the well-kept gardens.

A scrumptious breakfast of fresh and delicious ingredients waits those early morning risers, while the kitchen can provide tasty snacks throughout the day. Ideally placed, Hulbert House is found in close proximity to many of the attractions of Queenstown, with popular cafes, restaurants and shops all within walking distance. It is also only 450m from the banks of the large Lake Wakatipu and just a little further from the Skyline Gondola and Luge.

Often adorned with flowers beneath a clear blue New Zealand sky, the rustic yet elegant stone lodge of Blanket Bay sits perched upon the shores of Lake Wakatipu. The establishment is found in an typical South Island alpine setting of vast valleys and great mountains.

There is a luxury element found throughout all the the 12 residences, from the separate chalet cottages to the spacious lodge rooms and suites, both enjoying incredible views and plenty of natural light. There is a charming antiquity to the spaces, beautiful timber beams reaching up along the ceiling and refined wooden furnishing adding to the already classic atmosphere.

When it comes to wining and dining, there is no letting up of world-class service. The menu is forever changing, making the utmost of the kitchen’s access to locally-sourced ingredients and produce. What you will find are modern, innovative takes on classical dishes incorporating fresh fish, lamb and venison and an array of fruits and vegetables grown in the region.

Forget about your troubles at the spa, embracing the unbridled pleasures of the sauna and Jacuzzi. Ease away those aches and pains with a massage by a professional therapist, ideally after a hard workout in the fitness centre or a few laps in the heated pool.

There are few other places on earth with so many activities and adventures on offer, from the numerous hiking trails meandering up mountain ranges, fly fishing hotspots in the pools, runs, rivers and smaller mountain lakes, heli-skiing in winter, jet boating and kayaking. Tackle 4WD tours and vineyard and art trails. Horse riding enthusiasts will not be disappointed with the available tracks while golfers of any calibre will surely revel in the splendour and beauty of championship-standard Jack’s Point Golf Course.

With a history intertwined with the region’s gold rush, the building of Eichardt’s Private Hotel carries with it the understated and classic elegance of a bygone era. With sweeping views of Lake Wakatipu’s emerald blue waters and eminent mountain peaks, it is a gateway to Queenstown and the untouched wilderness beyond.

Choose from Eichardt’s lake view or mountain view suites, or the one- or two-bedroom apartments. For more privacy, or for those looking for a group getaway or family foray, there is the stand-alone three-bed Eichardt’s Residence which has a spacious kitchen, private dining area and sweeping balconies.

The hotel bar has been considered a town favourite since 1867, providing the perfect environment in which friends and colleagues can sit down for a refreshing cocktail or a refined vintage from the famed Otago wine region. For those feeling peckish, there are comprehensive tapas menus to suit every palate, with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. The bar also serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in a cosy dining area with a fireplace.

From the hotel you can treat yourself to an extensive range of in-room spa treatments provided by a local spa, wander down to the lake edge or head into the heart of the action in bustling Queenstown.

Nestled in the heart of Queenstown, The Spire Hotel offers award-winning luxury combining genuine hospitality, serenity and style.

Ten spacious suites boast fine contemporary furnishings and design elements, large balconies and roomy bathrooms.

Enjoy outstanding local produce prepared with a Mediterranean twist at the in-house bar and restaurant No5 Church Lane. Choose from a variety of Otago and international wines, and signature cocktails. Featuring work by local artists and contemporary furnishings, the restaurant offers a chic yet casual place to relax.

The five-star hotel is located within walking distance of the city’s vibrant cultural scene. There are plenty of shops and cafes to explore, as well as an active nightlife and a variety of lake and mountain activities to make your stay a memorable one.

Azur Lodge consists of nine private villas set on a hilltop overlooking the surrounding mountain ranges and Lake Wakatipu.

The open-plan villas feature a lounge, dining room and a bath tub which has been set into a bay window so you can enjoy the scenic views as you soak. There is also a private sun deck from which to gaze out across the wilderness.

Breakfast, afternoon tea and evening canapes are included, and there is the option to dine in the main lodge or in the privacy of your villa.

You are conveniently located just 20 minutes from the airport and five minutes from downtown Queenstown, so exploring this wonderful part of New Zealand couldn’t be easier.

From the towering alpine ranges that envelop Queenstown, to its laidback lakeside sister Wanaka and the incredible Milford Sound, this is easily one of the most spectacular regions of the country. Seek out one of the endless thrills on offer here from skiing, white water rafting, canyon swinging, jet boating, mountain biking and bungy jumping, or slow down to the cosmopolitan pace of life in Queenstown and cool Wanaka and you’ll discover its flourishing arts scene, excellent vineyards, fine dining and quiet lakeside shores where you can take in the incredible scenery. And, of course, Milford Sound with its spectacular 1692m-high Mitre Peak (Rahotu in Maori) is unmissable.

Explore Milford Sound's stunning fjord from both the air and the water. Enjoy an exhilarating helicopter flight past spectacular rivers, valleys and mountains with blue-green ice falls, and land on Mt Tutoko glacier in the heart of Fiordland National Park. Upon landing in Milford, you'll enjoy an unforgettable cruise past sheer cliffs and waterfalls - keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seals and penguins.

Enjoy a relaxing ride to the summit of Bob's Peak for the best views of Queenstown and the surrounding ranges.

See the best that Queenstown has to offer with your private guide. The day can be tailored to your interests and can include a look around colonial Arrowtown, visiting some local wineries, bike riding, hiking, photography and many other scenic highlights.

Private transfer to Queenstown Airport

We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.

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The 15 Best Places to Visit in New Zealand

New Zealand is only 1,000 miles long, 280 miles across at its widest, and home to just under five million people, but this long, narrow country contains many things to see and do. Travelers can ski on snow-capped mountains and bask on subtropical beaches, learn about Maori culture and discover its British heritage, sip on some of the world’s finest wines and hike through the uninhabited wilderness. Whatever travel experiences you enjoy, you can probably find them in New Zealand .

The country comprises two main islands—imaginatively named the North and South Islands in English, and Te Ika a Maui and Te Wai Pounamu, respectively, in Maori. Although the South Island is larger, more than three-quarters of New Zealand’s population lives in the North. Ideally, visitors should spend time on both islands, although picking one isn’t a bad approach. Here are the 15 best places to visit in New Zealand.

On the central North Island, Rotorua is famous for its geothermal features and Maori culture. Travelers short on time can visit on a day trip from Auckland, but it’s a convenient stop when traveling through the North Island. Hell’s Gate, Wai-O-Tapu, or Orakei Korako (on the way to Taupo) are good options for bubbling mud pools, boiling geysers, colorful rock formations, and many resorts and holiday parks in the area have hot spring bathing facilities. You can also learn more about Maori culture at tourist villages like Mitai, Whakarewarewa, and Tamaki with their cultural shows of traditional music and dancing and a hangi meal cooked in an underground pit.

Time commitment: One full day in Rotorua is ideal.

Waitangi is one of the most significant places in New Zealand's modern history. In 1840, Maori chiefs signed a treaty with representatives of the British Crown, the Treaty of Waitangi, a founding document that gave the sovereignty of New Zealand to British rule. Visit for a crash course in the country's history in this beautiful coastal location. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds include an indoor museum, the Treaty House, an ornately carved marae (Maori meeting house), and a ceremonial waka (canoe) spread over a large area. There are beautiful views of the Bay of Islands.

Time commitment: The Waitangi Treaty grounds deserve at least half a day.

Hokianga Harbour

The Hokianga Harbour is an alternative to the Bay of Islands, often overlooked by travelers and perfect for camping or RV adventures. The area is sparsely populated and predominantly Maori. Dune boarding, hiking, horse trekking, and dolphin watching are popular activities in the Hokianga. Base yourself in one of the nearby villages of Omapere, Opononi, and Rawene. To expand your exploration, the Waipoua Forest, just south of the Hokianga, is home to two of the largest living native kauri trees.

Time commitment: Aim to spend two days to a week in the Hokianga area.

Coromandel Peninsula

The Coromandel Peninsula reaches 50 miles into the Hauraki Gulf, across the Firth of Thames from Auckland. It’s a microcosm of all that’s good in northern New Zealand—stunning beaches, hiking trails, and arty, laid-back towns. During low tide at Hot Water Beach, dig a few inches beneath the sand to create your own natural hot spring bath, spend the day at Cathedral Cove, one of New Zealand’s most beautiful beaches (which is saying something), and hike the Pinnacles Walk or Coromandel Coastal Walkway.

Time commitment: To explore the whole Coromandel Peninsula, you’d need at least a week, but it’s possible to make a quick overnight trip from Auckland or Tauranga.

Tongariro National Park

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

On the high central plateau of central North Island, Tongariro National Park is a dual UNESCO World Heritage Site, listed both for its natural and cultural significance. Most sights and activities revolve around three volcanic peaks: Mounts Tongariro, Ruapehu, and Ngauruhoe. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a moderately challenging day hike that is spectacular. In winter, ski at the Whakapapa or Turoa ski fields. 

Time commitment: You need a day to hike the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing (where you can spot the gorgeous emerald lake). With other hikes, biking trails, and skiing options in the winter, it’d be possible to spend several days in and around the park.

Hawke's Bay

Hawke’s Bay is one of New Zealand’s premier wine-producing regions and the oldest—there are more than 200 vineyards. The area is popular for its sunny climate, Art Deco allure, and the world’s largest gannet colony. The city of Napier, in particular, is famous for its Art Deco architecture because, after a massive earthquake in 1931, much of the town was rebuilt in this style. Keen bird watchers should visit the gannet colony at the Cape Kidnappers Reserve.

Time commitment: Hawke’s Bay is quite a long drive from other North Island centers (or a short flight to Hawke’s Bay Airport), so spend at least a couple of days here to make it worth the trip.

At the bottom of the North Island, Wellington is New Zealand’s capital. Equal parts bureaucratic formality and bohemian arts hub, Wellington is a perfect small city to explore. The New Zealand Parliament building, known as the ‘Beehive’ (you’ll understand why when you see it), and the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa (known simply as Te Papa) shouldn’t be missed. The Weta Workshop is a film special effects company founded by Peter Jackson, director of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit," so fans of the film should consider a tour.

Time commitment: Budget at least two days for the central city and another few to visit outlying areas like the Kapiti Coast or Cape Palliser.

Abel Tasman National Park

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Many travelers take the Interislander Ferry from Wellington to Picton, at the top of the South Island, and drive west to the Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand’s smallest national park. Abel Tasman is all about the golden beaches, turquoise seas, and forested hiking trails. For longer hikes, enter the park from the tiny town of Marahau. You can also enter the park by kayaking from Kaiteriteri.

Time commitment: If staying in nearby Nelson or Motueka, it’s easy to visit the park on a day trip. To complete the popular Coast Track walk, you’ll need three to five days.

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

On the eastern coast of the upper South Island, Kaikoura is famous for its whale and dolphin watching. It’s a marine-life hotspot because of the unique currents and deep trench just offshore. Whale-watching cruises operate all year, and while sperm whale sightings are never guaranteed, there’s a very high chance you’ll see them and dolphins, seals, and albatross.

Time commitment: Many travelers pass through Kaikoura while traveling between Picton and Christchurch. You only need a day for a whale-watching cruise, but extra days in Kaikoura can be spent hiking or enjoying the beaches.

Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula

Jutting southeast from Christchurch, the Banks Peninsula is a volcanic landmass comprising several volcanos. There are many harbors and bays, wildlife-spotting opportunities, and the French settlement of Akaroa, the oldest town in the Canterbury province. There are many 19th-century buildings there and cute French cafes. The Hector’s dolphin—the world’s smallest and rarest—live in the waters off the Banks Peninsula. (Sea kayaking is an excellent way to see them.) There are also many biking and hiking trails on the peninsula.

Time commitment: Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula are an easy day trip from Christchurch, but staying a couple of days will allow you to drive to more remote spots.

Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve

The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is one of the largest dark sky reserves in the world. In the central South Island, far from any major settlements, it’s almost entirely free of light pollution, making it an incredible destination for stargazing. Stargazing tours are informative, or you can find a quiet, dark spot on your own. You might also see the Aurora Australis (the Southern Lights, similar to the Northern Lights) if you're lucky. Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain (12,220 feet), is also in this area.

Time commitment: The tiny towns within the reserve—Lake Tekapo Village, Twizel, and Mount Cook Village—are a long way from anywhere, so these are not a quick getaway. Cloud-free skies are essential for stargazing, so you may need to spend a few days here.

Queenstown is not a typical Kiwi town—its real estate is among the most expensive in the country, and the style is more designer than farmer. But there’s no denying that Queenstown is blessed with beautiful geography as it's set on Lake Wakatipu with views of the Remarkables mountain range. Take the cable car to the top of the hill behind the city for spectacular views. Popular activities in the area include mountain biking, bungee jumping, speedboat rides, whitewater rafting, kayaking, canyoning, skiing in winter, or hiking the many trails.

Time commitment: Queenstown city only needs a day to look around, but it’s an ideal base for exploring the Central Otago wineries, trying adventure sports, and making day trips to Glenorchy, Wanaka, Arrowtown, or Fiordland.

Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula

Dunedin is a university town on the South Island’s east coast. Dunedin is the Scots Gaelic name for Edinburgh, and the Scottish influence is strong. The neo-gothic architecture of the University of Otago, the Dunedin Railway Station, and some churches lend an Old World aesthetic to Dunedin. The world’s second steepest street (as of August 2019), Baldwin Street, is also a quirky sight. (The first is in Harlech, Wales.)

A short drive from Dunedin is the hilly, windswept Otago Peninsula, one of New Zealand’s finest eco-tourism and bird-watching destinations. Drive (or take a tour) out to see the penguin, albatross, and seal colonies of the Otago Peninsula, stopping at Larnach’s Castle en route. 

Time commitment: Two or three days are needed here, divided between the city and the peninsula.

Fiordland National Park

In the southwest of the South Island, the Fiordland National Park is New Zealand’s largest, and it’s part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site. A vast area of forests, mountains, and glacial fiords, visitors can be as active or relaxed as they like here, on sightseeing cruises, scenic flights, or multi-day treks. The small town of Te Anau is a good base and has caves with glow worms. 

Milford Sound is perhaps the most famous sight, with pointy Mitre Peak rising from the water, offering perfect reflections on a clear day. Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapouri are beautiful places to cruise or kayak.

Time commitment: Some travelers visit the Fiordland National Park on a quick day trip from Queenstown or Wanaka, while others stay for longer to explore. The famous Milford Track trek between Te Anau and Milford Sound takes four days.

Stewart Island /Rakiura

Off the southern coast of the South Island, Stewart Island/Rakiura is New Zealand’s third-largest island. Around 85 percent of the island is a national park reserved for penguins, kiwis, and seals. While the temperatures are generally quite cold this far south, the beaches are empty and worth the trip across the Foveaux Strait from Bluff.

Birdwatching and hiking are popular activities, especially within the park's boundaries. The Rakiura Track is a 20-mile (32-kilometer) hiking trail that circles the Rakiura National Park, and it takes two to four days to hike the entire length. The small capital, Oban, is a welcoming town that serves up seriously fresh seafood.

Time commitment: As it’s necessary to get a ferry to Stewart Island/Rakiura (or take a short flight from Invercargill to Oban), it’s worth spending a few days here. Camping is a good option.

The Top 20 Things to Do in New Zealand

Where to See Penguins in New Zealand

How to Spend One Week in New Zealand

The Top 10 Cities in New Zealand

The Top 15 Things to Do on New Zealand's South Island

New Zealand’s Top 6 National Parks

Top 15 Things to Do in New Zealand's North Island

The Complete Guide to New Zealand's Great Walks

Your Trip to New Zealand: The Complete Guide

The 10 Most Beautiful Lakes in New Zealand

The 10 Most Important Historic Sites in New Zealand

Take a Road Trip on New Zealand's North Island

The 15 Best Small Towns in New Zealand

How to Go Backpacking in New Zealand

Fiordland National Park: The Complete Guide

Learn about New Zealand's UNESCO World Heritage Sites

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Essential New Zealand Travel Apps

During our year of working and traveling through New Zealand, we heavily relied on apps for driving, finding places to stay, finding bathrooms, wifi, laundromats, showers, water refills, attractions, communication, entertainment, and more.

I’m not being hyperbolic when I say that the apps I talk about here dramatically improved our New Zealand experience. These apps are absolutely essential for traveling through New Zealand, and I enthusiastically recommend them. Really, I’m quite obsessed! 🙂

Table of Contents

Best New Zealand Driving Apps

New Zealand driving apps help with navigation, and are really helpful to getting around in a foreign country. Make sure you have one so that you can find your way.

MAPS.ME is an offline maps and navigation app with downloadable maps. It’s the best offline map for New Zealand , and so so useful.

Many of the mountains and beaches that you came to New Zealand to explore have crappy or no reception. An offline map is crucial to finding your way. Yes, paper maps are great, and you should have one just in case you run out of battery. Even with no reception, however, your phone’s GPS tracking still works . With a pre downloaded map on MAPS.ME, you can see exactly where you are.

The other great thing about MAPS.ME is that it can still do navigation in offline mode . There’s no traffic information, and sometimes you have to double check the route it chooses, (sometimes it picks backroads even though a roundabout highway would have been faster), but that’s part of the adventure! MAPS.ME can navigate you out of the backcountry without cell service.

MAPS.ME is also great to have on hikes and trails. The great walk trails are all on the app , as well as many smaller and more obscure trails. You can actually check how much longer it is to the trailhead, and how long it’ll take you to walk there! There’s even an elevation map!

This app is brilliant, free, and absolutely essential for traveling in New Zealand.

Get it for iphone or android .

Google Maps

For areas with cell service, google maps works great in New Zealand . Just like in your home country, use it to navigate to wherever you want to go.

We opted for navigating with Google Maps in areas with service, and MAPS.ME for more remote locations that lacked a signal.

Best New Zealand Camping Apps

The following three apps are absolutely essential for finding a place to camp for the night in New Zealand, with many more indispensable features. I used these three apps every day while on the road in New Zealand, and heartily recommend them.

While they are similar in function, and you could definitely get away with only one of them, there are some differences in execution that make each of them more useful for certain things. I’ll explain exactly what I used each one for while on my New Zealand road trips.

WikiCamps New Zealand

If I had to choose one, WikiCamps New Zealand would be my favorite New Zealand camping app. WikiCamps New Zealand is, in my opinion, the best app for finding a campground or caravan park in New Zealand .

What makes WikiCamps New Zealand stand out is its filter system . Instead of just overwhelming you with results, this app allows you to select for specific aspects of a campground that are essential to you. You can select for type of site (campgrounds, caravan parks, hostels, day use areas, etc), and site features (free/paid, toilets, showers, water, etc).

This makes WikiCamps New Zealand the best freedom camping app in New Zealand. To find a great freedom camping location, select for ‘Show Campgrounds,’ ‘Requires free,’ and ‘requires toilets’. Then go back to the main screen (that’s the flaw of this app, you can’t go directly to the map, and it feels like your filters will reset. They won’t!) to View Map, and Voila! You can peruse all the freedom camping spots close to your location.

Once you’ve narrowed it down to a few convenient spots, click on a specific camp spot and go to ‘more details.’ Under comments, other users often leave reviews or useful information. You can also click ‘get directions’ to be sent directly to directions on google maps.

Another thing I routinely used WikiCamps New Zealand for is finding public dump points and free sources of drinking water for our self contained van. Do this by going to the ‘filter’, under ‘site types’ hide everything except ‘Public dump points,’ and under ‘site features’ select ‘drinking water.’

Make sure to download the maps offline so that you can still use it when there’s no phone signal. This capability makes this app really practical and convenient.

WikiCamps New Zealand is not a free app, and costs $3.49 for iphones and $1.95 for android . Although it’s my favorite app for camping in New Zealand, if you prefer free apps, you can definitely get all the same information from the two apps I talk about below. WikiCamps is just more convenient and I like it the best.

Campermate is an incredibly useful app for traveling in New Zealand. You can use it to find campgrounds, public toilets, dump stations, ATMs, wifi, and much more.

Although you can’t filter by features like with WikiCamps, CamperMate filters by type of location very well . CamperMate has over 20 types of locations, with the ones I used the most being campgrounds, public toilets, and public showers. I also occasionally used the laundromat, wifi, water, ATM, and Things to Do.

Once you select a type of location, you can view them on a map of New Zealand. Each location is color coded by type of location (green means free)!

Although I found that finding a campground is a little more user friendly on WikiCamps, NOTHING beats CamperMate for finding bathrooms and showers. Finding the closest public bathroom while exploring a new city is so easy with this app! Finding a free cheap shower is also a breeze: CamperMate displays free cold beach showers as well as hot paid showers at public pools, marinas, and parks.

The other awesome feature of CamperMate is that it you can use it to find Lord of the Rings filming locations ! Filter by ‘Things to Do,’ and then look at the markers that appear on the map. The green markers with camera on them designate Lord of the Rings filming locations! Reading the comments on these are super important: some of these locations are not that interesting to visit, while others are great.

There’s an option to download the maps: definitely do this before you get on the road.

CamperMate is a free app, get it for iphone or android .

Rankers is another great New Zealand camping app that’s useful for finding campgrounds. Other locations to search for include hikes, gas stations, free wifi, supermarkets, etc. All locations on this app can be rated out of 10 by users, and that rating is clearly indicated on each location’s map marker.

The most useful aspect of this app are the rankings and reviews. Each campground’s score is clearly indicated on its map marker. You can immediately tell the good campgrounds by how well they are reviewed, and usually people leave useful reviews on each campground.

In my personal system, I got used to using WikiCamps to find a couple of possible campgrounds for the night. Sometimes the reviews of them were slim on WikiCamps, however, so would head over to Rankers to see what they were rated, and read up on the latest reviews. That way I got the most complete information to make my decision.

Rankers is free on iphone and android .

Best New Zealand Attractions Apps

I’ll be honest, I’m a paper travel guide book girl. NOTHING beats a good old fashioned Lonely Planet guide book . So for me, apps for attractions, activities, or tourism are just for filling in extra details. I don’t rely on them to plan my trip, so keep that in mind when you read this section.

Tripadvisor

I’ll be very surprised if you don’t already have Tripadvisor, but my inclination towards thoroughness overruled my fear of stating the obvious. Tripadvisor is a great travel app that has attractions, restaurants, and hotel reviews .

I like to use Tripadvisor to make sure that my travel guide book didn’t miss anything. Personal reviews are really useful, and they fill out what my travel book lacks.

Certain tours and activities can be booked directly through Tripadviser, which can be really useful because you can compare the ratings and reviews for similar tours directly. I used Tripadviser to book a sailing trip in the Bay of Islands, and was very happy with the experience.

Restaurants are also great to find on Tripadviser, since restaurant turnover rate is so fast, and guide books can often be outdated.

Tripadviser is free on iphone and android .

Bookme is an app with deals on attractions in New Zealand .

It’s organized by geographical area, and you can view deals in list or map form. I’ve used it a couple of times for discounts on tours.

Look closely at the deals they offer: usually the discounted prices are only on certain days and times. If you’re flexible, however, you can score a nice deal! The discounts are especially good going into the off season for certain activities.

If I’m thinking of doing a tour or an attraction in New Zealand, I’ll usually check the deals on Bookme just in case.

Bookme is free on iphone and android .

Best Communication App

Communications apps enable you to keep in touch with your family and friends back home, as well as with travelers you meet on the way.

WhatsApp is the best messaging app . WhatsApp uses cell service or wifi to text, call, or video chat anyone else with the app. Most other travelers you meet have this app, so it’s the easiest way to keep in touch with new friends on the road.

WhatsApp is also best for keeping up with family. While FaceTiming only works for iphones, you can use WhatsApp to video chat family with all types of devices.

WhatsApp is free for iphone and android .

Other Useful New Zealand Apps

TradeMe is New Zealand’s version of Craigslist: a site for users to buy and sell used items . There’s also a section for job listings .

This app is mostly useful to you if you’re in New Zealand on a working holiday visa. It’s a great place to start your search for a car or self contained van, as well as to begin your job search.

I have more information on a working holiday visa in New Zealand, where I discuss how to get one, and have lots of advise for when you do. I also have a blog post on how to find a job on a New Zealand working holiday visa . You can read my guide to buying a van in New Zealand here .

Final Thoughts

I’ve included nine essential New Zealand travel apps in this blog post. These are all apps that I frequently used during my year in New Zealand. That allowed me to give a personal review of each app after a year of use.

Depending on your style of travel, you could find all or some of these apps useful, and I hope that they enrich your travels like they did mine.

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Experience the beaches and lush forest of the Coromandel Peninsula

Discover Rotorua's geo-thermal wonders and Maori culture

Visit the West Coast glaciers, nestled on the edge of the rainforest

Explore Abel Tasman National Park on foot or by kayak

Visit Art Deco Napier in the heart of Hawke's Bay wine country

Choose from a wealth of activities in adventurous Queenstown

Why this trip...

Tailor made.

This itinerary can be tailor made to suit you and is intended to give you a guideline of what is possible in a given timeframe

Explore at leisure

With the route, transport and accommodation sorted, each day offers the freedom to explore

Well-researched route

We've put our years of experience into creating this well-paced itinerary that includes the places we know you'll enjoy

This self drive 14-day itinerary is especially designed for the budget-conscious traveller wanting to experience the very best of New Zealand at an affordable cost. Savour the spectacular scenery and highlights of this amazing country as you start your journey in Auckland, the City of Sails, and travel far south to the magnificent alpine resort town of Queenstown.

Starting in Auckland, drive to the lush and tranquil Coromandel, travel south via Napier, New Zealand’s famous Art Deco city, before heading to the capital city of Wellington.

Journey across the Marlborough Sounds to the South Island where you can enjoy the arts and crafts of charming Nelson, the dramatic west coast and its superb glaciers, before travelling south to the Southern Lakes region, blessed with an abundance of stunning scenery. Spend time here and enjoy the exceptional wealth of adventurous or relaxing activities on offer.

On arrival at Auckland airport make your way to the Super Shuttle for transfer to your hotel in the city. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure. It is well worth getting out on the water to enjoy the maritime flavour of the City of Sails. You may like to take a wildlife harbour cruise and enjoy the informative commentary on the sights of Auckland. The Auckland War Memorial Museum is also well worth a visit. It tells the story of New Zealand, from its unique flora and fauna and its history at war, to its priceless collection of Maori and Pacific treasures.

Collect your rental vehicle and journey south to Whitianga on the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, perhaps enjoying one of many nearby coastal tracks on foot or by bike. Short walking trails lead to picture-perfect isolated beaches away from civilisation. You may like to take a guided walking tour with local experts, Kiwi Dundee Adventures, to properly discover this enchanting region.

Spend a full day at leisure on the Coromandel Peninsula. Perhaps enjoying a soak in the thermal springs on Hot Water Beach or a kayaking adventure at Cathedral Cove. Coromandel Town, at the northernmost part of the peninsula, is also worth a visit, with wonderful restaurants, bars and local craft shops on offer.

Make your way to Rotorua in central North Island. Rotorua is the spiritual home to the Maori tribe of Te Arawa and is set amongst a myriad of crystal clear crater lakes. Here you can experience nature’s awesome earth forces – bubbling mud pools, spouting geysers and silica terraces.

Enjoy a full day of leisure today in Rotorua and explore this fascinating geothermal region. Relax in pools of natural mineral water, wrap yourself in healing mud or treat yourself to a massage under warm thermal waters. Rotorua provides many opportunities to come face to face with the spirit of Maori culture. Experience the living Maori village of Whakarewarewa, visit the New Zealand Maori Arts and Craft Institute where you will see traditional carving techniques in action or take an extraordinary journey through Maori culture and mythology with The Realm of Tane.

Head further south today to Lake Taupo and then on to Napier, an Art Deco inspired town set in the heart of Hawke’s Bay Wine Country. Supported by a Mediterranean climate and over 2,200 hours of sunshine a year this popular year-round destination boasts a vibrant cafe culture amongst the splendour of its Art Deco buildings. After a long day taking in the sights, revitalize yourself by sampling some of Hawke’s Bay’s award winning wines and fresh Bay produce from one of the many restaurant, café and winery menus.

Head to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city offering an unforgettable urban experience in a stunning natural setting. Set between a sparkling harbour and rolling green hills, this compact city has great shopping, professional theatre, memorable arts, culture and heritage and great cafes and restaurants all close to untouched nature spots. Central Wellington itself is only 2 kilometres in diameter and you can walk from one side to the other in under 20 minutes.

Head to the Wellington Ferry Terminal for your scenic journey on the Interislander across the Cook Strait. You will take your vehicle with you on the ferry. On arrival make your way to Motueka, perhaps stopping en route in Nelson. The Nelson region is known for its year-round sunshine, golden beaches, boutique wineries, micro breweries and a large creative community of artists. Continue onto Motueka, the gateway town to Abel Tasman National Park, and your home for the next two nights.

Spend a full day at leisure in Abel Tasman National Park. Explore the bays and coves of this wonderful park, accessible only by water taxi, here you can go sea kayaking and see seals, birdlife, dolphins and possibly visiting orca.

From Motueka drive to the dramatic West Coast. The Great Coast Road stretching from Westport to Greymouth has been featured as one of the top 10 coastal drives in the world in Lonely Planet. Historic Hokitika is a place to appreciate the fascinating history of the West Coast. Here you can visit galleries specialising in pounamu jewellery and art works. The Arahura River, which enters the sea just north of Hokitika, is a traditional source of pounamu (greenstone). Gold jewellers, wood turners and potters provide other souvenir opportunities.

The hospitable town of Franz Josef serves the glacier of the same name. Stay here while you explore this spectacular World Heritage Area. Franz Josef Glacier is five kilometres from the town and a 20 minute walk will take you to its terminal face. From the glacier car park, you can hike to a choice of lookout points for a bigger view of this awesome river of ice. If you want to actually make contact with the glacier, take a guided ice walk or a heli-hike. Aerial sightseeing is highly recommended.

Your longest travelling day takes you down one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline on the West Coast. Head south via Haast Pass towards the alpine town of Queenstown, which sits on the shore of Lake Wakatipu among dramatic alpine ranges. With a smorgasbord of outdoor activities, Queenstown is renowned as the adventure capital of the world.

Enjoy a full day at leisure today in this wonderful alpine town. You can choose to be adventurous and enjoy activities such as sky diving, canyon swinging, jet boating, horse trekking and river rafting or simply relax with a gentle lakeside walk, a vineyard wine tasting or just simply relax and admire the views.

Make your way to Queenstown airport and drop off your rental vehicle before your departure.

Accommodation Options

We have selected properties for this holiday in a mix of hotels and motels. However, with a wide choice of accommodation in New Zealand, we can change to suit your personal preference mixing different grades and styles.

Optional Exursions

Kiwi dundee nature & coast adventure, coromandel.

8 hours | Year round

A personalised guided walk on the unsurpassable Coromandel Peninsula.

Mitai Maori Hangi and Concert, Rotorua

3.25 hours | Year round

An evening at Mitai will give you an authentic introduction to Maori culture.

Rotorua Diamond Sightseeing Pass

All day | Year round

This is a special sightseeing pass which allows admission to five of Rotorua's most popular attractions.

The Classic Art Deco Walking Tour, Napier

2.5 hours | Year round

Qualmark endorsed visitor activity. Levelled by an earthquake and the resulting fire in 1931, and rebuilt in the depths of the great…

Introducing Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington

1 hours | Year round

A tour of Wellington's cultural highlight at the Te Papa Museum. On arrival, you will join your Te Papa Tongarewa guide at…

Abel Tasman Cruise & Walk Open Day Pass, Abel Tasman

Price on request

Optional hours | Year round

This Cruise and Walk Open Day Pass allows you complete flexibility to explore Abel Tasman National Park by cruise and also on…

Dart River Wilderness Safari, Queenstown

6 hours | Year round

A braided and winding river system that is always changing, the Dart River is the perfect waterway to show off the thrilling…

Remarkables Discovery Flight, Queenstown

30 minutes | Year round

After arriving at the Queenstown Airport (a courtesy transfer is available from your accommodation if you do not have private transportation), you…

Safari of The Scenes – Glenorchy, Queenstown

Full day | Year round

This tour is dedicated to re-visiting the captivating scenery of Middle-earth from Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Milford Sound Nature Cruise, Milford

2.25 hours | Year round

Exploring the length of the fiord you’ll learn about the history of the region and benefit from the knowledge of a specialist…

Prices and Departures

Price from £1858 excluding flights.

Airfares start from around £825 per person and are quoted separately to the holiday price. When enquiring, our Travel Specialists will provide the best fare possible from your preferred airline / airport. Note: Airfares tend to be cheaper the earlier you book.

What's Included

• Accommodation in rooms with private bathroom
• Car rental throughout
• Interislander ferry crossing for passengers and vehicle
• Shuttle transfer on arrival
• 24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
• No surcharge guarantee
• Full financial protection

This itinerary starts from around £1,858 per person , based on 2 sharing a room with private bathroom in simple accommodation, and rental of a compact SUV vehicle.

Prices may vary depending on departure date and booking date, as well as any changes to the included components. The final cost of a tailored holiday will be based on the level of accommodation, size of vehicle, included activities, travel season, and how far in advance it is booked. We will confirm the exact price for your holiday in your individual quotation, based on your chosen travel dates and inclusions.

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This motorhome itinerary offers you a wonderfully independent self-drive holiday.

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Escorted | Rail | Classic Experiences

Experience spectacular rail journeys and boat cruises on this escorted group tour.

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Our tailor made approach means you can think of us as your personal planning service.

Every Trip is an Original

Whatever the brief we'll create an amazing trip to get excited about. We give you on tap knowledge.

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No-one likes a plot twist. As standard we provide complete piece of mind with our in country 24/7 support and guidance.

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We’re listening. We always care what our fellow travellers think and love building strong customer relationships so we continuously focus on improving future experiences based on feedback. How incredible for the last three years we have received the Feefo Platinum Award.

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Authored by Ted’s Cameras

Now that we’re allowed to head across the pond to visit our nearest and dearest neighbours, New Zealand, it’s time to reevaluate your travel photography kit to make sure you are ready to capture the best travel photos.

After all, New Zealand has some of the best landscapes in the world!

From the essentials, like the right camera and lenses, to the camera accessories, the expert photographers at Ted’s Cameras are taking us through what photography equipment to pack on your NZ holiday.

5 Camera Kit Essentials for Your Next Trip to New Zealand

A camera and lens.

Let’s start with the most obvious – you’ll need a camera and lenses to capture the best photo spots in New Zealand.

To make sure you capture all of the beauty of New Zealand, look for a camera capable of capturing a high dynamic range and excellent colours . For a portable camera option, go for a high-quality Mirrorless camera that won’t weigh you down as much as a DSLR.

What about your choice of lens ? Generally for travel, we prefer the versatility offered by all-in-one zoom lenses. They also keep your kit more portable, as you only need to take one lens with you for most of your photography!

Wide-angle lenses are the best lenses for landscape photography, but if you will be enjoying whale watching or photographing wildlife, you will need to include a telephoto lens in your camera bag.

Many of New Zealand’s most picturesque locations are found by the water and in wetter climates, so make sure your travel camera gear is weather-sealed and can handle the odd splash!

Filters for Your Lenses

A carefully selected kit of lens filters will serve you several purposes, from protecting your lenses from damage, to improving the look of your photos.

UV filters are a must , not just for travel but for everyday purposes. These lenses can live on the front of your lenses, protecting them from scratches and other damage.

Circular polarisers are great for landscape photography purposes, as they can increase saturation for brighter blue skies, and they can limit reflections on water and similar surfaces.

ND filters limit the amount of light entering your lens, giving you the chance to use slower shutter speeds, increasing the blur of moving subjects. If you are shooting waterfalls in New Zealand , they are a must-have.

Drones and Action Cams

The glorious coastal landscapes of New Zealand are just as striking from above as they are at ground level.

To achieve this unique birds-eye view, we highly recommend packing a travel drone in your kit. Make sure you take note of the drone safety regulations and laws of the place in New Zealand that you are staying.

If you are heading to places like Lake Wanaka and enjoying some of the many outdoor activities in the area, an action camera will be a worthy addition to your kit. New Zealand is known as the adventure capital of the world for good reason!

They are incredibly compact, so you don’t need to make too much room for them, while their rugged nature means they won’t get damaged. Most action cams are capable of POV-style videos, which also makes them a favourite of travel vloggers .

A Film Camera

Film photography is on the rise, once again. If you want to capture vintage travel photos, pack a 35mm film camera in your camera bag.

In addition to the amazing retro aesthetic, film cameras allow us to slow down our photography process , often resulting in wonderful images that we would have ignored if we always stuck to our high-end digital cameras.

While your film camera may not be your most used item in your kit, it’s good to have one on hand to add a touch of variety.

If you haven’t got your own film camera yet, you can either pick up a second-hand 35mm SLRs, or a point and shoot film camera which is incredibly simple to use and allows you to give your Instagram feed a distinct retro charm.

And don’t forget to pack enough spare film !

Camera Accessories

Don’t forget the following essential accessories:

➤  Tripod – Tripods are great for improving the framing of your landscape photos, and allow you to shoot at slower shutter speeds for waterfall photography and astrophotography.

➤  Backpack – You’re going to need something to carry around all of your gear! Go for a camera bag that’s weather-sealed and with ample padding, and with dedicated pockets for accessories, cables and tablets/laptops.

➤  Spare batteries and memory cards – Take note of how long you are likely to be away from power and pack enough spare batteries to keep you shooting during these periods. Also, make sure you have enough storage space on your memory cards!

➤  Chargers/powerbanks – Needless to say, your batteries will run out of power pretty quickly if you are taking heaps of travel photos and videos, so have a plan to recharge!

Your standard AC adapter can be used when you get back to your hotel, but consider a suitable powerbank or car charger to provide a burst of power while you are on the move.

With all of these essentials, you’ll have everything you need to capture the most beautiful places in New Zealand!

If You Liked This Post You May Also Like:

Things to do in New Zealand

4 Reasons to Add New Zealand to Your Travel Bucket List

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Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind  Waking Up Wild ; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

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• 12 Day Essential New Zealand Itinerary

• New Zealand Group Coach & Bus Tours
• New Zealand Independent Coach Tours
• 12 Day Essential New Zealand Tour

Tour Overview

Day by Day Itinerary

Documentation pack and support: we've got you covered.

When you touch down in New Zealand your detailed documentation pack will be hand-delivered by one of our trusted representatives. You'll find everything you need in one handy place: your personalised itinerary, clear instructions and maps, and reservation details for your accommodation and activities. 24 Hour Assistance:  We’re just a free phone call away if you encounter any issues while you're on the road - at any time of day or night. Don’t waste your precious vacation time stressing - First Light Travel are here to help you quickly when every second counts.

What's also included?

Welcome to Auckland!

Haere Mai and Welcome to the 'City of Sails'

Relax, you are officially on holiday! We have arranged for you to be met and transferred to your accommodation. The remainder of the day is yours to do as you please. There is plenty to see and do in Auckland . New Zealand’s largest city is located between two large harbours and 48 extinct volcanic cones scattered over the city are evidence of it's volancic past. They also provide a perfect location for viewing the city! A diversely cultural place, Auckland is a great location for marine adventures, wine tasting, forest walks and urban sophistication.

Some Activities and sightseeing options if you have time:

Accommodation Auckland - 1 Night

Auckland - Hobbiton - Waitomo Caves - Rotorua

Depart Auckland this morning and travel through lush farmland to Matamata. Take a guided tour of the famous Hobbiton Movie Set , located on a picturesque 1,250 acre sheep and beef farm. Here, the village of Hobbiton was carefully created in amazing detail as a film location for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movie trilogies.

During your guided tour you will see sights such as Hobbit holes, the Mill and the Green Dragon Inn, and you will learn how farmland was transformed into a living, breathing piece of Middle-earth. After exploring Hobbiton, enjoy a delicious lunch at the Green Dragon Inn.

At the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves , take a 45-minute guided tour through impressive underground caverns and learn how stalactites, stalagmites and other limestone structures were formed over millions of years. Your tour includes a boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto – glide silently along an underground river as you gaze at the twinkling glowworms overhead.

After visiting Waitomo and Hobbiton, continue to Rotorua, arriving in the early evening.

Accommodation Rotorua - 2 Nights

Rotorua & Maori Cultural Experience

Guests are picked up from their accommodations and taken through forestry and farmland to New Zealand's largest boiling mud pool. Their guide leads them through a series of colorful hot springs and volcanic features at Wai-O-Tapu. They then witness the eruption of the Lady Knox geyser at 10:15 am.

Following this, there's a short drive to the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, where their guide explains the Mt. Tarawera eruption, which created this spectacular geothermal park covered in bush. This award-winning eco-tourism adventure is a must-see experience!

Maori Cultural Experience The Mitai Maori Village offers you an authentic introduction to Maori culture.This indigenous cultural experience incorporates a traditional hangi meal, cultural performance, warrior canoe and sacred freshwater spring.

See warriors in traditional attire paddling in an ancient warrior canoe, view glow worms in their natural habitat and walk around at the sacred freshwater spring. Feast on a traditionally cooked hangi meal cooked in the ground. See displays of weaponry and combat, coupled with the grace and beauty of the poi dance. You’ll learn about Maori historr, carvings and ta moko (tattoo art).

Rotorua - Christchurch

Today you will take an internal flight from Rotorua to Christchurch  (cost of flight not included). You will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the Airport.

Christchurch There may be time for some last minute sightseeing or shopping before making your way for your onward flight. New Zealand’s second-largest city 'Christchurch' has bounced back after a series of major earthquakes, and has shown its resiliency with a number of new and exciting developments popping up everywhere. Don’t miss the Re Start Shopping Mall , made out of shipping containers, as well as the many funky Pop Up bars dotted throughout the city. All public services and spaces are running as normal, and Christchurch continues to be a vibrant city to live, work and play. 

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

Christchurch - Mt Cook National Park

Leave the city today westwards through the Canterbury plains , you will find a superb location for some great photos at  Lake Tekapo . Tekapo is one of three significant, neighboring lakes that border the Mackenzie Valley in New Zealand's South Island. Golden tussock grass carpets the surrounding hillside and roll away into the distance where the Southern Alps frame the horizon. The charming 'Church of the Good Shepherd' sits alone on its shores and the views to our highest mountain, Aoraki Mt Cook are remarkable. 

Accommodation: Mt Cook Village - 1 Night

A stunning destination surrounded by the silent splendor of the Southern Alps and with spectacular views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding National Park World Heritage area. There is a selection of properties within the Terrace Road campus from Hotel to Chalet and Mountainview Motels - all budgets and standards can be catered for.

Mt Cook National Park - Queenstown

This morning you will have free time to explore Mount Cook National Park. In the afternoon, head South from Mount Cook, pass through the high country towns of Twizel and Omarama before entering the beautiful Lindis Pass, the pass offers a unique mountain and tussock grassland scenery - Lindis Pass Scenic Reserve was formed in 1976 and was one of the first tussock reserves in New Zealand. Relax as you take in the spectacular scenery that changes from rugged ranges and mirror lakes to the winding Kawarau River Gorge before, emerging into the lush green farmland surrounding Queenstown . Your destination for the next four days.

Accommodation Queenstown - 4 Nights

Sitting on the crystal-clear shores of Lake Wakatipu, Novotel Gardens is centrally located - only a five-minute walk to town on level ground - home to prime restaurants and boutique shopping. Rooms are spacious and comfortable with views from private balconies over manicured landscapes, with the property being adjacent to the beautiful Queenstown Gardens.

Day at leisure Queenstown

Enjoy today a free day in Queenstown . The surrounding area is known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards and the natural landscape with wild rivers, high peaks and deep canyons has allowed Queenstown to developed an exciting array of outdoor adventure activities - and there's plenty to choose from. But if you are just w ant to chill out then Queenstown's compact downtown area is relaxed during the day and huge fun at night. In any season, you can count on stylish designer shops and many trendy restaurants offering a kaleidoscope of dining experiences.

Recommended excursions around Queenstown:

Spectacular Milford Sound Cruise

The Road to Milford is one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives. The first part is relatively mild farmland, then you’ll ease into beech forest near the entrance to the Fiordland National Park . Look for the Avenue of the Disappearing Mountain and the Mirror Lakes. The rough hewn Homer Tunnel brings you into Milford Sound , an amazing 22km-long fiord dominated by Mitre Peak. A cruise on Milford Sound will be an essential component of your time in Fiordland, or you can get up close and personal in a sea kayak. Tall waterfalls, vertical rock faces and seals are some of the things you’ll remember.

Dart River Wilderness Safari - TSS Earnslaw Cruise

Take today a one and a half hour of Jet Boating to the upper reaches of the Dart River, deep into Mt Aspiring National Park . Stunning mountains, alpine bush, glacial lakes and icy rivers are waiting for you on this spectacular trip. After this unforgettable boat safari, take a 40 minute walk through ancient beech forests. You will learn about this interesting area and its history before continuing to the isolated hamlet of Paradise - home to many Lord of the Rings filming locations.  

This evening you will board the TSS Earnslaw . Enjoy a scenic cruise from Queenstown, across stunning Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm on the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw. A delicious BBQ Dinner will be served on the sun terrace at the Colonels Homestead. 

Queenstown - Franz Josef Glacier

Continue today to Franz Josef and travel along the rugged West Coast Road and over the Haast Pass . Discover the rich alpine rainforest as you journey through this historic region. Through the Gates of Haast is a lost world that’s so spectacular and remote UNESCO designated it a World Heritage area.

Once arrived at Franz Josef, you will be met and taken on a short tour to view the Glacier. View the glacier from a viewing platform or enjoy a short walk. The Glacier Valley Eco Tours shuttle will bring you back to your accommodation. * You can only do the Franz Josef Eco walk in summer as the winter timetable has the coach arriving at 4.10pm. (this will be deducted from your tour price)

In the summer months there is free time to explore Franz Josef township. Perhaps take a scenic flight over the magnificent Franz Josef Glacier or over Mt. Cook, the highest mountain in the southern hemisphere or a valley walk with a local glacier guide (all own expense). The magnificent Franz Josef Glacier is widely regarded as the gem of New Zealand’s West Coast glaciers. Take the opportunity to experience the most spectacular glacier environment anywhere in the world, offering a range of glacier hiking options.

Excursions available in and around the Franz Josef area:

Accommodation Franz Josef - 1 Night

Franz Josef - Greymouth - Christchurch

This morning you will travel by coach to Greymouth. Then you will board the Tranzalpine to Christchurch . The TranzAlpine Train, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. Descend through spectacular gorges, river valleys and over massive viaducts before completing your journey at Christchurch.

Accommodation Christchurch - 1 Night

Bon Voyage!

"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage! Today we say farewell. We take care of your transfer to Christchurch  Airport where you will board your onward flight, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional New Zealand holiday.

What is an  Independent Coach Tour ? 

Tour Inclusions

• 4 Star Accommodation
• Experienced Driver Guides
• Detailed and informative commentary
• Travel in an air-conditioned coach
• 24 Hour Assistance
• Daily Departures
• Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• Maori Cultural Experience Rotorua
• Thermal Mud Pools & Geyster 
• Hobbiton Day Tour
• Milford Sound Nature Cruise
• Dart River Safari Tour
• TSS Earnslaw Cruise including BBQ Dinner
• Glacier Valley Shuttle
• TranzAlpine Rail Journey
• Return airport transfers - flight details to be provided 14 days prior to travel

Essential information you need to know before travelling to New Zealand. Download for free - simply complete the details below to download.

Free Custom NZ Holiday Itinerary

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The price is based on current exchange rates but is only an approximation. Please contact us for a final price

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This travel advice page covers New Zealand. See separate travel advice for Cook Islands, Tokelau and Niue .

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Your Ultimate Off-Season Guide to Campervanning and Driving in New Zealand

Embarking on a road trip through New Zealand’s stunning landscapes is a dream for many travelers. Whether you’re cruising along winding roads or soaking in breathtaking views, a campervan adventure promises unparalleled freedom and flexibility.

In this comprehensive guide, uncover the secrets to a seamless campervanning experience, from booking your vehicle to navigating the open road.

Before You Book Your Campervan

Driving in New Zealand comes with its own set of rules and considerations. Remember:

• New Zealanders drive on the left side of the road.
• Terrain and weather conditions can change quickly, so plan accordingly.
• Use the NZTA Journey Planner for real-time road and travel information.
• Check the weather forecast and be prepared for sudden changes.
• Consider traveling during the enchanting Autumn and Spring seasons for a quieter, more immersive experience.

Tiaki – Care for New Zealand

New Zealand is a precious gem, and every visitor has a responsibility to protect it. By following the Tiaki Promise, you commit to preserving New Zealand’s beauty for future generations.

Where to Book Your Rental Vehicle:

• Local travel agents for extra support.
• Rental car/motorhome operators’ websites for experienced travelers.
• Airline websites for flight + car deals.
• 3rd party online travel agent websites for comparison.

What to Consider When Booking:

• Check if your license allows you to drive a motorhome.
• Look for comprehensive insurance coverage.
• Book in advance, especially during peak summer months.
• Be aware of minimum rental periods, usually around 5 nights.
• Check Qualmark ratings for quality assurance.

On the Road:

• Familiarize yourself with New Zealand’s road rules and the road code.
• Always wear your seatbelt and use approved child restraints if traveling with children.
• Drive on the left-hand side of the road and be mindful of other road users.
• Plan your itinerary to avoid rushing and take regular breaks.
• Never drink and drive, and always carry a copy of your rental agreement.

Campervan Driving Tips:

• Be aware of the size and height of your motorhome to avoid incidents.
• Familiarize yourself with the dashboard and controls before setting off.
• Give yourself extra space when making turns and ask for assistance if needed.
• Secure all belongings and park only at designated areas to respect the environment.

In Case of Emergencies:

• Emergency services: Dial 111 for Police, Fire, and Ambulance.
• Record full details in case of an accident and contact emergency services if necessary.

Camping Rules:

• Stay at designated campsites and follow local rules.
• Use apps like Rankers or Campermate to find campsites.
• Respect the environment and locals.

Using Toll Roads:

• Pay tolls in advance or within 5 days after driving on them.
• Failure to pay tolls may result in a $40 admin fee.

Campervan Maintenance:

• Follow operator instructions for maintenance tasks.
• Know the fuel type and monitor battery indicator levels.
• Dump water at approved stations and switch off the fridge at night.

With these tips in mind, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable campervan adventure through New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes.

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It's all in the details. Level up your travel game with the Nere Slim Luggage Tag, a suitcase tag that's easy to attach and spot at the airport or in transit.

For a luggage look worthy of a fashion runway, wear this travel accessory with matching or complementary Nere suitcases, mini cases and more.

• Code: 3214233
• Style: Travel Accessories
• Brand: Nere
• Address Label
• Easy to attach
• Easy to Spot
• Silicone Material

• Code: 3214234

• Code: 3214232
• Easy to clean

• Code: 3210786

Protecting your passport has never looked so stylish with the slimline Nere Passport Cover in Tangerine, crafted in a silicone material.

Pair this essential travel accessory with matching or complementary Nere suitcases, mini cases and more.

• Code: 3211562
• Holds 1 Passport

Protecting your passport has never looked so stylish with the slimline Nere Passport Cover in Bright Lilac, crafted in a silicone material.

• Code: 3211414

Protecting your passport has never looked so stylish with the slimline Nere Passport Cover in Cali Pink, crafted in a silicone material.

• Code: 3211415

Protecting your passport has never looked so stylish with the slimline Nere Passport Cover in Mineral, crafted in a silicone material.

• Code: 3211413

Safe keep your beauty and travel essentials in style with the Nere Caype Vanity Case in Sand . This lightweight case is made with a quality ABS hard shell and features a detachable strap and plenty of storage.

Pair this piece with matching or complementary Nere suitcases and accessories to create a travel wardrobe that will turn heads.

• Code: 3208946
• Style: Hard Suitcases|Travel Accessories
• Size: Vanity Case
• Product Dimensions: 26(H) x 34(W) x 18(D) cm
• Packing Dimensions: 26(H) x 34(W) x 18(D) cm
• Weight: 1.1 kg
• Construction: Hard case construction
• Material: ABS/Polycarbonate
• Wheels: No Wheels
• Check In: Domestic Carry On
• Expander: No
• Zip Type: Self Repairing Zippers
• Locks: No Lock
• Bonus: Trolley Slide

All strapped in. Your next trip just got more stylish with the Nere Stori Vanity Case, a lightweight travel case made with a quality ABS hard shell, detachable strap and lots of storage space.

For a luggage look worthy of a fashion runway, pair this piece with matching or complementary Nere suitcases and accessories.

• Code: 3208427
• Style: Beauty Cases/ Wetpacks|Travel Accessories
• Material: ABS

• Code: 3204724

• Code: 3204737

Adventures ahead? Sort, store and safekeep your items with the Nere Stori 3 Pack Packing Cube, a three-piece set with one small, one medium and one large cube. Lightweight and available in a range of colours, it keeps packing fun and easy.

Dimensions of each individual pack cube are in CM (L x W x D)

Large Packing Cube : 54 x 40 x 9

Medium Packing Cube : 40 x 26 x 10

Small Packing Cube : 24 x 20 x 10

• Code: 3209064
• Style: Packing Cubes|Travel Accessories
• 3 in a Pack
• Folds away to save space
• Lightweight Material
• Organised Packing
• Zip Closure

• Code: 3210792

• Code: 3210791

• Code: 3206132

• Code: 3206027

• Code: 3209053

• Code: 3210787

• Code: 3210785

• Code: 3215427
• Brand: Antler
• Product Dimensions: 42(H) x 32(W) x 4(D) cm
• 4 in a Pack
• Breathable Mesh Panels

• Code: 3215428
• Style: Suitcase Covers|Travel Accessories
• Fits Suitcase upto 81cm
• Makes Bags Easy to Spot
• Velcro closure

• Code: 3215429

• Code: 3215430

Struggling to catch some shut-eye on the plane? The Nere Travel Pillow is perfect for those long haul flights where sleep is essential. You'll touch down feeling refreshed and ready to take on any adventure. Complete your look with matching travel bags and accessories.

The pouch measures at 11cm x 9cm

The pillow when inflated is 37cm (w) x 22cm

• Code: 3211133
• Care Instructions: Wipe Damp Cloth Only
• Comes with a carry pouch
• Comfortable to use
• Compact and easy to pack
• Easy to Use
• Inflatable Travel Pillow
• Made from Polyester & Spandex

• Code: 3211137

• Code: 3211134

• Code: 3211136

Protecting your passport has never looked so stylish with the slimline Nere Passport Cover in Orchid Pink, crafted in a silicone material.

• Code: 3211417

Protecting your passport has never looked so stylish with the slimline Nere Passport Cover in Oasis, crafted in a silicone material.

• Code: 3211416

Protecting your passport has never looked so stylish with the slimline Nere Passport Cover in Khaki, crafted in a silicone material.

• Code: 3211561

Protecting your passport has never looked so stylish with the slimline Nere Passport Cover in Black, crafted in a silicone material.

• Code: 3211412

It's all in the details. Level up your travel game with the Nere Luggage Strap, a suitcase strap that's easy to pop on and spot at the airport or in transit.

Size: 5cm x 185cm (fully extended)

• Code: 3209051
• Product Dimensions: 185(H) x 5(W) cm
• One Size Fits Most

• Code: 3210029

• Code: 3212300
• Packing Dimensions: 185(H) x 5(W) cm

• Code: 3209049

• Code: 3214951

• Code: 3214949

• Code: 3214727

• Code: 3214726

Small in stature with all the punch packed in, the Nere Caype Mini Organiser in Sand will store your small essentials effortlessly. This lightweight travel case is made with a quality hard ABS shell for added safety and security.

• Code: 3210425
• Size: Mini Case
• Product Dimensions: 10(H) x 22(W) x 7(D) cm
• Packing Dimensions: 10(H) x 22(W) x 7(D) cm
• Bonus: Adjustable & Removable Crossbody Strap

Mini case, maxi adventures. Store your small essentials in style with the Nere Stori Mini Case, a lightweight travel case made with a quality ABS hard shell and self-repairing zippers.

• Code: 3210370

• Code: 3210366

• Code: 3214053
• Weight: 0.15 kg

• Code: 3206031

• Code: 3206032

• Code: 3212301

• Code: 3214230

• Domestic Travel Insurance
• International Travel Insurance
• Make a Claim
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Travel Insurance

Travel a little freer knowing we're on the journey with you

AA Travel Insurance

Travel is part of the Kiwi DNA, but even the best laid travel plans can go unexpectedly wrong. That’s why we offer AA Travel Insurance plans - so you can travel a little freer here in NZ or overseas, knowing help is only a phone call away.

With AA Travel Insurance, your trip can be protected from unforeseen cancellation and loss of deposits before you even depart. So if something happens in the lead-up to your trip, we can be there to help you.

To understand what cover AA Travel Insurance provides for epidemic and pandemic diseases, like COVID-19, check out our FAQs . 

Get a quote

Why choose AA Travel Insurance

Get a quote online in minutes, so you can get back to planning your adventure. All you need are your travel dates, destination and any companions.

We’ve made the process simple, with domestic and international plans to choose from.

With AA Travel Insurance being one of NZ’s trusted travel insurance brands, we are proud to take care of Kiwis’ insurance needs.

We’re backed by the Allianz Worldwide Emergency Assistance programme, ready to help you no matter where you are in the world.

Playing at home or away?

Whether you're hitting the ski slopes or ticking a Great Walk off your list, make sure your trip is covered from unexpected costs like cancellation, travel disruption, and rental vehicle excess.

International

With three plans to choose from, our International Insurance cover is designed to make sure you can still enjoy your holiday even if something goes south.

AA Travel Insurance Benefits:

• AA Member discount

AA Members can get a 10% discount* on new AA Travel Insurance policies. Simply provide your AA Membership number when you apply.

• Cover for missed connections or travel delay

If you miss connections or have any travel delays because of an unexpected situation, you’ll be able to claim up to the benefit limit of your chosen policy. That means cover for extra costs to make alternative travel arrangements or additional delay costs.

• Free cover for dependent children

Dependent children travelling with someone covered under a policy can be covered at no additional charge (for Domestic Cover – that's up to 18 years, and for International Cover – up to 21 years).

• Cover for some COVID-related situations^

Both domestic and international options include selected cover for epidemic and pandemic diseases, like COVID-19. So if you’re diagnosed on your trip and need medical assistance or need to change your plans, you’ll be covered.

• Cover before you depart

Your trip is protected from unforeseen cancellation and loss of deposits the moment your cover is confirmed.

• Cover for recreational activities

Some recreational sports are automatically covered under our policies, including leisure skiing and snowboarding, hot air ballooning, parasailing and paragliding, bungee jumping, and white-water rafting in grade 4 rivers (or less).

For all of these benefits, please make sure you read the Policy Wording to understand the terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions that may apply.

^The policy still has a general exclusion for epidemics and pandemics, and does not cover disinclination to travel due to fear or change of mind. Cover is only provided if you have not commenced your journey against the New Zealand Government’s advice not to travel. There is no cover for lockdowns, changes in government alert levels, quarantine or mandatory isolation applying to a population or part of a population. Please refer to the Policy Wording for full details.

^Terms, conditions, limits, sub-limits and exclusions apply and these are stated in the Policy Wording . Customers considering the purchase of a travel insurance policy should read the Policy Wording to check what is and isn’t covered.

Have a question?

Our friendly New Zealand-based team are here to help. Give them a call anytime from 8:30am to 5pm Monday to Friday, or pop into one of our AA Centres to speak to a consultant.

Call: 0800 630 115

Frequently asked questions

What countries does my selected cover^ for epidemic and pandemic diseases (including Covid-19) cover?

All countries that do not appear on the Level 4 warning “Do not travel” advisory listed on SafeTravel.

SafeTravel houses all warnings inclusive of non-Covid-19 advisories which are issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

If I contract Covid-19 prior to travelling do I have selected cover^ for epidemic and pandemic diseases?

Cover is in place, providing that the country you are travelling to does not have a MFAT, SafeTravel or New Zealand Government Level 4 warning “Do not travel” in place.

If I contract Covid-19 in transit to my destination country do I have selected cover^ for epidemic and pandemic diseases?

Cover is in place, providing that the countries you are travelling to do not have a MFAT, SafeTravel or New Zealand Government Level 4 warning “Do not travel” in place.

Does selected cover^ for epidemic and pandemic diseases still apply if I am unvaccinated?

Cover is in place as there is no requirement to be vaccinated/boosted under our policy. However, if the destination country requires an inbound traveller to be vaccinated, then the traveller must be able to meet these entry requirements. This also applies to the condition of carriage for example of the airline they are travelling. There is no cover if denied boarding or entry to a country due to not meeting the carrier or country vaccination requirements.

Are there any mandatory epidemic and pandemic insurance requirements to enter certain countries?

Many countries, even before the pandemic, had compulsory health and travel insurance requirements, but many more have since added rules – typically around Covid-19 medical expenses and the associated costs. The coverage type and amount varies by vaccination status and country.  Prior to travelling, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination.

If I had Covid-19, should I declare this as a Pre-existing Medical Condition?

At the time of purchasing your policy if you have previously had Covid-19 and are now testing negative, are feeling well with no symptoms at all, then you do not need to declare this as a Pre-existing Medical Condition. A Covid-19 positive test result at a later date would be considered a new infection.

However, if you are:

• still testing positive; or
• still displaying Covid-19 signs and symptoms; or
• have been diagnosed with 'long Covid';

and you wish to have cover, you need to disclose the condition as a Pre-existing Medical Condition and an additional premium may be payable.

Our insurance partner

AA Travel Insurance policies are brought to you by the New Zealand Automobile Association Incorporated (AA), are issued and managed by AWP Services New Zealand Limited trading as Allianz Partners and underwritten by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473 (Incorporated in Australia) ("Hollard"). You should consider the  Policy Wording  before making any decisions about this insurance policy. Terms, conditions, limits, sub-limits and exclusions apply. 

Financial Strength Rating

The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473 (Incorporated in Australia), ("Hollard"), has been given a financial strength rating of A (Strong) issued by Standard and Poor's. View the full details on the  Financial Strength Rating .

An overseas policyholder preference applies. Under Australian law, if The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd is wound up, its assets in Australia must be applied to its Australian liabilities before they can be applied to overseas liabilities. To this extent, New Zealand policyholders may not be able to rely on The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd’s Australian assets to satisfy New Zealand liabilities.

Financial advice

The New Zealand Automobile Association provides general information about AA Travel Insurance products and services so that you can make a choice that best meets your needs. Information provided does not take into account your personal circumstances, needs or goals and is not intended to be financial advice. If you'd like to receive financial advice, you can get professional advice from a registered financial adviser.

More information

Contact us Policy Wording Make a claim Terms and conditions AA Traveller Member Benefits

*AA Members can receive a 10% discount on AA Travel Insurance. Simply provide each traveller’s valid AA Membership number on application. Discount applies to the premium for each AA Member on standard policy and any additional pre-existing medical cover, but doesn’t apply to additional cover for high value items.