

First Steps in New Zealand: The Step-by-Step Guide
A step-by-step overview of what awaits you after arriving in New Zealand.
Overview
- Intro
- Arrival
- Step 1 - Accommodation
- Step 2 - Bank Account
- Step 3 - Tax Number
- Step 4 - Car
- Step 5 - Work
- Misc - I Need Help
- Frequently Asked Questions

Nils (Team KiwiQuest)
Here’s a depiction of a new backpacker after arriving in New Zealand: Confusion.
Understandable, because what should you really tackle first after arriving? In what order do you do it all? And where exactly should you go? Uff!
Let’s shed some light on this.
So here are the first steps in New Zealand for backpackers. And not just listed randomly, but in logical order with specific and tested locations.
And additionally, we’ve got:
A few hidden rewards.
Let’s go!
Intro

Our First Steps...
Our arrival was anything but relaxed. After what felt like 20,000 years on the plane, we stood at the airport looking like this:
Anna: “Uuuugh…!”
Nils: “Aaargh…!”
No fun at all. And there was: Killer jetlag.
For free! Gotta love it!
Nevertheless, we dragged ourselves forward. Like two zombies. Collecting luggage. Drinking water. Finding toilets. Fighting through immigration. And then finally:
Out of the airport.
Aaah, fresh air!
We took a deep breath and let the sun shine on our faces for a while. Slowly, we started to relax. But then Anna asked the first big question…
Anna: “And what do we do next?”
Nils: “Well…”
Arrival
Okay, the first steps in New Zealand are up. In this section, it’s all about enabling you to find your way around New Zealand as quickly and effectively as possible after your arrival.
Internet, Phone, and Apps
Google Maps allows you to save maps offline. So, it’s best to download the map for Auckland (or Wellington, etc., if landing elsewhere) before your arrival, so you always know where to head next, even without the internet.
User question:
Which SIM card is worthwhile?
Getting your own SIM card is totally worth it. After all, you must be reachable in emergencies, you’ll make several calls in the coming weeks and months, and, of course, access important information on the internet.
You can get a SIM card right at the airport and have your pick. Be sure to quickly check out our article about Internet in New Zealand in advance, so you know which provider is the best for you. As a sneak peek – right now, Vodafone, Spark, 2degrees, and Skinny are worth considering.
Need help?
If you’ve booked the KiwiQuest Starter Pack, you receive a SIM card with it, so you don’t have to worry about this step. Handy!
User question:
Where is public WiFi available?
For the first 45 minutes, the best thing to do is surf for free via Auckland Airport WiFi. Just log in and off you go. Apart from that, there’s free WiFi in Auckland’s city center (CBD). It’s not particularly fast, but sufficient for the essentials. More on that in our article about Internet in New Zealand.
User question:
Which apps are worthwhile?
In general, there aren’t too many apps we recommend for your work and travel adventure. Google Maps was often very helpful for us. The same goes for Rankers and/or Campermate. And of course, Uber, if you don’t have your own car.
Transportation
So, you're at the airport and wondering how best to get to the city, your accommodation, or the car rental. Don't worry, you have plenty of options in Auckland. Here are a few:
Uber
The taxi of the future.
You pay comfortably with a credit card, and unlike normal taxis, there are no nasty surprises. The price is shown to you even before booking. It couldn't be easier!
Airport Shuttle
Door-to-door convenience.
SkyBus
Old-school to the city.
Mindset - Take it slow!
Let’s face it: You’ve had an extremely long flight. The strains of the journey and the associated jetlag can be a real challenge for body and mind. The goal for this first day is relaxation.
Reward
The flight is over! Now it's time to chill. This will help:
What's Next?
Okay, next question:
Where are you going to sleep tonight?
Let’s find that out.
Step 1 - Accommodation
Okay, so far so good. You’ve got an internet connection, you’re getting your bearings in Auckland, you’ve collected your luggage, and left the airport. Now it’s off to your first accommodation.
Your First Accommodation
After a strenuous flight, a cozy first place to stay is incredibly important to really arrive in New Zealand. Apart from the classic hotel, there are mainly three options for backpackers:
Hostel
The backpacker classic.
Couchsurfing
Mi casa es su casa.
Your advantage? You not only save heaps for accommodation, but get the best tips firsthand.
AirBnB
Do not disturb.
We recommend booking at least the first two or three nights in a hostel before you arrive. In our Starter Pack, your accommodation after your arrival is already included, by the way. Just saying.
Note:
Hostel Recommendation 1 - Haka Lodge
High quality at a top price. Haka Lodge lives up to New Zealand’s green image. The hostel in the heart of Auckland not only offers clean, comfortable rooms but also many tours. Our favorite.
Address
373 Karangahape Rd,
Auckland, 1010
View on Google Maps
Phone
09-379 4559
Booking
Note:
Hostel Recommendation 2 - City Lodge
Located right by the iconic Auckland Sky Tower, City Lodge offers 5-star accommodations for backpackers. The hostel has earned numerous awards and even private toilets in all rooms. Nice!
Address
150 Vincent St,
Auckland, 1010
View on Google Maps
Phone
09-379 6183
Booking
Note:
Hostel Recommendation 3 - Verandahs Lodge
You’ll find the hostel right in Mount Eden, at the foot of an extinct volcano. Free internet, a lovely spice garden, and lots of DVDs (or Netflix) for relaxing.
Address
6 Hopetoun St, Freemans Bay,
Auckland 1011
View on Google Maps
Phone
09-360 4180
Booking
Mindset - Still take it slow!
Especially during the first couple of days, it’s important to take things as calmly as possible. Treat yourself to a coffee (or two) and plenty of relaxation before diving into preparations.
Reward
Here's a little support for relaxing:
What's Next?
Woah, finally a bed! Have a good sleep first.
Because tomorrow is about the bank account and tax number.
Ready? Let’s go!
Step 2 - Bank Account
First, it’s about opening your bank account. You need it to work legally in New Zealand. Remember to make an appointment beforehand. Our Bank Tutorial provides a step-by-step guide.
The Best Spots for a Bank Account
The best areas in Auckland for bureaucratic stuff are the suburbs of Ponsonby, Parnell, and Devonport. There, you’ve got everything you need: bank, post office, library with free WiFi, cafes, and museums to chill.
Note:
Spot 1 - Ponsonby
Ponsonby is a great first stop, especially when starting. The ANZ there is an excellent choice for backpackers. Under our Starter Package, we often handle banking matters there. Ponsonby is just around the corner from Auckland City, easy to walk around, plus you can do a bit of shopping or chill in a cafe.
Address
308-312 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby
Auckland 1011
View on Google Maps
Phone
0800 269 296
Important
Be sure to make an appointment before visiting. Ensure the account is ready for tax number application after opening.
Note:
Spot 2 - ANZ in Parnell
As an alternative to Ponsonby, Parnell is very nice for starting off. ANZ is also a good choice here for your bank. Under our Starter Package, we often handle banking matters there.
Address
135 Parnell Rd, Parnell,
Auckland 1052
View on Google Maps
Phone
0800 269 296
Important
Be sure to make an appointment before visiting. Ensure the account is ready for tax number application after opening.
Note:
Spot 3 - ANZ in Devonport
Devonport is also a great first spot to start with. The ANZ there is a super choice for backpackers. Under our Starter Package, we often handle banking matters there.
Address
6 Victoria Rd, Devonport
Auckland 0624
View on Google Maps
Phone
0800 269 296
Important
Be sure to make an appointment before visiting. Ensure the account is ready for tax number application after opening.
Note:
A Bit More About Devonport
Devonport is one of Auckland’s oldest suburbs. Whether by car or ferry, within about 10 minutes you can escape the busy hustle and bustle of the city and focus on the important things in life. From here, you can also take a trip up Mount Victoria and let your soul dangle with a super awesome view of the city.
Mindset - First the Work!
Alright, it’s time to tackle the first bureaucratic stuff. It’s not that much fun, so we say: Work through it as quickly as possible and then reward yourself with something. :-)
Reward
Here's something quickly for your bank account:
What's next?
Amazing! Bank account done! What’s next?
Oh right, the tax number. Okay, super.
Ready? Let’s go!
Step 3 - Tax Number
Next up is the tax number (IRD Number). You’ll need this for work and job hunting. Conveniently, you can do this at the PostShop next door in either Devonport or Parnell. A step-by-step guide is available in our Tax Number Tutorial.
The Best Spots for the Tax Number
Again, the best spots are Devonport or Parnell, just because all the bureaucratic places are close together and there are plenty of beautiful places to explore nearby.
Note:
Spot 1 - Post-Shop in Devonport
Conveniently, the bureaucratic stuff in Devonport can be handled best, because after you open your bank account at ANZ, you can head directly next door to the PostShop for your tax number. Under our Starter Package, we always handle all tax number matters there.
Address
18 Clarence St, Devonport,
Auckland 0624
View on Google Maps
Phone
09-446 6642
Important
Ask the bank if the account is ready for tax number application before visiting.
Mindset - Let's get it done!
Getting both your bank account opened and your tax number applied for in one day is a great daily goal. So we say: Get it done! Even if it’s no fun.
Reward
Here's something so you don't lose your IRD number:
What's next?
Alrighty then, bank account and tax number sorted? Very nice!
Treat yourself to a reward! Because tomorrow is the car buying day.
Ready? Let’s go!
Step 4 - Car
Yay, you’ve handled the formalities and are ready for the adventure! Or is something missing? Oh! Right, you need your own car. All backpacker tips for buying a car can be found in our Car Tutorial.
Buy or Rent a Car?
Uh-oh, one of the first big questions in New Zealand is always whether it's worth buying or renting a car. In our eyes, it always depends on how long you plan to stay in New Zealand.
Rent a Car
Worth it if you're not staying longer than 3 months.
Buy a Car
Worth it, especially if you stay more than 3 months.
User question:
How do I spot a good deal?
Phew, there are several factors, like year of manufacture, mileage, and gut feeling. You can get an overview in our Car Tutorial or through our car checklist to take with you. Financially, cars with a self-contained certificate are particularly interesting.
User question:
How do I protect myself from scams?
Scams when buying a car are unfortunately a big issue among backpackers. To avoid buying a lemon, you should definitely keep a few basic rules in mind. If you have some time, please read the section on scams in our Car Tutorial or use our car purchase checklist.
The Most Important
To protect yourself, you should definitely rely on tools like Carjam or even a Pre-Purchase Inspection.
User question:
How much time should I plan for?
If you haven’t sorted out a vehicle in advance, you should schedule at least one to two weeks. You’ll definitely need internet to search for cars online, download vehicle reports, and register the car.
Good thing you by now have data on your phone. Let’s get started! You’ll find all the important stuff about cars for backpackers in New Zealand in our corresponding article. If you’ve booked our Starter Package, we’ll even help you with the car search. Just saying :-)
Alternatives to Your Own Car
A car is the best mode of transport in New Zealand. However, you also have some alternatives that we would like to introduce to you here. Most are a bit unconventional, but hey: everyone can have their own hobbies!
Bus Pass
Travel in a group.
Hitchhiking
Stick out your thumb.
Bicycle
Pedal power.
Mindset - Time to Chill!
If your financial reserves aren’t entirely depleted after buying a car, we think it’s time to relax a bit. After all, you’ve sorted out a bank account, tax number, and car purchase! So treat yourself to something!
Reward
How about a private concert, for example:
What's next?
Fantastico! You have your own car in New Zealand! So beautiful. Everyone’s happy.
Except the wallet. To help, it’s now time to find work.
Ready? Let’s go!
Step 5 - Work
There are plenty of backpacker jobs in New Zealand. Especially in the summer months, you will find numerous offers on orchards, vineyards, or in the hospitality sector. More on this in our Job Search Tutorial.
Best Job Search Resources
In addition to bulletin boards in hostels or newspapers, the best jobs are still found online. Here are a few websites that are worth checking out for job searching. More of them can be found in the tutorial.
Seasonaljobs
One of the first platforms for backpacker jobs. Doesn't look pretty, but it works.
Seasonalwork
More up-to-date and thus prettier. However, the range of jobs is slightly smaller.
Backpackerboard
A true classic: Backpackerboard has been around forever. You'll find a lot here.
Mindset - Adventure-Time!
Wow, the first steps in New Zealand are done. You can now start your backpacker adventure and we envy your courage. If you feel like it: get in touch. Let’s grab a coffee.
Reward
And just in case, there's this:
What's Next?
Well, that’s entirely up to you now. Have fun in New Zealand.
We wish you lots of ups and downs. But most importantly, a super adventure!
Ready? Let’s go!
Misc - I Need Help
If you want support with these things, maybe check out our Starter Pack. We support you with all the steps presented here and, in return, you support KiwiQuest a little.
Frequently Asked Questions
What other KiwiQuesters wanted to know...
User question:
How do I get my money to New Zealand?
It’s simple: Use Transferwise.
Alternatively, you can, of course, make a classic international transfer through your bank. But usually, pretty hefty fees come with that. Except for the N26 Bank because they automatically work with Transferwise in the background. Clever!
User question:
How can I make money in New Zealand?
If you don’t have a few thousand in the bank, your money reserves will run out quickly when you’re traveling. Uh-oh, now what?
First, the bank account…
To earn money in New Zealand, you first need a bank account. Find out step-by-step how and where to get one in our tutorial all about opening a bank account. The same goes for the tax number.
Then, the job…
Once you’ve got your bank account and tax number, all that’s left is to find a job to boost your cash reserves. Find everything you need in our step-by-step job search tutorial.
What else is there?
Latest articles on KiwiQuest
We wish you an amazing adventure!
Welcome to Team KiwiQuest!
Team KiwiQuest