What is the currency used in New Zealand?

The New Zealand Dollar (NZD) is the official currency. Whichever way you wanna pay for stuff, it’s best to check the exchange rate before you travel to get yourself a good deal.

When is the best time to visit New Zealand?

Generally we’d say during summer, which is December through March, but you can go any time of year. We’ve got plenty of New Zealand trips so find one that works for you.

Do I need a visa to travel to New Zealand?

Yes, New Zealand requires visitors to have a visa ahead of travel. Check out our guide to visas for more deets.

What should I pack for a trip to New Zealand?

New Zealand’s climate varies depending on destination and season, so you’ll want to bring warm or cold weather clothes accordingly, as well as: <li data-leveltext="-" data-font="Calibri" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Calibri","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"-","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1"> Hiking boots: chances are you’ll be walking a fair amount. <li data-leveltext="-" data-font="Calibri" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Calibri","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"-","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1"> Solid backpack: outdoorsy and city trips alike call for a sturdy bag for your stuff. <li data-leveltext="-" data-font="Calibri" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Calibri","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"-","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1"> Adapter: an international adapter so you can charge your phone etc.

What is ATM access like in New Zealand?

New Zealand ATMs accept most major debit / credit cards (VISA, Maestro, Mastercard) for cash withdrawals. It’s also a good idea to carry a prepaid travel card with you to avoid fees and other issues.

Is it customary to tip in New Zealand?

Tipping is not expected, and besides you’ll usually see that the service charge has been automatically added to your bill. If you would like to tip though, it’ll be appreciated.

Is tap water safe to drink in New Zealand?

Generally yes, you can drink water from the tap in most places. If you’re in a remote spot, there may be a sign saying ‘not for drinking’. Bottled water is readily available either way.

New Zealand Tours & Trips 2024 / 2025

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Why visit New Zealand with Contiki

Year-round fun and activities

Skiing in winter, hiking in summer. From bungeeing in Queenstown to Lord of the Rings movie locations and traditional Māori performances, NZ is an all-seasons kinda place (and you can experience ‘em all with us).

Access the best accommodation

Whether it’s vibey hostels in Queenstown or cozy cabins with breathtaking views of the mountains, we sort all your accommodation, bookings and transport... so you can relax.

Travel with likeminded people

With our New Zealand trips for 18-35s, you’ll travel with awesome people from around the who share your love of travel and adventure. New friends? Most likely. Memories for life? Most certainly!

New Zealand tour reviews

Contiki was the best 2-and-a-bit weeks of my life. We had the most INCREDIBLE tour manager and coach driver who made the trip so memorable. We travelled almost the whole of New Zealand in just over 2 weeks, did every activity under the sun, met the most amazing friends who are now family, and I just cannot put into words how thankful I am for this experience.

- Nikita Jade, Kiwiana Panorama

Contiki was the perfect way to see New Zealand. So many great unique experiences. Nick and Mads couldn’t have been any better at their roles. Would 100% recommend.

- Flynn Coaker, The Big Tiki

This was a trip of a lifetime. If you’re thinking about doing it, DO IT! You won’t regret it. Everything was so well organised and the group were awesome - friends for life. I had an absolute blast. 10 out of 10 would do again!

- Sophie Walker, Rhythm and Alps

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Discover the Bay of Islands
Cruise among the 144 islands visiting the iconic Hole in the Rock potentially viewing marine mammals (dolphins, orcas or whales) along the way. Also learn about the restorative work of Project Island Song to return native bird life back to the Bay.
Get the adrenaline pumping with white water rafting in Rotorua
Another destination, another adrenaline-filled activity. This time Rotorua in the North Island will have you rafting through the Kaituna River waterfalls, native scenery and Māori History.
Explore wine country in Marlborough
Any visit to New Zealand must involve some wine tasting, and Marlborough (birthplace of Sauvignon Blanc) is the fine wine capital. So grab a glass and head to the endless vineyards…
Visit vintage shops and museums in Wellington
Wellington is renowned for its artsy feel. The NZ capital is full of museums, theatres, galleries and all types of arts organizations, plus some killer vintage markets. Time to get thrifty!
Take in the incredible Franz Josef Glacier from a kayak, helicopter or quad bike
Depending on the season, you can kayak, helicopter or quad bike your way around this New Zealand gem, enjoying hikes, hot pools and adventure sports as you go.
Visit Frodo and Bilbo on the Hobbiton Movie set tour
No trip to New Zealand would be complete without a visit to the Shire. Situated in the heart of New Zealand, you can quite literally step into Hobbiton - THE best Insta snaps guaranteed.