Yes. While your Discover New Zealand itinerary will include the accommodation, transport, and sightseeing outlined in your booking, you'll still need to budget for personal expenses such as meals not included in your itinerary, drinks, optional activities, fuel, and personal purchases.
One of the most common questions travellers ask is how much spending money they'll need while visiting New Zealand.
The answer depends on your travel style, but most visitors should allow for a combination of meals, personal purchases, and optional activities during their trip.
Your itinerary will clearly outline what is included and what is not.
What costs are usually included?
Your itinerary will specify exactly what is included in your holiday.
Depending on the tour, this may include:
- Accommodation
- Rental car hire or coach travel
- Domestic flights
- Selected sightseeing activities
- Scenic cruises
- Rail journeys
- Some meals
Your travel consultant will explain all inclusions before you confirm your booking.
What costs are not usually included?
Common additional expenses include:
- Meals not listed in your itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages
- Café and restaurant purchases
- Fuel for rental vehicles
- Optional activities
- Travel insurance
- Souvenirs and shopping
- Personal expenses
These costs vary significantly between travellers.
How much spending money should I allow?
As a general guide:
| Expense Type | Approximate Daily Budget |
|---|---|
| Budget traveller | NZ$75 to NZ$150 |
| Mid-range traveller | NZ$150 to NZ$300 |
| Higher-end traveller | NZ$300+ |
These estimates are intended as a guide only and will vary depending on your travel style and activity choices.
Should I budget for fuel?
If you're taking a self-drive holiday, yes.
Fuel costs will depend on:
- Vehicle type
- Distance travelled
- Fuel prices at the time of travel
Many visitors travelling between destinations such as Auckland, Rotorua, Christchurch, Queenstown, and Milford Sound find fuel costs are a relatively small part of their overall holiday budget.
Do I need cash?
Not much.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout New Zealand, and many travellers use cards for almost all purchases.
Carrying a small amount of New Zealand currency can be useful for occasional purchases, but there is rarely a need to carry large amounts of cash.
Should I budget for optional activities?
Yes.
Many travellers choose to add extra experiences during their trip.
Popular options can include:
- Scenic helicopter flights
- Jet boating
- Wine tours
- Wildlife encounters
- Guided walks
- Adventure activities
Your travel specialist can advise on likely costs for any experiences you're considering.
Need Help Budgeting for Your New Zealand Holiday?
Every traveller's budget is different. The cost of a New Zealand holiday can vary depending on the time of year, accommodation style, transport preferences, and the experiences you'd like to include.
Our travel specialists can help you create an itinerary that matches your budget while making sure you don't miss the places and experiences that matter most to you.
If you'd like personalised advice, contact our team.