How many days do I need in New Zealand?


How many days do I need in New Zealand? New Zealand is a relatively compact country, so you can see most of the country's highlights in two weeks. To explore more of the regions and get off the beaten track, you could easily spend three weeks or more exploring.


Is 10 days enough for New Zealand?

For a 10-day trip, we recommend visiting up to four or five different destinations. Our 10-day itinerary locations are some of the most popular: Auckland the City of Sails, Wellington the cultural, art and food capital, and Queenstown the home of world-class adrenaline activities.


Should I skip North Island NZ?

It's a no-brainer that if you are travelling to New Zealand for more than a couple of weeks, you should visit both islands! Yet, with limited time off work and/or a limited budget, you may have no other choice than to make the most of either the North Island or South Island. One island isn't “better” than the other.


Is New Zealand an expensive country?

The cost of living in New Zealand, for one person in a major city, is between NZ$3,000-NZ$4,000 per month. A family of four can expect to need NZ$5,000-NZ$6,000 per month to live.


Do I need a car in New Zealand?

You don't need to drive to see New Zealand. Take the bus or train and you can enjoy the same scenery without the responsibility of driving in an unfamiliar environment. In some places you can travel by ferry. Travelling by plane is quick and convenient.


Is 5 days in New Zealand enough?

Five days may seem short, but allows for an eventful adventure through New Zealand. Since there is not much time, it is ideal to travel within the South Island or the North Island—which budgets for a successful road trip with a few scenic stops.


How long do you need to drive around New Zealand?

How Long Does it Take to Drive Around New Zealand? Driving around New Zealand can take anywhere between 30 hours, if driving from top to bottom and taking the ferry between the North and South Island, to 65 hours if doing a thorough road trip of both islands with the ferry included.


Is it expensive to go to New Zealand?

Is New Zealand expensive to visit? New Zealand isn't cheap! Activities, car rentals and accommodations can really add up, making a trip to New Zealand very expensive. Eating in Aotearoa, whether in restaurants or even buying things from the grocery store, can be pricy as many of their goods are imported.


Can you do New Zealand in 11 days?

This self-drive tour covers the North and South islands, ideal for travelers who want to see a lot in 11 days while maintaining control of their schedule. You'll explore New Zealand's largest, most diverse city, Auckland, and slowly make your way down to Queenstown, surrounded by The Remarkables.


Which is the cheapest month to fly to New Zealand?

Top tips for finding cheap flights to New Zealand. High season is considered to be January, November and December. The cheapest month to fly from the United States is August. Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest New Zealand flight deals.


How much time is enough in New Zealand?

If time and funds allow then we recommend three weeks for a more in-depth experience, you may be coming a long way to New Zealand so it's worth a proper look around. Backpackers might spend 1-2 months in the country but anyone that wants the best of New Zealand in a shorter time frame should aim for 2-3 weeks.


Which island of New Zealand is prettier?

The South Island is very different from the North Island. For starters it's larger than the North Island and generally considered more beautiful. It also has gorgeous coastline, though it's best known for the many mountains and fjords that define its inland.


Can you do New Zealand in 1 week?

Seeing New Zealand in 1 week is possible, but it will require early starts and long days. Personally, I'd ditch the car idea and fly between four major stops - Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown - to save time.


Is New Zealand North or South Island better?

Generally speaking, if you want to engage with city culture or explore Maori history, the North Island is for you. If you want to deep-dive into nature, the South Island has plenty of lakes, mountains, fjords, and glaciers to discover.