FAQs

As a 100% New Zealand owned company, we know New Zealand like our own back yard. We include quality products and services and our popular touring routes can be customised to suit individual needs. Catering to all budgets and styles, Kiwiway Vacations provides dedicated local support making for stress free travelling while you're here.

Kiwiway Vacations is operated by General Travel New Zealand Ltd.

You may not be allowed to board your flight or cruise to New Zealand if you do not have a valid passport, the right Visa or an NZeTA.

Visit the New Zealand Immigration website to see if you need a Visa.
If you are from a VISA WAIVER COUNTRY, you must hold an NZeTA before you travel.
https://www.immigration.govt.nz/

A New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) also needs to be completed for each traveller.
Complete a digital declaration within 24 hours of your flight to New Zealand to save completing a paper application onboard. Completing the NZTD is free - https://www.travellerdeclaration.govt.nz/
Your declarations is linked to your passport and is checked when you arrive at the eGate or by a border office

Driving around New Zealand is generally straightforward if you are comfortable driving on the left side of the road. Roads are well maintained with clear signage but rural roads can be narrow and winding. Journeys often take longer than expected, especially when there is so much beautifully scenery to photograph. Use driving times as a starter guideline only and allow plenty of extra time in your day for stops along the way.

Yes, you should always be insured when you travel and we strongly recommended you chose an insurance company that provides cover for covid related costs.

New Zealand enjoys a temperate climate, not too hot and not too cold.

Autumn (Mar-May) is relaxed, warm and colourful.
Winter (Jun-Aug) is intimate and cozy with the south delivering majestic snowy scenery.
Spring (Sep-Nov) brings fresh green days, frolicking lambs, flowing waterfalls and icing sugar snow tops.
Summer (Dec-Feb) delivers long warm days perfect for outdoor activities.

The North Island is known for its gorgeous coastlines, volcanic geology and geothermal hotspots.
The South Island is more expansive and is best known for its dramatic scenery boasting sky high mountains and deep fjords. If time allows, we recommend a visit to both islands.

New Zealand is one of the friendliest countries is the world. The locals, referred to as "Kiwis" are known for their warm hospitality, laid back attitude and "Manaakitanga" (hospitality/respect).

This question all depends on what your interests are...

Queenstown has lots of adventure activities so this is a really popular place to visit.
Rotorua is a unique destination delivering amazing geothermal sights.
Glaciers all around the world are retreating, its a good time to visit those now!

Special places and hidden gems can be found all around the country. We can help find the ones that suit you best.

New Zealand is an exceptional destination for family holidays. The country is blessed with endless walking and cycling tracks, stretches of sandy beaches and lush native forests without any dangerous animals to worry about.
Thrillseeks won't miss out either, with pleny of exciting activites that are suitable for kids.

* Visit Rotorua for its fascinating geothermal steam vents, geysers and bubbling mudpools
* Meet the local wildlife - penguins, seal lions, dolphins, whales and birds
* Hand feed farm animals
* Make a snow angel or a snowman (seasonal)

New Zealand is exceptional for couples, offering copious amounts of natural beauty, stunning alpine landscapes, secluded luxury stays and warm, welcoming locals.

We like:
* Starry night skies
* Warm body soaks
* Dreamy white snow (seasonal)
* Tandem rides and ziplines
* Private helicopter and picnic

Yes you should book ahead, so you don't miss out and be disappointed. Particularly in the busy summer season (Oct-Mar) and the winter ski season (Jul-Sep) towns such as Queenstown and Wanaka.

If you don't want the expense of roaming it is best to purchase a local SIM card from one of New Zealand’s main providers; Spark, One, 2 Degrees or Skinny. They can be purchased from international airports or from stores across New Zealand. Free WiFi isn't everywhere and you may lose connection in rural spots.

New Zealand is a fairly informal country and very few places insist on strict dress codes. If you’re spending time in the cities, bring something smart for evenings out along with practical and comfortable clothes. Wearing layers is essential in New Zealand with the unpredictable and changeable weather, even in summer.

We suggest packing a rain proof jacket and comfortable, closed toe walking shoes as part of your essential items. Sunscreen and insect repellent are also recommended.

As a multi-cultural nation, New Zealand has a diverse range of foods available to all tastes.

New Zealand has a small population of Muslims but also welcomes many Muslim visitors who require Halal meals. This means there are plenty of Halal certified or specialist restaurants in New Zealand.

You can find snow in New Zealand primarily on high mountain ranges and ski fields across the South Island and the central North Island, with the main regions being Queenstown/Wanaka, Canterbury (South Island) and Mount Ruapehu (North Island).

The ski season varies for each mountain but it is generally between mid June to late September or early October.

Yes, you can enjoy a real farm experience with dinner and breakfast shared around the family table with your farm stay hosts.

No, New Zealand has no poisonous or dangerous animals to be worried about.