new zealand travel commercial

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Taika waititi definitely (maybe) stars in new zealand travel ad, the oscar-winning actor-writer-director-producer hypes his native country in meta short film.

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Filmmaker and actor Taika Waititi’s schedule is overflowing these days, with highlights that include walking in his first New York Fashion Week show for Hermès, popping into the MTV Video Music Awards and stumping for his soccer-themed flick Next Goal Wins on the film festival circuit. 

The long-gestating Star Wars film he’s supposed to write? That might still be happening. In the meantime, he’s become the chief creative officer for a namesake line of adaptogen-based beverages.

In short, Waititi is a very busy man. So if an ad shoot slips his mind, he can be forgiven. Or can he?

Waititi, clearly burning the candle at both ends, begs off his spokesman duties and sends his stunt double as a replacement to star in a travel campaign for his native New Zealand. The director, Jackie van Beek, is none too pleased.

Viewers, on the other hand, are in for a meta-infused treat—the setup has spawned a delightful long-form commercial for Tourism New Zealand , with a timely Blackbeard cameo and self-referential lines like these:

“I just can’t help right now,” Waititi says during an urgent phone call from van Beek. “I’m shooting season two of the hit show ‘Our Flag Means Death,’ and I just can’t let the fans down.”

Post-pandemic push

“No Place Like It On Earth,” “definitely starring Taika Waititi” per the cheeky credits, drops as the country tries to rebound from Covid-era declines in its international tourism.

Prior to 2020’s lockdown and New Zealand’s border closings, international tourism accounted for about 5.5% of gross domestic product, per BBC News. Overseas guests topped 528,000 in 2019, a number that fell to 178,426 in June 2023, according to Statista.

“Competition for visitors is fierce, and New Zealand needs to work hard to encourage visitation and stand out,” said René de Monchy, chief executive of the tourism board.

“No Place Like It On Earth,” from agency Augusto, shows off a range of the country’s locations and experiences, including whitewater rafting in Rotorua, a scenic flight over Mount Tarawera, dolphin watching in Kaikōra and wine tasting in Auckland.

‘New Zealand needs you ‘

The 3 1/2-minute film also features Waititi’s enthusiastic narration and pre-planned flubs in the production, like unusable shots of stand-in Jade Daniels’ face. “This was a horrible idea,” van Beek says in the video. She eventually lures Waititi into the commercial with the plea: “I need you—New Zealand needs you.”

When he does appear in the ad, Waititi gives van Beek unsolicited tips on how to direct.

“There’s nothing I enjoy more than pretending to be myself bickering with Taika over what makes a good director,” van Beek said in a statement.

Emotional Airline Ad Follows an Iguana’s Skyward Journey

In the cleverly contrived scenario and elsewhere, Waititi continues as a tireless supporter of the home country where he filmed Our Flag Means Death and other projects. 

“I always tell people you can go surfing in the morning and then drive a couple of hours and be skiing in the evening,” Waititi said in a statement. “I don’t think there’s anywhere else on earth where you can do that—it has everything.”

“No Place Like It On Earth” will get distribution on HBO’s Max streaming platform and social channels in the U.S., Australia, Germany, the U.K. and parts of Asia.

CREDITS:   

Client – Tourism New Zealand  Agency – Augusto  Writer and Director – Jackie van Beek  Stills – Graeme Murray  Post Production – Augusto  Sound – Bespoke Post

T.L. Stanley

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T.L. Stanley is a senior editor at Adweek, where she specializes in consumer trends, cannabis marketing, plant-based food products, pop culture and creativity.

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New Zealand starts new tourism campaign as post-COVID visits lag

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Air New Zealand launches new ‘We Fly For You’ campaign produced and directed by Eight

Directed by award-winning Jamie Lawrence and produced by Claire Kelly, Air New Zealand has launched its new campaign ‘We Fly For You’ on TV, digital and social channels across New Zealand.

In March, Shine and Air New Zealand appointed Eight, director Jamie Lawrence and producer Claire Kelly to the project.

The campaign was shot in April and features 30 different narratives featuring over 150 talent, including 100 proud Air New Zealanders.

Says Kelly: “This was a great opportunity for us to get on board and produce what we think is a really great feel-good campaign. We worked with an outstanding team to pull this together in a relatively short pre-production period. Jamie did an amazing job, and we are very happy with the end result.”

Says director Jamie Lawrence (pictured below), known for his uncommon empathy that translates to his work states: “This has been an incredible story to tell for Air New Zealand – a story that captures the spirit of the age we’re in as Kiwis. Part of my passion for telling this story is that I wanted people to feel less isolated, and more open and connected to the diversity of the people around them. This meant both in front of and behind the camera. We had the privilege of capturing real people in their home, speaking their language; reuniting old friends on screen in real time; along with casting over 100 Air New Zealanders and their whānau. At a time when the world is dividing and separating us, this story is about the reasons we fly to connect. It’s the kaupapa of the campaign and I’m so proud to be part of it.”

Says Katie Millington, managing director and executive producer, Eight: “It’s an exciting time for Eight on so many levels, it’s incredibly rewarding to see directors like Jamie coming up through our stable and giving them ownership to push into their own creative goals as part of a forward-thinking production company.”

Eight is proud to be a female led team, working with aspirational brands like Air New Zealand, whose rebuild coincides with Eight’s brand rebirth, especially in Australia where they’ve acquired two new rising stars – director Courtney Brookes and producer Jess Belgiovane.

Client: Air New Zealand Agency: Shine Communications Production Company: Eight Director: Jamie Lawrence Producer: Claire Kelly Executive Producers: Katie Millington and Claire Kelly Director of Photography: Marty Williams Editor: Alex O’Shaunessey Music Publishing Clearance: Franklin Road – Jonathan Mihaljevich Music Mechanical Performance: Drax Project | UM Music rearrangement for AV, & Sound Design: Liquid Studios – Pete van der Fluit and Craig Matushka

16 Comments

I love how this embodies all those emotions felt when finally reconnecting after such a long time. Great casting too team!

You managed to suck all of the feeling out human connection. How? It looks like you’ve managed to spend a whole lotta money on something that will at best get people to tap their feet. You might show people connecting, but you won’t make them feel connected.

The insight hasn’t really moved on from that amazing work done all those years ago (by Colenso), but the execution is dry AF. Opportunity missed.

Were we watching the same ad? I loved it. Yes I tapped my feet but it also reminded me of what I’m looking forward to when I travel again. Nice work Eight, Jamie & CK.

Add value, insight and a creative idea.

I coughed at ‘we fly for you’. It’s on a plane with ‘With you. For you.’

Loved it! Real, believable and makes me want to flyyyyyyyyy!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQIbrvWTPus

There was an agency, no?

“In March, Shine and Air New Zealand appointed Eight”

Well done it is absolutely fabulous and embodies all ,that we as New Zealanders who travel ,via our amazing airline,experience.

Please, flying nana, do tell, how did you find out about Campaign Brief?

It just completely lacks any visual or audio magic, boring song sung without heart, now new outtake, better without the cheesy line. I prefer the Where to Next work, at least it was visually stunning. This is a retail campaign without the prices.

Bloody great to see big airline clients getting back out there. Love the spot too.

You forgot to tell me if I can smoke on this flight and where the exits are.

OMG. It is the SAME idea and virtually same execution as the TVC British Airways is running in the UK. Who copied who?

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Its Borders Shut, New Zealand Prods Local Tourists to ‘Do Something New’

A viral ad campaign urges New Zealanders to find new ways to look at their own backyard — and to stop posting hot-tub vacation photos.

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By Natasha Frost

AUCKLAND, New Zealand — In the world envisioned by a recent Tourism New Zealand advertisement, a khaki-clad employee of the fictional Social Observation Squad rescues wayward travelers from the clichés of Kiwi tourism.

“Lower those arms nice and slow,” the officer, played by the comedian Tom Sainsbury, bellows through a megaphone to a pair of travelers committing a “summit spread-eagle” photo opportunity at Coromandel Peak, which overlooks the South Island’s Lake Wanaka. He pulls them away from the precipice and dispatches them instead on a bicycle winery tour.

This lighthearted ad, intended for a domestic audience, went viral internationally last week for its tongue-in-cheek call to action: Stop posting unimaginative photos on social media, please — enough with the hot-tub shots and images of glossy beachside legs.

But behind the irreverent slogan, “Please don’t travel under the social influence,” is a serious intent. Though the country has seen its pandemic-hit economy come surging back, regions that depend on foreign tourism remain devastated .

The New Zealand tourism board is, therefore, asking New Zealanders to do something quite difficult. Its “Do Something New ” campaign — the Social Observation Squad video is the latest installment — encourages locals to find new ways to look at what is right in front of their noses.

Before New Zealand closed its borders to international visitors, tourism constituted a significant part of its economy, employing nearly 230,000 people and contributing 41.9 billion New Zealand dollars ($30.2 billion) to economic output, according to the tourism board. About 3.8 million foreign tourists visited New Zealand between 2018 and 2019, with the majority coming from Australia.

Despite everyone’s best efforts, the domestic market simply can’t make up the losses. International tourists spend about three times as much per person as their domestic peers.

International tourists are also more likely to seek out and learn about local culture, like that of the Maori, New Zealand’s Indigenous people. So Maori cultural tourism has been hit particularly hard by the sharp drop in visitors from abroad, and some operators have had to adapt.

Nadine Toe Toe and her family run Kohutapu Lodge and Tribal Tours in Murupara, a northeastern village of about 2,000 people, of whom about 90 percent are Maori. Before the pandemic, about 98 percent of the company’s customers came from overseas.

“We wanted to create a really truthful, real, cultural experience that shows our history, but also our reality,” Ms. Toe Toe, 43, said. “When Covid struck and we lost all our business overnight, we were suddenly faced with the reality that the domestic market does not do ‘cultural products’ — it’s not on the priority list.”

To draw local visitors, the business had to rebrand, she said. That meant moving away from delivering an immersive experience of contemporary Maori culture, which many New Zealanders may already believe they know well.

“Before Covid, it was always our culture that was at the forefront — that we can proudly stand there and tell the world who we are, where we’re from, why it’s important to be Maori,” she said. “We are no longer a cultural tourism experience. We are now a lakeside accommodation.”

Larger businesses are also struggling. “We’re suffering, there’s no doubt about that,” said Sir John Davies, 79, a businessman who owns multiple ski fields, the guided walks at the Routeburn and Milford tracks and the Hermitage Hotel in Mount Cook National Park.

Recently, he said, the Hermitage had 20 guests, down from about 600 in a typical year. He has had to cut staff at the hotel from 230 to fewer than 50. “It turned over $18,000 yesterday — the lowest I’ve ever seen in 25 years,” he said. “We’re doing everything we can to get domestic tourists. I mean, we always have.”

Tourist spots around the world, from New York to the Himalayas , have struggled without sightseer dollars. In Bali, the Indonesian vacation spot, some hospitality workers have returned to farming . Some places, like Istanbul , have tried to soldier on. Others, like Hawaii , are reopening nervously.

“We cannot fill the hole that is left by a lack of international visitors,” said René de Monchy, the interim chief executive of New Zealand’s tourism board.

New Zealand’s own solution, via the “Do Something New” campaign, is to encourage New Zealanders to get out and experience “their own country as a visitor,” Mr. de Monchy said.

Since the borders closed, putting Bali and Bondi Beach in Australia off limits, New Zealanders have taken on the challenge of taking vacation in their home country with a certain patriotic zeal. Domestic tourism spending rose 12 percent year-over-year between June and October, according to the New Zealand-based economics consultancy Infometrics.

But while some have tackled “bucket list” activities or tours, many have continued to frequent the same old spots they always loved, flocking to the beaches of sunny Northland or the Coromandel peninsula over the summer months of December and January. In the meantime, tourist towns like Queenstown and Rotorua have floundered, as New Zealanders look past the destinations or experiences favored by international visitors.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has said that until most New Zealanders are vaccinated — an effort that could stretch well into the second half of the year — noncitizens will not be able to enter the country. For tourism business owners in New Zealand, that means there is no way to plan for the months ahead.

The hope is that foreign tourists will eventually return in droves. Though intended for folks at home, the “Do Something New” video is laying the groundwork abroad, too: It has been viewed hundreds of thousands of times and shared on social media around the world.

In the meantime, tourism operators like Ms. Toe Toe are left surveying the damage.

“We’ve shed so many tears, I don’t think I’ve cried so much my entire life,” she said. “People do not understand what we go through, what we’ve lost, and how we can’t even plan, because we don’t know. There’s no time frame. How long can you hold on for?”

Natasha Frost is a newsletter writer on the Europe Edition of the Morning Briefing. More about Natasha Frost

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Each New Zealand Specialist listed on this website has either Gold, Silver, or Bronze status. These statuses are only available through the 100% Pure New Zealand Specialist Programme (NZSP). The status of a specialist may change over time depending on what NZSP modules and training the specialist completes.

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This website is a platform to help connect visitors with travel agents, but Tourism New Zealand does not verify all of the information provided, and in using this website you acknowledge that Tourism New Zealand is not responsible for verifying the information provided by those travel agents. This website is not intended to provide assurance that any particular travel agent meets certain quality standards or legal obligations.

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Tourism New Zealand is a Crown entity governed by a board. Our executive team works with our global whānau to deliver on our purpose and objectives.

Our Role & Purpose | Tourism New Zealand

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Paul Brock, Chair

Paul has a strong background in governance, management, growth business development, brand development and marketing. His extensive background in the financial services industry has also included Kiwibank Co-Founder and then Chief Executive along with senior management positions with Westpac and Trust Bank.

Paul is currently Chair of the New Zealand Story Group, Foley Wines and the Innovation Programme for Tourism Recovery Advisory Panel. He is also Chair of Chubb Life Insurance New Zealand, a director of Southern Sky Dairies and a Council Member of Massey University. He started as the Tourism New Zealand Board Chair on 1 July 2023.

Kauahi Ngapora, Deputy Chair

Ngāi Tahu (Ngāti Kurī of Kaikōura), Waikato-Tainui (Ngāti Hauā/Ngāti Māhanga)

Kauahi is Chief Operations Officer of Whale Watch Kaikōura Ltd has 31-years’ experience across a range of roles focused on business, customer experience, tourism & travel, operations, governance, Māori and maritime.

He is currently a Director of Whale Watch Australia Pty Ltd and member of the Kaikōura Marine Guardians. He was the founding Chair of Destination Kaikōura, a past Director of Tourism Industry Aotearoa, and panel member on the Tourism Infrastructure Fund.

In 2018 he was privileged to be awarded the Outstanding Māori Business Leader Award at the University of Auckland’s Aotearoa Māori Business Leaders Awards. Kauahi was appointed to the board in September 2018 and deputy chair in October 2022.

Colleen Neville

Ngati Maniapoto, Waikato-Tainui

Colleen is a chartered accountant with extensive experience in diverse sectors including tourism, forestry, Agribusiness, property, and health services. 

Recent roles have included Chief Executive Officer of Te Arawa Group Holdings Ltd which had complemented her expertise in Māori post-settlement governance entities (PSGEs), Māori incorporations and Māori land trusts.

Her governance experience includes Scion (NZ Forest Research Institute Limited), Poutama Trust (business development services to Māori), Te Ohu Kaimoana (independent audit and risk member and director of portfolio management services), Te Kakano Whakatipu Ltd (Forestry), Te Arawa Agribusiness Ltd, Te Arawa Tourism Ltd, Matai Pacific Iwi Collective (Kiwifruit) and Waikato Tainui (Audit & Risk member).

Jan was previously Chair of Skyline Enterprises and board member of the Jumping New Zealand, Queenstown Chamber of Commerce, Chair of Destination Queenstown.

She was also General Manager of Millbrook Resort, Sky City Hotel & Convention Centre, and Millennium Queenstown. Jan was appointed to the New Zealand Tourism Board in June 2017.

Steve Chadwick QSO

Steve is a former Member of Parliament for Rotorua and from 2013 to 2022, the Mayor of Rotorua. As Mayor of Rotorua Lakes Council, Steve was a strong influence on Rotorua Lakes Council’s new way of doing business through the Rotorua 2030 Vision.

Under her leadership the council established a meaningful and ground breaking partnership with Te Arawa and secured significant partnership investment to enable iconic place-making projects. Steve’s career in Central Government began in 1999 and spanned twelve years, including three years as a List MP.

During this time, she held the portfolios of Associate Minister of Health, Minister of Conservation and Minister of Women’s Affairs. As Minister of Conservation, Steve advocated for the opening up of the Conservation Estate – believing that access, without leaving a footprint should be the ultimate goal. Her proudest achievements include sponsoring the Smoke free Environments Act and securing funding ($72 million) for the clean-up of Rotorua lakes.

In recent years, in addition to her mayoral responsibilities, Steve has chaired the Federation of Primary Health Aotearoa since its inception in 2018, was Co-Chair of the New Zealand Tourism Futures Taskforce from June 2020 to early 2021, and since 2018 has been on the Board of the Responsible Camping Working Group.

Jacqui Walshe

Jacqui is a dual New Zealand and Australian citizen and the long-term leader of The Walshe Group. The Walshe Group has provided dedicated airline and destination representation services to some of the world’s leading travel brands for over 40 years in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Hong Kong.

Jacqui holds a Bachelor of Business Studies, an MBA and is a qualified member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Jacqui is a member of Chief Executive Women Australia and Global Women NZ. She has had over 20 years’ experience as a Non-Executive Director in the travel and tourism, financial services and Not-For-Profit (aboriginal and youth services) sectors.

Jacqui is the former Deputy Chair, and Chair of the Audit & Finance committee, of the Australian Tourism Export Council; served as a member of the Tourism Restart Taskforce in Australia, commenced in response to Covid-19 and international border closures; and was a member of the Ministerial Advisory Council for the Minister of Trade, Tourism and Investment in Australian Federal Parliament (2020-2022) as tourism industry representative.

In 2022, Jacqui was awarded the Captain Trevor Haworth Outstanding Contribution by an individual to the Australian Tourism Export Industry.

Amanda Butler

Amanda is a commercial executive who has extensive experience within the FMCG sector across Australia and New Zealand. These have included Director, Global CEO and General Manager roles within global bluechip multinationals, private enterprise and healthcare.

Amanda also holds governance positions in various sectors including Health and Conservation with sub-committee responsibilities in IT/Cyber and HR/Remuneration. Amanda is experienced across ANZ in governance and management, with a particular focus on organisation transformation, brand growth and marketing communications. Amanda is an active member of the Australian and New Zealand Institute of Company Directors. Amanda was appointed to the board in August 2022.

Leah McDonald

Leah is the board secretariat. Email [email protected] to get in touch with any Tourism New Zealand board member.

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René de Monchy, Chief Executive

René de Monchy joined Tourism New Zealand in August 2015 bringing 20 years' global experience in consumer-led businesses, including local and international marketing roles for Fonterra and Heineken and Asia Pacific Breweries in Singapore.

René was appointed Chief Executive of Tourism New Zealand in April 2021.

Prior to this, he was Tourism New Zealand's Director Commercial. In this role, René led a team across 15 offices in 14 countries responsible for identifying key markets and audiences for travel to New Zealand. René also led the development of Tourism New Zealand's aviation strategy to guide partnerships with international airlines.

René is passionate about the tourism sector and active in tourism industry engagement, undertaking regular speaking engagements and panel discussions.

He is currently a member of five boards or panels:

• Tourism Industry Aotearoa
• New Zealand Screen Production Grant Significant Economic Benefits Verification Panel
• New Zealand Story Board
• New Zealand China Council
• Qualmark New Zealand Limited.

Bjoern Spreitzer, General Manager New Zealand & Business Events

Bjoern has been with Tourism New Zealand for the past 14 years, currently as recently as General Manager New Zealand & Business Events.

Prior to this he was General Manager Domestic, Global Manager Planning and Partnerships, and General Manager Americas & Western Europe.

In his current role, he's responsible for domestic marketing activity, Business Events, Qualmark and industry partnerships.

Angela Blair, General Manager International

Angela joined Tourism New Zealand in August 2022. Angela is a strategic marketing leader with over 20 years’ global experience across business-to-business and business-to-consumer marketing. 

Working for organisations such as Restaurant Brands, Vodafone and APN, where she developed creative marketing programmes with a commercial focus.

Prior to joining Tourism New Zealand, Angela was a member of Restaurants Brands New Zealand Executive team.

In her current role she is responsible for the delivery of marketing activity in offshore markets and aviation partnerships.

Brendan Downey-Parish, General Manager Insights, Performance & Technology

Brendan joined Tourism New Zealand in January 2016, and in 2022 was appointed to the role of General Manager Insights, Performance and Technology.

He has significant marketing and innovation expertise across the beverage, food, and consumer goods sectors in New Zealand and internationally, including seven years with Fonterra in the Middle East.

Brendan's currently responsible for insights, digital analytics, performance analytics, business planning, platform development and delivery.

Kathryn Cunningham, General Manager Marketing

Kathryn joined Tourism New Zealand in July 2023 and her responsibilities include global brand strategy, marketing content, trade, social and digital experience, marketing planning and global partnerships.

Kathryn comes from a background of brand strategy, identity and creative. She has worked as an agency partner across multiple Aotearoa New Zealand and global brands including Air New Zealand, EVT Group Rockit Global and Tiaki Care for New Zealand.

Natalie Haines, General Manager, People & Corporate Affairs

Natalie brings more than 16 years of people and culture experience to Tourism New Zealand, following senior HR roles at Oranga Tamariki and Contact Energy.

Responsible for leading our people, government relations and corporate communications functions, she has a strong background in organisational change, as well as capability and culture development.

Karl Burrows, General Manager – Pou Ārahi Māori 

Karl joined Tourism New Zealand in November 2022. Karl is a descendant of iwi of Taranaki and Whanganui. Karl founded and was the Managing Director of Haka Works, an international business sharing Māori knowledge on team culture and leadership, and Manaia, a London based kapa haka company. 

Prior to this, Karl worked as a lawyer in New Zealand and London.  The General Manager Pou Ārahi Māori role is responsible for leading Tourism New Zealand’s rautaki Māori and sustainability approach which includes guiding organisational cultural capability and confidence. 

Duane Trembath, Chief Financial Controller

Duane joined Tourism New Zealand in January 2023. Duane (Whakatōhea te iwi) is an experienced leader, having worked for TVNZ and marketing led international organisations such as Estée Lauder Companies and L’Oréal. 

The Chief Financial Officer role is responsible for ensuring best use of funds, financial stability and compliance.

Leah McDonald, Executive Assistant to Chief Executive

Leah joined Tourism New Zealand in 2008 and in 2012 was appointed to the role of Executive Assistant to the Chief Executive and Board Secretariat.

Before joining us, Leah lived in Florida, London and Sydney. She has supported senior executives across various sectors, including Australia’s leading medical defence organisation as well as the largest housing association in the United Kingdom.

If you're a New Zealand-based journalist with a media query, please contact:

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New Zealand Wins Again With Another Fantastic Hobbit Themed Travel Commercial

We were very impressed with Air New Zealand’s Middle-Earth inspired pre-flight safety briefing video , but this one takes it up a notch. Check it out for yourself, you just might see a few familiar faces or hear a familiar voice.

(via Kotaku )

Previously in The Hobbit

• Tauriel Refuses To Get Into Butt Pose In Hobbit Poster, Makes Legolas Do It Instead
• Stephen Fry’s Hobbit Character Finally Brings Bad Comb-Overs to Middle Earth
• One More New Hobbit Trailer For Desolation of Smaug ? Yes!

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Your ultimate guide to getting around New Zealand

Oct 22, 2023 • 5 min read

From hiring a camper to getting around in Auckland, here are top tips for travel in New Zealand © Justin Foulkes / Lonely Planet

New Zealand is a long, narrow and relatively sparsely populated country.

Outside the cities, there are vast expanses of rolling countryside, tall mountains and acres of almost impenetrable native bush. In some regions, it can be a long way to the next town.

As a result, most New Zealanders tend to travel by car. Many visitors to the country do the same, although there are also public transportation options available.

Whether you want to explore the cities or escape into nature, here are some of the best ways to get around New Zealand.

Driving is one of the best ways to see New Zealand

New Zealand's stunning scenery makes for remarkable road trips and traveling by car is convenient and flexible, especially for visiting attractions away from main arterial routes. Many of the best-known national parks are remote, so you'll need a car to explore them.

Driving around New Zealand is reasonably straightforward and traffic is relatively light outside of the major cities. People drive on the left-hand side of the road and visitors are usually allowed to drive on their home driver’s license for up to a year.

Keep in mind that car rentals aren’t always cheap and can be expensive for drivers under 25. If you’re traveling between the islands, double-check whether your rental is allowed on the Interislander or Bluebridge ferries across the Cook Strait. You’ll also need to book your vehicle on the ferry in advance.

In more remote areas, there can be long stretches between gas stations, so be sure to fill up your vehicle before leaving a town. Also, be aware that some roads are gravel or dirt, especially in rural areas, with windy and narrow stretches and tight mountain passes. One-way bridges are incredibly common, particularly on the South Island.

Distances are deceptive and being caught behind a slow-moving campervan on single-lane roads can add hours to your journey. It’s not unusual to encounter construction and “slips” (the Kiwi word for landslides) caused by weather events (such as 2023’s Cyclone Gabrielle) on your travels. Check Waka Kotahi’s journey planner before you hit the road.

If you’re driving through the South Island’s mountainous passes in winter, having snow chains on hand isn’t just advisable – it’s mandatory in some areas, including along the Milford Road. Road signs will advise if and when you’re required to put them on, so make sure you know how to properly fit your chains when needed. Car rental agencies offer chain rentals and can show you how to use them.

Travel by campervan for ultimate flexibility

Traveling by campervan or motorhome allows you to save money by eliminating or reducing accommodation costs, with campsites and holiday parks situated in some of the country’s most scenic spots.

However, if you plan on “freedom camping” (staying overnight in free designated parking areas), you’ll need a certified self-contained vehicle (meaning you can carry your water and waste).

It's important to remember that freedom camping doesn’t mean you can just park up and sleep anywhere. Bylaws are set by local councils, so check freedomcamping.org for advice on where to camp or download the CamperMate app .

Bus services connect New Zealand's cities and towns

Coach buses provide good links between cities and towns in New Zealand. These can be booked in advance and are reasonably affordable, however, local buses will usually need to be taken to rural locations or national parks .

Although regional options exist, InterCity is the only national bus company – you can expect onboard WiFi and sometimes toilets. InterCity also offers flexible passes, which include ferry passage on the Interislander ferry. Discounted bus tickets are often available in the off-season.

There are also hop-on, hop-off buses and shuttles that cater to tourists and backpackers, but these tend to be significantly more expensive.

Scenic train trips let you enjoy the landscape en route

Trains in New Zealand are generally focused on freight and local travel within cities, but there are a few scenic regional trains for tourists that are worth considering.

Great Journeys New Zealand operates three scenic routes with stops along the way: The Northern Explorer (from Auckland to Wellington), the Coastal Pacific (from Picton to Christchurch) and the TranzAlpine (from Christchurch to Greymouth through Arthur’s Pass).

Other tourist trains operate regionally, including those that depart from Dunedin’s historic railway station – but they’re usually meant for day trips rather than getting from A to B.

Domestic flights are the quickest way to travel between cities

While many visitors choose to travel on land in New Zealand, taking a plane will get you to other parts of the country in a shorter time frame, but with a significant impact on the environment.

Air New Zealand is the national airline and goes to 20 destinations nationwide. Keep in mind that domestic flights are prone to cancellations and delays, due to the country’s highly changeable weather, high winds, snow and fog.

Tip for taking domestic flights: Consider low-cost carrier Jetstar if you’re flying to Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin or Queenstown. Otherwise, check Grabaseat.co.nz for deals on Air New Zealand flights.

Accessible transportation in New Zealand

Most public transport in New Zealand is accessible to everyone. This includes buses and trains, which typically are equipped with ramps, handrails and low steps.

Many car rental companies offer accessible vehicles, but for specialist accessible rentals contact Disability Vehicle Rentals and Freedom Mobility . Mobility parking permits can also be arranged for international visitors. They take 10 working days to process, so it’s best to apply for one before you depart.

The New Zealand Transport Authority (NZTA) runs the Total Mobility Scheme , a resource for finding discounted accessible transportation in different regions of New Zealand, including public transport and taxis.

Transport passes

If you’re spending some time in one of New Zealand's major cities and plan to use public transport, it’s worth buying a prepaid transport card.

These give discounted fares that have a capped daily amount (for example, in Auckland you’ll never pay more than NZ$20 per day) and can be used across various transport services in a city.

Cards include Auckland’s AT HOP card, Wellington’s Snapper card and Christchurch’s Metrocard . If you’re visiting Otago, you can use the Bee card throughout the region, including Queenstown and Dunedin.

This article was first published Jul 1, 2021 and updated Oct 22, 2023.

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The Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary

With its snow-capped mountains, ancient glaciers, rolling verdant hills, incredibly friendly locals, and abundant world-class wine, New Zealand is as wonderful as you’ve heard. In fact, take what you’ve heard and times it by ten. Because New Zealand will simply blow your mind when you visit.

People think because it’s a small country, you can see it all in two weeks. Unfortunately, that’s not true. There’s a lot to do here. From the north island to the south island, you need a lot of time here to see the highlights. You could literally fill months with activities and still only scratch the surface. New Zealand may be small but it punches above its weight with things to do.

But what if you don’t have months? What do you do then? What route do you take? What island should you start with? Where do you go?

Or what if you do have a month to spend? Then what? Where do you begin planning your New Zealand itinerary?

Below are my suggested itineraries that can help you plan your New Zealand road trip for maximum efficiency. Whether you have two weeks, one month, or even longer, these itineraries will ensure that you see the highlights and get off the beaten path.

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary

New Zealand Itinerary Highlights

Choosing the right vehicle.

• Two-Week North Island Route
• Two-Week South Island Route
• One Month Itinerary
• Things to Remember

Note : Two weeks is the minimum recommended time for a New Zealand road trip. There’s so much to see and do here, yet you still don’t want to be rushed or spend all your time in the car. If you only have two weeks, focus on one island.  

• Hike the Franz Josef Glacier
• See the Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• Visit Hobbiton
• Experience a Maori Cultural Show
• Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
• Go skydiving or bungy jumping
• Explore Fiordland National Park

Want more info on these activities (and many others)? I cover them all below!  

• Travellers Autobarn
• Wicked Campers

Prices vary a lot. Your daily rate will change depending on where you pick up the vehicle, if you are dropping it off at a different place, how long you are renting it for, how far in advance you book, and when you book (in the high season, prices seem to double!).

If living out of a van for a few weeks doesn’t sound like your idea of a fun time, simply rent a normal car and book accommodation along the way. To book a car, check out Discover Cars , which searches rental agencies big and small to find the best deals.

If you plan to drive New Zealand, you can use this widget to get a free quote for your car rental:

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary: A Two-Week North Island Route

Days 1–2: auckland.

Spend some time hanging out on the Auckland Domain, go snorkelling on Goat Island , and if you love wine like I do, take a wine tour on Waiheke Island .

For a list of more things to do in Auckland, check out my guide to the city!

Where to Stay : The Albion – This historic accommodation began as a “pub hotel” in the 19th century. Today there’s still a nice old tavern in the hotel. The rooms are comfortable and the place is quiet.

Days 3-4: Bay of Islands

While you’re here you can visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds (one of the most important historical sites in the country), explore Cape Reinga (the northernmost point of New Zealand), and see wild dolphins on a boat tour .

For a list of more things to do in Bay of Islands, check out my complete guide!

Where to Stay : Haka Lodge – Located in Paihia, Haka Lodge has a lot of common spaces, a large kitchen, and great views over the harbor. Everything is super clean and the beds are comfortable. It’s a good place to meet people.

Day 5: Hobbiton

To see Hobbiton, you’ll have to take a tour that starts with a drive through the owner’s 505-hectare (1,250-acre) sheep farm, offering epic views over the Kaimai Range. From here, you can explore Bag End, wander around the hobbit holes, and visit the Green Dragon Inn. Tours start at 89 NZD.

Where to Stay : Cosy Country Stay B&B – This is a cute bed-and-breakfast located in Matamata just a few miles from Hobbiton. The hosts are fantastic, there’s complimentary breakfast, and the property is quiet and tranquil, with roaming cats and goats for added atmosphere.

Days 6–7: Rotorua

The Maori were the original inhabitants of New Zealand, having arrived from Polynesia between 1320 and 1350. This is the best area to learn about Maori history and culture . Don’t miss seeing a Maori cultural show while you’re here (the Te Pa Tu Maori Cultural Experience is the one I attended).

The region is also known for its geothermal activity, and the dynamic landscape makes for exciting nature walks, trips to smelly sulfuric geysers, and soaks in luxury spas with water from the hot springs.

Where to Stay : Rock Solid Backpackers – This is a centrally located hostel with an expansive array of facilities, including a cinema, a bar, a communal kitchen, and even a rock-climbing wall.

Day 8: Waitomo

You can walk, abseil, or float down an underground river to see them. A 45-minute rafting trip is the standard visit, but if you want to go abseiling (also known as rappelling) there’s a five-hour option too. Prices start at 55 NZD for a boat tour and 195 NZD for extended tours with abseiling.

For a complete list of things to do in Waitomo, check out my guide on the town.

Where to Stay : Juno Hall – Close to the glowworm caves, Juno Hall has a swimming pool and tennis court on-site. There’s a large kitchen as well as an outdoor grill for barbecuing.

Days 9-10: Taupo

It’s also one of the best places to go skydiving in New Zealand thanks to the views and clear skies (though I didn’t do this while I was there).

I loved the small-town feel of Taupo, sitting by the lake, and being able to do so many hikes. I could have stayed here for weeks.

For a list of more things to do in Taupo, check out my guide!

Where to Stay : Finlay Jack’s has a huge kitchen, a big common room, a spacious patio with BBQs, fun and welcoming staff, bike rentals, and a super friendly hostel dog. Everything in the hostel is updated, with new, modern pod-style beds so you can get a great night’s sleep. In short, everything a backpacker or budget traveler would want from a hostel.

Day 11: Tongariro Alpine Crossing

As you wind your way through Tongariro National Park, you’ll walk through volcanic terrain (including where Mordor in Lord of the Rings was filmed), past high peaks and sulfur lakes, and end the day in a dense forest. It’s easy in parts (the beginning and end) and steep in others (especially the portion after “Mount Doom”), so you’ll get a good mix of difficulty levels.

Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, a hat, toilet paper, and a sweater or jacket (the weather can change rapidly). Expect to pay around 50 NZD per person for a round-trip shuttle to and from the trail or 325 NZD for a full-day guided hike .

Where to Stay : National Park Alpine Lodge – Located in National Park Village (the best place to stay if doing the trek), this lodge features budget-friendly private rooms, a communal kitchen and common area (with a cozy fireplace for cold nights!), and a helpful staff.

Otherwise, you can stay in Taupo, which is where people usually base themselves when they do this trek.

Days 12–14: Wellington

For a list of more things to do in Wellington, check out my detailed guide to the city.

Where to Stay : The Marion – This boutique hostel is just blocks away from everything you’ll want to see. It’s cozy, with comfy beds and large bathrooms, and the staff really go out of their way to make you feel welcome. It’s a clean, social spot to relax and meet other travelers.

If you’ve only got two weeks and are ending your 14-day New Zealand itinerary in Wellington, you can fly out of the airport here to wherever you need to go next. If you have more time, you’ll take the car ferry (around 3.5 hours) to Picton on the South Island to continue your trip (in which case, follow the following two-week South Island itinerary, but in reverse).  

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary: A Two-Week South Island Route

If you choose the South Island for your two-week road trip, start in Queenstown. Even if your international flight lands in Auckland on the North Island, you can easily get a cheap flight to Queenstown. Queenstown also has direct flights to many major cities in Australia if your trip to New Zealand is part of a larger adventure in Oceania.

Days 1-3: Queenstown

Known as “the adventure capital of New Zealand” (it’s the launching pad for every sort of adventure activity you can think of), Queenstown lives up to the hype. Even though it has become hugely popular, I cannot express my love of Queenstown enough. I love sitting by the lake, watching the sunset with a bottle of wine, and hiking the nearby trails.

Explore nearby vineyards, enjoy the waters of Lake Wakatipu, or go bungy jumping, ziplining, rafting, or skydiving . There’s a lot to do here.

For a list of more things to do in Queenstown, check out my detailed city guide.

Where to Stay : Nomads Queenstown – Most rooms have balconies, the showers have excellent water pressure, and the pillows are thick. There are activities every night and a free dinner and quiz night on Sunday. Overall, this is a great place to stay.

Days 4-6: Fiordland

Milford Sound is an amazing fjord that’s best known for the towering Mitre Peak and its surrounding rainforest. You can walk the wooded trail along the sandy shore for perfect views of the peak, or take the Chasm Walk on the Cleddau River to get close to powerful waterfalls.

The fjord itself is home to seal and penguin colonies. You can often see pods of dolphins frolicking in the waters too. Explore by boat and check out the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory to see rare black coral and other underwater life. Southern Discoveries is the only company doing cruises that include the Underwater Observatory. Cruises start from 165 NZD .

While less well-known than Milford, Doubtful Sound is the deepest and second-largest fjord in the country. You can only get to Doubtful via boat. A wilderness cruise of Doubtful Sound costs 299 NZD.

Where to Stay : Milford Sound Lodge – This is quite literally the only place to stay within about 50 kilometers (31 miles). It’s not cheap, but the views are unmatched, the complimentary breakfast is delicious, and the contemporary rooms are cozy yet modern. Otherwise, if you have a car, you can stay in the closest town, Te Anau where you’ll find cheaper accommodation.

Days 7-8: Wanaka

For a list of more things to do in Wanaka, check out my detailed city guide.

Where to Stay : Mountain View Backpackers – This hostel has a huge outdoor space with a grill, space to lie in the sun, and a big table to congregate around (there were many enjoyable nights spent drinking wine outdoors).

Day 9: Franz Josef Glacier

Hiking the glaciers here is an unforgettable experience. Sadly, because they have receded and are melting quickly due to climate change, the caves and walks have been shut down. Now, the only way to trek on the glaciers is via heli-hike ( an epic half-day or full-day helicopter/hiking experience ). These are expensive (500 NZD), but the helicopter ride, trekking, and experience as a whole are worth the price in my opinion.

Conversely, you can just hike to the glacier face and take photos from a distance. There are tons of viewing points (and you’ll see photos of just how far the glaciers have receded over the years).

Where to Stay : Chateau Backpacker & Motels – Just a ten-minute drive from the glacier, this lodging offers free homemade soup every night, free breakfast (homemade waffles and pancakes!), two communal kitchens, and a hot tub.

Days 10–11: Abel Tasman National Park

The best way to see the park is by kayak, so you can explore the little coves and beaches that really make the area special. Full-day rentals start at around 110 NZD, or you can join a guided kayaking tour starting at 190 NZD. You can also take a scenic cruise around the park for 95 NZD.

Where to Stay : Marahau Beach Camp – Offers both dormitories and small private cottages, a communal kitchen, and a seasonal restaurant. There are also tent and campervan sites if you want to save money.

From here, pick your last stop: either drive onwards to Christchurch and end there or take the ferry over to Wellington (an adventure in and of itself!) and end there. Either way, you’ll be able to catch a cheap and quick flight back to Auckland for your international flight home.

If you’re heading to Christchurch, keep reading. If you’d like to visit Wellington, scroll back up and follow the tips in the North Island itinerary section.

Days 12-14: Christchurch

While there’s not a lot “to do” per se, the vibe here is really relaxed, and it’s worth not rushing through if you aren’t short on time. Be sure to ride the gondola , visit the Canterbury Museum, and tour Quake City (a unique and interactive museum that recounts personal stories from the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes).

For a list of more things to do in Christchurch, check out my city guide.

Where to Stay : Urbanz – This is an awesome hostel located in downtown Christchurch with friendly staff and a huge kitchen. There’s also a hostel bar, a pool table, fast Wi-Fi, laundry, movies, and comfy couches, as well as a parking lot.

If you need to get back to Queenstown, it’s a 6 hour drive from here. Alternatively, you can fly to Auckland. The flight is just over an hour and tickets can be found for as low as 65 NZD if you book in advance.  

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary: One Month

Again, these are just recommended itineraries — I encourage you to adapt as needed!  

Things to Remember When Road-Tripping New Zealand

To help you make the most of your road trip, please remember the following rules:

• Traffic flows on the left here (not the right, like in the US or Canada).
• You must always park your car in the direction that traffic is going (or risk a fine).
• There are plenty of pull-off points for taking photos — use them instead of stopping at a random spot along the side of the road, which can be quite dangerous given how tight the roads are here.
• Roads here are winding, so remember that it might take longer than you expect to cover a particular distance.
• As long as your current and valid driver’s license is in English, you don’t need an International Driver’s Permit.
• If you’re traveling by campervan, use the CamperMate app to find nearby campsites, gas stations, and dump stations.

New Zealand is an unforgettable country, loaded with epic landscapes, friendly Kiwis, and a rich culture. Due to its remote location, visiting is usually a once-in-a-lifetime trip for most travelers. Taking a road trip is the best way to make the most of your time here, tailoring your itinerary to your own preferences and New Zealand bucket list.

Book Your Trip to New Zealand: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

If you’re looking for specific places to stay, here is a complete list of my favorite hostels in New Zealand .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on New Zealand? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on New Zealand for even more planning tips!

Hi, I’m Nomadic Matt, the New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and Ten Years a Nomad, as well as the founder of this website! And I’m here to help you save money on your next trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Required travel documents.

GETTING ONBOARD WITH

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It’s your responsibility to ensure you have all the proper documentation to board the ship and enter each of the countries your cruise visits. We’ll require government-issued identification to board. And government authorities may require you to have a visa or meet other requirements.

Select your departure port below to find out exactly what you need. But be aware – government requirements may change.

Don't Get Caught Without The Right Travel Doc

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Popular homeports:, full list of all homeports:, travel document requirements for sailings from u.s. homeports (excluding honoulu, hawaii & seward, alaska).

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the U.S. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

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In order to sail, a guest must meet the requirements of ONE of the check boxes below.

All documents must be original – no photocopies. Your name must match across documents. What if I had a name change?

• U.S. Passport Book OR U.S. Passport Card
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• Passports must be valid at least 6 months after your cruise ends
• Read more about passport requirements.
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• Read more about birth certificate requirements.
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• Passports must be valid at least 6 months after your cruise ends.
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• Learn more about visa requirements.

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• Canadian Passport Book – Required if traveling to the U.S. by air
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In order to sail, a guest must meet the requirements below.

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• Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship

Additionally, visas or travel permits may be required to enter some countries. Please check requirements for your own nationality. Common visas are noted below.

• The United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.
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Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Australia. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for U.S. Citizens

• U.S. Passport Book AND Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
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• Read more about passport requirements

Additionally, visas or travel permits may be required to enter some countries. Please check requirements for your own nationality.

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Accepted Identification for U.K. Citizens

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* Sailings that originate and end in ports within Australia that do not include a visit to an overseas port outside of Australia. (Note that Queensland cruises that include Willis Island are considered domestic cruises) . If an itinerary leaves Australia, then guests must use a Passport.

• Passport Book AND Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
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Travel document requirements for sailings from Canadian homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Canada. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for U.S. Citizens & Permanent Residents

• U.S. Passport Book - If traveling to Canada by air
• U.S. Passport Card - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea
• U.S. Birth Certificate AND Valid Government Issued ID (State ID Card, Driver’s License OR Military ID) - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea
• Original U.S. State Certified Birth Certificate or a certified copy; or an original Consular Birth Abroad Certificate from the U.S. State Department.
• Permanent Resident Card (Alien Resident Card "ARC" OR Green Card) AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship - If traveling to Canada by air, ground/car or by sea
• Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after your cruise ends.
• Guests age 16 and older whose ARC has no photo must present a valid government issued photo ID.
• Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) that is not expired - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea

Accepted Identification for Canadian Citizens & Permanent Residents

• Canadian Permanent Resident Card AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship
• Guests age 14 and under may also present either:
• Canada may require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from European homeports (excluding Southampton, England; Haifa, Israel & Istanbul, Turkey)

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Europe. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Additionally, visas or travel permits will soon be required to enter European Union countries.

• Traveling to Europe
• Coming Soon - All visitors will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.
• Sailings that have a European Union Port of Call
• For Transatlantic sailings, the United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Accepted Identification for European Citizens

• Guests are responsible for any requirements a country may have.
• Royal Caribbean strongly recommends that all guests travel with a valid passport. Learn why a passport is best
• EU Government ID
• Cruise itinerary must call only on countries within the Schengen Region .
• EU Government ID must be valid at least 3 months after your cruise ends.
• A Multi-Entry Schengen Visa may be required
• Coming Soon - European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
• Some nationalities will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.
• A Schengen Visa may be required
• European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
• Coming Soon - Some nationalities will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Dubai

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Dubai. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.K. Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Central & South American homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Central and South America. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Australian citizens cruising to and from Buenos Aires, Argentina and Valparaiso, Chile require additional documentation.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Singapore

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Singapore. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.S. Passport Book AND Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC)
• All visitors are required to get an Singapore Arrival Card to travel to Singapore.

Accepted Identification for Singaporean Citizens

• Singaporean Passport Book
• Passport Book AND Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC)

Travel document requirements for sailings from Japanese homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Japan. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for Japanese Citizens

• Japanese Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Chinese homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from China. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for Chinese Citizens

• Chinese Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Istanbul, Turkey

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Istanbul, Turkey. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.S. Passport Book AND Turkish Visa
• All visitors are required to get a Turkish Visa to travel to Turkey.
• Passport Book AND Turkish Visa

Travel document requirements for sailings from Haifa, Israel

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Haifa, Israel. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• All visitors will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Seward, Alaska

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the Seward. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Canada may require a Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Southampton, England

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Southampton. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Additionally, visas or travel permits will soon be required to enter the U.K. and European Union countries.

• Entering the U.K.
• Coming Soon - All visitors will soon be required to get an U.K. Travel Authorization (ETA) to travel to the U.K.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Oahu (Honolulu), Hawaii

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the Honolulu. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).

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R&D for space: Who is actually funding it?

Over the past few years, some of the most notable achievements within the space sector have come from private companies, including “new space” players that have entered the market since 2000. Among other advances, these companies have enabled the first all-civilian mission to orbit , the ongoing development of potential successors to the International Space Station, and a decrease in launch costs. Their R&D pipelines remain strong, and they are now piloting more innovative use cases, such as on-orbit manufacturing and refueling.

These developments raise an important question that serves as the focus of this article: How has space R&D funding evolved as the commercial sector increased its involvement? We examined data for R&D spending to identify important trends, including how commercial-sector contributions to space-sector R&D have scaled and how they compare to government contributions.

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An evolving funding environment.

Although the US federal government remains the major source of funding for space R&D, the growth of commercial investment has been impressive. Investment in new space companies now accounts for an estimated $5 billion to $6 billion per year in space R&D funding—up from less than $1 billion only a decade ago (Exhibit 1). Some of these companies receive funding from investment firms (private equity or venture capital), while others are backed by their wealthy founders. Profits, if any, may be reinvested in further R&D.

Legacy or traditional aerospace and defense (A&D) companies largely rely on government R&D funding that comes in two forms: direct payments (customer-funded R&D) or recovery of a portion of their expenses for independent R&D (IRAD) through overhead rates. In consequence, the incremental contribution of such companies to total sector R&D is estimated at less than $1 billion per year. 1 When the space segment is not separately discussed in company filings, IRAD attributable to space is estimated by proxy, looking at the proportion of estimated space revenues to total revenues.

The growing role of commercial space companies

Over the past five years, commercial R&D spending within the space sector has risen by 22 percent annually—more than double the 10 percent increase for US government spending. But the situation is reversed for absolute funding, since US government R&D spending, at about $12 billion per year, still far outweighs the approximately $6 billion from commercial R&D. Overall, R&D spending in the space sector is increasing by about 13 percent annually.

Expectations versus reality: Commercial satellite constellations

The government’s contribution as a percentage of total R&D funding has been falling, despite absolute dollar increase. From 2010 through 2013, it accounted for about 90 percent of total R&D investment. That figure rapidly decreased from 2014 through 2017, when it hit 65 percent (Exhibit 2). Over the past few years, the percentage split for public- and private-sector funding has roughly stabilized, with government contributing about two-thirds of the total and commercial companies about one-third.

The president’s budget request for fiscal year 2022 gives increased priority to space initiatives, including R&D, testing, and evaluation. 2 “The Department of Defense issues the president’s fiscal year 2022 budget,” US Department of Defense, May 28, 2021, defense.gov. In tandem, commercial-sector space activity remains high among investors of all types.

Ryan Brukardt is a senior partner in McKinsey’s Miami office, Jesse Klempner is a partner in the Chicago office, and Brooke Stokes is an associate partner in the Southern California office.

The authors wish to thank Carlos Felix Dietrich, Sarah Georgin, and Henry Tourtillotte for their contributions to this article.

This article was edited by Eileen Hannigan, a senior editor at the Waltham, Massachusetts, office.

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New Zealand Country Commercial Guide

The Country Commercial Guide (CCG) is your trusted source about how to do business in an international market. Authored by seasoned trade experts at U.S. embassies and consulates, the guides provide insight into economic conditions, leading sectors, selling techniques, customs, regulations, standards, business travel, and more.   Country Commercial Guides  are available for 140+ markets.

6 Key Topics for Market Success

• Doing Business in New Zealand : Get an overview on market opportunities and entry strategies, key economic indicators and trade statistics, and other reasons U.S. companies should consider exporting to the country.
• Leading Sectors for Exports & Investments :  Learn about sector-based industry trends, industry market overviews, export-import trade data, and key trade events.  
• Customs, Regulations & Standards :  Check the latest on tariff and non-tariff barriers, export controls, import requirements and documentation, product standards, and trade agreements.
• Selling U.S. Products & Services :  Gain insight into the best market entry strategies using agents/distributors, other sales channels, pricing and methods of payment, financing, joint/ventures/licensing, and selling to the government.
• Business Travel :  Find information on visa, travel and vaccine requirements, and get insight into local business protocol such as dress, business cards and gifts.
• Investment Climate Statement:   Learn more about the country’s investment climate.

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Your Roads. Their Freedom.

Every year, millions of men, women, and children are held against their will and trafficked into forced labor and commercial sex. While on your roads, you could be the key to their freedom.

Access Campaign Resources

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) "Your Roads, Their Freedom" campaign seeks to raise awareness of human trafficking in the commercial motor vehicle (CMV) industry. This effort aims to educate and empower CMV drivers and other transportation-industry employees to recognize the signs of human trafficking and report the crime to authorities.

Human trafficking is a crime that involves the use of force , fraud , or coercion to obtain labor or a commercial sex act. All commercial sex involving a minor is legally considered human trafficking, regardless of the use of force, fraud, or coercion.

Learn the Signs

Don't overlook human trafficking victims on your roads - learn the signs to stay aware and prepared.

Want to know more about what FMCSA is doing to prevent human trafficking? Read about it here.

Still have questions? Learn more about human trafficking by reading others' frequently asked questions.

How Do I Report Human Trafficking?

Commercial motor vehicle professionals like you are on the front lines in the fight against human trafficking. You might be able to spot the signs of this crime during your time on the job, since human traffickers often use bus stations, truck stops, rest areas, and travel centers to recruit and move victims.

Be willing to take a second look, trust your instincts, and make the confidential call or text. Real-time reports help local authorities intervene quicker. Some people tend not to report over the fear of being wrong—that should never be considered.

If you see (or suspect) any indicators of human trafficking, assess the situation.  Do not attempt to confront a suspected trafficker or engage with a victim.  Instead, please contact local law enforcement directly. Report to:

• 9-1-1, if someone is in immediate danger .
• Call 888-373-7888 or text HELP or INFO to BeFree (233733). (Texto 233733 o BEFREE)
• This hotline is a national, toll-free hotline available to answer calls from anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. The hotline is operated by a nongovernmental organization funded by the federal government; it is not a law enforcement or immigration authority.
• Follow your company’s reporting policy if they have one in place.

When describing the suspected human trafficking situation, describe specifically what you observed, including:

• Who  or  what  you saw (physical identifiers, nicknames overheard).
• When  you saw it (date and time).
• Where  it occurred (where you noticed the suspicious activity and any movement, if applicable).

Get Involved

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Learn more from FMCSA Administrator Robin Hutcheson about actions you can take to help combat this crime during National Human Trafficking Prevention Month and throughout the year.

Watch the Video

Additional Resources

Learn about laws and FMCSA rules developed to raise awareness and prevent human trafficking crimes.

Learn more about efforts Department-wide to combat this heinous crime.

Learn about the DOT initiative comprised of transportation and travel industry stakeholders working jointly to maximize their collective impact in combating human trafficking. 

Learn about the Department's annual $50,000 award aiming to incentivize individuals and entities to think creatively in developing innovative solutions to combat human trafficking in the transportation industry.