Money & Payment
The currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), colloquially known as the "Kiwi Dollar." As of 2026: 1 € ≈ 1.78 NZD. New Zealand is an almost cashless country — contactless payment (Paywave/Paypass) is standard everywhere, even at campsites, farmers' markets, and the most remote cafés.
Tips
- Credit Card: Visa and Mastercard are universally accepted. A travel credit card without foreign transaction fees (DKB, Vivid, Revolut, Wise) saves 1.5–2% fees. American Express is less commonly accepted.
- EFTPOS: New Zealand's ubiquitous payment system. Works with most European debit cards (Maestro has been discontinued, V-Pay does NOT work). When in doubt: credit card.
- Cash: For DOC campsites (some have an envelope system: money in the envelope, envelope in the box), small farm stands (honey, avocados, eggs — trust-based with a cash box), and some markets. ATMs in all cities, but RARE in remote areas (no ATMs between Te Anau and Milford Sound, between Fox Glacier and Haast, etc.).
- Tipping: Not customary and not expected — this is surprising for many Europeans. In upscale restaurants, you can tip 5–10% if the service was outstanding — but no one expects it, and waitstaff will not be offended if you don't. No tips for taxi drivers, bartenders, or hotel staff.
What costs what? (Estimates 2025/26)
| Item | NZD | Approx. EUR |
|---|---|---|
| Flat White | 5.50–7 | 3–4 |
| Meat Pie (Bakery) | 5–8 | 3–4.50 |
| Fish & Chips | 12–22 | 7–12 |
| Main Course in Restaurant | 25–45 | 14–25 |
| Craft Beer (Pint) | 10–14 | 5.50–8 |
| Supermarket Shopping (1 person, 1 week) | 80–130 | 45–73 |
| Petrol (per liter) | 2.80–3.20 | 1.57–1.80 |
| Hostel (Dorm) | 30–50/night | 17–28 |
| DOC Campsite | 8–15/night | 4.50–8.50 |
| Campervan Rental | 50–180/day | 28–101 |
| Bungy Jump Queenstown | 205–275 | 115–155 |
| Whale Watch Kaikōura | 150 | 84 |
