THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE TRAVELLING TO NEW ZEALAND

Planning your trip to New Zealand? Here’s everything you need to know to make your journey smooth and stress-free. From getting around the country to money matters, we’ve got you covered with the essentials.

Getting Around New Zealand

By Car

Driving is one of the best ways to explore New Zealand’s stunning landscapes. Most roads are two-lane highways that wind through picturesque countryside, with multi-lane roads found only in larger cities like Auckland and Wellington. Rental cars come equipped with GPS, which we highly recommend for easy navigation.

Note: Visitors from the US or UK can use their valid driver’s licence in New Zealand without any issues. However, if your licence is in a language other than English, you’ll need to bring an International drivers License to be able to drive legally.

By Ferry

If you’re traveling between the North and South Islands, the Interislander Ferry operates multiple services daily across the Cook Strait, offering a scenic and relaxing way to make the crossing.

By Flight

New Zealand has an excellent network of domestic flights, making it easy to travel quickly between key destinations. If you want to save time, flying is a great alternative to long drives.

By Train

While New Zealand’s passenger train network is limited, it offers a few spectacular scenic journeys worth considering. The Northern Explorer connects Auckland and Wellington, while the TranzAlpine Express—often ranked among the world’s most scenic rail journeys—travels from Christchurch to the West Coast of the South Island. During the warmer months, the Coastal Pacific operates seasonally between Blenheim and Christchurch, offering a breathtaking coastal ride through Marlborough and Kaikōura. For an elevated travel experience, consider booking Scenic Class, where panoramic windows and at-seat service add an extra layer of comfort to the journey.

By Bus

For those who prefer not to drive, New Zealand has a reliable and well-connected bus network linking all major towns and cities.

Visas & Entry Requirements

Travelers from the US, UK, and 58 other countries do not need a visa to enter New Zealand for short stays. However, you may need a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before arrival. For the latest visa requirements, visit www.immigration.govt.nz.

Money & Currency

The local currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Exchange rates vary, but as a guide:

• Here is a currency convertor from XE.com

ATMs are widely available, and major credit cards (Visa & Mastercard) are accepted almost everywhere.

By keeping these essentials in mind, you’ll be well-prepared for an incredible journey through New Zealand.

Tipping Culture

Tipping in New Zealand is not compulsory, as wages in hospitality are generally higher than in many other countries. However, it is appreciated for excellent service.

• In upmarket restaurants, a 10% tip is common.

• Rounding up taxi fares or leaving small change at cafés is a nice gesture but not expected.

• Hotels do not add service charges to bills.

Need help planning your itinerary? Journey South specialises in seamless, luxury travel experiences—let us take care of the details while you enjoy the adventure!