Ideal Duration: 10-14 days for the North and South Islands' highlights; 3 weeks for a more extensive exploration
Currency: New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Best Time: November to February (Summer)
Accommodation Cost (per night in USD): Dorm bed: $15-30
Budget: $40-80
Mid-range: $100-200
Luxury: $250 and above
Budget for Food & Drinks (per day in USD): Budget: $15-30
Mid-range: $40-70
Visa Policy for Indians: eTA (Electronic Travel Authority) for short stays
Visa Policy for Other Nationals: eTA or Visa-Free for many countries
Getting In New Zealand: Auckland Airport (AKL), Christchurch Airport (CHC
Getting Around New Zealand: Cars, campervans, buses, domestic flights, and trains
New Zealand, an island nation in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, is famed for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and adventure opportunities. From towering mountains and pristine beaches to lush forests and geothermal wonders, New Zealand offers a diverse and unforgettable experience. Divided into two main parts, the North Island and the South Island, it is a country of stunning natural diversity and rich cultural heritage.
Rich in Maori culture, New Zealand, or Aotearoa as the locals call it, is a diverse mix of contemporary cityscapes and attractions that will take you back to New Zealand's past. The North Island and South Island, along with numerous smaller islands, provide a wide range of environments to explore. The North Island is known for its geothermal wonders, such as the bubbling mud pools and geysers of Rotorua, as well as the cosmopolitan cities of Auckland and Wellington.
The South Island is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and is home to the majestic Southern Alps, which offer world-class skiing and mountaineering. Fiordland National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its stunning fjords, including Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. The South Island’s clear lakes, such as Lake Tekapo, and the vibrant city of Queenstown, known as the world's adventure capital, offer endless outdoor activities, from bungee jumping and skydiving to hiking and biking.
New Zealand’s coastal beauty is equally impressive, with pristine beaches, rugged coastlines, and abundant marine life. The Bay of Islands in the North Island is a paradise for sailing, fishing, and dolphin watching, while the wild, windswept beaches of the West Coast in the South Island are perfect for exploring tide pools and sea caves. The country is also famous for its wildlife, unlike any other region in the world, with species found only on this island.
Being so down south in geography, the weather conditions of New Zealand are patchy and extremely unpredictable. Be prepared to endure all sorts of weather within a day! Culinary delights await in New Zealand, from world-renowned wines in regions like Marlborough and Hawke’s Bay to delicious seafood and farm-to-table dining. New Zealand’s blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness makes it a must-visit destination.
New Zealand is a country that offers something for everyone in all seasons, whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, family fun, relaxation, food and wine, or cultural experiences. Its diverse climate and stunning landscapes make it a great place to visit any time of the year. The best ti...
Friendly locals. Plenty of activities available. Beautiful scenery. Relaxed pace of life.
Average infrastructure. Minor earth tremors. Lot of sandflies. Strong, hot sun.
Sam Roberts
3 years ago