Planning a trip to New Zealand is exciting, but it also requires more preparation than many other long-haul destinations. With a journey of more than 24 hours from the UK, two spectacular islands to explore and an incredible variety of landscapes and experiences, it pays to plan carefully.
The good news is that with the right preparation – or by travelling with an experienced tour operator – organising your New Zealand holiday can be straightforward. Here’s what you need to know before you book.
Decide when you want to travel
One of the first decisions is choosing the time of year. Remember that New Zealand’s seasons are the opposite of those in the UK, so summer falls between December and February.
Each season offers something different:
Summer (December to February) brings warm weather, long daylight hours and excellent conditions for beaches, hiking, wildlife experiences and sightseeing. It’s also the busiest time of year, so accommodation and popular attractions should be booked well in advance.
Autumn (March to May) is one of the best times to visit if you prefer quieter roads and attractions. The weather remains pleasant, vineyards come alive during the grape harvest, and the South Island is particularly beautiful with its autumn colours.
Winter (June to August) is ideal for skiing and snowboarding, particularly around Queenstown and Wanaka. It’s also a wonderful time to experience New Zealand’s famous geothermal pools and hot springs.
Spring (September to November) offers mild temperatures, colourful gardens and fewer visitors, making it an excellent choice for touring both islands.
How long should you stay?
One of the biggest mistakes visitors make is trying to squeeze too much into a short holiday. New Zealand may appear relatively small on a map, but travelling between destinations often takes longer than expected due to winding roads, mountain passes and countless scenic stops.
While it’s possible to visit for a week, you’ll spend much of your time travelling rather than experiencing the country.
For most visitors from the UK:
- Two weeks allows you to see many of the major highlights.
- Three weeks provides a much more relaxed pace and lets you experience both islands properly.
- Four weeks or longer gives you the opportunity to explore lesser-known regions, enjoy longer stays and experience New Zealand beyond the main tourist routes.
If your schedule allows, it’s well worth extending your stay.
Budget carefully
New Zealand offers exceptional value in terms of experiences, but it’s important to budget for the full cost of your trip.
Your budget should include:
- International flights
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Transport
- Excursions and activities
- Travel insurance
- Visa requirements
- Spending money
Booking a tailor-made itinerary or escorted tour can simplify budgeting, as many of the major costs are included from the outset.
Flying from the UK
Travelling from the UK to New Zealand is a significant journey, with total travel times usually between 24 and 30 hours depending on your route and stopover.
Most flights include a connection in Asia or the Middle East before arriving into Auckland or Christchurch, the country’s two main international gateways.
Although the journey is long, modern airlines offer comfortable cabins, in-flight entertainment, meals and overnight facilities that make the trip far more manageable than many first-time visitors expect.
Driving around New Zealand
Hiring a car remains one of the best ways to explore New Zealand.
Driving gives you the freedom to stop at scenic viewpoints, explore quieter areas and travel at your own pace. Visitors from the UK also benefit from driving on the left-hand side of the road.
However, it’s worth remembering that journey times are often longer than expected. A drive of only 200 kilometres can easily take four hours or more once mountain roads and sightseeing stops are taken into account.
If you’re planning to explore more remote areas, an SUV or all-wheel-drive vehicle can offer additional peace of mind.
Don’t forget the practicalities
Before travelling, make sure you’ve covered the essentials.
Travel insurance should always be arranged before departure to protect against unexpected cancellations or medical emergencies.
Visa requirements should also be checked well in advance. UK travellers will normally require the appropriate travel authorisation before entering New Zealand, and requirements can change, so always refer to the official New Zealand Immigration website for the latest guidance before you travel.
Packing also deserves careful thought. New Zealand’s weather can vary considerably between regions and elevations, even during summer. Layers are essential, alongside comfortable walking shoes, waterproof clothing and high-factor sun cream.
Money and spending
New Zealand uses the New Zealand Dollar (NZD).
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout the country, while ATMs are readily available in towns and cities. However, carrying a small amount of cash can still be useful when visiting rural locations, roadside attractions or smaller businesses.
Before travelling, it’s also worth checking whether your bank charges overseas transaction fees.
Unlike some destinations, tipping isn’t expected in New Zealand, although it’s always appreciated for exceptional service.
Make the most of your holiday
With so much to see, planning your itinerary can feel overwhelming. That’s where travelling with an experienced New Zealand specialist makes a real difference.
At All Ways Tailormade, we’ve been creating unforgettable New Zealand holidays for many years. Our carefully planned itineraries allow you to experience the country’s spectacular scenery, unique wildlife and welcoming culture without the stress of organising every detail yourself.
For those wanting to experience the very best of both islands, our 29-Day Small Group Escorted Tour offers an exceptional way to explore New Zealand. Visiting destinations including Auckland, the Bay of Islands, Rotorua, Queenstown and Te Anau, the tour combines luxury accommodation, expert local guides and comfortable transport, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy the journey.
Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning to discover even more of this remarkable country, careful planning will ensure your New Zealand adventure is every bit as memorable as you’ve imagined. Contact us now to find out more.