Updated on September 8, 2017.
Kia Ora. Thanks heaps for checking out my blog. After you read this post, please head on over to my latest project – Planit NZ. Planit NZ is my New Zealand travel guide and booking website. You can research all things travel in New Zealand on the website, and you can also book hop on, hop off backpacker bus passes, small group tours or activities. Booking any aspect of your trip through Planit NZ supports my work and is most appreciated.
The Land of the Long White Cloud is a destination well worn onto the backpacker trail. And for all the right reasons. An epic combination of stunning scenery, adventure sports, and friendly locals combine to make New Zealand one hell of a place to travel to.
Not only is New Zealand beautiful, New Zealand is easy to travel around. In fact, New Zealand is arguably one of the most backpacker or independent budget traveler friendly countries in the world.
You’ll be hard pressed to find a better spot to break into the world of long term travel.
New Zealand is addictive. Trust me. I originally came for a 12 month working holiday, yet nearly seven years later I’m still living in New Zealand.
Be it the quality of life, the miles and miles of untouched, remote and spectacular scenery, or the laid-back no-worries outlook on life, something about New Zealand will grab you and not let you leave.
So you’re considering a trip backpacking in New Zealand? Sweet as (as we say). While New Zealand is welcoming and easy to get around, you might have some questions about your trip here. Consider these:
15 Tips for Your First Experience Backpacking in New Zealand
1 ) Travel North to South
Almost daily I get emails from backpackers planning their trip to New Zealand. One of the most common questions I get is:
Should I start on the North Island or the South Island?
While the North Island is stunning (be sure to check out the Bay of Islands and definitely don’t miss the chilled out Coromandel Region), the South Island is where it’s at. As it will be the highlight of your trip, it’s the logical place to finish.
The mountains are taller, the drives are more spectacular, the Great Walks are greater, and the beer is better so finish on New Zealand’s South Island.
2 ) Avoid the Chain Hostels
There is no shortage of budget accommodation throughout New Zealand. From hostels, to budget motels to holiday parks with self contained accommodation, you won’t have a problem finding a place to lay your head at night.
As New Zealand is frequented by thousands of young backpackers each year, the big chain hostels are present throughout the North and South Islands. Many of the major backpacking destinations have Nomads or Base Backpacker hostels that are filled with younger party hard backpackers.
While many of these are adequate – and some quite flash (I’m talking about you Nomads Queenstown) – there are heaps of character filled, independently owned hostels that will compliment your trip to this small island nation.
Check out the BBH backpackers (Budget Backpacker Hostels) and get to know their quirky owners, settle down with a glass of New Zealand wine next to their wood burners, or listen to the sea from their gardens.
Also growing in popularity in New Zealand, like many places around the world, is AirBNB. I was in Oamaru recently had grabbed an entire home with sea views, walking distance to town, for about the same price as a basic motel. If you haven’t used AirBNB before, you can get $29 NZD free credit when signing up via this link.
3 ) Arriving to New Zealand
Chances are your flight to New Zealand will arrive in Auckland. A city that often gets a bad rap amongst travellers into the country. It’s not my favorite city in the world, but there are plenty of funky neighborhoods and stunning beaches nearby to explore. If you have a couple days, be sure to head over to Waiheke Island ($36 return). Or, if you’re looking for a day tour this Zip, Wine, Dine package is a perfect mix of adventure and New Zealand wine, and is a great way to experience the island.
Before you travel to New Zealand, take care of your mailbox in advance. Choose the best virtual mailbox service for business and travelers at getnewmailbox.com.
The SkyBus Express will be your best choice for the quick, 45 minute trip to the Auckland CBD. Tickets are only $28 round trip and can be booked online so you’re set to go when you land.
Consider these Auckland budget travel tips for your first couple days in the city – and most importantly, don’t stay too long – there is too much to see outside of NZ’s largest city.
4 ) Consider Buying a Car or Campervan
New Zealand absolutely begs to be explored behind the steering wheel of your very own car or campervan.
You won’t realize how many of these converted, backpacker-filled vans flock New Zealand’s roads until you’re here yourself. If falling asleep to the sound of the surf and waking to the sunrise sounds appealing to you, then a campervan just might be the right mode of transportation for trip.
Traveling New Zealand by campervan gives you loads of flexibility, allows you to get off the beaten path, and you will ultimately save you heaps on accommodation costs.
Many backpackers in New Zealand buy a van when they arrive and sell it prior to their departure. Surprisingly, buying a campervan in New Zealand is a simple and straightforward process; however, do be aware that a certain amount of risk is involved and not all of the campvervans in New Zealand are good investment. I suggest you take your van to the VTNZ, and have them perform a pre-vehicle inspection on it. It’ll cost you $110, but might save you thousands if you buy a lemon. If you have anything less than 3 months, buying a van is a bad idea as you’ll waste too much time trying to buy / sell the van.
Freedom camping is possible in New Zealand, however over the past couple years this has become much more strictly regulated. Sadly, too many inconsiderate backpackers have created a bad name for all of us – disrespecting the countryside by leaving rubbish or worse behind. So, if you’re going to freedom camp, do it respectfully – more on this post here.
In areas where freedom camping is not allowing, the Department of Conservation runs basic campsites that are as little as $5/night.
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5 ) If Not, take the Hop-on, Hop-Off Backpacker Bus
If you’re not comfortable driving on the left side on New Zealand’s roads, then your next best bet is going on a hop on, hop off backpacker bus tour.
A hop-on, hop-off bus pass is the perfect balance between a fully-guided, small group tour and a self-guided trip that sees you creating your own itinerary and driving yourself around NZ. These buses run on set routes around the country, and that allows you to pick a pass that goes to the places YOU want to see most. You can organize your own activities or accommodation, but the driver-guide on board the bus can help you out if you wish. They’re an awesome way to meet other travellers, and a great way to get to some lesser known destinations in New Zealand.
I recommend Stray, and you can see their most popular passes on Planit NZ. I can offer an exclusive Stray discount code of 5% if you book your New Zealand trip through Planit NZ. Contact me to find out more.
6 ) Get a 2Degrees Sim Card
If you’re traveling with an unlocked cell phone, you’ll be able to pick up a sim card when you get into New Zealand. While there are a couple different providers to choose from, your best bet is undoubtedly 2Degrees.
They offer cheap, international calls back home to Mom & Dad as well as cheap calls throughout New Zealand – for $19 you can get unlimited calls, unlimited texts and 1GB of data.
7 ) 3…2…1 Bungy! Do it.
New Zealand is an adrenaline junkies’ paradise. If you can dream it, chances are you can do it in New Zealand.
You can jump off bridges or out of planes. You can roll down hills in giant, water filled balls. You can run off cliffs with parachutes strapped to your back. You can cruise down rivers narrowly missing canyon walls in a jet boat. Or you can go black water rafting deep below the earth’s surface. You can even learn to paraglide. By yourself. Really, you can do it all.
Whatever you do, make sure you do a bungy jump
AJ Hackett established the world’s first permanent, commercial bungy jumping operation in Queenstown in 1982. Today, there are three in Queenstown alone for you to choose from (K Bridge, Nevis Highwire Bungy, & The Ledge Bungy). You can also bungy on the North Island at the fantastic Taupo Bungy.
It’s a terrifying experience – arguably, one of the most difficult things you’ll ever have to do, yet it’s an absolute rush and a must for your trip to New Zealand.
8 ) Don’t Try to Fit Too Much In
Planning a trip to New Zealand isn’t an easy process. In fact, it’s bloody difficult. Why?
There is such a wide variety of things to do, landscapes to see, and experiences to be had, that you’ll not know how you can fit it all in.
To be honest, you probably can’t. Unless you’re committing two or three months to New Zealand, it’s impossible to see it all in one go. The biggest mistake you can make when coming to New Zealand is attempting to do too much in too little time.
You’ll enjoy your experience backpacking in New Zealand heaps more if you have time to relax and spend a little longer in those untouched little corners of New Zealand you’ll inevitably find.
9 ) Experience a Great Walk
A road trip around New Zealand will reveal a country considerably untouched by the human hand. Sure, tourism is big business in many of New Zealand’s destinations, yet a huge part of the country is as remote and untouched as it is stunning.
Almost 30% of land in New Zealand is publicly owned and much of this has been converted to National Parks.
There are a series of multi-day Great Walks throughout New Zealand and you should experience at least part of one on your trip here. Check out the Routeburn Track near Queenstown, the Abel Tasman Coastal Track near Nelson, or one of the other seven Great Walks.
10 ) Try WWOOFing
If you’ll be staying in New Zealand for more than a couple months, you might want to consider WWOOFING (Willing Workers On Organic Farms) for part of your trip.
Wwoofing is a host system where you can exchange a couple hours of work each day on an organic farm in return for free food and accommodation.
It’s a fantastic way to save some money, meet interesting local Kiwis, and get a feel for a different aspect of life in New Zealand. The majority of people swing through New Zealand, see the sites, jump off bridges and miss the small and out of the way places that make New Zealand so unique.
These Wwoofing experiences and tips are a great place to start if you’re considering this for part of your stay.
11 ) Walk on a Glacier
While most of these tips aren’t experience focused, walking on a glacier is one that undoubtedly deserves to make it on the list. New Zealand is filled with wonders, and you’ll find two on the West Coast of the South Island – the Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers.
These ancient pieces of ice start in the Southern Alps and stretch all the way to coastal, temperate rainforest only miles away from the sea at 300 metres above sea level.
Walking on one is an iconic New Zealand experience and one that you should have while you’re here.
Over recent years, the glacier has been retreating further up the valley. Previously you could go on a guided tour of the glacier, and would access it via foot up the valley. As it’s retreated over the years, now the only way to get on it is via a quick helicopter trip from the Franz Josef township. It’s consequently a bit more expensive, but is an epic experience nonetheless. You can book here on Planit NZ at the best price.
The West Coast itself is a unique and fascinating area of New Zealand, so be sure to spend at least a couple days exploring the rugged coastline from Karamea all the way to Haast.
12 ) Hitchhiking in New Zealand
If you decide to buy a campervan, rent a vehicle, or get around by bus, you’ll be shocked at the number of hitchikers you see in New Zealand. It’s quite common and a very budget-friendly way to see New Zealand.
Clearly, care should be taken – you shouldn’t hitchhike at night and you’re probably better off with a mate (might as well minimize your risk), yet it’s a bloody exciting way to see the country.
New Zealanders are a friendly lot and you’re bound to have some interesting chats once you do get picked up.
If you decided to give it a go, you’re best off on the outskirts of a town, and make sure there is room for the driver to pull over; if there isn’t, you won’t get picked up – it’s as simple as that. A smile never hurts and a sign saying where you want to go will probably speed up your chances of getting a lift.
13 ) Beware of New Zealand Internet
As any travel blogger, Facebook addict, or general internet using backpacker that has come to New Zealand knows, the state of the internet here is dreadful.
It’s often slow, more often expensive, always charged by data usage (Skyping is difficult), and almost never included with your stay in a hostel.
Slowly, more and more cafes are offering free internet yet without a doubt New Zealand is far behind the rest of the world. Your best bet for finding free WiFi is at the local library with the other backpackers who have figured the system out. Sadly, even though this post has been updated since 2011, the internet in New Zealand is still bloody dreadful.
14 ) Go Mountain Biking
Mountain biking in New Zealand is unsurpassed by few places in the world and Kiwis love their bikes about as much as they love “The Rugby.”
Wherever you are, you’re bound to find some single track trails (just ask at the bike shop in town, there is bound to be one), yet Rotorua on the North Island is arguably the mountain biking capital of New Zealand.
Hire a bike and spend the day exploring the miles (and miles) of single track trails in the Whakarewarewa Forest – chances are, you’ll want to go back for day two.
In a country where budget activities are few and far between, mountain biking is a fantastic way to spend a day and see the countryside (plus, you’ll burn off the calories from all those budget-saving meat pies you’ve been eating).
15 ) Get Off the Beaten Path
In a country the size of the state of Colorado, you have 4 million people, 40 million sheep and every possible landscape you could imagine.
There is so much to be seen that no guidebook (or blog post) will ever point you in all the right directions. Use this to your advantage, and seek out your own untouched areas of Aotearoa.
A highlight of your trip to the Land of the Long White Cloud should be getting off the beaten path and finding your own special corner of this idyllic part of the world.
So take it slow, make some wrong turns, start conversations with the locals, and get to know New Zealand for what it is – one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Have you been backpacking in New Zealand? Leave your tips in the comments section below.
Found this post useful? Awesome! Don’t leave, check out the posts below:
- Traveling the North Island with Stray New Zealand
- Kawhia: New Zealand’s Best Kept Secret
- North Island or South Island New Zealand?
- NZ Must Do: Experiencing the Waitomo Caves
Backpacking Matt 
Hey Matt. Great blog.
My girlfriend and I will be arriving in NZ end of May and was wondering whether we will be a little late to get winter jobs Queenstown/Wanaka way?
We also work from our laptops so having internet is a must. I’m a little shocked by your comment on the internet, thought NZ was quite developed, is it really that bad? Is there any decent 3G sims you could get that work in remote regions and have lots of data? Everywhere seems to advertise Wifi, is this misleading?
Thanks Matt
May isn’t too late at all. If anything, you’re too early as the season doesn’t really get going until June / July!
The internet in NZ is pretty frustrating. You’ll find Free WiFi in increasingly more places, although often this includes some ridiculous data limit. You can get mobile data with 2degrees, and in towns / cities service is pretty reliable.
If you want reliable mobile internet I wouldn’t get 2Degrees – coverage outside the main centres is poor and it can go from good to non-existent in a very short distance. You’re much better off with Spark – their coverage is far better
Hey Matt, great tips!
Was just wondering where would you recommend for a solo traveller of 19, planning to stay for about 1-2 weeks in New Zealand?
Thanks!
Hi Si! I wouldn’t recommend staying anywhere for 1-2 weeks! I’d say get a Stray Pass and explore either the North or South Island for your time. Check out Planit NZ for the passes, we can help book!
Loved your little blurb and tips.
Planning a trip in the middle of October this year with the gf, and we are going all in. Have trip planned out to head to dc in June to talk to the New Zealand embassy to figure out everything we need to apply for a working holiday visa, and spend the next 12 months working and actually living. It’s been a fantasy of mine since I was 16. These were all wonderful tips my friend.
My pleasure Luis, enjoy!
Hi Matt,
I’m turning 58 in June and am planning a 2 – 3 month trip by myself. I’m from Cape Town, SA. I was thinking to come around end of Jan 2016, is this a good time of the year to come. I was also thinking to hike around from the North to the South as this seems the way to go. Is this advisable at my age, although I am quite fit and live for the outdoors. I was also going to use back packers hostel for accommodation and carry maybe a small tent just in case. Generally what are the costs of affordable hostels, just a rule of thumb figure.
thanks for your website, will use it again nearer the time.
Hi Neville – you’d find hostels were about $25-$35 for shared rooms. January is a great time to be here, middle of our summer. Check out the Te Araroa Trail if you plan on walking across NZ!
hi,
I really want to rent a car to travel a month from north to south. i’m thinking of renting a camper. I know there are some companies lease van-camper which has a small kitchen, fridge, etc. However, I am wondering if campsites have showers there? If not, which is the best solution/ which renting companies offer mobile house (something small but has a restroom inside). Thanks so much.
Hey Nhung. Most holiday parks will have showers, but the cheaper and more remote Department of Conservation (DOC) sites will only have very basic toilets. I’ll drop you an email – lots of options to consider and through Planit NZ we can help you get your campervan at a good price.
Hi Matt,
Thanks for all of your really useful help.
I’m looking at taking a Stray Maximum pass, on offer for $979 (on offer, down from $1,725). I will be going to NZ in October.
I noticed on another blog you recommended not buying the pass before I go. Do you think that because the above is a good deal I should buy it now? Or you reckon I can still get cheaper whilst in NZ?
I’m scared if I don’t buy it now I won’t be able to get one this cheap again!
Thanks again,
Alex
Hey Alex, dropped you an email! We can sort you out with a good deal through Planit NZ. Thanks for the comment!
Hi Matt,
Great blog and tips.
I’m thinking in visit NZ next year, and wanted to stay for a little more than 1 year there.
what do you recommend me to do in this case?
is it hard to get a temporary working visa?
My idea is to work while I travel.
thanks in advanced for your answer.
Diego.
Hey Diego, you’ll have to check Immigration NZ to see what type of visa you can get, depending on your age / nationality. Staying longer would require you to get sponsored by your employer.
Hey mate, simialr boat – how much money do you intend to initially take out if you don’t mind me asking?
Thanks a lot Matt.
don you have a Job available… 😀
thanks again, I’ll try to find out the VISA that I need.
HI Matt!
Will be arriving in NZ around December 2015. Am I best sticking to Wellington and Auckland for work? Is it easier to base yourself there? I didnt really like Auckland and swaying more towards Wellington. Just looking for advice really.
Whats the best sites etc to find accommodation?
Thanks
Hey Hopp. I’d spend a month or two travelling around the country first, so you get to know the feel of NZ / experience different regions / etc. You never know when you’ll stumble into a job, or a place to live, or find a place you absolutely love! Get a Stray pass and get on the road! We can book through Planit NZ for you. 🙂
This is really useful thanks!! I’m heading out to Auckland on 4 October with a working holiday visa and have a farm to head to near Palmerston North, so I plan to travel North Island first, work, then travel South Island and see what happens re my favourite place! Loads of plans for trail runs on South Island and just hope I’ll meet likeminded trail runners and people age 30ish like moi! Thanks dude for ace site!
Hi Matt!
Me and my boyfriend are going to NZ in 1 or 2 weeks and are thinking about staying 2 weeks in the south island. Can you tell me which company is best to rent a campervan?:)
Hey Erna! Have emailed you. 🙂
Hi Matt,
I’m heading to Queenstown on the 21st of June on a working holiday visa. I was wondering if you know of any hostels that are good for meeting people and in a good location for finding jobs and good entertainment. I’m 24 years old so I don’t want a hostel that’s too quiet. I won’t have a vehicle to begin with so somewhere with good public transport.
Thanks,
Daniella
Nomads, Absoloot Value Accommodation, Haka Lodge. 21 June is Winter Festival, so places will be very busy!
Hi Matt,
I’m coming to NZ with a friend for about 6 months in july . I have been looking at the Stray Bus tours but wondering which one you would recommend, I want to see as much as I can. I also plan on finding work but definitely after I have had a chance to travel !
We fly into Christchurch so would be starting in the south 🙂 any information you can give would be great.
Emily
Hey Emily, thanks for your comment and great to hear bout your planned trip to NZ. I’ve dropped you an email. Let me know if you haven’t received!
Hey Matt,
Haven’t received an email from you yet …. may be my fault as put ‘cm’ instead of ‘com’ !
Hey Emily. Strange, sent again not sure you received? Stray is awesome, can’t suggest them enough. Your best value start anywhere pass at the moment is the Stray Max Pass. Drop me a line at matt@planitnz.com and I can help you book. This supports my work and is much appreciated!
Hi matt
just read your tips and they were very very useful. In order to fund the trip fully, me and my girlfriend are going to have to work and we thought that Auckland would be the best place in the winter months as we don’t have enough room for serious winter weather. What other places would you recommend in the north island to work before we buy the campervan and go wild in the south!?
Hey Paul, you stand the chance to find work anywhere, so whatever looks good to you.
Hi matt
I’m going to NZ in September. Since it’s a Working Holiday, I’ve read that it’s a great idea to buy a car to get around. Do you think I should get a car if I’m travelling solo?
Anyway thanks for all your useful tips!
Sure, if you’re going to be here a year it’s worth buying a car!
Hey Matt! Great post! I stumbled upon your blog on a whim, a few days after hiking the Na Pali coastline in Kauai with some mates, and I’d like to experience something similar in NZ and rough it, with great views. What would you suggest for a female, early 30s, wanting to do a nature backpacking trip alone or with a mate? Is it advisable to do so alone? Would March be a good month? Time is flexible, probably 2 weeks max, the more hikes I can squeeze in the better, but I wouldn’t mind taking my time on one long hike. Cheers!
Hey N. I’d suggest doing a couple multi-day hikes around Queenstown. Rees-Dart, Milford Track, Routeburn track and then spend some time exploring Queenstown and surrounds!
Hey Matt,
Im going over to New Zealand in the end of September and was planning on getting a Intercity 60 hour bus pass. I will be over there for 7 months I plan to travel and enjoy life for 3-4 months and then work the rest of my trip. Being 18 years of age going on 19 while living in New Zealand where do you recommend working/living.
Hey Jeremy! Awesome to hear about your move to New Zealand, you’re going to love it! Don’t buy an Intercity pass, get a Stray Pass! Intercity just goes from Point A to B, whereas Stray goes to out of the way places you’d otherwise didn’t even know exist. Plus you’ll be travelling with other younger backpackers / working holiday makers, and you’ll have a heaps better time. In terms of where to live? Depends totally what you’re into! I’m biased since I live here, but Queenstown is choice – surrounded by mountains, a resort town with heaps to do and probably one of the most beautiful places in the world. If you want sun and beaches, you’d like Nelson / Abel Tasman. City? Wellington. But I’d say buy a pass, hit the road, and who knows what place you’ll stumble upon that you like .. or find a job on the way!
The Stray Maximus pass is on sale this month. Normally $1725 NZD but on sale for only $949. It’s an awesome pass that covers all of the country. Book it through Planit NZ (National New Zealand Bus Pass: 24+ Days) and I can get you a 5% discount this month. Use this code: JMF5SNZ
http://planitnz.com/new-zealand-tours/national-new-zealand-bus-pass-24-days
Thanks for replying back so fast! I was planning on going on the Kiwi Experience pass, but after tons of research and talking to others they said to stay in backpackers for a week at a time and go out with a group to do the activities you would do on Stray or Kiwi Experience. Also one last question which is a big one is how much roughly would I need a month excluding activities? Cheers.
Sweet, I reckon that’s a mistake, but I’m sure you’ll still have a good time! Depends on how you eat / drink / party / etc, but expect a hostel room to cost $25-$35 per night.
Hi Matt,
I will be in New Zealand from roughly Sep 17-28, although I’ll be flying in to Queenstown from Melbourne. And since I’ll be returning to the U.S. at the end of that stay, my departing flight is out of Auckland…. so I’ll be doing the opposite of the suggested and working my way from South Island to North Island. Should be a total of 11 days in NZ.
I am mostly trying to determine whether it’s preferable to rent a campervan and deal with trying to find a place to park at night that has shower/stove/etc., vs. mapping out an itinerary beforehand and staying at hostels. It seems that I’d be better off not picking a single city/hotel and then doing daytrips to/from it every day, but rather finding a place to lodge each night along the drive. Any recommendations you’d have in this regard, esp considering I’m coming in what I presume is “off season” (NZ winter), would be greatly appreciated! I’m tacking this trip onto the end of a surprise business trip to China, which is why I have less preparation time than I’d ordinarily make, since my company is flying me over to Asia on fairly short notice.
Thanks again,
Ryan
Hey Ryan, thanks for the comment! Dropped you an email with some thoughts. 🙂
Hi!
Me and two of my friends are going to NZ in november and are thinking about staying 2 weeks in the north island. Which company is best to rent a campervan?:)
Hey Victora, have emailed you!
hey. it’s great to see this blog and to see all the keen travellers, young and old !
I myself am a kiwi. Currently 18 going on 19 looking to do a road trip down south in jan.
my biggest question is about the tourist on the road ! If it can be as bad as I have heard.
In the north come summer, we get inidated with bad drivers.. Not saying all tourist are!!
But I was just wondering will I need to take extra care on the roads down south ?
Cheers.
Take extra care 🙂
Hi Matt!
Thanks for the great tips, it’s good to have them in mind. I’m in NZ for a year under working holiday visa but I am more inclined on the holiday part of it. I want to buy a van and take my time to explore the country and be autonomous.
There seem to be so many places where camping is prohibited altogether (according to this website: http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-stay/stay-at-a-campsite/freedom-camping/prohibited-conservation-areas/#coromandel).
I was wondering how easy it is to actually freedom camp (find a spot around), does it have to be on special area like delimited sites or can it be anywhere that’s out of sight from locals and the road?
Also: is buying a self-contained van really worth the extra-money?
Thanks for the tips anyway!
Hey Leo, freedom camping is strictly prohibited or limited to certain areas, depending where you are at in the country. Backpackers have developed a bad name by sleeping wherever, leaving rubbish and worse behind, so sadly many locals don’t take to well to seeing old campervans parked up beside the road. You’ll get fined in many districts as well, so your best bet is parking up at designated campsites!
Hey Matt! Awesome blog!
Im currently in Auckland and planning on flying into Queenstown in a week. Im a backpacker on a working holiday visa, so i was wondering if there are jobs available this time of the year? I was also wondering if there are any farms there, so that i could do some fruitpicking when the season kicks in? If you have any advices for jobsearching or accommodation in Queenstown, please let me know!
Thanks!
Hey Nea, it’s a hard time to find work in Queenstown as we’re going into the quiet period in between seasons. I’m sure you can find something, just comes down to luck and persistence. Finding a job is no different to any place, hitting the ground with a smile and your CV is often the best bet! Check out the Lakes Weekly Bulletin which comes out on Tuesday’s for accommodation and jobs listings too.
so much to see! So much to do! Where should I go to explore the countryside on a bicycle if I’m coming in January or February? Would WWOOFING be something done on the same days?
I’m travelling to NZ solo for three weeks mid Dec. A little nervous but extremely excited, this helped a lot. Cheers 🙂
Hey Tegan, you’ll love it! Dropped you an email with some ideas!
Hey Matt,
I’ll be heading to Queenstown on the 1st of November and will depart from Christchurch on the 9th. I know it’s a short stay, but could you recommend places to visit while I make my way up to Christchurch in that short time?
thanks heaps
Hey Cherie, feel free to drop me an email on matt@Planitnz.com and I can help you sort out an itinerary! You’ve actually got quite a bit of time, so depending on how long you want to stay in Queenstown you can see quite a bit of the South Island!
Hi Matt,
I have enjoyed reading your post. Particularly liked that you have spoken of the independent hostel within NZ and the BBH network.
Please could you you drop me an email
Thank you
Zoe
Hey Matt!
Enjoyed reading your post. Currently, I’m planning for my work holiday trip.
Just a small question- can I take a bicycle up onto the backpacker buses? I was thinking of making my way through NZ hopping on the buses and cycling. Do you think it’s a good idea?
Sorry if my question sound silly!
Hey Aizahr, generally bikes aren’t allowed on the backpacker buses. However you can always find bikes for rent in towns throughout NZ, so you can just rent one to explore any area you like!
Thanks for this post, Matt!
I’ll be landing in Auckland in about two weeks. I have a working holiday visa and a friend to visit in Wellington, but otherwise no set plans. A lot of people are talking about buying a car/camper, but I was wondering if bike transportation between cities is possible (considering I have nothing but time haha). Would a mountain bike be a worthwhile investment, or do you think buying one would be more burdensome than it’s worth?
Thanks!
Hi Matt, me and my bf will be travelling the north and south island from the 27th Dec – 18 Jan. We want to hire a campervan. Who is the best and cheapest company to do this? We don’t need anything fancy – just a bed, fridge, cooker and sink. Thanks in advance. Marie
Hey Marie. You’ll have no luck finding a campervan this late notice for December. It’s peak season. I’d rent a car and buy a tent instead! We’ll find you a good deal, put in a request here:
http://www.planitnz.com/new-zealand-car-rental-quotes/
Hey Matt,
I’ll be in New Zealand for all of January (about 4 and a half weeks total) and have one of the Stray passes (Short Moe and I can guarantee I spent way too much on it) already. I was wondering which places you would suggest hopping off and spending more time in? I definitely like the idea of renting a bike and exploring a few lesser known areas (though I am recovering from a broken ankle, so only time will tell if it’s a possibility!)
Thanks!
Shannon
Hi, thanks for comments 🙂
Me and my boyfriend will be in NZ all February, planning to rent a car. Traveling from South to North. We found that the average price is around 30 usd per day. Is there something cheaper?
thanks a lot
br,
Elina
Hey Elina, we can probably help you get a better deal on a rental through Planit NZ. I sent you an email.
Hi!
Thank you so much for your article! Quick quesetion is a guide book a must? and if so which one do you recommend. I’ve heard NZ frenzy and rough guides are great ones, but for weight purposes only want to commit to one! Thanks!
Elise
Hi Matt,
Nice blog you have here, and I found this post really interesting!
I’m planning a trip for about 6 months next year to go to New-Zealand after High school.
I will be just 18 by then, and I was wondering if that will have certain (dis)advantages or things I should be careful for? I will travel solo a lot that period of time…
Thanks and keep up the good work!
Cas
Hey Cas, coming solo I’d suggest getting a backpacker bus pass. It will be more enjoyable for you to travel with a group! This one is on sale at the moment: http://www.planitnz.com/new-zealand-tours/ultimate-new-zealand-bus-pass/
Hi Matt,
I know its a good while off yet, but just looking into all my research ready for 1 year long RTW trip starting in sept this year, and looking at spending 4/5 weeks in NZ
Have a friend in Auckland who i could possibly stay with for a few nights, but looking at doing all the normal stuff like Milford Sound, Queenstown, Lake Wanaka/Taupo, Franz Josef Glacier, Tongariro National Park. The Mountain Biking in North Island Sounds good too
Do you think 4/5 weeks is enough to do all that without rushing, i can maybe extend it to 6 weeks at a push before i head off to S America, but I think i would have to head back to Auckland to get a flight to Rio
Cheers
Matt
Hey Matt, 4/5 weeks is a great length of time. If you’re doing a hop on hop off bus pass, this leaves you with a bit of time to ‘hop off’ and explore destinations along the route that appeal to you. I’d suggest this pass with 5 weeks – presently on sale!
http://www.planitnz.com/new-zealand-tours/ultimate-new-zealand-bus-pass/
thanks for the help and info, will keep it in mind for nearer the time when i know exact dates aill be there
Hi Matt,
Thanks for all the tips!
I’m traveling to New Zealand mid February through the end of March. (About 5 weeks)
I plan on mostly staying in hostels. My question pertains to how far in advance you recommend booking hostels and certain activities(boat tours, kayaking, etc)
In the very likely event I’ll enjoy a certain area and want to stay longer I don’t want to feel worried about everything being booked in peak travel season and say “well I’d love to stay but I have a hostel reservation booked in queenstown 6 hours away”
Do you recommend booking now or can I mostly just give a couple days notice?
Any help you can provide is greatly appreciated, cheers!
Hey Max, you should most likely be okay for accommodation at that time of the year, as long as you’re not picky. Activities would be more likely to fill up, especially things like the Franz Josef Glacier Hike or the dolphin swim in Kaikoura.
http://www.planitnz.com/day-tours-and-activities/franz-josef-glacier-guided-hike
http://www.planitnz.com/day-tours-and-activities/kaikoura-dolphin-swim-tour/
Hi Matt
Great website thanks a lot!
My girlfriend and I are going travelling and will be in NZ for up to 3/4 weeks around August/September. Other places we are travelling before/after will be much warmer so we won’t have any real winter clothes with us. Do you have any advice on “warmer NZ” areas or where we could pick up some cheap winter clothes?
Thanks!!!
Further North = warmer weather!
Matt,
Great website and probably the most down-to-Earth and helpful one I’ve come across. My wife and I are heading to the South Island this week from California and we have everything pretty much planned out with some room to improvise. We plan on hiking the Routeburn Track but realized there is no mode of transportation when we pop out to the west. Our plan is to go to Milford Sound straight from the end of the hike but don’t know how to get there. Any thoughts as to how to get from the end of Routeburn to Milford? I recommended hitchhiking to her but she’s not crazy about the idea. Thanks and I’d appreciate an email if you have a spare minute! Keep up the great work!
John
Hey John – thanks for the compliments! Check out Track Net – I’m sure you could get on a Te Anau to Milford shuttle if you organized it in advance!
Hi Matt!
This was such a useful post, Thanks!
I’m heading to New Zealand in February by myself. My first stop is Christchurch for a few nights – do you have any suggestions for hostels? I’m looking for somewhere lively and as close to the centre as possible, but struggling to pick out which might be best!
Thank you,
Gemma
No problem! What’s the plan for the South Island?
I don’t have any specific accommodation suggestions in Christchurch. Heaps to choose from on Wotif though.
hi matt coming to nz march 2017 for 6 months want to backpack is it just the youngsters out there or is there room for the older ones as well just asking thanks
Plenty of oldies as well Dave! You’ll be most welcome! 🙂
Hey Matt,
Love your blog!
I know you said travel North to South but I am coming to New Zealand end of February for a year working holiday and wanted to get the most out of the warm weather still. I was thinking going straight to the South Island and migrating north as it got colder. Would you recommend that or still sticking to North to South?
Thank you for your help!
Jeffrey
I’d still go North to South and end up in Queenstown just in time for winter, QT is an epic place to be for the ski season.
Hey Matt, just go to New Zealand, your post is great for my bucket list! I came here originally with the idea of doing a working holiday visa…however, I’m traveling with huge American uni loans. I was able to make it work quite well in Australia, saved a lot of money actually. I haven’t been here long, but I can see that Queenstown is expensive….even more so than Perth or Sydney…do you think it would be possible to live here without it being paycheck to paycheck. I can’t get the best advice from other backpackers because they seem to work more for the beer, whereas I work to save…..thoughts?
Hey Ari, probably a bit harder to get ahead in New Zealand – but no question it can be done. As you mentioned just comes down to budgeting and spending less on party/pleasure. Luckily living in a place like Queenstown there’s plenty of free views / hikes to keep your free days filled, whilst still having a pretty good quality of life!
Hi!
I’m interested in working for accomodation. Would you need a working holiday visa for Wwoofing?
Thanks a lot!!
Silje
I pretty certain you still need a Working Visa if you’ll be doing WWOOFING, you’ll need to confirm with immigration!
Hey mate, sent you an email yesterday for some last minute plans. Let me know if you didn’t get it. I’d love to get some input from you, and hopefully support you a bit by booking stuff through you.
Cheers!
Cheers buddy, have responded!
Hey Matt –
Thank you so much for taking the time to write this post! In 2017/2018 I am planning to spend 3-4 months in New Zealand. I have always dreamed of backpacking, but your post makes me wonder if buying and then selling a vehicle might be the way to go. I am familiar with the great walks and the 14 national parks, but coming from the U.S. plotting a course seems very challenging at the moment. Would you be able to recommend a logical course that would allow me to see the best parts of NZ via backpacking/occasional hotel stays?
Thank you!
Hey mate, with 3-4 months you can see just about every corner of New Zealand! Check out Planit NZ for more ideas.
Hello Matt,
I am coming over to New Zealand April this year. I am 23 years old and coming by myself. I work in the legal field and have interviewed for numerous law firms via Skype. The jobs are located in Wellington, what hostel would you recommend staying in?
Also, what would be my best options to meet young travellers. Should I go straight to Wellington or start somewhere else and make my way there?
Regards
I’d go into Auckland and hop onto the Stray bus to travel the country first! We can book for you through Planit NZ if you’d like, this helps to support my work!
Hi. I am from Brazil. Tears came to my eyes as I read your post. I have been to NZ two times before.
For me, the country is the most beautiful place in the world, alongside Iceland.
My family and I will be there again in April/2016, this time to pay a special visit to West Coast, where we have not been yet.
We planned to spend 2 nights in Christchurch and hit the road towards Hokitika, via Arthur’s Pass.
We love stunning views and we intend to stay in average hotels, not hostels, in our way to Queenstown.
So, can you point us 2 or 3 places to spend our nights and get the best of West Coast, between Hokitika and Haast?
Thanks a lot.
Hi Matt!
My boyfriend and I are planning to travel through new zealand beginning in july and ending in october. Im wondering if you can tell me a bit about the weather and what to expect then? Is it true that its cold and rainy? 🙁
Thanks for the help!
Katie
Hi Katie – July until August/September is winter, so you can certainly expect cold but not necessarily wet weather!
Hi Matt! You talked a little bit about campers and how they can save a lot of money on accommodation costs, have you had any experiences with rental car / campervan relocations? I’m looking at doing one from Christchurch to Wellington for my next holiday! I found this site and it looks like a great resource, worth sharing! rentalcarrelocation.co.nz I’d love to hear your feedback or thoughts! It might be worth adding to one of your tips even?? Thanks, Jack
Hi Matt,
My boyfriend and I are going to New Zealand on 30th November to work. Where is the best place to get work? I have loads of office experience and would ideally be looking to stay in that line of work. Any advise is appreciated. Thanks, Emma
Hey Emmma, if you want office work you’re probably best in one of the main cities – Auckland or Wellington!
Hey Matt,
This morning I booked my flight from South Africa to New Zealand, and will be spending nearly a month there in December.
My main purpose of the trip is to visit my brother and his family who have just immigrated to Wellington.
I will be flying in to Auckland, and want to spend a couple of days (maybe a week?) exploring to see all the sights. I then would like to spend a good week or so with my family in Wellington (and exploring this around this area). then like to move on to the South Island, where I HAVE to experience the Fjordland etc. I am looking to have an adventure filled, outdoors, camping, hiking, climbing kind of holiday. Would you be so kind as to give me suggestions on the following please?
1) How many days to spend in Auckland and what places are the MUST SEES?
2) Should I rent a car for my time in Auckland and drive down to Wellington, or will the hop on hop off bus system be sufficient for me to get around to all the places in Auckland, and be my main way of transport down to Wellington?
3) Where are the best sport rock climbing areas?
That’s all I can think of at this point. I really am so excited to visit New Zealand, and am so happy to have come across your handy blog.
Hey Heather, either a car or a bus pass with Stray would work well for you. However, as the bus passes have a minimum time to complete the route — around 20 days for most nationwide options, it would add a bit of time to your time in NZ if you went that route. You’ll see heaps more though, and of course have the chance to meet other travellers – a bonus if you’re traveling solo!
A car rental would be heaps more expensive. You can get a nationwide pass for 849 NZD on sale at the moment, whereas you’d spend $1500+ on a car and fuel for that long of a trip in December.
I wouldn’t spend over 1-2 full days in Auckland.
Best rock climbing would be around Queenstown!
Drop us a line on matt@planitnz.com if you have questions or want to get anything booked. 🙂