Oceania
New Zealand
New Zealand splits across two islands and rewards a road trip - renting a vehicle is the norm, and much of the appeal is in the driving itself. Payment is overwhelmingly card and contactless. Most visitors need an electronic travel authority before arrival, and there's a tourism levy bundled with it, so confirm the current requirements for your nationality ahead of time. The one planning trap is distance: the drive times between scenic stops run longer than the map implies, so pad the itinerary.
Last updated May 2026
Money & Payments
Currency
NZ$
New Zealand Dollar
NZD
Cash Tip
Cards are universally accepted across New Zealand, with contactless payments being the standard.
Cash is useful at local markets, smaller rural businesses, and remote stops.
Cash amounts of NZD 10,000 or more must be declared upon arrival.
Card Rating
How widely cards and contactless payments are accepted
9 / 10.0
Contactless credit and debit card payments, alongside mobile options like Apple Pay and Google Pay, are standard across commercial establishments and automated services. Cash is rarely required except at select local markets or remote rural stops.
Daily Budget
Estimated daily costs per person
Budget
Meals & Transit
NZ$65–NZ$115
Supermarket self-catering, freedom camping, hitchhiking.
≈ $35–$65
Meals & Transit
NZ$65–NZ$115
≈ $35–$65
Supermarket self-catering, freedom camping, hitchhiking.
Accommodation
NZ$35–NZ$50
Hostel dorm beds, capsule hotels, or basic guesthouses with shared facilities.
≈ $21–$31
Accommodation
NZ$35–NZ$50
≈ $21–$31
Hostel dorm beds, capsule hotels, or basic guesthouses with shared facilities.
Mid-Range
Meals & Transit
NZ$115–NZ$190
Café meals (NZ$20–40), rental car, DOC hut passes for Standard Walks. Advance booking is required for Standard Walks tracks.
≈ $70–$115
Entry & Documents
Visa Requirements
Check entry requirements for your passport
Select your passport to view visa requirements.
On the Ground
Power & Plugs
Voltage, frequency, and plug types
Type I230V50Hz
Bring a universal travel adapter to stay powered up regardless of plug type.
SIM Card Guide
Stay connected while traveling
Typical price range
NZ$25–NZ$50
≈ $15–$30 USD
Validity: 28-day tourist SIM
Practical Info
Apps & Getting Around
Essential apps and transport info
Transport
- UberForeigner-friendly
Available in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin, and Queenstown. Accepts foreign cards. Main mode of rideshare in NZ cities.
- New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD)Foreigner-friendly
Mandatory pre-arrival declaration covering customs, immigration, and biosecurity. Submit within 24 hours before departure. Free at travellerdeclaration.govt.nz.
Other
- MetService WeatherForeigner-friendly
New Zealand's official meteorological service. Essential for Fiordland and alpine areas where weather changes rapidly. Mountain weather can be extreme even in summer.
Navigation
- Google MapsForeigner-friendly
Before You Go
Rules & Restrictions
Important laws and customs to be aware of
Always verify current laws before travel. Laws can change and penalties vary.
Legal
- New Zealand has extremely strict biosecurity rules. Any food, plant material, or animal products must be declared on the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD). Fines up to NZD $400 on the spot, or prosecution with fines up to NZD $100,000 for serious breaches. Detector dogs operate at all international airports.
- The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD 35 applies to most visitors - payable as part of the NZeTA or visa application. It funds conservation and tourism infrastructure.
- Drug laws: Cannabis was not legalised in the 2020 referendum. Possession remains illegal. Importation of any controlled substance is a serious criminal offence.
Cultural
- Māori culture is an integral part of New Zealand's national identity. Treat all sacred sites (marae, wāhi tapu) with respect. Always ask permission before entering a marae. When offered a pōwhiri (formal welcome), follow the lead of your host. The hongi (pressing of noses) is a traditional greeting - wait to be invited.
- The natural environment is a source of great national pride. New Zealand has extremely low tolerance for littering, pollution, or damage to conservation areas. The 'leave no trace' ethic is taken seriously. Quad bikes, campervans, and freedom camping are regulated - check local council rules.
Health
- New Zealand's healthcare is excellent. As an Australian, UK, or certain other nationality citizen, you may be eligible for reciprocal healthcare (ACC covers accident treatment for all visitors). Otherwise, travel insurance is strongly recommended - especially for adventure activities (bungy jumping, skydiving, skiing).
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