Take Advantage of the Exchange Rate in New Zealand

By Cheryl Branche

Budget is the buzzword in New Zealand, where the U.S. dollar is worth two NZ dollars. Example: The YMCA offers a 2-bedroom apartment with TV, phone, and bath for under NZ$110. A single room is only NZ$37 per night.

Budget Backpackers Hostels, www.backpack.co.nz, publishes the very complete and accurate Backpacker Accommodation Guide listing over 265 highly rated independent hostels: YHA New Zealand, www.yha.org.nz, also puts out a hostel accommodations guide.

Public transportation, available between most cities, is also inexpensive. From Christchurch through Arthur’s pass, with stops along the way to Greymouth on the West Coast, the Tranz Alpine Express fare is NZ$55 and takes you past some of the most splendid views of the Southern Alps. Travel up and down the east coast is even less expensive. From Christchurch to Dunedin costs NZ$35 one way, and from Christchurch to Queenstown NZ$40.

The cheapest way to eat is to cook your own meals. Most hotels have cooking facilities and grocery stores are nearby. If you must eat out, ask locals to recommend good, inexpensive restaurants.

The least expensive activities are the walking track and self-guided tours (walking track guides are available at the visitor information centers). The glow worm caves on the West Coast are fascinating, but visit them with a local, instead of a guided tour.

With a good map and a good sense of direction, the great outdoors are yours. Hire a car if you are traveling with more than two other people.

CHERYL BRANCHE is a retired American physician who lives in Christchurch, New Zealand.