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Whether you are studying, working or traveling abroad in New Zealand, there is always something to do.
Are you interested in...
- Skiing Coronet Peak?
- Paragliding in Queenstown?
- Exploring Franz Josef Glacier?
- Tramping through the Waitakere Ranges?
Popular Destinations
North Island
- Auckland—city life, transportation hub
- Wellington—city life, museums, festivals
- Central Plateau—skiing, skydiving, hiking
- Bay of Plenty—beaches, sailing, hiking
- Northland—fishing, sailing, forests
- Rotorua—geothermal springs, fishing
South Island
- Christchurch—city life, transportation hub
- Queenstown—skiing, rafting, skydiving
- Dunedin—nightlife, boating, marine wildlife
- Invercargill—beach, nightlife
- West Coast—kayaking, glaciers, wildlife
- Marlborough Region—wineries, biking, kayaking
- Southern Alps—mountains, scenic drive
Currency
The New Zealand currency is the New Zealand dollar. The exchange rate from the US dollar to the New Zealand dollar varies and is typically around US $.70=NZ $1. ATMs are available and you can cash travelers checks at banks and at exchange locations for a fee.
Travel Discounts
The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is available in the Learning Abroad Center for $22. This card provides discounted or free admissions to museums and sights, inexpensive meals in various restaurants , and discounts on numerous modes of transportation (airfare, train tickets etc.). The ISIC card also provides minimal health insurance. Your University of Minnesota identification card will not work as an international student ID.
Transportation
Airplane
Travel by air through New Zealand can be cheap and is a good option. There are discounted flights available, but book before you arrive in New Zealand. Air passes are available, which allow a traveler to buy multiple travel coupons at discounted rates. Always ask about discounts before booking flights.
Bus
Traveling by bus is an easy way to get around New Zealand. Although time consuming, buses offer fair prices and discounted rates for students. Travel passes can be purchased for travel over 14 days and offers discounted fares. Buses are a very convenient and relatively cheap method of transportation throughout New Zealand, with the exception of travel between the North and South Islands.
Train
Trains are not the most common method of travel in New Zealand, so there are not many train services available for travel. Tranz Scenic offers scenic train rides on both islands. Discounted fares are available for students.
Taxi
Taxis are a good and quick way to get from one point to another, however, taxis are expensive compared the US.
Ferry
There is daily ferry service between North and South Islands. The ferry travels between Wellington and Picton. a student discount is available and the fare is relatively cheap.
Automobile
Renting or buying an automobile in New Zealand is very expensive. The price of gas and insurance are very expensive as well. Also, driving on the opposite side of the road can be quite confusing and can result in accidents. The Learning Abroad Center highly discourages students from renting a car while abroad.
Accommodation
Camping
Campsites are a fun way to experience the outdoors. Camping grounds are located outside the city center. Getting there can be expensive and renting a cabin can also be expensive.
Hostels
New Zealand has many hostels, located all over the country. Youth Hostel Association (YHA) and other independent hostels offer fair prices and are typically used by the budget traveler. Hostels are also a good way to meet new people and learn new cultures.
Bed & Breakfast (B&B)/Guesthouses
A B&B or guesthouse basically means that you get a room in someone's house and your stay usually includes breakfast the following morning. Be aware that prices of B&B vary depending on the owner of the home and the location.
Hotels
The term hotel in New Zealand can be quite different than in the US. Hotels in New Zealand typically mean that there are a few rooms for rent within a simple pub or huge country house. Within large cities, there are chain hotels; however, they are very expensive.
Seasons
The seasons in New Zealand are opposite of the US. When it is summer in the US it is winter in New Zealand. Winter is cold, especially the further south you travel, so pack a warm jacket, especially if you plan to ski or snowboard.
Travel Insurance
Many people make the mistake of assuming their existing health insurance covers them wherever they go, when many times it does not provide coverage outside of their home country.
The Learning Abroad Center includes comprehensive medical insurance for international travel that is available for those who study abroad, and offers insurance for those participating on non-academic programs such as work, intern, volunteer, or travel abroad.
Guide Books
Lonely Planet and The Rough Guide are available at the Learning Abroad Center. These guides provide valuable information to assist in planning a trip that will be both educational and enjoyable.
Guides to look for when traveling in and around New Zealand:
- New Zealand
- South Pacific
- Tramping in New Zealand
There are numerous accommodation guides in New Zealand, but bias is sometimes questionable because places pay to be listed.
Travel Web Sites
- Affordable airfare for students
- Student travel service
- New Zealand coach lines
- Bus fare and deals throughout New Zealand
- Airfare within Australia
- Cheap airfare to Australia
- New Zealand hostel search
- Hostel bookings and locations throughout New Zealand
- Events happening in Queenstown, New Zealand
- Information about popular cities and destinations
Travel Gear
Available at the Learning Abroad Center (prices reflect student/non-student pricing):
- Money belt-$10/12
- Adapter Set-$8/9
- ISIC-$22
- Sleep Sack-$14
- Lonely Planet New Zealand-$22.50
Last modified on June 8, 2009 |