New Zealand's entry costs,
before you fly
Allow 72 hours, know whether the levy applies to you, then head for the lakes.
This guide is for travelers planning New Zealand's summer. Most visa-waiver visitors need an NZeTA, from NZD 17, and Immigration New Zealand says to allow 72 hours for it. Many visitors also pay the International Visitor Levy of NZD 100, charged when you request the NZeTA, for a usual minimum of NZD 117 per person where both apply. Australian passport holders do not pay the levy. Below: the rules, then five-star stays in Queenstown and Auckland with live rates.
How much does the NZeTA cost?
Immigration New Zealand lists the NZeTA from NZD 17, and says that using the NZeTA app is cheaper than the website. The app also lets you request an NZeTA for up to 10 people at once. The International Visitor Levy, below, is on top where it applies.
What is the NZD 100 International Visitor Levy, and who pays?
Immigration New Zealand says the levy of NZD 100 is charged for most NZeTAs and most visitor visas, among others. You pay it when you request the NZeTA or apply for your visa, every time you do so, and it is not refunded, even if the application is declined.
You do not pay it if you:
- travel on an Australian or New Zealand passport, or a passport from many Pacific Island nations
- are a transit passenger arriving at and leaving from Auckland International Airport
- have a New Zealand resident visa or hold an Australian Resident Visa
- hold a Business Visitor Visa or APEC business travel card
Some other visa holders are also exempt, and the department's fee tool confirms what applies to you.
How long is the NZeTA valid, and how long can I stay?
An NZeTA is valid for 2 years for travelers and can be reused. Each visit can last up to 3 months, or 6 months for UK citizens. You can spend no more than 6 months in New Zealand in any 12-month period.
When should I request it?
Immigration New Zealand says to allow 72 hours, and that it can take longer if further checks are needed. Do it before you travel, ideally when you book.
Do children need one? And what about cruises?
Each person must meet the NZeTA requirements. That includes a child endorsed on a parent's passport, who must still have an NZeTA. Cruise ship passengers are among those who use an NZeTA to visit. Transit is limited to 24 hours and to Auckland International Airport, the only airport in New Zealand with a transit area. If you pass through another airport, answer that you are visiting when you request it.
Queenstown or Auckland for a luxury stay?
Queenstown is the summer base for lake views, vineyards and day trips into the mountains, and rooms are limited, so book it first. Auckland works well as a first or last stop near the international airport, with harbour dining and easy island ferries. New Zealand's top lodges and hotels are small in number, which is why this list is shorter than our big-city guides.
Where this information comes from
We checked these official pages on November 9, 2026. Rules can change, so please confirm before you travel:
- Immigration New Zealand — New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)
- Immigration New Zealand — Paying the International Visitor Levy
🏨 Five-star stays in Queenstown & Auckland (live Agoda rates) (10)
Five-star only, ranked by nightly price. Live Agoda rates for 2 adults, taxes and fees included, checked 2026-11-10 — confirm the live rate on Agoda.
🏔️ Where to stay
🍷 Worth planning around
❓ Frequently asked questions
How much is an NZeTA?
Immigration New Zealand lists it from NZD 17, and says the app is cheaper than the website.
Do I have to pay the NZD 100 levy?
Most NZeTA requests include it. It doesn't apply to travelers on Australian or New Zealand passports, many Pacific Island passports, or transit passengers arriving at and leaving from Auckland International Airport, among others.
Is the levy refunded if my NZeTA is declined?
No. Immigration New Zealand says it does not refund the levy, even if the application is declined.
How long does an NZeTA take?
Immigration New Zealand says to allow 72 hours, and it may take longer if further checks are needed.
How long is an NZeTA valid?
Two years for travelers, with visits of up to 3 months, or 6 months for UK citizens.
Some links are Agoda affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Hotel rates were checked on Agoda and change often. Entry details are summarized from Immigration New Zealand's official pages as of November 9, 2026 — please confirm before you travel.