Travel Vaccines and Advice for New Zealand
New Zealand was one of the last major landmasses settled. It has a rich diversity in not only landscape but plants and animals as well. You can find beaches, mountains, dense forests, and lots of outdoor activities.
Consisting of 2 main islands, with volcanoes and glaciers as main features. The North Island has the capital, Wellington, and most of the population of New Zealand live on the island. The South Island contains a majority of the country’s famous landscapes with many National Parks and protected land.
New Zealand has a rich culture, blending Maori and British traditions. There’s a wide range of attractions and activities all throughout the country. Stop by the well-known Auckland Museum for Maori culture and history, try making it to the top of the Sky Tower, or do a tasting at one of over 70 wineries in New Zealand. The country has a little something for everyone.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for New Zealand?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in New Zealand
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for New Zealand?
What Is the Climate Like in New Zealand?
How Safe Is New Zealand?
Visit Queenstown
What Should I Take to New Zealand?
U.S. Consulate in New Zealand
Do I Need Vaccines for New Zealand?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for New Zealand. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for New Zealand: hepatitis A, polio, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for New Zealand |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for New Zealand |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Hepatitis A – Be sure to protect yourself from hepatitis A, a contagious liver infection caused by HAV, through vaccination. The virus spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Along with vaccination, maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding undercooked shellfish are essential for prevention.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection spread through bodily fluids, poses a significant health risk. Safe practices help, but vaccination is the ultimate safeguard. It prompts the immune system to produce antibodies, ensuring strong and persistent protection.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) are viral infections with distinct symptoms. They spread through respiratory droplets and close contact. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent MMR infections, with the MMR vaccine offering protection against all three diseases.
The food and water standards are similar for the U.S. and New Zealand. Most travelers don’t need to take special precautions while traveling in New Zealand in regards to food and water habits.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in New Zealand
Prevent Bug Bites in New Zealand
Prevent bug bites by covering up and using insect repellents with DEET or picaridin. If bitten, wash the bite, resist scratching, and soothe with hydrocortisone or antihistamines. Seek urgent care for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in New Zealand
Safeguard your health while abroad by consuming cooked and hot foods, opting for bottled or sealed drinks, and practicing proper hand-washing. Limit your exposure to risky local dishes. To prevent travelers’ diarrhea, maintain these precautions: eat carefully prepared foods, avoid untreated water, sanitize your hands, consider probiotics, and exercise caution with unfamiliar cuisine.
Altitude Sickness in New Zealand
Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), is caused by insufficient oxygen at high elevations. Symptoms include headaches and nausea. To avoid AMS, ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and consider medications like acetazolamide. If AMS strikes, descend to lower altitudes promptly, rest, and seek medical help if symptoms persist.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for New Zealand?
A visa is required for U.S. citizens visiting New Zealand. This can be obtained before arrival via New Zealand’s NZeTA program. Processing can take up to 72 hours from the time of application. NZeTA is usually valid for multiple visits for up to two years.
New Zealand Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to New Zealand? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of New Zealand and U.S. State Department
Passport Health has partnered with industry leaders in travel document services, RushMyPassport and G3 Travel Services. These teams will walk you through the New Zealand visa process step-by-step and handle the sometimes difficult communication with embassies and consulates. Start your visa process today!
What Is the Climate Like in New Zealand?
New Zealand has mild temperatures with high rainfall. With the climate dominated by the sea and the mountains, it depends on where you are in New Zealand for the climate. Here are a few major cities and what you can expect weather wise while traveling:
- Auckland – The most populous city in New Zealand has warm humid summers and mild winters. It’s located on and around an isthmus while also straddling the Auckland volcanic field. Because of its location, it has an oceanic and humid subtropical climate. Year round temperatures are in the 50-60 degree range with the coldest reaching low 40’s and the highest the mid-80’s. There can be high levels of rainfall year-round, but there is rarely ever snow in Auckland.
- Wellington – Located in the south-western tip of the North Island, the capital of New Zealand is known as “Windy Wellington.” It offers a mild, temperate marine climate with the occasional frost during the winter season. From October to April the city has temperatures in the 70’s with lots of sunshine. You can expect rainfall throughout the year with June and July being the wettest months.
- Blenheim – In the north-east of the South Island, Blenheim is a sunny city in the Marlborough region. Due to a rain shadow effect from the mountain ranges to the west, the climate of the city is mild. You can expect warm summers with temperatures averaging in the 60’s and cool winters with some frost and temperatures in the low 30’s. There is rarely snow and the mountain ranges shelter the city from the heavy rains coming in from the west.
How Safe Is New Zealand?
New Zealand is generally safe for travelers, but it’s always important to take precautions.
When you’re in New Zealand, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. Keep your valuables safe and use a trustworthy taxi service. Follow road safety rules, wear your seatbelt, and obey speed limits.
Be respectful of the environment and follow any rules for visiting protected areas. Stay informed about any potential risks or hazards, and be prepared for emergencies with important phone numbers and travel insurance information.
Visit Queenstown
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travelers’ diarrhea kit!
Queenstown is a popular tourist destination in New Zealand. It is famous for its stunning natural scenery and exciting adventure activities. Visitors can go bungee jumping, skydiving, paragliding, jet boating, white-water rafting, skiing, and snowboarding. There are also many scenic walking and hiking trails, such as the Queenstown Hill Walk and the Routeburn Track, as well as scenic drives to places like Glenorchy.
Visitors can take wine tours and tastings to experience the local wine culture. One of the most popular tourist attractions is Milford Sound, which is a fjord with waterfalls, mountains, and forests. Queenstown is a great place to visit for both adventure and relaxation, with something to offer everyone.
What Should I Take to New Zealand?
Depending on your travel plans, you may need to consider packing some of these essential items in your suitcase for your trip to New Zealand. Don’t forget to pack:
- Sunscreen – New Zealand is a very sunny country, so be sure to pack some type of sunscreen to protect your skin. Try getting a sports- or water-specific sunscreen. Even if you don’t think you’ll be outside for a lot of your trip, wear sunscreen for those times you are out in the sun. Nothing is worse than getting sunburned your first day of vacation.
- Umbrella/Raincoat – Most of New Zealand has heavy rainfall throughout the year. Unlike some countries there isn’t a wet season and a dry season. Be prepared for anything with a small umbrella or a raincoat you can pack in your day bag in case you need it. Don’t ruin your day by being soaking wet, be prepared and stay dry.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes – Whether you’re walking through a museum, sightseeing in the city, or doing some glacial hiking, it’s important to have comfortable shoes. Avoid blisters and aches by packing some comfortable shoes in your suitcase.
U.S. Consulate in New Zealand
All Americans visiting New Zealand should register online with the U.S. Department of State before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.
Once in New Zealand, the information for the U.S. consulate is:
U.S. Consulate General Auckland
Citigroup Centre, 3rd Floor,
23 Customs Street East
Auckland, New Zealand
Telephone: +(64)(9) 303-2724
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: (64)(9) 303-2724 ext. 2900
Fax: +(64)(9) 366-0870
Email: aucklandacs@state.gov
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for New Zealand
Overall rating: 5 stars – 8 reviews
★★★★★
“Great individualized service“
“We were provided Professional and courteous service. She was so kind to give us detailed and personal experiences of living in New Zealand. Plus, we felt comfortable with her health and wellness recommendations.”
Submitted by: Rachel
★★★★★
“Excellent, Professional and Thorough“
“Very knowledgeable nurse covered all the necessary information for our trip to New Zealand. Explained the difference in types of medications/vaccinations offered and gave recommendations on economic sources of insect repellent as well as travel tips to make our mission as comfortable as possible. Great experience. Current information regarding political and medical status in our destination country also provided.”
Submitted by: Carol
★★★★★
“Great Experience Overall“
“This process was made very easy and enjoying thanks to our nurse. She did a fantastic job explaining all that I could expect during my trip to New Zealand. She was thorough in her explanations and very patient with all my questions. It was obvious she was well prepared and knowledgeable to assist and explain the international travel process to me. She made a difficult and often complex process very informative and enjoyable. Many thanks!”
Submitted by: James
★★★★★
“Specific Advice“
“Catherine was great! I’ve never been to New Zealand before and had no idea what to be concerned about, but she was very kind and patient with me while still giving me all the important details.”
Submitted by: Gina
★★★★★
“Health Concerns for New Zealand Trip“
“The nurse answered all of my questions and concerns. We selected the appropriate vaccinations and prophylaxis medications. I’m now good to go on my trip to South Africa. I will definitely recommend Passport Health to my friends and fellow travelers.”
Submitted by: Brad
★★★★★
“Great Experience!!“
“I highly recommend Passport Health!! The nurse was very knowledgeable and helpful, as well as extremely caring !! She made everything so easy, & gave us all of the information & supplies, etc. needed for my daughter’s trip to New Zealand. What a blessing!!”
Submitted by: Kim
★★★★★
“Preparing for Very Long Cruise“
“We are planning a 108-day cruise which will take us to over 20 countries, as diverse as South Africa, Peru, Ecuador, Madagascar, Brazil, New Zealand, throughout the South Pacific, etc. The people at Passport Health had to juggle health issues in all of these locations to determine our needs. We have used them for other exotic trips over the past 5 years, so they have our extensive records and were able to tell exactly what we needed. The nurse was prepared for us the second we got in with our documentation and vaccination recommendations, and she gave even seasoned travelers like us some excellent tips. We wouldn’t go anywhere else.”
Submitted by: Karen
★★★★★
“Helpful and Efficient“
“Our time frame was very short as we had not got our immunizations before we left for New Zealand. Passport Health was able to assist us with this immediately and gave a very thorough review of what was essential for travel.”
Submitted by: Barbara
“We were provided Professional and courteous service. She was so kind to give us detailed and personal experiences of living in New Zealand. Plus, we felt comfortable with her health and wellness recommendations.”
“Very knowledgeable nurse covered all the necessary information for our trip to New Zealand. Explained the difference in types of medications/vaccinations offered and gave recommendations on economic sources of insect repellent as well as travel tips to make our mission as comfortable as possible. Great experience. Current information regarding political and medical status in our destination country also provided.”
“This process was made very easy and enjoying thanks to our nurse. She did a fantastic job explaining all that I could expect during my trip to New Zealand. She was thorough in her explanations and very patient with all my questions. It was obvious she was well prepared and knowledgeable to assist and explain the international travel process to me. She made a difficult and often complex process very informative and enjoyable. Many thanks!”
“Catherine was great! I’ve never been to New Zealand before and had no idea what to be concerned about, but she was very kind and patient with me while still giving me all the important details.”
“The nurse answered all of my questions and concerns. We selected the appropriate vaccinations and prophylaxis medications. I’m now good to go on my trip to South Africa. I will definitely recommend Passport Health to my friends and fellow travelers.”
“I highly recommend Passport Health!! The nurse was very knowledgeable and helpful, as well as extremely caring !! She made everything so easy, & gave us all of the information & supplies, etc. needed for my daughter’s trip to New Zealand. What a blessing!!”
“We are planning a 108-day cruise which will take us to over 20 countries, as diverse as South Africa, Peru, Ecuador, Madagascar, Brazil, New Zealand, throughout the South Pacific, etc. The people at Passport Health had to juggle health issues in all of these locations to determine our needs. We have used them for other exotic trips over the past 5 years, so they have our extensive records and were able to tell exactly what we needed. The nurse was prepared for us the second we got in with our documentation and vaccination recommendations, and she gave even seasoned travelers like us some excellent tips. We wouldn’t go anywhere else.”
“Our time frame was very short as we had not got our immunizations before we left for New Zealand. Passport Health was able to assist us with this immediately and gave a very thorough review of what was essential for travel.”
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