The land of Hobbits, spectacular nature, a surfing paradise, and every nature enthusiast’s dream-come-true, New Zealand often gets a bad rap for being remote and difficult to reach, let alone traverse. Yet, the reality of traveling to this slice of Eden and exploring it is quite different, which has been confirmed by numerous travelers who have given it a fair chance on their bucket lists. If you’re eager to go but tempted not to for the sheer fear of not being able to get around with ease, we’re here to do some myth-busting, supported by facts, of course.
Here are several tips you can use to make your travels to New Zealand far more comfortable, better organized, and more exciting, so that you can eliminate some of those common travel frustrations and focus solely on having fun and making memories!
Bring your own ride
Digital nomads, globetrotters, and all kinds of traveling workers will instantly recognize the perk of this particular approach. First of all, if you intend to be in New Zealand for more than a few weeks, or even longer than a couple of months, then it makes sense to rely on your own car or a campervan, whichever suits your lifestyle more.
You have two options: have your car transported with you from your home country, or buy one when you arrive. Both options have their perks, but at the end of the day, you’ll have a vehicle at your disposal for every picnic, nature expedition, and grocery shopping you choose to schedule on your own time.
Consider getting a rental
Even though you typically don’t think of Australia and New Zealand as the most affordable destinations, renting a vehicle for the duration of your stay might turn out to be the best thing you can do for your overall travel budget. In New Zealand, you have various cheap car rental options at your disposal, even when you plan to travel from one island to another and explore both part of the New Zealand territory.
As an eco-conscious land, you’ll also have a choice of hybrid vehicles to minimize your carbon footprint, and safeguard the precious environment the locals are so rightfully proud of. If you’re planning to travel with kids, you’re also able to look into different vehicles with high safety ratings, so that you can have a peace of mind no matter where you go.
Use the railway
One of the safest, most Zen way to travel all over this charming country is definitely by train. Their well-developed railway, friendly locals, and stunning scenery combine into a wonderful adventure you can take both alone and with your travel companions – the comfort level remains the same.
In fact, even if you go to New Zealand with your own car, please do book a few train rides while you’re there. The vistas alone will be more than enough to keep you occupied from one destination to another. The famous TranzAlpine Trail is one of those bucket list-worthy experiences you should treat yourself to, as the inland is every bit as beautiful as the coastal regions you’ll have the chance to explore.
Put your legs to work
You haven’t been to New Zealand unless you’ve allowed yourself to see its finest corners on foot, as all devoted hikers will agree. The country is literally riddled with tracks and walking routes perfect for hikers of all levels, all it takes is to do some research depending on the time and duration of your travel, and you’re good to go. Rob Roy Glacier Track in Mt Aspiring National Park, Key Summit in Fiordland National Park and Routeburn Falls Hut in Mount Aspiring National Park can be recommended as the best hiking destinations in New Zealand.
Even newbies among you can try this manner of travel as you can join known guided walking tours and backpacking trails that will take you to some of the most breathtaking landscape segments of the country. In fact, seeing them this up-close and personal is the best possible way to experience them at all. The most important tip here is to be aware of different weather conditions, so brace yourself for hot summers in case you choose to explore New Zealand in that time of the year, and always ask the local guides for advice on how to prepare.
Learn all about their air travel
If this is your first visit, you may be surprised to learn that Auckland is not the only airport, albeit it is the busiest one, you have at your disposal. In fact, with around 25 different airports and numerous international and domestic airlines regularly flying in and out of the country, you can make the most of your time there if you hop from one part of the country to the other via an airplane.
Keep in mind that local flights can be sold out very quickly considering the fact that they have smaller plains available, so always check your itinerary well in advance if you plan to use flight as your key mode of travel while you’re there. Book early, make sure you cover all the costs (because baggage and food may cost extra), and you’ll have an easy time making it around the country.
The beauty of New Zealand certainly deserves your undivided attention, so it’s best to make your travel plans as clear as possible early on – well before you set sail. Use these tips to diversify your modes of travel and enjoy your trip to this majestic land of the South Pacific!