Expert Guide to Planning a Bucketlist Trip to New Zealand
This week Beth Vermillion joins us to share everything you need to know about planning an amazing family trip to New Zealand!
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How should I get to New Zealand?
You will need to travel by plane to get to New Zealand.
Flying from LAX or SFO will get you the best cash price.
If you want to wait for better flight prices, you can set alerts on Google Flights to notify you when prices drop.
Thrifty Traveler and Going are paid services that can help you find the best flight deals.
When Beth traveled with her family, they flew to Sydney, Australia using credit card points, and then paid in cash for tickets to New Zealand.
Where should I visit/stay in New Zealand?
Make time to visit both islands! If you’re traveling this far, make it worth your time!
Try to plan at least 10-14 days to see both islands.
Keep in mind that seasons are opposite from the Northern Hemisphere! So traveling during our winter might be best.
Be aware that even if you have long drives between cities, it is so beautiful! The drives are beautiful!!
Try to stay in Air B&B’s outside of the big cities. Go see the countryside! You can check out the places Beth and her family stayed HERE.
This also allows you to have more space with your family.
Auckland
This is a great city to visit! Beth recommends staying just outside of the city.
Near Auckland you can visit Hobbiton if you’re a fan of The Hobbit!
Waitomo
You can either make this city a day trip or stay one night here.
It’s worth visiting as it has glow worm caves that you can go inside. If you have older kids, do the Black Water Adventures!
You can also take a canoe or tube through the caves.
Rotorua
This is a great place to experience more of the Maori culture.
There are lots of Maori villages that you can tour.
You can also visit a mud bath!
There are also alpine-type slides.
Queenstown
This is the first city on the south island!
There is SO much to do here. Don’t get overwhelmed. Everything is amazing, and you have to know that you won’t be able to do it all.
Bungy jumping is very popular here.
Milford Sound is a breathtaking area full of waterfalls and amazing views. Beth says this is a MUST do!
Mt. Cook is an amazing National Park. There are hikes of all levels here!
How do I get around?
You will probably want to rent a car. Book a car as far out in advance as you can, as they sell out!
Beth and her family rented a car on both islands.
DiscoverCars.com is a good resource to look for car options.
Be sure to check prices for different dates and locations to find the best deal.
Do I need a visa to visit NZ?
Not technically a visa, but you do need a NZ ETA.
You can get this easily online for $23 New Zealand dollars.
If you use their app, it’s a little cheaper.
Will my phone work?
Beth recommends getting a SIM card once you’re in NZ for about $40. This will provide you with cell service around the country.
At the end of your trip, simply put your own SIM card back in.
What foods should I try?
Beth recommends eating Indian food here!
They are also known for their cheese.
Fish and chips.
Other tips
Join a Facebook group for the area you’re going to visit before you go!
This is a great way to get real-time updates on the area you are visiting.
Even though it’s far away. It’s worth the visit!
Pack a raincoat! It rains often, even if it’s misty.