Milford Sound
New Zealand is a photographers dream, offering stunning vistas in every direction. The 9 Great Walks are a unique way to experience the vast range of landscapes, from dramatic coastlines to sublime rainforests (Find out more here: http://bit.ly/2IpPEFe). Skiing and surfing are also hugely popular around the country, with events held throughout the year. However, this doesn’t mean that New Zealand isn’t a mellow holiday! Kiwis generally have a pretty relaxed way of life. Everything just seems to run smoothly, with little frustrations along the way. You may also be glad to hear that the country is completely snake-free!
Urapukapuka Island, Bay of Islands
Weather
The seasons in New Zealand are pretty much the opposite of ours. Fortunately this means it’s the perfect destination for some sun when the weather isn’t treating us very well over here. December to February is high season, so this is when beaches will be at their busiest and prices are highest. March to April is prime time to visit as the weather is still lovely but costs are lower and attractions won’t be as packed.
Spring – September to November (Average 16 - 19˚C)
Summer – December to February (Average 20 - 25˚C)
Autumn – March to May (Average 17 - 21˚C)
Winter – June to August (Average 12 - 16˚C)
Lake Tekapo
Budgeting
The currency is New Zealand Dollars. You can arrange a currency exchange before you travel, purchase a currency card, or exchange money once you have arrived.
We have included below some average costs to help you budget for your trip.
Accommodation
1 Night in a Budget Double Room: £10 - £30
1 Night in a Double Room: £50 - £150
1 Night in a Luxury Room - £150+
Food
Budget Meal: £1 - £15
Restaurant Meal: £10 - £30
Luxury Restaurant Meal: £50 - £100
Extras
InterCity Bus Pass: £70 - £285 (depending on how many hours)
Car Rental: £20+ a day
Domestic Flights: £50+
Museum: £5+
Tipping
Tipping is generally optional when in New Zealand. 5 - 10% if your happy with your service in a restaurant is sufficient, and tour guides will happily accept a fair tip.
Queenstown
Food
Aside from the staple barbecues and British influenced classics such as fish and chips, New Zealand cuisine offers a whole range of flavours! Due to the constant proximity to the 14000 kilometre coast, seafood is incredibly popular, and chefs are always developing new and exciting ways to cook it. The local lamb is also renowned for being succulent and tender, and you will be able to find it paired with seasonal vegetables on plenty of menus. Vegetarian and vegan dishes are also growing in popularity and inventiveness so there will always be something to suit you.
Hāngi – This is a traditional method of cooking from New Zealand Māori culture involving cooking tasty, tender meat and vegetables over hot stones in a pit for hours at a time.
Cheese and Wine – With award-winning wines and cheeses, this a must do whilst visiting. Whitestone, Kapiti and Puhoi Valley are the top cheese brands to keep an eye out for, paired with a delicious pinot noir, sauvignon blanc or merlot wine.
Visa Wellington on a Plate Festival – This festival takes place over the last two weeks of August (10th-26th August 2018) in the beautiful capital city. Sample traditional and new culinary delights and experience food in exciting ways at one of over 100 event options.
Marlborough district
Phrases
There are 3 official languages of New Zealand; English, Māori, and New Zealand Sign Language. English is still the predominant language so we’ve gathered some phrases you may not of heard before that are often used by New Zealanders!
Kia Ora
Hello (Māori)
Choice!
A frequently used word to express a variety of positive emotions!
Chilly bin
An ice box or cooler
Tiki tour
Taking the scenic/long route
Auckland
Interesting Facts
1. The longest place name in the world is in Hawkes Bay, New Zealand. Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu is a 305 metre hill, often shortened to Taumata.
2. The famous Ninety Mile Beach is actually only 88 kilometres long!
3. New Zealand is a similar size to the UK, however the population is less than 5 million, compared to over 65 million here.
4. Blue Lake in Nelson Lakes National Park has the clearest water on the planet with visibility of up to 262ft.
Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu
Call 0161 440 6735 to book your next adventure to New Zealand!