A road trip through New Zealand is one of the most beautiful travel experiences you can have. Winding roads through mountains, past glacial lakes and through ancient forests — this is a country made to be explored by car. But good preparation is essential, because amenities can be hours apart. This checklist makes sure you don't forget anything.

Documents and admin

  • Passport: valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure date.
  • NZeTA (visa): most visitors need an NZeTA, available via the app (NZ$ 17) or website (NZ$ 23). Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
  • IVL (International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy): NZ$ 35, paid together with the NZeTA.
  • International driving permit: required alongside your national licence. Obtain one before you leave home.
  • Travel insurance: including cover for car hire and outdoor activities. Check that hiking and water sports are covered.
  • Copies: keep digital copies of all documents in your email or cloud.

Campervan and car essentials

Whether you rent a campervan or drive a regular car, these items are indispensable:

  • GPS or offline maps: download Maps.me or Google Maps offline — mobile coverage outside cities is unreliable.
  • 12 V car charger for phone and camera.
  • Torch or head lamp: essential for campsites without lighting.
  • Basic tools: a multi-tool, duct tape and rope solve more problems than you'd think.
  • Spare tyre and jack: check that your hire vehicle has these and that you know how to use them.
  • Jerry can (optional): on remote South Island routes, petrol stations can be more than 100 km apart.

Campervan-specific items

  • Cooking gear (most rentals include this, but check the inventory list).
  • Bedding or sleeping bag — some rental companies offer this as an option.
  • Dish soap, sponge, tea towels.
  • Rubbish bags — "Leave No Trace" is the norm.
  • Collapsible water container for freedom-camping spots.

Clothing for all weather conditions

New Zealand weather is unpredictable. The layering system is your best strategy:

  • Base layer: merino wool or synthetic (no cotton).
  • Mid layer: fleece or down vest.
  • Outer layer: waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar).
  • Rain trousers: lightweight and packable.
  • Hiking boots: broken in and waterproof.
  • Flip-flops or sandals: for campsites and showers.
  • Sun hat and sunglasses: UV radiation is intense.

Health and safety

  • First-aid kit: plasters, bandages, painkillers, antihistamines, blister plasters.
  • Sunscreen SPF 50+: the ozone hole over New Zealand is real. Reapply every 2 hours.
  • Insect repellent: against sandflies, especially on the South Island.
  • Medication: bring an adequate supply plus a prescription (in English).
  • Drinking water: tap water is safe almost everywhere, but bring a refillable bottle.

Technology and communication

  • Local SIM card: buy a prepaid SIM at the airport (Spark or Vodafone). Spark has the best coverage outside cities.
  • Power bank: at least 10,000 mAh for longer periods without power.
  • Universal adapter: New Zealand uses type I plugs (same as Australia).
  • Camera + extra memory cards: you will take more photos than you think.

Money and payment

  • Debit and credit cards are accepted everywhere, but carry some cash for remote areas.
  • Notify your bank that you are travelling to New Zealand to avoid your card being blocked.
  • DOC campsites sometimes require pre-payment online or a pass.

Driving in New Zealand: the basics

A few crucial differences from driving in most of Europe or North America:

  • Drive on the left: takes 1–2 days to adjust. Pay extra attention at turns and roundabouts.
  • One-lane bridges: common on the South Island. Road signs indicate who has right of way.
  • Speed limits: 100 km/h on most open roads, 50 km/h in urban areas.
  • Gravel roads: you will encounter them. Drive slowly and keep your distance.
  • Fatigue: plan no more than 3–4 hours of driving per day. The roads are narrow and winding — it takes more energy than you expect.

With this checklist in hand you are ready for an unforgettable road trip. Print it out, tick things off, and enjoy the journey — New Zealand does the rest.