Located on the other side of the world from Western Europe, New Zealand is famous for its spectacular plants and animals, its breathtaking landscape and its wide range of open-air activities, especially hiking. The country has a varied range of hiking trails, and all kinds of walkers will find something to make them happy. Make sure that you have the right kit for whatever you're planning. In addition, the country is ideally suited to observing the local wildlife, some of which can be found wherever you go! It is therefore worthwhile to work out what you need to observe the wildlife - if nothing else, a camera with a good zoom!
As New Zealand is located beneath the hole in the ozone layer, the sun can be extremely intense! You will quickly notice that, once the sun comes out, you can feel its effects very quickly. As I wasn't used to it, I spent the first few days with no sun cream, no hat, and no sunglasses, which gave me strong migraines. It's therefore essential that you pack sun cream with a high factor, and if you are sensitive to the sun, you must protect your head as well.
As far as daily hygiene products are concerned, you don't need to worry too much, as you can find all that you need once you arrive in the country. On the other hand, anti-mosquito products are easy to find but are often more expensive.
New Zealand is a country with a climate that is highly changeable, and therefore unpredictable. It can start raining violently and two minutes later, you're faced with a completely clear sky again. As such, it's always worth having the essentials with you.
Don't forget...
- A camera to record your Antipodean vacation for posterity!
- An anti-sand fly spray to enjoy your stay while escaping from these little parasites' incessant attacks!
- A pair of binoculars to observe animals, especially penguins, which can only be admired from a distance.
- An adapter to make sure your battery isn't flat after two days' traveling.
- If you're traveling during winter, make sure you pack warm, merino-style clothes.
- A raincoat, because showers are not uncommon.
- A fleece jacket, because the nights are cold, even in summer.
- A first aid kit with dressing in case of blisters.
- Comfortable hiking socks so that you don't finish your first hike with blisters everywhere.
- Walking shoes or boots - absolutely essential
- A hat to protect you from the effects of exposure to the sun.
- Sunglasses - don't forget the power of the sun!
- A small hiker's backpack for walks during the day.
- Sun cream with a high protection factor!
