New Zealand. A land of contrasts.

We’re here to take the guesswork out of your trip, and if you opt for a private driver, you’ll have their knowledge at your disposal any time you need it. However it’s always good to know the basics before you embark upon any trip. We’ve compiled an honest, helpful collection of tips and information to consider when planning your New Zealand vacation.

About Aotearoa New Zealand

New Zealand Information

  • Population: 5 million

  • Language: English, Sign, Te Reo (Māori)

  • Money: NZ Dollars (about 2 to 1.65 USD)

  • Capital: Wellington

  • Biggest City: Auckland (population 1.7 million)

  • Size: 268,021 km² (103,883 Sq.Miles)

  • Length to drive: 2,090 km (1,298 miles)

  • Drive on the left side of the road

  • Uses the metric system

  • Summer opposite to Northern hemisphere

Fun Facts

  • The Māori name is Aotearoa

  • “Kia ora” is the Māori greeting

  • More coastline than the continental USA

  • Crazy about Rugby

  • Voted least corrupt country in the world

  • The first country in the world to see the new day

  • Still part of the British Commonwealth

  • Australia is 4,157 km (2,583 miles) away

  • Sorry, no Hobbits only were they lived

  • The place were Bungy jumping started

New Zealand’s Main Cities and Regions

New Zealand has four main cities, and is divided into 16 very diverse regions. We’ve compiled a short guide to each region’s unique characteristics and attractions to help you, especially if you have limited time for your vacation.

NZ cities & regions

When to Go

  • Spring

    September, October, November

    Average Temperature 19 °C (67 °F)

    The weather’s warming up, attractions are getting busier, and the days are getting longer – a great time to really pack a lot into your day. There will be rain showers but it’s worth it for the rainbows and waterfalls. NZ’s Great Walks start opening up again too (these need to be booked well in advance – often up to six months ahead).

  • Summer

    December, January, February

    Average Temperature 23 °C (75 °F)

    Summer travel can be bliss. However, from late December through to February, it’s peak season, so for some attractions there may be crowds. Make sure you book at least six months out for the best choice of accommodation, especially in premium holiday spots near the coast.

  • Autumn

    March, April, May

    Average Temperature 19 °C (67 °F)

    Usually with warm days and cool nights, the temperature is comfortable enough to allow a huge variety of activities, from beach swimming and kayaking through to thermal pools and day hikes. In the South Island, you will also enjoy the array of autumn colour and, yes, you could even include a stop at a world-class vineyard.

  • Winter

    June, July, August

    Average Temperature 13 °C (55 °F)

    Spectacular winter scenery and fewer travellers makes this a great time to travel. The ski season is open June to October, with the best skiing usually from July to September. Although some of the main nature walks are closed at this time, short walks are usually still very accessible.