New Zealand’s rocky coastline and great national parks just have to be explored. The scenery is spectacular. Beaches, vineyards, glaciers, snow-capped mountains, raging rivers and vast lakes all jostle for attention. Add to that a few cities, a thriving Maori culture and generous, warm-hearted people and you have New Zealand, a backpackers dream.
Buy a vehicle
If you’re spending more than a couple of months, buying a vehicle often works out cheaper than renting as there’s high demand for budget cars and vans. Check hostel notice boards and online sites such as Trade Me. If you’re in Auckland, pop along to Ellerslie Car fair. You needn’t worry about getting Sat Nav as it’s almost impossible to get lost.
Park up or pitch a tent
In New Zealand, sleeping under the stars is a brilliant experience. You can find holiday parks with luxury facilities, or very basic free campsites without water to serviced sites with a daily charge and freedom camping – generally for self-contained camper vans only. If you’re a freedom camper, beware the “no camping” signs - or you could be fined.The online map at Rankers of Aotearoa is a brilliant resource for forward planning.
Learn some local lingo
Just like the Aussies, Kiwis have their own way of saying things. In addition to “bro” or “sweet as”, useful terms include “togs” (swimming costumes), “dairy” (corner shop or convenience store), “chilly bin” (cool box), “tramping” (hiking) and “jandals” (sandals).
Prepare for all weather
New Zealand is not huge, but it can be noticeably colder on the south island compared to the north. Outside of summer it can get chilly everywhere, and all year-round the weather is changeable, so be prepared for sudden drops in temperature and downpours. Layers are key, a rain jacket essential, and quick drying clothing a godsend. Remember, UV rays here are harsh, so get a sun hat and a high factor cream.
Work hard, play hard
It’s possible to find temporary work in order to pay for all the delicious coffee (and Sauvignon Blanc) you’ll be drinking, so if the idea of milking cows in Waikato or picking grapes in Marlborough appeals, it’s a great way to extend your stay. Online, you can find grassroots schemes where you receive food or accommodation in exchange for hard work (WWOOF, FHiNZ, Help Exchange) or pick up some casual work for pay. You’ll need a work visa. If you’re aged 18–30, you can take part in the Working Holiday Scheme (WHS) and live, work and travel anywhere in the country for up to 23 months if you’re from the UK.
Invest in a travel pass
Investing in a travel pass will save you cash. InterCity/Newmans operate a hop-on-hop-off service and you can get a FlexiPass loaded with hours that, crucially, can be sold to another traveller if you have any left over. There’s also the cheap and cheerful backpacker buses such as Flying Kiwi, Haka, Stray and Kiwi Experience. For the train, invest in a fixed or freedom pass with KiwiRail.
Book ahead in high season
Everywhere gets extremely busy from December to March. Towns and cities such as Queenstown, Wanaka and Christchurch are gateways to nearby ski resorts and have another high season from July to September, especially at weekends. The same goes for organised outdoor activities, so book ahead if possible.
Get covered
It’s essential you obtain good travel insurance for a trip to New Zealand. The country is one big outdoor playground and you might find yourself being more adventurous than you thought. And be aware that hazardous activities require specific cover and may not be included in a standard policy.
Make time for Wellington
New Zealand’s capital deserves more of your time than a few photographs taken in Hobbiton Woods and the Gardens of Isengard. Before making the short hop across to the south island, savour the cultural vibe and the craft beers, food trucks and flat whites on and around Cuba Street, and don’t forget the striking Te Papa Museum.
Travel light
Remember: a small bag means you can’t overdo your packing. Travelling light means freedom! Take good quality lightweight clothing that folds up small and is quick drying – and make sure you take a good quality GORE-TEX jacket. You won’t need loads of toiletries, just the basics. A tiny one-man tent means you can hop off the bus and hike to backcountry campsites.
Title Image Credit: Bernard Spragg. NZ (Image Cropped)