Formed by two main islands – North & South Island – New Zealand has a rare beauty and landscape diversity: mountains glaciers, long deserted beaches, rushing rivers, tranquil lakes, deep volcanoes, geysers, mud pools. Ferns and mimosa plants inhabits the many national parks where it’s possible to glimpse at the rich beauty of this country. Through conservation and protection, New Zealand has managed to preserve some of the most unique animals in the planet including the bird symbol of this nation, the Kiwi.

The adventure seekers can thrill in many outdoors activities: excursions, skiing, trekking, rafting and the all-time favourite bungee jumping. Swim with dolphins, watch whales or fish trouts in the many streams and rivers. In New Zealand you will witness firsthand locations that inspired Lord of the Rings’ Middle-Earth.

Locals embrace a culture blending European and Maori treats; they are ingenious, caring and friendly people. To travel in New Zealand is easy and quick via plane, bus, cars or motorhomes. It offers many budgeted and economic accommodations. New Zealand promises to enchant you with its gastronomic delicatessen: gaming meats, fresh seafood, gelatos and awarded wines. There is enough to make your mouth water.

Travelers must hold a valid passport with at least 6 months left validity from schedule return date. From 1 October 2019 is compulsory to obtain a NZETA Visa (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) and to pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).

Visit the New Zealand immigration Department website for further information:

www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/options/visit

New Zealand is suited to be visited all year around. However, the best time is between November and March when temperatures are warmer and drier climate– like European springtime/summer. October and April also are good months with fresher temperatures and mild chances of cloudy humid days. Other months have more frequent rains or snow in some areas.

CLIMATE

New Zealand climate is influenced by oceans surrounding its islands. It enjoys a temperate climate, not too cold winters and not too hot summers with constant rains all year around. Seasons are inverted compare to Europe; during winter from June to August rains are intense in all the country and snow can be found on mountain ranges; lesser rains are expected during summer months from October to April. Conditions change between South and North island. The South Island has colder temperatures, heavier rains on the western coast but drier climate in the eastern coast, the less rainy region in New Zealand. The North Island has heavier and better distributed rains all year around. Auckland in the North is the rainiest city of the country. Sea waters are calmer during summer especially between December and February in the north while south sea temperatures are more rigid with peaks of 12° C.

New Zealand is a safe and quiet country where domestic travelling is easy. Many options are available.

FLIGHTS

Ideal for time conscious travelers and/or for moving from North to South Island and vice versa. National carrier Air New Zealand has a network nearly covering the whole country, Australian Qantas also flies among the main urban cities. Smaller carriers run essential services to small, remote islands offshore like Great Barrier, Stewart and Chathams.

Visit each airlines website for further airfares and times:

www.airnewzealand.co.nz

www.qantas.com/nz/en

www.barrierair.kiwi

www.stewartislandflights.co.nz

www.airchathams.co.nz

BUS

Bus trips in New Zealand are comfortable, efficient and affordable. Long distances buses often have air conditioning, reading lights, reclining seats and free WI-FI. Passengers can purchase a series of tickets or a Travel Pass. Once a bus itinerary is chosen it cannot be changed, however it still is a way to travel in total freedom. The pass is valid for 12 months and its holder can hop on-hop off as required.

Visit the official New Zealand Tourism website for further information on bus trips:

www.newzealand.com/int/buscoach-transport

CAR

Distances are relatively short, traffic is light – with exception of Auckland – roads are in good conditions despite not having many multiple lanes highways. Main cities have brief highways circling them, elsewhere roads have one single lane in each direction. Most roads are hilly and windy which can slow down vehicles.
Maximum speed limit is 50 km/h in towns/cities, 100 km/h on highways and people drive on the left side if the road. To drive in New Zealand is compulsory to have an international driver license or a certified translation of a foreign license. To hire a vehicle driver must be 21 years old & over and have been holding a valid driver license for at least 12 months.

TRAINS

Travelling by train is quick however not many railways routes are present in the country. Trains are modern and comfortable, rates often cheaper than buses for the same trip. Many train trips are breathtaking such as the TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Greymouth, The Northern Explorer linking Wellington to Auckland with 12 hours journey through volcanic lands of the North Island and The Costal Pacific from Christchurch to Picton in summertime.

Visit Great Journey NZ for information, routes and fares:

www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

FERRY

Despite being surrounded by water, long distances sea transportation is not common in New Zealand. Exceptions are Interislander (from Wellington in the North Island to Picton in the South), some ferries running between Auckland and the many islands in the Hauraki Gulf and between Bluff and Oban.

Visit Direct Ferries website for information in times and fares:

www.directferries.com.au/new_zealand

Local currency is the New Zealand Dollar. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are widely accepted and allowing to withdraw money in major cities. Be sure to have enough cash in local currency to visit national parks.

English is the official language in New Zealand. This country can be considered a melting pot of different cultures brought by its strong immigration history. Many languages and cultures are present in New Zealand.

Casual dress code is advised with comfortable clothing, trekking shoes, sweater and windcheater jackets, raincoat, warm clothes if visiting New Zealand during winter.
Different layers of clothing are the perfect way to dress and face different climate zones while moving from North to South islands and vice versa.
Weather changes quickly, you can experience four seasons in one day.
In New Zealand you will easily find what you may need so don’t panic if you forget something!

New Zealand voltage is 220-240 volts, AC 50Hz. European travelers will need an adaptor which can be bought/borrowed in airports, specialized retail shops or many hotel receptions.

For more information visit the official Tourism New Zealand website:

www.newzealand.com/int