Things to bring & get upon arrival

Check entry regulations. Most countries require an NZeTA to enter New Zealand, ensure you apply for it a few days / weeks advance of your travel dates. You can apply online through the official New Zealand government website or their mobile app. Make sure to have your passport details and payment information ready when you apply. Applying early helps avoid any last-minute complications or delays with your travel authorization.

Pack clothing suitable for all types of weather conditions, as the weather in New Zealand can change rapidly, especially in the mountains.

Investing in good quality hiking boots and hiking poles is recommended, as many hikes involve significant elevation gains.

Bring a good insect repellent to protect yourself from sandflies, which are prevalent along the west coast of the South Island and are known for their VERY ITCHY bites.

Purchasing a local SIM card is a straightforward process at the airport, with kiosks readily available upon arrival (even in the late evening!). It took us approximately 5-10 minutes to set up a ONE NZ TRAVEL SIM card with 100 GB of data for under 100 NZD, which lasted for about two months. While mobile network coverage is generally good, it can be limited in some remote areas. Do not rely heavily on campground WiFi, as it is often limited, slow, and sometimes not free. While eSIMs are an option, they may have less coverage and be more expensive.

It is advisable to bring some cash (NZ Dollars) with you for coin-operated laundry facilities, public buses, and occasional entry donation fees. We found that withdrawing 200 New Zealand Dollars from an ATM upon arrival at the airport was sufficient for our entire two-month trip.

If you're traveling to both the North and South Island, make sure to book your ferry in advance. There are two main ferry operators, Inter Islander and Bluebridge, that run ferries between the North and South Islands. It is essential to purchase tickets at least a month in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly. Be aware that bringing your campervan across on the ferry can be quite expensive. Book your ferry tickets via the websites of Bluebridge or InterIslander.