New Zealand
Oceania • NZL
Last updated: October 1, 2026
New Zealand is a breathtaking destination renowned for its dramatic landscapes, ranging from snow-capped mountains and glaciers to pristine beaches and lush forests. It offers an unparalleled mix of adventure sports, unique Māori culture, and world-class hospitality, making it perfect for both thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
Visa Requirements
Most visitors from visa-waiver countries must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before arriving.
Typically Required Documents
- A passport valid for at least three months beyond your intended date of departure
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
- Proof of onward or return travel tickets
- Approved NZeTA or relevant visa
Popular Attractions
Milford Sound is a stunning fjord in Fiordland National Park known for its towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and diverse marine life.
Queenstown is widely regarded as the adventure capital of the world, offering activities like bungee jumping, jet boating, and skiing.
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is widely considered one of the best day hikes in the world, taking you past volcanic craters and turquoise lakes.
Hobbiton Movie Set offers an immersive tour of the picturesque Shire as seen in the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves feature magnificent limestone formations and a magical underground experience lit by thousands of bioluminescent glowworms.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Kiwis are generally very friendly and informal; it is common to be addressed by your first name immediately.
Tipping is not expected or required in New Zealand, though it is appreciated for exceptional service in high-end restaurants.
Always remove your shoes when entering someone's private home as a sign of respect.
When visiting a Marae, which is a sacred communal gathering place for the Māori people, follow the protocols guided by your host.
Punctuality is highly valued, so try to arrive on time for tours, meetings, and social appointments.
Safety Tips
New Zealand weather can change rapidly; always carry layered clothing and be prepared for four seasons in one day.
Apply high-factor sunscreen generously, as the ozone layer here is thin and the sun can cause severe burns very quickly.
If driving, remember that New Zealanders drive on the left side of the road and many rural roads are winding and narrow.
Respect the power of nature and follow all warning signs near beaches, mountains, and geothermal areas.
Use official water safety advice when swimming or participating in water sports, as currents can be unpredictable.
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