Located in the southwestern Pacific, New Zealand is an island nation. There are two major islands (North and South) and more than 700 smaller islands that make up this country. Covering an area of 268,021 square kilometers, it ranks as the sixth-largest island country in the world (103,500 sq mi). You can find New Zealand by traveling east across the Tasman Sea from Australia and then heading south from there to visit the islands of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga. The Southern Alps and other craggy mountain ranges in New Zealand owe much of their striking appearance to tectonic uplift and volcanic eruptions. Wellington is the seat of government in New Zealand, while Auckland is the country’s most populous city.
The New Zealand islands were the final large habitable land to be settled by humans. Polynesians began migrating to the islands around 1280, and by 1350, a unique Mori culture had emerged. The Dutch explorer Abel Tasman first spotted and documented New Zealand in 1642. The Treaty of Waitangi was signed between British and Maori chiefs in 1840, and its English translation recognized British dominion over the islands.
New Zealand officially annexed by Britain as a colony in 1841. Large tracts of Mori land subsequently alienated and confiscated by the colonial government as a result of a series of conflicts between colonial authorities and various Mori tribes. While the monarchy has remained in place since New Zealand’s independence in 1947, the country recognized as a dominion in 1907. The indigenous Maori people are the largest minority in New Zealand’s current population of 5.1 million, followed by Asians and Pacific Islanders.
The scenery of New Zealand’s snow-capped mountains
Images of mountains, glaciers, forests, virgin lands, and countless sheep come to mind when the name New Zealand is mentioned. The country widely recognized as a premier destination for thrill seekers. Everything here geared toward getting you outside and doing amazing things, whether it’s a hiking, skydiving, caving, bungee jumping, or skiing.
Numerous travelers stop in New Zealand on their way around the world (backpackers get all the working holiday visas!) to participate in one of the world’s most popular pastimes: backpacking.
New Zealand is a fantastic destination for any traveler, whether you’re a backpacker, a budget traveler, or someone who wants to splurge. All of my trips to New Zealand have been fantastic experiences. A lot of other tourists are around, the people are friendly, the scenery is breathtaking, the wine is inexpensive, and the people are welcoming. It’s hard to find a better country than this one.
Nobody has ever told me they didn’t enjoy their time in the country. You will definitely want to return after your time here. New Zealand is a popular destination for budget travelers because of its relaxed attitude toward luxury. Expenses won’t be minimal, but they also won’t be excessive.
Take advantage of this New Zealand travel guide to organize your trip, cut costs, and make the most of your time in this stunning country.
These are the five things you absolutely must do while visiting New Zealand. Fiordland National Park in New Zealand is home to a dramatic landscape complete with mountains and a sizable lake.
Visit Fiordland
Both Doubtful Sound and Milford Sound are part of Fiordland National Park, which found in the southwestern part of New Zealand’s South Island. The Chasm Walk on the Cleddau River will bring you within touching distance of roaring waterfalls, while the Forest Trail along the sandy Milford shore will provide you with stunning views of Mitre Peak. There are numerous scenic flights and cruises, as well as several multi-day hikes, such as the 4-5 day Milford Track. Doubtful Sound wilderness cruises cost 199 New Zealand dollars.
Helicopter Hiking
Helicopter hiking on the Franz Josef Glacier is an incredible experience. A heli-hike involves taking a scenic helicopter ride over the glacier and then landing in uncharted areas to go hiking. Though the two to three-hour hike is strenuous, many tour companies reward their customers with a relaxing dip in the Hot Pools at the end of the journey. A heli-hike will set you back about $485 New Zealand dollars. It’s not cheap, but it was well worth the investment in my opinion. Glacier Helicopters offers scenic flights for $360 NZD.
Bay of Islands
Some of the best dolphin and whale watching, beachgoing, swimming, boating, and seafood can be found in this region, which is located north of Auckland. The area is a popular weekend and summer getaway for residents of Auckland because of its tranquil atmosphere. Among the most significant historical sites in New Zealand found in this area: the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. It was there that the British and Maori signed what widely regarded as New Zealand’s founding document. Today, visitors can enjoy Maori cultural performances and explore two engaging museums.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Dive into the depths of these incredible caves with only the light of glowworms to guide you. It’s thrilling to float down rivers, leap over waterfalls, and gaze up at the “starry sky” in a cave. Through the caves, you can also tube and abseil (rappel). Costs range from about 55 NZD for a standard 45-minute cave tour to about 265 NZD for a five-hour tour that includes abseiling. If you plan on visiting multiple caves or participating in multiple tours, it is more cost-effective to purchase a combo ticket.
Do the Tongariro Alpine Crossing Hike
This epic hike near Taupo, which has called the best one-day hike in New Zealand, takes hikers through Tongariro National Park, New Zealand’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You start off in a volcanic landscape (including the location where they filmed Mordor in Lord of the Rings) and make your way past high peaks and sulfur lakes before entering a thick forest. The walk of 19 kilometers (12 miles) takes an entire day and is surprisingly difficult. The cost of a shuttle to take you to and from the trailhead is approximately $40 NZD.
Additional New Zealand Attractions
Bungee jumping
New Zealander A.J. Hackett (illegally) bungee jumped off the Eiffel Tower in 1987, launching the sport into the mainstream. Bungy jumping is now a worldwide phenomenon, especially in its homeland. The Nevis Bungy Jump, located just outside of Queenstown at an altitude of 134 meters (440 feet), is a must-do for any serious thrill seeker. Not as high as the ones in Auckland and Queenstown, perhaps. A single jump at Nevis, however, will set you back 275 New Zealand dollars.
Try out skydiving
Skydiving is another adrenaline-pumping activity that many tourists in New Zealand partake in. The sky over Lake Taupo is the ideal location for this. If you’re freefalling to Earth from a great height, it makes for a breathtaking backdrop. Tandem skydives with Taupo Tandem start at 279 New Zealand dollars and take you from 12,000 to 18,000 feet in altitude. To learn how to skydive on your own, you can enroll in a full-day course for $499 New Zealand dollars. Skydiving is also very common in Franz Josef and Lake Wanaka.
Abel Tasman National Park!
This South Island national park has tropical climates, thick jungles, and bright blue waters reminiscent of those in Southeast Asia. Extensive sea kayaking and multi-day hikes are just two of the park’s many outdoor attractions. The Abel Tasman Coastal Walk, which spans a distance of 60 kilometers (37 miles), is located here as well, making it one of New Zealand’s 9 Great Walks. Entry is free, but camping will cost you between 16 and 24 New Zealand dollars per night. You can also stay in a hut for the night for the price range of 26-52 NZD. Inns charge different rates at different times of the year. Abel Tasman Sea Shuttles also offers park tours by boat for $79 New Zealand Dollars.
Spend some time chilling in Wellington, New Zealand
The capital city of New Zealand impressed me as the country’s most artistic center. There is excellent architecture, unique character, a vibrant nightlife, delicious dining options, and interesting cultural pursuits. Visit the Beehive (where Parliament is held), take a cable car ride for breathtaking views of the city, explore the award-winning Wellington Museum and Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, and take a workshop at Weta Workshop to learn how to make movie-quality armor (the special effects studio behind Lord of the Rings, District 9, Avatar, and many others). Get out of town and visit the vineyards of Martinborough (149 NZD). Don’t be like other tourists and try to cram everything into a single day; spend a couple of weeks exploring the city’s rich cultural offerings.
Go whale and dolphin watching.
The country lies on the migratory path for many of these creatures, so no matter when you visit, you are guaranteed to see a large number of them whether you are visiting from the Bay of Islands, Auckland, or the South Island (though October-March is the best time). The area is frequented by several different kinds of whales, including sperm whales, orcas, and humpbacks. Most boat tours last for four hours and cost between $135 and $160 NZD per person.
Take to the slopes
When winter arrives, the South Island (especially near Queenstown and Wanaka) becomes a skier’s paradise, with snow-covered mountains boasting some of the world’s best runs. Lift passes can cost anywhere from NZ$105 to NZ$140, depending on the location, mode of transportation, type of equipment rented, and length of stay.
Relax in Rotorua
Rotorua, on the North Island, is well-known for two things: its sulfurous odor and its Maori cultural performances (which come from the geothermal activity in the area). The sulfur mud pits located all over town are responsible for their distinctive odor. The good news is that the region is home to a plethora of soothing thermal spas. Additionally, the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute is a must-see for anyone interested in traditional Maori art and culture.
Kaikoura Outdoor Activities
Located a good distance north of Christchurch, this town sits on the coast. Its peninsula location makes it an excellent base for whale and dolphin watching and mountain sightseeing. Sightseeing for Whales If you want to go whale watching in this area, Kaikoura is your best bet. They are a Maori-owned tour company that promises to return 80 percent of your money if you don’t see a whale during your excursion. In addition to the Maori Leap limestone cave, there is also an interesting museum and a few historic sites to visit.
Visit the Botanic Gardens in Wellington.
This garden is one of the most well-known in the country. There is a large native forest, a collection of plants from all over the world, a rose garden, and a landscaped area with a duck pond, sculptures, a playground, and a cafe. The park was established in 1868 and is a wonderful place to take a stroll or read a book, as it covers an area of 25 hectares (60 acres). Guests need not pay to enter.
Go for a ride on the Christchurch cable car
Go up Mount Vaendish in Christchurch in a gondola. The ride is only 10 minutes long, but it provides spectacular panoramas of the city. In addition to the breathtaking views, there is a restaurant at the peak for those who would like to stop for a meal. Most people take the descent route, which is also an option for those who want to hike up (the ascent takes about 45 minutes). The price of a ticket is $35 New Zealand dollars (round trip). Gondolas provide scenic rides over both Wellington and Queenstown.
Have fun in Queenstown
Queenstown, the country’s “action capital,” is one of the most entertaining places I’ve ever been. Outdoor sports abound (bungee jumping is the most well-known), as does some of New Zealand’s finest dining and partying. Everyone who visits stays much longer than anticipated. Don’t forget to eat at Fergburger, home of the best burgers in the US.
Take in a Maori performance
The Maori are the native inhabitants of New Zealand. They arrived from Polynesia in the 14th century. Learning about Maori culture is crucial for adapting to daily life in New Zealand. About 16% of the population is Maori, and you’ll encounter Maori symbols and words all over the country. While you’re here, it’s highly recommended that you take in a traditional Maori performance to gain insight into the people and events that shaped this fascinating culture. Rotorua has the best shows, and they cost between $150 and $245 per person (most are 3-4 hours and include a meal).
Excursions to Milford Sound
Further, Milford Sound is a fjord of such extraordinary beauty that it demands special attention. Milford Sound, in Fiordland, is famous for its proximity to the towering Mitre Peak and the lush rainforests that surround it. Stirling Falls and Bowen Falls are just a couple of the waterfalls that tumble down the cliff faces into the fjord, which is also home to seal and penguin colonies. Dolphin pods can frequently be spotted playing in the water. Take a boat ride and stop by the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory to learn more about the area’s marine ecosystem and see rare black coral and other marine life. Cruises begin at 59 New Zealand Dollars per person.
Take a trip to Wanaka
Located on the shores of Wanaka Lake and surrounded by snowy mountains, the town of Wanaka is a popular tourist destination in both winter and summer. Mount Aspiring National Park is a great starting point for exploring the glaciers, beech forests, and alpine lakes of the Southern Alps. Jet boaters, sailors, and kayakers will all find Wanaka Lake to be an ideal destination. The nearby ski areas of Treble Cone and Cardrona are worth a visit if you enjoy skiing or snowboarding. Visit Puzzling World on the outskirts of town for some offbeat amusement. It’s a funny outdoor maze and sculpture exhibit!
Visit Hobbiton
Further, Visit the Hobbiton set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films and feel like you’ve been transported to Middle-earth. It’s no secret that this is one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist attractions, so be prepared for a lot of people. You must go on a tour in order to see Hobbiton. The journey begins with a drive across the proprietor’s 1,250-acre (505 hectare) sheep farm, from which there are breathtaking panoramas of the Kaimai Mountains. You’re in a great spot to visit the Green Dragon Inn and the rest of Bag End. As a fan of The Lord of the Rings, you should not miss this. Costs for tours begin at 89 New Zealand dollars.
Stewart Island
Just 30 kilometers (19 miles) south of the South Island is Stewart Island. Approximately 85 percent of the island is protected as National Park (Rakiura National Park). There are only 28 kilometres (17 miles) of paved road on the island, but 280 kilometres (175 miles) of walking tracks ideal for strolls, hikes, and backpacking trips of varying lengths and difficulties. If you want to see all of Stewart Island’s natural wonders, you should take the three-day Rakiura Track hike. Ulva Island is a bird sanctuary off the coast, home to many native species that have been protected from predators. You can either take a ferry or a plane to get to Stewart Island. Flights from Invercargill take only 15 minutes and cost 230 NZD round trip, while ferries take an hour and cost 89 NZD.
Enjoy the scenery while riding the rails
Due to New Zealand’s rugged terrain, early railway engineers had to accomplish some incredible feats. While their rail system isn’t particularly extensive, the incredible rail journeys that can be taken are a direct result of their skill and perseverance. Explore untouched national parks, stunning coastlines, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific, and TranzAlpine are the routes available.
The TransAlpine was a fantastic experience that I will never forget. There are rivers, mountains, gorges, and lush green farmland that you travel past. It was the most memorable part of my trip to New Zealand and a particularly tranquil time for me. There are no words to express how highly I recommend it. There is a wide range of one-way ticket prices from 169 to 219 New Zealand dollars.
Go on a Great Walk
There are thousands of miles of hiking trails in New Zealand, but the ten Great Walks are the crown jewels because they take hikers to the country’s most breathtaking and recognizable landmarks. The North Island’s Lake Waikaremoana Track is a three- to four-day hike through ancient rainforests and scenic wildlife areas.
Tongariro Northern Circuit is a challenging three to four-day hike that takes you past active volcanoes, emerald lakes, and breathtaking waterfalls. The Milford Track, which passes through Milford Sound’s fjords, is just one of the South Island’s many extraordinary trails. Remember that Great Walks, because of their popularity, require advance reservations (and they can sometimes fill up months ahead of time).
Get out and see the vineyards!
The vineyards of New Zealand span an impressive 1,600 kilometers (1,000 miles), from the subtropical Northland to the world’s most southerly vineyards in Central Otago. Some of New Zealand’s most renowned vineyards can be found in the wine-producing regions of Hawke’s Bay, Martinborough, Marlborough, and Central Otago. Auckland, Gisborne, and Waipara are just a few of the smaller wine-making regions in New Zealand.
Places to stay
The Classic New Zealand Wine Trail is a journey through the heart of New Zealand’s grape-growing regions, and a must-do if you’re interested in seeing the best that Kiwi vineyards have to offer. Bus tours (and bicycle tours) abound if you don’t have access to your own transportation. The going rate for half-day wine tours with a small group is around $120–$170 NZD, while full-day tours begin at $200 NZD.
Dorm beds in hostels typically cost between NZ$25 and NZ$40 per night. Price ranges for private rooms start at 75 NZD but average around 100 NZD per night. While most hostels offer free Wi-Fi, only a select few also provide free breakfast. Check ahead of time if having access to a kitchen is essential, but know that most hostels offer this amenity.
A night at a cheap hotel starts at around $75 NZD. Even though budget hotels and motels do exist, they are typically located outside of the downtown area or don’t provide guests with a private bathroom.
Private rooms on Airbnb start at around $65-$85 NZD per night, while entire homes/apartments cost at least $120 NZD per night. If you don’t book in advance, you can expect to pay twice as much.
Furthermore, New Zealand is home to a plethora of campgrounds, many of which can be reserved for as little as $15 NZD per night. Many campsites run by the Department of Conversation require advanced online reservations (in the summer they fill up months in advance). Even in this country, Couchsurfing has become a popular way to travel.
What to eat in New Zealand
Seafood, fish and chips, meat pies, and regional specialties like Maori hangi are staples of the New Zealand diet (meat and vegetables cooked underground). Roast lamb, muscles, scallops, oysters, and snapper will likely be on the menu. Vegetarians and vegans can rest assured that they will be able to find plenty of options on restaurant menus across the country.
In New Zealand, a meal for two at a casual restaurant serving standard fare will run you about 20 to 25 New Zealand dollars, while a more upscale restaurant with wine pairings will set you back about 50 to 60 New Zealand dollars.
For about $14 New Zealand dollars, you can get a combo meal at a fast food restaurant. Takeout pizzas cost about $15 NZD, while you can get Chinese, Thai, or Indian food for $20 NZD. Fish and chips can be purchased from a takeout restaurant for around $15 CAD.
You can expect to pay between 9 and 10 NZD for a beer, 12 to 15 NZD for a glass of wine, 13 to 18 NZD for a cocktail, 5 to 6 NZD for a latte or cappuccino, and 3 to 4 NZD for a bottle of water.
If you prefer to prepare your own meals, you can expect to spend between $60 and $80 NZD per week on staples like rice, pasta, vegetables, and meat or fish. PaknSave is the cheapest supermarket, and it can be found primarily in large cities.
Tips for Saving Money While Traveling to New Zealand
If you’re not careful, you could easily rack up enormous bills in New Zealand. It can get pricey to eat out and pay for all the exciting things to do. You have to be selective in New Zealand. However, there are many opportunities to cut costs, and a trip to this area can be enjoyed even on a tight budget. List of money-saving options in New Zealand:
If you want to make the most of your time in New Zealand, I recommend learning to cook, because, as crazy as this may sound, the food scene here isn’t all that impressive. The cafes are pleasant, there is some interesting cuisine, and the food is excellent, but none of it has blown me away. There is good food, but it isn’t outstanding. Not good enough if you’re watching your pennies. Cooking your own meals is a great way to cut costs. The most cost-effective grocery stores are Countdown and Pakn’Save.
Don’t make a rash decision – In New Zealand, tours can cost a pretty penny. Even a few of these will quickly eat up your travel budget and force you to cut your trip short. Choose the activities that interest you the most and leave the rest for another visit. Check out the backpacker bars’ happy hours; drinks are cheap then. Drop by for a few cheap drinks.
Carpooling is a great way to cut down on transportation costs for your trip; all you have to do is split the gas money with your fellow passengers. Craigslist and CarpoolWorld are two places where you can look for a ride. In addition, you can find rideshare requests posted on the walls of hostels.
Time of Year to Visit New Zealand
Because of its location in the Southern Hemisphere, New Zealand enjoys balmy weather while its northern counterpart experiences snow and freezing conditions. The temperature range is quite broad, making this region ideal for outdoor activities year-round. The most popular time to visit is during the summer, which is from December–February. This is also peak vacation time in New Zealand, so things can get hectic. The days are long and sunny, and the nights are comfortable. The typical daytime high is in the 20s (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit).
One of the best times to visit is during the autumn months of March through May. There are fewer people, better deals, and nicer weather. Temperatures in some places, such as Auckland, are still quite high.
If you’re into snow sports, the months of June through August make for a fantastic winter vacation. June and July are peak months for winter recreation in Queenstown and the Central Plateau. On the South Island, it has been known to get as cold as 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit). The springtime (September–November) is also pleasant, especially on the South Island. Simply put, there is no bad time to visit, as long as you know what you want to do beforehand.
Advice for Traveling Safely in New Zealand
It is perfectly safe to travel around New Zealand with a backpack. Both major crimes and petty theft are extremely unusual in this area. But, just in case, you should always safeguard your valuables. Don’t risk having your car or van was broken into if you leave valuables inside overnight.
The area is safe for solo female travelers. But it would be best if you still took the usual safety measures (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).