While New Zealand is generally thought of as a pretty safe country to visit, it’s still a good idea to take the same level of care and caution as you would at home. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times when you’re out and about, and make sure any valuables are kept safely locked away when not in use.
Crime rates are fairly low, however, petty theft is not unheard of. Try to avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you and be vigilant when using ATM machines. It’s a good idea to make copies of any travel documents, passports or other forms of ID in case you lose the originals. You should also note down any serial numbers on electronics like cameras and laptops so they can be traced if they’re stolen.
When it comes to protecting yourself from nature, you’ll find New Zealand is thankfully not home to any poisonous insects, snakes or scorpions. This means you enjoy its rural areas without fear of being bitten or stung.
New Zealand Safety Tips
Safety in New Zealand’s Cities and Towns
If you’re planning on visiting New Zealand’s cities and larger towns, it’s worth being extra cautious with your belongings, especially if you’re wandering around at night. Avoid walking through city parks or unlit areas afterdark and never accept lifts from strangers. It’s good practice to make sure someone knows where you are at all times if you’re travelling on your own, too.
Safety on New Zealand’s Roads
If you’re planning on hiring a car during your vacation, remember that vehicles drive on the left hand side of the road in New Zealand. You should give way when turning right, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or when using a mobile phone.
The legal drinking age in New Zealand is 18, although you may be asked for ID if you look under 25. It’s against the law to drink any amount of alcohol and then drive if you’re under 20 years old.
Emergency Services in New Zealand
If you urgently require the assistance of the police, ambulance services or fire department, New Zealand’s emergency phone number is 111 and calls are free. You’ll also find police stations in all cities and large towns if you need to report a crime during your vacation.
For more information, visit the US travel advisory page here.
Is New Zealand safe? Hear from our Destination Experts
Your safety is our top priority. Our destination experts are happy to advise on where to visit and general safety tips for New Zealand. During your trip, your dedicated Trip Coordinator, guide and chauffeur will make you that you are always cared for and well advised. Contact us for an obligation-free, seamless and safe New Zealand tour itinerary that is personalized to your interests and preferences.
Seasons in New Zealand are the exact opposite of what they are in the northern hemisphere. While the climate in the country is generally quite pleasant, it varies significantly depending on which region of the country you’re in. Here are some tips from our experts.
Although New Zealand is a relatively small country, it’s an incredibly diverse one, filled with great grasslands, towering mountains, warm pacific waters, and a vibrant metropolitan culture. Thanks to this diversity, there is no shortage of things to do in New Zealand.
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December 2025
Rating 5/5
Rating 5 out of 5 stars
Enchanting Travels made our dream vacation to New Zealand a reality for us, from initial planning to pre-trip prep, and support throughout, they helped take the burden of trip logistics off our shoulders so we could focus on being present in each and every moment of New Zealand’s wonders.
Joshua Rank
November 2024
Rating 5/5
Rating 5 out of 5 stars
Our experience with enchanting travels was absolutely out of this world. We utilized their services to plan our honeymoon to New Zealand and boy, did they deliver!! Rebecca, went above and beyond to ensure we were truly happy with our itinerary and that It included a good balance of excursions as well as relaxing on our trip. She was receptive to any questions or feedback we had. Our travel liaison, Emma, was there every step of our trip to make sure we were comfortable, never lost, and always had the answers to any of our questions. This trip was truly the trip of a lifetime and a bucket list trip for my husband and I. We would not hesitate to utilize their services for another trip and we would definitely recommend them to any of our friends and family.
Nicole Rapp
March 2024
Rating 5/5
Rating 5 out of 5 stars
I have had experience planning group trips with dear friends and this was by far the most well planned trip I have had the pleasure of putting together. Kelly and Megan listened to all of our ideas and requests and followed through on every front. Knowing that our trip coordinator, Megan Cena was double checking all of our hotels and activities a couple of days before arrival made a huge difference. We were expected at all of the arranged accommodations, no surprises! The quality of the private small group tours we participated in was exceptional. The tour guides were top-notch. We traveled by bus, train,ferry, airplane and luxury van and every piece of our trip went beautifully. Also, one ferry was cancelled and Enchanting Travels was working right away to get us on the next ferry. Having contact with Megan throughout our trip was another plus- she would write every night to ask how that day had gone. A wonderful vacation!
Patty Molten
November 2023
Rating 5/5
Rating 5 out of 5 stars
Enchanting Travels has again organized and supported a fantastic trip for us. I highly recommend them, especially if you are venturing into unknown countries where English is not the primary language.
Jessica Anne Gourlay-Langlois
November 2023
Rating 5/5
Rating 5 out of 5 stars
Enchanting Travels was awesome! They tailored the perfect trip for my husband and I. I highly recommend!
Sydney Cannon
February 2023
Rating 5/5
Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The one thing that has always stopped me from planning a trip was time! A massive thank you to Rose for being absolutely amazing, patient and flexible with my busy schedule! I had such an amazing time and Rose made sure all my requirements for a holiday was met! There was fun and adventure, and also relaxation and scenic. I will definitely be booking another trip through Enchanting Travels again!
Regina Hong
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