10 Essential Tips for Visiting New Zealand

Located in Oceania and known for its stunning nature, rich Māori culture, and friendly people, New Zealand is a breathtaking destination that’s great for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers. From the white-sand beaches to mountains, there’s loads to explore. If you’re visiting New Zealand for the first time (or haven’t been in a while) and curious what to expect, here are 10 things to know before you go.

1. New Zealand is made up of Two Main Islands: North & South

North vs South Island: Which Is Right for First-Time Visitors

As you plan your trip, you might be asking, “Where should I go in New Zealand? How much time do I need?”

New Zealand is made up of two main islands, the North Island and the South Island, and each offers something different.

South Island:

Larger in size, but less populated
Known for dramatic scenery: mountains, glaciers, fjords
Cooler in temperature, ideal for nature and adventure lovers

North Island:

More populated, home to Auckland and Wellington
Warmer in climate
Features white-sand beaches, geothermal parks, and active volcanoes
Strong Māori cultural presence, especially in Rotorua

Tip: The duration of your trip will help shape your itinerary, as you research both islands and identify the attractions you’d like to visit. Unless you have 3+ weeks, I suggest choosing one island for your first trip so you can explore without rushing.

2. New Zealand has Reversed Seasons: Consider the Best Time to Visit

best seasons to visit new zealand

Wondering, “when to visit New Zealand?” Keep in mind New Zealand’s seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere:

Summer: December to February
Fall: March to May
Winter: June to August
Spring: September to November

Summer sun can be intense and busy, and winters can get cold. The best season to visit New Zealand depends on you! Whatever the season, plan and pack accordingly.

3. Keep in mind Time Zone, NZD Currency & Cost of Travel

Logistics to be aware of

Time Zone: New Zealand is ahead of most regions. Expect major time differences and jet lag. You’ll literally be flying into the future!

Currency: The local currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Notes include $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. Credit cards are widely accepted, even street vendors and taxis usually have POS devices.

Cost of Travel:

Whether New Zealand feels expensive depends on:

Your budget, travel style (luxury vs. budget), and itinerary
Your home currency (e.g., USD vs. NZD)
Where you’re visiting from and what you're used to paying (e.g. visiting from a high cost country vs more affordable country)

From my perspective (coming from a MAJOR city in the U.S.):

U.S. travelers may benefit from favorable USD/ NZD exchange rate
Group excursions were pricey but worth it (especially if you’re not planning to drive in New Zealand and need to visit sights without a car)
Dining options ranged from budget-friendly to expensive
Groceries were comparable to the U.S. (remember, this is coming from a major city…NYC, SF, DC)
Domestic flights and public transportation were generally budget-friendly

4. Prepare for Visa & Entry Requirements

Auckland Airport

nzeta and visa forms

Check New Zealand immigration requirements in advance (especially if you need to apply for a Visa). While citizens from visa-waiver countries, such as the U.S. or U.K., don’t need a visa, they need to apply for an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before arriving.

Start here: https://nzeta.immigration.govt.nz

5. Be aware of Custom Rules: Know What You Can and Cannot Bring to NZ

What you can and cannot bring to new zealand

New Zealand has strict customs rules, especially around fresh foods, fruits, plants, seeds, and animal products.

If you fly into Auckland Airport, they’ll have:

Clear signage explaining restrictions
Disposal bins for restricted items
Screening checks

Do your research before flying in to avoid fines or delays.

6. Plan Transportation, Especially if You’re Not Driving.

Lower Albert Street Bus Station, Auckland

Ticket Machine, Auckland

Transportation Tips for Driving & Getting Around

Public Transport is available in major cities like Auckland and Wellington but once you’re outside those areas, it’s limited.

If you’re renting a car, know that:

In New Zealand they drive on the left side of the road
Roads are often narrow, hilly, and winding. Although the distance may look short, it takes longer.
Speed signs are in kilometers/hour, not miles

No car? No problem. Here’s how you can still explore without one!

Book guided tours (with transport included)
Use intercity buses, shuttles, ferries, or catch domestic flights
Leverage rideshare apps like Uber (available in urban areas) or taxis

I explored the North Island (Auckland, Rotorua, and Bay of Islands) without a car. It’s doable with some planning!

7. Learn About Māori History & Culture

Maori: History, TRADITIONS, CULTURE & Must-Visit Sites

New Zealand’s indigenous people, the Māori, have a rich heritage, culture, and notable history.

I highly recommend a visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds in the Bay of Islands, where you can dive into the country’s colonial history and the Treaty of Waitangi.

As a Nigerian and American, I personally found deep resonance in the Māori story. Parallels to British colonization and struggles for equity and self-determination were striking. It was humbling, emotional, and empowering.

8. Respect Nature, it’s sacred here

Views from Waiheke Island to Auckland Waterfront

Respecting Nature: Conservation & Etiquette

New Zealand takes conservation seriously. The environment is deeply respected by locals and especially in Māori culture, which has a spiritual and physical connection to the land and regards natural landmarks as living ancestors and beings.

Notable examples:

Te Urewera, Whanganui River, and Mount Taranaki have been granted legal personhood as a way of honoring their spiritual and ancestral value.

Be mindful of how you treat the land. Leave no trace or trash and follow posted rules!

**9. Public Transit: Tap On and Tap Off**

Public Transit: How Tap On/Tap Off Works

If you’re using a city bus or train, you’ll need to tap your card/device when you board and again when you exit.

This might be unfamiliar to travelers used to tapping once. It’s a similar system to what’s used in cities like Singapore.

10. Dress in Layers: The Weather Changes Fast

Waiheke Island

Dress for the Weather: Layers & UV Protection

No matter the season, weather in New Zealand is unpredictable. So…layers are your best friend.

Also, the UV index is very high, so bring sunscreen and use it even on cloudy days or under light clothing.

Off you go

New Zealand is stunning, soulful, and well worth the journey. Whether this is your first visit or a long-overdue return, I hope these tips on what to know before visiting New Zealand help you feel prepared and excited to explore this part of the world. Enjoy!

Visiting New Zealand for the First Time? 10 Essential Tips to know