Frequently Asked Questions

Some of the most Frequently Asked Questions on New Zealand that we receive are as below.

When is the best time to visit New Zealand?

New Zealand is an extremely popular summer destination, both for overseas and domestic visitors. We strongly recommends you book at least your accommodation between December and April; and also in the ski areas during the ski season June to October to avoid disappointment. Availability of accommodation at other times may be restricted due to local cultural or sporting events.

Summer and winter temperatures vary by only about 10ºC over most of the country, making New Zealand an ideal holiday destination all year round. New Zealand has four quite distinct seasons - Spring (Sept-Nov), Summer (Dec-Feb), Autumn/Fall (Mar-May) and Winter (June-Aug). In summer there's plenty of sunshine, and activities in and around the water include rafting, snorkelling, diving and kayaking. You'll find snow on the mountains in winter and excellent skiing. Away from the mountains, New Zealand winters are mild and temperatures generally do not fall below freezing...more

What are the Seasons in New Zealand?

The seasons in New Zealand are directly opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere, and are the same as those in Australia. New Zealand's climate can best be described as being extremely variable, and anything except tropical!  You are very likely to experience 4 seasons in one day, which is very normal! 

New Zealand's seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere. This means that the warmest months are December, January and February, while the coldest are in June, July and August. Don't let cold months put you off - winters tend to be short and generally fairly mild.

That said, on any given day the weather and temperature can change unexpectedly and sometimes dramatically. You should be prepared for that, particularly if you are going hiking or doing other outdoor activities...more

What's the climate like in New Zealand?

New Zealand's seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere. This means that the warmest months are December, January and February, while the coldest are in June, July and August. Don't let cold months put you off - winters tend to be short and generally fairly mild.

That said, on any given day the weather and temperature can change unexpectedly and sometimes dramatically. You should be prepared for that, particularly if you are going hiking or doing other outdoor activities...more

What clothes should I take?

Dress is informal and relaxed on most occasions. Smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants and night-spots. Men are generally not expected to wear suits and ties, except in a few of the top formal bars and restaurants in major cities.

In summer a jacket and sweater should be included in your luggage should the weather turn cooler or you visit higher altitudes. You can expect some rain, so also include a light rainproof jacket or coat. If visiting between May and September, pack warm winter garments and layer your clothing.

Do I need a passport or visa to enter NZ?

All visitors to New Zealand must carry a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the date you intend to leave the country. Most visitors who intend to stay for less than three months do not require a visa. If you want to stay longer than three months, or your country of origin does not have a visa waiver agreement with New Zealand, then you will need to apply for a Visitor's Visa. For more information go to the Passport and Visa Section.

Can I use my credit cards/ATM cards in NZ?

All major international credit cards can be used in New Zealand and Travellers Cheques are accepted at hotels, banks and some stores. If your credit card is encoded with a PIN number you will be able to withdraw cash from automatic teller machines (ATMs) situated at banks and shopping centres throughout the country. If possible only withdraw small amounts of cash at a time and always shield your PIN number. For more information on banking go to the Money and Currency Section.

What is the voltage of electricity supply in New Zealand?

Do I need to take a converter? As in Australia electricity is supplied throughout New Zealand at 230/240 volts (50 hertz), although most hotels and motels provide 110 volt AC sockets (rated at 20 watts) for electric razors only. For all other equipment, an  adapter/converter is necessary, unless the item has a multi-voltage option. Please note that power outlets only accept flat three or two-pin plugs, depending on whether an earth connection is fitted. Visitors from countries other than Australia, Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands would require adapters/converters.

When are School Holidays in New Zealand?

The most up to date details for School Holidays in New Zealand can be found here.

How to Plan a Self Drive Holiday to NZ?

When planning a self drive holiday to New Zealand, there are a few things to consider that will make the task easier...more

Driving Times and Distances

To estimate driving times and distances, please try using our Driving Time and Distance Calculator. For more information about driving conditions go to the Driving in New Zealand section.

Where to Camp in a Motorhome

When on a New Zealand Motorhome Rental or Campervan Hire holiday there are a wide range of Campgrounds and Holiday Parks available in scenic locations around New Zealand...more