Essential Documents & Finances

 

✅ 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

 

Clothing (All-Season & Layering is Key!)

 

✅ 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-Specific Gear

 

✅ Work boots (if doing farm/physical work)

✅ Comfortable work pants/shorts

✅ Hat (Wide brimmed is best) & sunglasses (for outdoor work)

✅ Reusable water bottle

 

Toiletries & Health

 

✅ 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)

 

Tech & Gadgets

 

✅ Power adapter (NZ plug type I)

✅ Power bank (2 is helpful)

✅ Headphones/earbuds

 

Backpacking & Camping Gear (Optional, but Useful if you want to experience New Zealand to its fullest)

 

✅ 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)

 

Miscellaneous

 

✅ 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!)