If you're planning your big trip to New Zealand, chances are you've been searching up a storm. What to pack for New Zealand in December? What to wear for a two-week road trip? What to bring for a hike in Queenstown? Whether you're heading here for a week or a month, this guide has you covered.
As Kiwis, we’ve seen firsthand what visitors wish they had packed and what they didn’t need. This isn’t a checklist of just the basics. It’s what you really need to enjoy your time here comfortably, safely, and like a local.
Don’t Underestimate the New Zealand Sun!
Family beach day at Kaiteriteri, Nelson-Tasman, following the slip, slop, slap rule to stay sun safe! Image Credit. Miles Holden
Sunscreen, Sunglasses, Hat, Light Layers
Whether you’re hiking, skiing, cruising the Fiordland, or wandering city streets, one universal truth applies: the New Zealand sun is no joke. Our ozone layer is thinner here than in many other parts of the world, which means you’ll feel the UV rays faster and stronger, even on cloudy days. At midday on a sunny day, it can take as little as 15 minutes to get burnt, even if the weather forecast says it’ll be cloudy.
Locals live by the rule: Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen, slap on a hat and wrap on sunglasses. It’s a phrase Kiwi kids grow up hearing - taught in schools, seen in ads, and repeated by parents every summer. Trust us on this one. Sunscreen with high SPF is essential, and we have some excellent New Zealand ingredient-infused options like Supernatural SPF50+ Sunscreen or Manuka Honey SPF30 Day Cream available at Aotea Gifts, which visitors often pop into when they realise just how strong the sun is.
And if you do get burnt? A customer who got sunburned while skiing bought a bottle of the Culture Probiotic Night Recovery Water Cream by Antipodes, based on our recommendation. Just 15 minutes later, she came back to buy over a dozen more bottles to give to her friends because it immediately soothed her skin!
Dress for All Seasons In a Day
New Zealand Weather is Wild
One moment you’re bundled up in all your layers, and the next, you’re peeling them off under a surprisingly hot midday sun - that’s just typical New Zealand weather. It’s not unusual for the temperature to swing by 10°C or more within a single day, especially if you’re travelling across different regions or elevations.
That’s why layering is key. Here’s the golden rule: pack for flexibility, not bulk.
Base Layer:
Start with a breathable base layer to manage moisture and keep you comfortable on the move. Kapeka’s Lifestyle Merino and Merino Bodywear Range, made in New Zealand using extra-fine Merino wool, is our best recommendation. Merino wool is widely considered a great choice for base layers due to its natural moisture-wicking, temperature-regulating and odour-resistant properties, which means you can pack fewer items to pack for your 10-day or 3-week trip.
Middle Layer:
Add a warm middle layer like a jumper or sweater to trap heat when it cools off. Kapeka Knitwear, available at Aotea Gifts, uses quality materials like merino, alpaca, cashmere, cervelt and possum. Possum is known for its thermal qualities, a hollow fibre that traps in heat, keeping you comfortable on your next adventure. Natural Fibre-blend mid layers are the ultimate travel clothing, regulating your body temperature, just as good in summertime as in winter. These types of knitwear aren't as bulky as cotton hoodies and sweaters, which you might naturally gravitate to, making them perfect for travel because you can pack them down, saving you space in your suitcase and daypack. If you get the chance to purchase high-quality New Zealand knitwear, go for it. Not only is it perfect for travel with its warmth, practicality, and easy packability, but it's also something you'll keep reaching for once you're back home. It makes for a functional keepsake, full of memories and genuinely wearable beyond your trip.
Outer Layer:
Always carry a windproof, waterproof outer layer to handle sudden showers or gusty winds. Especially in places like Auckland and Wellington, nicknamed Windy Welly, umbrellas are no match for the gusts. A good rain jacket will serve you far better.
Handy Extras That Locals Swear By
Warm Accessories
Even in warmer months, it gets cold at night, especially in places like Queenstown or Christchurch. Merino gloves, socks, a beanie, or a scarf won’t take up much space but will keep you toasty.
Reusable Water Bottle
Can you drink the tap water in New Zealand? Absolutely, it’s clean, and what most locals drink every day. Bring a reusable water bottle and fill up at your hotel, holiday park, or public drinking fountains to save money (and plastic). Since bottled water isn’t something Kiwis usually buy, you might find it surprisingly expensive compared to countries where tap water isn’t drinkable. But as always, if you're unsure, check local guidelines before drinking from public sources.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Sneakers. So much of New Zealand is meant to be explored on foot, but don’t expect tidy paved paths everywhere. You’ll be walking gravel trails, muddy forest tracks, or hopping out of the car at a random sign that leads to a waterfall or stunning lookout.
Your shoes will definitely get dirty, and that’s a sign you’ve done it right. Just make sure to brush off all the dirt and mud before packing them for your flight to New Zealand. Biosecurity is a big deal here: “Our country. Our lakes, rivers, lands and seas. Our home. This fragile place is all we've got. It's vulnerable to pests and diseases. That’s why we guard it, as if our way of life depends on it. Because it does!” – Biosecurity New Zealand
Jandals and Togs
Snorkelling with the New Zealand fish in Whitianga, Coromandel. Image Credit. Miles Holden
Planning a visit in the warmer months or daring enough to go for a winter plunge in the South Island? Pack flip-flops (“jandals” here), swimwear (“togs”), and a small packable towel. You’re bound to stumble across a beach, river, or hot spring and be tempted to jump in - even if you hadn’t planned to!
Soak in a private hot pool looking over the Shotover River. Image Credit. Onsen Hot Pools, Destination Queenstown
Motion Sickness Pills
Whether you’re tackling winding roads on a South Island road trip or heading out on a Milford Sound cruise, motion sickness can strike. It’s a small thing to pack that can make a huge difference.
Power Adapter & Portable Charger
New Zealand uses Type I plugs (same as Australia). If you’re visiting from the US, UK, Asia, or Europe, you’ll need an adapter. Portable battery packs are also a lifesaver on long days out when you’re snapping photos or navigating with Google Maps. Just make sure you pack it into your carry-on luggage, not checked baggage!
One Last Thing… Leave Room in Your Bag
You’ll probably want to bring something back home. Whether it’s a cozy Merino sweater, natural skincare, or New Zealand-made chocolate, you’ll find beautiful keepsakes at Aotea Gifts. With locations in Auckland, Queenstown, Christchurch and Tekapo, it’s an easy stop on your journey.
Need help choosing? Our multilingual staff are happy to help you find the perfect souvenir, even if you’re not sure what that is yet.
Packing Tips Based on Your Itinerary
What to pack for 10 days in New Zealand:
Pack light, layer smart. Bring a mix of activewear, one nice outfit for dinner, and your core basics.
What to pack for 3 weeks in New Zealand:
Add variety in layers and be ready for laundry. Merino clothes are great because they don’t need frequent washing.
What to pack for Cruise Stopovers:
Comfortable shoes for shore excursions, layered clothing, and waterproofs.
What to Pack for Hiking Trips:
Activewear, waterproof boots, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
What to Pack for Study Abroad
Include casual and weather-adaptable clothes. Think about seasons, especially if you're starting in winter.
Packing Tips Based on Your Destination
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Auckland: City style is casual. Pack for warm days and cooler evenings.
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Wellington: Always bring a windproof layer - it's called (Windy Welly for a reason)
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Christchurch: More seasonal variation - warm summers, chilly winters.
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Queenstown: Bring warm layers any time of year.
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North Island: Warmer and more humid.
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South Island: Cooler, especially inland.
Final Note
Planning your trip to New Zealand is exciting, and packing doesn’t have to be stressful. With these local insights, you’ll be prepared for anything from the blazing sun to alpine breezes.
Safe travels, and see you down here.
Disclaimer: Some images used in this article are sourced from the Tourism New Zealand and Destination Queenstown image libraries. These images are licensed for worldwide use in unpaid digital and print media solely for the purpose of promoting New Zealand, including Queenstown, as a visitor destination. No images are used in any paid advertising.
