Overview
Many people think New Zealand is similar to Australia but they couldn’t be more wrong! If you’ve seen Lord of the Rings then you’ve seen what New Zealand is like. Imagine Britain but with great weather.
White sands beaches, snow capped mountains and wild rivers and huge lakes. It’s the worlds adventure playground as well with adrenaline sports everywhere. Hows about seeing whales or swimming with dolphins? New Zealand is the gem of the Southern hemisphere.
Visas
There are two main visas gappers can use for New Zealand:
New Zealand Visitor Visas – British citizens can get a six month visitor visa on entry to NZ. No application or forms are needed just turn up and they’ll pop your visa in at passport control. If you want to stay longer you must apply at the Immigration office when in NZ
New Zealand Working Holiday Visa – British citizens who are between the ages of 18-30 can apply for a Working Holiday visa (WHV) . The WHV allows gappers to spend up to two years finding casual work as they travel around. This is a great option to help fund your travels and a good way to meet other travellers. Around 10,000 brits head off to NZ each year to undertake a Working Holiday so you wont be alone!
Flights
Australia is on the major airline routes so there are many companies that can get you out there. Direct flights to New Zealand range from £700 - £900 and fly from most airports in the UK. Somewhere along the way the plane will have to land and refuel usually in Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, Dubai or Tokyo. Its worth considering taking a stopover and getting some extra travelling in on the way out or on the way home. You may also want to look into getting a round the world flight if you are visiting more countries than just New Zealand. A round the world ticket will save you money and be more flexible than a direct one.
Health and Safety
New Zealand has a great health service but it’s all private. So it’s important that you take out medical insurance as even a visit to the GP will cost you! New Zealand has no dangerous animals or creepy crawlies.
Activities
Swimming with dolphins
Whale watching
Skydiving and bungee jumping
White water rafting
Skiing and snowboarding
Related Companies
Bunac (www.bunac.co.uk) – organise Working Holiday trips to NZ
Conclusion
New Zealand is not as well known as other gap year destinations but is quickly becoming a popular destination. The Working Holiday Scheme is a great option for spending your full year in NZ and living life like a Kiwi.
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