New Zealand has the most beautiful scenery in the world, and the
friendliest people. You’ll be enchanted by jagged mountains painted with snow,
sparkling blue lakes, and rolling green fields. But be careful not to make
these ten critical mistakes when traveling in New Zealand…
 |
| Aoraki, Mount Cook. Credit: Lasseholsthansen |
10. Underestimating Jetlag
It takes a long time to get to New Zealand. Unless you are lucky enough
to be escaping from Australia, most flights are going to cross many time zones
and you’re going to be stuck in a plane for a number of hours. Drink lots of
water on the flight over, avoid alcohol, and try to get some sleep. Allow
yourself a couple of days to adjust once you’re there, particularly before
driving long distances. And remember to make sure you get your travel insurance
sorted before you fly. Visit Air New Zealand Travel Insurance for more
information.
9. Expecting Driving to be Easy
 |
| Driving in New Zealand. Credit: Dschwen |
New Zealand has less people on the road compared to many other
countries. However the roads can be technically challenging they meander around
scenic coastlines and majestic mountains. Roads are often only one lane each
direction, so it’s easy to get stuck behind a slow moving truck or campervan.
Take your time.
If you are driving slowly, pull over regularly to let others
pass you, and be careful when you are passing others. Remember the speed limit
on the open road is usually 100km/hr, and there are speed cameras dotted
throughout the country. Remember to
purchase travel insurance, with rental car insurance excess protection when
planning on hiring a car or camper van to explore New Zealand;
8. Expecting New Zealand to be Crime-Free
New Zealand is known to be a relatively safe and peaceful country, where
the biggest argument is the inclusion of pineapple on pizza. However there are
opportunists who prey on tourists, particularly breaking into parked vehicles.
Keep your luggage and valuables out of sight. Always lock your vehicle. In the
unlikely event you are robbed, contact the local police.
7. Not Being Friendly Enough
New Zealanders are a friendly bunch. They will smile and say hello to
you (always when tramping and definitely more in small towns) Most people are
happy to have a ‘yarn’ (talk) with you about the weather. Kiwis love chatting
about how amazing New Zealand is, so ask any local for their top recommendation
and they’ll happily share their secrets with you!
6. Traveling in the High Season
Summer in New Zealand runs from December to February, and it’s generally
the best weather. However autumn is stunning in Otago, with fields of rippling
golden trees and a thin dusting of snow on the Southern Alps.
The skiing in the
middle of winter is outstanding in both islands. Spring comes with prancing
lambs and fresh, the bright green growth of grass and trees. If you don’t mind
cooler weather, then travel off peak to get the best deals on vehicles and
accommodation.
5. Not Taking Advantage of BYO
New Zealand has some of the best wines in the world and some beautiful
wineries to visit. Buy a few bottles of your favourites because for many New
Zealand restaurants, you can ‘Bring Your Own’ wine. Most BYO restaurants in Auckland that offer
BYO will advertise this, and there will be a small fee to cover corkage, but is
a great way to save a few dollars and still have a beautiful New Zealand
sauvignon blanc with your meal.
4. Over Planning
Especially if you travel off-peak, you don’t need to book everything in
advance. Kiwis are a cruisy bunch, and it’s rare that accommodation or
attractions are completely sold out. Don’t book too much in advance and take
advantage of the freedom of traveling as you want, exploring as you go.
|
| Aoraki, Mount Cook. Credit: Lasseholsthansen |
3. Only Thinking of the North and South Islands
While the North and South Islands are New Zealand’s main islands, there
is also the remote Stewart Island, Great Barrier Island and the Bay of Islands.
Stewart Island is tucked between New Zealand and Antarctica and offers some of
the most amazing birdlife and tramps. The Bay of Islands is a subtropical
region known for its beauty and the part it’s played in New Zealand history.
2. Visiting Only the Popular Destinations
New Zealand has a number of well-known destinations, including Auckland,
Rotorua, Taupo, and Queenstown. Don’t limit yourself to these places. Instead
of Queenstown, try Te Anau and Wanaka for stunning visits without the crowds
and expensive price tags. Escape Auckland and visit Christchurch instead, with
incredible outdoor opportunities for walkers and mountain bikers, as well as a
great food scene. Wellington offers an iconic café hipster culture, plenty of
New Zealand history, and great shopping.
1. Not Spending Enough Time
New Zealand is a small country, so it’s easy to think you can do it all
in a week. To be honest, you need two weeks in each Island. Remember, New
Zealand is miles from everywhere and you’ve flown a long way. Might as well
make it worth your time and plan to take your time and explore the beautiful
country properly!
 |
| Church of the Good Shepherd. Lake Tekapo. Credit: Bernad Spragg |
Thanks for sharing these tips! I learn a lot! Actually I'm going to travel Thailand soon and my next destination would be Europe.
ReplyDelete