New Zealand

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 religionPopulation: 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,