6 Tips To Keep In Mind When Traveling To New Zealand

New Zealand is famous for its stunning natural beauty. Fast becoming a top travel destination, it is full of amazing things to see. However, like most travel destinations, a bit of planning is sure to make your trip a lot easier. So, here are some New Zealand travel tips to make the most of your trip.

# Look out for i-Sites

Almost every town and city has its own “i-Site,” a tourist centre where you can find maps, brochures, and essential details about that location. It is also the perfect place to book tickets for tours and to look for some general travel advice.

# Carefully check which season you’re visiting in

New Zealand lies in the southern hemisphere and thus has different seasonal times. Most people visit during the summer months (Dec-Feb), but this can be both crowded and expensive. Autumn (Mar-May) is also a good time to visit, as it is temperate but not cold, though Spring (Sept-Nov) tends to be windy and chilly. Winter (Jun-Aug) is perfect for those looking to explore the country’s skiing destinations (such as Mount Ruapehu in the North; Mount Cook and Mount Aoraki in the South) and its breathtaking glaciers.

# Still, plan for all weather conditions

While the climate here is generally mild, you can still experience pretty extreme weather fluctuations in a single day. This is especially true of some locations that manage to pack in all four seasons in this short span of time! A sunny sky can turn quickly into a hail storm – so be prepared! Make sure to wear layers and pack a jacket, no matter the time of year.

# Always book well in advance

New Zealand is a popular destination that’s getting more and more attention. So, accommodations are often fully booked months before the high season. Be sure to make your bookings in advance to both reserve a room, and to save money.

# You can go freedom camping, but there are rules

Freedom camping, or free camping, lets travellers put up tents or campervans almost anywhere across the countryside. Just remember that you must clean up after yourself and respect any signs that are posted.

# It can take quite long to travel between places

While New Zealand looks quite small on the map, the country’s roads can take quite a long time to traverse. Strong winds, narrow, winding roads, and hilly terrain can all delay your journey, as can one-way bridges. So always plan for extra time when travelling by road.