A vacation to New Zealand can be a once in a lifetime opportunity. There is so much to know before making the trip. Preparing in advance is the best way to travel successfully and get the maximum benefits out of it.
Regardless of the time of year a visit is being planned for, it is important to pack clothes suitable for all four seasons. North Island temperatures are often different from South Ireland temperatures are. Though it can be hot on sunny days, it can get very cold when one steps into the shade. Visitors are advised to dress in layers so they are never too cold or too warm. Any trip that includes a visit to Fiordland National Park or the glaciers in South Island call for rain gear. It is also important to pack sturdy shoes because hiking and walking are popular activities in New Zealand, along with many others that take place outside.
It is also important to understand that no one can enter the country without proper documentation. Those coming from America are not permitted to enter New Zealand unless they have an Electronic Travel Authority document on them. Visitors must go to the country's official government website to apply for their Electronic Travel Authority. The application process involves providing a current passport that has been valid for no less than three months. Those with a criminal conviction on their record may not be allowed into the country.
Upon arrival in New Zealand, one of the most important things to do is respect the Maori culture. It is New Zealand's official language after English. Visitors are expected to remain polite during the standard welcoming ceremony. The traditional greeting at this ceremony involves touching each visitor's forehead and nose. When this has been done, a visitor is now part of the Maori tribe. Afterwards, anyone that goes to any meeting space must wait to be invited into it. When visitors are invited in they must not have any food or drinks in their possession and must remove their shoes.
Most visitors to New Zealand explore its wilderness. Close to 1/3 of the country is considered a national park. It is known for its Routeburn and Milford tracks, which are popular among hikers.
