New Zealand

New Zealand is made of two islands that are ecological havens full of unique landscapes. The propensity for adventure is unmatched and the inclusion of both European and Māori (Polynesian descendants) culture sets this country apart.

New Zealand's Fast Facts

Language

English

Capital City

Wellington

Currency

New Zealand Dollar

Budget Range

$$ - $$$

Visa Info (Learn More Here)

Find out what kind of visa you need here. Most people will need to apply for an electronic visa at least 3 days before your trip.

Regions of New Zealand

Quick Resources to Plan Your Trip to New Zealand

Itineraries

Know Before You Go to New Zealand

Kia Ora

kee-OR-uh

“Kia ora” is a Māori phrase used for a variety of circumstances. Often, it is used to say “hello” or “welcome” but it can also be used to say “goodbye” or “be well”. The literal translation has to do with wishing for health and well-being. This phrase is a vital part of New Zealand culture and you will see it written everywhere. Your tours will be started with the phrase and you will often be greeted with it as well. It is polite to either initiate conversation or greetings with “Kia ora” or to repeat it back to someone who has said it to you.

If you are renting a car or a van in New Zealand, you will inevitably need to refill your car with gas. For those with an international credit card, you will only be able to use gas stations that have tap capabilities at their payment systems. Other payment systems require a local card with a pin and your card will be denied. You can also go to stations that are open with a teller inside of the station and pay at the counter rather than at the pump.

When driving around New Zealand, it is important to be aware of the distances that you are trying to drive and the length of time that is predicted on a GPS application that you use. Often, due to the windy roads, driving on the left side of the road, and the beautiful scenery, distances will take much longer than the estimated time given by the GPS. Throughout your route, you will often find pull outs and viewpoints that are worth stopping at to take photos and enjoy the views around you. To best take advantage of the scenery, we recommend planning a road trip with 3-4 hours of GPS-estimated driving distance on any given day to best enjoy the experience.

Tipping is not expected or required. However, for exceptional service, feel free to include a tip. Most service-based interactions will not even mention a tip but you may find tip jars at bars or restaurants as an option if you choose to tip. It is imperative however to tip on any “free” walking tours because these tours are designed for you to pay the value that you deem appropriate. For these free tours, we recommend tipping at least $20 per person.