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New Zealand

Visit New Zealand

New Zealand was a dream for us … it came true! The most striking are certainly the 6 million inhabitants who populate the two islands: a deep and sincere kindness, with a natural empathy and a calm at any test, the Kiwis are fascinating. As for the country, every kilometer you will travel is a show (because yes, in New Zealand, we travel by car or van :)). You will find there a fauna and flora that you will not find anywhere else.

Hiking lovers, this country is yours. This is the only country where we could do a dozen hikes without crossing more than 2 or 3 people each time.

We spent two and a half months in New Zealand and traveled both islands up and down with our loyal “Lucky” van.

Things to do and see in New Zealand

Driving more and more
Swimming with seals
Admire the stars
Hiking and hiking
Rent or buy a van
Visit Christchurch
Jump in skydiving
The End of the World Road to Milford Sound
Enjoy Canterbury
Taste New Zealand pinot and homemade beer
Admire Lake Tekapo
Discover the Maori culture
See a real Kiwi
Attend a Rugby game
Stop at Okarito

Average travel costs in New Zealand

Accommodation

If you never sleep in your van (which we strongly regret :)), you can always find an Airbnb not too far. This is definitely the best way to stay. Otherwise, think of HelpX and Woofing that offer a great alternative to free accommodation for a few hours of work.

  • HelpX / Woofing: Free
  • Basic Airbnb Room: $ 22.30
  • Youth Hostel in the city center: $ 44,60

Food

The standard of living is generally higher than in France, and one finds there the same things as with us: Restaurants, fast-food, Supermarkets … In order not to ruin you, we advise you nevertheless to cook a maximum. The vegetables are varied and tasty. The culture of the food-truck is also very present and offers an affordable alternative.

  • Food truck: $ 14,50
  • Restaurant: $ 22.00 – $ 28.00
  • Beer: $ 7.00 the pint

Transport

Apart from renting or buying a van, other means of transport are more expensive than in France. A good solution is to borrow a bike from the Airbnb or the local friend. The cities have excellent bus and tram networks. Also think about Lime Electric Scooters ???? .

  • Purchase of a van: $ 1,500.00 – $ 6,500.00
  • Rent a van: $ 3300 to more per month

Suggested daily budget 67 and 78 USD / person (Note: This budget is calculated on our experience. We travel to the economy, while keeping a minimum of comfort (single room). 2.5 months in digital nomadic mode.

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New Zealand map tourist points

Tips for travelling to New Zealand

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Buy a van in NZ Buying a van in NZ is very common and is often cheaper than renting. There are many sites to help you find the rare pearl and the kiwis will help you with great pleasure. Beware of scams and try to be accompanied by a connoisseur because cars are often old (90's), but also let yourself be guided to the crush (ex: https://www.trademe.co.nz | https://www.facebook.com/groups/342680892553127/ | https://www.facebook.com/groups/1462779807288708/)
2
Wilderness camping (freecamp) Camping in New Zealand is part of the trip. However, there are many rules that you are really advised to follow to the letter (Wilderness camping, schedule, freecamp, no-zone, protected reserve, display of your vignette etc...). First of all because it keeps the country so beautiful and wild, and secondly because the fine is 200 € to be paid immediately! (ex for Christchurch: https://www.ccc.govt.nz/rec-and-sport/camping)
3
The best app from NZ CamperMate is the app you absolutely must have to travel to New Zealand. In addition to the camping areas, it shows you wifi points, drinking water, points of interest, freecamps, etc. All you need to travel is in CamperMate, and it's 100% free and offline!
4
Or shopping? The cheapest store to shop is undoubtedly Pack'n'Save. Yellow sign present in all the big cities, you can find everything you need to eat, drink, and all the basic drugstore. For campers, head to Bunnings, especially for stove gas, which is 4 times cheaper than elsewhere.

WHAT YOU ABSOLUTELY MUST HAVE

We travel all year round with them, here are our essential accessories.

Digital nomad in New Zealand

New Zealand is clearly not the country of digital nomadism, even if the infrastructures are very good. You can also find coworking in all major cities of the country with good wifi, chairs and offices on top, and sometimes even a few events. The worry is that they are mostly very animated and populated. Only premises in Startup or in Business occupy them. It is therefore possible and relatively easy, but only to work not necessarily to settle in the long term.

Network coverage is very good in cities and globally in urban areas. Watch out for more remote corners. The landscape is surrounded by mountains, we are often in the white zone. The advantage is that the French Free package offers a 25-GB internet portability in the country at no additional cost, SMS and unlimited communications. A real plus!

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