10 Essential Things to Know Before Traveling to New Zealand (Especially for First-Time Visitors)
- rachnamone
- May 27, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Oct 10
Dreaming of a trip to New Zealand?
There are a few important things to know before you go. From understanding local customs and driving on the left, to knowing what to pack for unpredictable weather — these tips will help you travel smart and stress-free. Here’s everything first-time visitors (especially families) should know before traveling to New Zealand.
Check out our blog South Island New Zealand Road Trip in 15 Days: Ultimate Itinerary & Family Travel Guide for itinerary ideas, activities and more, for planning your own trip!!
Before You Go — Why planning your New Zealand Trip the right way is important?
New Zealand is a small, stunning country located in the southern hemisphere. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, sparkling lakes, sprawling sheep farms, and magnificent coastlines, it's also a hub for numerous adventure sports. There is so much to do here!From tons of family friendly activities to an endless thrill for adventure enthusiasts or relaxing vacations in the vine region! NewZealand has a lot to offer! This was our second trip to New Zealand's South Island, and we absolutely loved our time there. A little planning can help you enjoy the place so much better and give you more than your money's worth! We have compiled a list of things to know before traveling to New Zealand, so that you can plan your own trip with ease!
10 Essential Things to Know Before Traveling to New Zealand
How to get there -
There are no direct flights from India to New Zealand, but don't let that deter you! Malaysia Airlines and Singapore Airlines offer convenient connections from various Indian cities, including Chennai, Mumbai, and Bangalore, with short layovers at Kuala Lumpur and Singapore airports, respectively. These flights will take you to Auckland in the North Island or Christchurch in the South Island.
Alternatively, you might consider visiting Australia for a few days and then taking a short flight from Melbourne or Sydney to Auckland, Christchurch, or even Queenstown if you're pressed for time. We recommend using Skyscanner to find the best connections and booking directly on the airline's website for the best deals and support (plus this might just be a cheaper, but slightly more time consuming way to reach New Zealand)
2. Visa requirements for Indian nationals -
Indian nationals need to apply for a visa before traveling to New Zealand. The visa process is entirely online, simple, and straightforward. You will need to upload the required documents, ensuring that the picture quality meets the specified requirements. The visa fee is paid online. You do not need to send your passport to the embassy unless specifically requested, in which case it can be done through VFS Global. We received our visas on emails in less than 15 days, and there is no visa sticker in the passport. Check out the NZD immigration website for more information regarding costs and decision times on the official website immigration.govt.nz
It's important to note that New Zealand has strict biosecurity laws. This means carrying animal products and plant products like seeds and fruits is not allowed. It's better to declare any food items you might be carrying at immigration to avoid hefty fines.
3. Currency -
New Zealand uses the NZD (New Zealand Dollar) as its currency. During our trip, the exchange rate was about 1 NZD to 50 INR. You can easily use your credit card almost everywhere, from restaurants and grocery stores to adventure activities. We highly recommend bringing a credit card with a PIN or a Forex card for convenience. If you need cash, don't worry—ATMs are plentiful at popular tourist spots and petrol stations.
4. When to Visit
New Zealand is a fantastic destination year-round! Whether you’re into winter skiing or summer adventure activities, spring wildflower blooms or stunning autumn colors, there’s never a bad time to visit. Remember, New Zealand is in the southern hemisphere, so the weather patterns are the opposite of those in the northern hemisphere.
Summer (December to March): Expect clear, sunny days perfect for outdoor activities, but be prepared for crowds and higher accommodation and activity prices.
Autumn (Late March to May): The weather remains pleasant for exploring, and the landscape is awash with vibrant shades of yellow and red. However, days become shorter as winter approaches.
Winter (Late June to August): This is paradise for ski lovers, with snow-covered slopes and a range of winter sports to enjoy.
Spring (September to November): Wildflowers bloom across the country, making it a picturesque time to visit.
No matter the season, keep in mind that New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable—it might be sunny but also very windy, with occasional rain. Always dress in layers and check the weather forecast before planning your day.
5. Food -
New Zealand has numerous delightful cafes that are a must-try. Some of our favorites include:
Sandfly Cafe in Te Anau
Doughbin in Lake Wanaka
Fairlie Bakehouse
Ferg Baker in Queenstown
Mrs. Wooly's in Glenorchy
Jackson orchard for fresh fruit ice-cream
These spots offer delicious pies and other baked goodies that are sure to satisfy every palate. Do keep in mind that most cafes close around 3 pm.
For grocery needs, you’ll find a variety of options at stores like New World, Four Square, and Pak'nSave. These stores offer a wide range of staples, baked items, and ready-to-eat meals. However, finding vegetarian options might be a bit challenging, so it’s wise to plan ahead.
6. Accommodation -
New Zealand offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from hostels to luxury hotels. Since we travel with young kids, we prefer staying in Airbnb accommodations, which provide the comfort of a home away from home. Some of the Airbnbs we rented were absolutely amazing, offering great views and excellent value for money. Plus, staying in an Airbnb often means you get to interact with locals, adding to your travel experience!
7. Moving around -
New Zealand is a breathtaking country that is best explored by road! Like in India, driving is on the left side of the road. Indian driving licenses are valid in New Zealand for up to 12 months. There are numerous car rental companies to choose from; we opted for Apex Car Rentals, which offered excellent value for money and had great reviews.
Exploring New Zealand by car allows you to fully appreciate its stunning landscapes and enjoy the freedom to stop and soak in the views whenever you wish.
We highly recommend opting for the maximum insurance cover to ensure a hassle-free and worry-free road trip experience. Driving in New Zealand is relatively easy, but keep in mind that most roads, including many highways, are single-lane. Always follow traffic rules and speed limits, and never drink and drive.
8. Activities -
New Zealand is the ultimate destination for adventure sports! For thrill-seekers, there's bungy jumping, skydiving, and paragliding. For family-friendly experiences, try jet boat rides, iFly, and the gondola luge. Many of these activities are available in Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of the world.
In winter, Queenstown also boasts some famous ski slopes, perfect for snow enthusiasts.
Beyond adventure sports, New Zealand is home to unique wildlife, including penguins, seals, and albatross, best viewed along the east coast. Whale watching tours are available from Kaikoura, located in the northeastern part of the South Island.
For a more laid-back experience, many places offer sheep shearing demonstrations and farm animal interactions, which are sure to delight both kids and adults.
The Cromwell region is renowned for its vineyards, where you can spend a day wine tasting and biking through picturesque landscapes.
For those who prefer a slower, more relaxing holiday, there are plenty of trails to explore around the Mount Cook region. You can also enjoy stargazing in the Dark Sky Reserve at Lake Tekapo, or soak in the history and autumn colors of Arrowtown.
9. Is it child friendly?
New Zealand is an incredibly child-friendly destination! Restaurants often offer children's menus, and some even provide toys and books for kids to enjoy. You'll find lovely playgrounds at many tourist destinations, ensuring that little ones are entertained and have space to play.
There's a wide array of family-friendly activities to choose from, catering to all ages and interests. Whether it's exploring nature, enjoying adventure sports suitable for kids, or immersing in cultural experiences, there's something for every family to enjoy.
Locals in New Zealand are known for their friendliness and helpfulness, making it even easier for families to navigate and enjoy their time in this beautiful country.
Overall, our kids had a fantastic time on this trip, and yours are likely to as well!!
10. Is it safe ?
Having traveled to the South Island of New Zealand twice, we found it to be very safe. However, it's always wise to practice usual safety precautions:
Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in crowded areas.
Avoid leaving valuable items such as your phone, wallet, or camera in the car where they are easily visible.
One of the great aspects of New Zealand is its lack of large predators or poisonous insects/venomous snakes. This makes it very safe to explore the wilderness and enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about encountering dangerous wildlife.
Overall, New Zealand is a safe and welcoming destination for travelers, allowing you to relax and fully enjoy your adventures .
FAQ — New Zealand for Families
How do we get to New Zealand?
Most visitors fly into major international airports — Auckland (AKL), Christchurch (CHC) or Wellington (WLG). From India there are direct/one-stop flights depending on the airline; book early for better fares.
Do Indian nationals need a visa?
Yes — Indian citizens must apply for the appropriate New Zealand visa online before travel. Check the official Immigration New Zealand website for the latest requirements and fees.
What currency is used and can I use cards?
New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; ATMs are common in towns and cities. Carry a small amount of cash for rural areas.
What’s the best way to get around?
Renting a car or campervan is popular for families (drive on the left). Domestic flights and intercity buses/trains connect main centres. Book child seats when renting.
Are there good options for vegetarian families?
Yes! New Zealand has plenty of vegan, vegetarian and egg/veg-friendly restaurants and supermarket options, especially in cities and tourist areas.
What sort of accommodation suits families?
Family rooms, self-contained units, holiday parks and family-friendly hotels are widely available. Self-catering helps keep costs down and suits picky eaters.
What activities are best with kids?
Nature walks, beaches, farm experiences and animal experiences. Choose age-appropriate activities and check safety rules.
Is New Zealand safe for families?
Generally very safe — but watch road conditions, weather (mountain/rural areas), and follow local safety advice for water and adventure activities.
Is New Zealand child-friendly?
Yes, many attractions and accommodations cater to children. Look for playgrounds, family tours, and kid-friendly walking trails when planning your itinerary.
What should we pack for a family trip?
Layers (weather changes fast), waterproof jacket, good walking shoes, sun protection, basic medicines, plug adapters, and a compact first-aid kit. Don’t forget car-seat or booster details if needed.
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