New Zealand's seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere, with summer spanning December to February and winter from June to August.

A temperate climate with no defined wet or dry season, rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year. Summers are warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying various water activities. In winter, the mountains are blanketed with snow, offering excellent skiing opportunities in alpine regions. However, outside the mountainous areas, winter temperatures are generally mild and rarely drop below freezing.

During summer, longer sunshine hours and warmer temperatures does mean you can pack more sightseeing and outdoor adventures into your day, but with most people choosing to travel to New Zealand over those months, the downside can be that popular attractions are more crowded and in smaller towns it may be harder to find available accommodation throughout New Zealand.

Travelling at other times of the year can mean having places to yourself and accommodation at a cheaper rate.

Hotels and car rentals and popular activities often fill up quickly especially during the popular summer months. Start a conversation with us and booking early ensures more available choice of accommodation and activities.

Ideally you should be aiming to plan and book 6 months in advance of your arrival. But don't worry if your timeframe is shorter than this we are here to help!

There are more pros than cons choosing a car and staying at a hotel than choosing a campervan.

While larger campervans are spacious and comfortable, they’re also more expensive than car rental and can be tricky to drive on many of the scenic, but challenging, NZ roads (and parking is a problem).

Many of our windy back country roads are not suitable for campervans. if a large vehicle is stuck, it can be costly to organise a tow.

Remember you will also have the problematic job of connecting and disposal of your sewage and other water waste.

Opting for a car rental gives you unparalleled flexibility and comfort without the hefty price tag and complications of a campervan.

For a more in-depth comparison, read more here

Visitors to New Zealand need a passport valid for at least three months beyond their planned departure date. Additionally, some travellers may require visas.

Please see and only use the official New Zealand Immigration link below.

Before you travel to New Zealand | Immigration New Zealand

Most visitors must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) and pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy before travelling to New Zealand.

NZeTA application - request an NZeTA | Immigration New Zealand

For more details on visitor regulations, visa exemptions, and visa waivers, please visit Immigration New Zealand

You can legally drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months if you have either a current driver's licence from your home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP). After 12 months you are required to convert to a New Zealand licence. For most up to date information see NZTA-Driving in New Zealand

We work with our guests to match their accommodation preferences. We might suggest a mix of different accommodation types, so you get to experience the best kiwi hospitality.

Our priority when recommending accommodation for our guests is quality, quiet, clean and comfortable accommodation.

We have numerous recommendations available for you to choose from.

Hotels
Just like hotels you are familiar with in your own country, New Zealand Hotels are generally larger establishments with multiple rooms, often offering a range of amenities such as restaurants, bars, swimming pools, car parking and room service.

There are a number of boutique hotels that offer high standards of service we can recommend.

Motels
Generally smaller family run businesses offering a practical and more affordable option for travelers exploring the country. Units often have kitchenettes or cooking facilities. Many motels offer continental breakfast options (cereals/toast/spreads/tea/coffee).

Farm Stay
Accommodation on a working farm, offering guests a unique opportunity to experience rural life. These are rural so dining options are often limited.

Bed and Breakfast (B&B)
You’ll often find a more personalised warm and welcoming atmosphere at these small establishments typically offering a home-cooked breakfast.

After connecting with us via our enquiry form, we will contact you to arrange a live video consultation.

The consultation session allows us to understand your individual needs, interests and what you want to get from your trip. They are also an excellent way for you to understand what New Zealand and Crafted Pathways Travel has to offer! We allow 2 hours for a consultation.

The cost of a Video Consultation and personalised travel plan is $230 NZD.

If you choose to book your New Zealand trip with us, the consultation fee will be credited to the total trip cost.

The Travel Plan is a detailed New Zealand itinerary, specifically tailored to suit your interests.

It includes details of accommodation, car rental, activities and attractions that best alight with your preferences.

We then work with you to adjust the plan if you’d like any changes.

Prices are quoted in New Zealand dollars (NZD) and include 15% Goods & Services Tax (GST).

When you are happy with your itinerary, a 20% deposit is required to confirm the arrangements.

Final payment is then due 60 days prior to your departure.

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions page.