Your First Trip to New Zealand
From getting ready to finding your way around after you arrive, these practical tips will help you feel prepared, settle in and enjoy your New Zealand holiday.
01 | Before You Go
Visas & NZeTA · Arrival Declaration · Travel Insurance · Driving Licences & Car Hire
Visas & NZeTA
Depending on your passport and the purpose of your visit, you may need a New Zealand Visitor Visa or an NZeTA. Check the requirements well before you travel, allow time for your application, and make sure your passport meets the relevant validity requirements.
Arrival Declaration
New Zealand has strict biosecurity rules. Food, traditional Chinese medicines, certain other medicines, plant and animal products, wooden items, and used hiking boots or camping equipment may need to be declared.
If you’re unsure, declare it. Declaring an item does not automatically mean you cannot bring it into the country.
Travel Insurance
We recommend travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, luggage and any outdoor activities you plan to take part in.
If you’re planning to ski, skydive, bungy jump or hike on a glacier, check that your policy covers these activities before you buy.
Driving Licences & Car Hire
If you plan to drive, check that your licence is valid for use in New Zealand and whether you need an English translation or other supporting documents.
Car hire companies may have different age, licence and credit card requirements, so check these before booking.
02 | Arriving in New Zealand
Mobile Coverage · Payments · Power Plugs · Local Time
Mobile Phones & Internet
You can use a local SIM, an eSIM or international roaming. Mobile coverage is generally good in cities and major tourist towns, but it can be limited in the South Island’s mountains, national parks and along some roads.
Download offline maps before you set off.
Cards & Cash
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. A small amount of New Zealand cash is usually useful as a backup.
Some businesses may charge a surcharge for credit card or contactless payments. Check any notices at the checkout before paying.
Power Plugs & Voltage
New Zealand uses 230V / 50Hz electricity and Type I plugs, with angled flat pins.
If you’re travelling from China, we recommend bringing a travel adaptor suitable for Australia and New Zealand.
Time Difference
New Zealand is generally 4–5 hours ahead of China.
New Zealand observes daylight saving time. It is generally five hours ahead of China during daylight saving and four hours ahead during standard time.
All flight, transfer, tour, restaurant and activity booking times are shown in local New Zealand time.
03 | Weather & What to Pack
Seasons · Mountain Weather · Sun Protection · Sandflies
New Zealand’s Seasons
- Spring: September–November
- Summer: December–February
- Autumn: March–May
- Winter: June–August
Conditions vary between the North and South Islands, mountains and coastal areas, so pack for the places you’re visiting as well as the season.
Four Seasons in One Day
New Zealand’s weather can change quickly, especially in the South Island’s mountains. Even in summer, pack a lightweight down jacket or warm layer, along with windproof and waterproof outerwear, when visiting places such as Lake Tekapo, Aoraki / Mount Cook and Queenstown.
Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. Take extra care around lakes, in the mountains and snow, and during hikes or other extended outdoor activities.
Sandflies
You may encounter sandflies in Milford Sound, on the West Coast and near some forests, rivers and lakes. Insect repellent can make your time outdoors much more comfortable.
Star Trip Tip: Pack layers you can easily add or remove as the weather changes.
04 | Driving & Getting Around
Driving on the Left · Travel Times · Fuel · Winter Roads
Keep Left
In New Zealand, traffic drives on the left-hand side. If it’s your first time driving here, familiarise yourself with the rules for roundabouts, turning, giving way and one-lane bridges.
Plan for More Than the Distance
Many South Island routes follow winding mountain, lakeside and rural roads. Journeys between Queenstown, Wānaka, Lake Tekapo, Aoraki / Mount Cook and Milford Sound can take longer than the distances on the map might suggest.
Drive Well Rested
Long international flights can leave you tired. Avoid planning a long drive immediately after you land.
Fuel Up Before Remote Routes
Petrol stations can be few and far between in remote areas. Fill up before heading into the mountains or starting a long journey, rather than waiting until your tank is nearly empty.
Winter Driving
Some South Island mountain roads may be affected by ice, snow, road restrictions or snow chain requirements in winter. If conditions are poor, adjust your plans and allow more time.
Star Trip Tip: Some of New Zealand’s best views are along the way. Leave time to stop, enjoy the scenery and take a break.
05 | Shopping & Spending
GST · Duty-Free Shopping · Tipping · Opening Hours
GST
Prices for most goods and services in New Zealand include 15% Goods and Services Tax (GST).
Can Visitors Claim a Tax Refund at the Airport?
Unlike some countries, New Zealand does not have a general airport GST refund scheme for international visitors.
Goods bought from regular shops with GST included generally do not qualify for a tax refund when you leave.
Duty-Free Shopping
Eligible duty-free purchases are generally sold on a tax-free basis at the time of purchase. Collection or delivery is arranged according to the retailer’s requirements.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected in New Zealand.
Restaurants, hotels and taxis generally do not require tips, but you’re welcome to leave one if you’re particularly happy with the service.
Opening Hours
Some shops and restaurants close earlier than you may be used to, especially in smaller towns.
When visiting places such as Lake Tekapo, Aoraki / Mount Cook and Twizel, plan ahead for dinner and any shopping you may need to do.
06 | Good to Know
Popular Activities · Weather Changes · Hotel Check-in · Emergencies
Book Popular Experiences Early
During peak season, book popular activities and accommodation in advance. These include:
Queenstown’s Skyline Gondola, the TSS Earnslaw steamship, Milford Sound cruises, Kaikōura whale watching, Lake Tekapo stargazing, glacier helicopter experiences, skydiving and bungy jumping.
Leave Room for Weather Changes
Helicopter flights, whale watching, skydiving, stargazing and some fiord and outdoor experiences may be affected by the weather.
If an activity is a highlight of your trip, try to schedule it earlier in your stay so there’s time to rearrange it if needed.
Hotel Check-in
Some boutique hotels, motels and holiday accommodation do not have a 24-hour reception.
If you expect to arrive late, arrange late check-in with your accommodation provider in advance.
Drinking Water
Tap water is generally safe to drink in cities and major towns. At your accommodation or in remote areas, follow any local notices or instructions.
Bringing Medicines
Keep medicines in their original packaging. If you’re bringing prescription or restricted medicines, check the entry requirements before travelling and bring a prescription or doctor’s letter where needed.
Emergencies
For urgent police, fire or ambulance assistance:
Call 111.