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All the Travel Info You Need, All in One Place

Planning a trip to New Zealand? Our Frequently Asked Questions page covers everything from booking tours and transport options to what to pack and when to visit. It’s your go-to guide for clear, reliable answers that help take the stress out of organising your holiday. Whether you're travelling solo, as a couple, or with a group, you'll find helpful tips to make your Kiwi adventure run smoothly.

Before You Go

Drivers Licenses
Money and Credit Cards
Planning your trip
What is a self-drive package holiday in New Zealand? Do I need a special driver's license to drive, if renting a car in New Zealand? What is the minimum age to hire a car in New Zealand? What are some essential packing tips for traveling to New Zealand, considering the availability of goods and services in the country? Do you recommend getting travel insurance for my trip to New Zealand, and what does it cover? What do I need to know about arriving in New Zealand and going through passport, customs, and biosecurity controls? What items should I declare when arriving in New Zealand, and what are the strict biosecurity rules I need to be aware of? What are the public transportation options from Auckland International Airport to the city centre? How can I plan my first night in New Zealand after arriving? How to plan a self-drive holiday to New Zealand How do I decide whether to explore the North Island, South Island, or both during my trip to New Zealand? I have limited time for my trip. Can you suggest a short itinerary that covers New Zealand's highlights? What are the recommended ways to get from the North Island to the South Island (or vice versa)? What are the advantages of traveling during the shoulder and low seasons in New Zealand, and when do they occur? Is it recommended to drive after a long-haul flight to New Zealand? What are the recommendations for a romantic getaway in New Zealand? How can I effectively plan a family trip to New Zealand to ensure an enjoyable and stress-free experience for everyone involved? What are some North Island honeymoon destinations? Which South Island destinations are perfect for a honeymoon? How do I plan a solo trip to New Zealand? What is the approximate cost of food and drinks in New Zealand? How much does transportation typically cost in New Zealand? What are the typical accommodation costs in New Zealand? How do I get to Picton from Wellington, Auckland, or Christchurch? What is the weather like at the Queen Charlotte Track? When is the Best Time to Visit New Zealand When is the Best Season to Visit New Zealand
Visas and Passports
Do I need a visa to visit New Zealand? How do I apply for a New Zealand tourist visa? How much does it cost to get a visa to New Zealand? How long does it take to process a New Zealand visa application? What are the passport requirements for traveling to New Zealand? How long is a New Zealand visa valid for? What will happen if I stay in New Zealand after my visa expires? Who can enter New Zealand without a visa? Can I extend my visa while in New Zealand? What is NZeTA? Is a NZeTA the same as a visa? Who needs an NZeTA for New Zealand? Who does not need an NZeTA? How much does a New Zealand eTA cost? How long does it take to get New Zealand eTA? How long can I stay in New Zealand without a visa? What is the easiest way to get New Zealand visa? Do I need a visa to go to New Zealand from Australia? How to apply New Zealand tourist visa from Australia? What documents do Australians need to enter New Zealand? How long can I stay in New Zealand with an Australian passport? Do Aussies need a passport for NZ? Do Aussies need NZeTA? How long can I stay in New Zealand with a non-Australian passport? Can I have an Australian and New Zealand passport? How long can an Australian live in NZ? Can I stay in NZ for 6 months? Can Australian citizens get New Zealand citizenship? Does NZ have a 6-month passport rule? Are NZ citizens Australian residents? Do I need to be vaccinated to enter NZ? How long does it take to get a NZ visa? What is the 183-day rule in NZ? How long can you live in New Zealand without a visa? How can I stay in New Zealand for a year? How much money do you need to move to New Zealand? How many times can you visit New Zealand in a year? What is the 6-month visa for New Zealand? Do I need both an ETA and a visa Australia? What is the purpose of the Online New Zealand Travel Declaration? What information and documents are required for completing the New Zealand Travel Declaration? How do I contact the New Zealand Travel Declaration centre? Where is the Online New Zealand Travel Declaration currently available? How can I complete the Online New Zealand Travel Declaration? Is there a fee for completing the Online New Zealand Travel Declaration? How long does it take to complete the declaration? Is there a time limit for completing the declaration before my trip to New Zealand? Can someone else complete the declaration on my behalf? I am travelling by sea; do I need to complete Online New Zealand Travel Declaration?
Weather and Climate

Whilst in New Zealand

Accommodation
Meals and Dining Out
What are some popular dishes I should try while traveling in New Zealand? Are there any traditional Māori restaurants or eateries that offer cultural dining experiences? What are the best locations to try authentic Māori cuisine prepared by local chefs? What is a hāngī, and where can I enjoy it? What type of cuisine is prevalent in New Zealand? What are some popular food markets or food halls to explore in New Zealand? Where can I experience farm-to-table restaurants that offer fresh, locally sourced ingredients? What makes crayfish a favourite New Zealand food, and where can I taste it? What are some popular drinks in New Zealand? What is L&P, and where can I buy it in New Zealand? What are some popular desserts in New Zealand? What are some beloved New Zealand chocolates and sweets? What are some unique pie flavours in New Zealand? Which artisan cheese companies are famous in New Zealand? What are some typical components of a traditional Kiwi fish and chips meal? What are whitebait fritters, and where can I try them on the West Coast of the South Island? Where can I try green shell mussels, and which region is famous for them? Does New Zealand cater to specific dietary requirements? Where can I find savoury pies with fillings like mince and cheese or steak and cheese? Can you recommend some local craft breweries or microbreweries that offer unique beers and dining experiences? How much should I budget for a restaurant meal in New Zealand? What are the average prices for main meals at New Zealand restaurants? How much do drinks like wine and beer cost in New Zealand restaurants? How can I locate budget-friendly dining options without compromising on quality? How accommodating is New Zealand towards Muslim visitors' dietary needs?
Money and Credit Cards
Shopping
Tipping and Gratuities
Weather and Climate

Self Drive Holidays

Amendments and Cancellations
Drivers Licenses
Driving in New Zealand
Making a Booking
Planning your trip
What is a self-drive package holiday in New Zealand? Do I need a special driver's license to drive, if renting a car in New Zealand? What is the minimum age to hire a car in New Zealand? What are some essential packing tips for traveling to New Zealand, considering the availability of goods and services in the country? Do you recommend getting travel insurance for my trip to New Zealand, and what does it cover? What do I need to know about arriving in New Zealand and going through passport, customs, and biosecurity controls? What items should I declare when arriving in New Zealand, and what are the strict biosecurity rules I need to be aware of? What are the public transportation options from Auckland International Airport to the city centre? How can I plan my first night in New Zealand after arriving? How to plan a self-drive holiday to New Zealand How do I decide whether to explore the North Island, South Island, or both during my trip to New Zealand? I have limited time for my trip. Can you suggest a short itinerary that covers New Zealand's highlights? What are the recommended ways to get from the North Island to the South Island (or vice versa)? What are the advantages of traveling during the shoulder and low seasons in New Zealand, and when do they occur? Is it recommended to drive after a long-haul flight to New Zealand? What are the recommendations for a romantic getaway in New Zealand? How can I effectively plan a family trip to New Zealand to ensure an enjoyable and stress-free experience for everyone involved? What are some North Island honeymoon destinations? Which South Island destinations are perfect for a honeymoon? How do I plan a solo trip to New Zealand? What is the approximate cost of food and drinks in New Zealand? How much does transportation typically cost in New Zealand? What are the typical accommodation costs in New Zealand? How do I get to Picton from Wellington, Auckland, or Christchurch? What is the weather like at the Queen Charlotte Track? When is the Best Time to Visit New Zealand When is the Best Season to Visit New Zealand
Road Rules

Hiking in New Zealand

Abel Tasman Coastal Track
Kepler Track
Milford Track
Queen Charlotte Track
What is the Queen Charlotte Track and where is it located? What is the ideal season for walking or biking the Queen Charlotte Track? What are the distances and walking times for specific track sections? How can I access the Queen Charlotte Track? What can I expect to see in terms of heritage and historical sites along the track? Can I engage in birdwatching along the track? Which is the best way to start the Queen Charlotte Track? Are there transport operators that provide services to the track? Can I experience the Queen Charlotte Track as a day walk? What services do guides offer for walkers? Can I walk the Queen Charlotte Track unguided? Do I have to carry my big pack while walking the Queen Charlotte Track? Is there accommodation along the Queen Charlotte Track? Are there Department of Conservation (DOC) huts along the Queen Charlotte Track? Are there cooking facilities available at the campsites or lodges? Is water readily available along the track? What should I be aware of while walking or biking the Queen Charlotte Track? How long does it take to bike the full length of the Queen Charlotte Track? Is the Queen Charlotte Track part of the Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trails? Are there bike repair facilities along the track? What should I do about rubbish on the track? How can I return to Picton from Anakiwa after completing the biking route? Is there mobile reception along the Queen Charlotte Track? Are there any safety concerns or precautions to be aware of? How should I plan and prepare for my trip on the Queen Charlotte Track? What is the weather like at the Queen Charlotte Track? What do I need to bring on my hiking trip? How fit do I need to be to hike the Queen Charotte Track?
Routeburn Track
Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Cycling in New Zealand

Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail
Clutha Gold Cycle Trail
Hawke's Bay Cycle Trail
Otago Central Railway Cycle Trail
What is the Otago Central Rail Trail? Can I walk the Otago Central Rail Trail, or is it only for cycling? What is the gradient of the Otago Central Rail Trail? What will the weather be like on the Otago Central Rail Trail? How long does it take to complete the trail? Can I ride only specific sections of the Otago Central Rail Trail? Are there side trips or attractions near the Otago Central Rail Trail? What is the best riding season for the Otago Central Rail Trail? When is the peak season for the Otago Central Rail Trail, and when should I book tours and accommodation in advance? Is the Otago Central Rail Trail suitable for families with children? Are there any entry fees or permits required to access the Otago Central Rail Trail? Are there food and drink options available along the Otago Central Rail Trail? Is it possible to do day trips or guided tours on the trail? What are the popular options for a self-guided cycling trip on the trail? Are e-bikes allowed on the trail, and are there facilities for recharging batteries? Are there maps available to assist with navigation along the trail? Will I have mobile phone coverage along the trail? What are the accommodation options along or near the Otago Central Rail Trail? Are there any closures or limited business hours during the low season? How do I get to the Otago Central Rail Trail from major cities in New Zealand? Are there bus services available to reach Alexandra and Clyde? Is it necessary to book bike hire, shuttle transport, and tours in advance? Where can I park my car?
Remutaka Cycle Trail
Roxburgh Gorge Cycle Trail
Tasman Great Taste Cycle Trail
West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail

Kayaking, Canoeing and Rafting

Abel Tasman National Park Kayaking
Marlborough Sounds Kayaking
Whanganui River Journey

Skiing and Snowboarding

Mount Hutt Skiing & Snowboarding
Queenstown Skiing & Snowboarding
Wanaka Skiing & Snowboarding

Train Journeys

Train Journeys in New Zealand
What are the most popular train journeys in New Zealand? What are the key features of these scenic train journeys? I have specific accessibility needs such as a wheelchair or hearing aid. Can you accommodate these requirements? What are the train timetables for the day tours offered by each train? Can I bring food and drinks on the train, or is there onboard dining available? Can I bring luggage on the train, and is there a limit to the baggage allowance? Do I need to book a ticket in advance? Are pets allowed on-board? Are there any family-friendly amenities or activities available on the trains? Can I use my electronic devices (e.g., laptops, smartphones) onboard the train? Can I purchase souvenirs or local products onboard the trains? How can I ensure I get the best views from the train during the journey? Are there any travel packages that combine train journeys with other activities or accommodations? Can I bring my bicycle on the train, and are there bike storage facilities onboard? What is the best time of year to take a train journey in New Zealand? How far in advance should I book my train tickets to secure the best fares? Can I upgrade to a higher class of service after booking my train tickets? What is the Northern Explorer train journey, and where does it take you? What is the Coastal Pacific train journey, and where does it operate? What does the TranzAlpine train journey entail, and on which route does it operate? What are the highlights of the TranzAlpine trip? What is the Scenic Plus Experience on the TranzAlpine train journey? Are there any themed train journeys, such as historical or cultural experiences? What are the Coastal Pacific Train departure times? Are the trains wheelchair accessible?

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