North Island: Travel Tips

The North Island has it all, from rafting to restaurants, from sailing to shopping, from beaches to biking to bungee jumping. Visit geothermal wonders such as the brilliantly colored Champagne Pool at Waiotapu, or the Whaka Thermal Reserve, where twin geysers erupt to heights of 20 to 30 yards

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Getting To North Island

With year round temperate whether, New Zealand can be hot during the summer (December to February). With the rainfall at its heaviest in January and February. Ski season runs from June to October on New Zealand’s South Island.

Flight Times to Auckland

  • 12 hours from Los Angeles
  • 14 hours from New York

Staying In North Island

Many travelers begin their North Island vacation in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city. Built around volcanoes, this cosmopolitan city offers fine dining, lively nightlife, and numerous parks. At the northern tip of the island, Ninety Mile Beach beckons beachgoers with a seemingly endless stretch of sandy beach. And for wine enthusiasts, a visit to award-winning wineries in Hawke's Bay is a must.

Must-see sights

  • The brilliantly colored Champagne Pool at Waiotapu
  • The Whaka Thermal Reserve
  • Hawke's Bay wine country

Things to do

  • Fishing, sailing, guided walks, and bungee jumping.
  • Delight in a jaunt by jet boat
  • Take a stroll or sun yourself on Ninety Mile Beach.
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Traveling In North Island

Classic Vacations can arrange convenient transportation options to make your New Zealand vacation more enjoyable. Transfers to hotels from the airport are available. Island resorts are accessible by boat, helicopter, and seaplane, and in many locations, getting there – whether by four-wheel-drive vehicle, train, or guided tour – is part of the excitement.

Things to Know

Entry Requirements

  • Every visitor must have a current passport for entry, valid for six months beyond the date of return.
  • A return airline ticket to the country of residence or to another destination.
  • It is the traveler’s responsibility to obtain the proper documents.

Currency

The official currency is the New Zealand dollar.

  • Although credit cards and ATMs are readily available it is a good idea to exchange some money for smaller purchases.
  • Visitors can exchange money at the airport upon arrival.
  • Exchange rates vary by economic seasonality.
  • Commonly accepted credit cards are American Express, Bankcard, Carte Blanche, Diners Club, MasterCard, and Visa.

Time Difference

  • New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere and is located across the international date line.
  • New Zealand is 17 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time.

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