New Zealand Holidays FAQs

Before you travel

How do I book a holiday to New Zealand?

Our team of New Zealand Experts have years of experience creating tailormade holidays to New Zealand. Call us today on 0800 270 0069 to start planning your tailormade holiday to New Zealand.

 

How do I get to New Zealand from the UK?

The most convenient way to travel to New Zealand is by flight, with many journeys including transit stops in Asia or Dubai.

 

How long should I spend in New Zealand for a holiday?

A typical trip lasts between 10 to 14 days, allowing you to explore both the North and South Islands. If you want to see the main highlights, 2 weeks is ideal. For a more leisurely pace, 3 weeks or more is perfect.

 

How do I travel around New Zealand?

There are many ways to explore New Zealand’s diverse landscapes. You can drive between destinations by car or motorhome, or you may choose a scenic train journey on the Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific, and TranzAlpine. Alternatively, internal flights are available to travel between destinations quickly and comfortably, all while enjoying New Zealand’s stunning scenery.

The best time to visit New Zealand depends on what you want to do, as the country offers something special in every season:

 

When is the best time to visit New Zealand?

By Season:

Spring (September–November): A great time for fewer crowds, blooming flowers, and mild weather — ideal for hiking and exploring nature.

Summer (December–February): The warmest and most popular time to visit. Perfect for beaches, outdoor adventures, and road trips, but expect higher prices and more visitors.

Autumn (March–May): Pleasant temperatures, beautiful fall colours (especially in Central Otago and Hawke’s Bay), and generally quieter travel conditions.

Winter (June–August): Best for skiing and snowboarding in Queenstown, Wanaka, and Mt Ruapehu, plus dramatic scenery and fewer tourists.

In general, the best time to visit is spring (September–November) or autumn (March–May) — when the weather is good, the scenery is stunning, and it’s less crowded.

 

Do I need a visa to visit New Zealand?

Yes, all UK Passport holders require to have a visa to enter New Zealand on holiday. The NZeTA can be applied for online, for more details visit our dedicated NZeTA page. 

 

What can I expect upon arrival in New Zealand?

Upon arrival into New Zealand all passengers will be required to fill out the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD). This is in addition to your NZeTA and can be applied for online.

Traveling by air or sea, the earliest you can complete this form is 24 hours prior to the start of your trip to New Zealand and must be submitted by the time you reach border control.

 

How much does it cost to go to New Zealand?

There’s no fixed price for our New Zealand holidays, as every trip is tailor-made. The cost will depend on factors such as how long you stay, the standard of accommodation, and the experiences you choose. Our New Zealand Experts will design an itinerary to match your budget and preferences.

New Zealand – Local Handy Information

What currency is used in New Zealand?

The local currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.

 

What language is spoken in New Zealand?

English is the main language spoken in New Zealand. Maori language of the Indigenous People of New Zealand is also widely spoken you may see if on signage throughout your trip.

 

What type of plugs do they use in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, the standard plug type is Type I. These plugs have two flat, angled pins in a V shape, along with a third grounding pin.The voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz, traveling from the UK, you will need an adapter.

 

What’s the time difference in New Zealand?

The time difference between the UK and New Zealand depends on the time of year due to daylight saving changes:

During New Zealand Standard Time (NZST), which is from early April to late September, New Zealand is 12 hours ahead of the UK.

During New Zealand Daylight Time (NZDT), which is from late September to early April, New Zealand is 13 hours ahead of the UK.

 

What’s the weather like in New Zealand?

New Zealand's weather is highly variable due to its diverse geography, but generally, it has a temperate maritime climate, meaning it experiences moderate temperatures year-round, with some variation based on location and season. Here's a general breakdown:

North Island (e.g., Auckland, Wellington)

• Summer (December–February): Warm, with temperatures between 20–30°C .It's a great time for outdoor activities.
• Winter (June–August): Mild, with temperatures ranging from 10–15°C. It can get cooler in the evenings but rarely reaches freezing.

South Island (e.g., Queenstown, Christchurch)

• Summer (December–February): Pleasant temperatures between 18–25°C. Though it can be cooler in the mountains and coastal areas.
• Winter (June–August): Cold, especially in alpine areas. Temperatures can drop to -5°C in mountainous regions and range from 5–15°C in lower-lying areas. Snowfall is common in the mountains.

West Coast (e.g., Franz Josef, Westport)

• Rain: This region is one of the wettest parts of New Zealand, with rainfall being consistent throughout the year.
• Summer: Temperatures around 15–22°C.
• Winter: Temperatures drop to 5–12°C and snow can occur in the mountains.

 

What side of the road do they drive on in New Zealand?

In New Zealand they drive on the left side of the road. The same as the UK and signs are displayed in KPH.

 

Can I drive in New Zealand with a UK drivers licence?

Yes – UK driving licences are valid in New Zealand for tourism purposes. You must always carry your licence.

After you have booked

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance to cover medical costs, cancellations, and unexpected events. We recommending getting your travel insurance in place when you pay your deposit.

 

When is the balance of my holiday due?

Your balance is due 16 weeks prior to departure. This is stated on your booking confirmation that you receive at the time of booking and we issue an email reminder prior to the due date. You can pay instalments at any time by logging on to manage my booking or calling the Stewart Travel team and paying over the phone. You can pay by debit or with credit card with no extra charges, we do not accept American Express.

 

When will I receive my tickets?

You will receive your tickets 2-3 weeks prior to departure, for our tailor-made trips you will receive you documents in the post, if you have booked an escorted tour the tickets will be sent by email. It is important you thoroughly read all the details we send to you.

Please see our dedicated Travel Documents Page for more information.