New Zealand has the kind of scenery that demands a standing ovation — and it’s all in such close proximity. Our specialists are passionate about helping you get out to explore it all. There are Milford Sound’s arrow-headed peaks, and stretches of sand so vast they earn outlandish names (‘Ninety Mile Beach’). Caves spangle with glow-worms like a million fairy lights. Stratovolcanoes rise above grassy plains. Ice fields career down almost to the edge of the Tasman Sea. And that’s just for starters.
Whether you’re keen to explore on foot or by car, bicycle or even helicopter (or a combination of them all), our specialists can help. They’ll devise a New Zealand holiday that allows you to take in the major destinations, as well as more out-of-the-way spots or lesser-known activities. They can recommend everything from the best Maori guides to the best places for viewing New Zealand’s unique panoply of birdlife.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
New Zealand’s rugged beauty and varied landscapes make it a spectacular destination to visit at any time of year. The summer months of December to March bring long, bright and sunny days, ideal for visiting some of the country’s lovely beaches or enjoying some of the many outdoor activities available, such as hiking and mountain biking. June through to September are likely to bring snow to the South Island as well as some of the North Island’s more mountainous areas, attracting skiers from far and wide. The spring and autumn months herald milder weather and fewer visitors while still being very pleasant times to visit, and a fair sprinkling of rain can be expected throughout the year.
What to Pack
Things to do and see
Food and drink
New Zealand’s food scene has stormed ahead of the game in recent years both in quality of the food and the places where it is served. Often referred to as ‘Pacific Rim’ cuisine, there are obvious influences from Asia, Europe and other parts of the Pacific, fused with New Zealand’s fresh produce. New Zealand lamb also features on almost every menu. For traditionally cooked Maori dishes it is really necessary to experience a ‘hangi’, a feast prepared in an underground oven, steam cooked in the natural thermal heat of the earth.
New Zealand’s wine industry has firmly established itself on the international market. The most recognised regions are Marlborough, which is famed for its sauvignon blanc, and Hawkes Bay which produces excellent chardonnay.
How to Get Around
VISA
UK passport holders require a Cuban Tourist card to visit Cuba: we can arrange this on your behalf. As well as being a fantastic country to visit in its own right Cuba can very easily be combined with Costa Rica or Mexico.
Where i visited
Language
New Zealanders speak English as a first language, although some may still speak traditional Maori.
money and expense
The official currency is the New Zealand dollar. New Zealand dollar traveller’s cheques can be exchanged at all major banks, international airports, foreign exchange bureaus, and all international credit cards are widely accepted. You will be able to access New Zealand currency from Maestro and Cirrus ATM machines (cash point machines) as long as you have a four-digit pin-code.
Tipping
Tipping in New Zealand is not obligatory – even in restaurants and bars.
Social etiquette
New Zealanders are in general warm, friendly and hospitable, and are proud of their country and their heritage. Maori culture is an integral part of the New Zealand way of life and is a strong and growing influence. Social conventions need to be observed when visiting a ‘marae’, the traditional Maori meeting house. Such places are sacred, and should only be visited by invitation from the local tribe. There is a welcoming ritual which will be observed, shoes should be removed before entering the meeting house, and you should sit where indicated. Although this may sound rather solemn and formal, remember that once you have been invited to the marae you are extremely welcome. It is customary after such a visit to leave a donation towards the upkeep of the marae.
Adaptor
WIFI
Ruth’s Lonely Planet 