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Top 5 places to visit when backpacking in New Zealand

New Zealand has got to be one of those unforgettable destinations every traveler must experience with the most beautiful and diverse landscapes that one nation has to offer. Endless rolling hills, world class alpine regions, natural hot springs and wonderful culture are just the tip of the iceberg. Here are some of the best places to visit during your travels to NZ.

  1. Bay of Islands

A 3 hour drive from Auckland will present you with the beautiful Bay of Islands known for its rich history and stunning landscape. It is a must of lovers of sandy beaches and water activities.  The region entails 144 islands between Cape Brett and the Purerua Peninsula where you will find heritage towns such as Paihia, Kerikeri, Opua, and Russell. The Bay of Islands attracts many visitors each year, whether you are looking to enjoy wonderful river and seaside walking tracks, explore on a kayak or take a daily cruise, there is plenty to see and do on your backpacking holiday.

2. Abel Tasman National Park

Known for its golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs and beautiful Coast Track, the national park is the smallest in New Zealand at 22,530 hectares. Located at the top of the South Island in the Nelson region of New Zealand, Abel Tasman National Park is easily reached from Takaka, Kaiteriteri and Motueka. It will take you 1.5 hours drive from Nelson to reach the beginning of the Abel Tasman Coastal Track and there are plenty of campground areas to help you trek the entire length. You will find some of the most amazing beaches NZ has to offer along the Tasman. The park is home to many native plants and animal species and the three largest islands in the park, Adele, Fisherman and Tonga can be accessed by boat or kayak however camping is strictly not permitted.

3. Queenstown

For those who are after high octane and some adrenaline rush, Queenstown is situated in New Zealand’s Otago region and is world renowned for its adventure. What makes Queenstown great is most of the activities can be accessed all year round including bungy jumping, skydiving, jet boating, white water rafting and a tonne of indoor activities.  If you’re looking to get your heart racing and blood pumping against a spectacular backdrop, Queenstown is the one for you. In contrast, if you prefer a more relaxed vibe, you can enjoy a round of golf, visit some of the best wineries, go hiking or biking or just relax in spa and wellness treatments. Queenstown also transforms into a wonderful resort during winter and enables skiers from around the world to ski during the northern hemisphere’s summer. There something for everyone in Queenstown and is a must visit when traveling in New Zealand.

4. Coromandel Peninsula

Just a short 2.5-hour drive from Auckland you will find the famous Coromandel Peninsula renowned for its natural beauty, luscious valleys, tropical rainforests and beautiful beaches.  It provides a great escape from the daily grind and there are hundreds of hidden treasures to explore in the area. Visit Karangahake Gorge to discover walkways and old tunnels with rich history, take a natural spa at Hot Water Beach to find hot water bubbling through the golden sand. Visit Whenuakura Wildlife Sanctuary or take a highly rated hike to The Pinnacles and be rewarded with spectacular sunset.

5. Rotorua

In the Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand’s North Island you will find the city of Rotorua, the name taken from the beautiful Lake Rotorua. This destination is a major attraction for both domestic and international tourists and is known for its geothermal activity and features geysers and hot mud pools.  In addition, you will find clear streams, astonishing forests to explore and an abundance of Maori culture. If you prefer to relax, why not try a natural hot spring to unwind or indulge in a wellness getaway at one of many luxurious spas.  Rotorua is also a haven for mountain bikers and adventurers alike, there is action water sports, treewalk adventures and skydiving all guaranteed to get your heart racing. Rotorua is definitely one to put on your list to experience what New Zealand culture has to offer.

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What Australians need to know about moving to New Zealand

Australia was once the dream destination for most New Zealanders due to employment, public healthcare, educational opportunities, weather and lifestyle. But for the past few years, the table has turned completely.

Several Australians have started moving to New Zealand. If you are also planning to move to New Zealand, you must have some basic knowledge about New Zealand. Let’s explore some of the facts you must know before booking house movers and moving to New Zealand.

Superannuation

If you decide to work in New Zealand, Australians are eligible for KiwiSaver, a popular employer-sponsored and government-subsidized retirement savings program. Some companies also enable you to transfer funds from your Australian retirement system.

Healthcare

If you are staying in New Zealand for the long term, Australian citizens and permanent residents have access to the entire spectrum of publicly supported health care. To be qualified, you must have lived there for at least two years (or intend to do so).

Australians who do not plan to remain for two years may also get medical assistance. To establish your eligibility, make sure you have your passport and Medicare card on hand.

Travel Insurance

If you’re relocating from Australia to New Zealand, you should absolutely get one-way travel insurance (ex-pat cover), which will cover you and your family in the case of a variety of crises, such as:

  • All medical expenditures incurred as a result of an accident or sickness
  • Theft of high-value items
  • Loss of luggage
  • Planned flight disruptions
  • Flights that have been canceled
  • Additional lodging and travel costs as a consequence of sickness or injury
  • Legal as well as personal responsibility

While ex-pat insurance is costly, it is well worth it since the alternative might result in significant out-of-pocket payments. Therefore, think wisely to decide the travel insurance facility.

Study Opportunities

In New Zealand, Australian nationals and permanent residents are recognized as domestic students. Therefore, you don’t need to apply for a visa and may pay for your study using local funds (including tertiary). However, before applying for a student loan or Student Allowance, you must have lived in New Zealand for at least three years.

Accommodation for living

Australians residing in New Zealand do not suffer any limitations while renting or buying property; they are subject to the same rules as locals. In addition, while the New Zealand government has prohibited foreigners from purchasing real estate, Australians are exempt.

The average weekly rent in New Zealand is $390 (NZ) for a small home and $525 (NZ) for a property with two to four bedrooms. Consider sharing a house with locals if you’re searching for a cheaper solution. Sharing a flat with some other people is quite common among non-family guests.

Quarantine and Customs Regulations

It would help if you got acquainted with the customs rules of every nation you want to visit. For example, New Zealand, like Australia, has rigorous bio-security rules in place to protect its species from hazardous pests and illnesses. You’ll be handed a Passenger Arrival Card on your flight to declare any forbidden items.