New Zealand Vacations

New Zealand is known for its unique and vibrant culture that reflects a rich history of Māori indigenous heritage, European colonial influence, and a modern multicultural society. Here are some key aspects of New Zealand's culture: 

Māori Influence

The Māori people, who arrived in New Zealand around 700 years ago, have had a profound impact on the country's culture. Their language, Te Reo Māori, along with English are New Zealand's official languages, and their traditional arts, such as carving and weaving, are still celebrated and practiced today. In recent years, New Zealand has debated changing their name to Aotearoa, a Māori word for the region that translates to "The Land of the Long White Cloud." New Zealand's famous All-Blacks Rugby team begin every match with a haka war dance, and just as Australians say "G'day", Kiwis are known to use a Māori greeting: kia ora.

Kiwi Lifestyle

New Zealanders, often referred to as Kiwis, have a laid-back and friendly lifestyle. The country's stunning natural landscapes and outdoor recreational activities like hiking, surfing, and rugby are integral to Kiwi culture. Outdoor barbecue gatherings, known as "BBQs," are popular social events where friends and family come together to enjoy good food and company. 

Multiculturalism

New Zealand has a diverse and inclusive society, with people from various cultural backgrounds coexisting harmoniously. The country's immigration policies have led to a blend of cultures and traditions, enriching the overall cultural landscape. Festivals and events celebrating different cultures are common, and this diversity is celebrated in daily life. 

Arts & Innovation

New Zealand has a thriving arts and creative scene. From celebrated filmmakers like Peter Jackson to renowned authors like Katherine Mansfield, the country has made its mark on the world of arts and literature. The Māori arts, such as kapa haka (traditional performing arts), are also essential components of the cultural tapestry. 

In essence, New Zealand's culture is a dynamic mix of tradition and modernity, with a strong connection to its stunning natural surroundings. This unique blend of influences has shaped a warm, welcoming, and diverse society that prides itself on its cultural heritage and inclusivity.

Where to vacation in New Zealand?

New Zealand is bursting with vacation options. The most popular sites on the North Island include Auckland, the capital Wellington, the Coromandel Peninsula, and the Bay of Islands. On the South Island, travellers will want to take in the cities of Christchurch and Queenstown and cruise Milford Sound. But this is only a start. New Zealand is an easy country to travel through with many travel options beyond the tourist trail, so get in touch with a Goway Destination Specialist to discuss a tailor-made trip today.

When is summer vacation in New Zealand?

Summer holidays in New Zealand are from mid-to-late December to late January, which overlaps with the Christmas holiday season. However, many New Zealanders will take their holidays earlier in December or later in February or March, depending on their schedules.

Do I need a visa to travel to New Zealand?

You need a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) when travelling to New Zealand as a tourist. Your NZeTA needs to be approved prior to departing for New Zealand. You can apply via the NZeTA mobile app.

How long can you vacation in New Zealand?

With an NZeTA, which is often used in place of a travel visa, you can stay in New Zealand for up to three months at a time. You can also return to the country later in the same year, staying for a total of six months over a single calendar year.

Australia or New Zealand: which is better for a vacation?

Due to their geographic proximity and their similar cultures, Australia and New Zealand are often compared to each other. However, each country has its own distinct appeal and both nations make for wonderful places to visit. You can read this article that breaks down some of the differences between the two nations for travellers, but you ought to visit both to experience the full wonders of Oceania for yourself.

Do I need a passport to travel to New Zealand?

Yes, you need a valid passport to travel to New Zealand as an American or Canadian. You won’t be allowed to board your plane without it.

What time of year would you plan a ski vacation in New Zealand?

Typically, the best time of year to plan a ski vacation in New Zealand is the winter from June to September. July and August are the peak months with the best chance for snowy conditions in the Southern Alps. Daytime highs average between 23°F and 32°F (–5°C and 0°C), so the temperature is typically great for long days on the slopes.

What is the best way to see New Zealand?

The best way to explore New Zealand is on a tailor-made vacation that caters to your individual interests. Do you want to visit filming locations from The Lord of the Rings, go whale watching along the coastline, or hit up the trendiest cafes of the cities of Wellington, Auckland, and Christchurch? Everyone has their own style of travel. Discover tailor-made travel in New Zealand with the help of a Goway Destination Specialist.

Can I drink New Zealand’s tap water?

Yes, the tap water is safe in most centres in New Zealand. In fact, New Zealand’s cities have some of the cleanest water in the world. However, in rural areas, you should check if the water is safe to drink (for instance, you’ll see signs on taps in campgrounds indicating whether the water is potable (drinkable) or not). In general, save yourself money and help the environment by travelling with a reusable water bottle.

Do I need to tip in New Zealand?

You don’t need to tip in New Zealand, unless you want to express some extra gratitude for great service. Service charges are included in bills, so everything additional is up to you.

What side of the road do you drive on in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, people drive on the left side of the road. If you plan to rent a car, you’ll have to get used to the difference in roads as well as the placement of the driver’s seat within vehicles.

What is the official language in New Zealand?

The official languages of New Zealand are English and Māori. Signage and place names throughout the nation are often bilingual. 

What currency is used in New Zealand?

The currency used throughout the country is the New Zealand dollar (NZD). New Zealand has a favourable exchange rate for North American travellers. Typically, USD $1 converts to NZD $1.7. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, and ATMs are very common.

Is there transportation within New Zealand?

The best way to get around New Zealand include travelling by a tour bus, car or motorhome rental or even a selection of ferries and trains for longer distances. However, you can easily fly between major cities. You can also purchase passes that cover the national Intercity coach network, the three scenic rail journeys, and the Cook Strait ferry passage.

How welcoming is New Zealand to LGBTQ+ travellers?

New Zealand is one of the friendliest and most welcoming nations in the world. New Zealand is well known for its diversity and has strong laws that protect travellers from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. 

New Zealand offers a delectable culinary experience that reflects its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Globetrotters on New Zealand vacations should indulge in a variety of unique dishes and beverages that showcase the country's culinary prowess. 

One iconic New Zealand dish is the hangi, a traditional Māori method of cooking. This involves slow-cooking meat and vegetables in an earth oven, resulting in a smoky, flavourful feast. Another must-try is the iconic "Pavlova," a dessert named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova. This meringue-based treat has a crisp crust, soft inside, and is typically topped with fresh fruits like kiwi and berries, offering a delightful blend of textures and tastes. 

Seafood lovers will find paradise in New Zealand, with its pristine waters teeming with delicacies such as green-lipped mussels, Bluff oysters, and succulent crayfish. Pair these ocean delights with a glass of locally produced Sauvignon Blanc, as New Zealand is renowned for its world-class wines. 

If you’re seeking a snack on the go, the beloved "Pies" is a Kiwi staple. Whether filled with savoury minced meat, vegetables, or sweet fruit, these handheld delights are perfect for a quick and satisfying bite. 

To wash down these culinary delights, try a traditional Maori drink called Kawakawa tea, made from native Kawakawa leaves. You could also indulge in the world-famous New Zealand flat white, a coffee beverage that perfectly balances espresso and velvety steamed milk.