Travelling to New Zealand

Though its reputation has been hijacked recently by Lord of the Rings worshippers, New Zealand remains a fantastic gap year destination. Whether you want to sail or shop, camp or canoe, meditate or mountain bike, New Zealand offers a host of activities to suit any preference. And you won't even have to speak Elvish to enjoy them!

The Geography of New Zealand

New Zealand is a nation made up of two main islands - the South Island and the North Island - that lie in the South Pacific Ocean to the southeast of Australia. The capital city of New Zealand is Wellington, and the country is divided into 16 administrative regions and one territory, including:

• Auckland
• Bay of Plenty
• Canterbury
• Gisborne
• Hawke's Bay
• Manawatu-Wanganui
• Marlborough
• Nelson
• Northland
• Otago
• Southland
• Taranaki
• Tasman
• Waikato
• Wellington
• West Coast
• Chatham Island (territory)

Prepare for an Adventure

The climate of New Zealand is mainly temperate, though moving between regions will reveal distinct differences. To be on the safe side, pack for any and all weather conditions. Include:

• Sturdy walking shoes, boots, and/or sandals.
• Raincoat or all-weather coat.
• Hat, gloves and scarf.
• Layers of clothing.
• Swimsuits.
• Comfortable backpack.

When you've got your bags packed, don't make for the door too quickly. Remember to:

• Arrange for the travel vaccinations recommended by your GP or local clinic, often including:
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Rabies
• Typhoid
• Tetanus and measles boosters
• Register for travel insurance.
• Obtain travel and medical insurance claims forms.
• Fill needed prescriptions.
• Apply for visas.
• Check with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office for travel advisories.
• Keep abreast of local news in the areas you plan to visit.

As a youth traveller, you may be able to save a little money on travel expense simply due to your age. To see if you qualify for special savings, investigate:

• International Student Identity Card (ISIC) - must be a student.
• International Youth Travel Card (IYTC) - must be under 26 years of age.
• Youth Hostel Association - cheapest if you are under 26 years of age.

Create an Unforgettable Itinerary

Drafting an itinerary is a great way to organise your thoughts and create an efficient travel schedule. Itineraries are also useful to leave with family and friends, and to register with embassies and high commissions in case of emergencies. Any itinerary for New Zealand should include:

• Tamaki Maori Village in Rotorua on the North Island.
• Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland in Rotorua on the North Island.
• Taupo Tandem Skydiving in Taupo on the North Island.
• Buried Village in Rotorua on the North Island.
• Whale Watching from Kaikoura on the South Island.
• Kayaking at Kaiteriteri Beach on the South Island.
• Heli-skiing at Harris Mountains on the South Island

Another way to spend your gap year in New Zealand is to work, study or volunteer as part of a structured programme.

Personal Safety in New Zealand

New Zealand is not a particularly dangerous country for gap year travellers, but it never hurts to use common sense. Keep your valuables locked at your hotel or hostel and keep your wallet/purse on your person at all times. Never watch bags or carry items for strangers and alert authorities to suspicious behaviour. Avoid deserted areas, and always follow the advice of experienced travellers and guides when entering new environments or attempting new activities.

Good luck!


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