✈️ How to Plan a Trip to New Zealand [UPDATED 2025]

New Zealand isn't just any destination. It's one of those countries that has it all: abundant nature, unique landscapes, a strong local culture, and excellent safety standards. But it's also remote, vast, and—if you don't plan well—can be very expensive and leave you feeling like you've spent more time on the road than actually enjoying it. That's why, plan a trip to New Zealand in advance It's key to make everything fit together: flights, accommodations, transportation, activities, and even the weather. Improvisation doesn't work as well here as it does in other places. Not because it's not possible to travel without reservations, but because you'd miss out on many opportunities if you didn't plan ahead.

In this guide I explain step by step how organize a trip to New Zealand so you can make the most of your time, money, and experiences.

Basic information for organizing a trip to New Zealand

🗣 Language: New Zealand's official language is English, so communicating will be fairly easy if you have a basic or intermediate level. Maori is also an official language and an important part of the local culture, although it's not necessary to master it to get around the country.

💰 Currency: The official currency is the New Zealand dollar (NZD)Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in almost all establishments, but in local markets or rural areas, it's a good idea to carry some cash. ATMs are available in most cities and towns.

🎒 Traditions: New Zealand has a very relaxed and friendly culture. It's common to greet people with a handshake or a simple "Hi!" or "How are you?" Respect for nature is very important, as is following the rules of protected areas and maintaining cleanliness. Punctuality and courtesy are also highly valued.

🔌 Plug: In New Zealand, plugs of type Yo, with a voltage of 230V and frequency of 50HzIf you're traveling from countries in continental Europe or Latin America, you'll need a plug adapter and possibly a voltage converter if your device isn't compatible.

🌿 Activities: New Zealand is a paradise for nature and adventure lovers. You can book tours to visit glaciers, hike the Southern Alps, practice extreme sports in Queenstown, or learn about Maori culture in Rotorua. Buy your activities and excursions here.

📱 Internet: Having an internet connection is very useful in New Zealand, especially if you're traveling alone. An eSIM or Pocket WiFi are good options. Mobile coverage is also good in most areas, although it can be limited in very remote areas. You can reserve your eSIM or Pocket WiFi here.

🩺 Travel Insurance: It is not mandatory to enter New Zealand, but It is highly recommended. Medical care can be expensive if you're not a resident, so having good insurance can save you trouble. You can get your travel insurance here.

Planning a trip to New Zealand: Preparations

When to travel to New Zealand? 🌸☀️🍂❄️

Choosing the best time to visit New Zealand can also be a dilemma, as each season offers something special. This country amazes visitors year-round, from the snowy alpine landscapes of winter to the green, flower-filled valleys of spring. Here's a summary to help you decide based on your tastes:

Spring (September-November): Ideal for seeing nature in bloom, hiking, and enjoying mild temperatures. It's a quiet time of year with fewer tourists. 

Summer (December-February): High season. Long days, moderate heat, tons of outdoor activities, and a packed calendar of festivals and events. Ideal if you want to make the most of every minute. 

Autumn (March-May): Perhaps the most underrated season. The foliage colors, especially in the South Island, are spectacular. There are fewer crowds, and prices are lower. 

Winter (June-August): If you're into snow sports or snowy mountain landscapes, this is your time. Ideal for skiing in Queenstown or visiting the glaciers. 

TIP: If you're looking for peace and quiet and to avoid crowds, avoid traveling during Christmas and New Year's. These are school holidays in New Zealand, and accommodations fill up quickly.

Time difference

New Zealand is in the UTC+12 time zone, and during daylight saving time (September to April) it switches to UTC+13. This means:

• Between 10 and 12 hours ahead of Spain, depending on the time of year.

• Between 15 and 18 hours difference with Latin America.

Unlike Australia, the whole country uses the same time and there's no change by region. This makes planning flights, excursions, and travel much easier.

Advice: Set your watch to local time as soon as you land. Try not to sleep during the day if you arrive in the early morning. Adjusting quickly is key to minimizing jet lag.

✈️ Flights to New Zealand

Traveling to New Zealand isn't cheap, and the choice of dates greatly influences the price of flights. It's normal to pay between €1,000 and €1,600 from Europe, and between €1,200 and €2,000 from Latin America, depending on the season, stopovers, and how far in advance you book.

It's a long, very long flight. Depending on your departure point, you could be traveling for between 24 and 35 hours, including stopovers. Therefore, choosing the right route is key to making the experience as bearable as possible.

Tips for finding cheap flights to New Zealand:

• Use comparators such as Skyscanner or Google Flights.

• Play around with dates and try departures from major airports like Madrid, Paris, or London.

• Don't rule out Asian airlines like Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, or Emirates: they have long but comfortable routes and very good service.

• Consider adding a long layover in Asia or Australia to rest and explore another destination.

TIP: If you can, avoid traveling between mid-December and mid-January. These are the most expensive weeks of the year. Our advice is to play with dates, stopovers and companies using Skyscanner either Trip and compare prices. In this post We tell you our tricks to find cheap flights.

What to pack for New Zealand?

Packing for New Zealand may seem simple, but it isn't. Its climate is highly variable, and you can go from hot to cold in the same day, especially if you visit both islands. The key is to dress in layers and pack a practical backpack.

Clothing according to the season:

🌸 Spring: T-shirts, long pants, light waterproof jacket.

☀️ Summer: cool, breathable clothing, swimsuit, sun protection.

🍂 Fall: Layers, something warm for the evening.

❄️ Winter: coat, gloves, hat, thermal clothing, especially if you are going to high altitudes.

Comfortable shoes

You'll be walking a lot. Mountains, trails, small towns... Comfortable shoes (preferably worn in) are essential.

Plug adapter

New Zealand uses Type I plugs, like Australia, and the current is 230V. You'll need a universal adapter if you're coming from Europe or America.

Essential documentation:

• ✈️ Valid passport.
• 📱NZeTA confirmation (mandatory).
• Ticket to leave the country.
• 🏨 Reservations of accommodation (at least the first few nights) and any other important documents (printed or digital).
• Health insurance (highly recommended).

Useful extras for everyday life:

• Microfiber towel.
• Earplugs (some campsites or hostels are noisy).
• Cloth bag or small backpack for excursions.
• Powerbank.
• Headlamp if you are going camping or hiking in low light.
• Insect repellent, especially if you travel in summer or visit humid areas.

TIP: New Zealand has laundromats in virtually every town and city. You don't need to pack a lot of clothes: you can wash every 5-6 days and travel lighter.

Medical insurance for travel to New Zealand

Although it is not mandatory, Purchasing travel medical insurance for New Zealand is essential.The healthcare system is paid for by tourists, and any consultation, test, or emergency can be expensive.

In our experience, it's smart to have insurance that covers at least:

• General and hospital medical care.

• Accidents and repatriation.

• Flight cancellations or trip interruptions.

• Theft or loss of luggage.

• Sports or outdoor activities (very common in New Zealand).

We Trust In IATI Insurance And that's why we purchase one of their policies on every trip we take. In addition to their coverage, they offer 24/7 assistance in Spanish. Here you can compare the options and choose the policy that best suits your route.

🛏️ Accommodation in New Zealand: Where to stay?

One of the key decisions in your planning will be the accommodationNew Zealand has plenty of options for all budgets and types of travelers, from backpackers to families to couples looking for a charming getaway.

Hotels and motels: Practical, clean, and functional. Ideal for traveling on the road. In small towns, motels are more common than hotels.

Campsites and holiday parks: The most popular option for those traveling by campervan or car. There are hundreds of options spread across the country, from free campsites without services to holiday parks with showers, laundry facilities, and kitchens.

Hostels (Backpackers): Affordable and with a good social atmosphere. Very useful for those traveling alone or looking to share expenses.

Airbnb and apartments: Ideal for longer stays or groups. A convenient option if you prefer to cook or need more space.

Boutique or eco-friendly accommodations: More and more travelers are opting for sustainable and charming accommodations, such as lakefront cabins, tree houses, and family farms.

Recommended option: road trip in a campervan or caravan. If you want the full experience and maximum freedom, traveling around New Zealand in a campervan is one of the best decisions you can make. We did so for much of the trip, and it was one of the things we enjoyed most. Sleeping in front of lakes, waking up among mountains, or cooking with ocean views is simply another level. You can rent everything from small two-person campers to fully equipped family caravans. Plus, there are apps like CamperMate that will help you find a place to sleep each night, whether in free areas or at serviced campsites.

Advice: New Zealand is a popular destination between December and March. If you travel during peak season, book in advance To avoid surprises or excessive prices. We use Booking.com for most reservations, and by having a Genius account, we get discounts and extras like early check-in or included breakfast.

Plus, if you book through our affiliate link, you'll help us continue creating independent, 100% useful content for other travelers like you.

International driving license

If you are planning to do any road trip during your vacation in New Zealand, such as the one we did touring iconic locations of The Lord of the Rings —like Hobbiton, Mount Sunday (Edoras), or Tongariro National Park (Mordor)—, you're going to need a international driving license.

New Zealand is a spectacular country to explore by road. But there are areas, especially in the South Island, where public transportation is either non-existent or infrequent. If you're looking to discover remote places, quiet villages, little-known viewpoints, or travel at your own pace in a campervan, driving is almost essential.

How to apply for an international driving permit?

In Spain it is processed through the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT):

• Costs 10.50 euros.

• Has a validity of one year.

• It is requested by appointment at any time. Traffic Headquarters.

• You will need: your Spanish driver's license, a passport-sized photo, and an official form to fill out.

Here you can find information and complete the process online or make an appointment: DGT – International Permit

TIP: Don't leave it to the last minute. Process it at least 3–4 weeks in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season or if you don't live near a police station.

Planning a trip to New Zealand: necessary documentation 📄✈️

The first and most important thing to do when organizing a trip to New Zealand is to make sure that your passport is in order, with a minimum validity of three months after the date of departure from the countryIt is a mandatory requirement for all international travelers.

If you are thinking about one stay long (beyond tourism), there are several visa options. Many young Spanish, French, or Latin American citizens apply to the Working Holiday visa, which allows you to work and travel in New Zealand for one year (limited places per country).

But if your intention is simply travel to New Zealand for vacation and you have Spanish passportIf you are a Chilean, Argentinian, Mexican, or any other country on the visa-exempt list, you do not need a formal visa. You'll only need to process these two mandatory requirements before flying:

1. NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority)

It is an electronic authorization for tourists from visa-exempt countries.

• It is requested online or from the official app.

• Has a validity of 2 years.

• Allows stays of up to 90 consecutive days per trip.

• Costs 17 NZD if you do it by app, either 23 NZD if you do it from the web.

2. IVL (Mandatory Tourist Tax)

It is the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy, a tax intended for environmental conservation and tourism improvement.

• It is paid together with the NZeTA.

• Costs 100 NZD per person (price updated in 2025).

Additionally, upon arrival in New Zealand you may be asked to provide:

• Ticket to leave the country.

• Proof of accommodation (at least for the first few nights).

• Proof of sufficient funds (it is recommended to demonstrate at least 1,000 NZD per month of travel).

📍 Here you can consult the official list of visa-exempt countries.

If your nationality is not on that list, you will have to process a visa at the New Zealand embassy or consulate that applies to you before you travel.

In this Full post on how to apply for the NZeTA and the requirements for entering New Zealand, We leave you all the details step by step (internal link or future post if you are going to develop it).

Planning a trip to New Zealand: Design your itinerary like a pro 🗺️

New Zealand is one of those destinations where everything is appealing: mountains, beaches, glaciers, Maori culture, quiet cities, and picture-perfect landscapes. So, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. Don't worry, here's a suggested route for a trip. two weeks, combining the best of the North Island and the South Island, with a balance of nature, culture and adventure.

Week 1: North Island – volcanoes, culture and coasts

Days 1-2: Auckland
Start in the country's largest city. Stroll around Viaduct Harbour, climb the Sky Tower, and explore west coast beaches like Piha. Perfect for getting acclimated to the country. 🌇

Day 3: Hobbiton and Rotorua
Make a magical stop at the scenes of The Lord of the Rings in Hobbiton. Then continue to Rotorua, a center of Maori culture and a geothermal area. Don't miss the geysers and a cultural evening with a haka included. 🧙‍♂️🌋

Day 4: Lake Taupo and Tongariro National Park
Drive to New Zealand's largest lake and, if you're feeling brave, try the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the world's most spectacular day hikes (directly inspired by Mordor!). 🏔️

Day 5: Wellington
Explore the country's bohemian and artistic capital. Visit the Te Papa Museum, climb Mount Victoria Lookout, and dine on Cuba Street. 🚠

Week 2: South Island – glaciers, fjords and mountains

Day 6: Ferry to Picton + Kaikoura
Cross the Cook Strait by ferry and begin your South Island adventure. Spend the night in Kaikoura and, weather permitting, go whale or dolphin watching. 🐋

Days 7-8: Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook
Admire the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and climb to the Mount John lookout. Then, head to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park for a glacier hike. ✨

Days 9-10: Queenstown
The adventure capital. Bungee jumping, rafting, hiking, or just soaking up the atmosphere by Lake Wakatipu. Hop on the Skyline Gondola and try a Fergburger. 🚡🍔

Day 11: Milford Sound
Take a day trip to the stunning Milford Sound, cruising past waterfalls and mountains that look like they're straight out of another planet. 🌧️⛰️

Day 12: Wanaka
Relax by Lake Wanaka, visit New Zealand's most photographed tree, and enjoy peaceful trails or the tranquility of the village. 🌳

Days 13-14: Christchurch
End your trip in the most important city in the east. Stroll through its gardens, visit the Riverside Market, and get ready for your return flight. ✈️

Also, remember that if you want help designing your route, organizing each step and making the most of your time, you can consult our Travel Consulting plansWe're here to help you plan your trip to New Zealand with personalized itineraries, recommendations, and insider tips. Take a look and let us help you make your dream a reality.

How much does it cost to travel to New Zealand? 💴💳

New Zealand has always been perceived as an expensive destination, and although it is true that it is not the cheapest in the world, There are ways to adjust the budget if you plan well. What usually increases spending the most is, without a doubt, the plane ticket, especially from Europe or Latin America. But once there, you'll find options for almost every travel style, from backpacking with a campervan to more comfortable trips with hotels and organized activities.

The total estimated cost of a trip of two weeks in New Zealand for two people it is around 3,800 and 5,500 euros, depending on the type of accommodation, activities and means of transport you choose. This equates to an average of between 135 and 200 euros per person per day.

TIP: If you travel in a campervan and cook yourself, you can significantly reduce your daily expenses. Also, traveling during the low or mid-season (April–June or September–November) helps you find better prices on flights and accommodation.

Places in New Zealand that require advance booking 🎟️✨

In a destination as popular as New Zealand, there are experiences that they sell out weeks in advance, especially between December and March. If you want to secure a spot on iconic activities like Hobbiton, Milford Sound, or the Tongariro Crossing, the best thing to do when planning a trip to New Zealand is to is book before arrivingHere's a selection of the most important ones, with links and practical tips.😊

1. Hobbiton Movie Set – Matamata 🧙‍♂️
The tour of the original set of The Lord of the Rings It's one of the most popular in the country. It includes hobbit houses, the Party Tree, and a drink at the Green Dragon Inn.
👉 You can buy your tickets from Klook here, just like we did.

2. Waitomo Glowworm Caves – Waitomo 🌌
Bioluminescent cave with boat tours, caving, and underground rafting. A popular activity, especially in summer.
👉 Tickets and tours

3. Maori Cultural Experience – Rotorua 🔥
Hangi dinners, haka, legends and Maori rituals in Te Pa Tu either Mitai Māori Village. Limited capacity.

4. Polynesian Spa – Rotorua 🛁
Thermal pools with lake views, premium areas, and spa treatments. Ideal for a relaxing day.
👉

5. Bay of Islands – Paihia ⛵
Cruises to watch dolphins, visit islands, or sail to the Hole in the Rock.
👉 Cruises from Paihia

6. Tongariro Alpine Crossing 🥾
One of the best treks in the world. Access is free, but it is necessary book the shuttle if you don't have a car.
👉 Book transport

7. Weta Workshop Unleashed – Auckland ⚔️🎬
An immersive experience featuring special effects, creatures, and movie sets. Perfect for film and fantasy fans.
👉 Visit to Auckland

8. Weta Workshop Experience – Wellington 🎥
Guided tour of the royal workshops where objects of art were created The Lord of the Rings, Avatar, District 9 and more.
👉 Info and tickets

9. Cruise in Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound ⛴️
Stunning fjords with vertical walls, waterfalls, and marine life. If you'd like a guided tour, lunch, or kayaking, it's best to book online.
👉 Do it through RealNZ

10. Scenic Flights – Mount Cook, Fox, or Franz Josef 🚁
Aerial views of glaciers, mountains, and lakes. Weather conditions are crucial, so it's best to book flexibly.
👉 Check routes in The Helicopter Line

11. Heli-hike at Franz Josef Glacier ❄️
Combination of helicopter flight and guided glacier hike. Exclusive activity, very limited space.
👉 Franz Josef Glacier Guides

12. Great Walks – Milford, Routeburn, Kepler… 🏕️
New Zealand's most spectacular walks require booking. accommodation (shelters or campsites) months in advance.
👉 Do it from the official DOC website

13. Skyline Queenstown – Gondola and Luge 🎢
Panoramic gondola, luge slide ride, and restaurant with views. Combos sell out quickly.
👉 Buy your tickets at skyline.co.nz

14. Whale Watching – Kaikoura 🐋
One of the best places in the world to see sperm whales year-round. Departures depend on weather and sea conditions.
👉 Book at Whale Watch Kaikoura

Conclusions

As you can see, New Zealand is a country that offers an endless number of unforgettable experiences.Many of them are free. But, as with the best destinations, if you don't plan ahead, you could waste time, money, or miss out on activities that are absolutely worthwhile.

🎯 My golden advice: Plan ahead, combine free experiences with some well-chosen paid ones and stay flexible in your itinerary. This way you'll enjoy your stay to the fullest. stay in one of the most magical countries on the planet. 🌿🏔️

Do you have questions about your route, budget, or campervan? Leave us a comment or write to us directly at 👉 info@experienceyourdream.com.au and we will be happy to help you.

You can also subscribe to our blog to stay up to date with new routes, tips, and updates, and follow us on social media for more travel inspiration and real-time tips. 🌍💌

Have a good trip and Kiara, traveler! ✈️🇳🇿