HOW LONG SHOULD I SPEND IN NEW ZEALAND?
After two days in New Zealand, you may very well wish to stay, such is the allure of its unspoiled landscapes and appealing lifestyle. About twice the size of New York state, it is easily navigable and two weeks will allow you to encompass many of the most desirable locations.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT NEW ZEALAND?
This question can only be answered by you. If you are searching for warmer days, coastal sojourns, sailing and wineland strolls, the summer months of December to February are better suited. If you prefer laying the clothing for some snow time or rugged hikes, winter (June to August) may be more suitable. The south island can be divided into these two halves of the year; sun or snow. But the north island can become quite wet through the winter months, and while the mountains may be snowcapped, the lowlands can be rainy and drab.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM ACCOMMODATION IN NEW ZEALAND?
Contemporary inventiveness meets classic colonial in New Zealand. Some properties hark back to the homesteads of the sheep-farming early settlers, while chic, modern lodges are sensitively designed to melt into the surrounding landscapes. Each in its own way, these contrasting styles exude luxury and comfort, and New Zealand has no shortage of accommodations absolutely oozing with the ‘wow’ factor.
OTHER NEW ZEALAND DETAILS:
An NZeTA visa is required for entry into New Zealand and an additional International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) may also be required for international visitors.
Major airlines fly direct from the US to New Zealand’s Aukland International airport, with several other airports servicing flights across the country, and to Australia and Asia. Transportation across New Zealand is of an excellent standard, though more remote destinations may require a little more planning.
Though English is the national language, you will notice Māori place names and words used frequently. Locals are more than happy to help you with pronunciations, though this won’t impose any significant language barrier. New Zealand is a culinary paradise, and the nation is rapidly becoming revered and a global foodie hotspot, particularly for its fresh seafood and innovative flair. Often creatively modern, New Zealanders of all heritage are proud of the country’s Māori culture, and this influence is creeping its way into kitchens at every level, from small-town café to fine-dining restaurant.
Every dietary requirement can be easily catered to, and it is well worth searching out the more traditional foods, particularly the hāngī – usually lamb or fish with vegetables that is wrapped and slow-cooked in an underground hot-stone oven.
