Hotels, motels, backpackers, bed and breakfasts, camping grounds, and lodges from unadorned to luxury can be found throughout New Zealand. Booking is essential, especially in the high season October-April.
New Zealand Travel Offers all Types of Accommodation - Backpackers, Bed-and-Breakfasts and Camping Grounds
Most camping grounds are well-equipped with decent kitchens, laundries and clean ablution blocks. Camping grounds are often situated within a short walk of beaches, and may also be found in quite remote regions. There are excellent backpackers in most areas, many situated close to the CBD and near to public transport routes. Bed-and-breakfast facilities may be shared with the resident family, or visitors may have separate quarters. Travelers should clarify arrangements so that expectations are clear for both host and visitor.
New Zealand Food - NZ has Embraced the Cafe Culture
New Zealand has embraced the café culture, with numerous cafes serving diverse food styles. Ethnic outlets are well represented, as are the major fast food chains, e.g. KFC, McDonalds, Burger King, Starbucks. Traditional New Zealand food may be sampled in restaurants or as part of the tourism experience. An agricultural island-nation, New Zealand produces world-class wines, meats, dairy products, fruits and vegetables.
New Zealanders Drive on the Left Side of the Road
Rental vehicles can be collected at point of arrival, most frequently Auckland International Airport in the North Island, which receives flights daily from all points of the compass. New Zealanders drive on the left. The country has an efficient system of highways and byways with new sights unfolding at the turn of each corner. Visitors are often intrigued and sometimes discomforted by the narrow, winding roads in some areas. When traveling on these roads it is imperative to drive at the speed (or less) indicated by road signs and to keep to the left.
The Geothermal Wonderland: Geysers, Mud Pools, Hot Springs and Silica Deposits
New Zealand’s volcanic hinterland is a major attraction for visitors. Rotorua in the North Island is the tourism centre of thermal activity and is easily accessible by air or road. Geysers, mud pools, silica deposits and hot springs feature throughout the district. Rotorua is also a significant region for Maori culture and heritage, and there are several tourism operators who concentrate on this experience.
New Zealand Adventure Travel Includes Whitewater Rafting, Bungee Jumping and Jet-Boating
With 18,000km of coastline as well as many inland lakes and waterways, New Zealand has water-based activities to please travelers of all ages and abilities. The white-sand beaches of the east coast are perfect for sun-bathing, beach-combing, walking or a spot of fishing off the local wharf. Penguins gannets, whales, dolphins and other marine species can be observed in their natural environment. The more adventurous might choose whitewater rafting, sea or river kayaking, jet-boating, bungee jumping , 'swooping', or deep-sea diving. There are many other activities to test the mettle of the most timid or intrepid traveler including glacier or bush walks, golfing, horse treks, caving, or simply enjoying the sights.
Fact Bites
- Population: Approx 4,300,000 (approx 14 people per sq km)
- Main Language: English
- Driving: Left side of the road
- Electricity: 230 volts AC, 50 hertz, 3-pin appliance plug
- Currency: Decimal
- Banks: 9:00am – 4:30pm – may vary
- Retail: Most supermarkets and chain stores open seven days weekly
- Credit cards: Major credit cards accepted
New Zealand’s Climate is Variable: From Sub-Tropical to Below Freezing
New Zealand’s climate ranges from sub-tropical in the north, to temperate and below freezing in central and southern areas. Temperatures in some regions can change swiftly and travelers, especially hikers into bush country or mountainous areas, are strongly advised to be well-informed and well-prepared for sudden changes, even if only venturing on a day’s excursion.
Lyn Rasmussen - Lyn is a New Zealander who lives in the centre of New Zealand's Volcanic Wonderland. She has been recognised for her writing across ...
