travel new zealand and australia

Make Your Next Trip Extraordinary

Middle East
Australia & Pacific
Caribbean & Mexico
South America
Central America
Cruises & Yachts
United States
About Wendy
Meet the Team
Code of Ethics
How We’re Funded
How to Support Us
How You Can Benefit
Smart Travel in 2024
Where to Go When
Family Travel
Holiday Travel
Airline Travel
Cruise Travel
Our Own Trips
Ask a Teenager
Travel Insurance
Travel Talk Videos
Covid Entry Rules
I Have a Destination
Tell Me Where to Go
Just Back: The Latest Reviews
Anniversary Trips
Asia WOW Trips
Christmas/New Year Trips
Christmas Day Abroad
Europe in Summer: Beat the Heat
Europe in Winter: Smart Trip Ideas
Europe for Winter School Breaks
Europe’s Secret Spots
Food-Focused Trips
Graduation Trips
Grandparents with Grandkids
Meeting Noteworthy Locals
South America WOW Trips
Spring Break Family Trips
Sporty Adventures
Thanksgiving Trips
Wildlife Encounters
WOW Moments
The WOW List
WOW List FAQs
Fees/Pricing Tips
WOW Moment Rules

Combining New Zealand and Australia: Insider’s Guide to the Best Trip

View of the Hauraki Gulf sea, taken from the Owhanake Coastal Track on Waiheke Island, New Zealand. Photo: Shutterstock

The insider advice on this page is from one of Wendy’s Trusted Travel Experts for New Zealand and Australia: Sarah Farag of Southern Crossings.

A native New Zealander based in Auckland, Sarah works her superb connections—from sheep farmers to helicopter pilots—to open doors for her travelers. She can set you up with a driving itinerary and rental car with stops for scenic hikes, wine tastings, and whatever else you might enjoy, but for those times when you’d prefer not to worry about driving on the left-hand side of the road and to be able to lose your eyes in the country’s countless glorious vistas and navigate to its most charming hidden corners without having to keep your eyes on the road, she has the savviest private drivers at her beck and call. Sarah has pull not just with the country’s top luxury lodges, but also with its guesthouses and even private homes with chefs. And, as a mom of two teenage sons, she is especially tuned in to what families enjoy most. For those wanting to see more of the region, Sarah can add beach stops in Fiji and other South Pacific islands, or coordinate with Sydney-based colleague and fellow WOW Lister Stuart Rigg to include time in Australia.

Tell us about the trip you want

The more detail, the better we can help you..

•What’s your biggest goal for this trip? What would make it most memorable?

Tell us your trip goals. IMPORTANT: Post-pandemic prices have soared in some countries, so check Wendy’s Pricing Tip: On mobile, scroll down to just above the photo. On desktop, look to the right. *

Getting there and around

Where are you flying from? Have you booked your airline travel? If so, tell us the dates and routing. If not, how long a flight are you comfortable with? Once you’re at your destination, how do you envision exploring it—e.g., rental car? public transit? private vehicle with English-speaking driver or guide/expediter with top connections and special access?

Tell us your flight dates/route and local transportation preferences (if you know these already). *

Staying there

Do you have a type of accommodations in mind (e.g., 4-star, 5-star, historic inn, state-of-the-art resort, family villa. private yacht, small expedition ship)? Is there a past hotel experience you’re seeking something similar to? If you have already booked accommodations, let us know.

Tell us about the places you’ve stayed in that you’ve liked, and what you would like now. *
Estimated Departure Date (Including the Year) *
Estimated Trip Length (in Days) *
Total Trip Budget (in U.S. dollars, excluding airfare): * How much do you want to spend for a WOW-caliber trip (incl. rooms, vehicles, excursions, meals, unique experiences, and the savviest drivers/guides/expediters to spare you headaches and wasted time)? Your answer will dictate the locations, trip dates, and experiences we will suggest. Please select (in USD): More than $50K $35,000 to $50,000 $25,000 to $35,000 $20,000 to $25,000 $15,000 to $20,000 $10,000 to $15,000 Other (this choice will open a new box you can write in)
Tell us about your travel budget *

Where should we send your personalized recommendation?

First Name *
Last Name *
If you’d like this trip to count toward a WOW Moment, use the same email address you’ve used to submit trip requests to WendyPerrin.com in the past. * Enter Email Confirm Email If you’d like this trip to count toward a WOW Moment , use the same email address you’ve used to submit trip requests to WendyPerrin.com in the past.
Name of travel specialist(s) you've used
Do you have a WOW Moment certificate you’d like to use? If so, please enter the first four digits of the certificate number. Qualifying rules apply for certificate redemption.
First 4 digits only
How did you hear about Wendy? * Please select Condé Nast Traveler Town & Country The Wall Street Journal The New York Times TripAdvisor Friends or colleagues A travel professional Google search Social media I’ve followed Wendy’s advice for years

If you do not receive an email confirmation of your trip request from [email protected] and you have checked your spam folder, let us know: [email protected] .

Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Combining countries

aerial view of the Great Barrier Reef from an airplane

The Great Barrier Reef, seen from above. Photo: Tourism Whitsundays

Always book your trans-Pacific flights into one country and out of the other, so you don’t have to backtrack. It usually makes sense to start with New Zealand: Since you make up time flying from there to Australia and arrive just two hours after you departed, you can still fit a lot into your travel day.

If you have two-and-a-half weeks, you can go wine tasting on New Zealand’s Waiheke Island, explore Maori culture and geothermal features in Rotorua, scratch your adventure itch in Queenstown, enjoy Sydney’s harborside delights, take in Uluru and learn about Aboriginal culture in Australia’s Red Centre, and end your trip on a pristine Queensland beach near the Great Barrier Reef.

Wine lovers will need three weeks to cover the major regions in each country: Waiheke Island, Hawke’s Bay, and Central Otago in New Zealand, and the Barossa Valley, Mornington Peninsula, and Hunter Valley in Australia. Cap it all off with a few nights to detox on an island in the Great Barrier Reef.

Wildlife lovers will need a bit more time to get to the most remote spots. The mountains and rainforests of New Zealand’s South Island hold the last remaining wild populations of most of the country’s bird species, not to mention the marine life hiding along its rocky coastline. Australia’s top nature destinations are spread across the country, from Kangaroo Island in the south to Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory and Western Australia’s Ningaloo Reef. Hone in on the creatures you most want to see, or expect to spend a good bit of time getting from place to place.

What to Do and See

hotel cottage lit from inside in the dusk of New Zealand

The ultra-luxe Mt Isthmus private villa is near New Zealand’s Lake Hawea, an underrated lake most travelers skip. Photo: The Lindis Group

Most underrated places New Zealand’s Lake Hawea isn’t as well known as Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown, or even neighboring Lake Wanaka. But it’s just as scenically impressive—if not more so—and you are likely to have the vast majority of it to yourself. It’s well worth stopping for a picnic when driving along the country’s west coast, but nowadays you can stay longer thanks to fabulous new options for an overnight, such as the ultra-luxe Mt Isthmus private villa or a cottage on Lake Hawea Station, a sheep and cattle farm focused on regenerative agriculture.

Australia’s Northern Territory can be tricky to work into a multi-country itinerary due to the time required to get there and get around (given the vast distances), but those who make it are treated to red-earth deserts, lush green watering holes, star-filled skies, uniquely Australian wildlife, and authentic Aboriginal experiences.

Most overrated place While Auckland is a thriving city in a beautiful location, New Zealand is all about getting out of the cities. Auckland is also a mini version of Sydney—so if that’s on your list, you can skip the former, or use it only as a base to explore the beautiful islands and beaches on its doorstep.

Hidden gems Both countries are known for their trekking routes, but they’re also a casual walker’s paradise, with countless shorter trails that you can easily enjoy on your own.

Blue Pools Track in New Zealand’s Mt. Aspiring National Park is an easy, three-kilometer track through beautiful beech forests and via an Instagram-worthy swing bridge suspended over the glacial Blue Pools and the Makarora River.

Sydney’s Bronte to Bondi coastal walk is one of the most scenic places to watch the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean and see Sydney locals going about their morning rituals (ocean swims, a before-work surf, beachside yoga, and flat white coffees in a trendy local café).

Don’t bother Hiring a campervan. They have become very overpriced, and now that many parts of both countries have banned “freedom camping”—the ability to park anywhere—they no longer offer the flexibility they once did. Campervans are also not particularly compatible with New Zealand’s winding roads, and many locals are quite opposed to the scenic obstructions when parked en masse in the height of summer.

starry night sky over the Lindis Pods Hotel in New Zealand

Book one of the glass pods at The Lindis in the Ahuriri Valley and enjoy the twinkling skies from your outdoor hot tub. Photo: The Lindis Group

Cheap thrill There are countless places to enjoy star-studded Southern-Hemisphere skies —from New Zealand’s Southern Alps (the South Island’s Aoraki Mackenzie region is home to an International Dark Sky Reserve) to Australia’s vast outback. Time your stargazing right and you may even catch the spectacular Southern Lights (Aurora Australis).

If “cheap” isn’t a requirement for your stargazing, book one of the glass pods at The Lindis in the Ahuriri Valley and enjoy the twinkling skies from your outdoor hot tub with a flute of New Zealand sparkling wine in hand.

Bragging rights Sarah listens carefully to each traveler’s interests and employs her wide network of contacts to tailor special experiences that you won’t find online. She’s chartered a helicopter and hired a Department of Conservation ranger to take her travelers to parts of New Zealand where few others have ever set foot—including a natural hot springs with a secret location.

In Australia, she’s arranged a birthday party on Shark Island in Sydney Harbour with an Aboriginal welcome and smoking ceremony, didgeridoo players, dinner prepared by one of the city’s most acclaimed chefs, and a private fireworks display.

Prime Picnic Spot Take the ten-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland across the harbor to historic Devonport . Collect picnic provisions from any of the quaint local cafés before walking up the nearby extinct volcano of Mt. Victoria for panoramic views of the Auckland skyline, the sailboat-filled Waitemata Harbour, and across to volcanic Rangitoto Island.

Across the Tasman, Sydney’s waterfront Botanic Gardens are hard to beat for the picture-perfect picnic spot: a beautiful leafy setting with the harbor, opera house, and bridge as your backdrop.

Where to Stay and Eat

Best bang-for-your-buck hotels Auckland’s Hotel Britomart is the first in the country to earn five green stars from New Zealand’s Green Building Council; it gets another five stars for its service and elegance. All of the rooms are the same extremely compact size—but all exceptionally tasteful and considered—so you’re best off booking one from the least expensive Laneway category.

In Sydney, if your time is short, it’s possible to combine Sydney Harbour views, native Australian wildlife right outside your room, and dinner at one of the city’s hottest new restaurants in a single hotel stay, provided you book a room at the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga , located within Sydney’s Taronga Zoo.

open-air living room in luxury hotel Qualia in the Whitsundays in Australia Great Barrier Reef area

Qualia’s pavilions look out to the Whitsunday Islands, in the Great Barrier Reef of Australia. Photo: qalia

Best-value splurge lodges As accommodations go, New Zealand is best known for its small luxury lodges; one of the most charming is Pihopa Retreat in Nelson. Situated on the outskirts of Nelson, this wonderful boutique property offers six spacious and beautifully appointed suites among 5.5 acres of gardens; continental breakfast is included and dinners can be arranged by the delightful New Zealand owners, who live in the main house with their family.

Ten miles off the coast of Queensland, Australia, Qualia’s 60 ultra-luxe pavilions (what they call their standalone private villas) are nestled into the northern tip of Hamilton Island and surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef. You can fill your days here with snorkeling, scuba diving, flightseeing by helicopter or seaplane, spa treatments, or even a jaunt by private yacht to a secluded beach where you’ll be dropped off with Champagne and a gourmet picnic.

Restaurants the locals love Amisfield is a restaurant and winery on the outskirts of Queenstown, near Lake Hayes. Despite receiving a lot of press after the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited in 2014, the bistro’s team have kept their heads down and continue to serve delicious dishes with a lovely local flair—nothing too fancy or fussy, but reliably tasty. The place is always full of locals, which tells you something about its consistency of service and culinary excellence. If you have time for a long and lazy lunch, ask for the “Trust the Chef” option: Simply let them know of any dietary requirements, then sit back, relax, and they’ll bring a selection of dishes to your table.

Fratelli Paradiso is a lively neighborhood trattoria in Sydney’s trendy Potts Point, and a favorite with both locals and in-the-know visiting celebrities; Elton John never fails to enjoy a casual meal here when in town. Friendly waiters translate the blackboard menus as the chefs prepare their signature dishes—Calamari Sant’Andrea and delicious lasagnes—best enjoyed with a glass of wine from the extensive list of Italian and Australian labels. As locals would expect, it’s open seven days a week for all-day dining.

Dish to try Spring is whitebait season in New Zealand, when these tiny freshwater fish become one of the country’s most sought-after delicacies. They aren’t bought in the supermarket; locals have a “whitebait guy” they buy from. The fish are most often cooked with eggs to create omelet-style whitebait fritters, which can be found everywhere from New Zealand’s top restaurants to small roadside takeaway stalls. Four of the six whitebait species are endangered, so ask if what’s being served has been sourced sustainably.

aerial view of boat in blue waters of Dusky Sound New Zealand

Take a private boat into Dusky Sound, where your pilot will dive into the icy-cold waters for fresh crayfish to barbecue. Photo: Southern Crossings

Meals worth the splurge On New Zealand’s South Island, in a region inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Sarah can arrange for the ultimate indulgence in both fresh seafood and untouched scenery : A private helicopter takes you on a scenic flight—over rainforests, mountains, glaciers, and fjords—to a custom-built boat in Dusky Sound, one of Fiordland National Park’s most remote inlets. Here you can fish or hike the shoreline where explorer Captain Cook first came ashore in 1773, and where today dolphins, fur seals, and other wildlife abound. For lunch, your pilot will actually dive into the icy-cold waters, harvest a couple of crayfish from the sea floor, and barbecue them to be served with gourmet sides and New Zealand wine and beer.

In Australia’s dining capital of Melbourne, Attica serves innovative degustation menus that showcase local Australian produce such as salted red kangaroo and King George whiting in paperbark, as well as ingredients foraged by head chef Ben Shewry himself.

How to spend a lazy Sunday Farmers markets’ have made a big comeback in recent years and are held in most cities and towns across New Zealand on Sunday mornings. Head down for a delicious brunch freshly harvested by the farmers themselves, and ask the locals which coffee cart is the best. Don’t miss the markets in the waterside precincts of Wynyard Quarter (Auckland), Queens Wharf (Wellington), The Terrace (Christchurch), or Steamer Wharf (Queenstown). In Australia, there is Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market, the very tasty South Melbourne Market, and Hobart’s lively Farm Gate market.

As for your Sunday afternoon, if you’re in Auckland, catch the ferry across the Waitemata Harbour to Waiheke Island. Known affectionately as the Island of Wine and just 40 minutes from downtown, Waiheke is where locals go for a relaxed vibe, long lunches looking back across to the city, strolls past coastal sculpture, and beach walks.

For a lazy Sunday afternoon in Sydney, catch the ferry across the harbor to Manly , where you can enjoy a coastal stroll, a swim in the surf, and a sundowner with the locals by the water’s edge on Manly Wharf.

Contact Sarah

Not sure if this is the right person for you? Ask Wendy

Get a Personalized Trip Recommendation

For a travel solution tailored to your trip goals and preferences, click this green box.

Best Times to Go

September through May is the best time to combine New Zealand and Australia in a single trip. March and April bring T-shirt days and duvet nights, they’re less crowded than the peak Southern-Hemisphere summer months, and rates are a bit lower.

In October and November the gardens are lush, the countryside is vibrantly green in New Zealand’s North Island and still snow-capped in the South Island, and you get lovely spring weather in Australia.

Worst Times to Go

June, July, and August can get chilly in the region’s southern reaches, and many of New Zealand’s iconic hiking trails close over this period. That said, early August is ideal for heli-skiing and notching untracked runs on private ski fields after the local schools have returned from winter break; you can even combine a New Zealand alpine adventure with Australia’s Great Barrier Reef or a tropical stopover in Fiji.

Biggest Rookie Mistake

Trying to combine Australia and New Zealand in less than two weeks: Most of your time will be spent traveling rather than experiencing. If you can only get away for two weeks, don’t try to cover multiple regions in each country; instead, look at combining Sydney with New Zealand, for example, or Australia with Queenstown.

Can't-Miss Photo Ops

The views are grand at Craggy Range Winery in Hawke’s Bay (pictured), where you can look out over the vines planted at the foot of Te Mata’s dramatic jagged peak; for beautiful light and vines bursting with grapes, get your shot in the late afternoon during the Southern-Hemisphere spring or summer.

The constantly changing hues of Uluru, or Ayers Rock, make it one of Australia’s most iconic photo-ops. Early morning and late afternoon best showcase the colors of this unique monolith—itself a sacred site of the local indigenous people—and the surrounding landscape.

The Souvenirs

Manuka honey, which New Zealand bees produce from the nectar of the native manuka plant. Maori traditionally used manuka for its healing properties, and some people use the honey today for medicinal purposes. In Australia, you can find honey made from eucalyptus, which is prized for is flavor, color, and high quality.

Pounamu, or greenstone, refers to several types of stone found in southern New Zealand that have long been used in carvings done by Maori artists. It is considered bad luck to buy pounamu for yourself, but it makes a wonderfully meaningful gift.

Must-have App

The MetService weather app for New Zealand is handy, with such a changeable climate and so many activities being weather-dependent (although Sarah monitors weather closely for her travelers).

Airport Intel

Auckland International Airport is not physically attached to Auckland Domestic Airport, which makes connecting flights a bit of a headache. While most airlines allow you to book flights with as little as one hour between them, this is almost impossible to make! Two hours is a realistic minimum connection time. For the smoothest logistics, Sarah can arrange for someone to meet you at the plane and for a private car to take you between terminals.

If your U.S.-Australia flights have you changing planes in Auckland, you’ll need to apply for an NZeTa (an Electronic Travel Authority) before you fly.

Do not bring honey or any fresh produce into New Zealand. The country’s unique ecosystem is fiercely protected by its border controllers, who will readily fine anyone bringing in such products.

Tipping Tip

Tipping is not expected in New Zealand or Australia, and is entirely discretionary as an appreciation of good service. All employees are paid full wages and therefore do not depend on gratuities for their income. However, a tip in the vicinity of 10% in recognition of excellent service has become the custom in cafés and restaurants.

Don’t Forget to Pack

Sunglasses and a hat. The sun is strong and the air particularly clear, so these two items are essential year-round.

Think in layers. The weather can change from sunny and hot to cool in a matter of hours, whether you are traveling in summer or winter.

Deep and rich micro-experiences...

Not only memorable, but seamless..., afternoon boating on lake taupō....

Our Latest Newsletters

Be a Smarter Traveler

We may receive a referral fee from trip planners for trips designed for and purchased by travelers referred through us.

Insider’s Guides to 177 Destinations
Travel Tips
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy

Where To Go When

TTC family of brands

My Trafalgar

Destinations

Get Inspired

866 513 1995

Australia and New Zealand

See All Australia & New Zealand Tours

See More Australia & New Zealand Trips

5 million happy guests and counting

Kangaroo on a beach in Esperance, Australia

Largest Country

Smallest Country

New Zealand

"Australia & New Zealand are two of the world's most beloved destinations. I love showing our guests all the iconic sights from the red desert to the dreamy beaches."

Tour Director

Admire the Sydney Opera House

We’ll take you on a guided tour around the sails of the Sydney Opera House, one of the most iconic sights in Australia. Enjoy an evening performance inside the grand Concert Hall, or board a helicopter for a panoramic view of the Opera House, along with other Sydney stars like the Harbour Bridge and Manly Cove.

Visit the Franz Josef Glacier

See the icy fingers of the Franz Josef Glacier with a guided ice walk or a thrilling scenic flight. When you take to the skies on our New Zealand trips, you’ll get a breathtaking view of the 12 kilometer glacier, along with Mount Cook and the soaring Southern Alps of the World Heritage Site park.

Cruise to the Great Barrier Reef

Board a high-speed catamaran and cruise the Coral Sea to the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest living structure and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. This remarkable coral reef can be seen from outer space, and we’ll sink beneath the waters to snorkel with a dazzling array of marine life.

Get lost in the gorgeous streets of Wellington

When you travel New Zealand with Trafalgar, we’ll take you along the Kapiti Coast to Wellington, New Zealand’s beautiful capital city. You’ll enjoy an exclusive guided tour of Te Papa Museum where you’ll learn about Maori culture, then spend time exploring Welly’s gems, like the Parliament buildings or the city’s coffee culture.

Enjoy a traditional Australian barbecue with a view on Uluru

Experience one of the world’s most unique dining experiences, with Uluru as your striking backdrop. You’ll enjoy a classic barbecue of steaks, lamb sausages and garlic prawns, while gazing at the ancient monolith as it’s dusty red walls change colors during sunset. As the sun disappears, turn your eyes to the skies for spectacular stargazing.

Our top 5 things to do in Australia & New Zealand

Our tours of Australia and New Zealand will reveal the wonders of Down Under, from the sunny Great Barrier Reef in Australia, to the icy Franz Josef Glacier in New Zealand.

The International Antarctic Centre

Located in Christchurch, the International Antarctic Centre is one of the best attractions in New Zealand. There are scores of interactive experiences to show you what life is like in Antarctica, including a thrilling all-terrain vehicle tour and a wild Antarctic storm room. Immerse yourself in the 4D theater and meet the cheeky penguins.

Australian National Maritime Museum

Set in Sydney’s vibrant Darling Harbour, the Australian National Maritime Museum shares the country’s stories of the sea. You can explore three open vessels including a ship and a submarine, and various exhibitions that document the charting of Australia’s coastline and the sacred meaning of the sea to the Aboriginal Australians.

Museum of Sydney

The Museum of Sydney showcases the colonial and contemporary history of Sydney, though pictures, objects and digital media exhibitions. It was built on the ruins of Australia's first Government House dating back to 1788, and today houses a large display of convict artefacts recovered from over 25 archaeological digs.

Best museums in Australia & New Zealand

Our trips to Australia and New Zealand showcase the region’s top museums, from the interactive Antarctic Centre in New Zealand, to the open ships of the Australian National Maritime Museum.

Pavlova is made from chewy meringue shell with a soft marshmallow center, and topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits like strawberries, kiwifruit and passionfruit. There’s a rivalry between Australia and New Zealand over the true national origins of the dish, but both countries agree it’s a truly delicious dessert.

Seafood is a national specialty throughout New Zealand, but the best place to enjoy a meal of crayfish is Kaikoura, a seaside town on the South Island. Here, you’ll enjoy the freshest catch of the day, and the crayfish is boiled and served with a tangy dipping sauce.

Found in restaurants all over Australia, the parmigiana is one of the most beloved dishes in the country. It’s made from a breaded chicken breast slathered in tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, served with french fries and salad. It originated in Italy and was brought to Australia with a wave of Italian migrants.

Best food in Australia & New Zealand

Our tours of New Zealand and Australia will reveal their most beloved dishes, from fresh crayfish and chicken parmigiana, to the sweet meringue of pavlova.

What to pack for Australia & New Zealand

All climate clothing

The climates in the region range from the sweltering desert to the snowy alps, so you’ll need to pack some versatile layers to be prepared for all seasons.

Australia is the world’s largest island, while New Zealand is famed for its scenic roads. Bring some headphones to accompany your long journeys through the panoramic landscapes.

Versatile shoes

You’ll need a range of shoes for your journey, from flip-flops for the beaches, to hiking boots for the mountains, and even a formal pair for a night at the Sydney Opera House.

You’ll see some of the world’s most extraordinary sites in Australia and New Zealand, and you’ll need a camera to capture all the action.

Reef-safe sunscreen

Australia and New Zealand are known for their harsh sun, and you’ll need to bring a strong, reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin on your Pacific Island holiday.

Other worldwide regions we visit

Africa the Middle East

North and Central America

South America

Get your free brochure

Find your next escape with the world's leading travel brand

Request A Brochure

Award winning tours

Every year, we're proud to win some of the most prestigious travel accolades around the world - from the Travel Globes to the Agent's Choice Awards

Search Our Tours

Help & Info

WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Unedited Reviews

Our Destination Management Companies

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Updates

Media & Press Room

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Travel Planning

Get Your Free Brochure

Travel Insurance

Booking Conditions

Trip Deposit Level

Recommendations

Trafalgar is a proud member of The Travel Corporation family of companies.

#SimplyTrafalgar

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

South Africa

Terms and Conditions

Cookie Policy

Multiple-Destination Vacations

Australia and new zealand vacation packages, & multiple-destination vacations.

Australia and New Zealand

Australia and New Zealand vacation packages are our specialty! Both countries are very different and make the perfect travel combination.

In Australia, you’ll find unique wildlife, cosmopolitan cities like Sydney and Melbourne, and gorgeous beaches. New Zealand offers small-town charm amidst a backdrop of stunning lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped mountains. Both countries offer incredible hospitality, fascinating ancient cultures, world-class food and wine, and bucket list golf courses.

Our Australia and New Zealand travel agents have been handcrafting trips to this special corner of the world for more than 20 years. Contact us now to start planning your trip , or explore our wide selection of Australia and New Zealand vacation packages below for some inspiration!

Sample Vacations

Australia New Zealand Golf: Great Golf Courses

This non-stop golf adventure brings you to some of the top courses in Australia and New Zealand, including Barnbougle, Kauri Cliffs, and Cape Kidnappers. Gorgeous scenery, unique wildlife tours, and magnificent wineries make for a truly spectacular golf getaway.

Australia and New Zealand Highlights

Explore street art, cafe culture, and wine tasting in trendy Melbourne
Enjoy Sydney highlights, including a gourmet harbor cruise
Discover New Zealand’s iconic scenery in Queenstown and Milford Sound

Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji: Ultimate South Pacific Vacation

Travel to Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji with the ultimate South Pacific vacation package.

South Pacific Vacation Packages: Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti

South Pacific Vacation Packages: Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti This lucky honeymoon couple from Canada had a full month for their Australia, New Zealand and Tahiti journey. So we selected one of our favorite South Pacific Vacation Packages. We sent them on an epic month-long journey guiding them through the highlights of the South Pacific experiencing Read More…

Custom-Built Australia and New Zealand Fishing Vacation

Plan your custom fishing vacation in Australia and New Zealand! Discover one-of-a-kind fishing adventures, from catching barramundi in the outback to fly fishing for trout in New Zealand’s remote glacial streams.

Australia New Zealand Anniversary Trip: Luxury and Adventure

Experience luxury and adventure in some of Australia and New Zealand’s most unique, unspoiled landscapes. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, kayak with fur seals, explore the Australian rainforest, and heli over the stunning Milford Sound.

Australia and New Zealand Culinary Package

Taste your way through Australia and New Zealand on this culinary tour. Visit Tasmania, Melbourne, and Sydney, then visit the New Zealand Wine Trail.

Change location

Call us tomorrow from 10am 01993 838 925 01993 838 800 or
REQUEST A QUOTE

Combining Australia and New Zealand: questions to ask yourself

By Australia and New Zealand specialist James

You could go from the Red Centre’s desert panoramas to tropical Queensland, and follow it all up with the glaciers, sea cliffs and snowy mountain ranges of South Island. Or, embark on a wildlife-themed trip, going from the underwater wonderlands of the Ningaloo or Great Barrier reefs to New Zealand’s Kaikoura, one of the world’s best whale-watching destinations. Combining Australia and New Zealand in the same trip lets you experience wildly contrasting topographies and ecosystems within the space of a few weeks. And, thanks to constantly improving flight connections, it’s easier than ever to travel between the two.

It’s natural you might want to visit Australia and New Zealand in one go: they’re so close, and you’re already taking a long plane journey to get to either place. There are lots of ways to split your time between the two countries — this Australia and New Zealand Uncovered trip outline is just a starting point.

But, for a really fulfilling trip, there are a few things you’ll need to mull over.

How much time do I have?

Allow a minimum of three weeks. Any less than that, and I encourage you to focus on only one country.

Five weeks would give you time to see three different areas of Australia without feeling rushed — Sydney, Uluru/Ayers Rock and the Great Barrier Reef is a popular grouping. Then, you could head over to New Zealand for a ten-day road trip through the South Island’s standout scenery.

When do I want to go?

This question determines where exactly you’ll go, so it needs to be considered upfront. It’s really about coordinating the optimum times to go to different areas of Australia with the best time to travel to New Zealand .

I speak to many people who are set on cramming their visit into the Austral summer (December to March), to make the most of the Southern Hemisphere’s warmer weather. This works well for New Zealand, but there are a few caveats for Australia.

Anywhere in Australia south of Brisbane enjoys warm weather and blue skies between December and March. But, this same period coincides with cyclone season in Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef. Visiting over the Christmas period can also rule out Kakadu National Park and the Northern Territory , which gets heavy rainfall at this time of year.

So, if you’re planning to travel between December and March, think about the breadth of what Australia has to offer. The Outback isn’t limited to Australia’s Top End. As long as you’re prepared for the baking sun, you can also experience the Outback in South Australia’s Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park — a land of clefted sandstone foothills, lonely homesteads, behemoth rock formations and roaming emus.

You can find out more about ‘the Flinders’ (as it’s known) in our guide to South Australia’s landscapes and wildlife . And, as an escape from the Outback’s heat, you could always follow up the Flinders with a few cool glasses of wine in the vineyards of the Clare or Barossa valleys.

If you’re not wedded to a December–March travel period, consider timing your trip for October and November instead. You could catch the tail end of the fine weather in Queensland in October, before moving on to a springtime Sydney. By the time you reach New Zealand in late October to early November, the days will be getting longer and becoming increasingly warmer.

If you want to see Australia’s Top End at its finest, go between May and September, but bear in mind that you’ll have less daylight in New Zealand at this time of year.

How many flights am I prepared to take?

You have lots of options for flying between and Australia and New Zealand. Flight times are relatively short (it’s three hours from Sydney to Auckland , the same amount of time it takes to fly from Sydney to Uluru).

You’re not restricted to the major gateway cities of Auckland, Sydney, Queenstown and Melbourne , either. You could, say, fly from Christchurch to Perth , combining the South Island’s scenic big hitters with time on the beaches and in the winelands of Western Australia’s Margaret River Region.

When combining Australia and New Zealand, I always try to cut down on empty transit time. This can even make you reconsider how much you want to fit in to your trip: how many days do you really want to spend hanging around airports?

You can also break up your flying. You might fly into Sydney, then swing across to Queenstown to start exploring the South Island, before flying to Melbourne to drive the Great Ocean Road . There’s nothing to say you can’t go to Australia twice.

Nor do you have to use Sydney as your starting point. Fly direct to Cairns from Singapore or Hong Kong. Start with the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, then hop down to Uluru/Ayers Rock, and culminate your Australia leg in Sydney before flying on to New Zealand.

How can I narrow down where I want to go?

This is a tough one — you have to accept you won’t see everything. Start by thinking about each country in isolation and having an honest conversation with yourself about what you really want to see in each.

As I touched on earlier, the beauty of Australia and New Zealand is that despite their proximity, they’re scenically very distinct. In only a matter of weeks, you can go from shaking the dust off your boots in the Outback to strapping on crampons and walking on a glacier.

If you really don’t know where to start with New Zealand, opt for a classic South Island road trip . This is where you’ll find not only alpine panoramas, winelands and fjords, but also year-round whales, dusky dolphins, fur seals and more in Kaikoura .

With Australia, think about its varying ecosystems and which ones particularly appeal to you. The great knuckle-like, rust-red monolith of Uluru exerts a magnetic pull on some; others are less enthralled. The Great Barrier Reef often sits near the top of many Australia wish lists, but, if you’ve previously visited extensive coral reefs in other parts of the world, you might want to try something new.

When it comes to the cities, I usually argue the case for including Sydney, Melbourne and New Zealand’s capital Wellington . But, in my book, you can skip over Auckland, New Zealand’s biggest city: it shares many of the same characteristics of Sydney (a glittering marina and shiny high-rises). It’s also possible to fly directly from Sydney to Wellington.

However, if you’re an avid birdwatcher, Auckland might come higher up your list. You might, say, be intrigued by the possibility of visiting one of the predator-free island reserves off Auckland’s coast.

If viewing wildlife is important for you, you might wish to spend longer in Australia — New Zealand doesn’t have the standout species nor the zoological variety of Australia.

However, it’s a rewarding destination if you’re especially drawn to marine life or birdlife, as our guide to observing New Zealand’s wildlife explains. There are several places to see the reclusive kiwi, for example, from a hatchery in Rotorua to the untamed Stewart Island in New Zealand’s far south.

Australia also has much to offer beyond its koalas, kangaroos, and other headline species: the Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia is brimming with sea turtles, reef sharks, and in some places, the rare dugong. And, Kangaroo Island in South Australia is worth the extra journey time. Nicknamed the Australian Galapagos, its wildlife (including echidnas, wallabies and koalas) thrives in the island’s unspoiled environment and the guides here are second to none.

You might also think about not duplicating experiences. If you plan to drive the Great Ocean Road, stopping off at its coves and beaches, perhaps you can afford to forget the beaches of New Zealand’s Coromandel Peninsula.

Instead, think about what can’t be replicated by each country. I’m a fan of the Grampians , a waterfall-sluiced mountain range in Victoria, but they pale into comparison to New Zealand’s Southern Alps or the North Island’s volcanoes.

In short, it’s about combining the best of both places, according to your personal interests.

Finally, try not to do too much. It’s tempting to squeeze as much as you can into a combined Australia and New Zealand trip, but you’ll have a better experience if you’re not just careering around both countries, spending a night here and a night there.

If witnessing the geothermal showground of Rotorua is a priority for you, don’t just limit your experience to one geothermal park. Stay for three days and mountain bike among the spurting fumaroles of Whakarewarewa Forest Park, one of the best places to go cycling in New Zealand . Or, explore the Inferno Crater Lake of the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, which is ringed with a champagne shade of silica terracing.

Similarly, if you’re visiting Uluru, I urge you to escape the crowds thronging Ayers Rock Resort and spend a day visiting Mount Conner, an immense flat-topped monolith set on a private cattle station. It’s the Outback as it was meant to be seen — without another soul in sight. You can find out more about the lure of Mount Conner in our blog about experiences you might not know existed .

Start planning your trip to Australia and New Zealand

Australia & New Zealand uncovered

23 days from £9,425pp

Sydney to Auckland voyage with Silversea Cruises

24 days from £13,505pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Plan your trip

Tell us about your plans and one of our specialists will plan a unique trip for you...

Request our brochure, The World Your Way

Order your digital copy via email.

Help Center
1-866-921-7925

Start Searching

Packages
Hotels
Cruises
Rental Cars

* Indicates required fields

Rental Period:

pickUpDate - dropOffDate

Pick-Up: pickUpTime - Drop-Off: dropOffTime

Pick-Up Location:

pickUpAddress

pickUpAgencyName

pickUpAgencyAddress

Drop-Off Location:

Same as Pick-Up Location

dropOffAddress

dropOffAgencyName

dropOffAgencyAddress

Coupon Override

Please call.

For drivers under the age of 25, additional fees and/or restrictions may apply.

For information and assistance in completing your reservation, please call:

We're unable to find your location.

Vacation Packages
Hotel + Flight
Hotel + Flight + Car
Hotel + Car
Hotel Only

Alaska Cruise Tours:

A cruise tour is a voyage and land tour combination, with the land tour occurring before or after the voyage. Unless otherwise noted, optional services such as airfare, airport transfers, shore excursions, land tour excursions, etc. are not included and are available for an additional cost.

Cruises to Australia and New Zealand

From jaw-dropping natural wonders to colorful local traditions, cruising to the land down under will thrill your senses..

Australia entices with every imaginable landscape, from its rugged Outback and fascinating Aboriginal culture, to its world-famous Great Barrier Reef and lively cosmopolitan cities. In New Zealand, discover ancient Maori culture, working sheep farms, renowned wineries, gracious English heritage and astounding natural attractions that lure visitors from around the globe.

Featured Deals

Melbourne cup cruise.

Carnival Cruise Line | Carnival Splendor™ Digital Costco Shop Card, Round-Trip Sydney

6 Nights from $583*

Airlie Beach from Brisbane Cruise

Carnival Cruise Line | Carnival Luminosa® Digital Costco Shop Card, Round-Trip Brisbane

4 Nights from $305*

Australia Cruise

Celebrity Cruises | Celebrity Solstice® Digital Costco Shop Card, Sydney to Singapore

15 Nights from $1,911*

Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Celebrity Cruises | Celebrity Edge® Digital Costco Shop Card, Round-Trip Sydney

11 Nights from $1,262*

Queensland Voyage

Cunard® | Queen Elizabeth® Digital Costco Shop Card, Round-Trip Sydney

10 Nights from $1,669*

New Zealand Voyage

14 Nights from $749*

Australia & New Zealand Cruise

Holland America Line | Noordam® Digital Costco Shop Card, Sydney to Auckland

14 Nights from $2,059*

New Zealand Discovery Cruise

Holland America Line | Noordam® Digital Costco Shop Card, Round-Trip Sydney Cruise

14 Nights from $1,759*

New Zealand Holiday Cruise

Princess Cruises | Discovery Princess® Digital Costco Shop Card, Round-Trip Sydney

14 Nights from $1,768*

The Sounds of New Zealand

Regent Seven Seas | Seven Seas Explorer® Digital Costco Shop Card, Auckland to Sydney

14 Nights from $12,799*

Royal Caribbean | Ovation of the Seas® Digital Costco Shop Card, Round-Trip Sydney

10 Nights from $2,699*

*Price shown is per person based on double occupancy and is valid for select stateroom categories only. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for details.

Explore More Travel

Exotic voyages.

Set Sail to Exciting Destinations

Why Just Dream It? Cruise It!

Experience the Disney Difference

Immerse Yourself in the Magic

Member Value in Every Disney Vacation

Save on Rental Cars

Exclusive Costco Member Pricing

No Cancellation Fees

We are processing your payment.

Do not refresh your browser or exit this page.

Search Smartraveller

New Zealand

Latest update.

Exercise normal safety precautions in New Zealand.

New Zealand (PDF 764.52 KB)

Pacific (PDF 1.22 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 111 or contact the nearest police station.

Call 105 or go online for Police non-emergencies.

Advice levels

Crime rates are similar to those in Australia. Thieves often target vehicles. Don't leave valuables in your car or campervan.
Earthquakes are a constant risk. Large, damaging quakes can happen at any time. Know what to do during and after an earthquake.
All of New Zealand's coastline is at risk of a tsunami. Know the tsunami warning signs and move to high ground immediately. Don't wait for official alerts.
New Zealand has several active volcanoes. Volcanic alert levels may rise quickly. You may be ordered to evacuate at short notice. Stay informed and follow the advice of local authorities.
Weather conditions can change quickly. Severe weather could leave you stranded or injured, especially in an isolated area. If you're climbing, hiking or in a remote area, register your trip with the Department of Conservation. Carry a personal locator beacon.

Full travel advice: Safety

Make sure your vaccinations are up to date before you travel.

Medical facilities and services are of a similar standard to those in Australia.

New Zealand and Australia have a reciprocal healthcare agreement. This lets Australians access public medical facilities and care. However, there are some things it doesn't cover. Ensure you get comprehensive travel insurance.

Full travel advice: Health

Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties may include fines and prison sentences, including for small amounts.
Carry approved identification if you want to purchase alcohol or enter licensed premises. Approved ID includes your passport, a New Zealand driver's licence, an existing Hospitality NZ 18+ Card, or a Kiwi Access Card. An Australian driver's licence is not an approved form of ID under the NZ Sale and Supply of Alcohol Regulations.

Full travel advice: Local laws

You must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration Form (NZTD) before passport control on arrival. You need to answer questions about your trip and what you’re bringing into the country. You can complete it online or by using the NZTD app, there's no cost.

Most Australian citizens don't need a visa to enter unless you have a criminal record or if you've been deported from any country. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You can contact the nearest New Zealand embassy or consulate for the latest details.
Before you travel, check Immigration New Zealand's website for current entry restrictions and requirements.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

The Consular Services Charter details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission’s social media accounts

For consular help, contact the Australian High Commission in Wellington , or the Australian Consulate-General in Auckland.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Petty crime.

Crime rates in New Zealand are similar to those in Australia.

Thieves often target valuables left in cars and campervans.

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards.

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and protests.

Protests are generally peaceful. However, public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Follow the advice of local authorities.

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

New Zealand police
New Zealand Security Intelligence Service

Climate and natural disasters

New Zealand experiences natural disasters and severe weather , including:

earthquakes
volcanic activity
flash flooding

To protect yourself in a natural disaster:

secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
follow the advice of local authorities
keep in contact with friends and family

Monitor local media and other sources, including:

Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management
Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
GetReady website (New Zealand government)

Earthquakes

Earthquakes are a constant risk in New Zealand.

Most quakes are too small or deep in the earth to feel. However, about 150 to 200 quakes are big enough to feel each year.

Large, damaging earthquakes have occurred and could happen again at any time. Aftershocks can continue for days or weeks.

When an earthquake happens, you're advised to drop, cover and hold. If an earthquake is long or strong, and you're near the coast or large body of water, you should go to higher ground immediately.

If you're indoors during an earthquake:

move no more than a few steps to a heavy, solid object you can get underneath, and hold onto it
don't try to run outside
stay indoors until the shaking stops
stay away from windows, chimneys, and shelves with heavy objects

If you're in bed:

hold onto the bed and stay where you are
protect your head and body with a pillow and blankets

If you're outdoors:

move to the nearest clear spot
keep away from buildings, trees, and power lines
drop to the ground

If you're in a car:

drive to a clear place away from buildings, trees, and power lines
stay in the car with your seatbelt on until the shaking stops

If you're in a lift:

stop at the nearest floor and get out

After the earthquake finishes:

be aware of possible tsunami risks (see below)
prepare for travel delays
reconfirm your travel arrangements
check your accommodation with travel agents and tour operators

Because of the region's earthquake risk, tsunamis could happen.

All of New Zealand's coastline is at risk of a tsunami. New Zealand is a member of the Pacific Tsunami Warning System.

The National Emergency Management Agency manages the National Tsunami Advisory and Warning Plan and issues tsunami alerts on its website. These are also broadcast by New Zealand media.

A tsunami could arrive within minutes. There may not be time for an official warning.

Move immediately to high ground, or as far inland as possible, if you're near the coast and you:

feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings.

Walk or bike if possible because of potential road congestion.

New Zealand's active volcanoes can erupt at any time. Volcanic alert levels may rise quickly. You may be ordered to evacuate at short notice.

If there's volcanic activity:

follow the instructions and advice of local authorities
follow evacuation orders
take official warnings seriously

If you plan to visit active volcanoes or surrounding areas:

monitor the GeoNet website
get local advice first

Visit GeoNet for information about volcanic activity at:

Mt Tongariro
White Island
other active volcanic sites

Severe weather

Weather conditions can change quickly. Severe weather can occur.

Creeks and rivers can experience flash flooding after heavy rains.

Rapid weather changes could leave you stranded or injured, particularly if you're in a remote area.

Monitor weather conditions, forecasts and warnings from Metservice .

Take extra care if you're climbing, hiking or in a remote area.

Parts of New Zealand experience bushfires in hot, dry conditions.

If there's a bushfire, follow local advice.

Adventure activities

Most people enjoy adventure activities safely in New Zealand. However, these activities carry risks.

Several serious accidents involving Australians and other travellers have occurred. People have died.

Some operators have been found to be negligent.

Safety standards can differ both between individual operators, and from standards in Australia.

If you plan to do an adventure activity:

be aware of the risks of individual or group activities
check the safety standards of operators
check to see if operators meet industry standards

Safety risks can increase in severe weather and remote areas.

Before you do any adventure activities :

make sure your travel insurance covers your planned activities
understand what your travel and other insurance doesn't cover
only book with operators with appropriate safety equipment and practices
always use the safety equipment, even if others don't

If you're trekking or travelling in a remote area:

get updates on local weather from the Department of Conservation
check conditions with the local DOC visitor centre
register your trip with a DOC visitor centre
tell your family and friends your plans
carry a personal locator beacon
avoid creeks and rivers after heavy rains

You can hire personal locator beacons throughout New Zealand.

When you return from a hike, check in with:

the DOC visitor centre
your family and friends
anyone else who knew your plans
AdventureSmart
Mountain Safety Council

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy must cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

what activities and care your policy covers
that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away (including if stopovers on the way to your destination are covered)

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

have a basic health check-up
ask if your travel plans may affect your health
plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you need counselling services in New Zealand, contact:

Lifeline – 0800 543 354 or free text HELP (4357)
Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
Healthline – 0800 611 116
Samaritans – 0800 726 666
General health advice
Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to take medication, check if it's legal in New Zealand. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

what the medication is
your required dosage
that it's for personal use
New Zealand Customs Service
Medicare Australia

Health risks

Health risks are broadly similar to those in Australia.

Medical care

Medical facilities, reciprocal health care.

New Zealand and Australia have a reciprocal health care agreement . This lets Australians access public medical facilities and care.

It doesn't:

include ongoing treatment of existing health conditions
cover extra accommodation costs or flights for family members
cover flights to Australia
replace the need for travel insurance.

To access services under the agreement:

show your current Australian passport or evidence of permanent residency
show your valid Medicare card.
New Zealand Ministry of Health
Reciprocal health care agreement (Services Australia)

Accident Compensation Corporation

If you're injured in an accident, the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) covers the costs of hospital treatment.

The cover provided by ACC:

offers injury cover on a 'no-fault' basis — this means accident victims don’t have a legal right to sue a third party
ends once you've left New Zealand
doesn't replace your need for travel insurance .

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for possessing and using drugs may include fines and prison sentences.

Carrying or using drugs

Alcohol laws

You'll need photo ID to buy alcohol or enter licensed premises.

You can't use your Australian driver's licence.

Approved IDs include:

current passport
current New Zealand driver's licence
Kiwi Access Card
Approved ID

Quarantine regulations

New Zealand has strict biosecurity rules.

If you don't declare items for quarantine, you'll get an instant fine.

If you make a false statement, you'll face heavy fines and prison sentences.

Customs requirements

When you arrive, customs officers may check electronic devices they suspect are being used in criminal activity. Devices may include:

mobile phones
portable tablets
hard drives
digital cameras

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

New Zealand recognises dual nationality.

If you're an Australian-New Zealand dual citizen, use your Australian passport to enter and leave Australia.

Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. Make sure you meet all entry and exit conditions. Contact NZ Immigration for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules. If you don't meet the conditions, the Australian Government can't help you.

Visa conditions

Most Australian citizens don’t need a visa to enter unless you have a criminal record or if you've been deported from any country.

Australian permanent residents need to apply online for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) to enter New Zealand. Australian citizens are exempt from this rule.

For more information refer to the NZ Government Immigration website .

If you've been:

convicted of any crimes, or
deported from any country

Contact a New Zealand Visa Application Centre for advice well before you travel.

New Zealand Visa Application Centre

Level 6 66 Hunter Street Sydney NSW 2000

Phone: +61 2 8278 4529 or 1800 388 718 Website: www.immigration.govt.nz Email: [email protected]

Border measures

If you are a New Zealand visa or NZeTA holder you still need to complete an NZTD.

For more information see the NZTD website .

Maritime border

New Zealand's maritime border is open to all vessels, including foreign flagged vessels, cruise ships, recreational vessels (such as yachts and small craft) and specialist vessels used in research and exploration.

For more information see the New Zealand Customs Service – Travelling to New Zealand webpage .

Travelling to New Zealand (New Zealand Government)
Information for visa holders (New Zealand Immigration)

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

New Zealand Immigration requires you to have 3 months of validity on your passport after the date you plan to leave. If you're planning to travel to another destination after leaving New Zealand, you may need more than 3 months validity on your passport after your departure date.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

NZ Immigration

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country.

New Zealand Immigration recognises gender 'X' on passports. If in doubt, contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

More information:

LGBTI travellers

The local currency is the New Zealand Dollar ($NZ).

Declare all amounts over $NZ10,000 or equivalent on arrival and departure. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

ATM availability is similar to Australia.

You can use debit or credit cards in most places as you would in Australia.

Contact your bank to let them know you'll use your cards overseas.

Local travel

Driving permit.

You can drive for up to 12 months with your Australian driver's licence.

After that, you'll need to get a local licence.

Driver licences

Road travel

Ice, snow, fog, high winds and roaming animals can cause hazardous conditions. Heavy rain can cause landslides across roads.

Outside major cities, there aren't many motorways. Overtaking opportunities are limited.

Prepare for longer travel times than in Australia.

Railway crossings don't always have barriers, particularly in country areas.

If you're driving in mountain areas or to ski fields, be aware that roads:

are often narrow and unpaved
may not have safety barriers
may require you to use snow chains
may only be accessible by 4WD

It’s illegal to use a mobile phone while driving, but there is an exemption for 111 calls in genuine emergencies. Hands-free devices and 2-way radio are permitted.

If you plan to drive in New Zealand:

learn the local road rules before driving
be careful if there's ice, snow, fog or high winds
check for road closures and warnings with the New Zealand Transport Agency
equip yourself for current and possible weather conditions
Driving or riding
Driving in New Zealand

Motorcycles

Make sure your travel insurance covers using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis and rideshares are generally reliable. The standards are similar to Australia.

The New Zealand Transport Authority regulates taxis and rideshare apps.

Public transport

Buses, trains and ferries operate throughout New Zealand. State-run services are also regulated by the New Zealand Transport Authority.

Take care of your belongings on public transport.

Transport and getting around safely

Several international cruise lines stopover in New Zealand.

Going on a cruise

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check New Zealand's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

family and friends
travel agent
insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian High Commission, Wellington

72-76 Hobson Street Thorndon Wellington, New Zealand

Phone: +64 4 473 6411 Fax: +64 4 498 7103 Website: newzealand.highcommission.gov.au Facebook: Australia in New Zealand Twitter: @AusHCNZ

Australian Consulate-General

Level 7, HSBC Tower 186-194 Quay Street Auckland City, New Zealand

Phone: +64 9 921 8800 Fax: +64 9 921 8820

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

+61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to New Zealand?

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

Visas and entry requirements

If you’re thinking about visiting New Zealand, passport and visa organisation is key.

Visas, New Zealand

By Tourism New Zealand

Learn more about the available visa options and entry requirements into Aotearoa New Zealand, including the New Zealand Traveller Declaration.

Aotearoa New Zealand enjoys welcoming Australian manuhiri (visitors) to our beautiful country.

Having a valid passport, the right visa and completing the entry requirements are key to a trouble-free entry into New Zealand.

Your passport has to be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date, and if required, have a valid New Zealand visa .

On this page, you'll find helpful information on:

Arriving in New Zealand
Visitor visa for a holiday
Working holiday visa
Transit visa (through New Zealand or Australia)

New Zealand visa options

Visiting new zealand for a holiday.

You do not need a visa to visit New Zealand if you are:

A New Zealand citizen travelling on a New Zealand passport or on a foreign passport that has a New Zealand citizen endorsement
An Australian citizen travelling on an Australian passport
A foreign passport holder with a valid visa for New Zealand - including a Permanent Resident visa

If you plan to visit New Zealand for a short period, you need request a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (opens in new window) (NZeTA) before you travel if you are:

A citizen of a country which has a visa waiver (opens in new window) agreement with New Zealand (you can stay up to three months)

If you don’t meet the above, then you’ll need a visitor visa. The fastest and easiest way to apply for a visitor visa (opens in new window) is online.

Before travelling to New Zealand, you need to make sure your passport is valid for at least three months longer than your expected departure date.

Be sure to request your NZeTA , or apply for your visitor visa well in advance of travel to avoid delays, and only use the official NZeTA website to request your New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority.

For more information on cost and processing times, visit the official NZeTA website .

If you have a biometric ordinary passport (or electronic passport) and are over 12 years old, you may be able to use New Zealand Customs eGate service. This allows you to complete your Customs and Immigration checks faster so you can get on with enjoying your visit to New Zealand.

Essential travel information

Working holidays.

Working holiday visas (opens in new window) are available to young people, usually aged 18-30 (but 18-35 for a select few nationalities). They let you travel and work in New Zealand for up to 12 months, or 23 months if you’re from the UK. To apply you’ll need to meet the visa requirements, and have:

A return ticket, or enough money to pay for one; and
Be coming mainly to holiday, with work being a secondary intention.

Back to the top

Work visas and staying permanently

If you’re thinking of coming to New Zealand to work for a few years, or maybe even to settle, you’ll need a work or resident visa. To get that – you’re likely to need a job.

For information about working in New Zealand, including industry profiles, tips on job hunting, and a list of job sites to check out, visit New Zealand Now. (opens in new window)

Transiting through New Zealand or Australia

If you are travelling to New Zealand via an Australian airport, you may also need an Australian visa – consult your travel agent or airline if you are unsure.

Transit visas (opens in new window) will also be needed for all people travelling via New Zealand, unless they are specifically exempted by immigration policy.

More information about visas

The visa and immigration information on this page is just a summary. For everything you need to know about coming to New Zealand, visit Immigration New Zealand. (opens in new window)

Find out if you need a visa

Arriving in Aotearoa New Zealand

Everyone entering New Zealand needs to complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) (opens in new window) including babies and children.

Traveller Declaration requirements (opens in new window)

It’s free and you can complete it on the NZTD website or by downloading the NZTD app ahead of your travel.

You can start your NZTD at a time that suits you. If arriving by plane, the earliest you can submit your declaration is 24 hours before you start your trip to New Zealand. An NZTD needs to be submitted by the time you reach New Zealand passport control.

If arriving by boat (including cruise ships), the earliest you can submit your NZTD is 24 hours before departing the vessel’s last foreign port prior to arriving in New Zealand.

It needs to be submitted by the time the vessel has berthed at its first port in New Zealand.

If you apply for a visa or NZeTA, you still need to complete an NZTD (opens in new window) .

Here's how to complete your declaration online.

The form is available in English and Te Reo Māori, as well as simplified and traditional Chinese Mandarin.

From April 2024, the form will be in 12 more languages: Hindi, Samoan, Fijian, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Malay, Tagalog, Tamil, Tongan, and Portuguese.

Paper NZTD forms will be available for travellers who cannot complete it online.

Fill out your NZ Traveller Declaration

What you can bring into New Zealand

After you’ve cleared passport control, you should collect your baggage and proceed through customs and biosecurity checks. In order to protect New Zealand and its environment, certain items are not allowed to be brought into the country, have restrictions for entry or must be declared if they are deemed to present a biosecurity risk. These include food, plants, animal products and outdoor recreational equipment.

Your baggage may be sniffed by a detector dog and/or x-rayed, and it may be searched to identify any risk goods you might be carrying.

To avoid penalties it is best to familiarise yourself with these guidelines prior to travel. For a detailed list of prohibited, restricted or declarable items, please visit Ministry for Primary Industries (opens in new window) (biosecurity agency).

Allowances and duty free concessions

As a visitor to New Zealand you may be entitled to various concessions and duty free entries on some of your goods. If you are 17 years or older, you are entitled to allowances for alcohol, cigarettes and tobacco. For detailed information on allowances and duty free concessions, please visit New Zealand Customs (opens in new window) .

Share on Facebook
Share by email

Where to Next?

Travelling to NZ long-arrow-right

Adventure through this stunning National Park

Travel agents and agencies long-arrow-right

Air New Zealand is New Zealand's national air carrier

Flights To New Zealand long-arrow-right

Wandering our World

Your Journey Begins Here

by Wandering our World
Posted on July 7, 2023

Australia vs New Zealand: An Honest Comparison To Help You Choose!

Last updated on July 7, 2023 by Wandering our World

A ustralia and New Zealand are two of the world’s most amazing places to visit. Boasting beautiful landscapes, exotic wildlife, and friendly, laid-back locals, these two countries share more than a few cultural elements and even have a friendly rivalry with one another.

But, despite some similarities, they’re very different places. They differ enormously in terms of size and geography, and each of these two nations has its own unique attractions, landmarks, history, and culture.

So, which one should you visit? Well, that all depends on what you want out of your vacation. If you love beautiful beaches and vibrant cities, for example, Australia might have more appeal to you, while outdoor adventurers and adrenaline lovers are sure to fall in love with New Zealand.

There’s such a lot to say about each of these countries, and many different ways to compare them. So, let’s dive right ahead! In this guide, we’ll put Australia and New Zealand side-by-side, looking at their beaches, wildlife, activities, nightlife, food, and much more. All so you can make the right choice!

A Quick Overview

Which is easier to get to, which is easier to get around , which has the best weather .

Which Has The Best Beaches & Coastline?
Which Is Best For Activities?

Which Is Better For Nightlife?

Which Is Better For A Family Vacation?

Which Is Best For Backpackers?

Which Has The Best Food?
Which Is Cheaper?
Which Is The Better Choice?

Australia: A Quick Overview

Let’s start off with a look at Australia. Officially known as the Commonwealth of Australia and nicknamed ‘The Land Down Under’, Australia is the sixth-largest country in the world.

It consists of the Australian mainland, along with the island state of Tasmania and some other small islands dotted around the surrounding waters.

Together, these land masses cover more than 2.9 million square miles (over 7.6 million square kilometers), and Australia’s total population is around 26 million people, with a large percentage of those people living in the cities along the country’s east and southeast coastlines.

Australia has a diverse range of landscapes, from tropical forests to mountains, and a very large part of the land is taken up by a huge expanse of arid desert known as the outback, which covers most of central Australia and is very sparsely populated.

This country is particularly famous for its wildlife, being the home of kangaroos, koala bears, wombats, and emus.

Kangaroo at Lucky Bay in the Cape Range National Park near Esperance, Western Australia

It’s also home to some of the world’s most dangerous creatures, like venomous snakes and spiders. But don’t worry – the vast majority of travelers leave Australia without experiencing any unfortunate animal encounters!

Australia is also where you can find the world-famous Great Barrier Reef – the world’s biggest coral reef – and other awe-inspiring natural landmarks, like Uluru.

There’s also many large, well-developed cities, such as Sydney, with its iconic opera house and beautiful beaches, and Melbourne, home of an eclectic arts scene and excellent nightlife.

Cityscape image of Sydney, Australia with Harbour Bridge and Sydney skyline during sunset.

New Zealand: A Quick Overview

New Zealand is an island nation that consists of two main islands – known as the North Island and the South Island – along with hundreds of other small islands.

It’s located to the southeast of Australia, around 1,200 miles away from Australia’s eastern coast, and the two countries are separated by the Tasman Sea.

In total, New Zealand’s islands cover around 103,500 square miles of land (268,000 square km). NZ is therefore significantly smaller than Australia and has a smaller population of around 5 million people. Like Australia, New Zealand’s population is diverse, made up of a mixture of indigenous Maori people and descendants of European settlers.

A lot of those European settlers originally came from Britain, which is also true for Australia. This is why English is the most-spoken language in both of these countries and British influence can be felt in certain parts of their cultures.

Wellington Cable Car, the landmark of New Zealand.

However, New Zealand’s culture is also strongly influenced by its Maori roots, with a range of South Pacific customs and traditions.

In terms of geography, New Zealand is famed for its extraordinary mountains – especially the Southern Alps of the South Island – as well as its forests and lakes.

The country’s scenic beauty became widely-known after it was used as a filming location for The Lord of the Rings movie trilogy, along with other popular blockbusters.

As well as being a backpacker’s paradise, with so many scenic landscapes to explore, New Zealand is also popular with adventurers and thrill-seekers. Activities like skydiving, swimming with dolphins, kayaking, and mountain climbing are easily accessible and incredibly fun.

Reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman in Lake Matheson, Fox Glacier New Zealand.

When you’re planning a trip, one of the first things to think about is how you’re going to get to your destination (and how much it will cost to get there).

Australia and New Zealand may be neighbors, but there are still many miles separating them, so it might be easier and cheaper for you to get to one over the other.

Australia has multiple international airports that visitors can fly into. Sydney is the largest airport and has direct connections with many parts of the world, including the US and Canada, South Africa, South America, and Asia. Melbourne and Brisbane airports also have plenty of links with places like the US.

For Europeans, the options are more limited, but there are some direct routes that go from London and Rome straight to Perth airport on Australia’s west coast.

Otherwise, you’ll have to make at least one connection, and journey times can exceed 22 hours from the UK, while US travelers can arrive much faster – a direct flight from LA to Sydney lasts 15 hours.

If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, you can also choose from multiple airports, although most international passengers arrive at Auckland. This airport has direct links to several cities around North America, as well as Australia, Asia, and South America. For the sake of comparison, a flight from LA to Auckland takes 13 hours.

So, if you’re flying from the US, it can be slightly faster and easier to get to New Zealand than Australia. However, for those traveling from Europe, it’s not so simple. There aren’t currently any direct flights from the European continent to NZ, and a connecting flight from London can take over 30 hours in total.

Lyttelton Harbour Sunset Christchurch New Zealand

As well as getting to your chosen destination, you’ll also need to find ways to get around once you’re there. And, since New Zealand and Australia have such vastly different sizes, the former is generally a lot simpler to navigate than the latter.

The smaller size of New Zealand makes it easier for travelers to get around and see the main sights without spending hours in the car. Most visitors rent their own vehicle or RV to drive around in, and there’s a great road network here that connects the various towns and cities.

If you prefer to depend on public transport, New Zealand also has a decent bus system, with public buses connecting the various towns and guided coach tours that can take you to out to the various national parks and wildlife areas.

Domestic flights are also an option for those who want to hop between the islands, or you can take a ferry from the North Island to the South Island, and vice versa – a typical journey lasts around 3.5 hours, and you’ll have a good chance of spotting some whales, dolphins, and seals along the way, so it’s definitely worth a ride.

Aerial view on a beautiful bridge across a small stream with Mount Taranaki on the background. New Zealand

Australia is a much larger country, and a rental car is a necessity for most travelers, providing the freedom you need to travel between cities and into the wilder areas of the Land Down Under.

There are buses here, too, but certain areas can be tricky to get to by bus and the journey times can be very long.

If you plan to travel large distances in Australia, the best option is to fly. Luckily, the country has a good network of domestic airports and flight routes connecting places like Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, but the costs of even these short flights can add up, so it’s recommended to plan out your trip with care and book in advance.

The weather is one of the key factors that many people keep in mind when planning a vacation. After all, we all dream of sunshine and warmth, and nobody wants their dream getaway to be washed out with rain and wind. So, how does the weather compare in these two locations?

Well, Australia is statistically one of the driest countries in the world. There’s not a lot of rainfall there, and most of Australia enjoys very warm summers and mild winters. In general, the weather conditions are perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and similar activities.

Over in New Zealand, the climate is influenced quite heavily by the surrounding waters, which leads to more variable weather conditions throughout the year.

Average temperatures are lower in New Zealand than in Australia, even on the warmer North Island, and some areas can be quite rainy and windy at certain times of year.

Port Douglas beach and ocean on sunny day, Queensland, Australia

Which Is Better For Beaches & Coastline?

One of the most popular things to do on vacation is to visit local beaches and spend time sunbathing, strolling on the sand, watching the sun go down, and splashing around in the water. You can do all of this and more at the beaches of both Australia and New Zealand.

With over 16,000 miles of coastline (the sixth longest of any country in the world), Australia has an enormous amount of beaches, and some of them rank among the most beautiful on the planet, with the likes of Bondi Beach and Cable Beach being known far and wide for their distinctive appearances and soft sands.

Despite being much smaller than Australia, New Zealand also has a very long coastline, running for around 9,300 miles in total. The best beaches there are primarily found on the North Island, with places like the Coromandel Peninsula offering super swimming and snorkeling conditions, right alongside scenic coves and dramatic cliffs.

But which country is best for beaches? Well, thanks to its sheer range of beaches, and the fact that it’s home to some of the world’s best-rated beaches, Australia probably wins in this category. However, New Zealand is still a fine place to visit for seaside fun.

That said, below we show you a few of the top coastal destinations in each country so you can make up your own mind:

High angle aerial drone view of the Neck, an isthmus of land connecting north and south Bruny Island in southern Tasmania, Australia that offers 360 degree views and is a famous tourist destination.

Australia: The Beaches

When many people think of Australia, they think of beaches. The Land Down Under has a big beach culture, with locals and visitors from around the world spending large parts of their time on the sand, soaking up the sun or hitting the waves with surfboards and snorkeling gear.

Whether you’re looking for pristine, unspoiled stretches of sand or well-developed beaches with lots of amenities and easy access to shops and restaurants, Australia has it all.

Bondi Beach is one of the most famous spots. Handily located to the east of Sydney, this must-see beach is a haven for surfers, sunbathers, yoga fans, and photographers. You can do almost anything there, and then walk over to nearby shops and cafes whenever you feel like it.

For something different, head to Whitehaven Beach , a seven kilometer stretch of the softest, sugar-like sand and stunning turquoise waters. Backing onto a verdant national park, this is by far one of the country’s most striking beaches.

Turquoise Bay is another dreamy spot, ideal for snorkeling, while Wineglass Bay over on Tasmania is simply out of this world, with some super hiking trails and towering mountain peaks watching over the silky smooth sands and gentle waters.

A view looking down at Bondi Beach in Sydney on a busy day with blue water

New Zealand: The Beaches

New Zealand also has a dazzling array of beaches, many of which are relatively unspoiled and untouched by man. These are the kinds of beaches where you truly feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of big cities, free to stroll, sunbathe, or simply relax with a good book.

Rarawa Beach is one of the prettiest. Situated towards the northern tip of the North Island, this beach has some of the whitest sand in the whole country. Or, you can head to the black sands of Karekare Beach , nicely located less than an hour’s drive from Auckland.

For something truly special, travelers should visit Hot Water Beach at Coromandel. Here, it’s actually possible to dig yourself a hole and make your own mini hot tub, thanks to the natural hot springs that give the beach its name.

While in the Coromandel area, you can also stop off at Cathedral Cove , so-called for the cathedral-like rock arches that hanging over the beach’s golden sands.

There are also beaches that are super for wildlife spotting, like Gillespies Beach , where it’s common to see seals stretching out along the shore, as well as prime surfing spots like Koekohe Beach , which is also famous for its smooth, spherical boulders, believed to be some 60 million years old.

Overall, there’s some nice diversity in the beaches of New Zealand, and you can find all kinds of coastal experiences here. But, because of the pleasant amenities, warmer weather, and vast sizes of its beaches, Australia is probably the better destination for beach-based R & R.

panoramic view of a tropical beach with turquoise water and white sand in abel tasman national park, new zealand

Which Is Best For Activities?

Beaches are likely to take up some of your time in either Australia or New Zealand, but these countries both have many other interesting activities to offer, from big city shopping and attractions to natural landmarks and wilderness adventures.

Knowing what activities you can do in each can help you decide which country best suits your interests.

As you’ll see below, Australia stands out for its more dynamic and lively cities, as well as its unique wildlife and coastal activities, while New Zealand is the country of choice for awe-inspiring landscapes, hiking and all-season adventures.

Australia: The Activities

One of the best things to do in Australia is spending time in the country’s fabulous cities. A lot of travelers will head to Sydney first. There, you can visit one of Australia’s most famous landmarks, the Sydney Opera House, or take a boat ride around Sydney Harbour.

Melbourne is another terrific urban environment, famed for its galleries, markets, vibrant nightlife, and antique stores, while Brisbane – the capital of Queensland – is a great city to learn more about Australia’s culture at Queensland Museum or get up-close with the nation’s wildlife at the famous Australia Zoo.

To see an even wilder side of Australia, travelers can take a trip into the outback. Home to dusty mountains and jaw-dropping scenery, it’s the ultimate off-the-beaten-path experience.

You can enjoy all sorts of activities here, from luxury train rides through the desert to hikes, helicopter rides, or spending a night in a genuine underground hotel at Coober Pedy.

Or, to connect with the country’s indigenous roots, you might like to visit Aboriginal sacred sites, like Nourlangie Rock, Rainbow Valley , and the legendary Uluru – also known as Ayers Rock, this huge sandstone formation dates back over 550 million years.

Australia is also famed for its wildlife, so visitors might like to stop off at petting zoos, farms, and ranches to see the likes of kangaroos and wombats. Or, for an underwater experience you’ll never forget, take a scuba diving expedition to the Great Barrier Reef – the world’s most famous coral reef.

Sydney Opera House and Circular quay, ferry terminus, from the harbour bridge.

New Zealand: The Activities

New Zealand is a very rural country, with large parts of the land dominated by farms, mountains, and unspoiled natural landscapes.

The cities in NZ are smaller and less touristic than those of Australia, but there are still some fun things to do in places like Auckland and Christchurch.

Auckland is the country’s biggest city and the point of arrival for most travelers, thanks to its large international airport. Home to pretty harbors and nicknamed the City of Sails, Auckland is also a nice place to shop and eat, while also boasting fabulous views of surrounding mountains.

You’ll find intriguing museums and pleasant boutiques in Christchurch, along with a great art scene in Wellington. However, the urban activities are less impressive here than Australia, and most visitors to NZ will spend the majority of their time out in the more natural areas of the country.

But it’s once you leave the cities behind that the truly unique charm of New Zealand is revealed. This country has some of the most incredible scenery on Earth. From the thermal pools of Rotorua to the otherworldly beauty of Milford Sound , there’s no end to New Zealand’s natural magnificence.

Adventurous activities and extreme sports are all the rage here, and visitors can try everything from ziplining to skydiving and bungee jumping.

Winter sports like skiing and snowboarding are possible too, thanks to the snowy peaks – these activities aren’t really an option in Australia – and New Zealand reigns supreme when it comes to hiking.

Both New Zealand and Australia offer more than enough activities to fill every day of your vacation, but what about the nights? You might be wondering what these two great nations have to offer for people who enjoy bars and clubs in the evenings.

Well, when it comes to nightlife, Australia is the better option. It has larger, livelier and more populous cities, with a whole host of things to do once the sun goes down, from the jazz bars of Sydney to the comedy clubs of Melbourne.

These two cities are also home to an array of popular nightclubs and trendy rooftop lounges – many of Sydney’s best rooftop spots have amazing views of the harbor. Or, for something more quintessentially ‘Aussie’, you can visit one of hundreds of pubs dotted all over the country.

In New Zealand, the nightlife scene is a little more subdued. Auckland has got its fair share of clubs and bars, but the other cities tend to be quieter in the evenings.

Still, there are a lot of good pubs and craft breweries in NZ, so you can certainly find places in which to get a good drink or spend some time after sunset before heading back to your hotel.

Which Is Best For A Honeymoon?

Both New Zealand and Australia are incredible places to go on a honeymoon, and many couples around Europe and North America dream of jetting off to the other side of the world to celebrate their love. But which place is best?

Well, that all depends on what sort of vibe and activities appeal to you the most.

Many would argue that New Zealand is the more romantic destination. With its magical scenery and pristine beaches, it’s the kind of place where you and your partner can simply immerse yourselves in nature and leave the noise of the big city behind.

Plus, New Zealand’s vast array of activities make it a nice place to go for thrill-seeking couples, offering a great mixture of romantic settings and exciting adventures.

Australia, meanwhile, may not necessarily give off the same kind of mystical or romantic aura, but it’s still a fabulous place for couples of all ages. It’s especially appealing if you and your partner want to spend a lot of your time lounging on paradise beaches or swimming in the sea.

Not only that, but the more vibrant nightlife of Australia may appeal to younger couples, and with so much to see and do, you’ll have plenty of options to fill up your honeymoon itinerary.

Young couple holding hands kissing at Roy's Peak Lake Wanaka New Zealand

Which Is Better For A Family Vacation ?

If you’re traveling with kids, choosing between Australia and New Zealand isn’t easy. There are arguments to be made for both countries, and the right choice for you may ultimately depend on the ages of your children and the unique preferences of your family.

Australia arguably has more things for kids to see and do. From family-friendly theme parks like Warner Bros. Movie World on the Gold Coast to amazing zoos, water parks, and wildlife experiences, the list goes on and on.

Children of all ages should be blown away by the dazzling wildlife in Australia, while the beaches, shops, museums, and other cultural landmarks can appeal to older kids and teens, in particular. On the downside, since Australia is so big, a trip here can involve a lot of traveling.

Mother koala with baby on her back, on eucalyptus tree.

In contrast, New Zealand has the benefit of being significantly smaller, meaning that you’ll spend less time traveling around if you want to get to a few of the well-known tourist sites.

Thanks to this, there’s less chance of your kids getting bored in the back seat or growing restless from having to spend so much time getting from place to place.

New Zealand also has some super family-friendly activities, like canopy tours and luging, while the Sky Tower of Auckland and Zealandia wildlife sanctuary in Wellington are great spots to check out with children.

Or, if your kids are Lord of the Rings or Hobbit fans, you can tour some of the spots in NZ where the famous movies were filmed.

Overall, Australia just about has the edge here, due to the quantity and variety of its family-friendly attractions, but NZ should still be considered a top destination for families, especially those with older kids.

back view of family sitting at the top of lion rock at piha beach, new zealand

Those planning a backpacking trip to either Australia or New Zealand can have a great time at either one of these destinations. The friendly locals and good public transport links make it fairly easy to get around both countries with everything you need on your back.

Australia is particularly welcoming to backpackers, and it’s not uncommon to see travelers here from around the world, hitchhiking or riding buses from place to place, spending nights in hostels and affordable guesthouses, and trying to see as much of the country as they can before they head home.

Like Australia, New Zealand is a primarily safe and suitable location for backpacking.

You can get around cheaply in NZ, and there are some cheap hostels and budget hotels in the big cities, like Auckland. But you might find it a little harder to find a low-cost place to stay in other parts of the country, unlike Australia which has cheap accommodations throughout.

Just like anywhere else in the world, backpackers in Australia or New Zealand will need to keep their wits about them and watch out for thieves and other criminals who might try to target tourists. But, in general, you can have a terrific time in either destination.

Hiker standing on cliff ledges mountain top

Which Has The Best Food?

Food is a big part of both Aussie and Kiwi (New Zealand) culture. These countries have their own unique specialties that visitors might like to sample, but which one is best? Well, that’ll all depend on your personal preferences, but here’s a quick breakdown of food and drink in Australia and New Zealand.

Visitors from places like the UK and the US should feel right at home with many of the most popular foods in Australia; the people here enjoy classic comfort foods like pizzas, steaks, and burgers, as well as their very own ‘meat pies’ – a small pie filled up with minced meat and usually served with a squirt of ketchup right on top.

You’ll also find plenty of Asian food around Australia, with many Chinese and Thai restaurants in the big cities, as well as a range of other eateries with European and American-style dining. Australia is also a leading winemaking nation, responsible for some of the world’s top-rated Shiraz and Merlot wines.

New Zealand arguably has more of its own culinary identity, with a distinctive blend of influences from Maori culture and the many European settlers who made their home here over the years.

There’s also a big focus on local ingredients, with the likes of New Zealand lamb and Pacific seafood featuring on many menus.

The island nation is a fantastic place to enjoy fresh fish, oysters, and mussels, straight from the ocean, and it’s definitely worth checking out some Maori recipes and cooking techniques while you’re in NZ, like sourdough-style rewena bread and hangi – a traditional feast of meat and vegetables that are cooked underground for several hours.

No matter what your tastes happen to be, you should find a lot to love in the foods of Australia and New Zealand. The former is a super choice for comfort food the whole family will love, while the latter is more oriented towards traditional dishes made of local ingredients.

Mixed grilled meat platter. Assorted delicious grilled steaks served with goat cheese on warm dish.

Which Is Cheaper?

When it comes to vacations in New Zealand and Australia, it’s often the flights that take up the biggest part of people’s budgets. Since many travelers come from places like the US and UK, flights to either of these destinations can be expensive, but how do the costs compare once you’re on the ground?

Well, when it comes to accommodation, Australia is typically a little pricier than New Zealand. Hotels in high-demand areas like Sydney and Melbourne can cost quite a lot, although it’s perfectly possible to save money by staying in one of the less popular areas.

You also need to think about travel costs in Australia, as the price of a rented car and gas can quickly add up as the days go by. However, it is possible to find tours and activities here for fairly low prices, as there are lots of tour companies and plenty of competition to keep costs down.

Over in New Zealand, accommodation is more affordable, even in the big cities like Auckland and Wellington. Day-to-day costs are comparable to US standards, and you won’t have to spend as much on getting around as you would in Australia.

At the same time, it can be quite expensive to do all the things you might like to do in NZ; prices for guided tours, skydives, zip-lines, and so on will quickly accumulate, and even a single tour to a national park or landmark can be quite expensive, so you’ll need to plan out your itinerary with care and manage your budget accordingly.

Cityscape of Queenstown and Lake Wakaitipu with The Remarkables and mountain around from viewpoint at Queenstown Skyline, South Island of New Zealand

Australia vs New Zealand: Which Is Better?

So, which of these two countries should you choose? Ultimately, that all depends on you. It’s impossible to say that one of these countries is the best for vacations, but one of them might be better for you, depending on the vibe and activities you like the most.

Those looking for a chilled-out vibe and planning to spend lots of time on the beach or exploring exciting cities will definitely enjoy Australia, while those who prefer nature and non-stop adventure will absolutely adore New Zealand.

For most travelers, Australia might just about be the better option. It has warmer weather, superior nightlife, more things for families, and a wide range of things to do throughout your vacation, from big city entertainment to unbeatable scuba diving.

With that said, New Zealand should not be overlooked or underestimated. Often described as one of the most amazing places on Earth, this is a picturesque land of unparalleled beauty, perfect for those who appreciate nature and love to live life to the fullest.

Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.

View all posts

Author: Wandering our World

Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe. View all posts by Wandering our World

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

New Zealand Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for New Zealand.

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

Chickenpox (Varicella)
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
Flu (influenza)
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Consider hepatitis A vaccination for most travelers. It is recommended for travelers who will be doing higher risk activities, such as visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where a traveler might get infected through food or water. It is recommended for travelers who plan on eating street food.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to New Zealand. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to New Zealand.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

New Zealand is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Airborne & droplet.

Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
Bite from an infected rodent
Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
Avoid rodents and areas where they live
Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in New Zealand, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Although New Zealand is an industrialized country, bug bites here can still spread diseases. Just as you would in the United States, try to avoid bug bites while spending time outside or in wooded areas.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Consider using permethrin-treated clothing and gear if spending a lot of time outside. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
2-undecanone
Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in New Zealand include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip:

Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
If you are outside for many hours in the heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if you are driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

Use latex condoms correctly.
Do not inject drugs.
Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance for things your regular insurance will not cover.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medicines you take.
Bring copies of your prescriptions for medicine and for eye glasses and contact lenses.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call New Zealand’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Make sure there are seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in New Zealand, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in New Zealand.

Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
Follow all local laws and social customs.
Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for New Zealand for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Other Destinations

If you need help finding travel information:

Message & data rates may apply. CDC Privacy Policy

File Formats Help:

Adobe PDF file
Microsoft PowerPoint file
Microsoft Word file
Microsoft Excel file
Audio/Video file
Apple Quicktime file
RealPlayer file
Zip Archive file

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

New Terms of Use
New Privacy Policy
Your Privacy Choices
Closed Caption Policy
Accessibility Statement

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. ©2024 FOX News Network, LLC. All rights reserved. Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. Market data provided by Factset . Powered and implemented by FactSet Digital Solutions . Legal Statement . Mutual Fund and ETF data provided by Refinitiv Lipper .

A travel guide to New Zealand: Cost, culture and more tips for visiting the country

New zealand is a dream destination for 'the lord of the rings' and 'the hobbit' fans, outdoor enthusiasts.

Former airline employee shares top travel hack for frequent flyers

Brooke Webster details how to get up-to-date flight information on travel days. As a former airline employee, she said texting yourself your flight number on the morning of your travel day is her top hack to share with others. Learn why.

New Zealand's breathtaking scenery is recognized for providing the cinematic backdrop of many blockbuster films.

With a mix of serene beaches, rugged mountains and a vibrant culture, it is no wonder it has become a popular travel destination.

Whether the traveler is seeking the quaint charm of the North Island or the breathtaking dramatic views of the South Island, adventures can be found everywhere. Visitors can anticipate unexpected adventures and lasting memories on their trip if they have chosen New Zealand as their destination.

10 ITEMS YOU NEED FOR YOUR NEXT BEACH VACATION AND BEACHES YOU SHOULD VISIT

New Zealand's lakes get their color from fine silt particles, or glacial flour, in the water. (Jorge Fernández/LightRocket)

Whether traveling to New Zealand to observe the breathtaking scenery, delve into the Māori culture or enjoy some of the best wines in the world, having a plan can help your trip be as smooth and stress-free as possible.

General New Zealand travel info

Predominant language spoken: English

Currency: New Zealand dollar (NZD) $

Bills/notes include $5, $10, $20 and $50
Coins come in 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2

Electricity: Type 1 plugs. These include three flat pins in a triangular pattern.

Travel requirements: Unless a New Zealand or Australian citizen, a valid passport is required. A visa or New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) may be required.

Geography of New Zealand

New Zealand, a favorite spot for filming movies , offers diverse scenery from majestic glaciers and rugged mountains to narrow sea inlets called fjords and sandy beaches that dot the coastline. The country is in the South Pacific Ocean and comprises two islands divided by the Cook Strait.

New Zealand is known for its fjords, which are long, deep and narrow bodies of water sandwiched by steep land. (Getty Images)

The North Island is the more urbanized of the two, with the country's two biggest cities, Wellington and Auckland. It presents a pleasant view of rolling green hills and farmland. Unique features of this island include geothermal areas with geysers, bubbling mud pools, hot springs and active volcanoes.

The Lost Spring in Whitianga has 16,000-year-old geothermal mineral water and is just one of the hot spring locations on the island.

VACATION DESTINATIONS ARE OFTEN CHOSEN FROM POPULAR BOOKS ON THE SHELF, STUDY SAYS: SEE IF YOU'VE READ THESE

Tall mountain ranges adorn its middle with lush farmland on either side. It also has an active volcanic and thermal area in its central part.

The South Island boasts the magnificent Southern Alps. This island also offers sights of rolling farmland and flat expanses known as the Canterbury Plains.

Sheep are mustered for shearing along the farmland on a New Zealand hill

More than 38% of New Zealand was farmland in 2021, according to World Bank data. (Fiona Goodall)

New Zealand consists of a diverse coastline. The North Island features sandy beaches perfect for swimming and various water activities. The northern part of the South Island also offers charming and smooth beaches, while the rest of its coastline is more rugged and not as desirable for beach activities.

What not to do when visiting New Zealand

Venturing into a new country can be exciting, and knowing the common pitfalls can save travelers from awkward situations.

Compare New Zealand to Australia

A frequent mistake is comparing New Zealand to Australia .

Both are islands, but that's about where the similarities end. With its enchanting natural surroundings and wide range of outdoor activities, New Zealand appeals to nature enthusiasts. Australia, though, is famous for its magnificent beaches.

Stay within your comfort zone

Venturing out of one's comfort zone can enhance the travel experience of New Zealand visitors. From adrenaline-pumped adventures to serene nature strolls, the islands offer diverse activities that appeal to all interests.

Local food is an integral part of Kiwi culture. Embracing these unique culinary experiences may enhance a traveler's perspective of New Zealand.

New Zealand is a popular destination for skiers between June and September. (David Gray/AFP)

Only visit the South Island

While crafting their itineraries, many travelers focus primarily on the South Island.

Most visitors start in Auckland, where the main international airport is located, and spend most of their time in the South Island. But limiting the visit to the South Island may mean missing out on the North Island's natural grandeur, world-class restaurants and inspiring art scenes.

5 TIPS FOR FAMILY TRAVEL THAT COULD MAKE THE EXPERIENCE HAPPIER, HEALTHIER AND MUCH MORE MEMORABLE

Ignore customs of the Māori culture

Understanding and respecting local customs, such as basic phrases in the Māori language, can truly enhance the travel experience . It shows respect for the indigenous culture, creating a whole and rewarding journey.

How much does a trip to New Zealand cost?

Travelers with various budgets can have an enjoyable experience in New Zealand. However, the itinerary, food choices and accommodations booked will differ depending on how much the tourists can and are willing to spend.

A one-week trip to New Zealand for two costs around $1,924 and $962 for one person, according to budgetyourtrip.com.

Every traveler should research and create a budget for each spending item before they embark on their journey. Some items to consider include:

Accommodations
Transportations
Activities, both planned and unplanned
Restaurants
Car rentals or other means of transportation
Souvenirs and gifts
Buffer for miscellaneous items

SOLO TRAVEL EXPERTS REVEAL BENEFITS OF TRAVELING ALONE IN 2024, HOT DESTINATIONS TO PUT ON YOUR BUCKET LIST

What to know about the Māori culture

Native to New Zealand are the Māori.

Their cultural heritage forms an essential part of the country's identity. The Māori language can be heard throughout New Zealand, spoken by the indigenous Māori and many other inhabitants. Understanding a few common Māori phrases can help visitors immerse themselves in the local culture.

The marae is a communal or sacred meeting place in Māori society, including a dining area, meeting room, bathroom and other facilities.

Each marae is distinct and carries the unique identity of a specific tribe or family. Visitors who enter a marae meeting area should honor the culture, beginning with only entering after being welcomed in.

What is the best time of year to visit New Zealand?

New Zealand's diverse landscape results in varied weather throughout the islands. With a maritime climate, it experiences all four seasons, lending itself to a host of tourist activities regardless of the timing of their visit.

The optimal time to explore New Zealand depends on tourists' preferred experiences. Whether the trip is for outdoor adventures , relaxation, food and wine festivals or the stunning scenery, New Zealand caters to all.

December to March is the prime time to visit, especially for those seeking a laid-back holiday with relaxing beach days and moderate activities, according to Tourism New Zealand.

During these summer months, with temperatures ranging between 68˚F and 77˚F, the long, warm days are perfect for beach visits and outdoor adventures.

Bag End in Hobbiton with sign in front of Bilbo Baggins' home

"The Lord of the Rings" or "The Hobbit" fans can take a guided tour of the Hobbiton movie set. It is located two hours south of Auckland. (Anthony Devlin/PA Images)

If vacation plans are made outside this period, the experience will be no less enjoyable. Despite the higher chance of rain, the rugged terrain and breathtaking landscapes remain a desirable attraction — just remember to pack an umbrella.

Skiers should consider a trip to the South Island between June and September. During this period, the mountains are blanketed in snow, providing ideal conditions for winter sports.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC REVEALS ITS 20 ‘BEST OF THE WORLD’ ADVENTURES TO CHECK OUT IN 2024

‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ filming locations to see

Tourists can visit the Hobbiton movie set in New Zealand. It is about a 15-minute drive from Matamata. (Alex Livesey/FIFA)

New Zealand's mountain ranges, rushing rivers and green hills were the obvious choices for the location scout for the "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy .

Fans can find Middle-earth™ throughout the North and South Islands as the Tolkien-based movies were entirely filmed on these islands.

Here are some must-see locations for fans of "The Hobbit" trilogy:

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

The Shire region of Middle‑earth™ — The village of Hobbiton was created on farmland in Matamata and is now a permanent attraction.
The Forbidden Pool — Tawhai Falls Track in Tongariro National Park was the film set for the scene in "The Two Towers" in which Frodo and Faramir capture Gollum.
Gardens of Isengard, Rivendell and other locations — Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is the location of several scenes in the trilogy. Mount Victoria is an accessible location that depicts Hobbiton Woods. Kaitoke Regional Park became Rivendell, where the quest to destroy the One Ring began.

Breana Scheckwitz is an SEO Editor at Fox News Digital.

Fox News' "Antisemitism Exposed" newsletter brings you stories on the rising anti-Jewish prejudice across the U.S. and the world.

You've successfully subscribed to this newsletter!

9 of the best places to visit in New Zealand

Oct 9, 2023 • 7 min read

New Zealand is famed for its natural beauty.

As you make your way around the country, you’ll see dramatic black-sand beaches, thermal springs, sandy coves, towering mountains and aquamarine lakes. City breaks include cosmopolitan Auckland , the cool capital of Wellington and ever-evolving Christchurch . However, many of the best places to visit in New Zealand involve leaving the city limits behind and immersing yourself in the great outdoors.

As you build your itinerary for Aotearoa (as New Zealand is known in the Māori language), here are nine spots that should top your list.

A large glass building sits on a high hill overlooking the Queenstown skyline of snow-capped mountains and a large lake with a chunk of greenery jutting into the water

1. Queenstown

Best for adventure activities

New Zealand’s adventure capital is a favorite with visitors and for good reason. On the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Queenstown ’s location makes it one of the country’s most sought-after places to work and play. There are three good ski hills (called “ski fields”) and an equally enviable après-ski scene.

Queenstown's reputation for adventure is justified: from bungy jumping and zip lines, to paragliding and jet boating, there are plenty of ways to satisfy a taste for adrenaline. Rounding out its experiences, the summer months offer excellent hiking, cycling and water sports on the lake.

Detour: Make time to explore the valleys and settlements around Queenstown. Visit nearby Lake Hayes, the lakeside village of Glenorchy and historic Arrowtown . Then spend a day (or more) in Wānaka , known for its low-key vibes and Instagram-famous tree. The nearby Gibbston Valley has some of the best wineries in the country.

2. Coromandel

Best for beautiful beaches

If you’re after a beach holiday, head to the Coromandel Peninsula , on the east coast of the North Island. While the iconic Cathedral Cove area is currently more difficult to access due to damage from 2023’s storms (you’ll need to take a boat or kayak tour to get there), there are countless other stunning beaches in the region.

For example, you could swim in the calm waters of Cooks Beach or take a 30-minute walk through native bush to find the more remote (but still popular) New Chums Beach. Other fun activities in the region include cycling through Karangahake Gorge, hiking the Pinnacles Trail and kayaking to Whenuakura Wildlife Sanctuary (Donut Island); a pristine, natural environment you can only explore from the water.

Planning tip: Rent a bach (holiday house) in one of the seaside towns of Hahei, Pauanui or Whangamatā, and make that your base for exploring the region.

A woman stands by a yellow kayak looking out to a rocky outcrop in the sea

3. Abel Tasman National Park

Best for hiking and kayaking

The South Island’s Abel Tasman National Park is an unspoiled natural environment replete with native bush, crystal-clear bays and white sandy beaches. You can access it on a day trip from Nelson , but this is a destination that demands more time if you can afford it.

The Abel Tasman Coast Track , one of New Zealand's Great Walks, is a 60km (37-mile) walk along the coastline with lovely views of the beach. It usually takes three to five days to complete the full walk; otherwise, take on just a section as a day or afternoon hike using water taxis to return to your starting point. Alternatively, go kayaking to the national park’s seal colony, dive into the waters, or simply relax in tiny hidden coves and bays.

Planning tip: Cars are only able to drive as far as Tōtaranui on the north edge of the national park and Mārahau at the southern entrance, so visitors need to either walk to their preferred destination or take a water taxi.

4. Fiordland National Park

Best for epic landscapes

On the edge of the South Island, Fiordland National Park is home to one of New Zealand’s most famous attractions, the majestic Milford Sound/Piopiotahi , where visitors can see plunging waterfalls along the fiord and rare marine wildlife, including Fiordland crested penguins and Hector’s dolphins. There are also several hiking trails in the national park (including the country’s most famous multiday walk, the Milford Track ), which takes visitors past snow-capped mountains and ice-forged fiords, with even more views of lakes, valleys and waterfalls.

Planning tip: Nearby Doubtful Sound/Patea is also spectacular but less accessible – travelers need to visit with a guide and by boat.

Two hikers follow steps made of ice through a tunnel in a glacier

5. West Coast

Best for glaciers

The rugged western coastline of the South Island is a raw juxtaposition of dense rainforests, craggy rocks and ancient glaciers. The major drawcards of this wild and remote region are the majestic Fox and Franz Josef glaciers , offering visitors a unique chance to witness rivers of ice that flow almost to sea level.

Take guided glacier hikes, heli-hikes or scenic flights to admire the glaciers for themselves. Other attractions of note include Punakaiki's Pancake Rocks , the turquoise Hokitika Gorge and the serene, mirror-like waters of Lake Matheson .

Planning tip: The West Coast receives a high amount of rainfall annually. Unfortunately, helicopter tours are weather-dependent. If you have your heart set on landing on a glacier, ensure your itinerary is flexible enough to allow for a bad weather day.

6. Mackenzie Region

Best for stargazing

Around two hours’ drive from Christchurch is the Mackenzie Region, a peaceful place with some of the country’s loveliest scenery. The region is an International Dark Sky Reserve with minimal light pollution, so be sure to keep an eye on the forecast. When you have a clear night, head to the observatory to see the stars through a telescope, or simply look up.

The Mackenzie is also the home of Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepherd , a stone building that’s one of the country’s most photographed spots. Nearby, the small town of Twizel makes a convenient base to explore the region. From there, you can easily access the lakes and Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park , which has a range of walks from short trails to full-day hikes.

Planning tip: Book a Tātai Aroraki (Māori astronomy) tour at the Dark Sky Project to learn about the significance of the night sky to Māori. This isn’t weather dependent so it’s a great option for wet weather days.

Three people of differing ages stand on a boardwalk and pose for a selfie. Behind them the earth is steaming and bubbling

Best for geothermal activity and Māori cultural experiences

At the heart of New Zealand’s geothermal action, Rotorua is the place to go to see bubbling mud pools, geysers and steaming rivers. Then, finish the day by taking a relaxing soak in a thermal mud bath.

Rotorua is just as renowned for its geological wonders as it is for its immersive cultural experiences. You can learn more about Māori culture and language with a visit to a traditional Māori marae (meeting grounds). At Te Puia geothermal park, for example, you'll see local Māori carvers at work at the New Zealand Māori Art and Crafts Institute. This attraction is also home to the southern hemisphere’s largest geyser. The nearby Whakarewarewa Forest (also known as the Redwoods) boasts some great cycling and hiking trails, and a treetop walk that is lit up beautifully at night.

Best for architecture

After a devastating earthquake in 1931, Napier was rebuilt almost completely, embracing the art deco style that was popular at the time. Today, it has one of the most extensive collections of art deco buildings in the southern hemisphere. Visitors who want to get their Great Gatsby on can immerse themselves in Napier’s history through guided walks, vintage car tours and the Art Deco Festival , which takes place each February.

Detour: Spend a day or two visiting the charming village of Havelock North and the Hawke’s Bay wineries, which produce award-winning syrahs, chardonnays and reds.

Māori warriors with tattoos, celebrating Waitangi Day, the anniversary of the Treaty of Waitangi between the British government and the Māori

9. Bay of Islands

Best for Māori history

The Bay of Islands , with its shimmering waters and myriad islets, is as pretty as it is important to the culture and history of the country. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds mark the place where a foundational document was signed between Māori chiefs and British representatives, forming modern-day New Zealand.

If you visit between November and March, you can also experience traditional performances at the treaty grounds, as well as a hāngī feast, where food is cooked in the earth. Beyond Waitangi, you can get out on the water with a waka (traditional canoe) tour, where local Māori guides share stories about their seafaring ancestors and the sacred spots within the bay. In nearby Paihia, download the Ātea Nuku app to experience an augmented reality walking tour showing the history of the town.

Planning tip: On Waitangi Day (February 6), all the Treaty Ground buildings are closed for the public holiday. Instead, a massive festival takes place. You can take part in a dawn ceremony, eat from food stalls and watch cultural performances.

This article was first published June 2021 and updated October 2023

Explore related stories

Couple running through Dublin's Temple Bar.

Destination Practicalities

Mar 30, 2024 • 4 min read

Who wouldn't jump at the chance to visit the Emerald Isle? Here’s how to check if you need a visa before setting off on your Irish adventure.

Mar 15, 2024 • 17 min read

Feb 27, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 24, 2024 • 8 min read

Young adult woman in black swimsuit walking into sea between rocks cliff in Croatia

Jan 17, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 5, 2024 • 20 min read

Nov 27, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 22, 2023 • 5 min read

Nov 17, 2023 • 10 min read

Oct 31, 2023 • 7 min read

Search Please fill out this field.
Manage Your Subscription
Give a Gift Subscription
Sweepstakes
Flight Deals

Score a Discounted Flight to Melbourne From One of These U.S. Hubs — When to Book

The sale must be booked by April 8 and requires a 7-day minimum stay.

Cavan Images/Getty Images

It just got cheaper to visit the Australian city of Melbourne thanks to an Air New Zealand sale that has flights from the United States starting at less than $1,000.

The sale , which must be booked by April 8 and requires a 7-day minimum stay, is available from each of the airline’s U.S. gateways, including from Los Angeles and San Francisco on the West Coast, and New York on the East Coast, the carrier shared with Travel + Leisure . As part of the sale, travelers can book fares in economy, premium economy, or in the airline’s Business Premier cabin.

“We look forward [to] welcoming our North American customers onboard for travel through to Melbourne, where they can experience one of Australia’s most vibrant cities,” Ben Evers-Swindell, Air New Zealand’s general manager, America, told T+L. “With some of our most competitive fares to-date, travelers will experience our famous Kiwi hospitality and inflight service at an incredible value. With seven North American gateways to choose from, and award-winning onboard products like the Skycouch, where customers can experience a lie-flat sleep in economy, now is a great time to plan a trip Down Under.”

Fly from either Los Angeles or San Francisco to Melbourne with a stopover in Auckland starting at just $998, or fly to the city from Houston starting at just $1,198. Travelers can fly to Melbourne from New York City ( flying nonstop to Auckland first) starting at just $1,498.

The sale also includes flights from Chicago to Melbourne starting at just $1,298. However, Air New Zealand will pause direct service between Auckland and Chicago from March 31 to Oct. 25, according to the airline .

Travel is even cheaper when flying from Honolulu with flights to Melbourne starting at just $898.

The sale also includes deals on Air New Zealand’s premium cabins, like flights from Los Angeles to Melbourne starting at $2,898 in premium economy, and starting at $6,898 in Business Premier.

The sale comes as Air New Zealand (which was named the safest airline in the world for 2024) prepares to introduce its Economy Skynest , which will feature sleeping pods passengers can take turns using.

In addition to the Skynest, travelers looking for a bit more space on long-haul flights can stretch out by booking a Skycouch in economy, which allows passengers to turn three seats into a makeshift bed; or by booking the “Economy Stretch” cabin class , which features 39 percent more legroom.

Travel Deals

Qantas launches mega sale on airfares to New Zealand

A major airline has slashed airfares to a holiday destination that more than a million Australian holiday makers flock to every year.

Scoot launch $355 Aussie fares to Europe

Day you don’t want to fly this Easter

Major shake-up for Qantas flyers

Qantas’ newest mega deal has taken flight, with more than 100,000 discounted seats to New Zealand on offer.

Australians looking for a getaway to Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown or Wellington can now purchase flights from $549 return from most Australian capital cities.

The discounted airfares, which include checked baggage, complimentary food and beverages and seat selection, are available for a range of different travel periods between April 2024 and February 2025.

Australians can purchase flights to New Zealand from $549 as part of a new deal. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Geraghty

Economy sale fares (return)

Sydney/Brisbane/Melbourne – Auckland $549

Sydney/Brisbane/Melbourne – Christchurch $569

Brisbane – Wellington $569

Melbourne – Queenstown $579

Adelaide – Auckland $669

Adelaide – Queenstown $769

Perth – Christchurch $1,079

Perth – Wellington $1,099

Business sale fares (return)

Sydney – Auckland $1,199

Brisbane – Christchurch $1,199

Melbourne – Wellington $1,199

More than one million Australians travelled to New Zealand in 2023. Picture: Tourism New Zealand.

New Zealand has long been a popular holiday destination, with 1.26 million Australians travelling to the idyllic location in 2023, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

More Coverage

The mega deal is the airline’s tenth sale this year and comes after Qantas has already discounted more than two million seats across the nine sales.

The sale fares are available until 11.59pm (AEST) April 11 2024 or unless sold out prior.

Holiday-makers can visit qantas.com for more details.

Budget airline Scoot is selling flights from Australia to Europe from just $355, as well as other popular overseas destinations.

If you were planning on flying from Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane on these dates, you may want to reconsider your plans.

National airline Qantas is expected to reveal a major change to how customers book flights.

Local news:

Sign up to newsletters from 7NEWS

Qantas releases 100,000 cheap return flights to new zealand.

Travellers looking to explore New Zealand ’s rugged landscapes, iconic adventure activities, and vibrant culture now have a bargain opportunity to do so.

Qantas has released 100,000 seats on flights leaving for the beloved Aussie neighbour until February next year, for as low as $549 return.

It’s the national carrier’s tenth sale of the year, and the cheap fares come with all the trimmings — checked baggage, complimentary food and beverages and seat selection.

Flights depart from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth, and land in Auckland, Queenstown and Wellington.

The cheapest of the lot are return flights to Auckland from Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne from $549.

Then, to Christchurch from Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne, return flights are on sale from $569.

From Brisbane to Wellington, return flights are also $569, and from Melbourne to Queenstown, returns flights are $579.

Return flights from Adelaide to Auckland are on sale from $669, and $769 from Adelaide to Queenstown.

From Perth to Christchurch, return flights are on sale from $1079, and $1099 from Perth to Wellington.

For those hoping to splurge on a business class seat with the money saved on the sale, flights from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, landing in Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington, are all $1199.

Stream free on

Airbnb reveals the top travel trends for Easter 2024

Key Takeaways

Aussies are going off-grid and disconnecting this Easter with some of the top searches on Airbnb including affordable accommodation such as cabins, farms and tiny homes
Domestic locations like Wilsons Promontory, Busselton, Denmark, Mount Gambier, Anglesea and the Central Coast are all leading the searches for regional Easter holidays this year - with many Aussies looking to explore their own backyard
For those longing for an overseas break, closer to home locations with minimal timezone differences are proving popular with Bali and Japan some of the most desired international destinations

As the Easter holidays approach, Airbnb has revealed the top travel locations Aussies are searching, and the types of accommodation they’re after.

Easter is a great time to take an extended trip, making the most of the four-day weekend. And if savvy travellers decide to make the most of the clever Easter annual leave hack – it also means that domestic and international travel could be on the cards.

Exploring our own backyard remains a trend this year, as the appeal toward smaller, regional destinations continues.

Easter getaways to cities just a road trip away are most desirable with Wilsons Promontory (VIC), Busselton (WA), Denmark (WA), Mount Gambier (SA), Anglesea (VIC) and the Central Coast (NSW )all featuring in the list of the most popular search locations on Airbnb.

A selection of the top trending domestic Aussie Easter holiday destinations 1 :

Anglesea, Victoria
Noosa Heads, Queensland
Anna Bay, New South Wales
Blairgowrie, Victoria
Geraldton, Western Australia
Wilsons Promontory, Victoria
Adelaide, South Australia
Avoca Beach, New South Wales
Mount Gambier, South Australia
Moreton Island, Queensland
Busselton, Western Australia

For those looking to maximise the Easter break, searches for international destinations are also proving popular, with significant year on year growth. Japan, south-east Asia and New Zealand were all among the most searched locations.

A selection of the top trending international Easter holiday destinations 2 :

Tokyo (Japan)
Kyoto (Japan)
Rome (Italy)
Wānaka (New Zealand)
Osaka (Japan)
South Kuta (Bali, Indonesia)
Bangkok (Thailand)
Taipei (Taiwan)
Christchurch (New Zealand)
Hong Kong (Hong Kong)

When it comes to the type of accommodation travellers are looking for, beaches, off-grid and affordable accommodation are all trending and with Airbnb offering options to suit every style and budget, there is something for everyone who wants to travel either locally or abroad this Easter.

With beach stays always popular before the weather gets too cool, data shows many Aussies are looking for more cost effective and unique options for the long weekend, with the likes of tiny homes, cabins and private rooms all within the most searched categories.

The top 10 categories searched in the lead up to the Easter break 3 :

Amazing views
Amazing pools
Countryside
Private rooms

Easter is one of the best times to travel either domestically or to get away overseas. Whether you’re looking for a long weekend getaway to the beach with friends, or a country jaunt with a loved one, Airbnb can provide the perfect option for any group looking to connect and unwind over the four day holiday. One of the benefits Airbnb offers is allowing families and group travellers to have the space, amenities and privacy for a truly relaxing break. With affordability an ongoing consideration for many travellers, not only are the trending categories of camping, cabins and private rooms unsurprising, splitting the cost of a luxe home between several groups can make that dream beach house with a private pool a reality for many this Easter. Easter is also a great time for people to consider becoming a Host. New and existing Airbnb Hosts provide a vital lifeline to regional areas providing greater accommodation capacity, whilst offsetting their own rising living costs. Susan Wheeldon, Airbnb Country Manager for Australia and New Zealand

New Zealand

As the Easter holidays approach, Airbnb has revealed the top travel locations Kiwis are searching and the types of accommodation they’re after.

Easter getaways to destinations just a road trip away are most desirable with Cromwell, Waihi Beach and Wellington all featuring in the list of the most popular search locations on Airbnb.

A selection of the top trending domestic Kiwi Easter holiday destinations 4 :

Coromandel, Waikato
Cromwell, Otago
Waihi Beach, Bay of Plenty
Rotorua, Bay of Plenty
Mangawhai, Northland
Picton, Marlborough
Raglan, Waikato

For those looking to maximise the Easter break, searches for international destinations are also proving popular, with significant year on year growth. Australia, South Africa and the UK were all among the most searched locations.

A selection of the top trending international Easter holiday destinations 5 :

Noosa Heads, Queensland, Australia
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
Greater London, England, United Kingdom
Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Brisbane City, Queensland, Australia

With beach stays always popular before the weather gets too cool, data shows many Kiwis are also looking for more cost effective and unique options for the long weekend, with the likes of tiny homes, cabins and camping all within the most searched categories.

The top 10 categories searched in the lead up to the Easter break 6 :

Maps of the April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

By Jonathan Corum

On April 8, the moon will slip between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow across a swath of North America: a total solar eclipse.

By cosmic coincidence, the moon and the sun appear roughly the same size in the sky. When the moon blocks the glare of the sun, the sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, will be briefly visible.

Below are several maps of the eclipse’s path as well as images of what you might experience during the event.

Where Can I See the Total Eclipse?

The eclipse will begin at sunrise over the Pacific Ocean, then cut through Mexico and cross the United States from Texas to Maine. Most of North America will see a partial eclipse, but viewers within the deepest shadow — a band sliding from Mazatlán, Mexico, to the Newfoundland coast near Gander, Canada — will experience a total solar eclipse.

Percentage of

the sun obscured

during the eclipse

Indianapolis

Little Rock

San Antonio

Viewers inside the path of the total eclipse may notice a drop in temperature , a lull or shift in the wind , the appearance of bright planets in the sky, and the quieting of birds and other wildlife.

Many cities lie inside the path of the total eclipse, as shown below, the width of which varies from 108 miles to 122 miles.

5:13 p.m. NDT

20% partial eclipse

NEWFOUNDLAND

SASKATCHEWAN

Fredericton

4:33 p.m. ADT

3:26 p.m. EDT

3:20 p.m. EDT

Minneapolis

3:18 p.m. EDT

3:13 p.m. EDT

San Francisco

90% partial eclipse

3:05 p.m. EDT

Los Angeles

1:51 p.m. CDT

1:40 p.m. CDT

1:33 p.m. CDT

12:16 p.m. CST

12:12 p.m. CST

11:07 a.m. MST

Mexico City

EL SALVADOR

12:23 p.m. CST

1:36 p.m. CDT

3:09 p.m. EDT

3:27 p.m. EDT

Explore our interactive cloud outlook for eclipse viewing times and average cloud data at your location.

What Will I See?

A composite image of the 2017 total solar eclipse over Madras, Ore.

A composite image of the 2017 solar eclipse over Madras, Ore.

Aubrey Gemignani/NASA

If the sky is clear, viewers in the path of the total eclipse should see a “diamond ring” effect a few seconds before and after the total eclipse, as the edge of the sun slips in and out of view.

The sun’s corona during the 2017 total solar eclipse.

The “diamond ring” effect during the 2017 solar eclipse.

Rami Daud/NASA, Alcyon Technical Services

The sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, is normally hidden by the sun’s glare. These tendrils and sheets of gas, heated to a million degrees Fahrenheit or more, are in constant motion and shaped by the sun’s swirling magnetic field.

The sun’s corona during the 2017 solar eclipse.

The sun is relatively active this year and is nearing the expected peak of its 11-year solar cycle . Researchers at Predictive Science are using data about the sun’s magnetic field to predict and model a dramatic corona for the April eclipse.

A prediction of how the sun’s corona might appear on April 8.

A prediction of how the sun’s corona might appear during the April 8 total eclipse.

Predictive Science

What Colors Should I Wear?

As the sky darkens, light-sensitive cells in human eyes become more sensitive to blue and green hues than to reds and oranges. This shift in color perception is known as the Purkinje effect , after a 19th-century Czech scientist, and is typically seen at twilight.

People watch the 2017 total eclipse at Southern Illinois University.

Watching the 2017 total eclipse at Southern Illinois University.

Andrea Morales for The New York Times

To take advantage of the Purkinje effect, wear green clothes or a contrasting combination of greens and reds. Blue-green colors (shorter wavelengths) will appear brighter, while red colors (longer wavelengths) will appear to recede into the darkness.

What If I Miss It?

The next two total solar eclipses in the United States won’t occur until 2044 and 2045 . But eclipse chasers might catch one in 2026 in Greenland, Iceland and Spain; 2027 along the coast of Northern Africa; 2028 in Australia and New Zealand; or 2030 across Southern Africa and Australia.

A Total Solar Eclipse Is Coming. Here’s What You Need to Know.

These are answers to common questions about the April 8 eclipse, and we’re offering you a place to pose more of them.

By Katrina Miller

What’s the Cloud Forecast for Eclipse Day? See if the Weather Is on Your Side.

April 8 could be your best opportunity to see a total solar eclipse for decades. But if clouds fill the sky, you may miss the spectacle.

By Josh Katz, K.K. Rebecca Lai and William B. Davis

Share full article

Our Coverage of the Total Solar Eclipse

Hearing the Eclipse: A device called LightSound is being distributed to help the blind and visually impaired experience what they can’t see .

Maine Brac es Itself : Businesses and planning committees are eager for visitors, but some in remote Aroostook County are not sure how they feel about lying smack in the path of totality.

A Dark Day for Buffalo: When the sky above Buffalo briefly goes dark on the afternoon of April 8, the city will transcend its dreary place in the public consciousness — measured as it so often is by snowstorms — if only for about three minutes. The city can’t wait.

Under the Moon’s Shadow: The late Jay Pasachoff, who spent a lifetime chasing eclipses , inspired generations of students to become astronomers by dragging them to the ends of the Earth for a few precarious moments of ecstasy.

A Rare Return: It is rare for a total solar eclipse to hit the same place twice — once every 366 years on average. People in certain areas will encounter April 8’s eclipse about seven years after they were near the middle of the path of the “Great American Eclipse.”

A Small City’s Big Plans: Let the big cities have their eclipse mega-events. In Plattsburgh, N.Y., success looks different for everyone stopping to look up.

No Power Outages: When the sky darkens during the eclipse, electricity production in some parts of the country will drop so sharply that it could theoretically leave tens of millions of homes in the dark. In practice, hardly anyone will notice a sudden loss of energy.

IMAGES

New Zealand Travel Guide
How Does Australia Compare to New Zealand?
Why Travel to Australia and New Zealand? Anzcro Blog
Travel Guide to New Zealand & Australia
Australia
Australia and New Zealand Tours

COMMENTS

Combining Australia and New Zealand
Combining Australia and New Zealand in the same trip lets you experience wildly contrasting topographies and ecosystems within the space of a few weeks. And, thanks to constantly improving flight connections, it's easier than ever to travel between the two. It's natural you might want to visit Australia and New Zealand in one go: they're ...
Combining New Zealand and Australia: Insider's Guide to the Best Trip
Cheap thrill There are countless places to enjoy star-studded Southern-Hemisphere skies—from New Zealand's Southern Alps (the South Island's Aoraki Mackenzie region is home to an International Dark Sky Reserve) to Australia's vast outback.Time your stargazing right and you may even catch the spectacular Southern Lights (Aurora Australis).
Australia and New Zealand Tour Packages
From discovering the sacred artwork of the Aboriginals in Australia, to seeing the soul-stirring rituals of the Maoris in New Zealand, these islands are filled with endless pinch-me moments. Travel with us and unlock the infinite possibilities thanks to our exclusive Trafalgar Highlights. Save up to $730. 4.2.
Australia and New Zealand
Australia New Zealand Anniversary Trip: Luxury and Adventure. Experience luxury and adventure in some of Australia and New Zealand's most unique, unspoiled landscapes. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, kayak with fur seals, explore the Australian rainforest, and heli over the stunning Milford Sound. 17 days.
The Best of Australia & New Zealand
Day 3: Auckland - Waitomo - Hobbiton - Rotorua Glowworm caves. Depart Auckland and travel south towards Waitomo. Your first stop is the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where you'll take a 45-minute guided tour through the underground caverns alongside stalactites, stalagmites, and other limestone structures formed over millions of years.
Combining Australia and New Zealand
Perth. Queenstown. You have lots of options for flying between and Australia and New Zealand. Flight times are relatively short (it's three hours from Sydney to Auckland, the same amount of time it takes to fly from Sydney to Uluru). You're not restricted to the major gateway cities of Auckland, Sydney, Queenstown and Melbourne, either.
New Zealand country guide
Australia & Pacific. Get ready for mammoth national parks, dynamic Māori culture and world-class surfing and skiing. New Zealand can be mellow or action-packed, but it's always epic. ... How to travel to New Zealand with points and miles in 2024. Mar 15, 2024 • 17 min read.
Welcome to New Zealand
Welcome to New Zealand. Get official travel information, maps, itineraries, activities & accommodation to help you plan your next holiday to New Zealand.
The Best Travel Guide to New Zealand [2024]
An Intro About New Zealand. Location: New Zealand is a country in the Oceania continent.It's located in the South Pacific Ocean, about 1,500km (930 miles) east of Australia and around 1,000km (620 miles) south of the South Pacific Islands.See Where is New Zealand? for more information.. Size: 268,021km 2 (103483 mi 2) in total.It is approximately 1,600km (990mi) long and around 400km (250mi ...
Australia & New Zealand Tours: Trip & Vacation Packages
Discover the highlights of Australia and New Zealand with National Geographic on this epic trip & tour package with our expert guides.
9 things to know before going to New Zealand
Introducing New Zealand. 2. It's okay to dress down. Casualness rules in New Zealand, even in urban areas. Depending on what region you're in, even a wedding might see some Kiwis in jeans, their cleanest bush shirt (a tough woolen shirt) and gumboots (rubber boots) or jandals (flip flops). This is unremarkable.
Guide to travelling to New Zealand
Getting around New Zealand. Whether you want to self-drive, fly, join a tour, or hop on a bus or train, there are plenty of options for getting around New Zealand. Find out what's best for you with our practical advice on travel and transport in New Zealand. Find more transport options >.
Australia and New Zealand Cruises
Cruises to Australia and New Zealand. From jaw-dropping natural wonders to colorful local traditions, cruising to the land Down Under will thrill your senses. Australia entices with every imaginable landscape, from its rugged Outback and fascinating Aboriginal culture, to its world-famous Great Barrier Reef and lively cosmopolitan cities.
Should you visit Australia or New Zealand?
New Zealand is the country for lovers of nature, who also value a proper coffee (whether Australia or NZ invented the "flat white" is a point of hot contention) or a quality drop of wine - ideally sampled at a cellar door restaurant with views of the ocean. When sailing the turquoise waters of the Bay of Islands in the tropical ...
Australia Travel
Travelers rate excellence across their entire travel experience, focusing on the categories below: ... Australia, the Outback & New Zealand. It should arrive in 7-10 days. 1/5. Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne. Each air-conditioned room features coffee- and tea-making facilities, cable TV, wireless Internet access, safe, and private bath with hair ...
New Zealand Travel Advice & Safety
Medical facilities and services are of a similar standard to those in Australia. New Zealand and Australia have a reciprocal healthcare agreement. This lets Australians access public medical facilities and care. However, there are some things it doesn't cover. Ensure you get comprehensive travel insurance. Full travel advice: Health
100% Pure New Zealand
Aotearoa New Zealand enjoys welcoming Australian manuhiri (visitors) to our beautiful country. Having a valid passport, the right visa and completing the entry requirements are key to a trouble-free entry into New Zealand. Your passport has to be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date, and if required, have a valid ...
Australia vs New Zealand: An Honest Comparison To Help You Choose!
In total, New Zealand's islands cover around 103,500 square miles of land (268,000 square km). NZ is therefore significantly smaller than Australia and has a smaller population of around 5 million people. Like Australia, New Zealand's population is diverse, made up of a mixture of indigenous Maori people and descendants of European settlers.
New Zealand Tour
Australia & New Zealand. Average group size of 30 travelers. Traveler Reviews (209) 81% Traveler Excellence Rating. Australia: Cairns, Great Barrier Reef, Sydney New Zealand: Te Anau, Arrowtown, Queenstown, Rotorua, Auckland. STARTING FROM $5,595.
New Zealand
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas. If you choose to drive a vehicle in New Zealand, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork. Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
New Zealand Travel Guide: Uncover the Beauty of the North and South
Travel requirements: Unless a New Zealand or Australian citizen, a valid passport is required. A visa or New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) may be required.
9 of the best places to visit in New Zealand
1. Queenstown. Best for adventure activities. New Zealand's adventure capital is a favorite with visitors and for good reason. On the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Queenstown 's location makes it one of the country's most sought-after places to work and play.
Score a Discounted Flight to Melbourne From One of These U.S. Hubs
The sale must be booked by April 8 and requires a 7-day minimum stay. It just got cheaper to visit the Australian city of Melbourne thanks to an Air New Zealand sale that has flights from the ...
Qantas sale from Australia to New Zealand: Airline's massive airfare
New Zealand has long been a popular holiday destination, with 1.26 million Australians travelling to the idyllic location in 2023, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. More Coverage
Qantas releases 100,000 cheap return flights to New Zealand
Travellers looking to explore New Zealand 's rugged landscapes, iconic adventure activities, and vibrant culture now have a bargain opportunity to do so. Qantas has released 100,000 seats on flights leaving for the beloved Aussie neighbour until February next year, for as low as $549 return. It's the national carrier's tenth sale of the ...
Airbnb reveals the top travel trends for Easter 2024
Susan Wheeldon, Airbnb Country Manager for Australia and New Zealand. New Zealand. As the Easter holidays approach, Airbnb has revealed the top travel locations Kiwis are searching and the types of accommodation they're after. Easter is a great time to take an extended trip, making the most of the four-day weekend.
Maps of the April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse
But eclipse chasers might catch one in 2026 in Greenland, Iceland and Spain; 2027 along the coast of Northern Africa; 2028 in Australia and New Zealand; or 2030 across Southern Africa and Australia.
King Charles 'tells aides to plan tour of Australia'
King Charles is said to have instructed his travel organisers to speed up plans for a royal tour of Australia in October. , who temporarily put on hold his first royal tour of the Commonwealth ...

Make Your Next Trip Extraordinary

Combining New Zealand and Australia: Insider’s Guide to the Best Trip

Tell us about the trip you want

Where should we send your personalized recommendation?

Get a Personalized Trip Recommendation

Best Times to Go

Worst Times to Go

Biggest Rookie Mistake

Can't-Miss Photo Ops

The Souvenirs

Must-have App

Airport Intel

Tipping Tip

Don’t Forget to Pack

Deep and rich micro-experiences...

Our Latest Newsletters

Be a Smarter Traveler

We may receive a referral fee from trip planners for trips designed for and purchased by travelers referred through us.

5 million happy guests and counting

Admire the Sydney Opera House

Visit the Franz Josef Glacier

Cruise to the Great Barrier Reef

Get lost in the gorgeous streets of Wellington

Enjoy a traditional Australian barbecue with a view on Uluru

Our top 5 things to do in Australia & New Zealand

The International Antarctic Centre

Australian National Maritime Museum

Museum of Sydney

Best museums in Australia & New Zealand

Best food in Australia & New Zealand

What to pack for Australia & New Zealand

All climate clothing

Versatile shoes

Reef-safe sunscreen

Get your free brochure

Award winning tours

Multiple-Destination Vacations

Australia and New Zealand

Sample Vacations

Australia New Zealand Golf: Great Golf Courses

Australia and New Zealand Highlights

Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji: Ultimate South Pacific Vacation

South Pacific Vacation Packages: Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti

Custom-Built Australia and New Zealand Fishing Vacation

Australia New Zealand Anniversary Trip: Luxury and Adventure

Australia and New Zealand Culinary Package

Combining Australia and New Zealand: questions to ask yourself

How much time do I have?

When do I want to go?

How many flights am I prepared to take?

How can I narrow down where I want to go?

Start planning your trip to Australia and New Zealand

Australia & New Zealand uncovered

Sydney to Auckland voyage with Silversea Cruises

Further reading

Plan your trip

Request our brochure, The World Your Way

Rental Period:

Pick-Up Location:

Drop-Off Location:

Coupon Override

Alaska Cruise Tours:

Cruises to Australia and New Zealand

Featured Deals

Airlie Beach from Brisbane Cruise

Australia Cruise

Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Queensland Voyage

New Zealand Voyage

Australia & New Zealand Cruise

New Zealand Discovery Cruise

New Zealand Holiday Cruise

The Sounds of New Zealand

Explore More Travel

Experience the Disney Difference

Save on Rental Cars

Search Smartraveller

New Zealand

Local emergency contacts

Advice levels