BACKPACKING IN NEW ZEALAND: THE ULTIMATE 2024 TRAVEL GUIDE

The most southern country in the world apart from Antarctica, New Zealand often feels so far away that it could practically be on a different planet. When backpacking in New Zealand it can be quite difficult to determine the best route for your trip. Should you focus on one of the islands or try to see the best of the north and south? 

Visiting this green paradise immerses you in a picturesque Pacific atmosphere; with links to Tolkien’s Middle Earth, the ever-changing weather and incredible Maori culture, this cultural melting pot is the perfect setting for an unforgettable backpacking trip.

As a result, it can be difficult to know where to go in New Zealand for the first time, with every place seemingly calling your name. That’s why, to make it a bit easier, we scoured and hunted for the absolute best places to visit in New Zealand.

Christchurch is situated on the south island of New Zealand and is known for its English heritage and stunning surrounding landscapes. It’s a major stop for backpacking in New Zealand as you can explore top sites like Cathedral Square and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, which are great places to unwind and take in the city’s splendour. 

Christchurch is a gateway to some of New Zealand’s most gorgeous natural landscapes, making it a great place to visit for day trips. Some of the best day trips from Christchurch include Akaroa, a French colonial village known for its Hector’s dolphins tours and Arthur’s Pass National Park, which has breathtaking scenery and alpine trekking routes.

Found on the South Island, Queenstown is unequivocally the adventure capital of New Zealand. It’s here that travellers can hike the towering peaks of the Southern Alps and seek adventure and adrenaline on the sparkling waters of Lake Wakatipu. There are thrills aplenty in this lively city, with jet boat rides and paragliding tours being just some of the wonderful things to do in Queenstown. 

The area itself is beautiful, with some of the best scenery in the country, and options to cycle around the lake or set off on a cruise. Plus, there’s a buzzing nightlife in Queenstown, with plenty of bars and restaurants dotting the city centre. After a day of adrenaline activities, you can unwind in trendy bars and enjoy cocktails in the crisp New Zealand air.

The largest city in New Zealand, (and also the most populated) Auckland is on the North Island and is known worldwide for its fantastic foodie culture. The Auckland Harbour Bridge has some of the best views in New Zealand, and the oldest part of the city – the Auckland Domain – is full of hidden treasures and wonders surrounding the history and heritage of New Zealand. 

It’s here that travellers and historians alike come to witness the Maori and Pacific Island artefact exhibits in the Auckland Museum. It’s a great place to visit while backpacking in New Zealand as you can immerse yourself in local heritage whilst enjoying the modern delights of this Pacific metropolis.

Everyone who visits New Zealand always makes a stop at the Bay of Islands – it’s practically a rite of passage for any traveller. It’s one of the best places to go if you’re backpacking through New Zealand, as there are 144 subtropical islands to explore. If you’d like to continue this tradition, and we highly recommend that you do, then have a stop in Paihia. 

The small-town feel of the place gives off that local community atmosphere, but don’t be fooled into thinking there’s nothing here. In fact, there’s plenty of opportunity to swim with dolphins or go scuba diving to visit the Rainbow Warrior, an immense underwater shipwreck. If diving isn’t for you, consider a glass-bottomed boat ride to other natural wonders like the Hole in the Rock.

The thermal wonderland of New Zealand, Rotorua is the place to see any number of volcanic happenings or visit the hot springs and geysers that can be found in and around the city. Typically, these have been protected in parks and reserves, but that doesn’t mean they’re not open to visitors. There are natural eruptions occurring all the time, and the nearby Wai-O-Tapu is well noted by many keen travellers for the colourful appearance of the hot springs.

If you’re keen to get muddy and let the rejuvenating qualities of the hot springs melt your troubles away, then you’ll want to visit Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park. This reserve is the most active geothermal area in Rotorua, allowing visitors to tour the geothermal springs on guided walks. You can even dip into the healing waters and enjoy a soothing sulphur bath to round out the day.

The sunniest place in New Zealand with the greatest number of sunshine hours per year in the whole country, Nelson is popular thanks to its fantastic climate and the numerous national parks that line the city’s boundaries. It’s a great place to stop while backpacking in New Zealand for a quick break to soak up the sun and enjoy some downtime between high-energy activities. 

Nelson is the perfect place to go while backpacking New Zealand in the summer, thanks to the extensive options for outdoor recreation. Backpackers in New Zealand come to Nelson to see Abel Tasman National Park and its coastal wonders. Similarly, you can enjoy a hit of culture in Founder’s Heritage Park to get a taste of the island’s fascinating history.

New Zealand is known for its immaculate natural parks and Fjordland is one of the best places to visit if you want to lose yourself in nature. One of the best things to do in New Zealand is explore the stunning fjords like Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, where the glacier-carved valleys capture the island’s innate beauty. 

It’s one of the best places to visit in New Zealand for wildlife spotting as well. The area is home to a range of species including kea, takahe, kiwi, and fur seals. On a cruise through Fiordland, you can observe these animals in their natural habitats as well as experience the grandeur of the towering peaks and cascading waterfalls.

Having covered some of the best places to visit in New Zealand, we also want to highlight some of the amazing experiences that you can have on this island paradise. From exploring the best vineyards in New Zealand to adrenaline-pumping excursions, there are so many exceptional opportunities that await in the Land of the Long White Cloud. 

While the beauty of New Zealand scenery is best experienced in the light of day, there are some wonders that can be observed once the sun sets. Stargazing in New Zealand is a great way to spend an evening and allows backpackers to make the most of their time in Pacific Paradise. If you’re eager to see the postcard-perfect night sky, then be sure to make a stop at Lake Tekapo. 

Stargazing at Lake Tekapo is some of the best in the country as it is located within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, so there is minimal light pollution. The sky above the lake is littered with stars, constellations and on rare occasions, you may even get a glimpse of the Aurora Australis, the Southern Lights.

One of the best things to do in New Zealand is to hop around the different coastal islands, allowing you to experience a splendid beach holiday between nature walks and cultural excursions. There are plenty of islands near New Zealand that can easily be visited on day trips and tours, letting you experience a whole different side of the country. 

Waiheke Island is a clear standout, known for its vineyards, beaches and artistic ambience. It’s just a short 35 minute ferry ride from Auckland, making it a very popular destination for day trips in New Zealand. Whether you go paddle boarding on Onera Beach or enjoy wine tastings at world-class vineyards, you are certain to fall in love with this island in New Zealand.

The Maoris were the first people to inhabit New Zealand roughly 1000 years ago, arriving from their mythical Polynesian homeland of Hawaiki and contributing irreversibly to New Zealand culture as it stands today. From the place names that dot the country, to the famous “haka” that precedes every All Blacks rugby match, Maori culture is everywhere.

Rotorua is the heart of Maori culture, with many travellers heading to Marae, a Maori Meeting Ground, for a night of tribal singing, dance, fire poi, warrior training, hakas, and more. Likewise, you can spend a day experiencing the Maori culture at Te Pa Tu, where you can observe traditional performances and enjoy a Maori fusion feast!

Trekking isn’t a thing in New Zealand. Instead, people here ‘go tramping’ across the gigantic fjord lands, over the snow-capped peaks, and along the craters and lakes that dot the landscape. With such lush environs and breathtaking scenery, tramping is one of the best things to do in New Zealand for those seeking outdoor adventure. 

There are so many walks in New Zealand that finding a route for tramping can be quite a challenge. For a day trip, there’s the iconic Tongariro Crossing, while those looking to head out for a longer period can enjoy the 4-day Milford Track. No matter where you decide to go tramping you are certain to have an unforgettable experience as you ramble through the verdant valleys and pristine mountains.

New Zealand is practically synonymous with Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, ever since the first movie was released in 2001. The Kiwis have fully embraced this association, and the national airline, Air New Zealand, even released a Hobbit-themed safety video every time a new movie was released.

The rolling hills of Matamatato are the best place to visit if you’re a big Lord of the Rings fan; the site of the idyllic Hobbiton movie set, the hills and pastures here boast 44 Hobbit holes. You can also take a tour of the Weta Workshop, where all the props, costumes and special effects used in the movies were created. It’s the perfect thing to do in New Zealand for backpackers looking to find a bit of magic on their journey.

One of the most famous white wines in the world comes from New Zealand: the Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. The great thing about backpacking in New Zealand is that some of the most beautiful parts of the countryside are home to the vineyards where these wines are produced. These include areas in Marlborough, where travellers can meet the local winegrowers and sample the finest New Zealand vintage. 

The best thing about New Zealand is that there isn’t a specific “whale watching” season – you can see the incredible creatures all year round. Kaikoura is tucked away between Christchurch and Picton on the South Island and is strongly considered the whale-watching capital of the country, if not the world. 

It’s one of the best places in New Zealand for any avid whale watchers and winter is the best time to see the humpbacks pass through. Come summertime, orcas begin to frequent the waters, offering even more chances for whale watching in New Zealand. If you’ve got your heart set on seeing whales in New Zealand, then hop on a specialised whale-watching cruise from Kaikoura where you can marvel at an array of wildlife including sperm whales, dolphins and fur seals.

There is so much to see in New Zealand so it’s a good idea to have a planned itinerary for your trip. You likely won’t be able to see everything that New Zealand has to offer, but with a detailed plan, you can still see the top attractions and have a one-of-a-kind experience. 

Below we have created itineraries for one week and one month in New Zealand. These can serve as a helpful guide for planning your New Zealand trip and can be customised to suit your preferences and interests. 

While there are a lot of hostels in New Zealand, they’re by no means cheap, and if you’re travelling during peak season then expect to pay at least $20 a night for a shared hostel dorm room. This can be off-putting when backpacking on a budget, but with some research and flexibility, you can find some great deals on accommodation in New Zealand. 

A good alternative is couch surfing, which is a good way to meet locals and new people. You could also rock up at one of the free campsites in New Zealand for a night or two. Even if it’s not free, you can normally pitch a tent for as low as $3 a night.

A lot of backpackers in New Zealand also utilise the option of working for accommodation – at least for a little bit of their time, anyway. If you know you’re planning on staying a while, then check with any local hostels, homestays, farms and more to see if they need some work done in exchange for a room and food. This is a great way to stay on budget while backpacking and also provides a unique experience for personal growth. 

Below we have highlighted some suggestions for places to stay in New Zealand. For each destination, we have included suggestions for hotels and hostels that fall into a range of budgets. 

One of the biggest parts of any backpacking trip is figuring out how to get around your chosen country without breaking the bank. Thankfully, transport in New Zealand is very reliable and in most cases, quite affordable. With buses and trains available to take you all over the islands, you have complete freedom with your backpacking route. 

The cost of travelling around New Zealand will largely depend on your route and itinerary, but here are some important tips to consider. 

Buses in New Zealand

The bus system around New Zealand is really good, and major cities such as Auckland and Wellington, have great networks where a one-way fare starts from roughly $2. There are often transit cards available as well; for instance, Wellington has a Snapper card which will save you nearly half your fare, while Auckland has the AT HOP card. 

You can even find some intercity bus operators like Intercity and Manabus. These services can get you between many cities in New Zealand and provide you with cost-effective transport that is comfortable for long-distance travel. 

The most common way of getting around for backpackers is hopping on a backpacker tour. These offer a hop-on/hop-off service which allows for flexibility to travel at your own pace, and you’ll also have activities and accommodation organised for you. However, if you want a bit more freedom with your plans, you may wish to plan your backpacking journey in New Zealand independently. 

Trains in New Zealand 

To travel cross country, New Zealand has three train lines: Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific, and TranzAlpine, which offer viewing platforms, audio commentary, information packets, and huge windows to admire the view. These routes are both a convenient and affordable way to travel and take in the captivating scenery of New Zealand. 

The Northern Explorer takes passengers from Auckland to Wellington, while the Coastal Pacific connects Picton to Christchurch. The TranzAlpine route is ideal for backpackers who want to travel between Christchurch and Greymouth and takes you through the idyllic Southern Alps. 

Road Trips in New Zealand 

While public transport in New Zealand is a great way to get around, sometimes it can be more freeing to rent your own vehicle and march to the beat of your own drum. This certainly isn’t the cheapest way to travel New Zealand, but gives you a greater level of flexibility with your Aotearoa itinerary. New Zealand is one of the best places for a road trip, as you get to see every side of this incredible destination and find those hidden gems that other travellers scarcely get to see. 

To rent a car in New Zealand you must have a valid driver’s licence in English or an International Driving Permit. You must also be over the age of 21 for most rental companies to provide you a vehicle and some may include extra charges for drivers below 25 years old. That said, there are a range of rental companies that you could hire a vehicle from, so don’t be afraid to do some research. 

We suggest booking in advance if you plan on renting a car in New Zealand, particularly if you plan to visit during the peak tourist season. This will help you save some of your budget for other activities on your New Zealand road trip. It is also advisable to familiarise yourself with local road rules, such as driving on the left-hand side and national speed limits.

New Zealand has something to offer every month of the year, making it one of the most timeless backpacking destinations in the world. The best time to visit will largely depend on your own preferences and desires, as certain months have better conditions than others. 

The long and short of it is if you’re looking to explore, be outside for long periods and enjoy some time on the beach, then the summer months are the time to go to New Zealand. With average temperatures of around 25˚C in February and fewer crowds, it’s the best time to see New Zealand at its finest.

The winter can also be a great time to visit, with colder temperatures carrying with them a strong wintry theme. There’s plenty of snow and alpine peaks for the skiers, and June sees Queenstown’s annual winter festival kick off in high spirits.

Below we highlight some of the best times to visit New Zealand. We detail the best time to visit New Zealand for good weather as well as the cheapest time to visit, which will be more suitable for a backpacking trip. If you’re keen to participate in local events and festivals, we also highlight some annual celebrations that might pique your interest. 

The Best Time to Visit New Zealand for Good Weather

Being in the southern hemisphere, summer in New Zealand occurs between December and February. This is when you can experience the most consistent and pleasant weather in New Zealand, with daily highs ranging from 20˚C to 25˚C. This is also one of the busiest times to visit New Zealand as locals will be making the most of the Christmas holiday season. 

With longer daylight hours and consistent temperatures, this is one of the best times to visit New Zealand for outdoor activities. You can lounge on the stunning beaches and explore the vibrant landscapes on hiking trips and bike rides. 

The Cheapest Time to Visit New Zealand

New Zealand has a reputation for being very expensive which can make it difficult for backpackers and budget travellers to visit. However, if you have your heart set on backpacking New Zealand, the cheapest time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of March to May and September to November. 

During these times in New Zealand, accommodation prices will be much cheaper than the peak season and the weather is still good for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. Visiting New Zealand from March to May allows you to see the country’s landscapes shifting into autumn, with vibrant colours and cooler temperatures. September to November is spring in New Zealand, bringing blooming flowers to the valley and snowmelt in the mountains, making it an ideal time for hiking and cycling. 

Festivals and Events in New Zealand  

There are plenty of festivals in New Zealand that backpackers and eager visitors can get involved in. Over the year there are countless celebrations from sporting events, local traditions and art festivals, so there is plenty on offer. 

One of the best events to attend in New Zealand while backpacking is Waitangi Day, the national day of New Zealand. The day marks the signing of the  Treaty of Waitangi in 1840 and is celebrated every year on February 6th. Throughout the country, there are plenty of festivities to enjoy like cultural performances, parades and traditional food markets where you can learn more about Maori heritage. 

If you’re a fan of sports then you may wish to visit New Zealand in January to see the iconic Sevens rugby tournament. Similarly, the Queenstown Winter Festival is one of the most hotly anticipated events in New Zealand. Taking place in June, the festival includes a range of winter sports events like skiing and snowboarding and there are even live music performances which add to the high spirits. 

If you’re more taken by music and art then the WOMAD festival in New Plymouth is a great event to check out while backpacking New Zealand. Occurring annually in March, the festival celebrates international and local artists, with a great lineup of entertainment. You can even get involved in workshops with creators and musicians to really immerse yourself in the festivities.

You can find more information about typical costs while backpacking across New Zealand below:

Now that you have a better idea of how much it costs to go backpacking in New Zealand, we thought we would share some helpful tips to keep your adventure affordable. While New Zealand may seem expensive, there are a few ways you can cut costs and enjoy a budget-friendly backpacking trip

Our first tip for backpacking in New Zealand is to learn how to cook a decent meal. New Zealand is not known for its amazing cuisine, and cooking your own meals the majority of the time will save you splashing out at least $10 per meal. Many hostels in New Zealand provide self-catering facilities, so you can save a fair amount of spending money by cooking for yourself. 

In keeping with this theme, another handy trick for budgeting in New Zealand is hitting up those happy hour deals. All the best backpacker bars in New Zealand have cheap happy hours offering drinks for as low as $3 – which is almost half price. This is a great way to enjoy nights out in New Zealand without worrying about staying on budget. 

Another great tip is to WWOOF it. WWOOFing essentially means working for your accommodation and food. There are plenty of farms in New Zealand that are part of this international scheme. In return for working on a farm, you are provided with a comfy bed and a meal. It’s a real win-win in our opinion. 

Our final suggestion for staying on budget in New Zealand is to take advantage of free and low-cost activities. It can be tempting to book a bounty of tours and experiences but you need to consider how much you can realistically do while backpacking in New Zealand. A good idea is to break up your itinerary with hiking, swimming at beaches, exploring parks and tramping nature reserves, which are generally free or have low entry fees.

Despite being right next to Australia, New Zealand’s weather is actually more akin to the UK’s than its Aussie counterpart – it even has a ski season. So, while there will be opportunities for sunbathing and strolling along the beaches, don’t assume that it will always be like that.

The weather in New Zealand can be quite unreliable so you’ll want to pack a variety of clothing options. The north island is typically warmer than the South Island, although, during the summer months, the weather is pleasant for both islands. You’ll want to make sure you’ve got a rain jacket, t-shirts and long-sleeved tops, hiking boots, a hat, and some nice clothes for the evening.

We’d also suggest packing insulated layers, hiking boots and moisture-wicking socks. If you plan on hiking the glaciers, you’ll also want to pack a beanie and some warm gloves for your New Zealand trip. It is a good idea to pack some sun protection as well like a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen, you can still get sunburned on a glacier. 

You’ll also want a swimming costume, towel, water bottle – the water here is safe to drink – toiletry kit, and a first aid kit. The healthcare system might be great, but you don’t want to have to rely on it for every scratch and bruise.

New Zealand isn’t particularly well known for its cuisine, but it does offer some interesting dishes. Typically the food here has been created from native Maori and European influences, although if you head to any of the larger cities – like Wellington or Auckland – you’ll also find a very heavy Asian influence.

One of the most quintessential New Zealand food items is Vegemite, essentially just Marmite. If you want to try a local speciality you should try to sample some lamb, New Zealand is known for its high-quality lamb which is a Kiwi favourite. There’s also New Zealand venison, and something called Giapo Hokey-Pokey ice cream, which is essentially vanilla ice cream with sponge toffee mixed in.

New Zealand has some exceptional seafood, so be sure to try some during your travels. Green-lipped mussels in white sauce can be found in a variety of Kiwi restaurants as they are abundant on the islands. Likewise, whitebait fritters are a popular snack during the whitebait season in New Zealand (September to October).  

In terms of drinks, you can’t complete a tour of New Zealand without a visit to one of the wineries, which have really come into their own in the last 30 to 40 years. The country is famous for its Sauvignon Blanc, which some have claimed to be the best in the world.

Another drink that is an absolute must-try in New Zealand is L&P. Lemon & Paeroa is a popular Kiwi soft drink made from lemon juice and carbonated water from the town of Paeroa. It has a very distinct flavour and is a refreshing beverage that you can enjoy on a warm summer day in New Zealand.

New Zealanders described themselves as friendly but reserved, and open but respectful – so it’s worth keeping this in mind while travelling through the country. There are also marked differences between Maori cultures and those descended from European settlers.

Here are a few things to bear in mind when backpacking through New Zealand:

• New Zealanders are very relaxed, low-key and free of pretension
• Typically greet people with a “gidday”
• Tipping isn’t expected but is appreciated
• The Hongi, a traditional Maori greeting, is used when meeting certain Maori – essentially press your noses and foreheads together and share in “the breath of life”
• Sharing food is very common, especially at a barbecue or hāngi
• Wealth and social status are not important

New Zealand is one of those insanely easy countries to visit. In fact, for the majority of nationalities, a visitor’s visa can be obtained on arrival. All you need is proof of onward travel exiting the country, and maybe proof as to how you’re going to support yourself while you’re there – which just means you need to show a credit card.

For UK citizens, the Visitor Visa costs nothing and allows travellers to stay for up to 6 months. If you’re looking to stay a bit longer, look into the Working Holiday Visa which is available for citizens under 31 years old, costs roughly £115, and allows you to stay for up to a year.

You will not require a visa to visit New Zealand if you are staying for less than 6 months. You will however need to apply for a  New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) and pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy as part of your application. This will cost $17 NZD (£8.18). 

Australian citizens are not required to apply for a visa for New Zealand as long as they are travelling on an Australian passport. US and UK citizens can find more information about visa requirements for New Zealand by following these links: 

UK Citizens – Foreign Travel Advice

US Citizens – Travel Advisories

Backpackers will be pleased to know that it’s one of the safest countries in the world! Even if you’re travelling solo, you’ll likely experience no issues in New Zealand. The crime rate here in general is very low, and the healthcare system is excellent – even for tourists.

New Zealand ranks 4th on the Global Peace Index 2023, which shows that it is one of the safest countries in the world for travelling. This makes it an attractive backpacking destination as you can rest assured that there are minimal safety concerns. 

The usual precautions you would take at home will be enough to keep you secure, just make sure you’ve always got a copy of your important documents on you. A good thing to remember is that the emergency number here is 111.

It’s worth remembering that there can be environmental hazards in New Zealand. The country is prone to volcanic activity which could result in earthquakes and extreme weather events. Unfortunately, these can be almost impossible to predict, so make sure that you familiarise yourself with safety procedures while out in the wilderness and keep tabs on local news outlets to keep yourself safe.

New Zealand is a relatively new country in terms of human habitation. In fact, the first inhabitants didn’t arrive until the year 1000 A.D. These were the Moa hunters, of Polynesian ancestry. They would remain the sole inhabitants of New Zealand until the colonial powers arrived later. 

The country was first discovered by Europe when Dutch navigator Abel Tasman arrived, and James Cook, a British explorer, arrived shortly after, exploring the New Zealand coastline in 1769. Then, in 1840, the country became a British colony, when the initial settlers began warring with the Maori tribe’s people.

Today, the ancestors of the Maori and the colonists live in virtual harmony, with both having full rights to vote in elections and participate in government since the late 1800s. The country became independent from the UK in 1947 through the Statute of Westminster Adoption Act.

• The world’s first commercial bungee jump was a 43 metre leap off the Kawarau Bridge in Queenstown in 1988
• In 1893, New Zealand became the first country to give women the right to vote
• New Zealand won the first ever Rugby World Cup in 1987
• It’s home to the only flightless parrot: the Kakapo
• There are no nuclear power stations in the country
• Nowhere in New Zealand is more than 120km from the coast
• Only 5% of the population is human – the rest are animals
• It has three official languages: English, Māori, and New Zealand Sign Language
• One third of the country is protected national park

If you really want to make the most of your time in New Zealand, then check out these useful resources. When you’re backpacking, it’s always better to be safe and prepared than winging it.

• Skyscanner – Cheap Flights to Christchurch
• Hostelworld – New Zealand Backpacking Guide
• Hidden Gems in New Zealand
• New Zealand Travel Insurance
• New Zealand Travel Advisory – UK
• Weather Forecast in New Zealand