Since colonial days, when New Zealand looked to Britain for cultural leadership, it has matured into a self-confident nation.

New Zealand is proud of its diverse population; while the majority of Kiwis are of British descent – often referred to as ‘Pakeha’ – many originate from the Pacific Islands or Asia. The largest non-European group is the Māori population. New Zealand’s blend of cultures results in a vibrant national identity; at its heart, it is about innovation, independence and celebrating diversity. Indigenous Māori culture is a strong element of cultural identity for all New Zealanders, Pakeha included. You only need to watch the haka being performed by the All Blacks before a rugby game to see how proud Kiwis are of their shared heritage! New Zealand’s Pacific location also lends a distinctive flavour to life in New Zealand; Auckland is informally regarded as the capital of the Pacific and colourful island culture is clearly evident at the Otara Markets, where you can buy tapa cloth and Cook Island donuts, and in events like the Pasifika Festival. And no trip to New Zealand is complete without experiencing the country’s unique, quirky Kiwiana.

Blending Māori, European, Pacific and Asian cultures, New Zealand has a rich multicultural identity and a diverse artistic tradition that ranges from Kiwiana kitsch to traditional Māori crafts and world-famous cinema.

Modern New Zealand uniquely combines this diverse mix of cultural and historical influences to create a national culture that’s all its own. In this section you can read a little more on the country’s fascinating contemporary culture, including its diverse range of artistic output and achievements in a range of arts fields such as film, music, cinema, and the visual arts.

Māori culture is not just a huge influence on the New Zealand arts scene but an absolutely integral part of New Zealand culture and society as a whole, and taking the time to explore its rich cultural traditions – in art, language, performance, food, and much more – is simply a must-do for any overseas visitor.

New Zealand has a relatively short human history but a fascinating one, and there’s plenty on offer in the country to pique the interest of history buffs, or those just curious about learning more about the past events in and development of this nation in isolation at the bottom of the world. Or cut straight to the chase with a quick rundown of New Zealand’s historical timeline.

Looking for the inside word on travelling in New Zealand? You'll find everything from New Zealand history to culture and nature, weather and seasons, and of course all the New Zealand highlights right here in Inspire Me.

New Zealand is blessed with an abundance of experiences, whether you’re a backpacker on a budget, enjoying a great family holiday or seeking a luxury escape. Discover is your passport to finding out everything you need to know, from what kind of weather to expect to understanding and experiencing Māori culture and getting up close and personal with New Zealand’s unique wildlife, including the rare kiwi bird. Thrillseekers looking to sample the best of white-knuckle New Zealand can choose from a raft of adventure activities, including bungy jumping and jet boating, while premium ski and snowboard areas and spectacular walking tracks offer less extreme great outdoors options. Want to sip some the world’s best wines and sample gourmet fare? You’ve come to the right place! Enjoy Marlborough’s Sauvignon Blanc in the vineyard with the winemaker and then dine on New Zealand’s lauded beef, lamb or ocean-fresh seafood. Those looking to scratch a shopping itch will find fantastic boutiques and galleries awaiting discovery and stocking everything from high-end fashion to Kiwiana kitsch. And you can’t leave without catching one of New Zealand’s iconic events – from Christchurch’s World Buskers Festival to the Queenstown Winter Festival, Wellington’s World of WearableArt and the Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta, there’s much to inspire.

While New Zealand does not usually suffer major climate extremes, the weather can be changeable. Pack layers and a raincoat. Seasons are in reverse of the Northern Hemisphere.

Spring

If you’re in New Zealand between September and November, you’ll be treated to a fantastic show of blossoms in Taranaki, Hamilton, or the ‘Garden City’ of Christchurch, among other places.

Best time Hit the slopes for spring skiing and snowboarding. Get in your city sightseeing before the summer heat really kicks in.

Summer

December to February is high season, and perfect for exploring the beaches and enjoying water sports in areas like the Bay of Islands, The Coromandel, Bay of Plenty, Nelson and Marlborough.

Best time Take your pick from a multitude of food, arts and sports events. Book ahead and take a Kiwi camping holiday.

Autumn

From March to May, summer crowds disperse but the weather usually remains settled and warm. In some places, the changing colours of the leaves are a spectacular sight.

Best time Hike the Great Walks while the weather is settled and crowds are smaller. Sample wine at the cellar door in harvest season.

Winter

June, July and August are perfect for skiing, but crisp days and a dusting of snow also make this a great time for viewing the South Island’s majestic scenery.

Best time Swim with dolphins – you can wear a wetsuit for warmth and the water is clearest during the winter months. Soak in a steaming geothermal hot pool nestled among a winter wonderland.

Are you a seasoned traveller keen to get off the beaten track and explore on your own terms, or would you prefer to sit back and enjoy the scenery and attractions while someone else takes care of all the details?

New Zealand has options for every traveller. Whether you’re after a romantic escape, family holiday, luxurious getaway, adventure-fuelled escape, backpacking bonanza, eco-friendly stay or a well-planned carefree tour, you’ll find everything you need to make it happen here.

Giving Back

‘Voluntourism’ is hot! When you’re in New Zealand, why not spend some time helping out the locals? Willing Workers on Organic Farms (WWOOF) provides the opportunity to learn sustainable practices and skills. Live with a Kiwi family and learn about companion planting, composting, worm farming, preserving and more. Or be part of a conservation project. New Zealand is a world leader in conservation and you can be part of a Kiwi success story by helping with bird monitoring or pest control with the Department of Conservation.

The Pacific nation of New Zealand is an exciting destination offering the perfect blend of sophisticated culture, fine food and wine, adventure activities and incredible wild places.

There are highlights in every corner of the nation, whether you’re travelling top to bottom or exploring one area in depth. Located in the South Pacific, New Zealand may look far away on the map, but it’s really just a flight away from some of the world’s major cities: Sydney, Los Angeles, Tokyo and Shanghai. And once you’re here, you’ll discover a technologically and socially advanced nation offering the facilities you’re used to at home – in a landscape that’s out of this world! The total land area is about 268,000 square kilometres – similar to the UK or Japan – yet the population is about 4.8 million (compared with about 127 million in Japan). As in most developed nations, the majority of people live in cities, meaning that vast areas are sparsely populated. In New Zealand, it’s easy to escape the madding crowd!

Aotearoa/New Zealand is home to a bewildering array of things to see, do and experience – here’s the highlight reel.

Incredible Landscapes

New Zealand’s spectacular landscapes range from rugged mountain ranges and forest-cloaked valleys to exquisite turquoise lakes and golden beaches.
Do it Absorb the extraordinary sight of Milford Sound.

Remarkable Wildlife

New Zealand will give you the chance to interact with wildlife that exists nowhere else on earth – from snow-dwelling parrots to the strange kiwi bird.
Do it Watch kiwi forage at a special nocturnal house.

Adventure Activities

Revel in the superb range of adventure activities on offer in incredible landscapes – from hiking and blackwater rafting to the extreme thrills of globe riding or skydiving.
Do it Summon all your courage and bungy jump!

Rest And Relax

Geothermal activity means an abundance of hot mineral pools around the country – many of them developed into enticing landscaped complexes and day spas.
Do it Indulge in a hot mineral pool followed by a Māori massage.

Sophisticated Society

Experience life among New Zealand’s melting pot of cultures and discover a modern, sophisticated society that’s open-minded and innovative.
Do it Explore the colourful capital of the Pacific, Auckland City.

Friendly Locals

In buzzing cities and in small country towns, enjoy a genuine Kiwi welcome from people known around the world as being honest, open and friendly.
Do it Do as the locals do and bond over a cold beer in a country pub.

Fascinating Culture

Learn the myths and traditions of the indigenous Māori people and experience a slice of New Zealand culture as it has been for hundreds of years.
Do it Join a guided marae visit and taste a traditional hāngi cooked underground.

Tantalising Cuisine

Sample the freshest produce from land and sea, prepared by innovative chefs, topped off with a premium local wine.
Do it Ask the locals where to find the best fish ‘n’ chips.

Renowned for jaw-dropping scenery and extreme adventure activities, New Zealand is also known for luxurious wilderness retreats, delightful cuisine, rich Māori culture and the down-to-earth friendliness of so many of its people.

It’s hard to sum up everything New Zealand has to offer in brief, but we can try! The New Zealand Snapshot section is designed to bring you up to speed with essential New Zealand basics.

New Zealand’s cities and regions offer a huge amount of variety for a relatively small island nation. There’s so much to explore, from the major urban centres with their buzzing after-dark scenes, cultural variety and killer shopping to jumping resort towns, peaceful, picturesque rural villages and a countryside that offers everything from farmland to wild rainforests, rugged and dramatic coastal landscapes, and majestic alpine scenery. And it’s all conveniently packaged in the one country! If you need the A-Z lowdown on New Zealand from accommodation to weather, you can jump straight into our index of handy essential information to find the answers to all those little frequently asked travel questions. With so much to see and do it can all be a little bit overwhelming up front! Don’t worry, though – Destination-NZ.com is on hand to help with our starting-point list of New Zealand’s absolute must-dos. You might also want to learn a little bit more about the character of the special place the Māori named “Land of the Long White Cloud“.

There’s many ways to approach your time in New Zealand – make your way down the country at your own pace, join an organised tour, hop around major centres, travel in luxury or enjoy the freedom of backpacking, or concentrate your trip around your interests – scenic highlights, adventure activities, food and wine, or much more. Take a look at our guide for suggestions on how to tackle your trip! Finally, you’ll find a quick and handy guide to what you can expect from the weather in the country of “four seasons in one day.”

Everything you need to know about New Zealand.

Accommodation New Zealand offers all standards, from hotels to backpacker hostels. Book in advance whenever possible, at least a day or two ahead. Always confirm bookings for accommodation if you are travelling during public or school holidays, particularly in the high season (December to February).

Airports Key international airports are located in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. Limited Australian flights land at Hamilton, Palmerston North, Queenstown and Dunedin.

Alcohol The legal age limit for consuming alcohol in New Zealand is 18. Anyone who looks under 25 years of age will be required to produce proof of age before buying alcohol.

Banks Banks are generally open during working hours from Monday to Friday, except on public holidays. All major credit cards are accepted and automatic teller machines (ATMs) are widely available in all but the smallest towns.

Business Infrastructure is of a high standard, with excellent telecommunications and transport. Business services are easy to find. Hotels may offer an in-house secretarial service.

Cities More than one quarter of New Zealand’s population lives in Auckland in the North Island. The capital is Wellington, located in the south of the North Island. Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island.

Climate The climate is temperate, except Northland, which is subtropical. Average maximum summer temperatures are 20 – 30°C and in winter, 10 – 15°C. The seasons occur in reverse of the Northern Hemisphere seasons. Outside of alpine areas, temperatures generally do not fall below freezing.

Clothing Conditions can change rapidly – always keep a sweater handy for sudden changes in weather. Rain can occur at any time, so bring a waterproof jacket, plus warm clothing for winter visits.

Currency New Zealand’s currency is the New Zealand dollar (NZ$), comprising coins of 10, 20 and 50 cents, $1 and $2; and notes of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100. Major credit cards can be used and travellers cheques are accepted at hotels, banks and some retail stores. Most banks are part of Cirrus or Plus.

Departure Tax Since July 2010 New Zealand departure tax has been included in the airline ticket price for those leaving New Zealand.

Disabled Access The law requires new buildings to provide access for people with disabilities, but check when booking. Obtain a parking concession with a mobility card or medical certificate. Visit Enable New Zealand at www.weka.net.nz.

Driving Visitors will need to provide their home country licence or obtain an International Driver’s Permit.

Duty Free Shopping Goods may be purchased at airport stores on arrival and departure, and downtown duty free stores will deliver purchases to airports.

Electricity Electricity is supplied at 230/240 volts (50 hertz). Most hotels also provide 110 volt a/c sockets (rated at 20 watts) for electric razors. For most other equipment an adaptor is necessary. Power outlets accept only flat 2- or 3-pin plugs. Use an RJ 45-type plug to connect your laptop to a computer socket and an adaptor with a flat 2- or 3-point plug to connect to the power supply.

Environment New Zealand is known as ‘clean and green’ for good reasons! A growing number of tourism operators are benchmarking with the globally recognised sustainable travel and tourism brand Green Globe New Zealand.

Etiquette New Zealanders are generally friendly, obliging and polite. They are egalitarian by nature and New Zealand has no formal class structure.

Gay and Lesbian Travellers New Zealanders are generally very accepting of homosexuality. The Human Rights Act 1993 makes it unlawful to discriminate on grounds of sexual orientation. [www.gaynz.com]

Goods and Services Tax All goods and services purchased in New Zealand are subject to 15% Goods and Services Tax (GST), which is included in the display price. Goods bought from duty free shops before departure are exempt from GST.

Health and Safety New Zealand is one of the world’s safest destinations, but basic safety precautions should be taken. New Zealand’s medical facilities operate to a high standard but services are not free, so purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Take care in the water [www.watersafety.org.nz] and when hiking, especially into remote areas. Ensure that you are appropriately equipped for the conditions. The sun is intense, so wear sunscreen. New Zealand has a relatively low crime rate, but please take sensible precautions such as keeping valuables out of sight and locking doors and vehicles, even in remote locations. In some areas it is inadvisable to walk alone late at night. In health and safety emergencies, dial 111 for ambulance, police or fire services. Doctors, dentists and 24-hour surgeries are listed in all regional telephone directories.

Insurance Most visitors are not eligible for publicly funded health services. Those covered by reciprocal health agreements with Australia and the UK are entitled to publicly funded health care for immediately necessary treatment only. Travel insurance is recommended.

Internet Internet access is widely available in internet cafés at an hourly charge, while free Wi-Fi is offered in many cafés and public libraries. Hotels often have internet access, including wireless access, for their guests’ use.

Language English is the major official language. Te Reo Māori is the second official language, and New Zealand Sign Language the third. New Zealanders are generally understanding if you do not speak English and will appreciate any effort made. Look online for English language courses. [www.englishnewzealand.co.nz]

Laptops Use an RJ 45-type plug to connect your laptop to a computer socket and an adaptor with a flat 2- or 3-point plug to connect to the power supply.

Māori Culture Go walking with a Māori guide, visit a marae or watch carving, weaving and traditional performance art. See Maori Culture for more.

Maps You can pick up regional maps from any of the visitor centres around the country and get directions from www.wises.co.nz.

Media New Zealand has AM and FM radio stations. RNZ National broadcasts news and weather on AM and FM (around 101 MHz FM). There are four major nationwide free-to-air TV networks and regional stations. SKY TV is the main pay-television operator. There are several major daily newspapers and many towns also have their own local newspapers.

Mobile Phones New Zealand has GSM digital networks only, having phased out CDMA, or analogue, networks. International mobile roaming is available with some providers.

Passports and Visas Passports are required for all visitors and must be valid for at least three months after the date the visitor intends to leave. Visas are not required for most visitors staying less than three months. For longer stays, a Visitor’s Visa may be required. For more information and to check requirements, visit the New Zealand Immigration Service website. [www.immigration.govt.nz]

Population New Zealand has a population of about 4.8 million people, mostly of British descent. New Zealand’s indigenous Māori make up around 15 per cent of the population. Other European cultures and people of Asian and Pacific Island descent have become an increasingly large proportion of the population.

Postal Service Post Shops (or smaller agencies run in conjunction with another business) are available in most centres. Most post shops open 9am to 5pm on weekdays. Some post shops are open from 9am to noon on Saturdays. [www.nzpost.co.nz]

Phoning Home A prepaid international calling card is usually the cheapest option, though you could rent or buy a cell phone for convenience and flexibility.

Prices New Zealand is a good value destination, particularly for visitors from Europe and the United States. Visitors can spend as little as NZ$65 per day or as much as they like. As a general rule, a main meal may cost NZ$15 to NZ$45. A night’s accommodation will cost anywhere from NZ$30 to NZ$300 and beyond.

Public Holidays There are trading restrictions on Christmas Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and before 1pm on Anzac Day. Banks generally close on public holidays, but many shops remain open. Confirmed bookings, especially for accommodation, vehicle rental and Cook Strait ferry sailings are essential if you’re travelling during public holidays. See here for a list of national and regional public holidays. Some establishments, such as cafés, may charge a holiday surcharge of 10 – 20 per cent.

Qualmark New Zealand tourism’s official mark of quality. Accommodation providers are rated on a star grading system. See the website to find out about the star grade definitions or to search tourism operators that carry the Qualmark. [www.qualmark.co.nz]

Regional Tourism New Zealand is home to a network of Regional Tourism Organisations (RTOs) that offer a wealth of visitor information about their region. Each maintains a region-specific website full of in-depth information for visitors. You’ll find the websites on the relevant regional pages in this guide.

Religion The population is predominantly Christian, but followers of many religions will find places of worship in cities and larger towns. New Zealand is accepting of many different religious beliefs.

School Holidays Although businesses usually don’t close during school holidays, attractions and popular holiday destinations may be busier than usual, so it is a good idea to book accommodation and transport ahead of time. The dates of holidays vary from year to year, so visit the Ministry of Education website for current information. [www.minedu.govt.nz]

Shopping In resorts and cities, shops are open seven days, 9am to 5pm, with late nights on Thursdays and Fridays. Smaller centres may have more restricted hours.

Smoking Smoking indoors is prohibited in all hospitality venues and public buildings in New Zealand. If you want to smoke, you will have to take your cigarette outside. The legal age limit for purchasing cigarettes in New Zealand is 18. [www.moh.govt.nz/smokefreelaw]

Telephones Public phones can be operated with phonecards purchased from convenience stores and information centres. Some public phones accept credit cards, but few accept coins. The international dialling code for New Zealand is +64. National area codes are listed in the front of phone directories. 0800 and 0508 numbers are free within New Zealand. 0900 numbers will incur an additional charge.

Time Differences New Zealand standard time is Greenwich Mean Time +12 hours; ahead of all other OECD countries. From the last Sunday in September to the first Sunday in April, New Zealand is on daylight saving time of GMT +13 hours. Find out the correct time and date at www.timeanddate.com.

Tipping Employees in New Zealand do not depend on tips for income. Tipping in appreciation of good service is at your discretion.

Vaccinations No vaccination certificates are required to enter New Zealand.

Visitor Information New Zealand has an extensive network of Visitor Information Centres providing visitors with free and comprehensive local knowledge to help you plan your trip – see Explore.

Walking Hiking opportunities range from 10-minute urban walks to multi-day alpine tramps. See Walking & Hiking.

Water Tap (faucet) water is fresh and safe to drink throughout the country. Water taken from rivers or lakes should be boiled or treated.

Weather Information See www.metservice.co.nz for weather information, tailored reports on New Zealand ski areas and official mountain forecasts. Alternatively, phone one of the MetPhone Mountain & Ski Info numbers listed: Central North Island 0900 999 15; Nelson Lakes 0900 999 02; Canterbury 0900 999 26; Southern Lakes 0900 999 81. Note that 0900 numbers incur a fee.

Weights and Measures New Zealand is metric, though people still use imperial measurements for distance, height and weight.

Websites Tourism New Zealand; Visitor Information; Weather; Maps: www.wises.co.nz.

There’s much to explore in New Zealand’s 28 regions and 13 cities. From buzzing city life with its killer shopping and dining through to sleepy country towns, lush countryside and rugged landscapes, you’ll find it all here – conveniently packaged in the one country!

Around the North Island

Auckland New Zealand’s main international gateway; the colourful and cosmopolitan ‘City of Sails’.

Bay of Plenty Beaches bathed in sunshine, vibrant towns and outdoor adventures on land and sea.

The Coromandel A rustic and unspoilt landscape boasting rich heritage, rainforest and a long coastline.

Gisborne & Eastland An authentic taste of coastal New Zealand life in the first part of the world to see the sun.

Hawke’s Bay Art Deco architecture and fine wine are the perfect blend in this pretty coastal region.

Manawatu Thriving contemporary culture complemented by rural New Zealand charm.

Northland & Bay of Islands Birthplace of a nation, blessed with pristine beaches and forests in a subtropical climate.

Rotorua A fascinating blend of Māori and European cultures in a remarkable geothermal area.

Ruapehu A trio of volcanoes watches over this central North Island region that’s home to some outstanding skiing.

Taranaki Explore dramatic surf coastline and an iconic mountain in a region steeped in history.

Taupo Lake Taupo is the epicentre of a region bursting with adventure and natural attractions.

Waikato & Waitomo Tranquil rolling hills and lush gardens complement unforgettable caving adventures.

Wairarapa A quintessentially New Zealand blend of rustic charm, rugged scenery and wineries.

Wellington Sophisticated and stylish, offering cultural experiences in a beautiful harbour setting.

Whanganui Gateway to a rich cultural history and magnificent river scenery.

Around the South Island

Central Otago A starkly beautiful landscape rich with gold-mining history and remarkable scenery.

Christchurch & Canterbury Outdoor adventures in a rugged landscape and the rich heritage of the South Island’s largest city.

Dunedin & Coastal Otago Intriguing history in a quirky university city famous for creativity and amazing wildlife encounters.

Fiordland Astonishing scenery and unforgettable wilderness experiences in a remote and pristine region.

Kaikoura Unforgettable marine life where the mountains meet the sea.

Lake Wanaka Outdoor adventures amid spectacular alpine scenery on the doorstep of Mt Aspiring National Park.

Marlborough Sparkling inlets, pristine forest and renowned wineries bathed in abundant sunshine.

Mount Cook & Mackenzie Astonishing blue lakes and soaring peaks abound in a beautiful alpine and rural landscape dotted with tranquil country towns.

Nelson & Abel Tasman Three national parks, golden beaches and turquoise water make this a natural paradise.

Queenstown Sparkling resort in an outdoor adventure playground against a stunning backdrop of a sparkling lake and rugged mountains.

Southland & Stewart Island A remote and beautiful region of rolling hills, rugged coastline and sparkling rivers in the far south.

Waitaki Both fascinating geology and historic architecture are to be found in the Northern Otago region.

West Coast An untamed coastal paradise bursting with remarkable scenery and rare native wildlife.