Travel to New Zealand –
THINGS TO KNOW
10 Top things to Know Before Travelling to New Zealand 2025
In this article we have put together 10 travel things to know before travelling to New Zealand. With its diverse mix of sights and experiences, is a mesmerising destination for any traveller.
As you prepare to travel the unique landscapes, from majestic mountains to expansive beaches, arm yourself with essential information for visiting New Zealand that will help you on your journey into the adventure of a lifetime. Dive into this comprehensive New Zealand travel guide to uncover things to know before traveling to New Zealand.
Isabella is a seasoned traveler from the United States. Her passion for travel has led her to exploring the world with her family, discovering new cultures and creating unforgettable memories.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on our site are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. This helps us to continue providing valuable content and supports our efforts in bringing the travel community together. We only recommend products and services we believe in and think you’ll find useful. Complete details are included in our affiliate disclaimer. Thank you for your support!
Key Takeaways
- Equip yourself with visa and entry requirements before embarking on your New Zealand exploration.
- Embrace Kiwi culture by familiarizing yourself with local slang and customs.
- Prepare for varying internet connectivity levels, especially in remote areas.
- Understand and respect New Zealand’s biosecurity laws to help protect the ecosystem.
- Anticipate weather changes with smart packing choices, ensuring your adventure continues uninterrupted.
- Plan for flexible travel dates to accommodate the country’s unpredictable weather patterns.
Understanding New Zealand’s Entry Requirements
Before setting foot in the land of the long white cloud, it’s essential to be well-versed with the visa info for New Zealand to ensure a hassle-free journey. Since October 1st, 2019, all travelers looking to experience the pristine beauty of New Zealand must secure an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) and pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).
Acquiring these documents is a straightforward process facilitated through an official mobile app or online via a browser. Here’s a breakdown of the costs you can expect:
- NZeTA Application: Obtainable through the official mobile app with a fee of $9 NZD.
- IVL: Required for conservation and infrastructure and comes at a cost of $35 NZD when processed through a browser.
Fees and what you can apply for
In total, you’re looking at a combined cost of $44 NZD if you apply using the app for your NZeTA and the browser for your IVL. These fees are pivotal in funding the essential conservation efforts and development of tourism amenities that make visiting New Zealand a remarkable experience. Do note that there are exemptions to consider. If you’re an Australian citizen or hail from certain South Pacific island nations, you might find that you are not required to pay these fees.
Remember, visa requirements can evolve, and staying on top of the latest entry prerequisites is amongst the essential travel tips for New Zealand. Ensure you check the most current regulations before you travel to avoid any last-minute complications. By doing so, you’ll be setting yourself up for an unforgettable New Zealand adventure.
Embracing Kiwi Culture and Locales
When you step onto New Zealand’s stunning landscapes, you’re about to embark on more than just a visual journey. The cultural nuances and local charm of this unique country are integral to your travel experience. It’s the everyday interactions, the food, and the technology that will leave their imprint on your memories. Here’s how you can fully embrace what it means to be in New Zealand, ensuring a successful and enriching trip. Also, before travelling anywhere you should also research the various crime rates and take precautions when travelling not just New Zealand but any country.
Navigating the Local Language
You might speak English, but are you fluent in Kiwi English? Local phrases can be charmingly bewildering. ‘Sweet as’ might become your go-to affirmation, and ‘chilly bin’ will be your picnic companion (it’s what New Zealanders call a cooler box). And don’t be surprised when ‘tramping’ means hiking and ‘jandals’ refer to flip-flops. Grasping these colloquialisms is a quick passport to Kiwi hearts. A tip for cultural etiquette: Showing an interest in the Maori language garners respect. Just a ‘Kia ora’ (hello) can go a long way!
Indulging in Local Cuisine and Produce Names
New Zealand’s cuisine is a delightful surprise for the palate and sometimes a linguistic puzzle. Order ‘fush and chups’ to savor the local take on fish and chips. Rest assured that ‘kumara’ (sweet potato) is a nutritious staple worth trying, and ‘capsicum’ will add color to your dishes, in place of what you’d call bell peppers. Dining in New Zealand is not just about the ‘tucker’ (food); it’s a full sensory immersion, so be sure to indulge in the fresh local produce and famed seafood.
Adapting to Quirks in Technology and Connectivity
In your exploration of Middle Earth, be prepared for internet access that’s as varied as the landscape. The North Island has generally better connectivity compared to the more remote South Island. Align your expectations with reality; 250 MB might be all you get at some free Wi-Fi hotspots, which is just enough to post that breathtaking Instagram photo, but not much else. But isn’t it the perfect excuse to disconnect and fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty? As for mobile service, prepare for it to be spotty in secluded areas – sometimes, off-the-grid really does mean off-the-grid!
- Learn common Kiwi English phrases for easier communication.
- Try using basic Maori greetings to show respect for local culture.
- Brush up on local food terms to fully enjoy New Zealand cuisine.
- Download maps and important information due to variable internet access.
Respecting New Zealand’s Strict Customs and Biosecurity
When embarking on an adventure to the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand, it is vital to be well-informed about the country’s customs regulations. As an informed traveler, your adherence to New Zealand’s biosecurity laws is a component of preserving its unique ecosystem. To assist you, here are essential travel tips for New Zealand regarding what you can and cannot bring into the country, and what may be subject to inspection upon arrival.
New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) takes great measures to prevent unwanted pests and diseases from affecting the local flora and fauna. Thus, it is imperative you understand that certain items are prohibited. Incoming passengers must declare any food, plants, animal products, and outdoor equipment that has been used in wilderness areas or on international waters.
- All food items must be declared or disposed of in the amnesty bins located at arrival halls.
- “Dirty” items, such as hiking boots, tent pegs, and fishing equipment, must be cleaned prior to arrival or you may be subject to cleaning fees, or the items might be confiscated.
- If you’re unsure whether an item needs to be declared, always opt for caution and declare it to one of the biosecurity officers.
Complying with these New Zealand customs regulations not only ensures a smooth entry for you but also contributes positively to the nation’s environmental protection efforts. Here is a checklist you can use to ensure you’re well-prepared for your journey. If you are interested in travelling further around the globe, then you should look into the things to know before heading to Portugal.
What can I bring?
| Item | Declare on Arrival | Allowed with Conditions | Prohibited |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh Fruit and Vegetables | Yes | No | Yes |
| Meat and Seafood Products | Yes | Yes (some products) | Yes (some products) |
| Dairy Products | Yes | Yes (conditions apply) | Yes (some products) |
| Packaged and Processed Foods | Yes | Yes (most are allowed) | No |
| Hiking/Camping Gear | Yes | Yes (must be clean) | No |
Remember, fines for failing to declare can be substantial, and more importantly, your actions can have a long-term impact on the precious ecosystem of New Zealand. Prioritize the environment and follow these key travel tips for New Zealand to ensure you play your part in conservation while enjoying all the natural beauty the country has to offer. A camera is always a good shout when packing your suitcase. The insta360 will be able to capture all of your adventures without making your bag too heavy.
Weather Variability and Packing Accordingly
Embarking on your journey through New Zealand’s stunning landscapes means preparing for a full spectrum of climate conditions. As part of your essential New Zealand travel advice, it’s crucial to understand the country’s mood swings. On any given day, especially in mountainous areas, you could encounter a chilly morning, a warm afternoon, followed by an evening downpour, or even a surprise dusting of snow. If you are a full time traveller and are planning on heading to Iceland, weather should be taken into account and you should check out what things to know before going to Iceland.
The key to comfort is layering. A breathable base layer, a warm mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer will have you covered, no matter what Mother Nature throws at you. Don’t forget to include a quality rain jacket in your luggage; this item will prove indispensable. Regarding footwear, it’s advisable to pack waterproof hiking boots for outdoor excursions and a pair of comfortable casual shoes for urban exploration.
Lastly, a savvy traveller incorporates buffer days into their itinerary, as New Zealand’s weather is known to be unpredictable. This flexibility in your plans allows you to move around activities around. So, gear up with these insights, and you’ll be capable of tackling the unpredictability of the elements while soaking in the awe-inspiring beauty of New Zealand. Also, always make sure you have travel insurance in case of emergencies. Safetywing has good package options while on your Kiwi adventure.
Concluding thoughts
New Zealand offers so much! The culture, the landscapes and the friendly locales. Remembering the correct clothes, visa requirements and what you can and cannot bring into the country will allow you to have the most incredible and easy access to the country.
With these 10 tips, you’re ready to explore New Zealand. Remember to respect the environment, embrace the culture, and enjoy every moment of your journey through this beautiful country.
Travelling to New Zealand FAQ
As of October 1st, 2019, most travelers need an NZeTA and must pay an IVL fee. Exclusions apply to Australian citizens and some island countries. Always check the latest requirements prior to your trip.
Local variations of English can be confusing, such as ‘Sweet as’ for ‘very good’ and ‘Chilly bin’ for a cooler. It’s useful to get familiar with these terms before you visit.
Yes, in New Zealand you might find ‘Capsicum’ instead of bell pepper and ‘Kumara’ instead of sweet potato on menus and in grocery stores.
Expect irregular internet connectivity, especially in remote areas, so it is advised to pre-download maps and other necessary information. Also, many ‘free Wi-Fi’ spots offer limited data usage.
You must declare all food items and outdoor gear like camping equipment and hiking boots may be inspected. Cleaning your gear prior to arrival helps avoid fines and protects New Zealand’s ecosystem.
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Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on our site are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. This helps us to continue providing valuable content and supports our efforts in bringing the travel community together. We only recommend products and services we believe in and think you’ll find useful. Complete details are included in our affiliate disclaimer. Thank you for your support!
