New Zealand Travel Facts

The Basics

Country: New Zealand

Where is it?: Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, southeast of Australia

Why do people go here?: Lord of the Rings! It’s where the hobbits live! For those less LOTR inclined, there is the staggering natural beauty of mountains, glaciers (you can hike ‘em!), lakes and rock formations. There are also vibrant Maori communities, with fascinating, detailed histories. Whale spotting, dolphin swimming and wine drinking are also part of the itinerary on these islands. Those who make it to the tiny third island, Stewart, can see the penguins and other wildlife as well.

What are the main entry points?: The capital is Wellington, but it is most common to fly into Auckland or if you want to arrive on the south island, Christchurch.

Currency used: New Zealand dollar (NZD)

Country Code: 64

Area codes for Major Cities: Auckland 9, Christchurch 3, Wellington 4

Religion: Anglican 24%, Presbyterian 18%, Roman Catholic 15%, Methodist 5%, Baptist 2%, other Protestant 3%, unspecified or none 33%

Population: 4.3 million

Ethnic Breakdown: New Zealand European 74.5%, Maori 9.7%, other European 4.6%, Pacific Islander 3.8%, Asian and others 7.4%

Government: Parliamentary democracy

Languages: English (official), Maori (official)

Travel Information

Major Cities: Wellington, Christchurch, Auckland

Attractions: Mountains, Lakes, Sheep, Maori People, Jade

Accommodation: New Zealand Hotels,New Zealand Hostels

Tourism Office locations and links: New Zealand-Tourist & Publicity P.O. Box 95 Wellington, New Zealand +64-4-728-860;; FAX +64-4-781-736; discovernz.co.nz

Off-the Beaten Path: Mangonui, Nevins, Mount Damper Falls, Whatipu Beach

Health Issues: No vaccination requirements for any international traveller.

Tips for Visiting

When to go: If you’re into scenery and wish to visit the beautiful south island, avoid the chilly, wet winter months from June to October as the west coast is particularly cold due to arctic winds.

Specific Events/Holidays: Waitangi Day (Treaty of Waitangi established British sovereignty over New Zealand), 6 February (1840)

Getting Around: There are a number of organized hop on, hop off bus companies, and non tourist ones as well. Hiring a car is also an option.

Good to know: New Zealand is known as the most livable country in the world.

Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airports to fly into New Zealand are Auckland Airport, Christchurch Airport, Wellington Airport and Queenstown International Airport. To obtain a cheap rate, choose the airport that is near to your trip destination.

Need more information?: Check out the New Zealand travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.