Its a really good idea to do some research before you travel to New Zealand to ensure you have a hassle-free holiday. Where to find visa information? What’s the local currency and how much does fuel cost? Here are your Visa & Travel Tips:
Visa Information
All visitors need to check if they need a visa before they get on the plane. Often, different countries deal with visas in their own way. Most of them ask you to apply for a visa, so that they can verify that you are a legitimate visitor. For New Zealand this is the case. To apply, however, is easy and fortunately available online.
Normally, there are different visa types, though in your case a simple visitor visum will do. Otherwise, if you intend to work in NZ, you might consider applying for a Working Holiday Visa (12 months).
For further information visit the New Zealand Immigration government website.
Fuel Costs
The price for fuel in New Zealand varies throughout the country.
Currently, the price for petrol is around $1.90 per ltr. In remote areas the network of petrol stations is thin and prices can be a significantly higher.
Insiders Tip: It is recommended that you fill up the tank when you arrive at larger towns or cities.
Currency and Banking
New Zealand’s currency is based on dollars and cents. Usually, you can pay with all major credit cards. Banks are open 9am – 4.30pm Monday to Friday.
ATMs for cash withdrawal are widespread.
Distance Calculator
You need to ensure you are riding realistic distances, so you don’t get worn out. For instance, you can look up your road trip with the AA distance calculator before you start your tour.
i-Site Visitor Centres
The i-SITE Visitor Centres know where to stay, what to do and how to get there. Travel experts at i-SITEs can also do bookings for you. These include accommodation, transport, activities and attractions.
they will also inform you about weather & mountain safety, travel itineraries and nearby events. Find the nearest i-Site branches on the offical website.
Internet
City centres of New Zealand’s more populated areas offer free wifi hot spots. Those include, for instance, Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin, Rotorua, Christchurch, Nelson, Wanaka or Queenstown. Most of the bigger supermarkets like New World, Countdown or Pack’n’Save offer free Wifi as well. Public libraries have a free access too, and of course a lot of books or DVDs for rent.
Another possibility is to use one of the “pay as you go” spots in the i-SITE Visitor Centres, in Holiday Parks or Internet Cafes.
Here are some self-guided motorcycle tours we’ve curated for you: 12 days North Island / 14 days South Island / 21 days North and South Island. 🏍️ Ready to explore New Zealand on two wheels?