Should I exchange money before travelling to New Zealand?

Using a debit card for your rental bond can affect how much spending money you have available during your trip.

The Key Differences:

• Debit cards: Rental companies often deduct or ring-fence the full bond amount from your bank balance. You cannot access this money until it is released after the vehicle is returned. Processing times vary by bank and can take several business days to clear.
• Credit cards: Most rental companies place a temporary hold on your credit limit rather than withdrawing funds. Your cash remains available while you travel.
• Acceptance: Some rental providers in Aotearoa New Zealand do not take debit cards for vehicle bonds or require additional insurance when using one. Always check the payment terms before booking.

Our self-drive packages offer a range of rental car options to suit different preferences and group sizes. Common options include economy cars, sedans, SUVs, campervans, and 4WD vehicles. Choose a car that best fits your needs in terms of size, comfort, and terrain suitability.

Important: Most retail banks in Aotearoa New Zealand no longer exchange foreign currency. Please do not rely on bank branches for this service.

Where you can exchange money:

• ATMs (Recommended): The easiest way to get NZD is to simply withdraw it from an ATM using your international card. This usually offers a better exchange rate than swapping physical notes.
• Bureau de Change Kiosks: You can exchange foreign notes at specialized kiosks (e.g., Travelex or Travel Money NZ) found at international airports and in major city centres.
• Hotels: Some large hotels may exchange small amounts for guests, though the exchange rates are typically poor compared to ATMs.

Absolutely, Train Journeys in New Zealand present travel packages that seamlessly integrate train journeys with diverse activities and accommodations. These all-encompassing packages frequently encompass stays in various destinations, guided tours, and activities that harmonize with the train experience. This approach facilitates exploration of different facets of New Zealand while benefiting from thoughtfully designed travel plans. To delve into these offerings, check our website or connect with our Reservations team for detailed information and bookings.

Answer: Traveller’s cheques are no longer accepted in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Banks, currency exchange counters and retailers do not cash or exchange them, so they are not a valid option for spending money.

What you should bring instead:

• Credit and Debit Cards: Visa and Mastercard work in most places.
• Travel Cards: Multi-currency cards such as Wise or Revolut are popular for low-fee spending.
• ATMs: You can withdraw New Zealand Dollars (NZD) from ATMs using your international bank card.

Traveling during the shoulder and low seasons (April to May and September to October) offers fewer crowds, lower costs, and pleasant weather, making it an excellent alternative to the busy summer months.

For Australian and New Zealand passport holders, as well as New Zealand residents and Australian permanent residents with current travel conditions, the passport must be valid on the date of travel to and from New Zealand.

For other visitors to New Zealand, including those coming as visitors, students, or workers, the passport must generally be valid for at least three months beyond the intended departure date from New Zealand. However, if the visitor's country has consular representation in New Zealand that is capable of issuing and renewing travel documents, a validity period of one month beyond the intended departure date may be acceptable. It's important to check with your country's passport office or consular authority to confirm the validity requirements before traveling.

Additionally, the passport should not be damaged, defaced, or excessively worn, and if a visa or permit is required for entry into New Zealand, it should be displayed in the passport.

To check the validity requirements for any international passport, you can refer to the IATA Travel Centre, which provides comprehensive information on passport and visa requirements for various countries. Visit our blog for more information.