15 Traveling to New Zealand Tips: Your Ultimate Guide for Family Adventures in Kiwi Paradise

Planning a trip to the north island of New Zealand? We’re so excited for you! This stunning island nation in the South Pacific offers some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes, from dramatic mountains to pristine beaches.

Knowing what to expect before you arrive in New Zealand, including visa requirements, will make your adventure so much more enjoyable and stress-free. Visiting during the off season can also provide better deals on activities and accommodation, making your trip more affordable and enjoyable.

We’ve put together our favorite travel tips to help you make the most of your Kiwi adventure. Whether you’re renting a car to explore the countryside, figuring out the entry requirements, or just trying to save some cash along the way, we’ve got you covered. While renting a car or campervan provides access to remote areas, it may not be the most budget-friendly method of travel; consider using public transport as an alternative.

Trust us, a little planning goes a long way when you’re heading to a destination that’s literally on the other side of the world for many travelers!

1) Pack for all seasons—yup, this includes raincoats and swimsuits!

New Zealand’s weather can be super unpredictable, especially in areas known for their alpine scenery ! We’ve learned the hard way that you can literally experience all four seasons in a single day. No joke!

The locals even have a saying about their four seasons in one day, and they aren’t kidding. One minute you’re soaking up sunshine, the next you’re caught in a downpour!

A good raincoat is absolutely non-negotiable for your New Zealand adventure. Trust us on this one! Even if the forecast looks clear, pack that waterproof layer.

Don’t forget swimwear too! New Zealand has gorgeous beaches, hot springs, and lakes that are totally worth jumping into when the sun makes an appearance.

We recommend packing clothes for every weather condition if you’re planning to hike (which you totally should!). Layering is your best friend here.

For our backpacking mamas, consider taking just one swimsuit instead of multiple to save precious backpack space. You can always wash it out at night!

The season you visit will obviously impact what you pack, but we always suggest having options on hand. Better safe than sorry!

2) Bring a power adapter, the plug shape might surprise ya!

New Zealand uses Type I power plugs that have three flat pins arranged in a triangular pattern. This is definitely not what we use in the US, and it can be a total vacation buzzkill to arrive and realize you can’t charge your phone!

We learned this the hard way on our first trip. Nothing like panicking at the hotel when your phone is at 2% and you can’t plug in your charger!

The voltage in New Zealand is also different – they run on 230/240V with 50Hz, compared to our 110V in America. Don’t worry though! Most modern devices like phones and laptops can handle both voltages.

You can find simple US to NZ adapters that are way less bulky than full converters. We suggest grabbing one before your trip, but if you forget, they’re available in shops throughout New Zealand.

Pro mom tip: Pack a power strip with your adapter! This way, you can charge multiple devices with just one adapter. Game changer when the whole family needs to juice up those devices!

3) Plan your drives—New Zealand roads can be super twisty.

Okay, we need to talk about those New Zealand roads! They’re absolutely gorgeous but can be way more challenging than we expected. The South Island has some of the most scenic drives you’ll ever experience, but those stunning views come with twisty mountain passes. The unique road conditions, such as sharp curves and steep grades, require extra caution.

We learned the hard way that driving times in New Zealand aren’t like driving at home. What looks like a quick two-hour trip can easily turn into four hours of concentration-heavy driving. Those Google Maps estimates? Take them with a grain of salt and add extra time!

Driving in New Zealand can be super tiring, especially if you’re used to highways and straight roads. We recommend planning for plenty of rest breaks. Allocating specific travel days ensures you have adequate time for exploration and enjoyment of the scenic routes.

Seriously, pull over at those scenic lookouts—your Instagram will thank you and so will your stress levels.

When mapping out your trip, try to avoid planning really long driving days. We found that limiting ourselves to 3-4 hours of actual driving time per day kept the trip fun rather than exhausting. And isn’t that what vacation is all about?

4) Don’t skip the local fish & chips, they’re delish!

Let’s talk about a New Zealand must-try that we absolutely fell in love with – fish and chips, but don’t forget to try some adventure sports too ! Seriously, we can’t rave enough about this classic Kiwi treat.

New Zealand’s fish and chips are something special. What makes them stand out? The fish is incredibly fresh, often caught that very day! We’re talking melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness that’ll have you coming back for more.

Many travelers search for the best fish and chips in New Zealand, and honestly, there are amazing options throughout the country. From tiny hole-in-the-wall shops to beachside stands, the quality is consistently fantastic.

We recommend looking for places where locals queue up – that’s always a good sign! The perfect fish and chips should be fresh, not greasy, and absolutely scrumptious.

Don’t be surprised if your fish and chips come wrapped in paper – that’s part of the authentic experience! Many Kiwis enjoy theirs as a beach picnic, which we highly recommend trying.

The quality of food in New Zealand is exceptional across the board, but fish and chips hold a special place in our hearts!

5) Rent a car for road tripping—freedom vibes all the way!

Exploring New Zealand by your own car is literally the BEST way to experience this gorgeous country! We absolutely loved having the freedom to stop whenever we spotted those jaw-dropping views (which happens like every five minutes).

Booking a smaller car is super smart if you’re nervous about driving there. The roads can get pretty narrow and winding in some places! Many travelers recommend booking compact hatchbacks since even standard sedans can feel massive on those Kiwi roads.

When planning your rental, think about which direction you’re heading. Cars tend to “pile up” in Queenstown, so it might be cheaper to drive south to north rather than the other way around. Do some comparison shopping to find the best deal!

Consider starting your journey in Christchurch, a key city connected by flights, and a great destination to include when planning a trip around the South Island.

We totally recommend checking out companies like JUCY for a fun New Zealand road trip experience. Their bright green and purple vehicles are iconic and make for cute travel photos!

Remember to factor in gas money (they call it petrol) and parking fees when budgeting. Trust us – having your own wheels gives you those ultimate freedom vibes that make Kiwi adventures unforgettable!

6) Respect NZ’s smoking rules: no puffing near public entrances!

Hey parents, listen up! If you’re planning a family trip to New Zealand during warm weather, and you’re a smoker, there are some serious rules you need to know about. If you’re planning a family trip to New Zealand and you’re a smoker, there are some serious rules you need to know about. New Zealand takes their smoking laws very seriously!

The big one? You absolutely cannot smoke in cafes, bars, restaurants, or any public buildings. This includes standing near entrances too! No quick puff while waiting for the kids to tie their shoes outside a shop.

We learned this the hard way when my sister got some major side-eye for lighting up near a mall entrance. Awkward!

Remember that all workplaces are completely smokefree too.

Also, you gotta be at least 18 to buy or smoke cigarettes in NZ. The same goes for those trendy vaping products too! So keep those out of reach of curious teens.

When we rented our car, we noticed signs saying no smoking allowed. That’s because smoking isn’t permitted inside rental vehicles either! Same goes for hotels and other accommodations.

It’s also crucial to ensure you have proper health insurance coverage, especially considering the potential costs for medical care overseas. Health insurance is important as healthcare access can vary between urban and rural areas in New Zealand.

7) T-i-m-e, take it! The scenery is to die for, slow it down.

New Zealand’s landscapes, especially in national parks, are absolutely jaw-dropping. We can’t stress enough how important it is to slow your roll while traveling there! Racing from place to place means missing half the magic.

New Zealand offers epic outdoor activities and beautiful landscapes that appeal to nature-loving travelers. Many of the country’s major attractions are outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for families and adventurers alike.

When driving those winding Kiwi roads, we recommend taking it nice and easy. Those narrow, curvy routes can be tricky, but they also offer some of the most spectacular views you’ll ever see.

Go slow to enjoy the scenery – this isn’t a race!

We learned the hard way that cramming too many activities into each day is a recipe for exhaustion and missed opportunities. Build extra time into your schedule for those unexpected “OMG stop the car!” photo moments.

New Zealand has everything from rainforests and beaches to mountains and glaciers – often within a short drive of each other! This incredible diversity is what makes NZ so special, but you’ll miss it if you’re rushing.

Remember, some of our favorite NZ memories happened when we weren’t even trying. That random picnic spot with the mountain view? The sunset we caught because we weren’t in a hurry? Pure magic! Take a breath, look around, and soak it all in.

8) Book a ferry ride to explore islands, ferry fun!

New Zealand’s gorgeous islands are waiting for us, mamas! One of the best adventures we can have is hopping on a ferry to explore beyond the main islands.

The Interislander ferry is a fantastic way to travel between the North and South Islands. These aren’t tiny boats – they’re huge vessels where we can even bring our cars along! How convenient is that?

Waiheke Island is a must-visit spot just a short ferry ride from Auckland. We’re talking gorgeous vineyards, stunning beaches, and the perfect excuse to enjoy a glass of wine with the girls while soaking in breathtaking views!

Don’t forget about the smaller island adventures too. Pack some snacks, bring the kids (or leave them with partners for a girls’ day!), and make a whole day of your island-hopping adventure.

Ferry rides give us that magical combination of transportation AND sightseeing. The views from the water are absolutely incredible – perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots that’ll make everyone back home super jealous!

Remember to book tickets ahead during peak season (December-February). We learned this the hard way when tickets sold out faster than our toddlers could spill juice on our white shirts!

Planning your itinerary in advance is crucial due to the vast distances between cities and towns. Accommodations and restaurants can quickly fill up, especially on weekends, so making reservations is essential to avoid inconvenience during your travels.

9) Try a bungy jump—if you dare, it’s an adrenaline must-do!

New Zealand is literally the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping, and we think it’s a must-try for any thrill-seeker! When we visited, our hearts were practically beating out of our chests as we stood on that platform.

For those looking for more aerial thrills, New Zealand offers unforgettable experiences like hot-air balloon rides and helicopter excursions.

You can find bungy jumping spots all over the country – from bridges and rail viaducts to platforms on cliff edges. Talk about options for your screaming pleasure!

Queenstown is the hotspot for this wild adventure. We nearly passed out (from excitement, obviously) at the AJ Hackett bungy sites where the views are just as breathtaking as the jump itself.

Not gonna lie, mamas – the moment before you jump is TERRIFYING. But that rush? Totally worth it! We were shaking and laughing hysterically afterward.

Remember, there are some essential dos and don’ts to keep in mind. Safety first, even when you’re being totally wild!

If you’re on the fence, we get it! Read up on what to expect before committing. It’s perfectly okay if you decide to just be the photographer instead!

10) Visit Hobbiton and live your best Middle Earth life

OMG, we couldn’t write a New Zealand travel guide without mentioning Hobbiton and the amazing art galleries! This magical movie set from The Lord of the Rings is seriously one of the coolest experiences you’ll have in New Zealand.

Located near the town of Matamata, Hobbiton Movie Set is a must-visit for any traveler – even if you’re not a die-hard LOTR fan! Trust us, the charm of those adorable hobbit holes will win anyone over.

Make sure to book your tour in advance because this place is super popular! The guided tours take you through the entire Shire, and we recommend getting the tour that includes a drink at the Green Dragon Inn for the full experience.

For example, when visiting Hobbiton, consider packing attire that balances casual comfort with a stylish look suitable for urban settings. This will ensure you are comfortable while exploring and look great in photos.

Don’t forget your camera because every corner of this place is Instagram gold! The attention to detail is mind-blowing – from the tiny clothes hanging on laundry lines to the vegetable gardens and fruit trees.

We suggest visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best lighting for photos. And hey, no shame in pretending you’re Frodo or Bilbo for a day – we definitely did!

11) Stay left! Driving on the left side is the Kiwi way.

One of the biggest adjustments for many travelers to New Zealand is driving on the left-hand side. It’s the golden rule of Kiwi roads, and we’ve all had that moment of panic when we’ve temporarily forgotten! New Zealand, like other Commonwealth countries, follows this practice, so understanding local road rules is crucial when traveling in different countries.

The steering wheel is on the right side of the car, which feels super weird at first. Our brains kept wanting to hop in on the “wrong” side during our first few days! Don’t worry if you do this too—we’ve all been there.

Those traffic circles (roundabouts) can be tricky at first. Remember to yield to traffic already in the circle and signal when exiting. It becomes second nature after a few tries!

We found that staying oriented to the right side of your lane can be the hardest part. A helpful trick: position yourself as the driver toward the center of the road. This helps keep your car properly positioned!

Give yourself extra time when you first start driving. The combo of new roads, gorgeous distracting scenery, and different driving rules means you’ll want to take it slow. We promise it gets easier!

12) A 100% Pure New Zealand trip isn’t complete without their wine—cheers!

New Zealand’s wine scene is absolutely divine, ladies! Make sure to have enough new zealand dollars for those tastings. We couldn’t believe how amazing their vineyards are until we experienced them firsthand. The rolling hills covered in grape vines are like something out of a dream.

New Zealand’s distinct seasons offer a unique backdrop for wine tasting, with outdoor activities available during summer from December through February.

Marlborough region is THE place for Sauvignon Blanc lovers. We still dream about those crisp, zesty flavors that practically dance on your tongue! Trust us, even if you’re not usually a wine person, these might convert you.

Central Otago has the most gorgeous Pinot Noir you’ll ever taste. We spent an afternoon at a wine tasting there, and honestly? Best day of our trip!

Don’t worry about fancy wine knowledge either. Kiwis are super chill and happy to explain everything without any snobbery. The vineyard staff made us feel like wine experts by the end of our tastings!

Many vineyards offer tours where you can see how they make the wine. We loved seeing the behind-the-scenes process almost as much as the tastings themselves!

Pack a picnic and make a day of it. We grabbed some local cheese and bread to enjoy with our wine flights. Pure magic!

13) Maori culture moments—attend a traditional show to learn and be wowed.

When we visited New Zealand, our absolute favorite memory was experiencing the rich Māori cultural performances that totally blew us away! It’s like stepping into another world with powerful dancing, soul-stirring songs, and incredible traditions.

Of course, understanding local customs and logistics is part of the necessary preparation for a successful visit. The most popular spots for these shows are in Rotorua, which is basically the heart of Māori culture in New Zealand. We were lucky enough to visit the Tamaki Māori Village where we got to enjoy an authentic hangi dinner (food cooked in an earth oven) and a mind-blowing performance!

During these shows, you’ll see the famous haka (ceremonial dance), hear beautiful waiata (songs), and learn about their fascinating myths and legends. Trust us, the fierce expressions and rhythmic movements will give you chills in the best way possible!

We think it’s super important to show respect when enjoying these cultural experiences. Ask questions, be polite, and take time to learn about their ways. The performers are usually super friendly and happy to share their heritage with curious visitors like us!

14) Cell phones are a no-go while driving. Safety first, dears!

Listen up, mama friends! When we’re road-tripping through gorgeous New Zealand, we need to keep those phones tucked away while driving.

It’s not just unsafe – it’s actually illegal to use a handheld phone while driving in NZ!

We know how tempting it is to snap a quick pic of those stunning mountains or check that message from the kids. But New Zealand takes this rule super seriously and holds a very strict stance against cell phone use behind the wheel.

If we absolutely must take a call, New Zealand does have limited circumstances where it’s legally acceptable to use phones while driving. But honestly, we think it’s best to just pull over safely if you need to check those messages!

Many of us anxious drivers already have enough to worry about on unfamiliar roads. Adding phone distractions to the mix? No thanks!

Let’s keep our eyes on those gorgeous winding roads and our hands on the wheel. Safety first, adventure second!

15) Sunblock is your BFF for unexpected sunny hikes—ooh la la.

OMG, let’s talk about something super important when visiting New Zealand – the sun is no joke there! The UV exposure in New Zealand is seriously intense, even on cloudy days.

We learned this the hard way when we thought a quick morning hike wouldn’t need sunscreen. Big mistake! Our shoulders were lobster-red by lunchtime. Yikes!

Remember the classic slip, slap, slop motto they use in New Zealand? It’s life-saving advice – slip on a shirt, slap on a hat, and slop on that sunscreen!

And don’t be fooled by that “reapply every two hours” rule. It actually means two hours of total sun exposure, not just time passed.

If you’re sweating on those gorgeous trails or taking a dip in that crystal clear water, you’ll need to reapply even sooner!

We always pack the highest SPF we can find – at least SPF 50! Those unexpected sunny moments on your hikes will thank you later. Trust us, your future skin will be grateful you showed it some love!

Packing Like A Pro

Getting your luggage right can make or break your New Zealand adventure! We’ve learned through many airport meltdowns and overstuffed backpacks that smart packing saves both stress and money. Travelers should also be aware that they may need to present proof of COVID-19 vaccination before entering New Zealand.

While New Zealand does not require pre-departure tests or proof of COVID-19 vaccination for entry, it is advisable to check with airlines or cruise providers as they may still require proof of vaccination.

Must-Have Essentials

Let’s talk about what you absolutely need for Kiwi-land! Layering is key for New Zealand’s unpredictable weather.

Pack a mix of tanks, short and long-sleeve tops – but skip cotton! Look for wool or synthetic fabrics that wick away moisture when you’re hiking those gorgeous trails.

Don’t forget these lifesavers:

• Waterproof jacket (trust us on this one!)

• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots

• Hat and sunglasses (NZ sun is FIERCE)

• Daypack for adventures

• Sunscreen (the UV is no joke)

We always throw in a light cardigan that goes with everything. Even in summer, evenings can get chilly, especially near the mountains or coast.

Avoiding Overpacking

We’ve all been there – sitting on our suitcase, promising never to bring so much stuff again! The trick is focusing on versatile pieces that mix and match.

Aim for a capsule wardrobe of 4-5 shirts, 2-3 pants, and one nice outfit for evenings out.

Remember laundry exists in New Zealand too! Many accommodations have washing facilities, so you can pack for about a week regardless of trip length.

One-bag travelers recommend:

• Rolling clothes instead of folding

• Using packing cubes (game changers!)

• Limiting shoes to 2-3 pairs max

• Bringing travel-size toiletries only

Your future self will thank you when you’re not lugging massive bags up hotel stairs or through airports. Plus, you’ll have room for all those cute souvenirs!

Navigating Kiwi Culture

Kiwis (New Zealanders, not the fruit or bird!) have a unique culture that’s friendly but comes with its own set of customs and funny phrases. We’ve picked up some essentials you’ll want to know before your trip!

When planning your journey, it’s worth noting that flights from Europe to New Zealand can be quite expensive compared to other destinations.

Understanding Local Etiquette

When visiting New Zealand, you’ll notice Kiwis are super laid-back but still have some cultural norms worth knowing.

Always take off your shoes before entering someone’s home – this shows respect and is practically universal throughout the country!

Māori culture is a huge part of New Zealand’s identity. If you’re lucky enough to visit a marae (Māori meeting ground), be ready to participate in a traditional welcome ceremony. Don’t worry – they’ll guide you through it!

Tipping isn’t expected in New Zealand. Seriously! The staff already earn decent wages, so don’t feel obligated to leave extra cash.

If the service was absolutely amazing, a small tip is appreciated but never required.

Kiwis value punctuality for business but are more relaxed for social gatherings. And they’re big on environmentalism – so remember to respect nature and follow the “leave no trace” principle during your adventures!

Kiwi Slang And Phrases

Kiwi English is adorable but can be confusing if you’re not prepared! Here are some phrases you’ll definitely hear:

• “Sweet as” – This means “cool” or “great” (not comparing sweetness to anything!)

• “Jandals” – What we’d call flip-flops or thongs

• “Dairy” – Corner store or convenience store, not where cows live!

• “Chilly bin” – A cooler for keeping drinks cold

• “Bach” – A holiday home (pronounced “batch”)

You might get confused when Kiwis talk about their “tramping” adventures. They’re just talking about hiking! And if someone offers you some “kai,” they’re being super nice and offering food.

The letter “i” in Kiwi English sounds more like “u,” so “fish and chips” sounds like “fush and chups.” We found it absolutely charming! Don’t be surprised if conversations end with “yeah nah” (meaning no) or “nah yeah” (meaning yes) – it’s just how Kiwis communicate!