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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

New Zealand travel advice

Latest updates: Entry and exit requirements – added information on other requirements; Natural disasters and climate – added information on climate change

Last updated: September 17, 2024 07:16 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, new zealand - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in New Zealand.

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Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, especially in major cities. Theft generally occurs in the following places:

• hotel rooms
• tourist sites
• recreational areas
• unattended vehicles

Make sure that your belongings, including your passport, are secure at all times.

There is a threat of terrorism. Far-right domestic terrorists have carried out attacks in New Zealand, the most recent being the 2019 shootings in Christchurch at two mosques.

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

The Government of New Zealand maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates threat level changes online and through social media.

Local terrorism threat - New Zealand Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet

There is credit card and ATM fraud.

When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention if other people are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Adventure tourism

Adventure tourism, such as zip-lining, rock climbing or trekking, can be dangerous, especially if they are not well-organized. Trails are not always marked and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

Serious accidents have occurred in New Zealand and some activity operators have been accused of negligence.

Tour operators may not meet international standards.

If you are participating in adventure tourism, such as zip-lining, rock climbing, trekking, hiking, parasailing:

• obtain detailed information on the activity before setting out
• never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• make sure your travel insurance covers the recreational activities you choose
• make sure your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• make sure you’re well-equipped and informed about weather and other hazardous conditions
• consider purchasing or renting a distress or personal locator beacon (PLB)
• tell a family member or friend about your itinerary, including when you expect to be back
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• don’t venture off marked trails
• don’t use the facilities or equipment if you have doubts about their safety

Remote areas

Some regions in New Zealand are very isolated and have small populations. Services may be scarce.

You may have difficulty getting adequate mobile phone coverage if you travel in a remote area by car.

• Avoid travelling alone
• Inform relatives of your itinerary
• Check with local authorities before travelling if alerts have been issued for your destination

Useful links

• Alerts – New Zealand Department of Conservation
• AdventureSmart – New Zealand Search and Rescue Council
• Distress beacon information – New Zealand Department of Conservation

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common and can be dangerous. Several drownings occur each year.

In certain areas, sharks, seals and other wildlife pose a risk to swimmers.

• Avoid unsupervised beaches
• Follow the instructions and warnings of lifeguards
• Respect the flag warning system, which provides notice of water conditions and safety risks on beaches

Diving and snorkelling

Ensure that your aquatic equipment is safe and in good condition.

Never dive alone. Choose excursions with experienced tour operators.

• Beaches  – Water Safety New Zealand
• Free diving and snorkelling safety – Water Safety New Zealand
• Water safety abroad

Road travel

Road conditions and road safety are very good throughout the country.

Road conditions

Roads can be narrow, curvy and cover hilly terrain. Mountain roads, including those leading to ski hills, may be unpaved and without safety barriers.

Weather conditions can change quickly, particularly during winter. Snow, ice, fog, rain and strong winds can lead to dangerous driving conditions.

Landslides caused by heavy rain can block or wash away roads.

Road safety

Railway crossings may not have barriers, and bells may ring only during daylight hours, especially in rural areas.  Drinking and driving is common. Many road fatalities involve alcohol or drug use. Drivers often drive at excessive speeds.

Roaming animals in rural areas may pose further hazard. Dairy herds often cross main roads at milking time.

Pedestrians should use caution when crossing streets and be mindful that traffic is coming from the opposite direction than what they may be used to.

• Road closures and warnings – New Zealand Transport Agency
• Route planner – New Zealand Automobile Association
• Driving times, tips and road rules – Drive Safe, Tourism Industry Aotearoa 

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the authorities of New Zealand. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave from New Zealand.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 90 days Business visa: required Student visa: required

Electronic travel authority

Canadian tourists entering New Zealand without a visa need to get an electronic travel authority (NZeTA) online before their arrival, even if transiting to another country.

The NZeTA is valid for up to 2 years and allows multiple entries.

Other requirements

You must pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy when you request an NZeTA or apply for a visa.

Travellers to New Zealand must also complete a digital declaration form before they arrive. The New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) can be completed via their website or the NZTD mobile application.

• NZeTA – Immigration New Zealand
• International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy – Immigration New Zealand
• Traveller Declaration website – New Zealand Customs Service
• Download the NZTD app – New Government

The following documents are required to visit New Zealand:

• an onward or return ticket
• a visa for the next destination if required
• proof of sufficient funds
• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is good and available throughout the country.

If you are injured in a work or a car accident, you may receive treatment at a public hospital.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Some prescription medication may be illegal in New Zealand. 

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in the country.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

There are very strict rules and quarantine measures regarding the importation of food, animal products and medications.

Information about items which you can and cannot bring to New Zealand is available from New Zealand Customs Service.

List of prohibitions and restrictions - New Zealand Customs Service

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in New Zealand.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of New Zealand, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and New Zealand.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in New Zealand, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the New Zealand court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in New Zealand to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road.

You can drive in New Zealand with your Canadian driver license for up to 12 months. If you plan to stay for more than 12 months, you’ll need to get a New Zealand driver licence.

You should carry an international driving permit.

New Zealand’s Accident Compensation Act covers you for personal injuries if involved in an accident. However, the Act bars you from suing for losses stemming from personal injury resulting from the accident.

• Road regulations - New Zealand Transport Agency
• Information in case of an accident - New Zealand’s Accident Compensation Corporation
• International Driving Permit

The currency is the New Zealand dollar (NZD).

Climate change

Climate change is affecting New Zealand. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information.

New Zealand is prone to floods, landslides and avalanches.

Cyclones usually occur from November to April. During this period, even small storms can quickly develop into major cyclones. These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to New Zealand during the cyclone season:

• know that you may expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities

Severe rainstorms can lead to flooding and landslides. Flooding and landslides have resulted in significant loss of life and extensive damage to infrastructure. These events hamper the provision of essential services. Disruptions to air services and to water and power supplies may also occur.

• Keep informed of regional weather forecasts
• Avoid disaster areas
• Weather forecast - Meteorological Service of New Zealand Ltd
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad

Bush and forest fires are common between October and April across the country. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Fire weather information – Fire Emergency New Zealand

There are 12 alpine regions in New Zealand and avalanches can occur during any season. Learn about the risks of the terrain at your destination and carry the recommended equipment.

• Avalanche Advisory  - New Zealand Mountain Safety Council
• Be avalanche alert - Department of Conservation

Seismic activity

Earthquakes and tsunamis.

New Zealand is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes and tsunamis occur. A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. It can travel long distances across the Pacific.

If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

• Earthquakes - What to Do?
• Tsunami alerts - U.S. Tsunami Warning System

New Zealand has six Volcanic Alert Levels, ranging from no volcanic unrest, through two levels of volcanic unrest, to three levels of volcanic eruption. Currently Mount Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park is at alert level 2 due to high levels of volcanic gas emissions and steam plumes. There are a number of volcanoes and active thermal areas in the country, consider the risk before you go.

In the event of a volcanic eruption:

• stay indoors to reduce your exposure to ash
• keep windows and doors closed to prevent ash from entering
• use a face mask when outdoors for respiratory protection
• wear protective clothing if you need to be outdoors for extended periods
• monitor local media
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• Get Ready – New Zealand National Emergency Management Agency
• GeoNet –  Geological hazard information for New Zealand

Local services

Dial 111 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

American Samoa, Cook Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Wallis and Futuna

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in New Zealand and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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9 things only New Zealand locals know

Aug 16, 2024 • 9 min read

Pack with a view to changeable conditions as the weather on this island nation can be unpredictable. Getty Images

While I was born and bred here in New Zealand – or Aotearoa, the country's Māori-language name – I’ve spent enough years away to understand how it’s a destination that can feel both comfortingly familiar and completely strange to visitors all at once.

The butter is bright, beta-carotene yellow. Pies are filled with meat. You usually go up to the counter to pay for your meal. And you never, ever, sit on a table – it’s a taboo that has spread from Māori to the wider population.

But this diverse country of boiling mud pools, soaring mountains, subtropical beaches, rainforests and friendly people will make you feel – well, "sweet-as" (yes, that means good). Here are some things to know before going to New Zealand.

1. New Zealand’s weather may be relatively mild – but it also has the potential to be wild

An archipelago in the Pacific , New Zealand is a long, skinny country moored in tempestuous oceans heavily influenced by Antarctica . Its landmass stretches between 34 and 47 degrees south – the rough equivalent of northern Morocco to southern France – and the climate is often compared to Britain . What does this all mean? The weather can turn bad quickly. It pays to pack for all seasons, with a hat and sunscreen being must-haves. New Zealand’s peak UV levels can be 40% higher than those in similar North American latitudes, thanks in part to its clean air. For some, a blistering burn can happen in minutes and will ruin your holiday for a good week or more. In summer, plan shadier activities (such as visiting galleries and museums) for the peak hours of the day.

2. It’s OK to dress down

Casualness rules in New Zealand, even in urban areas. Depending on what region you’re in, even a wedding might see some Kiwis in jeans, their cleanest "bush shirt" (a tough woolen shirt) and gumboots (rubber boots/ Wellington boots) or jandals (flip-flops). This is unremarkable.

Something particularly disconcerting to travelers is New Zealanders’ penchant for bare feet. When you’re out of the main cities you’ll see tough-soled Kiwis hot-stepping over bubbling tarmac and strolling through the supermarket unshod.

Feel free to pack casual clothes.

3. What do you mean, there’s no bus?

Unbelievably, New Zealand’s public transport was arguably far better in the mid-20th century. But with many tram and railways ripped up for the sake of roads, the country has become very car-dependent.

With a population of only 5.2 million living on a landmass the size of Italy, car culture is proving difficult to shake. While cycling and public transport are making strong incursions, outside of Auckland there is nowhere near the density, quality, affordability and regularity of public transport you may be used to at home. Many New Zealand towns do not even have Uber or other rideshare apps.

With that being said, the country is reasonably well set up for visitors. For example, there are regular shuttle services to popular tourist destinations, such as Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves – but it pays to plan your transport well ahead.

4. Biculturalism is at the heart of Aotearoa’s culture

Unlike many colonized nations, in 1840 the British Crown signed a founding treaty, the Treaty of Waitangi with indigenous Māori, who have lived in New Zealand since at least the 1300s. Although colonization’s effect on Māori continues to spark debate and protest, the result is that modern New Zealand is a strongly bicultural nation.

Te ao Māori (the Māori worldview) is an integral part of even everyday interactions. This is evident to visitors and there are countless Māori-led tours, eateries and experiences to learn more.

To show respect, ask about local iwi (tribe) customs. As an example, don’t stand on the summit of maunga (mountains) including Ngāuruhoe (Mt Doom in the Lord of the Rings films) or Taranaki , if you go for a hike. As the head of an ancestor, mountain tops are regarded as tapu (sacred). New Zealand’s most famous son, Sir Edmund Hillary, may have said “we knocked the bastard off” when he and Tenzing Norgay climbed Everest in 1953, but modern travelers don’t have to.

Many place names and road signs are also in te reo Māori (the Māori language) . When it comes to speaking it, Kiwis will appreciate visitors trying to pronounce words as accurately as possible ("wh," for example, is generally pronounced "f"). An online pronunciation guide or podcast will help you with some of the more unfamiliar sounds; try Everyday Māori for starters.

5. If you want to make local friends, ask about our birds

New Zealanders absolutely love talking about their native birds and will immediately consider you a "good sort" (a kind and likable person) if you show interest.

But prepare to settle in. From tūī, kererū (wood pigeons), pīwakawaka (fantails) or whio (blue ducks), everyone has their favorite. Conservation organization Forest and Bird even runs a hotly contested Bird of the Year competition, which got global attention in 2023 when John Oliver, host of Last Week Tonight , campaigned on behalf of the pūteketeke (the Australasian crested grebe).

We love our birds because we understand how precious they are. Many are endangered, some critically so. New Zealand was a paradise of birds before people arrived around the 1300s, bringing with them rats, pigs, dogs, stoats, mice, cats, rabbits, weasels and possums. These have wreaked havoc and sent biodiversity plummeting ; in the last 1,000 years, 40 indigenous species have become extinct. (Thank goodness early settlers did not introduce the mongoose to control the rabbit population, as was suggested in the 19th century.)

The country is currently in the first 10 years of its Predator Free 2050 strategy, which aims to eradicate as many introduced mammals as possible by 2050. It is hugely ambitious and has resulted in a massive groundswell of support as everyday Kiwis exercise their bloodlust, setting rat traps in the backyard.

As a traveler, you'll encounter many tourism operators doing the same. You can learn more about these efforts as you zipline across regenerating forests at Rotorua Canopy Tours or stay at Maruia River Retreat , which is in the process of converting to a fully electric resort powered by renewable sources. Projects are even popping up where tourists can help check traplines, such as Tongariro River Rafting's Blue Duck Experience .

Predator-free bird sanctuaries abound in many areas, including the Zealandia sanctuary in Wellington, a sprawling and peaceful city oasis where you may be lucky enough to see wild kiwi on a guided night tour.

6. ACC is a wonder – but not a replacement for travel insurance

One of the most humane things about New Zealand is its no-fault accident compensation scheme, ACC . Fall and break your leg skiing? Get a bit banged-up on a big night out? It doesn’t matter whose fault it is and that you’re a tourist; if it’s an accident, your medical care is free.

Of course, you’ll need to have your own travel insurance. There are a lot of things – such as travel delays or extra accommodation needs – that ACC won’t cover if you get injured.

7. New Zealand is generally safe, but…

New Zealand is a safe and welcoming country, but crime happens. For travelers, avoiding downtown clubbing areas after midnight is a good way to avoid most problems. Tourist vans can be a goldmine for thieves, and are targeted especially when parked at freedom camping sites.

Many travelers have had an unfortunate souvenir of their time in New Zealand: a local newspaper article about how they lost everything in a break-in, ruining their dream Kiwi holiday. If you need urgent help, the emergency number is 111.

8. Pies are savory, not sweet

Kiwis love international cuisine, and you should be able to find something vaguely familiar to eat, especially in the main centers. But you must try a few quintessential New Zealand treats, too. Other than the fun you’ll have browsing the supermarket and trying every block of Whittaker’s chocolate on the market, roadside eateries (called "tearooms") and cafes offer a range of classic snacks.

One of the most filling and affordable small meals is a savory pie, sold just about everywhere. They’re golden, crispy pastry cases with fillings like butter chicken, mince (beef) and cheese, and steak and mushroom. Hint: The best pies are made in the local bakery. To get a winner, choose pies sold in plain white paper bags (not branded plastic) and bite into it straight from the bag.

If you’re down south and spot cheese rolls on the menu, try them, too. Known as "Southland sushi," a magical alchemy occurs when white bread is spread with a mix of grated cheese, evaporated milk, onion and other flavorings, like mustard or garlic, then rolled, brushed with butter and toasted into an oozy, golden delight.

"Slices" are also popular and similar to what Americans call "bars." A cross between a tart and a cookie with a topping or two, they’re baked or refrigerated in a square tin and cut into squares or rectangles. Popular slices are peppermint, caramel (millionaire bar), tan square (caramel shortcake) and the unbeatable ginger crunch.

Lolly cake is another favorite: a coconut-malt, no-bake cookie studded with colorful marshmallow-like fruit puffs.

9. Driving is very different in New Zealand

Unlike the wide, multi-lane expressways of other countries, many of our major roads are only dual carriageway or a two-way divided highway. They’re often winding and hilly, with the added obstacles of construction and "slips" (a Kiwi word for landslides).

Before you head off, check NZTA for potential road closures. Take care not to plan an overly ambitious road-trip itinerary , such as driving from Auckland to Cape Reinga in a day with stops for activities along the way. That might look like five-and-a-half hours on Google Maps, but it’ll probably be slow and exhausting. There’s no such thing as setting the cruise control and chilling out, letting drivers pass on the lanes around you.

You'll need your wits about you, particularly if it is your first experience driving on the left. When everyone’s driving in single file, people get frustrated. Also note: Kiwi drivers can follow too close for comfort, pass aggressively and have a particular disdain for camper vans.

If you’re feeling nervous and notice a long line of cars behind you, you’ll be more relaxed if you regularly pull over (where it’s safe to do so) and let the line of impatient locals pass. And they’ll usually give a friendly toot of thanks.

This article was first published Oct 12, 2023 and updated Aug 16, 2024.

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Helpful tips

Here's a few useful links to help with planning your trip to Aotearoa New Zealand.

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Planning to visit New Zealand? Read our guide that covers all the practical travel advice you need to know ahead of your trip.

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Learn about the COVID-19 requirements for travelling to New Zealand, visa and entry requirements and what sort of travel visa you might need. Find out how to get to New Zealand and how to book your trip.

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When is the best time to visit New Zealand?

It’s always a good time to visit New Zealand – find out about the weather, popular times to travel to New Zealand, seasonal activities around the country and major events and festivals you won’t want to miss.

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Getting around New Zealand

Whether you want to self-drive, fly, join a tour, or hop on a bus or train, there are plenty of options for getting around New Zealand. Find out what’s best for you with our practical advice on travel and transport in New Zealand.

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U.S. issues ‘Level 4: Do not travel’ advisory for South American country, ‘Level 3: Reconsider travel’ for Asian nation

• Updated: Sep. 27, 2024, 10:36 p.m.
• | Published: Sep. 27, 2024, 4:09 p.m.

(AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin) AP

• Dr. Gracelyn Santos | [email protected]

Travelers, be forewarned about your upcoming travel plans.

In recent weeks, the United States has issued, revised, or reissued multiple travel advisories , including warnings for popular European destinations like Italy and the United Kingdom, now classified under the “exercise increased caution” or “Level 2″ alert category, with “Level 4″ being the highest level of warning.

In addition, travel advisories to Denmark, Lesotho, and Haiti , were updated last week, with Haiti being classified as a “Level 4: Do not travel.”

The U.S. has released three new travel advisories including a “Level 2,” a “Level 3,” and a “Level 4: Do not travel” warnings.

On Sept. 23, the U.S. issued a “Level 2: Excercise increased caution″ advisory for Panama, recommending increased caution in Panama due to crime and potential for civil unrest. Some areas have increased risk, including theft, pickpocketing and purse snatching, in tourist areas.

On Sept. 10, the U.S. issued a “Level 3: Reconsider travel” advisory to Pakistan, due to terrorism. Travelers are advised to not avoid travel to Balochistan province and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province, including the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), due to terrorism.

On Sept. 24, U.S. issued a “Level 4: Do not travel” advisory for Venezuela , due to the high risk of wrongful detentions, terrorism, kidnapping, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, crime, civil unrest, poor health infrastructure.

The warning for Venezuela highlights high levels of violent crime, including homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking. Political rallies and demonstrations are frequent and often occur without warning. Authorities have responded to anti-Maduro protests with harsh crackdowns, which sometimes escalate into looting and vandalism.

Additionally, Colombian terrorist groups are active in Venezuela’s border regions with Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana. Widespread shortages of gasoline, electricity, water, medicine, and medical supplies persist throughout much of the country. Security forces have detained U.S. citizens for periods of up to five years.

(AP Photo/Eileen Putman, File) AP

If you are considering travel to Venezuela:

1. Avoid all travel to Venezuela, including through land border crossings, due to significant risks.

2. Nighttime travel between cities or from Simón Bolívar International Airport to Caracas is especially unsafe.

3. Entering Venezuela without a valid visa can result in indefinite detention without access to consular support.

4. U.S. citizens should draft a will and update insurance beneficiaries and power of attorney.

5. Establish a communication plan with family, employers, or host organizations, including a “proof of life” protocol in case of kidnapping to verify safety and avoid hoaxes.

6. Do not rely on U.S. government assistance in Venezuela; they cannot help replace lost or expired travel documents.

7. Avoid using unregulated taxis and ATMs around Simón Bolívar International Airport due to increased risks.

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8. Consider hiring a professional security organization while in Venezuela.

9. Over-the-counter and prescription medications are scarce for U.S. citizens in Venezuela.

10. The U.S. government cannot assist in the event of a medical emergency; consider purchasing medical evacuation insurance.

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Air New Zealand to change future of flying as AI exposes plane food no one likes, bunk beds added to economy

This airline is committed to change the future of flying – using AI to expose the plane food no one likes and adding bunk beds to the economy cabin.

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Air New Zealand wants to change the way you fly.

The airline’s chief customer and sales officer Leanne Geraghty sat down with news.com.au at the CAPA Airline Leader Summit in Brisbane to discuss how the flying experience is going to change for customers in the near future.

While the New Zealand carrier grapples with disruptions to its operations due to several aircraft being out of action as a result of issues with Rolls-Royce and Pratt & Whitney-manufactured engines, it remains focused on innovating.

AI exposes the food no one likes

The airline will soon make important changes to its menu after artificial intelligence was used to determine what travellers actually want to eat.

During trials that started last year, 30,000 photos were taken of food trays coming off flights from Los Angeles and Hong Kong to document food waste.

“Then we use AI to analyse it so it actually tells us what’s untouched, how much of a certain item is actually consumed, what is fully consumed and then we use that to give us insights into what customers do or do not eat,” Ms Geraghty explained.

“For example, we know the beetroot hommus on the entree dish is not popular.”

Neither is the blue cheese. They also found salad-based rather than grain-based salads are much more popular on the economy menu.

Ms Geraghty said changes would soon be made to ditch the unpopular ingredients.

She added the process not only helps deliver a product customers want, but is also “hugely beneficial from a waste perspective”.

A new way to check-in

Self-serve check-in kiosks at airports may still be considered innovative but they are not new to Australian and New Zealand travellers, and Air New Zealand believe the current tech is already outdated.

“Air New Zealand was the first to introduce self-serve kiosks for check-in back in the day,” Ms Geraghty said.

“Recently we’ve been working on what we call the ‘next-generation kiosks’ and development of that.”

Earlier this month, they tested out their proof of concept at Auckland Airport to gather feedback that will the feed the development and design of the tech.

Ms Geraghty said the new next-gen kiosks are “much faster” and smaller, as well as movable because they are iPad-based.

“There’s a number of functions that occur one-by-one in the kiosk today that we’re looking to run in parallel to take time out,” she said.

“The whole scanning proposition is different where you have to scan your passport. We’re doing that differently.”

While Ms Geraghty said it was too soon to give an indication on when the new kiosks might be rolled out because there was still “a lot of refinement to do”, she said she was “super excited” on how it was developing and urged us to “watch this space”.

Bunk beds added to the economy cabin

When talking about innovation, it is impossible to overlook bunk beds on planes.

Air New Zealand’s ‘Skynest’ is a pod of six bunk beds that anyone in economy or premium economy can book for a four hour timeslot.

They will be available on the airline’s new Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, which are due to arrive at the end of 2025, and will first be seen on the Auckland to New York route.

“We’ve specifically selected that one because it is our longest flying route and people have told us they want to arrive well and well rested at the destination, so it’s the perfect one to launch,” Ms Geraghty said.

The Skynest will be an add on product that passengers must purchase before their flight.

“After the four hours, the crew will, if you’re not awake, gently wake you and take 30 minutes and reset, refresh all the linen and the next people will come in,” she explained.

As for whether you can book more than four hours, the answer is a no.

“Ultimately down the track we would like to make them available for purchase in-flight but that would be a next phase,” Ms Geraghty said.

The price is yet to be determined, but will likely cost more than $500.

“Early indications were a price point somewhere in the $400 to $500 range for the four hour block but that was done in a pre-Covid context, so the teams are just working through that as a part of the on sale process over the coming months,” she said.

Among other upgrades coming with the new Boeing 787s is the ‘Sky Pantry’, where economy and premium economy passengers can help themselves to snacks and drinks at any time, and premium economy seats reclining into hard shell.

“So if you’re in that cabin, you will not have a seat recline on you,” Ms Geraghty said.

Wi-Fi on domestic flights

Air New Zealand has had Wi-Fi on long-haul international services for about seven years, but does not have Wi-Fi on domestic flights.

Ms Geraghty said using satellite like on their long-haul services is “really challenging” on domestic services in New Zealand because of its geography, so they have opted for Elon Musk’s Starlink.

“We don’t have broadband like it is available in other countries so Starlink is the perfect way for us to be able to deliver Wi-Fi for our domestic customers,” she said.

“People will be able to stream and all sorts of things, whereas traditional Wi-Fi with satellite is limited in terms of its bandwidth.”

She said Starlink would “take it to another level” and would trialled on the domestic network “toward the end of this year”.

“[We’re] hoping that it all goes incredibly well and it is a new product we can deliver to customers,” she said.

“We definitely just think people expect Wi-Fi wherever they are.”

Electric aircraft

Air New Zealand is taking steps toward introducing electric planes to its fleet.

The airline’s first all-electric aircraft, the Beta ALIA, will take flight in 2026 to transport cargo.

“We’re going to be using that as a demonstrator type scenario to carry NZ Post between Wellington and Marlborough,” Ms Geraghty said.

And while it won’t be taking passengers, she said it is a “a significant step forward” to next-generation aircraft.

More Coverage

“It’s a fully electric aircraft this particular one so it will be an opportunity for us to gain a lot of insights and knowledge as to how that operates to help work through next steps for next-gen in terms of passenger fleet,” she said.

“The structure of the geography of New Zealand and the route network does make it quite ideal to test these type of aircraft.

“We think that over time when passenger aircraft are available, they will open up opportunities for a whole bunch of different route connectivity and route selections within the country.”

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