New Zealand, a breathtaking island nation in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and vibrant Maori culture. From the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps to the pristine beaches of the North Island, New Zealand offers travelers a wealth of natural wonders to explore. Immerse yourself in outdoor adventures such as hiking, skiing, and bungee jumping, or discover the rich cultural heritage of Maori communities through traditional performances and guided tours. With its friendly locals, laid-back atmosphere, and unparalleled beauty, New Zealand invites visitors to experience the magic of Aotearoa.
Ultimate New Zealand Travel Guide
Destinations
Best time to go
The best time to visit New Zealand depends on your interests and preferred activities. Generally, the summer months (December to February) offer warm weather and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor adventures and beach vacations. Autumn (March to May) brings colorful foliage and milder temperatures, perfect for hiking and sightseeing. Winter (June to August) is the peak season for skiing and snowboarding in the South Island, while spring (September to November) offers blooming flowers and opportunities for whale watching and birdwatching.
Average Temperature By Month
January: 12°C to 25°C (54°F to 77°F)
February: 12°C to 25°C (54°F to 77°F)
March: 11°C to 23°C (52°F to 73°F)
April: 9°C to 20°C (48°F to 68°F)
May: 7°C to 17°C (45°F to 63°F)
June: 5°C to 14°C (41°F to 57°F)
July: 5°C to 13°C (41°F to 55°F)
August: 6°C to 15°C (43°F to 59°F)
September: 8°C to 17°C (46°F to 63°F)
October: 9°C to 19°C (48°F to 66°F)
November: 10°C to 21°C (50°F to 70°F)
December: 11°C to 23°C (52°F to 73°F)
What To Expect
Time Zone:
New Zealand operates on New Zealand Standard Time (NZST), which is 12 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+12:00) during standard time and 13 hours ahead during daylight saving time (NZDT).
Currency:
The official currency of New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). ATMs are widely available in cities and towns, and credit cards are accepted at most establishments. It's advisable to carry some cash for transactions in more remote areas.
Language:
English and Maori are the official languages of New Zealand, with English being the predominant language spoken by the majority of the population. Maori, the language of the indigenous Maori people, is also spoken, and you'll often see Maori place names alongside their English equivalents.
Airport:
New Zealand has several international airports, with Auckland Airport (AKL) being the largest and busiest. Other major airports include Wellington Airport (WLG), Christchurch Airport (CHC), and Queenstown Airport (ZQN). These airports offer connections to destinations across New Zealand and around the world.
How To Get Around
Domestic Flights: Domestic flights are available between major cities and regional airports across New Zealand. Air New Zealand and other airlines operate regular services, providing convenient connections for travelers.
Rental Cars and Campervans: Renting a car or campervan is a popular option for exploring New Zealand’s diverse landscapes at your own pace. Rental agencies are available at airports and in major cities, offering a range of vehicles to suit different preferences and budgets.
Public Transportation: New Zealand has a network of buses and trains that connect major cities and towns. Intercity buses and scenic trains, such as the TranzAlpine and Northern Explorer, offer comfortable and affordable options for long-distance travel.
Ferries: Inter-island ferries operate between the North Island and South Island, providing scenic journeys across the Cook Strait. The Interislander and Bluebridge ferry services transport passengers and vehicles between Wellington and Picton, with stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds along the way.
Average Temperature By Month:
January: 12°C to 25°C (54°F to 77°F)
February: 12°C to 25°C (54°F to 77°F)
March: 11°C to 23°C (52°F to 73°F)
April: 9°C to 20°C (48°F to 68°F)
May: 7°C to 17°C (45°F to 63°F)
June: 5°C to 14°C (41°F to 57°F)
July: 5°C to 13°C (41°F to 55°F)
August: 6°C to 15°C (43°F to 59°F)
September: 8°C to 17°C (46°F to 63°F)
October: 9°C to 19°C (48°F to 66°F)
November: 10°C to 21°C (50°F to 70°F)
December: 11°C to 23°C (52°F to 73°F)
Plugs:
New Zealand uses electrical outlets that are compatible with Type I plugs. Type I plugs have two or three flat pins in a V-shape, with the top pin acting as a grounding pin. The standard voltage is 230 volts AC, with a frequency of 50Hz.
VPN:
While internet access in New Zealand is generally reliable, using a virtual private network (VPN) can provide added security and privacy, especially when accessing public Wi-Fi networks.
Safety:
New Zealand is considered a safe destination for travelers, but it's essential to take standard precautions to ensure your safety and well-being. Be mindful of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. When engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking or skiing, be prepared for changing weather conditions and follow safety guidelines provided by local authorities. Additionally, respect New Zealand's natural environment and wildlife, and adhere to conservation regulations to help preserve the country's pristine landscapes for future generations.
Credit Cards and Banks
Credit Cards:
Credit card acceptance in New Zealand is widespread, with Visa and MasterCard being the most commonly accepted cards. American Express and Discover cards are also accepted at many establishments, although they may not be as widely accepted as Visa and MasterCard. Contactless payments, including Apple Pay and Google Pay, are also becoming increasingly common in New Zealand.
ATMs:
ATMs are widely available across New Zealand, especially in urban areas, shopping centers, and tourist destinations. You can use international debit and credit cards to withdraw New Zealand Dollars (NZD) from ATMs. Most ATMs operate 24/7, but be aware that some may charge a fee for international card transactions.
Currency Exchange:
The currency of New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, currency exchange bureaus, and some hotels. US dollars, euros, British pounds, Australian dollars, and Japanese yen are typically the most widely accepted foreign currencies for exchange.
Banks:
Major banks in New Zealand include:
- Reserve Bank of New Zealand: The central bank of New Zealand, responsible for monetary policy and regulating the country’s financial institutions.
- ANZ Bank New Zealand: One of the largest banks in New Zealand, ANZ Bank offers a wide range of banking services including savings accounts, loans, and foreign exchange.
- Westpac New Zealand: Another major bank in New Zealand, Westpac provides various banking products and services for individuals and businesses.
- ASB Bank: ASB Bank is another prominent bank in New Zealand, offering comprehensive banking solutions to customers.
Traveler’s Checks:
Traveler’s checks are becoming less common in New Zealand, and their usage is limited. It’s recommended to carry cash or use credit/debit cards for transactions. However, some banks may still offer services for cashing traveler’s checks.
Tips for Banking in New Zealand:
- Notify your bank before traveling to New Zealand to inform them of your travel plans and avoid any issues with card usage abroad.
- Keep your PIN and card information secure, and be cautious when using ATMs, especially in secluded areas or at night.
- Check with your bank about any international transaction fees or currency conversion fees that may apply when using your card abroad.
- Consider using contactless payment methods for convenience and security, especially for smaller transactions.
By understanding the banking system in New Zealand, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free financial experience during your travels in the country.
Locations
New Zealand
TRAVEL FACTS
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in New Zealand. Consult the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in New Zealand.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
For the latest passport and visa requirements for this country, please consult the U.S. State Department’s “Learn About Your Destination” search tool, available through the link below.
US Embassy/Consulate
[64] (4) 462-6000; United States Embassy Wellington, 29 Fitzherbert Terrace, Thorndon, Wellington 6011, New Zealand; AucklandACS@state.gov; https://nz.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Telephone Code
64
Local Emergency Phone
111
Vaccinations
See WHO recommendations
Climate
Temperate with sharp regional contrasts
Currency (Code)
New Zealand dollars (NZD)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): I
Major Languages
English, Maori, Samoan, Northern Chinese, Hindi, French, Yue
Major Religions
Christian 37.3%, Hindu 2.7%, Maori 1.3%, Muslim, 1.3%, Buddhist 1.1%, other religion 1.6%, no religion 48.6%
Time Difference
UTC+12 (17 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time); daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in September; ends first Sunday in April; note: New Zealand has two time zones: New Zealand standard time (UTC+12) and Chatham Islands time (45 minutes in advance of New Zealand standard time; UTC+12:45)
Potable Water
Yes
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Left
Tourist Destinations
Fiordland National Park & Milford Sound; Bay of Islands; Queenstown; Lake Taupo & Tongariro National Park; Lake Matheson; Lake Pukaki; Mount Cook National Park; Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers
Major Sports
Rugby, cricket, netball, basketball, soccer, sailing
Cultural Practices
You are expected to take your shoes off indoors. Māori people will often say a prayer (karakia) to bless food before eating it, and they may greet you with a kiss on the cheek.
Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is uncommon in restaurants unless the service was excellent. Some restaurants provide a tip jar on the counter. Tipping is uncommon in taxis, but you may round up the fare. It is not customary to tip at hotels.
Souvenirs
Abalone, paua shell, and greenstone jewelry; stone and wood Maori tribal masks, statues, baskets, and weapons; sheepskin rugs, merino wool blankets, chamois cloths, other wool/lanolin items; Rimu timber clocks, Kiwi art, wine, honey
Traditional Cuisine
Pavlova — a meringue-like dessert with a crisp Cornstarch-based outer crust and a soft and moist core; whipped cream and fruits, such as kiwi or passion fruit, are used as garnishes
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) – To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information – Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada – 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas – +1 202-501-4444
Central Intelligence Agency.
The World Factbook.
/the-world-factbook
(May 8, 2024)
