The national park is a must-see for outdoor. 3 billion to just $950 million according to Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA), an independent association that tracks the country's tourism sector using government. Loaded with natural and man made marvels, the places to visit in New Zealand are magnificent and dramatic setting the country apart. Antigen tests. , Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U. This stunning region of New Zealand is home to heaps of breathtaking hiking trails and viewpoints and is also home to NZ’s highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook. Tickets cost NZ$45. Auckland Weather in Summer. Head up to the top of Mount Victoria for stunning panoramic views. Arrowtown: Arrowtown, on the South Island, is a popular. Visit nearby Lake Hayes, the lakeside village of Glenorchy and historic Arrowtown. 4°F (24. Watch a game of rugby – New Zealand’s national sport. Auckland and Wellington, for example, often have. Go adventuring from Queenstown to Auckland, enjoying the beautiful sights Te Anau, Wellington , and more along the way. How to get to New Zealand’s South Island. Yes, it’s quite easy to combine a trip to Hobbiton with a visit to the Waitomo Caves and Rotorua. Cathedral Cove. Before you visit just make sure to know the basic rules of the road and be extra cautious at first. It’s easy to see how Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy has transformed New Zealand’s tourism industry. Hotel prices are significantly lower than summer and availability. Learn about the COVID-19 requirements for travelling to New Zealand, visa and entry requirements and what sort of travel visa you might need. 3 Coromandel Peninsula. CAPITAL: Wellington. Take a stroll through the heart of the city on Te Ara I Whiti/The Light path or Pink Light Path which stretches from Upper Queen. Possums are the national pest. Average high: 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius)Located on the west coast of the South Island, the Hokitika Gorge is one of those rare places that look as good as the pictures. Ash James. Moeraki Boulders. The Great Walks are very popular with locals and tourists, so it's essential to book a spot in the huts—where you'll rest along the way—in advance. Hobbiton in Matamata. Economy: $1,734. Rotorua is especially worth a visit during this time, as temperatures average around 20°C and many of the natural spas and Maori. From the volcanic landscape of the North Island to the snow-capped mountains of the South Island. However, despite the smell, Rotorua is a great location. Never will you find so many amazing natural attractions than in New Zealand. Here are 20 of the best. 12 The Best Time to Visit New Zealand. Showing the full scale of Mount Cook National Park on the way to the Mueller Hut on the Sealy Tarns Track. Hostels in New Zealand are similarly priced to Western Europe or North America, so you won’t be cruising around spending $5 a day like you might in Southeast Asia. Here are some expert tips to help you plan the perfect ski trip in New Zealand: Tip #1: Choose the right time to visit New Zealand for skiing. Franz Josef ** and Fox Glaciers: can helicopter-hike onto the glaciers, or do free hikes. Located at New Zealand's southernmost point, the Rakiura Track is a leisurely hike in a peaceful natural environment full of beaches, bushes, and birds. 82 NZD (53. Please note that when you book a MoaTrek tour, we can put you in touch with one of our trusted partners who can arrange flights for you. Tourism News is the email update featuring news, insights, events and more. And if you want to brave the crowds and summer heat, February is the best time to hit the beaches. New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere, so. H e re are all the great reasons to visit New Zealand. Munro Beach. Eligibility, testing and vaccination requirements to travel into New Zealand (opens in new window) Learn more about New Zealand's 5-step plan to re-open borders (opens in new window)8 Reasons Everyone Should Visit New Zealand. 1. 2 Countries. The scenery is even more beautiful and you’ll get many of those famous landscapes to yourself. The area is home to some truly spectacular coastal scenery, deserted beaches, and lovely walking trails. This will be one of the most diverse days in the whole South Island Itinerary. Best time to visit. High temperatures are often in the high 70s (Fahrenheit) or more. The best time to visit New Zealand is during the summer months of December to March. It is a stunning natural attraction where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. Begin your journey to the beautiful game in Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand's largest city with a vibrant waterfront, beaches and islands. Related Article: 2 Week South Island New Zealand Itinerary. Rebuilding the tourism industry will take time. Abel Tasman National Park was founded in 1942 and is named for Abel Tasman, who was the first European explorer to see New Zealand in 1642. They’re our top picks for what not to miss! 1. Expect long, bright, sunny days and temperatures between 61°F and 75°F. Mount Cook National. Here are the top 10 things to do in Queenstown. If you're a skier, ski season starts in early June and runs through late October. Some of the top attractions include: – Milford Sound: Located in Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is a breathtaking fjord known for its towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Activities – this can vary so much depending on what you do. Temperature: 20-24ºC (68-75ºF) Rainfall: 60-100mm (2. The Te Papa Museum, which also goes by the longer name of the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, is New Zealand’s national museum. Discover the unmissable activities and attractions of New Zealand, from vibrant Māori culture to epic national parks. Image Source. With rugged coastlines, dense forests, and pristine beaches, it is. 5 million visitors to New Zealand in 2017, and this is set to grow by 23% by 2024. Puzzling World. 2. There’s a wide range of attractions and activities all throughout the country. Perched on the North Island near Waitomo, the Glowworm Caves are a stunning sight to see. On the hike, visitors might even catch a. duration: 2. South regions, like Otago, can be reached by Queenstown Airport (ZQN), or by Dunedin Airport (DUD) In the Canterbury wine region, fly into Christchurch Airport. It is the largest lake in New Zealand based on surface area, and the lake, in its volcanic bowl, is a beautiful place to visit. Monthly number of international visitor arrivals to New Zealand 2019-2023. Te Urewera is a protected area and former national park in the area of Te Urewera, near the east coast of New Zealand's North Island. A visit to Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand’s national museum. This guide will point out how driving in New Zealand differs from other countries, including: You must hold a valid driving license. Roy’s Peak, Wanaka. High Season: December to February. Take a walk along the picturesque Wellington waterfront. With average highs ranging between 61 and 69 degrees Fahrenheit (16 and 21 degrees Celsius) and average lows lingering around 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius), the temperature in October is usually tolerable, but strong winds and sudden storms can put a damper on otherwise pleasant days. Top places to visit. Ride the picturesque Hauraki Rail Trail along the Ohinemuri River through the dramatic Karangahake Gorge. NZeTA – Immigration New Zealand. MOST POPULAR Hobbiton Movie Set Tour. December to February is the best time for outdoor activities and festivals. The visa waiver countries, therefore the countries that need an NZeTA, include:Before you can enter New Zealand you must be in good health or be granted a medical waiver. The high season in New Zealand is synonymous with summer. Cape Reinga is nearly the most northern point of New Zealand’s North Island. A walking track 33km (20. 20 reasons to visit New Zealand, now that we finally can. Don't get Caught without Travel Insurance! 1. Take a wine tour of Waiheke Island. Other requirements. The east coast is much milder, with sandy beaches suitable for swimming and generally lower rainfall. Picture yourself cruising down the West Coast of the South Island, stopping to look at the Pancake Rocks and Franz Josef Glacier. Explore the Geothermal Areas. Before you buy travel. Medical Treatment Visitor Visa. Single entry Visitor Visa. 50) ELECTRICITY: 230/240 volt with 2 or 3 pins, the same as Australia and parts of Asia. 1. The Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary. Queenstown is one of the best places to visit in New Zealand when it comes to adrenaline-pumping attractions and a world-class skiing experience. TRAVEL SPECIAL: Eichardt's Private Hotel. Discover the diverse and beautiful destinations, experiences and culture of New Zealand. And while most travelers are drawn to New Zealand for those epic experiences out in nature – the open spaces, the. The Catlins, a hidden gem on the often-missed East Coast of New Zealand's South Island, is actually full of amazing spots to visit. New Zealand has some of the greatest scenic drives in the world. Torpedo Bay Navy Museum (Free entry for New Zealanders) – Located in Devonport, it’s an easy ferry ride from the. Welcome to New Zealand. 16. Summer tends to be the warmest and driest season in New Zealand. New Zealand is set to remove most remaining Covid rules, giving the green light for restriction-free travel. December to March is considered to be the best time to visit New Zealand. As well as being full of gorgeous beaches and islands, this is one of the most significant places in New Zealand history. The number of tourists exploring the two islands does as well! Of course, these factors go hand-in-hand (good weather brings more people; bad weather turns them away), so it’s essential to consider them simultaneously when deciding. The Coromandel, on New Zealand's North Island, is known for its pristine beaches, native forests and a laid-back vibe. Nature & Wildlife. Travellers entering New Zealand do not need pre-departure tests or proof of COVID-19 vaccination to enter New Zealand. While lighthouses around the world might often pass you by, New Zealand’s Pencarrow Lighthouse is somewhat different. The average temperature ranges from 15 degrees to 21 degrees Celsius which is accompanied by a cool breeze at all times. The Rere Rockslide and Rere Falls – slide down the world’s longest natural waterslide. Looking for cheap airfare to New Zealand? 25% of our users found tickets to New Zealand for the following prices or less: From Los Angeles $606 one-way - $687 round-trip, from New York John F Kennedy Intl $1,196 one-way - $1,479 round-trip, from Houston George Bush Intcntl $1,457 one-way - $1,661 round-trip. In fact, some of the best weather days I’ve experienced in Queenstown have been at the start of fall (in March). 4 Tekapo, Wanaka and Aoraki/Mt. Swim with dolphins in Kaikoura. If you are on a tight budget and watch your spending closely, you could get by with a daily budget of $60 – $90 per person. ; Queenstown: The adventure. Auckland. S. Explore the North Island's must-visit places and top attractions in one week with our travel guide, including the best things to do, tips on how to get around. Yellow Door Hobbit Hole in New Zealand. New Zealand has some of the greatest scenic drives in the world. to 8:00 p. A U. Stop in the town of Matamata in the Waikato region en route to take a guided tour of the Hobbiton film set. Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Oh the waterfalls! Obviously yes! Milford Sound is the most famous fiord in New Zealand and is without a doubt one of the most popular places to visit in New Zealand. 2. Here are the basics about travel to New Zealand. For nighttime you will probably want to add a light jersey (sweater). If you’re looking for a quick & easy list, these are our very top recommendations for things to do in New Zealand on your first visit. The currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar [NZD]. Many families also visit in this season as the New Zealand and Australian long school holidays fall in summer. Tiny, out-of-the-way Stewart Island lies off the South Island at the very, very bottom of New Zealand. The Wellington and Te Papa museums are solid options for some educational (but fun) activities when you need a break from New Zealand's unpredictable weather. Checking Kiwi country off your bucket list? Read up on the best places to go in New Zealand, including the Bay of Islands, Milford Sound, and Auckland. The 19km hike traverses ancient volcanic terrain, winding its way past emerald lakes, old lava flows and even an active crater. 2. For millennia, Māori have been the tangata whenua, the indigenous people of Aotearoa. m. Looking for cheap airfare to New Zealand? 25% of our users found tickets to New Zealand for the following prices or less: From Los Angeles $606 one-way - $687 round-trip, from New York John F Kennedy Intl $1,196 one-way - $1,479 round-trip, from Houston George Bush Intcntl $1,457 one-way - $1,661 round-trip. Pearls of 144 islands adorn the necklace of Bay of Islands. Discover historic Waihi and the stories behind one of New Zealand's oldest mining towns. Lake Tekapo is a stunning blue lake almost perfectly located in the centre of the South Island of New Zealand. Autumn: March to May. For a packing list to match the weather in May, see Packing List for Autumn or Spring in New Zealand. If travelers to New Zealand have to choose just one historic site to visit, it should be Waitangi. CURRENCY: New Zealand Dollar (See current exchange rates) (1 beer cost $9NZD = USD$5. White water rafting, jet boating, kayaking, skydiving, heli-skiing… you get the idea. Find out how to get to New Zealand and how to book your trip. Here’s how to visit with kids. 13. Few destinations boast so many staggering natural wonders packed into such a small area. 1″) South Island Rainfall: 60-100mm. April is a moderate month for rainfall, with cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Queenstown receiving just 3. Welcome to New Zealand. In winter, when the days are short and the nights are long, New Zealand offers the perfect conditions to see the Aurora Australis which can sometimes be seen as far north as Wellington. Oamaru. When coming to New Zealand to visit, study or work, you are strongly encouraged to get travel insurance. There are many reasons to Visit New Zealand including adventure travel, hiking, water sports, and culture but for me, capturing the beauty of its diverse scenery was what made it so memorable. Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook are some of the most photogenic places to visit in New Zealand, and it is best done together. Want More Information on New Zealand? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on New Zealand for even more planning tips! Photo credits: 2 – Fat Cat Travellers Community, 3 – Haka Lodge, 4 – Hekerua Lodge Backpackers, 5 – Verandahs Parkside Lodge, 6 – Waiheke Backpackers Hostel, 7 – The Attic Backpackers. Winter in New Zealand begins on the June solstice and ends on the September equinox. 13 You should seriously consider Hiring a Campervan. New Zealand has a diverse landscape with snow-covered mountains and minimal light pollution. Located in a sleepy town called Matamata, just a two-hour drive away from Auckland, it is a real-life movie set that was used in the Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings and Hobbiton movie trilogies based on J. The answer is, it depends. An. 2. It is the busiest month of the year, one of the wettest, and the wildflowers are not yet in bloom. The North Island is generally warmer and more humid than the south. to 8:00 p. Don’ forget to check out the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute & see local Maori carvers in action. 0) For anybody who has yet to visit, New Zealand finds its way onto the travel wish lists of most people, and it remains a firm favourite with those who have had the.