New Zealand
Oceania • NZL
Last updated: October 1, 2026
New Zealand is a breathtaking island nation renowned for its dramatic landscapes ranging from snow-capped mountains to pristine beaches. It offers a perfect blend of high-octane adventure sports and serene natural beauty, making it a bucket-list destination for global travelers.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of visa-waiver countries must obtain an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before traveling to the country.
Typically Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity
- Approved NZeTA
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay
Popular Attractions
Milford Sound: Often called the eighth wonder of the world, this fiord offers stunning views of towering peaks and cascading waterfalls.
Hobbiton Movie Set: Located in Matamata, this immersive set allows fans to walk through the iconic Shire from The Lord of the Rings films.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park: Home to the tallest peak in the country, this park is a paradise for hikers, mountaineers, and stargazers.
Rotorua: Famous for its geothermal activity, visitors can explore bubbling mud pools, geysers, and traditional Maori cultural experiences.
Queenstown: Known as the adventure capital of the world, it offers everything from bungee jumping and jet boating to world-class skiing.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Tipping is not mandatory or expected in New Zealand, though it is appreciated for exceptional service in high-end restaurants.
Respecting Maori culture is essential; learn a few basic greetings like 'Kia ora' to show appreciation for the indigenous heritage.
Punctuality is highly valued in New Zealand, so aim to arrive on time for tours, appointments, and social gatherings.
Personal space is generally respected, and a friendly, informal demeanor is common among locals.
Remove your shoes before entering a private home, as this is a standard sign of respect in many households.
Environmentally conscious behavior is expected, such as disposing of trash properly and respecting protected wildlife and natural areas.
Safety Tips
Always check weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions in the mountains and coastal areas can change very rapidly.
Use high-SPF sunscreen, as New Zealand has very high UV levels due to its thin ozone layer.
Drive on the left side of the road and be prepared for narrow, winding roads that can be challenging for inexperienced drivers.
Stay on marked tracks while hiking and always tell someone your plans, especially when exploring remote areas.
Be aware of natural hazards, including earthquake safety procedures and tsunami warnings, by familiarizing yourself with local protocols.
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers adventure sports if you plan on participating in activities like skydiving or rafting.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, according to CDC's measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
View sourceMeasles
Source: Canada_Travel
Travellers arriving in the Solomon Islands from New Zealand are required to provide certified proof of measles vaccination 3 weeks prior to their arrival date. Failure to produce certified proof of vaccination will result in deportation. These requirements are not applicable to infants less than 6 months of age, pregnant women, and persons carrying documentary evidence of contraindications for vaccine administration, such as immune-deficiency or allergies (certificate from doctor).
View sourceYellow fever
Source: WHO
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers aged 1 year or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip.
Includes measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio, and your yearly flu shot.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before traveling.
View sourceInfluenza
Source: CDC
Annual vaccination recommended, especially for older adults and high-risk populations.
View sourceTdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who have not received boosters.
View sourceMMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination important for all travelers.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To reduce the risk of insect-borne diseases.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, flu)
Source: CDC
Ensure that routine vaccines are up to date before traveling.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Fully vaccinated travelers are less likely to transmit the virus and face fewer restrictions.
View sourceRoutine vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip.
Some of these vaccines include Chickenpox (Varicella), Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP, Tdap, or Td), Flu (influenza), Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), Polio, and Shingles.
View sourceMeasles vaccination
Source: Canada_Travel
Before travelling to New Zealand, ensure that your measles vaccination is up-to-date to protect yourself and others from measles.
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Travellers can be exposed to measles in many different settings, including transit hubs such as airports and train stations, on airplanes and trains, at popular attractions, during large or crowded events, and even during visits with friends and family in areas that are experiencing outbreaks. Anyone who isn’t immune to measles is at risk of being infected, including when travelling. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and others from measles. In Canada, the measles vaccine is part of the routine immunization schedule.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Insect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Use insect repellent and wear protective clothing to avoid bites.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Practice safe food and water habits to prevent diarrheal diseases.
New Zealand generally has high standards for food and water safety.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially if staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those who may be exposed through food or water.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Used to prevent bites from local insects (e.g., sandflies), which can cause discomfort.
Use repellent and wear protective clothing when in areas where insects are present.
View sourceFood and water safety
Source: CDC
General precautions apply, though New Zealand has high standards for sanitation and water quality.
Drink tap water, which is generally safe, and follow basic food hygiene practices.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Considered for travelers who might have sexual contact with new partners, get a tattoo or piercing, or undergo medical procedures.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To prevent diseases transmitted by insects in certain environments.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who might eat or drink outside of major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to mitigate the risk of COVID-19.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those who may be exposed through food or water.
View sourceHepatitis B vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to New Zealand.
Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to New Zealand.
View sourceHepatitis A vaccination
Source: CDC
Consider hepatitis A vaccination for most travelers.
It is recommended for travelers who will be doing higher risk activities, such as visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where a traveler might get infected through food or water. It is recommended for travelers who plan on eating street food.
View sourceTravelers' diarrhea precautions
Source: CDC
Recommended to prevent potential illnesses from food and water.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended due to ongoing COVID-19 considerations.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Hepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider if you might have sexual contact with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or undergo medical procedures.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers involved in outdoor activities like caving or those who may have close contact with animals.
View sourceSeek advice for any unusual local health concerns or vaccinations
Source: CDC
Consult healthcare providers based on specific itinerary or planned activities.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink in areas with unsafe food and water.
View sourceRabies pre-exposure vaccination
Source: CDC
Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.
Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.
View source