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27 Top New Zealand Packing List for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT To Bring

Overlook view of lake in New Zealand
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New Zealand is famous for its stunning mountains, beautiful beaches, and greener-than-green native forests. Known as ‘Middle Earth’ in the Lord of The Rings trilogy, it is a diverse country with mystical landscapes that almost feel otherworldly.

NZ spans several climate “zones,” so it can be a surprisingly tough place to pack for (there are not many places where you can go skiing in the morning and surfing in the afternoon!) To get the most out of your trip, it’s best to pack for ALL seasons.

Below you’ll find a list of items I highly recommend, a section on what to wear in New Zealand, what NOT to bring, and other FAQs. Enjoy your travels to Kiwiland!

27 Top New Zealand Packing List for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT To Bring
See our product selection criteria and guidelines here.

What to Pack for New Zealand – 27 Essentials

  • 1. Neck Wallet

    After having some scares with misplacing valuables while jet-lagged, I never make long-distance trips without my neck wallet. This is especially important for New Zealand since the travel time is typically so loooong. When you’re a tired tourist getting off the plane into a new city, you have a target on the back of your head that pickpockets can spot from a mile away. But with a neck wallet, it’s practically impossible for thieves to steal since you can keep your passport, phone, credit cards, and cash all concealed under your clothing. This one also has RFID-blocking material to prevent e-thieves from scanning your bag.

    Neck Wallet

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 2. Jet Lag Relief (Natural)

    It’s a lengthy trip to New Zealand from the States (roughly 13-18 hours with a non-stop commute), and the time change is fairly significant. Travel days are hard enough without jet lag adding to your stress, so gameplan smarter with these natural jet-lag tablets. They’re actually MADE in New Zealand but sold worldwide. Formulated with botanical ingredients like chamomile and daisy flowers, they’ve noticeably impacted my energy levels while traveling and I can’t recommend them enough.

    jet lag relief

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    The risk of cyberattacks is steadily going up and hackers will take some extreme measures to obtain your personal info. A VPN adds an additional layer of security to your browsing and data to help protect you from identity theft or other hacking issues. If I’d used one in Paris when I traveled there recently, I would have avoided having my credit card information stolen… This is more common than you think when using free Wi-Fi networks at cafes, hotels, Airbnbs, airports, and more.

    A VPN also allows you to browse the internet despite restrictions and any country-specific censorship, so it’s one of the smartest subscriptions you can have if you travel at all – and also one of the cheapest. Bonus tip: It will get you deals on flights and certain websites since they can’t track your IP address or price-gouge you based on location! We use our VPN at home and every time we travel.

    Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    View NordVPN.com Options ➜

  • 4. NZ Power Adapter

    Since NZ has a different outlet type than most countries, you will need to bring a power adapter. Make sure you choose a high-quality one with fuse protection that prevents your devices from getting fried – you don’t want to risk damaging your phone, laptop, kindle, camera, or any other precious device. This adapter is our go-to because it works in over 100 popular countries and comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee.

    NZ Power Adapter

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 5. Water-Resistant Travel Backpack

    You’re definitely going to want to bring a day bag of some kind, and a backpack-style bag will save your back and shoulders a lot of tension and pain. This one is large enough to hold the daily essentials – water bottle, rain jacket, money, passport, camera, etc. – but also lightweight enough to keep from adding to your already heavy travel load. It’s comfortable to carry since it’s made for exploring and compacts down into a small rectangular pouch when you don’t need it.

    Water-Resistant Travel Backpack

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 6. Travel Insurance For New Zealand

    One of the biggest mistakes I see travelers make is overlooking travel insurance. Your health insurance does not extend to medical incidents that occur while abroad, so you could be left paying out-of-pocket for extremely high hospital bills. This includes Medicare and Medicaid, which only cover you domestically.

    Don’t leave yourself vulnerable to potentially five-figure expenses that are mitigated with an affordable plan. It will also cover common travel issues like baggage loss, flight delays, cancelations, theft, evacuations, and more. We recommend Faye Travel Insurance to find the plan that best suits your needs. They handle everything through their mobile app so you can get reimbursed faster (without all the drudgery and paperwork!) We’re thrilled that they offer the ability to cancel your trip “for any reason,” which we’ve taken them up on once when we had to postpone our vacation!

    Faye Travel Insurance

    Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

  • 7. Packing Cubes

    Organization is one of the keys to an elevated traveling experience, and it doesn’t get much more organized than packing cubes. Once you travel with them, you won’t want to suffer through another discombobulated suitcase or dig around to find basic things ever again.

    These luxury organizers have labels on each cube, a variety of sizes, and several colors for each family member. They make packing much easier, as well as transferring items to and from your daybag. The bonus laundry bags seriously sweeten the deal!

    packing cubes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 8. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

    A small portable charger is always wise when traveling, especially since you might be at the beach, exploring cities like Auckland and Queenstown, or hiking through the wilderness with no power outlets nearby. This charger is the size of a lipstick tube and holds multiple charges so you can power all of your devices while on the go. You’ll be thankful to have navigation and internet access in case of an emergency. We never travel without it.

    Lipstick-Sized Charger

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 9. Windproof Travel Umbrella

    New Zealand demands a trustworthy travel umbrella. Weather varies from region to region, and you never know when you’ll need to ward off a sudden rainfall. This umbrella is especially nice because it’s windproof and large enough for two people yet still lightweight and compact. The carrying case is a useful accessory so you can store a wet umbrella in your bag once grey clouds have passed.

    travel umbrella

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 10. Hanging Toiletry Bag

    Wanderlust involves lugging around a lot of toiletries, skincare, and styling items – while running the risk that liquids are going to explode all over your suitcase. Maintain your routine (and your sanity!) by packing every liquid in this hanging toiletries bag. It hooks onto any door, shower pole, branch, etc., and really saves the day when countertop space is limited.

    This one by Eco Sun comes with a lifetime happiness guarantee so you are sure to fall in love. It holds way more products than I would’ve guessed, almost giving you a shelf-like system in your home away from home. P.S. I haven’t had any spills since purchasing this because everything is so tightly and compactly stored. Intuitive organization is HERE and everything is at eye-leve babyl, woo-hoo!

    hanging toiletry bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 11. Waterproof Hiking Shoes

    With glaciers, national parks, and sweeping cities to explore, you will be doing a considerable amount of walking. It’s best to have sturdy, broken-in hiking shoes for New Zealand so that you don’t risk hurting your feet or ankles hiking in regular sneakers. This pair is waterproof and the brand is known for its comfort and durability. I’ve used them to trek through dozens of countries and they haven’t failed me yet!

    Hiking Shoe

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 12. Compression Flight Socks

    If you’re in good shape, you may be thinking, “compression socks, really?!” But let me tell you that flying for 15-20 hours, possibly 25-30 if you have layovers or stops, makes anyone’s ankles swell (no matter your age or how many hours you spend at CrossFit). Blood clots are more common on long flights which is why flight attendants commonly wear compression socks or stockings. They will help you maintain blood flow and increase circulation in your legs and feet, all while reducing the potential for pain or swelling so you don’t feel like the marshmallow man when you touch down.

    compression flight socks

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 13. Universal Waterproof Phone Case

    Whether you’re horseback riding along the white-sand shores of Northland, boating through the glow worm caves, or hiking through the river valleys – your phone will need protection from the elements. This phone case has been a miracle worker for my family, saving our phones on multiple occasions and still allowing us to record underwater videos when snorkeling. They also make a version for your eReader, which you may want to consider if you plan to read on your trip!

    waterproof phone pouch

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 14. Discounted Tickets for New Zealand Attractions

    There are so many awe-inspiring things to do in New Zealand, and you’ll want to experience everything this destination has to offer. Visit the Lord of The Rings Hobbit house, take a rapid’s adventure down the Waikato River, and get closer to nature at the underwater observatory.

    Foodies will love the Queenstown BBQ tour, while adventurers may opt for a glacier and helicopter tour or boating through the enchanting glow worm caves. We also recommend day trips to majestic Milford Sound and the lush wineries of Waiheke Island.

    Get Your Guide is our preferred booking service for the best that a destination has to offer. They allow cancellations up to 24-hours notice of your activity, making it easy to shape-shift your itinerary and remain adaptable if plans change.

    get your guide

    See all New Zealand attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

  • 15. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

    When traveling internationally, you should play it safe and always secure your luggage with luggage locks. You never know who’s coming in contact with your bags, especially when they’re checked for international travel. I like this set because they are TSA-approved and made by a reputable travel brand. They’re 10x harder to crack than a typical 3-digit lock, so I use them for suitcases, lockers, hotels, and on my backpack when exploring crowded areas that are preyed upon by sticky fingers.

    luggage locks

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 16. Dry Bag

    New Zealand has more ways to soak your belongings than you might imagine. With boat cruises, snorkeling, diving, river rafting, and everything in between – you should invest in an inexpensive dry bag. You don’t want to watch your cash crumble into a ball of nothingness, trust us. We’ve used this bag for tubing down the river and to combat the wet floorboards of dingy boats. It’s been submerged a few times and everything comes out 100% dry.

    Dry Bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 17. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

    Carrying a portable towel with you is always handy since you never know when you’ll need to dry off while adventuring. It’s also good to bear in mind that some accommodations may not provide towels, so having a quick-drying one like this is a good solution. It can be carried easily in your daybag and will be much lighter than bulky ones that can get in the way during extensive hikes. Plus, it dries 10x faster than cotton and is incredibly soft too.

    quick-dry travel microfiber towel

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 18. Stylish Warm Jacket

    New Zealand is a magical land where you can be freezing on a glacier in one moment and then sunbathing at a tropical beach by the next. The climate varies WILDLY and their seasons are opposite of the U.S. (most travelers know that June/July is peak travel season for American tourists when kids get out of school. But for NZ, this is the peak of winter and the coldest time of the year!) The secret to success will be layering and preparing for rapidly-changing weather conditions. This warm jacket is a safe bet because it’s fast-drying, lightweight, and mega stylish.

     Stylish Warm Jacket

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 19. Touchscreen-Friendly Gloves

    Spare your hands from the cold with sleek winter gloves. These offer the best of both worlds – thermal protection and the ability to wick away moisture. For outdoor activities or driving in harsh sunlight, these gloves are lightweight, soft, and still allow you to use the touchscreen on your phone. The palms have a non-slip silicone material that makes them great for thrillseekers, bikers, etc.

    Touchscreen-Friendly Gloves

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 20. Wool Headband

    Regardless of the season, a warm headband will be of great comfort to you in New Zealand. We lose heat through our heads, so a wrap will keep you feeling toasty even during chilly activities like whale-watching or snowboarding down Mount Ruapehu. Even in the summer, temperatures are colder in the south and you will appreciate having a cozy accessory. This brand support working mothers in Nepal, honoring 1,000 years of complex weaving technique that’s been passed on for generations.

    white headband hat

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 21. Activated Charcoal (Food Poisoning Fix)

    Almost every traveler I know has experienced some kind of stomach upset – most frequently Traveler’s Diarrhea – as a result of long journeys, new foods, and the general physical stress of traveling. Activated charcoal has provided me quite a lot of relief, and now I take it with me wherever I go (I even use it at home if need be!) It absorbs toxins in your system if there are any, and it helps return your digestion to normal so that you can go on enjoying your trip instead of feeling unwell.

    Activated Charcoal (Food Poisoning Fix)

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 22. Deet-Free Mosquito Wristbands

    Let’s be honest… The mosquitos and sandflies of NZ are a nuisance! Although there are no insect-related diseases in the country, the bites are still itchy, annoying, and uncomfortable. We buy these wristbands for our family because they’re deet-free and non-toxic; it’s also much more convenient than constantly spraying and respraying those strong nasty fumes. Made with essential oils like citronella and lemongrass, these wristbands deter bugs the natural way and in my experience, provide the most effective defense.

    Deet-Free Mosquito Wristbands

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 23. Water Bottle With Built-In Filter

    You’re not going to have a hard time finding safe water to drink in New Zealand, but if you’re doing a day hike and need some water from a mountain stream, this is a great way to be sure it’s safe to drink. Opting for a filtered water bottle is a smart precaution because you’ll have an easy and free way to stay hydrated without having to purchase plastic water bottles. It will reduce the taste of heavy chlorine purification and filter out bacteria, sand, and sediment.

    Water Bottle With Built-In Filter

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 24. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

    Shopping in New Zealand is not to be missed – with predominantly European and indigenous Māori influence, the culture of NZ is distinct and deliciously collectible. This ‘just in case’ bag is a great pack-along for those purchases you may make. It takes up zero space when empty but can serve as your carry-on item for the flight home that fits under your plane seat.

    Fill it up with goodies and handmade gifts that your loved ones will treasure – some local goods we recommend are: Merino wool, Māori crafts, jade necklaces, Tuatara coffee, Manuka honey, woodwork, and LOTR memorability.

    Just in Case bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 25. Quick-Dry Convertible Pants/Shorts

    This is an item I bring on all trips that involve hiking, simply because I often start activities in the morning when it’s cooler, and finish the day when it’s later and much warmer. The transition from cold weather to warm weather is super easy when you can zip off part of your pants to make them into breathable and lightweight shorts. These pants are also quick-drying, a necessary bonus when you’re in humid or water-rich areas.

    convertible hiking pants beige

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 26. "Gumboots" (AKA Rain Boots)

    Rubber boots (known as ‘gumboots’ in NZ) will add convenience to your adventures through the many terrains of Middle Earth. Most people don’t realize that it rains nearly as much in NZ as in the UK, so you’ll need a pair of shoes that function in rain, snow, and mud to keep your feet dry. There’s a reason the locals refer to gumboots as ‘essential footwear’ – they will save you in a surprise downpour! This brand is very cute and has many beautiful designs to choose from.

    wellies rain boots for europe

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 27. Gorgeous Jumpsuit

    Last but not least, any getaway calls for a stunning outfit. Your sundress or beachwear won’t quite cut it for nights out on the town, so try this chic jumpsuit that feels modern yet classic all at once. It’s elegant, comfortable, and complements many body types because it cinches at the waist but flairs out around the hips. This gives it a very relaxed (almost dress-like) style that’s undeniably timeless.

    Jumpsuit

    View on Amazon.com ➜

What to Wear in New Zealand

Warm layers are your friend if you are planning to visit New Zealand during winter, as the South Island can drop down to 14°F! (-10°C). If you’re planning a visit in the warmer months, pack a light raincoat. It is also really important to remember your sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect your skin from the sun, as well as your swimsuit, so you can enjoy a dip in the ocean! The winters can be cold but the summers are warm and pleasant.

What should WOMEN wear in New Zealand? – (Click to expand)
Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

For a destination as diverse as New Zealand, check the weather before your departure and pack accordingly. If you’re planning lots of outdoor excursions or even hiking, ensure you pack reasonable footwear with a suitable grip. It’s also important to note, Kiwis tend to be quite laid back when it comes to their outlook on life and their style. You may notice many people not even wearing shoes, let alone dressing up for the weekend. Therefore, your fancy best heels can probably stay at home this time.

That’s not to say there’s no need to get dressed up if you’re planning fancy dinners and nights out in the city. New Zealand has so much to offer a traveler, so you’ll definitely have ample choices when it comes to activities! Nighttime does mean a drop in temperature year-round, so pack a shawl, comfy layers, and a warm scarf.

What should MEN wear in New Zealand? – (Click to expand)
Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Casual and comfy attire is very much welcomed in New Zealand. If you are planning on having fancy, extravagant dinners and nights out in the city, then a normal smart dress outfit is advisable. Other than that you can take a laid-back approach to what you’re wearing, as the locals do. Make sure to pack practically for what you have planned, so you can move freely, enjoy the activities, and stay comfortable. It is a good idea to pack layers for the evenings, as the temperature does drop down a little overnight, especially if camping or hiking at elevation. Try to pack natural and light materials that breathe well, as well as a few pairs of soft pants that allow for walking and hiking. Normal sun safety precautions should also be taken in New Zealand, including a hat or cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Dressing for the Seasons in New Zealand

SPRING – September, October, November

New Zealand during Spring for most of the day is warm, but expect chilly mornings and evenings. You may find the days pleasant enough, especially if you are from somewhere colder. Be ready to layer up and for the temperature to change quickly. It is always handy to have a sweater and extra layer for the evening as night time sees a drop in temperature. Definitely pack a light coat.

Average daytime temperature: 61 – 66˚F (16 – 19˚C).

SUMMER – December, January and February

These are the hottest months in New Zealand. Remember to pack your sunscreen and other sun protection such as hats and sunglasses.

Remember to cover body parts after sun exposure to avoid damage and use after sun. Swimsuits perfect for these months, as well as shorts, t-shirts, dresses. It may be advisable to carry light layer in the evening.

Average daytime temperature: 68 – 77˚F (20 – 25˚C).

FALL – March, April, May

Fall in New Zealand will be chilly and sunny in the daytime, with a sense of the Winter months approaching and a drop in temperature, particularly at night. It is important to pack cozy layers, something warm to sleep in and lighter layers for the daytime. You may wake up to really cold mornings. Prepare for all weathers here, but for the most part it will be cold.

Average daytime temperature: 62 – 70˚F (17 – 21˚C).

WINTER – June, July, August

Winter sees the average temperature in New Zealand drop. The South Island can drop down to 14°F! (-10°C) Wear a coat, pack layers including moisture-wicking shirts and even thermal leggings to go under pants. There’s a chance of it being particularly cold, so remember a scarf, a warm hat, and gloves!

Average daytime temperature: 53 – 61˚F (12 – 16˚C).

How to dress for activities in New Zealand – (Click to expand)
Outdoor Activities: Please plan all excursions carefully and heed the information from the guide if you are working with one. Use common sense when venturing off alone, like dressing so you are comfy and able to move freely, and remember to stay hydrated and plan a route. Good footwear can be the difference between a really successful excursion or not, so make sure you’re taking shoes with enough grip for the activity. Mountaineering and other fun activities can require proper equipment such as helmets, so check in with the organizers of any such activities to be sure you have access to the correct equipment.

Beaches:
Normal beach attire is most welcomed and suitable here. New Zealand has some diverse and beautiful beaches. If you are planning on doing water sports or surfing, a wetsuit may be advisable to protect your skin from the cold water.

Walking and Hiking:
Walks and hikes are some of the most incredible ways to see New Zealand. Stay on pathways or planned routes. Wear breathable layers. Ensure you have enough water and food for the walk. You may want to wear long pants to prevent any leg scratches from the natural surroundings. A light walking shoe with good grip will be suitable for most terrains. More difficult landscapes require sturdier and more advanced gear and clothing.

What NOT To Take to New Zealand

  • 1.DON’T PACK your own sunscreen

    It just takes up valuable packing space. Yes, it’s ABSOLUTELY crucial to wear sunscreen while in New Zealand as the sun’s rays are much stronger there. But sunscreen can be found anywhere, and it’s pretty affordable in any pharmacy or supermarket, so don’t bother bringing your own.

  • 2.DON’T BRING too much clothing

    and especially not fancy clothes. You won’t need a lot of clothing anyway, and New Zealand is not the place to dress up. Avoid bringing anything too nice – you’ll probably just get it dirty, anyway. DO bring layers that you can mix and match, and outfits that can easily go from warm to chilly.

  • 3.DON’T TAKE extra electronics

    It’s both a packing no-no and a security issue (yes, crime exists in NZ too!). You don’t want to schlep all of that extra weight around, and you REALLY don’t want your electronics stolen or damaged. There’s plenty to entertain you in NZ without them.

  • 4.DON’T PACK heavy books

    Or, honestly, any books except ones you need to navigate and explore NZ. Books are delightful, but heavy and bulky, which your back will not thank you for. If you haven’t already, update your library with a Kindle or similar e-reader, and bring that instead.

  • 5.DON’T TAKE lots of cash

    Another security issue. You don’t want to attract any unwanted attention, and cash is an unfortunate beacon for petty criminals. ATMs are everywhere in NZ, and they’re not usually any more expensive than in the States, so you’ll be able to get small amounts of cash when you need it.

  • 6.DON’T BRING expensive or valuable jewelry

    The theme here is not to take anything you’d be sad to see lost, stolen, or destroyed. You really won’t need decorative accessories in New Zealand – most of your activities will be outdoorsy and a little on the rugged side.

What should I NOT wear in New Zealand? – (Click to expand)
No shoes
Although the locals do it and you may see them going around shoe-less, it may not be advisable to go barefoot. There may be glass or debris on the floor, you may end up injuring your foot accidentally. Restaurants and shops will require shoes to be admitted.

Fancy, elegant, expensive clothing
For the most part, leave your precious clothing at home – the exception being if you are planning very extravagant nights out. Opt for clothing practical for your activities that you wouldn’t mind getting dirty.

Expensive Jewellery
Do not wear expensive, eye-catching jewelry. As with everywhere else in the world, flashy things like this will only attract pickpockets and thieves. Trying to minimize the risks to yourself and your belongings is always best, no matter where you’re traveling.

Impractical or ill-fitting clothing
Make sure you are comfortable, in light, breathable fabrics Sunstroke and exhaustion are a risk, so stay hydrated and wear clothing to keep your body cool and prevent overheating.

FAQs about travel in New Zealand

  • 1. Is NZ tap water safe to drink?

    Yes! Tap water is perfectly safe, although the water in many cities tastes a little unpleasant due to treatment. Mineral water is available in all supermarkets and dairies, or you can bring your own filtered water bottle with you so that your water is always fresh.

  • 2. What is the cheapest way to get around New Zealand?

    nz coastas trolley

    There are several options for traveling NZ on a budget, including:

    1. Campervans. Buying or renting a van means you save on accommodation and get to travel at your own pace. There are hundreds of campervan parks around NZ, and in some places you can freedom camp.
    2. Bus: Lots of budget options with companies that run services that cover all of NZ, or hop-on/hop-off tours.
    3. Train: Although not a common way to travel due to the expense, the Tranz Alpine train journey is one of the most beautiful in the world.
  • 3. Do I need to tip in restaurants?

    Tipping isn’t expected in New Zealand. If you’re impressed by a particular staff member, then go ahead and tip if you want to, but many establishments require staff to pool any tips so that they can be shared equally. You may even see a “Tip Jar” on the counter, but again, it’s up to you to put something into it.

  • 4. How safe is it to go hiking in NZ?

    How safe is it to go hiking in NZ?

    Hiking is as safe as long as you’re prepared!

    Most hiking tracks will have a sign posted at the start which tells you how long it will take and the grade of difficulty, so you should know what to expect.

    In any case, you should check the details with a local information centre or on the Department of Conservation website beforehand. Always take sufficient gear and ALWAYS tell someone when and where you’re going.

  • 5. Do I need a visa to visit NZ? Or to work in NZ?

    If you are a UK citizen and/or passport holder, you can stay up to six months without a visa. If you are a citizen of a country that has a visa waiver agreement with NZ, you can stay up to three months without a visa. Otherwise, you’ll need a visitor visa, which allows you to stay for up to 9 months.

    working holiday visa allows you to travel and work in New Zealand for up to 12 months, or 23 months if you’re from the UK.

  • 6. When is the best/worst time of year to visit NZ?

    When is the best/worst time of year to visit NZ?

    Depends on what you want to do in NZ! If you’re coming for beaches and bush trekking, summer is your best bet. But if you want to hit the slopes and see the wild beauty of the snow-capped Alps, you can’t miss winter. Some parts of NZ are quite wet and cold during winter, so outdoor adventures aren’t as safe or fun, but there’s always somewhere to go to escape the worst of it.

    And remember – the southern hemisphere seasons are opposite to the northern hemisphere, so Christmas is in summer!

  • 7. How can I stick to a budget while traveling NZ?

    Budget travel can be tough, as New Zealand has become much more expensive in recent years. But there are still ways to see plenty on a shoestring by:

    1. Camping: if you don’t mind communal kitchens and a slightly cramped living space, camping is a fun and cheap way to see the country.
    2. Van or campervan: As above – rent or buy a campervan and your accommodation is sorted!
    3. Couchsurfing: Very popular in NZ with over 2000 hosts around the country.
    4. WWOOFing: A great way to work for your keep whilst hanging out with the locals!
  • 8. What are some foods to try while I’m in New Zealand?

    What are some foods to try while I’m in New Zealand?

    Lamb is kind of a given, considering sheep are their primary pasture animal. Roast lamb is drool-worthy and an experience you won’t want to miss.

    Other, lesser-known foods to try are:

    Tuatua (a soft and mild shellfish), Hāngi (A traditional Maori dish of steam-roasted veggies and meats), Fish and chips (again: FRESH, LOCAL seafood!), and NZ’s delicious offerings of wine and cheese.

  • 9. How can I find out where to get off the beaten path?

    This is best done by visiting an i-site (information center), checking out TripAdvisor or, better yet, getting to know some locals. There are many, many hidden gems in New Zealand that you won’t see on a tourist brochure – I could tell you a few just off the top of my head! Locals are only too willing to point you in the direction of a cool place.

  • 10. Where can I go camping in NZ

    camper van new zealand

    There are loads of campgrounds in NZ, especially in areas near tourist attractions. Facilities in campgrounds range from cabins, TV rooms, and modern communal kitchens, to isolated paddocks with cold showers and long drops.

    Freedom camping is also possible in some areas, which means you can park your van or pitch your tent and camp for the night – for free. It’s a fantastic way to explore New Zealand, BUT please obey the rules!