Tips for a Low Cost New Zealand Holiday

Simply getting to New Zealand is costly from just about anywhere. Once you're here, the last thing you want to do is see what's left of your travel budget disappear before you've had the chance to do everything you wanted.

Saving money on a New Zealand holiday is completely do-able though. It just requires a little bit of foresight and an understanding of the areas in which you can cut costs...

You vehicle rental costs will definitely add up over the course of your holiday... Fortunately, there are some great options in New Zealand for a low cost car hire.

Shop around online for great deals... You can often get great deals on the Internet. It's also worth keeping an eye out for relocation specials. This is when a car hire company needs a vehicle moved from one outlet to another... They will often let you use the car for free (or for just the cost of insurance) plus gas, as long as you return it within a certain time frame.

There are loads of campsites and holiday parks around New Zealand that will provide you with toilet facilities and sometimes BBQs and showers for free or just a small fee. Either bring a tent (or buy one in New Zealand) or think about renting a campervan.

If you don't think you can go that long without clean sheets and a TV fix, think about alternating hotel stays with camping.

Eating out is extremely expensive in New Zealand, and a lot of the cheap convenience food isn't anything you want to eat three times a day for a week (think french fries and meat pies).

A cooler for the car and a trip to the grocery store can save you a lot of money, and you'll be able to eat healthfully.

Grab bread, cheese, peanut butter, jam, crackers, salami, fresh produce... Whatever you think you'll want. If you'll be staying somewhere with BBQ facilities, you could also grab some meats and vegetables for grilling.

A lot of the 'must-dos' in New Zealand are quite expensive... Bungee jumping, whale watching and Milford Sound boat tours will all empty out your wallet (though getting to participate in these activities is definitely worth it!)

But a lot of the great attractions in New Zealand are completely free. Check out the Department of Conservation's website for parks and trails all through the country that can be accessed at no cost. Taking a multi-day hike (you'll just need to pay the small hut fees) is a great way to save money on your trip, while seeing the best of what New Zealand has to offer.

Just like everywhere else in the world, New Zealand's cities are more expensive to visit than the rural areas. Everything from accommodation to entertainment to food and drink is pricier.

If possible, pick up your rental car from Auckland airport and get out of town. You can always explore the urban centres from a cheap hotel in the suburbs.