Your New Zealand adventure starts here.
To stay flexible, you need gear that handles Aotearoa’s wild weather and everything from hiking to working.
This is our honest take on what you actually need for the journey of a lifetime.
✅ Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
✅ Working Holiday Visa approval letter
✅ Driver’s license (international permit if needed)
✅ Printed copies of important documents (passport, visa, insurance)
✅ Travel insurance details
✅ Bank card & backup card (Wise/Revolut recommended)
✅ 4,200 NZD to enter New Zealand on a WHV
✅ 4-8 T-shirts
✅ 1-2 long-sleeve shirts
✅ 1-2 hoodies/sweaters
✅ 1 warm jacket (waterproof & windproof)
✅ 2-3 pairs of pants (jeans, hiking pants, or leggings)
✅ 2 pairs of shorts
✅ 10+ pairs of underwear (you can never have enough, trust me)
✅ 8+ pairs of socks (incl. warm hiking socks)
✅ Swimwear (New Zealand has the best swimming spots so bring a couple pairs!)
✅ Lightweight scarf & gloves (for winter months)
✅ Flip-flops (essential!)
✅ Sneakers or hiking shoes (good grip for trails)
✅ Casual shoes (for everyday/work)
✅ Work boots (if doing farm/physical work)
✅ Comfortable work pants/shorts
✅ Hat (Wide brimmed is best) & sunglasses (for outdoor work)
✅ Reusable water bottle
✅ Toothbrush & toothpaste
✅ Shampoo & soap (solid bars to save space)
✅ Deodorant
✅ Razor
✅ Small first-aid kit (plasters, painkillers, antiseptic)
✅ Sunscreen (New Zealand’s sun is intense!)
✅ Insect repellent (Sandflies are no joke!)
✅ Prescription medications (bring extra supply)
✅ Power adapter (NZ plug type I)
✅ Power bank (2 is helpful)
✅ Headphones/earbuds
✅ Backpack (40-60L for travel, daypack for daily use)
✅ Sleeping bag (if planning to camp)
✅ Travel towel (quick-dry)
✅ Headlamp/flashlight
✅ Packing cubes (very helpful for organization)
✅ Notebook & pen
✅ Laundry bag
✅ Ziplock bags (for storing food/snacks)
✅ Padlock (for hostel lockers)
✅ Small umbrella or rain poncho
✅ Reusable shopping bag
✅ Pack of cards (You will be popular in hostels!)
