It’s getting real, you’re about to visit New Zealand for a Holiday. Things can get both exciting and a little stressful when you are planning and packing. Here’s a series of helpful tips to ensure you have a holiday to remember in ‘the land of the long white cloud’. Ten things you must know before you visit New Zealand.In this article, you will find information about travel tips and advice.
#1 Bring Extra Layers
There’s a famous saying that in New Zealand you’ll get to experience four seasons in one day. The weather in New Zealand changes fast, and you can genuinely feel like you’re living all the seasons between morning and evening. Pack extra layers and plan on taking a sweater or coat on most outings.
#2 Choose Transportation Wisely
New Zealand is nicely connected with roads and public transport. A pass for the InterCity Bus or Manabus will usually be the cheapest options. Check out the Bus Networks in New Zealand before you go to familiarize yourself with the options.
#3 When Driving
If you are thinking about driving, do yourself and everyone on New Zealand’s roads a favor, check out the road rules before you visit. New Zealand drive on the left side of the road but there are specific rules about one-way bridges and intersections that you may not be familiar with.
You should also double-check your GPS with another source, especially when heading to a secluded destination as the GPS maps aren’t always 100% reliable in New Zealand. Finally, be aware of the long and winding roads.
#4 Know Your Budget
Expect to pay a little more for everyday items like food and drink and plan your budget accordingly. If you are conscious of costs, plan to cut back on the number of times you eat out and cook for yourself when the situation permits.
Staying in a local motel or backpackers will also be significantly cheaper than some of the better-known hotel chains. Checkout Jasons comprehensive guide to NZ Accommodation.
#5 Don’t Get Burnt
There is a hole in the O-zone layer between Australia and New Zealand which makes UV rays in New Zealand very intense. You can get burnt in as little as seven minutes in the direct sunlight, so lather up with at least SPF 30 before you head out each day – even if it’s cold and clear.
Speaking of protecting yourself, it’s always a good idea to invest in reliable travel cover before you leave. Travel insurance can cover medical expenses, lost luggage, delayed travel and more.
#6 Don’t Feel the Need to Tip
Tipping is not common practice in New Zealand. You’ll never be expected to leave a tip, but if you think that a worker has gone above and beyond with their service, a tip will most certainly be welcomed.
#7 Bring Your ID
If you are 18 years or older you can enter any licensed premises and buy and drink alcohol, as long as you can provide acceptable proof of age identification such as a driver’s license, Hospitality New Zealand (HANZ) card or passport.
You can buy beer, wine and cigarettes from local supermarkets, but once again expect to be asked for ID if you look under 30.
#8 Be Aware of Camping Rules
If you have any intentions of camping or staying in a camper van during your visit New Zealand, be extra sure that you know where you can camp and where you can’t.
There are plenty of camping options available throughout New Zealand. Campgrounds or Holiday Parks are commercial operations that provide a safe and well-equipped camping experience. Prices typically range from between NZD$10 and $40 per site.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) manages over 250 public camping areas on conservation land throughout New Zealand. Facilities are usually pretty basic, but the price can be right. Sometimes even free! Prices range from between NZD$0 and $19 per person. Visit the Department of Conservation’s website to find out more https://www.doc.govt.nz/campsites
Be careful ‘Freedom Camping’ as there are many places that you are not allowed to camp. For more information check out http://www.freedomcamping.org/
#9 Book Directly
It’s likely to be cheaper if you bargain hunt and book yourself rather than going through a travel agent. This is almost always true for flights, activities, and accommodation. Compare prices using a virtual travel booking tool and then go direct to book. Remember to search in ‘incognito mode’ or using private browsing.
