How to Explore New Zealand in a Budget-Friendly Way in 2022

New Zealand is known for its breathtaking landscapes, stunning natural wonders, and friendly people. It’s no surprise that thousands of tourists flock to the island nation every year. However, exploring New Zealand can be an expensive affair. But don’t worry, with these tips, you can explore New Zealand in a budget-friendly way.

Plan your trip according to the seasons

To save money, plan your trip according to the season. The peak season in New Zealand is from December to February. During this time, flights and accommodations are expensive, and popular tourist attractions are crowded. Consider traveling during the shoulder season, which is from September to November and March to May. You will still enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodation

New Zealand offers several budget-friendly accommodation options, such as camping grounds, hostels, and backpackers. Camping is by far the cheapest option if you’re on a tight budget. You can rent camping gear, and pitch your tent in a campground for as little as $10. Hostels are another affordable option, and you can opt for a private room or share a dormitory with other travelers.

Public Transportation Is Your Friend

Public transportation in New Zealand is reliable, safe, and affordable. You can save a lot of money by opting for public transportation instead of renting a car. The public transportation network covers most of the country, including rural areas. You can buy a 10-trip pass or hop-on-hop-off bus tickets to save more money. You can also explore cities on foot or rent a bicycle.

Cook Your Meals Instead of Eating Out

Eating out in New Zealand can be expensive, but don’t worry, you can still enjoy delicious meals while saving money. Most hostels and backpackers have communal kitchens where you can cook your meals. You can also buy fresh produce from local markets and supermarkets. Cooking your meals is not only budget-friendly but also allows you to experience the local food culture.

Explore Free Tourist Attractions

New Zealand has several free tourist attractions that are worth exploring. Some of the popular free attractions include hiking trails, beaches, parks, and museums. For instance, you can explore the free walking tours in Wellington or visit the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, which is free for all visitors.

Conclusion

Exploring New Zealand doesn’t have to break the bank. With these tips, you can enjoy all that New Zealand has to offer while staying within your budget. Remember to plan your trip according to the seasons, choose budget-friendly accommodation, opt for public transportation, cook your meals, and explore free tourist attractions. Have a fantastic budget-friendly trip to New Zealand!