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!

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.

Lisa Andrews2 Comments