EXPLORE NEW ZEALAND
Your Comprehensive Destination Guide
At a Glance
Total area: 268,021 sq km (103,483 sq miles)
Capital: Wellington
Religion: Christianity remains the largest religion, though New Zealand is increasingly secular and diverse, with many practicing no religion
Population: 5.2 million
Language: English (official), Māori (official), and New Zealand Sign Language (official)
Currency: New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Banking Hours: Mon–Fri, 9:00 am–5:00 pm
Telephone/Communication: The country code is +64; there is strong mobile and internet coverage throughout the country, including most rural areas
Climate:Generally temperate maritime climate — mild temperatures year-round, with more rainfall on the west coast of the South Island and warmer, drier conditions in the north
VAT in Australia
- New Zealand charges a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 15% on most goods and services.
- Prices include GST, which is generally not refundable for tourists.
Travel Requirements
Entry & Visa
Passport:
- A valid passport is required, with at least three months’ validity beyond the departure date.
Visa:
Many nationalities require an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or visa.
Visitors from visa waiver countries must apply for an ETA and pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).
Vaccinations:
- There are no mandatory vaccinations for entry, but we recommend routine immunizations.
- COVID-19 regulations may apply.
Customs:
- Strict biosecurity laws to protect agriculture and natural ecosystems — declare all food, plant material, and animal products.
Health:
- Healthcare is excellent, and travel insurance is recommended.
Getting there from the US
- New Zealand’s main international airports are Auckland (AKL), Christchurch (CHC), and Wellington (WLG).
- Auckland is the primary hub with direct flights from major global cities, including Sydney, Los Angeles, London, Shanghai, and Singapore.
- Airlines such as Air New Zealand, Qantas, Emirates, and United Airlines operate regular flights.
Travel Safety Tips
Safety:
- New Zealand has low crime rates and is considered safe for travelers.
- Outdoor activities carry some risks (hiking, water sports, adventure tourism), so follow local safety advice.
Emergency number: 111 for police, fire, and ambulance.
Health:
- Tap water is safe to drink nationwide.
- Use sun protection, as intense UV radiation can be strong, especially in the summer.
- Some areas recommend using insect repellent to prevent sandflies and mosquitoes.
Fun Facts!
- Land of the Long White Cloud: Aotearoa is the Māori name for New Zealand, often translated as “Land of the Long White Cloud.”
- Home of the Kiwi: The Kiwi is a native flightless bird and the affectionate nickname for New Zealanders.
- Middle-earth: New Zealand’s landscapes famously served as the backdrop for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films.
- Sheep Outnumber People: New Zealand has about 5 times as many sheep as people.
- Rugby Passion: Rugby union is the country’s national sport, with the All Blacks team known worldwide for their haka war dance and dominance.
- Maori Culture: Māori culture profoundly influences New Zealand’s identity — including language, arts, and ceremonies like the pōwhiri (welcome).
- Adventure Capital: Queenstown is known as the “adventure capital of the world” with bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating, and more.
- Glowworms: Magical glowworm caves in Waitomo attract visitors for an ethereal underground boat ride.
- Clean and Green: New Zealand is famed for its environmental efforts and stunning natural landscapes.
Top Places to Visit in New Zealand
North New Zealand
Auckland, the largest city, is known as the “City of Sails.”
Things to Do:
- Visit the Sky Tower for panoramic city views and adrenaline activities like the SkyJump.
- Explore the vibrant waterfront at Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.
- Ferry trips to nearby islands like Waiheke (renowned for vineyards and beaches) and Rangitoto (a volcanic island with hiking trails).
- Wander the Auckland Domain and visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
- Enjoy the eclectic food scene with diverse cuisines.
Wellington is a capital city with a strong arts, culture, and café scene.
Things to Do:
- Explore Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand’s national museum.
- Take the Wellington Cable Car for city and harbor views, ending at the Botanic Garden.
- Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy craft breweries and restaurants.
- Discover Zealandia, an urban eco-sanctuary with native wildlife.
- Experience lively festivals and a thriving creative community.
Rotorua is a Geothermal wonderland and the heart of Māori culture.
Things to Do:
- Visit geysers, mud pools, and hot springs at Wai-O-Tapu and Te Puia.
- Experience traditional Māori cultural performances and hangi feasts.
- Relax in the Polynesian Spa.
- Explore the nearby Redwood Forest with walking and biking trails.
- Try adventure sports like zorbing and luging.
Taupō: a Gateway to Lake Taupō and Tongariro National Park.
Things to Do:
- Cruise or fish on Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake.
- Visit Huka Falls for spectacular waterfalls.
- Explore Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the world’s best one-day hikes.
- Enjoy hot springs and spa resorts around the lake.
- There are also opportunities for jet boating and skydiving.
Bay of Islands is a picturesque coastal region with over 140 subtropical islands.
Things to Do:
- Boat tours to see dolphins, whales, and historic sites like the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
- Swim, snorkel, and kayak in clear waters.
- Explore charming towns like Paihia and Russell.
- Visit historic sites, including Kerikeri’s Stone Store and Mission House.
Coromandel Peninsula: Stunning beaches, native forests, and a laid-back vibe.
Things to Do:
- Relax at Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your hot pool in the sand.
- Hike the Cathedral Cove coastal walk.
- Visit quaint towns like Whitianga and Coromandel Town.
- Explore native forest trails and waterfalls.
Hamilton is renowned for its gardens and its proximity to Hobbiton.
Things to Do:
- Wander the Hamilton Gardens, an internationally recognized themed garden.
- Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set nearby, the famous filming location for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
- Enjoy river walks and parks in the city.
Napier/Hawke’s Bay: Famous for Art Deco architecture and excellent wineries.
Things to Do:
- Take an Art Deco walking tour of Napier.
- Enjoy wine tastings in the Hawke’s Bay wine region, known for Syrah and Chardonnay.
- Visit the National Aquarium of New Zealand.
- Explore coastal walks and local farmers’ markets.
Discover the natural beauty and wildlife of Whangarei, the Northern gateway.
Things to Do:
- Explore Whangarei Falls and nearby scenic reserves.
- Visit the Town Basin for cafes, galleries, and waterfront parks.
- Take trips to the nearby Tutukaka Coast for diving and beaches.
Travel Tips for North New Zealand
Transport: Renting a car or campervan is the best way to explore many regions. The cities have excellent public transport, but rural areas rely on self-drive.
Culture: Māori culture is strong here. Respect local customs, learn some Māori phrases, and support indigenous tourism.
Weather: Coastal regions have mild climates; inland can have cooler winters, especially around mountains.
Food: Try fresh seafood, lamb, and local wines. The North Island has an exciting café and craft beer scene.
South New Zealand
Queenstown, the Adventure capital of New Zealand, has stunning alpine scenery on Lake Wakatipu.
Things to Do:
- Bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating, and paragliding.
- Take a scenic gondola ride to Bob’s Peak, where you can enjoy panoramic views.
- You can also enjoy wine tours in the nearby Gibbston Valley.
- Explore vibrant bars, restaurants, and nightlife.
- Take day trips to Arrowtown, a historic gold mining village, and Glenorchy, the gateway to the Lord of the Rings landscapes.
Te Anau, Gateway to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound.
Things to Do:
- Boat cruises and kayaking on Lake Te Anau.
- Walk parts of the famous Milford Track.
- Visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves.
- Explore nearby Fiordland’s wilderness with hiking and wildlife spotting.
Christchurch, the Largest city on the South Island, is known for its resilience and cultural revival.
Things to Do:
- Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park.
- Explore the innovative Re: START Mall (container mall).
- Ride the historic tram through the city center.
- Visit the Canterbury Museum and the Quake City exhibition.
- Take day trips to Akaroa, a village inspired by French culture, and explore the Banks Peninsula.
Dunedin is a Scottish heritage, a vibrant university town, and a wildlife hotspot.
Things to Do:
- Tour Larnach Castle and its gardens.
- Explore the Otago Peninsula for albatross and penguin colonies.
- Walk the historic Baldwin Street, the world’s steepest street.
- Visit the Dunedin Railway Station, an architectural gem.
- Enjoy the vibrant café and craft beer scene.
Nelson is known for arts and crafts markets and nearby Abel Tasman National Park.
Things to Do:
- Wander the local artisan markets and galleries.
- Kayak, hike, or take boat tours in Abel Tasman National Park.
- Visit nearby wineries in the Marlborough region.
- Explore golden beaches and native forests.
Greymouth is the largest West Coast town and the gateway to the wild West Coast region.
Things to Do:
- Explore the historic mining past at Monteith’s Brewery.
- Visit nearby Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes.
- Take scenic train rides on the TranzAlpine from Greymouth to Christchurch.
- Enjoy rugged beaches and rainforest walks.
Kaikoura, a capital of marine wildlife, is renowned for its whale watching and seafood offerings.
Things to Do:
- Whale watching tours to see sperm whales, dolphins, and seals.
- Swim or snorkel with wild dolphins.
- Sample fresh crayfish (lobster) and local seafood.
- Take coastal hikes that offer breathtaking views of the mountains and sea.
Franz Josef, Home to Franz Josef Glacier and nearby Fox Glacier on the West Coast.
Things to Do:
- Activities include guided glacier walks and helicopter tours.
- Soak in nearby natural hot pools.
- Explore rainforest trails and waterfalls.
- Visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre to learn about the rare kiwi bird.
Milford Sound is one of the world’s most spectacular fjords, famed for towering cliffs and waterfalls.
Things to Do:
- Scenic cruises through the fjord to see Mitre Peak and waterfalls.
- Kayaking for a more intimate nature experience.
- The Milford Track and other hiking trails begin at this location.
- Scenic flights offer aerial views of the fjord and surrounding mountains.
Travel Tips for South New Zealand
Getting Around: Renting a car or campervan is the best way to explore at your pace. Some towns have limited public transport.
Weather: The West Coast is known for heavy rain; pack accordingly. The South Island’s climate varies from alpine cold in winter to mild summers.
Wildlife: Look for native birds like kea (in alpine areas), penguins, seals, and whales.
Adventure: The South Island is the heart of NZ adventure tourism — perfect for hiking, skiing, kayaking, and more.
Traveling to New Zealand feels like stepping into a dream—a land where glaciers meet rainforests, mountains rise from mirror-like lakes, and Māori culture adds depth and soul to every landscape. It’s a place that doesn’t just show you beauty; it pulls you into it. Whether you’re road-tripping through the South Island’s alpine passes, hiking the Tongariro Crossing, or sipping wine in Hawke’s Bay, every moment feels like a scene from a storybook—and somehow, you’re the main character.
New Zealand isn’t just a destination; it’s a calling for those who crave connection with the land, people, and something deeper within themselves. As the Māori proverb goes:
“He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata.”
“What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people, it is people.”
This line echoes the very heart of Mi Bella Mondo—a beautiful world made more meaningful by the people we meet and the journeys we share. Travel here, and you’ll come back not just with photos but with stories that stay.
New Zealand is not about checking places off a list. It’s about feeling every step, every breath, and every awestruck silence—and that’s precisely what Mi Bella Mondo believes travel should be.