
Plan your trip to New Zealand efficiently
Enthusiastic about exploring the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand? Prepare for an unforgettable journey by planning your budget in advance in New Zealand Dollars (NZD).
Get familiar with local expenses and keep some cash for small towns, markets, transportation, off-the-road tours and tipping. While cards are accepted in most areas, having NZD in cash is more convenient. Secure the best AUD to NZD exchange rate online before your trip and enjoy 0% commission.
Practical tips for planning your NZD travel budget
- A tourist in New Zealand can expect to spend approximately NZD 50 to NZD 100 on food, including meals at mid-range restaurants or cafes.
- Transportation costs can range from NZD 20 to NZD 100 per day, accounting for public transport fares, occasional taxi rides, or car rentals.
- Accommodation expenses typically range from NZD 50 to NZD 200 per night, with options available for budget-conscious travellers as well as those seeking more luxurious stays.
50-200 NZD
Accommodation from budget-friendly to luxurious options per day.
NZD 50 to NZD 100
Average food budget per person per day

Good to know
Some price indications in New Zealand

NZD $20 to $100
Intercity bus

1-3 NZD
Lemon & Paeroa (local drink)
100-300 NZD
Off road trekking

20-50 NZD
A Hangi meal

10-30 NZD
Taxis and short ride-sharing services

Free
Te Papa Tongarewa
(Museum of New Zealand)

Some suggestions for your stay
- Bungee jumping: Feel the adrenaline rush with iconic jumps at Kawarau Bridge or the Nevis Bungy in Queenstown — experiences that have made New Zealand famous among thrill-seekers worldwide.
- Hiking: Explore the stunning landscapes of New Zealand on one of the many hiking trails, including the Abel Tasman Coast Track, Tongariro Alpine Crossing, or the Routeburn Track.
- Maori cultural experiences: Learn about the rich Maori culture and heritage through traditional performances, cultural tours, and visits to historic sites such as Te Puia in Rotorua.
- Wine tasting: Discover New Zealand's world-renowned wine regions, such as Marlborough, Hawke's Bay, and Central Otago, and sample award-winning wines.
- Scenic flights: Take a scenic flight over New Zealand's dramatic landscapes, including glaciers, mountains, and fjords, for a bird's-eye view of the country's natural beauty.
- Wildlife encounters: Spot native wildlife such as kiwi birds, seals, dolphins, and penguins on guided wildlife tours or eco-cruises.
Some facts about the New Zealand Dollar
New Zealand’s currency, the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), is divided into 100 cents and blends national symbols with modern security features. Understanding its denominations and history will help you read prices and pay with confidence across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Denominations of the New Zealand Dollar
The New Zealand Dollar was introduced in 1967, replacing the New Zealand Pound as part of the country’s move to a decimal currency system.
- Bank notes: $5, $10, $20, $50, $100.
- Coins: 10 cents, 20 cents, 50 cents, $1 (featuring a kiwi), $2.
Today’s banknotes continue to showcase respected New Zealanders alongside native flora and fauna—design themes carried through the current “Series 7” notes for a clearer, more accessible look.

Exchange currency AUD to NZD Dollar with Prosegur Change
Exchange your AUD to New Zealand Dollar online before you leave to lock in the current AUD to NZD exchange rate and enjoy 0% commission. Collect your travel money from our branches at airports like Gold Coast Airport, Melbourne Airport and in city centres.
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FAQs about New Zealand Dollar NZD
Here are some of the most common questions travellers ask before exchanging AUD to NZD — from where to get the best rates to practical tips for managing money while in New Zealand.
It’s generally wise to sort at least some NZD before you fly. Australia’s consumer regulator notes it can be cheaper to buy foreign cash in Australia — and that airport kiosks tend to be among the worst‑value options. Ordering online with Prosegur Change lets you lock in a great AUD → NZD rate, enjoy 0% commission, and collect at the airport or city centre.
Exchange rates move all the time. The easiest way to secure today’s rate is to check live updates and reserve your NZD online so you can lock it in before it changes. When you pay by card in New Zealand, choose to be charged in NZD (local currency) to avoid dynamic currency conversion (DCC) mark‑ups.
It depends on your travel style, but these ballpark figures help with planning:
- Budget trip: about NZ$80–130 per day (hostels, public transport, simple meals) → roughly NZ$560–NZ$910 for a week.
- Mid‑range trip: about NZ$200–300 per day (hotels, restaurants, activities) → roughly NZ$1,400–NZ$2,100 for a week.
Cards are widely accepted across New Zealand, including contactless payments. ATMs are common in bank branches, shopping areas and malls. Still, carry a little cash for small purchases or rural areas. (Most international cards work if they have a 4‑digit PIN.).
Tipping isn’t obligatory. It’s purely at your discretion for great service, and hotels/restaurants generally don’t add service charges.
There’s no cap on the amount you can carry, but you must declare NZ$10,000 or more (or foreign equivalent) when entering or leaving New Zealand by completing a Border Cash Report.
Banknotes: $5, $10, $20, $50, $100. Coins: 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, $2. Knowing these helps with small purchases and change.
Travelling soon?
Here's how to easily reserve your currencies online
1. Choose your currency
Determine the amount of travel money you will need to enjoy your trip.
2. Choose a date & a pick-up location
Collect your order from one of our exchange bureaus at major airports and city centre.
3. Collect & pay
Pay upon pickup and enjoy
your trip.