The Only 15 New Zealand Travel Tips You’ll Ever Need in 2025
Before our first trip to New Zealand, we thought we had everything planned, but we were in for some surprises. From figuring out the best ways to get around to avoiding rookie mistakes, we learned a lot along the way.
To help you avoid the same pitfalls, here are the only New Zealand travel tips you’ll need.
Travel Tips for New Zealand
Below are the 15 travel tips for New Zealand that’ll help you have the best trip possible.
1. Give Yourself More Time to Travel Between Places
New Zealand looks small, but don’t let that fool you. From what we’ve seen, the roads are winding, and things are way more spread out than they seem on a map.
If Google Maps says a drive will take four hours, it’s best to add at least an extra hour for stops, road conditions, or just pulling over to take photos. It’s not the kind of place where you rush from one spot to another, so plan for slower travel and enjoy the journey.
2. Rent a Car or Campervan
Public transport is limited outside the cities, so renting a car or campervan makes a huge difference. You can check out hidden beaches like the Totaranui Beach and Te Pukatea Beach or go hiking at Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
Just remember that New Zealanders drive on the left, and the roads can be steep and narrow, so take it slow. If you’re heading to the mountains, avoid tiny compact cars that might struggle with hills.
3. Pack for Every Kind of Weather
New Zealand’s weather changes fast, even in summer. One minute it’s sunny, the next you’re getting soaked by sideways rain.
We greatly recommend packing layers, including a jacket, even if you’re visiting in December or January. If you’re going to the South Island or any mountain areas, bring warm clothes, because it can get chilly, even in summer.
4. Buy a Local SIM Card
From what we’ve experienced, Wi-Fi isn’t always reliable, especially in small towns and national parks. So we greatly recommend you to buy a local SIM card..
Skinny and Spark are good options, and you can grab one as soon as you land at the airport. It’ll save you from getting lost when Google Maps is the only thing standing between you and the middle of nowhere.
5. New Zealand is Expensive, So Budget Accordingly
Food, gas, and activities aren’t cheap here, so be prepared for higher prices than you might expect. Supermarkets like Pak’nSave (our favorite) are great for stocking up on groceries if you want to save money.
If you’re renting a car, it’s best to fill up your tank before heading to remote areas since gas stations can be far apart and way more expensive in the middle of nowhere.
6. Book Accommodation and Activities in Advance
New Zealand gets packed with tourists from December to February, and last-minute bookings can be a nightmare. If you’re traveling during peak season, reserve your hotels, rental car, and activities early to avoid missing out or paying extra.
7. Sunscreen and Bug Spray Are Essentials
Honestly, the sun in New Zealand is way stronger than in other place. You better wear sunscreen even if it’s cloudy to avoid getting burned.
Sandflies (especially on the West Coast) can be brutal, so bring bug spray or prepare to be itchy for days. If you’re in an area with a lot of them, keeping moving helps because standing still makes you an easy target.
8. Tipping Isn’t Expected, But It’s Appreciated
Unlike in some countries, tipping isn’t a standard thing in New Zealand. You don’t need to leave extra at restaurants, but if you get great service, a small tip is always appreciated.
9. Avoid Driving at Night on Country Roads
Know that if you’re renting a car, driving at night can be risky in rural areas. There are fewer streetlights, and wildlife (like possums or even deer) can suddenly appear out of nowhere.
Plus, winding roads can be tricky in the dark, especially if you’re not used to driving on the left.
10. Not Every Beach is Safe for Swimming
New Zealand has some incredible beaches, but not all of them are safe to swim in. Some have strong rip currents, and lifeguards aren’t always around.
Always check for signs, and if you’re unsure, ask a local before jumping in.
11. Eating Out Can Be Expensive, So Plan Your Meals
Restaurants, especially in cities, can be pricey. So, if you’re traveling on a budget, it helps to mix eating out with supermarket meals.
Also, cafés often close early (many are shut by 3 PM), so don’t expect to grab a late lunch unless you plan ahead.
12. Motion Sickness Pills Might Come in Handy
If you get motion sickness, be prepared for winding roads and rough boat rides. Some scenic drives, like the road to Milford Sound, have a lot of twists and turns.
If you’re taking a ferry or boat trip, the water can get choppy, so pack motion sickness pills just in case.
13. The Best Hikes Aren’t Always the Most Popular Ones
New Zealand is full of amazing hikes. But the most famous ones, like Tongariro Crossing or Roy’s Peak, can get really crowded. Honestly, some of the lesser-known trails are just as stunning and way quieter.
We recommend the DOC (Department of Conservation) website for good alternatives if you want a more peaceful experience.
14. Don’t Try to See Everything in One Trip
New Zealand has so much to see that it’s impossible to do it all in one go. Instead of rushing from place to place, pick a few areas and enjoy them properly.
If you only have a short time, it’s better to stick to either the North or South Island instead of trying to cram both in.
15. New Zealanders Are Friendly, So Talk to Locals
People in New Zealand are relaxed and happy to help. If you need recommendations, just ask someone—whether it’s a café owner, a gas station worker, or someone at your hotel. Kiwis love to chat, and you might find some great local spots that aren’t in any travel guide.
