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| Mitre Peak Milford Sound, New-Zealand |
What to Bring
Let's start with the basics - before you even hop on that plane to New Zealand, pack carefully to ensure you have everything necessary, but make sure it fits in a single bag.
What you absolutely must bring with you:
- Passport - necessary to board the plane (visas are only essential if you plan to work during your trip).
- Travel insurance - always a good idea.
- Credit card/cash - there are lots of ATMs throughout the country to get cash as needed.
- Sturdy, soft-sided bag - it travels well in the plane, in a car or on the plane.
- Clothing for all types of weather - you will need warm clothing as well as beach wear and everything in between - even party clothes - since there is a big variety of climates.
- Walking shoes - more than one pair of sturdy shoes is ideal (in case the first pair gets wet).
- Camera/camcorder - don't miss any opportunity to take lots of gorgeous shots!
Getting Around
First things first, you must arrive at the Auckland Airport, the biggest city on New Zealand's North Island. Since you will need to drive around the country (you won't get too far if you solely plan on tramping), make a reservation to pick up a rental car at the airport for convenience. There are many Auckland Airport car rental companies so take the time to find one that allows for convenient pickup/drop off based on your trip itinerary.
If you would prefer staying in your own digs rather than finding rooms at a hostel along your journey, consider hiring a campervan. This is an excellent way to get around where you want to go, when you want to go there - and it's really an inexpensive alternative to renting a room and dining at restaurants.
Plus, this is a great way to truly experience the great outdoors; you can simply park on the beach and wake up to the sound of the surf and the sight of the sun cresting the horizon. Campervans also provide a place to stow a bike (it's easy to find a rental company just about anywhere) so you can take a break from backpacking on foot. You will find many Auckland Airport car rental companies that offer campervans for your backpacking trip.
Start in the North then Head South
Chances are you will be flying into the Auckland Airport so why not start your adventure on the North Island? There are plenty of places to check out there before you take the Interislander Ferry system to the South Island without backtracking - and you should be able to drop off your rental car there without having to return north (if not, find a different Auckland Airport car rental company!).
More Tips
Do you have an international calling plan on your cell phone? If not, consider buying a sim card in New Zealand. Just pop it into your mobile phone and you can make calls, send and receive texts and even use smartphone capabilities for one low price. And speaking of the internet, be aware that Wi-Fi access throughout New Zealand is iffy at best, and expensive. Look for one of the few internet cafés to get connected.
So much to do, so little time. If that's a problem, focus on some of the more iconic backpacking trails, such as a Great Walk through one of the national parks. There are a total of nine Great Walks throughout the country to plan your trip around. This is especially good for first-time visitors to get a better feel for where the best scenery is located.
Ready to plan your backpacking trip to New Zealand? Get your airline tickets, make your rental car reservations and then go for it! You won't see scenery like this anywhere else in the world.
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