New Zealand
Travel Requirements
New Zealand travel requirements
If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, it’s important to know the travel requirements before you go. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for your journey:
COVID-19 Requirements
Covid-19 vaccines or testing requirements are no longer compulsory for travellers to New Zealand.
Visa requirements
Passport validity
If you are visiting New Zealand, your passport should be valid for 3 months from the date you arrive.
Check with your travel provider to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements.
Visas
Depending on the reason for your visit to New Zealand, you must apply for a specific type of visa or an NZeTA travel authorisation.
NZeTA
It allows citizens from the 60 countries in the Visa Waiver Programme to travel to New Zealand without the need to apply for a Visa Visitor. Simply by applying for the NZeTA online, these 60 nationalities can travel to New Zealand, and stay for a maximum of 3 months. The NZeTA travel authorisation has 2 travel options: transit and sightseeing.
NZeTA elegibility:
European Union citizens
Andorra
Argentina
Bahrain
Brazil
Brunei
Canada
Chile
Hong Kong
Iceland
Israel
Japan
South Korea
Kuwait
Liechtenstein
Macau
Malaysia
Mauritius
Mexico
Monaco
Norway
Oman
Qatar
San Marino
Saudi Arabia
Seychelles
Singapore
Switzerland
Taiwan
United Arab Emirates
United States of America
Uruguay
Vatican City
Health insurance
When traveling to New Zealand, it is crucial to have comprehensive health insurance that covers any medical expenses incurred while abroad. Although New Zealand has a high standard of healthcare, unexpected illnesses or accidents can still occur.
Having reliable health insurance ensures access to quality medical care without incurring significant financial burdens. It provides peace of mind knowing that you will receive the necessary treatment and assistance in case of an emergency.
In New Zealand, healthcare costs can be expensive, especially for foreign nationals. Without proper insurance, you may be responsible for covering medical expenses out of pocket, which can quickly accumulate and impact your travel budget.
Additionally, in the event of a severe medical condition or injury requiring specialized treatment or medical evacuation, having comprehensive health insurance becomes even more crucial. Medical evacuations can be costly, and insurance coverage can help mitigate these expenses.
By securing adequate health insurance coverage before your trip, you can travel with confidence, knowing that your well-being is protected. It ensures that you can focus on enjoying the breathtaking landscapes, engaging in thrilling activities, and immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of New Zealand without worrying about the financial implications of unexpected medical circumstances.
Don’t leave your health to chance while exploring New Zealand. Prioritize comprehensive health insurance to ensure a safe and worry-free journey.
Currency
New Zealand’s currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). It is relatively easy to exchange foreign currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and authorized Forex dealers located in tourist areas, major towns, and cities. The New Zealand Dollar is the accepted currency throughout the country.
US Dollars and Euros are also widely accepted in New Zealand, particularly by larger hotels, restaurants, and businesses that cater to tourists. However, it is advisable to carry smaller denomination notes as larger bills may not always be accepted, or you may receive a lower exchange rate for them.
When it comes to using credit cards in New Zealand, major international cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it’s important to carry some cash as well, especially for smaller businesses, local markets, or in more remote areas where card payments may not be readily available.
To obtain New Zealand Dollars, you can exchange your foreign currency at banks, Forex bureaus, or withdraw cash from ATMs using your debit or credit card. It’s advisable to inform your bank of your travel plans in advance to ensure uninterrupted access to your funds while abroad.
Carrying a combination of local currency and some US Dollars or Euros can provide flexibility and convenience during your travels in New Zealand, allowing you to comfortably handle various payment situations.
Culture and Etiquette
New Zealand is a culturally diverse country with a rich heritage, and it is important to respect local customs and traditions while visiting. New Zealanders, also known as Kiwis, are generally welcoming and friendly, and they appreciate visitors who show an interest in their culture and way of life.
When interacting with locals, a friendly handshake is a common form of greeting. Using appropriate titles such as Mr., Mrs., or Ms., followed by their last name is customary. Māori cultural customs may involve a hongi, which is a traditional Māori greeting involving the pressing of noses and foreheads.
Modest clothing is generally expected, especially when visiting sacred or religious sites. It is advisable to dress appropriately and avoid wearing revealing clothing. Public displays of affection should be kept to a minimum, as they are generally not commonly displayed in public.
When visiting someone’s home or a local community, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering as a sign of respect. It is also common to be offered food and drink during visits, and it is polite to accept these offers to show appreciation for local hospitality.
During meals, it is customary to eat with your right hand and avoid pointing your feet towards others, as it is considered disrespectful in New Zealand culture.
By demonstrating respect for local customs and practicing basic cultural etiquette, visitors can enhance their experience in New Zealand and foster positive interactions with the local population. Embracing and understanding the cultural diversity of the country will enrich your journey and create meaningful connections with the people you encounter.
Travel details
Maximum visit: 3 months within a vality of 2 years Multiple entries: yes Processing: in 72 hours Requires: Passport, return flight, being in a good health condition and have enough funds You do not need to show a COVID vaccination certificate or negative COVID test to enter New Zealand.