Planning Your New Zealand Trip
Find answers to the most common questions about planning a New Zealand holiday, including the best time to visit, weather, public holidays, school holidays, daylight hours, and choosing between the North and South Islands.
- Should I Visit New Zealand’s North or South Island
- What Will New Zealand Weather Be Like On My holiday?
- When Are New Zealand School Holidays?
- What Time Does the Sun Rise and Set on a New Zealand Holiday?
- When Is the Best Time to Come to New Zealand?
- What Are the Must-Do Experiences in New Zealand?
- What Do Travellers Need to Know About New Zealand Public Holidays?
Accommodation
Learn about the different types of accommodation available throughout New Zealand, from hotels and motels to boutique lodges and luxury retreats.
Costs, Food & Dining
Understand what to budget for your trip, including food and dining costs, tipping customs, restaurant prices, and dietary considerations such as halal food availability.
Money, Currency & Credit Cards
Everything you need to know about spending money in New Zealand, including currency exchange, using credit cards, paying in New Zealand dollars, and shopping-related information.
- Should You Buy New Zealand Currency Before Arriving in New Zealand?
- Can You Use Credit Cards in New Zealand?
- Where Can I Convert Money to New Zealand Dollars in New Zealand?
- Can I Claim Goods and Services Tax (GST) on Purchases Made in New Zealand?
- Do New Zealand Guarantees or Warranties Apply Outside New Zealand?
- What Currency Can You Use in New Zealand?
Visa & Entry Requirements
Find information about New Zealand's entry requirements, including the NZeTA, International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL), and other important travel documentation.
Driving in New Zealand
Prepare for driving in New Zealand with advice on road rules, licensing requirements, speed limits, road conditions, and winter driving considerations.
Rental Cars
Get answers to common rental car questions, including vehicle types, fuel options, ferry travel, breakdown cover, and what's included with your rental.
- What Is the Minimum Age to Drive a Rental Car in New Zealand?
- Are Rental Cars in New Zealand Manual (Stick Shift) or Automatic?
- Does My New Zealand Rental Car Include Breakdown Cover?
- What Is Included With My New Zealand Rental Car?
- What Fuel Do New Zealand Rental Cars Use?
- Can Rental Cars Be Taken on the Interislander Ferry?
Coach, Rail & Non-Driving Tours
Explore alternatives to self-driving, including coach tours, rail journeys, independent coach travel, and guided touring options throughout New Zealand.
- Do Independent Coach Tours Include the TranzAlpine Train?
- Do Independent Coaches Have Toilets On Board?
- What Time Do Independent Coach Tours Depart?
- What Coach Tour Options Are Available in New Zealand?
- What Are Coaches and Buses Like in New Zealand?
- Can You Create a Tailor Made Coach Tour?
- How big are group tours in New Zealand?
Accessibility & Special Requirements
Discover helpful information for travellers with accessibility needs, including disability permits, mobility considerations, and support available while travelling in New Zealand.
Packing, Power & Practical Travel Tips
Useful travel tips and essential information to help you prepare for your holiday, including what to pack, electricity and power requirements, luggage allowances, airport information, and local regulations.
Making a Reservation
Learn how to book your New Zealand holiday, including reservation processes, deposits, tailor-made itineraries, group travel, and booking through a travel agent.
- How Do I Plan a New Zealand Trip With Friends and Family?
- How Much Deposit Do I Need to Pay?
- How Do I Reserve My New Zealand Self-Drive Holiday?
- Can I Book My New Zealand Tour Through my Local Travel Agent?
- Can International Travellers Book a New Zealand Coach Tour?
- What Information Do I Need to Provide When Booking?
Payments & Pricing
Find information about payment options, payment schedules, pricing, additional costs, secure transactions, and managing your booking payments.
- Are My Payments Safe and Secure?
- Are There Additional Charges for Paying by Credit Card?
- Can I Pay Without a Credit Card?
- Can I Pay for My Trip in Another Currency?
- How Do I Make a Payment on My Trip?
- Can I Use More Than One Credit Card to Pay for My Tour?
- Can I Make Part or Split Payments on My Outstanding Trip Balance?
- Are There Additional Costs I Need to Plan For on My Tour?
- When Do I Need to Complete Payment for My New Zealand Trip?
Travel Insurance, Changes & Cancellations
Understand your options for travel insurance, booking amendments, date changes, and cancellation policies before you travel.
Travel App & On-Trip Support
Access information about using the Fine Tours Group travel app and the support available before and during your New Zealand trip.