Quick facts
Budget breakdown
| Category | Budget | Midrange |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $25–50 | $60–120 |
| Food | $15–25 | $30–55 |
| Transport | $0–10 | $10–25 |
| Activities | $0–15 | $20–50 |
| Coffee & Beer | $5–10 | $10–20 |
| Daily Total | $45–110 | $130–270 |
Daily per-person estimates. Costs vary by season and travel style.
Practical info
Entry & Visas
- Most nationalities need an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) — apply online before travel
- An International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of $35 NZD applies
- Keep a digital and physical copy of your passport and travel insurance
Health & Safety
- New Zealand has excellent public healthcare but travel insurance is essential for visitors
- Wellington is very safe — normal city awareness applies at night around Courtenay Place
- The sun is extremely strong due to thin ozone layer — wear SPF 50+ even on cloudy days
Getting Around
- The CBD is compact and easily walkable — most attractions are within 20 minutes on foot
- Metlink buses serve the wider Wellington region — Snapper card for discounted fares
- The Interislander or Bluebridge ferry to the South Island departs from Wellington — book in advance
Connectivity
- Buy a local SIM from Spark, Vodafone, or 2degrees at the airport — affordable data plans available
- Free WiFi available at most cafes, the library, and Te Papa
- Download offline maps — mobile coverage drops quickly outside the city in hill areas
Money
- Currency: NZD. Contactless payment accepted almost everywhere — New Zealand is nearly cashless
- ATMs widely available. Visa and Mastercard universally accepted
- Tipping is not expected in New Zealand but appreciated for exceptional service — round up or leave 5-10%
Packing Tips
- Wellington is the windiest city in the world — a quality windbreaker is essential year-round
- Layers are key — temperatures can swing 10°C in a day and rain can arrive without warning
- Comfortable walking shoes for hills and bush trails. The city is built on steep terrain
Cultural tips
Te Reo Māori
Learn a few Māori greetings — kia ora (hello), ka pai (good/well done), and whānau (family) are used daily in New Zealand English. Place names are almost all Māori — learning pronunciation shows respect.
Kaitiakitanga (Guardianship)
New Zealanders take environmental stewardship seriously. Leave no trace in natural areas, stay on tracks, and never disturb wildlife. The predator-free movement is a national mission — report any rat or stoat sightings to DOC.
Photography Etiquette
Ask before photographing Māori cultural performances or carvings in meeting houses. Most outdoor locations are freely photographable. Drone regulations are strict near the airport and city centre — check CAA rules.
Kiwi Culture
New Zealanders are friendly, understated, and egalitarian. Tall poppy syndrome means boasting is frowned upon. Kiwis appreciate genuine interest in their country and are generous with travel advice and hospitality.
Support Local
Wellington's strength is its independent businesses — choose locally owned cafes, restaurants, and shops over chains. The Cuba Street area is almost entirely independent and reflects the city's creative character.
Pace & Weather
Wellington's weather changes rapidly — locals say you can experience four seasons in one day. Pack for all conditions and embrace the wind as part of the Wellington character. The city rewards those who stay flexible.
