The Must-Have List Before Your New Zealand Vacation

NZeTA & IVL Levy

Mandatory

Most visitors from visa-waiver countries need a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before boarding. Apply via the official app (NZ$17) or online (NZ$23). A separate International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZ$100 per person is charged at the same time. Both are non-refundable and valid for up to two years. Allow up to 72 hours for approval — don’t leave this to the last minute.

Visa-waiver countries: Australian citizens and passport holders do not need an NZeTA or pay the IVL. If you are not from a visa-waiver country, you will need to apply for a standard Visitor Visa, which can take several weeks — check Immigration New Zealand’s website well in advance.

NZTD Arrival Declaration

It is free

The New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) is mandatory for every passenger, including infants and children. It covers customs, immigration, and biosecurity information. It is free and takes about 10 minutes. Complete it online at travellerdeclaration.govt.nz or via the NZTD app up to 24 hours before your flight departs — not on the plane.

Biosecurity Rules

NZ$400 fine

New Zealand enforces some of the world’s strictest biosecurity laws to protect its unique ecosystem. You must declare all food (including packaged snacks), plant material, animal products, and used outdoor equipment such as hiking boots or camping gear. Failing to declare a restricted item — even accidentally — results in an instant NZ$400 fine. When in doubt, declare it.

eGate

Fast, Automated Passport Control in New Zealand

New Zealand’s eGate system allows eligible travellers to complete passport control quickly and independently using secure facial‑recognition technology. It’s available at Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown international airports.

Who Can Use eGate

• Travellers 10 years or older
• Holders of an ePassport from eligible countries

Your Driving License

English licenses

Your valid home-country driver’s license is accepted in New Zealand for up to 12 to 18 months from your date of entry (12 months for motorcycles and trucks, 18 months for cars). You must carry your license with you whenever you drive. Being caught without it carries a NZ$400 infringement fee.

International Driving Permit (IDP)

Required if Non-English

If your license is not printed in English, you must also carry either a certified translation from an approved NZTA translator or an International Driving Permit (IDP). The IDP is simply a translation — it does not replace your original license. Apply for one through your national automobile association before you leave home.

Road Rules to Know

Left-Hand Traffic

New Zealanders drive on the left side of the road. The speed limit is 100 km/h (62 mph) on open roads and 50 km/h (31 mph) in towns. Rural roads are often narrow, winding, and single-lane. Take your time, especially after a long flight. Request a rental car with GPS or CarPlay/Android Auto navigation.

Rental Car Requirements

Age Requirement

The minimum age to rent a car in New Zealand is typically 21. Drivers under 25 may face additional fees. Major rental companies require a full driver’s license — provisional or learner licenses are not accepted. If your license is non-English, rental companies will likely require an IDP before handing over the keys.

Insurance tip: Driving without an accepted translation or IDP may void your rental car insurance in the event of an accident, in addition to the legal penalty. Sort your IDP before you depart — it takes minutes to apply for through your national automobile club.

NZ Dollars in Cash

Rural Areas

While cards dominate in cities, a small amount of New Zealand dollars in cash — around NZ$100 to NZ$200 — is useful for rural markets, roadside stalls, remote campsites, and smaller cafes. ATMs are easy to find in cities but scarce once you venture off the main highways. All prices include 15% GST (Goods and Services Tax) — no surprise charges at checkout.

Travel Money Cards

Save on Fees

Consider using a low-fee travel card such as Wise, Revolut, or your bank’s own travel debit card to avoid foreign transaction fees and unfavorable exchange rates. New Zealand is an expensive destination, especially for dining and accommodation. Using a fintech travel card can save meaningful amounts on a longer trip.

Tipping culture: Tipping is not expected or customary in New Zealand. The minimum wage is high, and service charges are included in listed prices. If service is exceptional, a tip is warmly appreciated, but it is never required or expected.

Chargers & Power Adapter

Adapter Required

Offline Maps & Apps

Download Before You Go

Prescriptions & Medication

Declare in NZTD

Bring a sufficient supply of any prescription medications for your entire trip, plus a buffer of a few extra days. You must declare any medication exceeding a three-month supply in your NZTD declaration. For controlled substances, carry a letter from your doctor explaining the prescription. Pharmacies (called chemists in New Zealand) are widely available in cities and larger towns.

Sunscreen SPF 50+

UV Risk: Very High

Reusable Water Bottle

Tap water in New Zealand is safe to drink everywhere — cities, small towns, and campgrounds alike. Carrying a reusable bottle means you can refill freely, save money, and avoid contributing to plastic waste in a country that takes environmental stewardship seriously.

Good news: Tap water is safe to drink across all of New Zealand. Bring a reusable water bottle and fill up freely — it saves money and reduces plastic waste on your trip.

Copies of All Important Documents

Insect Repellent

Native sandflies

New Zealand’s native sandflies (no-see-ums) are notorious — particularly on the West Coast of the South Island, in Fiordland, and around lakes and rivers. They leave intensely itchy bites. Pack a DEET-based or picaridin repellent and apply it before any outdoor activity near water or in bush areas.

Portable Power Bank

Keep your devices charged

Small Daypack or Dry Bag

Waking & Hiking