want to go to new zealand how do i.........

[sabrinah]

i want to go to new zealand in april and i was woundering how expensive things were like hotels and transportation.
also the different types of food. when would be the best time to go?

[jgsampso]

I just got back from a two week stay on the South Island. If you're coming from the U.S. or the U.K where the dollar or pound is relatively strong, then prices aren't too bad. We stayed in mostly 2 star hotels when we weren't backpacking, which were all clean hotels with pretty standard ammenities. Prices ranged from $45 to $80 U.S. There are a lot of hostels and backpackers that you can find a lot cheaper accomodation.

Eating out wasn't too bad either. A good dinner meal, with one or two drinks, was on average about $35-$40 U.S.

Your biggest cost will probably be getting there and back.

As far as food goes it pretty much runs the gamut. In the more touristy towns (Queenstown, etc), you can find Asian, Indian, French, Irish pubs etc. The local faire was definitely more meat and potatoes (lamb, lamb, lamb, and beef, did I mention lamb?).

I gathered that now through February or March is the best time to visit with regard to weather, but also the most expensive. Pickup a lonely planet or other travel book, and there is a wealth of information in those, as well as sites like these.


Jason

[johnynz]

I'm not sure where jgsampso was eating but his prices seemed a little high. NZ$20-NZ$30 will get you a really good meal with drinks. If you eat in pubs and hotels you can expect lamb on the menu, but generally NZ quisine is far more diverse nowadays. Seafood is great and readily availiable, as is a wide range of ethnic foods. Sure, in more out of the way spots your choice may be more limited, but generally NZ fare is top class. As far as accomodation goes, a backpackers will cost as little as NZ$20 per night.
April is an excellent time to visit NZ. Autumn is beautiful in NZ, particually around central Otago. Whilst you can never guarentee what the weather will be doing. Early to mid April is generally quite settled. Make sure you have warm clothing, an April day can experience all four seasons.
Domestic air travel in NZ is quite expensive although bargains can be found. Bus routes are everywhere and reasonably priced. If you are travelling with one or two others then I would suggest hiring a car.
Enjoy.