Costs and money

New Zealand is not a budget destination, but planning ahead keeps costs down. Prices include 15% GST, and tipping is appreciated but not expected.

Ways to save

• Book early Car hire, ferries and Great Walk huts are cheaper and easier to get ahead of time.
• Free things Museums like Te Papa, beaches, most walks and national parks are free.
• Eat like a local Bakeries, fish and chips and farmers’ markets.
• Travel shoulder seasons March to May and September to November are cheaper and quieter.

Cards (including contactless) are accepted almost everywhere; carry a little cash for small-town honesty boxes and markets.