scotland travel from nz

50 Scotland Travel Tips For Travel In 2024

Categories Planning a trip to Scotland , Scotland , Scotland Guides

One of the things I love about travelling to another country is discovering the different ways they do things. Scotland is no exception, and after living here for almost six years, there are still things that surprise me when travelling this bonnie country. In this guide, I’m sharing 50 Scotland travel tips that will save you time, money, stress, and embarrassment- and help you have the best trip ever.

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Scotland is an old country with a plethora of history – this is one of the very reasons it attracts travellers from countries like New Zealand, Australia, the USA, and Canada, who live in relatively younger countries. As a Kiwi myself, I was drawn to Scotland because there were many things I couldn’t experience in New Zealand, such as castles built in the Middle Ages, Roman forts and ancient battlegrounds, and narrow country lanes that lead to tiny cottages built from horse hair and stone.

In my Facebook group, Scotland Travel Tips , many of the same questions about planning a trip to Scotland are asked. This inspired me to answer all of these questions, and offer other advice I think will be helpful to you when travelling to Scotland.

If you find this blog post helpful – make sure you share it!

This is the seventh article in my Planning A Trip to Scotland series . To read the first article in the series, click here . To receive all the articles in this series by email, you can sign up here .

My name is Yvette Webster – I chased my ancestry to Scotland, ended up meeting a Scot and falling in love, and now I live here with my husband, our son, and our dog, Angus. I’m a full-time Travel Writer, and I travel Scotland for a living, writing helpful guides and helping people plan their trips to Scotland via my blog and travel consultation service .

My favourite type of travel in Scotland is discovering the hidden gems and visiting the more off-beat places. In 2018, I was the first solo female to thru-hike the Scottish National Trail , an 874-kilometer / 536-mile hike that runs the length of Scotland. I got to know Scotland on such an intimate level and visited many places that tourists and locals never see – and I love encouraging people to get off the beaten path and explore the lesser-known places!

I have a degree in journalism and used to work as a travel agent. I combined my two passions and created my blog, Wayfaring Kiwi . I also run the popular Facebook group Scotland Travel Tips .

Need help planning your dream trip to Scotland? Sign up to our Planning A Trip To Scotland course which will walk you through planning your itinerary and booking your trip step by step!

50 Scotland Travel Tips You Need To Know

Planning your trip.

The Machrie Moor Standing Stones

1. If you are in the stages of planning a trip to Scotland, be sure to read my blog post on planning a trip to Scotland . It gives you a great introduction to planning your trip, including things to do, car hire, using public transport, how to book accommodation and activities, and more!

Read it once you’ve finished this article.

2. Be sure to include at least ONE hidden gem in your itinerary. Some of my suggestions include South-West Scotland , the Scottish Borders , the Cowal Peninsula, an island that isn’t the Isle of Skye, the Moray coast , and Aberdeenshire .

The Peebles Cross Kirk in the Scottish Borders

3. Slow down! One of the most common mistakes people make when visiting Scotland is that they try to attempt too much in their itineraries.

Choose 2-3 main activities per day, and have backup activities in mind in case you have some extra time. Scotland is a country to be experienced at a slow pace – and remember, you can always come back someday to check everything off your bucket list!

4. Tipping isn’t compulsory in Scotland, however, it is common practice. Wait staff are paid much better wages than you’d get in the USA and Canada , hence why tipping isn’t expected, however, I always leave a 10% tip or round the bill up to the nearest 5 or 0.

I also tip taxi drivers and Uber Eats/Just Eat drivers £1. You don’t need to tip every time you get a drink in a pub, just leave a tip of a few pounds when you leave.

5. Are you wondering when is the best time to visit Scotland? This varies from person to person, however, I personally love travelling around Scotland in April and May . It’s spring and Scotland is colourful, there are fewer crowds, there aren’t many midges around, and accommodation isn’t as expensive as it is during the summer months. The daylight hours are also better balanced.

I’ve written an in-depth blog post about the pros and cons of visiting Scotland each month , which will help you decide when is the best time to visit for you.

Edinburgh in spring

6. Terrified of the Highland midge? You really don’t need to be! But it’s a good idea to be prepared.

• Midges start appearing in late June and die out with the colder weather (usually around the end of September ).
• They hang around bodies of water, and usually appear in the morning and early evening when it’s cooler. If there is a slight breeze, this will blow the midges away so they won’t bother you.
• Only the females bite, and you’ll notice itchy bumps on your skin (similar to mosquito bites) if you’ve been bitten.
• You’re most likely to encounter midges if you are hiking or walking near rivers or lochs.
• You won’t generally encounter them in the cities, unless you’re near a river or canal.
• I recommend buying a few cans of Smidge to keep the midges at bay if you think you might encounter them on your travels. You can buy this in most grocery stores and outdoor shops.

My husband, the Haggis, wrote a great guide on how to avoid midges .

The Grassmarket in Edinburgh

7. Scotland has a large tick population, and to be honest, ticks worry me more than midges! Ticks can cause Lyme disease, but don’t panic because less than 10% of these beasties actually carry the disease. It’s still important to take steps to avoid a tick bite, however.

• You’ll encounter ticks in many parts of Scotland from March to October .
• They cannot jump, but will attach themselves to your clothing if you are walking through long grass. They will climb up your body until they find a warm, damp spot (for example, an armpit or belly button) and burrow into your skin for dinner!
• Smidge will also repel ticks – be sure to reapply it every couple of hours.
• Be sure to do a tick check when you get home if you’ve been in an area known to be rife with ticks, or you’ve been hiking.
• Some good news – I’ve been bitten by ticks many times while hiking in Scotland and I’ve been fine. Don’t let the fear of ticks stop you from hiking! Just use a good bug spray, and wear long pants when hiking in Scotland.

8. The Isle is Skye is a lovely island but it suffers from over-tourism. Personally, I wouldn’t visit Skye during the busy summer months. My favourite time to visit Skye is in April or November when it’s quieter. If you’re visiting during the summer, I recommend pre-booking your accommodation, restaurants, tours and activities that require a booking as soon as you know what dates you’ll be there . All of these things, especially accommodation, get booked up months in advance.

As a general guide, book your accommodation and tours 8-12 months in advance, and make restaurant reservations 1-3 months in advance. Not all restaurants will take bookings three months in advance- but some of the popular ones do. It’s better to be over-prepared when planning a trip to Skye so you don’t miss out!

9. Many people think that in Scotland we still live in the dark ages, due to its long history and the pretty medieval-looking photos that marketing and tour companies love to share. Scotland is an advanced country, and we have everything that most Western countries have – including pharmacies where you can purchase most medicines that don’t require a prescription. Don’t worry, you’re not travelling back in time when you visit Scotland, even if the buildings do look old!

Exploring the Christmas Markets in Glasgow

10. If you want to use your phone in Scotland, first, check with the phone provider you’re with to see what they can offer you.

If your phone is unlocked, you can purchase a sim card when you arrive in Scotland. The main sim cards you can purchase in Scotland are Vodafone , Three , and EE . You can purchase these from a phone store (such as Carphone Warehouse ), a grocery store, corner shops – many places around Scotland.

For around £20, you can purchase a sim card on a 1-month plan that will give you around 4GB of data and unlimited texts and calls in the UK. If you’d like to keep in contact with your family back home, I recommend using the apps WhatsApp or Telegram to make texts and calls – these apps are free to use and all you need is data or a Wi-Fi connection!

If you purchase your sim card in England or Wales, it WILL work in Scotland, and vice versa.

Stirling Old Bridge and the Wallace Monument

11. If you are a tourist visiting Scotland on holiday and you require medical treatment, you will most likely have to pay for it. This is why I ALWAYS recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip.

Residents in Scotland receive most medical treatment for free, because the National Health System (NHS) is funded by the taxes we pay.

So how much medical cover should you get through your travel insurance? Usually, 1 million + will give you enough cover.

12. Did you know there are 15 regions in Scotland? While it’s difficult to visit every region on one trip to Scotland, you can learn what each region has to offer and which ones you should visit in my guide to the regions in Scotland .

13. The most typical itinerary in Scotland (the most touristy one) is Edinburgh – Isle of Skye – Inverness and back to Edinburgh or Glasgow. I jokingly call it the ‘tourist triangle’!

This itinerary is absolutely fine if you want to hit all the tourist hotspots – but believe me when I say there is SO much more to Scotland than just this route. I always recommend getting off the beaten track at least ONCE during your trip to Scotland – because (trust me on this one) these areas are the ones that will be most memorable.

During my first trip to Scotland (you can see the itinerary right here ) my favourite memory was driving to Lochaber to see my ancestor’s castle, Achnacarry .

Packing For Your Scotland Trip

14. Are you wondering what to pack for your trip to Scotland? I’ve written a comprehensive guide on what to pack and wear in Scotland . I include recommendations on what I wear day to day for each season. Give it a read as I cover virtually every topic in this guide!

15. You do NOT need to pack waterproof pants unless you’re planning a multi-day hike or if you’re going hiking in the pouring rain. A rain jacket that covers your bum will be absolutely fine. I’ve written a short guide on the weather in Scotland that discusses how to dress for the rain in Scotland. I also debunk a few Scottish weather myths.

16. Facecloths/washcloths/flannels aren’t something that accommodations provide in Scotland, so if you like to use them be sure to bring some from home. Do not pack disposable washcloths – think of the environment!

Currency and Money In Scotland

17. How much cash should you bring to Scotland? Most places in Scotland accept major credit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard . American Express isn’t often accepted due to the high fees carriers have to pay.

Contactless payments are the preferred choice in Scotland, and Apple Pay is accepted almost everywhere. It is still worth carrying some cash with you, as there are still some places that accept cash only – usually small, independent shops that are located in remote areas.

It’s also useful to have some cash for tipping or paying for the bus (although contactless is now accepted on many buses in Scotland). I recommend carrying £200 cash at a time, and topping this up whenever you need to by withdrawing money from an ATM.

A note: Always check with your bank to see what they will charge you for withdrawing cash from an ATM in Scotland.

18. Money changers don’t give you a good exchange rate (they have to make money somehow!). If you would like to bring cash with you to Scotland, I recommend going to your bank and purchasing currency there.

Whenever I travel overseas, I just use my credit card and withdraw cash from the first free cash withdrawal ATM I find. There are many free cash withdrawal machines throughout Scotland that will give you a much better exchange rate than a money exchanger or bank.

19. A note on Scottish and English money. You can spend English pounds in Scotland – but you may not be able to spend Scottish pounds in England.

It’s a complicated issue – albeit a stupid one, seeing as both Scotland and England are part of the United Kingdom where the currency is the ‘Great British Pound’ (GBP). Basically, there are three banks that print money in Scotland – the Bank of Scotland, Royal Bank of Scotland and Clydesdale Bank – and England has its own printers.

To save yourself the stress, you can use English pounds everywhere in the UK, but try to only spend Scottish bank notes in Scotland.

You cannot use Euros or USD in either England or Scotland.

Flying To Scotland

20. Book your flights directly with the airline. I use Skyscanner to see which routes are available and which airlines have the better/cheaper deal. Then I go to the airline’s website to book directly. This means that if there are any changes or cancellations to your booking, you can contact the airline directly for a solution, rather than going through third parties.

You can also book flights through a travel agent (they usually book directly through the airline too). Travel agents usually charge a fee to do the booking on your behalf, but they will also deal with the airline on your behalf if there are any issues.

21. Search for flights into Glasgow , Edinburgh , and Inverness . These are the main international airports in Scotland. You can also search for flights into London, and catch the train to Edinburgh, or book an internal flight to one of the Scottish airports. I recommend catching the LNER train and travelling First Class between London and Edinburgh/Glasgow- I love the journey!

Culzean Castle in South West Scotland

22. I recommend booking your travel with the same ticket or airline all the way to your final destination. That way, if there’s a delay and you miss your next flight, the airline will bump you onto the next flight.

Delays and flight cancellations are unfortunately pretty common now, so be prepared if something like this should happen.

23. Pack your valuables and essentials in your carry-on, just in case your luggage is delayed. Be sure to take a photo of the inside of your checked luggage too – in case you need to do an insurance claim for lost luggage.

Finlarig Castle in Killin

24. Try not to stress or worry too much about travelling to Scotland – worry is one of the most pointless emotions because we can never predict the future. To help curb the worry, be as prepared as possible. I believe things happen for a reason – especially delays.

Whenever I’ve experienced a delay in life, it has always been for a reason – delays have allowed me to capture the most beautiful sunsets, meet lifelong friends, and have even better experiences. My first trip to Scotland was cancelled – if this hadn’t happened, I would have never met my husband!

Accommodation in Scotland

25. Should you book your accommodation in advance or wing it? My advice is to always book your accommodation in advance . Covid-19 has changed the way we travel in Scotland, and there is a lot of pent-up demand to travel here. As soon as you know where you’re going, book your accommodation. There are limited choices even when booking 3 months in advance!

26. I use Booking.com to search for accommodation in Scotland. This website has the largest range of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and self-catering accommodations for Scotland. I will always compare the price on Booking with the accommodation direct and book the better deal/price.

The Border Hotel in the Scottish Borders

27. If booking your accommodation with Booking.com – make the booking on your mobile. They sometimes have mobile-only specials that will save you more money!

28. Top sheets aren’t really a thing in Scotland. A bed usually has a fitted sheet, with the duvet on top, and sometimes an extra blanket for extra warmth. Just go with it.

Food and Drink

A fish supper/fish and chips in Scotland

29. Should you book all your restaurants in advance? In some places – yes. Here are the areas I recommend you pre-book:

• Most restaurants on Friday and Saturday night from May- September (book a couple of weeks or several days in advance)
• Edinburgh (on weekends in the summer in particular) at least 1-2 weeks in advance
• The Witchery By The Castle. This restaurant in Edinburgh is hugely popular with tourists, so I recommend you make a booking one month in advance or earlier to ensure you get a table for dinner. You can make a booking via their website .
• The Isle of Skye during the tourist season (May – September) at least 2 weeks in advance
• Small villages that only have a few restaurants

Don’t go overboard with booking everything – my advice is to book the restaurants that are must-visits for you, and leave some time for you to discover hidden gems on your travels. If you spot somewhere you might like to have dinner during your wanderings, pop in and see if there’s a table available for that night or the following night.

The Witchery By The Castle in Edinburgh

30. Haven’t got a restaurant booking? Try to eat outside the peak times. I’ve secured tables without having a booking at some of Scotland’s most popular restaurants by eating outside the peak times in summer:

• 10am -11.30am for brunch/lunch
• 2.30pm – 4pm for lunch
• 4pm – 6pm for dinner

31. A nice backup plan to have is to visit a local grocery store and pick up some local food from there. Enjoy a picnic in a scenic spot, or take it back to your accommodation (this is when self-catering accommodation comes in handy!).

Kilchoman beach whisky tasting

32. Try the following local Scottish food and drink:

• Full Scottish Breakfast (tattie scones will change your life)
• Steak Pie with Roast Tatties
• Cullen Skink
• Scotch Pies
• Scottish seafood from one of the many seafood restaurants on the coast or the islands
• Fish and Chips
• Scone with jam and clotted cream (in that order)
• Sticky Toffee Pudding
• Porridge with whisky (popular on Islay)
• Whisky (try a whisky from each whisky region – Lowland, Highland, Speyside, Islay and Campbeltown).
• Irn Bru (fizzy drink/pop)

A traditional Scottish steak pie is something you must try in Scotland

33. The most common grocery stores you’ll find in Scotland are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, ASDA, Morrisons, Aldi, Lidl, Marks and Spencer (M&S) , and Waitrose . Co-op stores (similar to a 7/11, dairy, or corner store) have a good range of basic groceries, and you’ll find these in most towns and villages. Spar is another brand that carries basic groceries.

34. Most of the grocery stores above will have a £3 meal deal, which includes a sandwich, snack and a drink. These are very popular, and great to pick up if you have a long drive or hike planned. Look out for these meal deals in a refrigerated section.

35. The vast majority of pubs and restaurants in Scotland cater to all dietary requirements and will have gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options. There are some fantastic vegan restaurants in Scotland – use the Happy Cow app to find vegan-friendly restaurants.

Driving and Transport In Scotland

One of Scotland’s steepest roads – Bealach na Ba

36. Fuel (petrol) is currently priced from £1.55 per litre. Yes, it’s expensive at the moment!

37. If you hold a full driving license from your country of residence you can hire a small vehicle and drive with that license in Scotland. You generally do not need an international driver’s license . If your driver’s license is not in English, you may have to apply for an international driver’s license or have an English translation available.

You can take this quiz you can take to determine if you can drive in Scotland on your current license.

38. I recommend driving for a maximum of three hours a day . Any more than that, and you’ll get bored of being in the car and you won’t see much!

The famous Kylesku Bridge on the North Coast 500

39. Waze and Google Maps are popular driving apps to help you navigate Scotland. They will give you a general idea of how long it takes to get from A to B, but I recommend always giving yourself extra time to reach your destination.

For example, it takes around 3 hours to drive from Edinburgh Airport to Inverness without stopping. If you’d like to stop and see the sights along the way, I would recommend allowing yourself 5-6 hours for the drive and sightseeing along the way. As a general rule, double your driving time if you plan on stopping along your driving route.

If you don’t plan on making any stops, add an extra 15 minutes to every hour it says it will take you to reach your destination. This will allow for traffic, road works and other common delays.

Travel by train in Scotland

40. The roads in Scotland are typically narrower than roads in the USA, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. Many roads in the countryside or more remote areas are single-lane, and some of the roads are made of shingle!

There are passing places on these single roads – and the rule of thumb is that you should pull into a passing place if it’s on your left. If its located on your right – stop next to it and let the other car pass by driving around you.

A quick wave of thanks is always appreciated if someone stops to let you pass by.

You will have to drive more slowly on these roads, so when looking at a map of Scotland, even though she looks like a small country, it does take you longer to drive to your destination than you’d assume!

For more tips, read this guide on driving in Scotland for the first time .

Did you know that we provide private driving tours in Scotland ? We can organise a day trip or multi-day tour for you and take you wherever you want to go! Visit our website  Kiwi and Haggis Tours  for more information.

The Hop On, Hop Off bus in Edinburgh

41. Car hire gets booked up very quickly due to the high demand for travel to Scotland. The price of car hire has also increased drastically since the pandemic. Be sure to book your car hire well in advance. I recommend Celtic Legend or Auto Europe (a car rental comparison site) for booking your car hire.

42. If you’re using public transport, you can purchase train tickets and bus tickets 3 months in advance.

How To Not Look Like A Tourist In Scotland

43. A note on your Scottish ancestry – some Scots will roll their eyes if you bring up that you’re related to Mary Queen of Scots or Robert the Bruce *.

Some Scots also don’t like it if you claim you’re Scottish, but were born and raised in another country. I’m telling you this so you can be prepared if, in the middle of a conversation, you proudly announce your Scottish heritage and you get a muted response. This has happened to me plenty of times! I don’t take it to heart – I’m proud of my Scottish ancestry, and it’s the reason I became so interested in visiting Scotland in the first place.

I think it’s great that so many people feel passionate about their Scottish heritage and want to visit their ancestral home. This has done wonders for Scottish tourism – and has kept the history and culture alive all around the world. Just don’t expect others to be as excited as you are!

*Fun fact: I actually am related to Robert the Bruce! He’s my 23x great-grandfather and I love visiting areas in Scotland where he once visited.

Sitting next to my 5x great grandfather’s grave in Scotland

44. Don’t make assumptions about the Scots – they don’t all drink whisky, play the bagpipes down at the local pub, speak Gaelic, eat haggis, and travel via standing stones.

Think of it this way – what’s an annoying stereotype from your country? What annoys you about tourists when they visit your country?

Modern Scotland is different from what is marketed around the world. Most Scots will choose beer or wine over whisky, go out for dinner at an Indian/Italian/Chinese restaurant, and jet off to Europe for a sunny holiday.

On the flipside, many Scots are proud of their history, and love to chat about it too – especially those who work in the tourism industry.

Be open-minded when you visit Scotland – learn about modern Scotland too – it’s pretty interesting!

Hanging out on the Isle of Islay

45. I don’t want the above two points to make you feel uneasy about visiting Scotland, because the Scots are some of the kindest, most hospitable people on earth! They have amazing wit, are generous, and love to have a good time.

Try staying in a bed and breakfast, to experience Scottish hospitality at its finest!

Read more: 10 Must-Sees in Scotland You Can’t Miss

46. The Scots are passionate about sustainability and looking after the environment – so my advice is to think carefully about what you pack and use during your trip to Scotland. Do not pack or use single-use products, such as make-up wipes, cotton buds, and plastic bottles.

Instead, pack reusable facecloths, a water bottle, reusable shopping bags, and washcloths (or just use your hands!). Please recycle when in Scotland – if you can’t find a recycling bin, just ask a shop, pub, or restaurant if you can use theirs!

For more helpful hints, check out my blog post on tips for sustainable travel in Scotland .

Important, Final Scotland Travel Tips

47. Join my Facebook group, Scotland Travel Tips , if you haven’t already. There is plenty of helpful information to help you plan your trip in this group – be sure to use the search function to find information on the area you want to visit.

48. If you’d like a shortcut to planning your Scotland trip, I created the Ultimate Scotland Travel Bundle which contains an eBook, 70-page printable planner, and 7 must-see Scotland travel planners which list all the must-sees in Scotland’s major tourist destinations. It will save you hours and hours of searching the internet (and wading through misinformation!).

49. My most comprehensive product for Scotland planning is my Planning A Trip To Scotland course . This course features over 70 videos and covers every aspect of planning your trip- from creating your itinerary, to booking your trip, learning how to get around using public transport, money saving tips, travel inspiration and so much more! I created it with my friend and Lonely Planet Scotland writer, Kay from The Chaotic Scot. Between us, there is nothing we don’t know about Scotland travel!

👉 Buy the Planning A Trip To Scotland course

Carrick Castle, a hidden gem in the Cowal Peninsula

50. And finally – have a great time in Scotland! I have a saying, and that is it’s impossible to plan a bad trip to Scotland .

After reading this article, you now know the most common questions that travellers ask – so you are already equipped with some solid knowledge on travelling to Scotland!

Try not to stress if you don’t get everything ticked off your bucket list, or if your flight is delayed – Scotland has a magical way of bringing you into the present moment and enjoying what’s in front of you.

Have an amazing time in Scotland, and please share this article if you found it useful!

Are there any tips you’d add to this list? Leave a comment below and help out your fellow travellers!

This is the seventh and final article in my Planning A Trip to Scotland series . Sign up here to have the whole series emailed to you.

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Vickie Wyatt

Saturday 16th of March 2024

Congratulations on new baby, seeing Scotland has been a life long dream, I’ve never traveled except neighboring states and we drove, it is a gift from my nephew and we are traveling together. And driving in Scotland. I too have Scott ancestry paternal 2 x great grandfather James Bankhead. During my travel research I was surprised at how many places and areas called Bankhead,the only thing I know is most family were miners including my dad Roy Bankhead was a coal miner, but I’m not doing any ancestry research I just want to see Scotland, I’m so happy to have this opportunity I don’t care if we have any hiccups. We have a few places I want to see but the rest is whatever we decide to see.

Wednesday 18th of October 2023

Thanks for the tips........these will come in handy when make plans.

Frenney Olivia Lobo

Tuesday 10th of October 2023

Hi Yvette, very informative article and Scotland is a very welcoming and beautiful country - greenery, clean air, clean roads, clean everything. I would like to add a point here as I am guessing this article is from covid times. I travelled to Scotland in Sep. 2023 from Dubai, UAE to Aberdeen airport.

My friends in Scotland told me that Scottish currency notes are accepted in England too now (worth a check). I was skeptical of bringing Scottish currency to UAE for exchange however I was also able to exchange it at the exchange house (though not at the Dubai airport) and got the same exchange rate as GBP sterling.

To travel by train and book tickets I used the "train app" and it came very handy, hassle free and paper free.

To the edible must try list you could also add the fruit jams with whisky, gin or champagne and the fruit flavoured delectable homemade gins from the distillery (I got from Stirling Distillery)

Scotland is very beautiful and anyone who loves nature, tranquility and the countryside would quickly fall in love with this place. Hope to visit again - “Haste ye back”

Warm regards,

Saturday 14th of January 2023

Hi I'm coming over this April I want to see as much as I can in the month I'm there

Laura Weems (Clan Wemyss)

Thursday 1st of September 2022

I absolutely love your blog! Is there a way to follow it, get email updates, etc? Thank you!

Yvette Webster

Monday 5th of September 2022

Aww thank you- you certainly can, the best thing to do is sign up to my newsletter: wayfaringkiwi.com/sign-up/ xx

Hi Laura, I give regular updates on my Facebook page and Instagram account (instagram.com/wayfaringkiwi11) and I also send out regular Scotland newsletters! You can sign up for that here: wayfaringkiwi.com/sign-up/

Scotland Tours & Holidays

Misty highlands, sparkling lochs and rolling hills – there is a reason Scotland is known for its natural beauty. 

But it’s not all just deserted moors and moss-covered forests (although there are plenty of those too!), Scotland’s rich history and culture are also a big drawcard. From exploring the medieval city of Edinburgh , to the lively fun of a traditional pub where many a wee whisky can be enjoyed, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the hospitality of the local Scots beyond the clichés of kilts and bagpipes. Discovering areas like the enchanting Scottish Highlands , the modern hub of Glasgow and the wilderness of the Isle of Skye, all with the inside knowledge of a local leader is an entirely unique experience.

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Learn more about Scotland

Local culture.

Some might know the Scots, as they are fondly referred to, for their tartan kilts, bagpipe playing, whisky or delicious shortbread, but there is a lot more to this British nation than these clichés.  

The people of Scotland are a mixture of Scottish,  British  and several minority immigrant groups. Many of Scotland’s traditions have roots in Celtic heritage. A large portion of the population are Christian, with some Catholics and others who make up the Kirk, the Presbyterian Church of Scotland. The Scottish are famous for their polite and friendly nature, stoic attitude and good sense of humour.

Soccer or football as it is known locally is a very popular sport, with rugby also being widely watched. For literature fans, the Harry Potter book series is deeply connected with the city of Edinburgh, as it was here that author JK Rowling lived when she wrote most of the books. You can visit the cafes where she wrote as well as see many of the places that inspired parts of her stories, including cemeteries and other buildings.

Geography and environment

Scotland is the most northern part of Great Britain and borders England. The low mountains of the highlands make up 60 per cent of Scotland’s land. Scotland’s flora is similar to most of northern Europe with forests, rugged coasts and moors. There are 62 different species of wild mammals in Scotland, common ones include: grouse, wild cats and off the coast there are many seabirds, seals and dolphins.

The climate of Scotland is classified as temperate, which means it has distinct seasonal changes and wider ranges of temperatures throughout the year. In winter, average temperatures are between five and seven degrees Celsius (41 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit) and in summer between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). The western highlands experience a lot of rain throughout the year, but other areas of Scotland receive much less rain.

If you’re looking to buy authentic Scottish wares, there are options aplenty in the capital city of Edinburgh and other large cities like Glasgow.

If you are after something special, some Edinburgh Crystal, which is owned by Waterford Wedgewood makes an excellent luxury souvenir. Deck yourself out with a set of new drinking glasses, bowls or for something really different – a crystal bell.

If you’re after a gift or souvenir that is a little more edible, you can’t go past a bottle of authentic Scottish whisky. Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a popular choice and whether you’re a connoisseur or a total whisky novice, the local proprietors will love talking you through the different tipples – they are a passionate lot.

If you have family heritage in Scotland, it can be a fun exercise to hunt down your clan tartan. But even if you don’t have one, a woollen scarf, hat or if you’re feeling brave, a kilt, is a distinctly Scottish piece of attire to add to your wardrobe.

Festivals and events

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is on during August each year and is a massive global arts and cultural event. It takes places in over 300 venues around Edinburgh and includes a range of performances and experiences across theatre, comedy, dance, physical theatre, circus, cabaret, children's shows, musicals, opera, music, spoken word, exhibitions and events.

Hogmanay Street Party

Hogmanay is a traditional Scottish celebration that takes place over New Year’s. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party is a three-day festival that runs at various locations across the city. With multiple stages with entertainment set up, a torchlight procession and plenty of opportunities for a ‘wee dram’, tickets for this festival are highly sought after and can sell out months in advance.

Highland Games

The Highland Games are held in spring and summer and are one of Scotland’s most iconic events. There are many traditional athletic events like tug-of-war and caber toss, where competitors dress in traditional kilts and spectators enjoy all the social and cultural festivities that come with it, including traditional food, drinks and music.

The Glasgow Whisky Festival

If you’re heading to Glasgow as well as Edinburgh (and you should!) the Whisky Festival is a great time to go. A showcase of Scottish and specifically Glaswegian distillers is the focus, but there is also a celebration of international whisky too, with attendees from all over the world. It is Scotland’s national drink after all…

Scottish food

The Scottish food scene is garnering international attention thanks to Scotland's elite chefs like Gordon Ramsay (Scottish born, even if he did spend his schoolyears in England), Nick Nairn and Andrew Fairlie. These culinary wizards are taking the country's incredible natural produce – beef, venison and seafood – and bringing us a whole new era of more refined Scottish cuisine. However, if you’re looking for some traditional Scottish fare, here are some dishes you must try.

It might not sound very appealing but if you’re a meat eater, you might surprise yourself by enjoying haggis too. Haggis is made of sheep or calf offal, mixed with oatmeal and seasoning before being boiled in a bag (although traditionally it was boiled in the lining of an animal’s stomach). The overall effect is not dissimilar to a sausage with a grainier texture and is often served alongside a traditional roast dinner.

Scottish porridge

A traditional breakfast food, Scottish porridge differs slightly from the standard oatmeal you might be used to eating at home. It has been a population dish for centuries and traditionally should be eaten out of a wooden bowl, with everyone dipping their oats into a communal bowl of cream (for some reason you should also eat it standing up). The preparation is also quite unique – traditionally it should be stirred with a wooden rod called a spirtle and only ever stirred clockwise with your right hand, unless you want to incur the wrath of the devil. While you might put sugar on your porridge at home, in Scotland it’s served with a generous pinch of salt!

A traditional Scottish shortbread is a simple biscuit cake with only three ingredients. Butter, sugar and flour. Cover it in sugar and cut the cake into wedges while it’s still hot and it will cool into delicious, crumbly triangle-shaped biscuits. It’s all in the texture…

Scotch pies

A scotch pie is a meat pie, traditionally filled with mutton or other mincemeat. It is double crusted, single portion pie that is often enjoyed at soccer (football) games, which has earned it the nickname of ‘football pie’. The lid of the pie is slightly sunken from the crust, to allow space for condiments to be put on top.

Further reading

• Tam O’Shanter by Robert Burns

Doctor Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Stevenson

The Complete Works of Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

A Drunk Man Looks at the Thistle by Hugh McDiarmid

The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie by Dame Muriel Spark

Not While the Giro by James Kelman

Wire in the Blood by Val McDermid and Ian Rankin

Scotland travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Scotland?

Visa regulations are always subject to change, which is especially likely after Britain's exit from the European Union (EU), so it's essential to check before leaving home.

Citizens of EU countries, Australia, Canada and the United States have visa-free access to Scotland.

Is tipping customary in Scotland?

Tipping is customary in some situations in Scotland.

Restaurant bills usually include an option to add a gratuity. If this option isn’t present, it’s still common to tip about 10 per cent of the bill.

Tipping about 10 per cent is also standard in taxis. 

What is the internet access like in Scotland?

You will have reliable internet access while in Scotland’s major cities and towns. 

Can I use my mobile phone while in Scotland?

You will have mobile coverage across most of Scotland, except for some rural and remote areas.

R emember to activate global roaming with your provider if you wish to use your mobile while travelling. 

What are the toilets like in Scotland?

Scotland has Western-style toilets.

What will it cost for a…?

• Cup of coffee = £2.5
• Pint of beer = £4
• Glass of wine = £4 - £5
• Pub lunch = £12 
• Dinner at a mid-range restaurant = £30

Can I drink the water in Scotland?

Drinking tap water is safe in Scotland unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, we recommend avoiding buying bottled water and bring a refillable bottle or canteen with you. 

Are credit cards widely accepted in Scotland?

You will be able to use your credit card readily in Scotland, however it never hurts to carry a small amount of cash on you to make things simpler if you are splitting bills or just want a quick cup of coffee.

What is ATM access like in Scotland?

ATMs are referred to as cashpoints in Scotland and are commonly found.

You can use Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Cirrus, Plus and Maestro at most Scottish ATMs but you will also find international bank ATMs in major cities like Edinburgh and Scotland.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Scotland?

Please note, Scotland's public holidays may vary from year to year.

Is Scotland a safe destination for LGBTQI+ travellers?

Scotland is an open country and legalised same-sex marriage in 2014. Edinburgh and Glasgow in particular have small but flourishing gay communities. 

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex   or  Smartraveller  before you travel.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilise school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

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Scotland Tours from New Zealand

Embrace adventure with our Scotland tours from New Zealand. Your holiday package could be a Highland road trip or a guided tour that focuses on whisky or Scottish heritage.

Holidays in Scotland from New Zealand

Planning a trip to Scotland from New Zealand? You have great choices for customisable Scotland holidays from New Zealand with Nordic Visitor, a travel agency located in the heart of the charming capital city Edinburgh. 

Take an amazing trip with a Scotland holiday package that includes unique accommodation, transportation and more — all arranged by local travel experts. From Highland road trips to guided tours that focus on whisky or Scottish heritage, trust your holiday to Nordic Visitor.

To get started on your Scotland holiday from New Zealand, keep browsing below for tour ideas and other Scotland travel tips.

— WHY US?

Why book with nordic visitor.

• Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
• Flexible & customisable tour options
• Value for your money
• Professional service from local experts

Experience Scotland on a road trip

Explore the Highlands and beyond on a self-drive tour. We handle your accommodation booking and route planning; you drive and experience Scotland at your own pace.

Classic Scotland

Scottish highlands & isle of skye, grand tour of scotland, scottish highlands & north coast 500, classic scotland at leisure, join a small group tour in scotland.

Meet like minded travellers on your Scotland trip, in a small group of 16 people at most. See the top attractions and well-kept secrets with your local guide.

Wonders of Scotland

Highlights of Scotland

Wonders of scotland & ireland, best of ireland & scotland, explore scotland on a private tour.

Enjoy flexible sightseeing and more Scottish cultural insights on a privately guided tour with a local driving you around in style.

Scottish Highlands & Isle of Skye - Private

Scenic scotland express - private, classic scotland - private, complete scotland - private, experience scotland your way.

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Scotland below.

Guided Small Groups

Privately guided, best sellers, culinary experience, scottish heritage tours, the scottish highlands, all travel styles, how & when to travel to scotland from new zealand.

Want to tour Scotland by car and explore at your own pace? Like New Zealand,  motorists in Scotland  also drive on the left, so a road trip is a great choice. Nordic Visitor makes it easy, with a range of Scotland self-drive holiday packages that include a rental car, pre-arranged accommodations (with daily breakfast), a hand-marked map, free GPS, personalised itinerary and more. 

To get the best weather and daylight hours, book your road trip between April and October -- the  Scotland summer weather  is best in July and August. Shorter self-drive tours are also available in Scotland’s winter months, November to March. 

If you don’t want to do the driving, or if you’re travelling solo in Scotland from Australia, then a  privately guided tour , available year-round, or a  guided small group tour  from May to September are both wonderful options. In particular, guided holiday packages to Scotland from Australia are perfect for travellers with an interest in Scottish ancestry or  whisky tasting .

BESPOKE TRIPS TO SCOTLAND FROM NEW ZEALAND

Want to add a few personal touches to your Scotland holiday from New Zealand? All of Nordic Visitor’s Scotland tour packages can be  tailored by our local experts  with extra nights at select locations, arrivals or departures in alternative Scottish cities, day tours in Edinburgh, and more. We can even a tailor an extra-special itinerary for a honeymoon in Scotland , or arrange  Scottish heritage tours  for travellers with ancestral roots.

• Related: Fun facts about Scotland

WHAT TO SEE ON A DRIVING HOLIDAY OF SCOTLAND

For touring holidays around Scotland by car, there are several different route options depending on the sights you prefer, your length of stay and the pace of your travel. Below are a few of our suggested routes starting from Edinburgh .

Under a week: To see the most famous Highland attractions in a short time, give yourself at least 4 - 5 days to travel around the Inverness , Fort William and Loch Lomond areas. Want to visit some islands? Then plan to spend at least 6 days to drive through the Highlands to the Isle of Skye or -- if you’re a whisky lover -- the Oban and Isle of Mull area. On this express route of Scotland, you can visit sights such as Loch Ness, the picturesque valley of Glen Coe, Eilean Donan Castle and more.

1 - 2 weeks : To get the most out of your long journey to Scotland from New Zealand, spend around 10 days or more on your holiday. This allows you to extend your Highland trip to other unique places, like the beautiful old city of St Andrews and the “Castle Trail” region of Aberdeenshire. In 12 days or more you can expand your route to include the Orkney Islands , the scenic North Coast 500 route or the secluded isles of Harris and Lewis in the Outer Hebrides . With a tour of over 2 weeks, you could even add a trip to to the far-flung Shetland Isles , the northernmost point of Scotland and all of Britain.

— Things To Do in Scotland

Top scottish experiences.

• Tour one of Scotland‘s local distilleries and see how whisky, the “water of life”, is produced
• Sample traditional Scottish cuisine such as haggis, porridge, kippers and black pudding
• Stroll the Royal Mile in Edinburgh's Old Town, between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace
• Look for Nessie, the mysterious monster said to inhabit Loch Ness, Scotland's most famous lake
• Visit Clava Cairns to see prehistoric standing stones similar to those in the Outlander TV series

What do our customers say?

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers from New Zealand said about their experience with us.

Alice, New Zealand

Classic scotland, june 2023, very good communication from nordic visitor.

Almost all of the accommodation exceeded our expectations - some being excellent. The car was fantastic - easy to drive, spacious and very good mileage. Very good communication with our Nordic Visitor tour planner.

Sharna, New Zealand

Ultimate journey of scotland, june 2023.

The ease of just turning up and enjoying ourselves was fabulous. Pretty much everything was catered for. Overall, all stays were amazing. The travel was well-calculated for each day, also allowing us to go off on our own adventures. Kirsten did an fabulous job and we'd jump at the chance to do it all again!

Alan, New Zealand

Grand tour of scotland, june 2018, we really like the tour packages you provide.

We really like the tour packages you provide. We have now completed 2 tours with you and at present we are in Iceland on your Iceland Complete Tour. We may do the Lake District in England with you in the future.

Anne, New Zealand

Grand tour of scotland, june 2017, the self-drive tour was wonderful for us.

The self-drive tour was wonderful for us. It meant that we did not have to plan ourselves, and were advised of the best things to see along the way. However we still had the freedom to chose other things. All the accommodation was fantastic. Friendly welcoming staff/hosts and great food.

Research Your Holiday

Start preparing for your trip by doing some research before your Scottish adventure.

The starting point of most Scottish adventures is Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city, where the...

This is one spot where you’ll definitely want to pull the car over for a photo. The Quiraing is...

Sitting at the heart of Scotland, Stirling is where the Lowlands meet the Highlands. Owing to...

What to bring

Come prepared for all seasons and activities with ..

Find out more about the British currency and commo..

What kind of temperatures can you expect in Scotla..

From single malt whisky to traditional delicacies,..

Flights to Scotland from New Zealand

The two biggest international airports in Scotland are in Glasgow , Scotland’s largest city, and in Edinburgh , the charming capital city and usual starting point for Nordic Visitor tours. Tours of England and Scotland from New Zealand typically require one or two connecting flights, usually at major airports such as Dubai, Doha (Qatar), Singapore and London Heathrow.

Some of the largest airlines with flights from New Zealand to Scotland include (but are not limited to) Emirates, Qatar Airways and Air New Zealand, and the flight time from New Zealand to Scotland can take 30 hours or more, depending on the number and duration of layovers. We recommend checking with the airlines for flight availability and timetables. Flights are not included in Nordic Visitor packages.

What is the time difference between New Zealand and Scotland? The UK is on the GMT time zone, putting New Zealand 13 hours ahead of Scotland. To rest up and refresh after your New Zealand to Scotland air journey, we recommend adding an extra day or two in Edinburgh on arrival. Your dedicated Nordic Visitor travel consultant can adjust your itinerary accordingly.

Our Services

Whether you travel independently or with a guide in your Nordic Visitor package, you will receive personalised service from a designated travel consultant and high-quality travel documents. What's more, all self-drive clients receive a hand-marked map that outlines the driving route, overnights and highlights along the way. Travel with ease knowing that Nordic Visitor has close professional relationships with local service providers , which are carefully selected by our staff for their consistently high standards.

Book With Confidence

• Protect your money & plans with our  flexible booking terms    .
• 97% of customers say they’d recommend us to friends.
• We work closely with trusted, high-quality suppliers.
• Enjoy personal service from Scotland travel experts.
• Get peace of mind with a 24/7 helpline during your stay.
• We’re here for you in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Whether you’re looking to add a night in Edinburgh, want restaurant recommendations or have questions about your tour, we’re happy to help so get in touch with our friendly team to answer any of your travel queries.

Our Scottish phone number is +44 (0)131 344 4630

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Read About Scotland

10 cool scottish facts, best time to visit scotland: your complete guide, summer in scotland guide: what to do and where to go, 7 outlander filming locations to visit in scotland.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

Find cheap flights from New Zealand to Scotland from £552

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from new zealand to scotland departing on 30/6. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to scotland.

Save 24% or more Compare multiple travel sites with one search.

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Good to know - Cheap tickets from New Zealand to Scotland

Faqs for booking flights from new zealand to scotland, how does kayak find such low prices on flights from new zealand to scotland.

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from New Zealand to Scotland.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from New Zealand to Scotland?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Scotland from New Zealand is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from New Zealand to Scotland?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional return ticket. You could then fly to Scotland with an airline and back to New Zealand with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from New Zealand to Scotland?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Scotland from New Zealand up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top 3 airlines serving from New Zealand to Scotland

All was good, the only thing was it didn't run on time.

The staff and crew on board were excellent. Business class however, was very weird. I thought we would have individual pods, but the way it was set up was unexpected. Not very private and If you wanted to lay down, you had to have an entire bed made up for you by the crew, rather than how Delta one works where you could just lie down whenever you feel like it. It was a 16 hour flight. I chose not to have my bed made, and that turned out to be a good idea because everybody who had their bed made had to wait for the crew to roll up their mattresses. So strange!

Crew were pleasant, happy to be there and were a joy to be around. Entire operation was professional, well thought out and ran like a Swiss clock.

United flight from SFO to PDX was cancelled. I will ask for a refund. Had to book on Alaska

Good food and entertainment options. Great Staff that were all welcoming and caregiving.

Flight was canceled due to technical issue shortly before the check-in counters opened. Passengers were rebooked on a flight three days later. Request to be accommodated on Air Tahiti Nui could not be processed. Customer service sorted out the refund after calling and being put on hold for almost an hour.

Carring crew, nice ambiance of the cabin, comfortable beds, good food well served. We liked everything.

2 of the 6 economy toilets were out of order. Drinks were not offered often enough - you have to order on-screen, which is often unavailable. Snacks and Milo ran out very early. Crew was fine but I think there was a sticking issue

Flight attendants are always pleasant and helpful. Pilot kept us updated.

No refunds for flights that I could not take due to Covid restrictions

When boarding, after business class should be premium economy, but economy class already lined-up at the gate blocking premium economy to board. Singapore airline crew should done a better job to organize this chaos :( Thank you.

Every thing was fine. Some ild classical Hindi movies should be add

The premium economy seats were not that great. It could have been more premium than economy seats.

A pc of cake or biscuit at least. The airport was like a maze need to take another bus to the main terminal to immigration.

They close their counter so early. I had internet issues so I couldn’t check In online . I would have made the flight but their counter was closed 5 minutes before we arrived. No way of contacting them even though I had the confirmation number and tried to check in the night before on someone else’s phone. I tried calling their customer service with no pick up. Horrible experience, I’m very unhappy with them. I hope to never fly with them ever again. It costed me almost $900.

Even though it was a very full flight, the service was still excellent, the plane did not feel too cramped and cabin crew made a sincere effort to help passengers find overhead space for stowing luggage.

The stewardess was very helpful all the way. My seat had an issue with headphones and after the replaced and gave me a new pair and noticed it was the seat I got a new chair to sit and a great ride back home

Would have been nice to have more variety and less dairy in the Indian Vegetarian special meal. Why do they include Parathas as part of the entree and also on the side (substitute for bread/roll)? Also, no need for so much dairy...don't need milk packet, yogurt and Chobani Greek yogurt in the same meal.

A very small gate at Singapore airport, lots of people packed into a small area…. A Petrie dish for infection. The flight was late although the captain did make up time. We had an aisle and middle economy class seat on the plane. The flight appeared to be very full. The seats were small, hard and very uncomfortable with minimal leg room. I’m a small woman and felt really cramped. My husband is a big man and stated he was unable to move at all in his seat. We were given 2 meals during the flight from Singapore to Brisbane. Our first meal was okay at best but the second meal was inedible. I think it was supposed to be veg in pastry but the pastry was full of air with minimal if any filling. The staff were pleasant and efficient. Getting off the plane went without any problems. It did take an extended period of time for our bags to come out onto the carousel. For the best ‘airline’ in the world, it was pretty poor. If Singapore is the best, what are the others like?

The male traveller seated in the row in front diagonally opposite my husbands seat across the aisle as soon as the seatbelt sign went off moved across the aisle into the seat in front of my husband for the entire journey from London to Singapore he had his seat reclined and pushed back and the seat touching my husbands knees for the entire journey from London to Singapore. very uncomfortable for my husband.

For some reason the cabin was kept very cold. Unlike my flight over which i would say was excellent this was a long, cold flight home.

Note that food has to be purchased in flight. No free food. And no entertainment in flight. So I’ve treated these two items as okay which, in this case, means neutral/not applicable.

My Dad needed assistance to board the plane. The Jetstar staff were excellent with him and made the experience a lot easier😁

No food taken so can't rate also no entertainment so can't rate.

The price difference/saving isn't sufficient to compensate the experience difference, don't recommend unless flight is under 3 hours. Huge queues for check in and the priority lane of other ailines blocked checked in Jetstar passengers from proceeding through to screening. Gate change to a "dungeon gate" that didn't have toilets in the vicinity. 45minute delay in boarding, no updates or explaination, let alone apology for any inconvenience. 1 scanner working for a full fight to board, no coordination. Loaded on to crowded buses to get on the plane in the middle of the tarmac, up stairs with no explaination. 4 bus trips. No system for boarding in sections. Over an hour late departing. Nothing complimentary, not even water or in-flight music. Pay wave not available and no cash sales. Staff onboard were friendly and professional.

It was a super crowded time to travel out of Melbourne, but the flight was OK

Check in was awful. Crowded and staff was lazy. Service for food was slow, could have turned off the lights much earlier which could make the red eye flight much more convenient

It may have been a result of earlier issues with a previous plane, causing delays, but the staff were not nearly as smiley as the previous Jetstar flight I was on. Also, they started boarding before the plane was empty...so we moved from one line into another line. They should have just waited until the plane was empty to avoid waiting in two lines.

Captains address to passengers was excellent. Knee room in seating was very uncomfortable.

Great service with an excellent selection of food onboard at reasonable prices. Seats are supportive and there’s enough room for me (I’m 5” 8). Water was supplied free of charge which doesn’t always happen for budget flights.

Book cheap flights from New Zealand to Scotland

Recent return flight deals, search by stops, search by airline, search by price, recent one-way flight deals, last minute flights to scotland, last minute flight, train and bus deals, flights to scotland, return flight deals:.

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Find cheap flights from Scotland to New Zealand from $1,381

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from scotland to new zealand departing on 12/8. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to new zealand.

Track prices Not ready to book? Create a price alert for when prices drop.

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Filter your deals Choose cabin class, free Wi-Fi and more.

Good to know

Faqs for booking flights from scotland to new zealand, how does kayak find such low prices on flights from scotland to new zealand.

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from Scotland to New Zealand.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from Scotland to New Zealand?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to New Zealand from Scotland is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from Scotland to New Zealand?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional return ticket. You could then fly to New Zealand with an airline and back to Scotland with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from Scotland to New Zealand?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to New Zealand from Scotland up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Book cheap flights from Scotland to New Zealand

Recent return flight deals, search by stops, search by airline, search by price, recent one-way flight deals, last minute flights from scotland to new zealand, last minute flight, train and bus deals, flights to new zealand, return flight deals:.

New Zealand - Scotland

Cabin classes:

Browse origins:.

• Flights  » 
• Worldwide  » 
• United Kingdom  » 

Browse destinations:

• New Zealand

• How to get to Scotland

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

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• getting-there
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The quickest, easiest and cheapest way to get to Scotland is by plane . Scotland has three main international airports: Glasgow , Edinburgh and Aberdeen . Glasgow handles most nonstop scheduled flights from North America; all three have a reasonable spread of European flights.

From England and Wales

From ireland, from mainland europe, from the us and canada, from australia and new zealand, from south africa, tailor-made travel itineraries for scotland, created by local experts.

20 days  / from 3018 USD

The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

6 days  / from 617 USD

Festive Feelings around Christmas in Scotland

Experience the magic of Christmas in the heart of the Scottish Highlands! Lovely Christmas Markets and winter festivals await visitors during the winter months, but this itinerary can also be turned into a summer festival hop!

11 days  / from 1079 USD

Scotland's Wildest Natural Scenery

Want to lose yourself in Scotland's wildest natural scenery? This itinerary is a breath of fresh air and perfect to explore the most enchanting landscapes of the Highlands. It will allow you to get to know the wildest landscapes of Scotland, its fast-paced history and its amazing traditions.

Tailor-made trips for   Scotland

With most airlines nowadays, how much you pay depends on how far in advance you book and how much demand there is during that period – the earlier you book, the cheaper the prices.

If you’re coming from elsewhere in Britain, from Ireland or even northwest Europe, you can reach Scotland easily enough by train, bus or ferry – it probably won’t work out cheaper or faster than flying, but it’s undoubtedly better for the environment.

Book tickets and tours in Edinburgh

If you’re heading out to the Highlands and Islands, flying is the quickest way to travel. Airfares are only really competitive, however, on popular routes such as London or Birmingham to Edinburgh and Glasgow, which can cost as little as £50 return (journey time around 1hr). Once you add on the cost of taxes and getting to and from the airport, the savings on the same journey overland are often minimal – and then, of course, there’s the environmental impact to consider.

Flying may be quick, but the coach and train fares can be pretty competitive. If you book far enough in advance, train fares can cost as little as £40 for a London or Manchester to Glasgow return (journey time from 4hr 45min or 3hr 30min). A more flexible or last-minute fare will obviously cost two or three times that amount. Another option is the overnight Caledonian Sleeper run by ScotRail from London Euston (daily except Sat; journey time around 7hr); again, if you book in advance, single overnight fares cost around £20, though most return fares are more like £100 return. The coach takes longer than the train (journey time around 9hr), but costs less, with a London or Birmingham to Glasgow return starting for as little as £30.

Book tickets and tours in Glasgow

Travel from Ireland is quickest by plane, with airfares from either Belfast or Dublin to Glasgow Prestwick from as little as €40 return. There are also good ferry links with Northern Ireland and the train and ferry fares are very competitive: Belfast to Glasgow (via Stranraer) is just £50 return (journey time 5hr). P&O Irish Sea runs several sea crossings daily from Larne to Cairnryan (1hr) and Troon (2hr) and Stena Line operates services daily from Belfast to Stranraer (2hr 10min).

Ferries run by DFDS Seaways go overnight from IJmuiden, near Amsterdam, to Newcastle (daily; 16–17hr), less than an hour’s drive south of the Scottish border. High-season return fares start at around €300, for a passenger with a car and an overnight berth. Direct Ferries (directferries.co.uk) has a very useful website that gives you the latest information on crossings and allows you to compare all the options.

If you fly nonstop to Scotland from North America , you’ll arrive in either Glasgow or Edinburgh. The majority of cheap fares, however, route through London, Manchester, Dublin or Paris. To reach any other Scottish airport, you’ll definitely need to go via London, Glasgow or Edinburgh.

Figure on six to seven hours’ flight time nonstop from the east coast to Glasgow, or seven hours to London plus an extra hour and a quarter from London to Glasgow or Edinburgh (not including stopover time). Add three or four hours more for travel from the west coast.

Return fares (including taxes) for nonstop flights to Glasgow from New York are $700–800; for nonstop flights from Toronto return fares are Can$700–800.

Flight time from Australia and New Zealand to Scotland is at least 22 hours. There’s a wide variety of routes, with those touching down in Southeast Asia the quickest and cheapest on average. To reach Scotland, you usually have to change planes either in London – the most popular choice – or in another European gateway such as Paris or Amsterdam. Given the length of the journey involved, you might be better off including a night’s stopover in your itinerary, and indeed some airlines include one in the price of the flight.

The cheapest direct scheduled flights to London are usually to be found on one of the Asian airlines . Average return fares (including taxes) from eastern gateways to London are Aus$1500–2000 in low season, Aus$2000–2500 in high season. Fares from Perth or Darwin cost around Aus$200 less. Return fares from Auckland to London range between NZ$2000 and NZ$3000 depending on the season, route and carrier.

There are no direct flights from South Africa to Scotland, so you must change planes en route. The quickest and cheapest route to take is via London, with flight time around eleven hours, usually overnight. Return fares from Cape Town to London are ZAR7500–10,000; you’ll save money if you buy the next leg of your journey to Scotland online.

The Rough Guides to Scotland and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Scotland

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Scotland

• Eating and drinking in Scotland
• Getting around Scotland: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Scotland for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Scotland

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• Travel Tips

written by Lucy Kane

updated 2.06.2021

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While Scotland isn’t winning any prizes for year-round sunshine, it does give travellers the chance to experience all four seasons. Summer offers the hottest temps and long, sunny days between June and August, while winter will bring the cold, fog and snow between December and February. If you’re not a fan of the cold and are keen to make the most of your days in Scotland, we recommend visiting between March and August.

Beyond sampling haggis and shopping for your next kilt, Scotland packs a mighty punch when it comes to holiday activities. Take your pick from days spent exploring bustling cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow, enjoying some fresh air in the West Highlands, visiting the famous Loch Ness and sampling artisan produce in the Outer Hebrides.

Flight Centre's travel experts are well versed in the art of decoding thick Scottish accents, and have worked hard to curate the best Scotland holiday packages on the market. Sign up to get the hottest deals sent straight to your phone & emails here . You can also check out our deals online, or speak to one of our Travel Experts.

Scotland offers travellers a bounty of experiences, from city’s overflowing with medieval history to roadtrips through lush countryside. Hire a car or camper and take your time meandering through green hills, stopping in at cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh before cosying up at coastal towns like Aberdeen and Dundee.

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Cheap flights from New Zealand to Scotland from $1,159

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a cheapflights user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight departing on 30/6. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., how far in advance should i book a flight from new zealand to scotland.

To save on the cost of your flight from New Zealand to Scotland, book at least 46 days before your planned departure. Booking around this time can save you about 11% on the cost of this flight compared to booking a flight leaving this week. We have found prices from $3,030 if you need a flight within two weeks. For flights within the next 72 hours, you can find tickets from as low as $3,327.

What is the cheapest month to fly from New Zealand to Scotland?

October can be a great time to fly to Scotland from New Zealand with a flight ticket averaging about $3,110. Cheapflights users have found deals in the month of October for as cheap as $2,236. The most expensive prices can be found in the month of December.

When is the cheapest time to fly from New Zealand to Scotland (NZ - SCT)?

When flying from New Zealand to Scotland, the time of day you decide to fly out makes little to no difference towards the overall price you’ll pay on tickets.

Cheap Hainan Airlines flights from New Zealand to Scotland

Explore cheap flight options specifically provided by hainan airlines for the route between new zealand and scotland. find affordable fares and compare prices with other airlines to secure the best deal for your journey. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 113,990 searches. data last updated 5 april 2024., peruse some of the lowest-priced hainan airlines flights we've found from new zealand to scotland. be sure to come back soon if the deals available don't appeal to you at this time., cheap turkish airlines flights from new zealand to scotland, explore cheap flight options specifically provided by turkish airlines for the route between new zealand and scotland. find affordable fares and compare prices with other airlines to secure the best deal for your journey. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 113,990 searches. data last updated 5 april 2024., have a look at some of the cheapest available turkish airlines flights departing from new zealand and landing in scotland. make sure to examine the flight information before completing your reservation., cheap new zealand to scotland flights in april & may 2024, find cheap flight options from new zealand to scotland specifically for the months of april and may 2024. explore affordable fares based on user searches. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 113,990 searches. prices were last updated on 5 april 2024., scroll through some of the best deals on flights from new zealand to scotland in 2024. check back in a little while for more flight options., new zealand to scotland 2024 flight deals, discover exclusive flight deals for travel between new zealand and scotland in 2024. find excellent offers based on user searches. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 113,990 searches. data last updated 5 april 2024., new zealand to scotland flights leaving soon, find last-minute flight options from new zealand to scotland for spontaneous travel. discover available flights and compare prices based on user searches. secure great deals and offers for spontaneous trips with quick booking options. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 113,990 searches. data last updated 5 april 2024., have a look at some of the flights available from new zealand to scotland departing last-minute. users should double check the flight they book to ensure it matches the day, time, and destination they're looking for., one-way flights to scotland from new zealand, search for one-way flight options from new zealand to scotland. find affordable one-way fares based on user searches. compare prices and availability to plan your one-way journey according to your preferred dates and budget. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 113,990 searches. data last updated 5 april 2024., users in need of a one-way flight from new zealand to scotland can choose from these deals. users in need of a round-trip flight from new zealand to scotland instead should update the search form at the top of page., find flights from new zealand to scotland within your budget, customise your flight search to find flights from new zealand to scotland that fit within your specific budget. explore options based on user searches and filter the results based on your desired price range. find flights that match your budget for a cost-effective journey. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 113,990 searches. data last updated 5 april 2024..

$2,216 - $3,575

Auckland Intl Edinburgh Turnhouse

Auckland Intl

2 stops 45h 10m

Edinburgh Turnhouse

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3 stops 36h 55m

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Auckland Intl Glasgow Intl

3 stops 37h 10m

Glasgow Intl

3 stops 35h 20m

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2 stops 31h 25m

1 stop 28h 15m

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Reviews of airlines servicing Scotland

Get insights into the airlines that provide service to scotland. read reviews, discover amenities, and learn about the overall travel experience offered by airlines. use this information to make informed decisions when choosing an airline for your flight to scotland. reviews last updated 5 april 2024., peruse reviews from past customers who have flown with hainan airlines, turkish airlines and singapore airlines from new zealand to scotland to help guide your decision. you can also see how each airline stacks up in terms of entertainment options, comfort, food, crew/service, and boarding process..

Entertainment

Everything went smoothly, the staff was friendly, the special meal was correct. It was with Singapore Airlines for the first two legs (Penang to Singapore then Singapore to LAX). The final leg of LAX to BWI was with United.

Related info for your journey

Find useful and relevant information for your journey from new zealand to scotland. access travel guides, tips, and recommendations to enhance your travel experience. get information about local attractions, weather, transportation options, and more., can i find flights from new zealand to scotland for under $2,300 on cheapflights.

Yes, there are multiple flights from New Zealand to Scotland for under $2,300. The cheapest flight booked recently is on Hainan Airlines for just $2,216, but on average you can expect to pay $2,645.

Are there last-minute flights available from New Zealand to Scotland for under $4,700?

There are currently 4+ open flights from New Zealand to Scotland within the next 7 days for less than $4,700.

What are the cheapest airlines to fly from New Zealand to Scotland one-way?

The cheapest airlines for a one-way flight from New Zealand to Scotland are Hainan Airlines ($1,241), Qatar Airways ($1,391), and Lufthansa ($1,477).

What does AKL to EDI mean?

AKL and EDI are unique codes to identify airports used in the aviation industry. They are defined by IATA (International Air Transport Association) and are commonly called IATA codes. AKL to EDI refers to a flight route from Auckland Intl Airport to Edinburgh Turnhouse Airport. Glasgow Intl Airport (GLA), Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ), Inverness Airport (INV), Dundee Airport (DND), Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK) are other airports near this flight route and their unique identifiers/IATA codes.

Can I find deals for flights from New Zealand to Scotland that include extra baggage allowance?

The amount of baggage you can bring depends on the airline and the type of fare you've chosen. After entering your flight details, you'll be able to view the specific baggage policies for each deal in the search results. Keep in mind that certain deals may offer additional baggage allowance.

Can I find deals on flights from New Zealand to Scotland with specific airlines?

Yes, Cheapflights allows you to browse and filter flight deals by airline. After entering your origin and destination, use the available filters to view flights offered by airlines.

Can I find deals for flights from New Zealand to Scotland that include hotel bookings?

Yes. In addition to deals on New Zealand to Scotland flights, Cheapflights offers holiday packages that include both flights and hotel.

How can I find direct flights from New Zealand to Scotland?

After entering your origin and destination, apply the non-stop filter on the search result page to see available direct flights.

Can I find deals for business class flights from New Zealand to Scotland?

Yes. Cheapflights offers flight deals from New Zealand to Scotland by cabin class. In addition to browsing deals, you can also filter by cabin class on the search results page after making a search.

Can I find deals for flights from New Zealand to Scotland that allow pets onboard?

Many airlines do offer the option to travel with pets. After selecting a flight deal, you can find more information about the airline's pet policy on their official website or by contacting the airline directly. Please note that additional fees and restrictions may apply.

Can I find deals on last-minute flights from New Zealand to Scotland?

Yes, you can often find last-minute deals on New Zealand to Scotland flights on Cheapflights. However, these deals can vary and may not always be available. We recommend checking back frequently or signing up for price alerts for the most up-to-date deals.

How recently were the New Zealand to Scotland flight deals updated?

The New Zealand to Scotland flight deals you see on this page were last updated on 4/4.

Browse thousands of different options on Cheapflights for your next trip

Toggle through the tabs below to find thousands of options on cheapflights for your next trip., top 10 airlines flying from new zealand to scotland, discover the top 10 airlines that operate flights from new zealand to scotland. compare their services, reliability, and customer satisfaction ratings to choose the airline that best suits your travel preferences and needs. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 113,990 searches. data last updated 5 april 2024., popular flight searches, check out other popular destinations found by fellow travellers in 2024, search flights from new zealand to scotland by cabin class, find flights from new zealand to scotland, based on your preferred cabin class, be it economy, premium economy, business, or first class., book a flight to one of these trending destinations, user searches for flights to these destinations increased 20% or more in the past 90 days compared to other destinations, fly with cheapflights, find the best flight deals on cheapflights, where travellers can enjoy low prices and a wide availability of flights to their desired destinations., how does cheapflights help users find flights from new zealand to scotland.

When you search for this flight from New Zealand to Scotland, Cheapflights searches on 900+ travel sites to save you time finding great flight deals online. Additionally, we offer filter features so you can choose a preferred cabin class or airline, see different price ranges, and much more so you can book the flight for you.

Why should you use Cheapflights to find cheap flight tickets from New Zealand to Scotland?

It’s simple! Cheapflights, which is free to use for everyone, saves millions of users time and money every year by helping them find the cheapest and most suitable flights from New Zealand to Scotland.

Can Cheapflights find flights from New Zealand to Scotland with no change fees?

Yes! Cheapflights helps users easily find flights from New Zealand to Scotland with no change fees.

Can Cheapflights notify me if prices for flights from New Zealand to Scotland become cheaper?

Yes, Cheapflights has a feature called Price Alert, which notifies users when flight prices change. Track prices for your flight to Scotland from New Zealand today and book when prices fit your budget.

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Old Town Edinburgh

Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Edinburgh Castle to Royal Mile – discover Old Town Edinburgh, a destination also famous for its shopping.

City Centre Glasgow

Known for its fantastic nightlife and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in City Centre Glasgow. Check out top attractions like Buchanan Street and Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, and jump on the metro at Buchanan Street Station or St Enoch Station to see more of the city.

Edinburgh City Centre

If you're spending time in Edinburgh City Centre, check out sights like Edinburgh Castle or Royal Mile and hop on the metro to see more of the city at St Andrew Square Tram Stop or Princes Street Tram Stop.

Inverness City Centre

The fantastic nightlife and stunning river views are just a few highlights of Inverness City Centre. Make a stop by Inverness Castle or Victorian Market while you're exploring the area.

Travellers love New Town for its popular shops, and you can see more of Edinburgh by jumping on the metro at Princes Street Tram Stop or St Andrew Square Tram Stop. You might spend time checking out top sights like Assembly Rooms and George Street.

Our pick of the best Scotland Hotel Deals

Reviewed on 3 Apr. 2024

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Frequently asked questions

Discover the most popular places to visit in scotland, edinburgh castle.

This storied fortification has been at the heart of Scottish history for almost a thousand years, and remains the home of the glittering crown jewels.

Stretching through the middle of the Old Town, this ancient thoroughfare brings you on a walk through the heart of Edinburgh history and tradition.

Glasgow's multipurpose events venue attracts the biggest names in entertainment. Come to see a performance or simply to admire the building's design.

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9 things only New Zealand locals know

Oct 12, 2023 • 8 min read

Peak UV levels can be 40% higher in New Zealand than similar North American latitudes, so sunscreen is a must-have © nazar_ab / Getty Images

While I was born and bred here in  New Zealand – or Aotearoa, the country's Māori-language name – I’ve spent enough years away to understand how it’s a destination that can feel comfortingly familiar and completely strange to visitors all at once. 

The butter is bright, beta-carotene yellow. Pies are filled with meat. You usually go up to the counter to pay for your meal. Never, ever sit on a table – it’s a taboo that has spread from Māori to the wider population.  

But this diverse country of boiling mud pools, soaring mountains, subtropical beaches, rainforests and friendly people will make you feel – well, "sweet-as." (Yes, that means good.) Here are some things to know before going to New Zealand. 

1. New Zealand’s weather may be relatively mild – but it also has the potential to be wild

An archipelago in the Pacific, New Zealand is a long, skinny country moored in tempestuous oceans heavily influenced by Antarctica. Its landmass stretches between 34 and 47 degrees south – the rough equivalent of northern Morocco to southern France – and the climate is often compared to Britain’s. 

What does this all mean? The weather can turn bad quickly. It pays to pack for all seasons, with a hat and sunscreen being must-haves. New Zealand’s peak UV levels can be 40% higher than those in similar North American latitudes, thanks in part to its clean air. For some, a blistering burn can happen in minutes and will ruin your holiday for a good week or more. In summer, perhaps plan shadier activities, such as museums, for the peak hours of the day.  

2. It’s okay to dress down

Casualness rules in New Zealand, even in urban areas. Depending on what region you’re in, even a wedding might see some Kiwis in jeans, their cleanest bush shirt (a tough woolen shirt) and gumboots (rubber boots) or jandals (flip flops). This is unremarkable.

Something particularly disconcerting to travelers is New Zealanders’ penchant for bare feet. When you’re out of the main cities you’ll see tough-soled Kiwis hot-stepping over bubbling tarmac and strolling through the supermarket unshod. Feel free to pack casual clothes. 

3. What do you mean, there’s no bus?

Unbelievably, New Zealand’s public transport  was arguably far better in the mid-20th century. But with many tram and railways ripped up for the sake of roads, the country has become very car-dependent. 

With a population of only 5.2 million living on a landmass the size of Italy, car culture is proving difficult to shake. While cycling and public transport are making strong incursions, outside of Auckland there is nowhere near the density, quality, affordability and regularity of public transport you may be used to at home. Many New Zealand towns do not even have Uber or other rideshare apps. 

With that being said, the country is reasonably well set up for visitors. For example, there are regular shuttle services to popular tourist destinations, such as Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves – but it pays to plan your transport well ahead.

4. Biculturalism is at the heart of Aotearoa’s culture

Unlike many colonized nations, in 1840 the British Crown signed a founding treaty, the  Treaty of Waitangi  with Indigenous Māori, who have lived in New Zealand since at least the 1300s. Although colonization’s effect on Māori continues to spark debate and protest, the result is that modern New Zealand is a strongly bicultural nation. Te ao Māori (the Māori worldview) is an integral part of even everyday interactions. This is evident to visitors, who have countless Indigenous-led tours, eateries and experiences to choose from. 

To show respect, ask about local iwi (tribe) customs. As an example, don’t stand on the summit of maunga (mountains) including Ngāuruhoe (Mt Doom in the Lord of the Rings films) or Taranaki, if you go for a hike. As the head of an ancestor, mountain tops are regarded as tapu (sacred). New Zealand’s most famous son, Sir Edmund Hillary, may have said “we knocked the bastard off” when he and Tenzing Norgay climbed Everest in 1953, but modern travelers don’t have to. 

Many place names and road signs are also in te reo Māori (the Māori language). When it comes to speaking it, Kiwis will appreciate you trying to pronounce the words as accurately as possible. ("Wh," for example, is generally pronounced "F.")  An online pronunciation guide or podcast can help you with some of the more unfamiliar sounds; try Everyday Māori .

5. If you want to make local friends, ask about our birds 

New Zealanders absolutely love talking about their native birds and will immediately consider you a "good sort" (a kind and likable person) if you show interest. 

But prepare to settle in. From tūī, kererū (wood pigeons),  pīwakawaka (fantails) or whio (blue ducks), everyone has their favorite. Conservation organization Forest and Bird even runs a hotly contested Bird of the Year competition.

We love our birds because we understand how precious they are. Many are endangered, some critically so. New Zealand was a paradise of birds before people arrived around the 1300s, bringing with them rats, pigs, dogs, stoats, mice, cats, rabbits, weasels and possums. These have wreaked havoc and sent biodiversity  plummeting ; in the last 1,000 years, 40 indigenous species have become extinct. (Thank goodness early settlers did not introduce the mongoose to control the rabbit population, as was suggested in the 19th century.) 

The country is currently in the first 10 years of its Predator Free 2050 strategy, which aims to wipe out as many introduced mammals as possible by 2050. It is hugely ambitious and has resulted in a massive groundswell of support as everyday Kiwis exercise their bloodlust, setting rat traps in the backyard.

As a traveler, you'll encounter many tourism operators doing the same. You can learn more about these efforts as you zipline across regenerating forests at Rotorua Canopy Tours or stay at Maruia River Retreat , which is in the process of converting to a fully electric resort powered by renewable sources. Projects are even popping up where tourists can help check traplines, such as Tongariro River Rafting's Blue Duck Experience .

Predator-free bird sanctuaries abound in many areas, including the  Zealandia  sanctuary in Wellington, a sprawling and peaceful city oasis where you may be lucky enough to see wild kiwi on a guided night tour. 

6. ACC is a wonder – but not a replacement for travel insurance

One of the most humane things about New Zealand is its no-fault accident compensation scheme, ACC . Fall and break your leg skiing? Get a bit banged-up on a big night out? It doesn’t matter whose fault it is and that you’re a tourist; if it’s an accident, your medical care is free. 

Of course, you’ll need to have your own travel insurance. There are a lot of things – such as travel delays or extra accommodation needs – that ACC won’t cover if you get injured. 

7. New Zealand is generally safe, but… 

 New Zealand is a safe and welcoming country, but crime happens. For travelers, avoiding downtown clubbing areas after midnight is a good way to avoid most problems. Tourist vans can be a goldmine for thieves, and targeted especially when parked at freedom camping sites. 

Many travelers have had an unfortunate souvenir of their time in New Zealand: a local newspaper article about how they lost everything in a break-in, ruining their dream Kiwi holiday. If you need urgent help, the emergency number is 111. 

8. Pies are savory, not sweet

Kiwis love international cuisine, and you should be able to find something vaguely familiar to eat, especially in the main centers. But try a few quintessentially New Zealand treats, too. Other than the fun you’ll have browsing the supermarket and trying every block of Whittaker’s chocolate on the market, roadside eateries (called "tearooms") and cafes offer a range of snacks. 

One of the most filling and affordable small meals is a savory pie, sold just about everywhere. They’re golden, crispy pastry cases with fillings like butter chicken, mince (beef) and cheese, and steak and mushroom. Hint: The best pies are made in the local bakery. To get a winner, choose pies sold in plain white paper bags (not branded plastic) and bite into it straight from the bag. 

If you’re down south and spot cheese rolls on the menu, try them, too. Known as "Southland sushi," a magical alchemy occurs when white bread is spread with a mix of grated cheese, evaporated milk, onion and other flavorings, like mustard or garlic, then rolled, brushed with butter and toasted into an oozy, golden delight. 

"Slices" are also popular and similar to what Americans call "bars." A cross between a tart and a cookie with a topping or two, they’re baked or refrigerated in a square tin and cut into squares or rectangles. Popular slices are peppermint, caramel (millionaire bar), tan square (caramel shortcake) and the unbeatable ginger crunch. 

Lolly cake is another favorite: a coconut-malt, no-bake cookie studded with colorful marshmallow-like fruit puffs.

9. Driving is very different in New Zealand

Unlike the wide, multi-lane expressways of other countries, many of our major roads are only dual carriageway or a two-way divided highway. They’re often winding and hilly, with the added obstacles of construction and "slips" (a Kiwi word for landslides).

Before you head off, check NZTA for potential road closures. Take care not to plan an overly ambitious road-trip itinerary , such as driving from Auckland to Cape Reinga in a day with stops for activities along the way. That might look like five-and-a-half hours on Google Maps, but it’ll probably be slow and exhausting. There’s no such thing as setting the cruise control and chilling out, letting drivers pass on the lanes around you.

You'll need your wits about you, particularly if it is your first experience driving on the left. When everyone’s driving in single file, people get frustrated. Kiwi drivers can follow too close for comfort, pass aggressively and have a particular disdain for camper vans. 

If you’re feeling nervous and notice a long line of cars behind you, you’ll be more relaxed if you regularly pull over where it’s safe and let the line of impatient locals pass. At least they’ll give a friendly toot of thanks.

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The distance from the middle of New Zealand to the middle of Scotland is:

11,389 miles / 18 329 km flying, map of distance from new zealand to scotland, more trip calculations.

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Distance from New Zealand to Scotland

The total straight line flight distance from New Zealand to Scotland is 11,389 miles .

This is equivalent to 18 329 kilometers or 9,897 nautical miles .

Your trip begins in New Zealand. It ends in Scotland.

Your flight direction from New Zealand to Scotland is North (-6 degrees from North).

The distance calculator helps you figure out how far it is to get from New Zealand to Scotland. It does this by computing the straight line flying distance ("as the crow flies") and the driving distance if the route is drivable. It uses all this data to compute the total travel mileage.

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Travelling around New Zealand – Your Aotearoa transportation guide

New Zealand is widely recognised as being a friendly, safe country; because of this, there are many options available to travellers looking to make their way around.

Cars, campervans , tours, buses and trains are all common forms of transport within the country – and each has its own benefits and shortcomings.

Join us as we compare different ways of travelling around New Zealand, to establish which modes of transport might best suit your needs.

If you want to know more about Aotearoa, our extensive 101 New Zealand travel FAQs for first-time visitors will surely fill you in. So get ready and start packing your bags for unforgettable journeys that lie ahead of this beautiful country.

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Table of contents

Travelling Around New Zealand: Transport Tips To Help You Get Around Aotearoa

How can i get around new zealand.

Travelling by car in New Zealand is very common. In fact, most New Zealanders own their own cars, using them frequently, with many starting to transition to electric, PHEV, and hybrid cars .

Travel by car is also a great option for many tourists.

Travelling by Car

• Driving in New Zealand is safe and fairly easy – we have clear road rules and an orderly manner on the road. 
• You’ll be able to stop at any point on your trip to check out points of interest. This is especially handy if you’re travelling with young children. On that note, be prepared with a bunch of fun road trip games if you have little ones in tow.

Disadvantages

• Having a car will limit your ability to fly from place to place (particularly if you choose to buy a car).
• If you’re travelling in a small group (or as a solo traveller), you won’t have many people to share the cost of the car and fuel with – and petrol is a significant cost in New Zealand.
• You’ll need to have a good understanding of the stops you want to make, as without a guide, you might drive right past them.

If you’ve got time on your hands (and the budget), the flexibility and ease of a car makes it one of the best ways to get around.

Should I Buy a Car?

For long-term visitors to New Zealand, purchasing a car is likely to be a great solution to transport needs.

• Purchasing a car be more affordable than a rental in the long-term.
• You’ll be responsible for any issues should the car break down (and if you end up backpacking in New Zealand and buy an affordable ‘backpacker’ car, that’s quite possible).
• You will need to sell your car when you’re due to leave – and you may well have to do so at a loss.

Should I Rent a Car?

By comparison, car rentals are the most common transport solution for short-term travellers visiting New Zealand (that favour the flexibility that cars offer).

• You’ll have support on the phone right away should you encounter any issues. 
• If you have a break down, repairs/a replacement will be organised by the car rental company.
• You will have the use of a late-model car that is likely to be safe and comfortable to drive.
• You are able to drop your rental off at one airport , before flying to your next destination and picking up your next rental car.
• If you’re travelling for an extended period, the price of a rental can add up.
• You’ll likely be charged additional fees if you want to pick your rental up from one location and drop it off in another.

What About Car Relocation?

If you’re looking to keep your costs low, are happy to travel at speed, and have flexibility on dates, a car relocation can be a fantastic way to save money whilst getting around New Zealand.

• Car relocation is free or incredibly low-cost (and often comes with a tank of fuel and ferry crossing , if required, too) – won’t that be amazing for your budget?!
• You’ll be held to a fairly tight timeframe.  As a general rule, free relocations are over a short period, whereas paid (but cheap) relocations often give you a little more time.
• You may not be able to secure a car relocation deal during your travel dates, as they do not run all the time.

If you’re looking to relocate a car, we first recommend you check out Transfercar as they work with a number of NZ rental operators. 

You can also apply for a rental relocation directly through these operators: Thrifty, Ace Rental Cars, Omega Rental Cars, Go Rentals and Juicy Rentals.

What Do I Need to Know About Travelling with Children in a Car in New Zealand?

There are a few things you’ll need to know…

All children under 7 years of age need to be seated in an approved child restraint whilst travelling in a motor vehicle (however, buses are exempt). 

It is important to check that your car seat meets our minimum safety requirements (which fortunately includes approved seats from New Zealand/Australia, Europe and the United States).

If you’re unsure of the requirements, we suggest you continue your research , before picking up a lightweight car seat that’s perfect for your next adventure.

Travelling by Campervan

Whether you call it a motorhome, campervan or RV, hiring one of these vehicles can be a wonderful way to combine transport and accommodation.

Plus, Kiwis love camping , so you’ll fit right in!

Whether you choose to rent a campervan or buy one, many enjoy the convenience of combining transport and accommodation in one.

Either way, you’ll want to ensure you have a number of these essential motorhome accessories to make your trip enjoyable.

• You’ll have the flexibility of a car with the added bonus of travelling with a fully-stocked fridge/pantry.
• You won’t need to unpack at each and every stop.
• Save money on accommodation by freedom camping along the way.
• Parking in larger towns can be challenging. 
• Motorhomes/RVs are expensive to rent (and even more expensive should you have an accident without an excess waiver on your insurance).
• Some people will not feel comfortable driving such a large vehicle (though it is actually easier than you might expect).

Keen to hire a motorhome in New Zealand?

You’ll want to read this!

Save Serious Money on your RV Hire with Motorhome Relocation

If you’ve got flexibility in your schedule and are happy to see the countryside fairly quickly, a free (or heavily discounted) motorhome relocation could be perfect for you.

Again, we recommend checking out Transfercar to see what’s available across the different RV rental companies. 

Likewise, these companies offer direct relocation – Spaceships , Juicy Rentals , Apollo , Wilderness and  Hippie .

Travelling New Zealand by Group Tour

If you’d enjoy joining a group of like-minded travellers, whilst experts get you from A to B, an organised small-group tour could be the perfect way to see Aotearoa.

• You’ll be led by a fun, knowledgeable guide to all of the must-see spots in New Zealand. 
• You’ll also have a ready-made group of friends, keen to explore alongside you. 
• Accommodation is included, and thanks to big-group buying power, you’ll likely pay less for the total tour than you would have for standalone bus tickets and accommodation.
• Increased safety, security and support for independent travellers (in particular, solo female travellers ).
• Take the stress out of organising your own itinerary.
• Set routes can sometimes mean you don’t get as much time in each individual spot as you’d like.
• The initial financial outlay can be significant.
• Departure dates might not be ideally suited to your travel plans.

Tour Companies

We recommend checking out Kiwi Experience (who offer a discount through NZTT), Haka Tours (who also offer a 10% discount) and Stray for wonderful small-group tours.

Travelling by Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

For many, hop-on hop-off bus tours are the ideal solution. They give more flexibility than a standard tour, whilst offering social and cost-saving benefits that are a struggle when travelling solo.

Could this be your preferred way of travelling in New Zealand?

• You’ll have more flexibility than you would on a set tour without the cost of hiring/buying a car by yourself. 
• You’ll learn from your guide and enjoy local commentary. 
• If travelling with Stray , you’ll have guaranteed accommodation reservations right throughout the year, even in peak season.
• Because people hop-on and hop-off at different times, you may not get to know one guide or group of people very well. 
• You’ll also be limited in your ability to stop whenever/wherever you like whilst travelling – in this regard, nothing compares to driving your own car or campervan. They do make a great effort to include worthwhile stops though.

Travelling in New Zealand is like a road-trip experience, we’re pretty flexible. We make stops for the bathroom, food, supermarkets , interesting sights and activities along the way. Stray Adventure Travel

If you’re looking for flexibility whilst travelling the country but don’t want the expense and hassle of travelling solo, a Kiwi Experience (again, you’ll save on all bus passes through us ) or Stray hop-on hop-off bus tour is just the ticket!

Travelling by Public Bus/Coach

One of the most cost-effective ways to travel in New Zealand, public buses and coaches are a reliable way to move about the country.

• Catching normal buses will help keep costs down if you’re travelling solo/as a couple.
• Intercity coach services are more affordable than tourist-focused hop-on/hop-off buses.
• Modern coaches and comfortable and include useful luxuries, such as charging points.
• Normal intercity buses aren’t as social as hop-on/hop-off buses our tours, so your chances of meeting other travellers may not be as great.
• You won’t have flexibility in your route or the ability to make small stops at points of your choice.

Travelling by Plane

Without a doubt, plane travel is the fastest way to move between different regions in New Zealand.

• You’ll obviously move through the country very quickly, giving you more time for fun activities and exploration.
• Flights can be expensive, especially if booked at the last minute. Keep an eye on grabaseat to score yourself a deal, or try to book in advance through AirNZ or Jetstar when possible. 
• When you land, you’ll have to rent a car or use a bus service – this isn’t as convenient or affordable if you’ve already got a car elsewhere.

Travelling by Train

Though New Zealand does not have the train network that many other countries enjoy, trains are a great way to travel between some parts of the country.

• Sit back and relax with no need to navigate or drive yourself. Instead, use the time to enjoy stunning scenery, plan the next part of your New Zealand travels or just to enjoy a book or Netflix movie.
• Passenger train transport in Aotearoa is limited with few services running.
• Our trains are relatively slow too – you won’t find any bullet trains here.
• Tourist-centred trains (like the incredible TranzAlpine ) are fairly expensive as they are an attraction in themselves.

Getting Licensed to Drive in New Zealand

If you decide to drive yourself, either of all of part of your visit to New Zealand, you’ll need to ensure that you’re correctly licensed.

What Licence Do I Need to Drive in New Zealand?

Whilst travelling as a tourist in New Zealand, there are three different drivers licence options.

• Use your existing licence (for English licences).  Your existing drivers licence (from your home country) is suitable for use in New Zealand. If it’s not issued in English, you will need to carry a translation with you at all times .  Suitable for up to 12 months from your date of entry.
• Get a IDP (International Driving Permit) to accompany your non-English licence.   Your IDP should be issued before you arrive in New Zealand .  This document serves as an official translation for your drivers licence (in and out of a number of languages) and must be carried alongside your home licence to be valid.  Suitable for up to 12 months from your date of entry.
• Convert to a New Zealand drivers licence.   The least likely option for visitors, this is really only worth considering if you plan to stay in the country for longer than a year.  If that’s on the cards for you, you’ll convert your licence with a registered provider in New Zealand and be able to drive without needing a passport or IDP from abroad.  Valid indefinitely .

Do I Need an International Driving Permit for NZ?

An IDP is required if your home licence is not in English.

If you have an English-language licence issued overseas, you don’t need an IDP.

Learn more about IDPs well before you depart.

Once you’ve ensured you have the right kind of licence to drive in New Zealand, you’ll want to figure out how exactly you’ll get around.

Is Driving in New Zealand Difficult?

Driving in New Zealand is not difficult; we have similar road rules and mannerisms to many other western countries, including Australia, the United States and the UK. 

In New Zealand we drive on the left-hand side of the road at all times and have speed limits that range from 50km/h to 110km/h.  If you are driving slowly on the open road, it is wise to pull over to let faster traffic past.  When travelling on the motorway (highway), keep to the left unless passing. 

Finally, we use  roundabouts  frequently in New Zealand so it’s worth learning about how to use them safely and efficiently – as a general rule though, you give way to your right.

Basic Road Rules in Aotearoa – Important New Zealand Travel Tips

• Drive on the left hand side of the road at all times.
• Give way to your right .  This is especially true at roundabouts; look to your right – if there is a car about to move or already doing so, wait for a gap.  Assuming the path to your right is clear, you’re free to go.
• If turning onto a side road, cars doing so without crossing traffic have the right of way .  Should you need to cross traffic, you’ll need to wait until you have a suitable gap to do so.
• Whilst on the motorway or a multi-lane road, stay on the left, unless passing .  If you do wish to pass another car, move into the right-hand lane, overtake and then return to the left.
• If you’re driving a large/slow vehicle, use the slow vehicle lanes and/or pull over on the open road to allow others to pass.
• Observe the sign-posted speed limits .  As a general rule, travel is 50km/hour around residential areas and 100km/h on motorways and open roads. There is a slight tolerance but aim to travel at the posted speed.
• Be mindful of those on bikes .  Give them a wide berth, especially on the open road or when driving on a road that has parked cars.

Founder of one of Aotearoa's most popular and helpful Facebook travel planning groups, Sarah shares reliable information and discounts around New Zealand. As an experienced tour guide, travel writer and airline reservations consultant, she enjoys bringing you the best of New Zealand.

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Six of Europe’s best sleeper trains

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Europe’s sleeper train network has woken up. Photo / Getty Images

Fuelled by a demand for more sustainable alternatives to short-haul flights , Europe’s sleeper-train network is having a revival, writes Frances Carruthers.

Perhaps it’s the novelty of being able to drift off in one city and wake up in an entirely different one – and often in a different country, too.

Or maybe it’s the fact that a sleeper train, while slower and often more expensive than flying, allows you to really experience the distance you’re travelling, gazing out at the scenery and watching how it changes as you glide past.

Whatever it is, there’s a certain kind of magic to travelling by overnight train , which is perhaps why this retro mode of transport is having a renaissance across Europe . From budget to blowout, historic to brand-new, here are six of the best.

The Trondheim to Bodo train, Norway

Nicknamed the ‘Arctic Circle Express’, this epic 729km journey is Norway’s longest continuous rail route. It slices its way up the slender country’s spine, starting from the fjord-side city of Trondheim and ending in the Arctic Circle outpost of Bodo – the newlyappointed European Capital of Culture 2024 .

Departing just after 11pm, the 10-hour trip takes you through rolling hills and fjords, alongside historic World War II sites and colourful fishing towns before hurtling into the barren, rocky expanses of the Saltfjellet mountain range. At around 6.30am, it crosses the Arctic Circle – as announced by the train’s loudspeaker – where snow lingers even through the summer, and you might spot reindeer if you’re lucky.

It’s worth going around midsummer to experience the region’s legendary midnight sun, although be prepared to sacrifice some sleep to take in the views. Tickets can be booked through SJ Nord, with three options (standard seats, reclining seats and sleeper compartments), the cheapest of which starts at around $80.

Paris to Rome: Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Since its inaugural trip between Paris and Istanbul in 1919, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express has become the epitome of luxury in long-distance rail travel. Today, its century-old carriages have been meticulously restored, allowing passengers to be teleported back to the glitz and glamour of the Roaring Twenties. The route between Paris and Rome, which was relaunched in 2022 following a 14-year hiatus, is a fittingly romantic way to travel between two of Europe’s most romantic cities.

Departing Paris at 5pm, passengers can enjoy an opulent four-course meal paired with sommelier-selected wines, before heading to the bar for a cocktail alongside the sound of the grand piano.

When it’s time for bed, sleeper options range from Twin Cabins with banquettes (starting at $7330 per person) to a Grand Suite, which includes a 24-hour butler and private dining in your cabin (starting at $21,090 per person). In the morning, there’s a sumptuous breakfast in bed, before the train arrives in Rome at 1pm.

London to Scotland: Caledonian Sleeper

The joy of the Caledonian Sleeper is in its contrasts: you’ll fall asleep just after leaving the bright lights of London behind, and awaken a few hours later to the brooding, atmospheric landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.

This renowned overnight journey, which has a history going back more than 150 years, had a $300 million upgrade in 2019, with the addition of hotel-style rooms with double beds and ensuite bathrooms.

There are two routes to choose from: the Lowlander, linking London with Glasgow and Edinburgh, and the Highlander, travelling between the English capital and Aberdeen, Inverness and Fort William. Both are beautiful, but the latter packs in more dramatic highland scenery.

The final destination, Fort William, is located at the foot of Ben Nevis, so it’s the perfect base from which to explore Scotland’s highest peak.

Lastly, don’t miss out on the dining car – which serves up traditional Scottish dishes including haggis, ‘neeps and tatties’ and of course, a fine selection of Scotch whiskies. Fares start from around $115 for a seat, $457 for a Classic Cabin, $560 for a Club en-suite and $880 for a Double en-suite.

Zurich to Zagreb: OBB or SBB Railways

Passing through five countries ( Switzerland , Liechtenstein, Austria, Slovenia and Croatia) and lasting 15 hours, the Zurich to Zagreb sleeper takes you on an epic voyage through Central Europe.

The train departs Zurich at 7.40pm, and you’ll spend the next few hours gazing at mountain scenery plucked straight from a postcard as you glide through northern Switzerland. A few hours later you’ll cross the border into the tiny alpine principality of Liechtenstein, before the train begins its long stint through western Austria and into Slovenia.

As darkness falls, retreat for some shut-eye in your couchette (a basic bunk in a four- or six-bed compartment) or sleeping car (a one, two or three-bed compartment with proper beds and washbasins). Just be sure to wake up before 8am, as the last section between Ljubljana and Zagreb, when the train snakes alongside the Sava River, is one of the most picturesque.

The service is run by Austrian operator OBB Nightjet, with fares starting at around $88 for a bed in a couchette, and $123 for a bed in a sleeper compartment.

Brussels to Berlin: European Sleeper

Founded by two rail buffs in 2021, Belgian-Dutch start-up European Sleeper is on a mission to revive the continent’s overnight train network – and its first point of call was to introduce a route linking Brussels and Berlin.

The 11-hour trip is a fun and low-cost way to travel between two of Europe’s most beguiling capitals, which haven’t had a direct night train connection in over a decade. There are two to three departures per week, leaving Brussels at 7.22pm and arriving in Berlin at 6.18am.

For budget travellers , there are seats (starting at around $105), but for around $20 extra you might as well get a couchette – a fold-out bunk in a four- or six-berth compartment. Or, opt for a bed in a three-person sleeper compartment (starting at around $265) which includes proper mattresses, plush duvets and in-cabin washbasins.

The train itself is certainly charming, if in a preloved way: its 1950s stainless steel carriages have been refurbished with narrow, yet comfortable, bunks, while old Slovak railway posters adorn the walls.

Rome to the Dolomites: Espresso Cadore

For a dazzling journey through snow-covered peaks, look no further than this vintage sleeper train.

Launched in December 2023, the Espresso Cadore leaves the Eternal City at 9.15pm every Friday night between December and February, arriving at the Unesco-listed ski town of Cortina d’Ampezzo just in time for breakfast. It’s worth noting that the last hour of the 9.5-hour trip, between Calalzo di Cadore and Cortina d’Ampezzo, is a bus transfer, which is included in the price of the ticket.

Aside from the joy of seeing the sunrise over the Dolomites as you sip your morning coffee, the biggest draw of this unique journey is the train itself.

Decommissioned carriages from the 1980s and 1990s have been given a retro revamp, with wooden panelling, upholstered leather seats and plush carpets. The hotlyanticipated service was established as part of an initiative by Italy’s national rail network, Trenitalia , to encourage visitors to travel more sustainably.

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Wealthy Investors Want Americans to Play More Golf in New Zealand

(Bloomberg) -- The golf courses are gorgeous. But they’re very far away.

That’s the challenge facing the wealthy investors who are pumping money into New Zealand’s golf industry in a bid to draw Americans and other international travelers to the bottom of the world. On the one hand are world-class courses tucked between snow-capped mountains and glacier-fed lakes high atop the Pacific Ocean. On the other hand? The flight from New York takes about 18 hours . 

But in an era of  YOLO travel , developers are betting that New Zealand can grab more of the roughly $24 billion global golf tourism market, which is  expected to grow an estimated 60% over the next 10 years.

California financier Ric Kayne is backing his fourth golf project in the country this year, while former Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. Chief Executive Jonathan Lu announced plans to build a championship course on a beachside farm west of Auckland. Construction is also in progress on two exclusive courses in the South Island resort towns of Wanaka and Arrowtown, near Queenstown —  favorite locations for billionaires seeking a  sanctuary far away from the world’s turmoil .

Golfers tend to be relatively wealthy and, as the thinking goes, groups of North Americans who travel to play courses in Ireland and Scotland, or Brits and Europeans who go to the US, might be open to a longer journey for a bucket list trip. Closer to home, the New Zealand projects are looking to compete against courses in Australia and Vietnam for well-heeled Asian tourists. 

“New Zealand has great golf, the scenery is out of this world and so is the food and wine,” said Jim Rohrstaff, an American who became Kayne’s business partner on the golf projects after meeting him at the Vintage Club in Indian Wells, California. “It adds up to a complete package — that’s why we're bullish on it and why we're building more.”

With a population of slightly more than 5 million, New Zealand ranks high globally in the number of golf courses per capita, alongside Scotland and Ireland. Its dune-dotted coastline and rolling pastures are well-suited for the sport, and the year-round temperate weather is a draw, particularly for Australians and Asian travelers who want to escape sweltering heat.

Read more:  Scotland's Centuries-Old Golf Courses Are Crumbling Into the Sea

Still, New Zealand is a relative newcomer to high-end golf. Historically, it was dominated by modest, local clubs. That started to change about 20 years ago in large part because of the late Tiger Management founder Julian Robertson, who was pivotal in spreading the word on Wall Street about golf in the nation.

The hedge fund billionaire, who  fell in love with New Zealand after a trip in the 1970s and amassed substantial assets there before he died in 2022, developed two high-end golf courses,  Kauri Cliffs and the  Tom Doak-designed Cape Kidnappers, in the early 2000s, each featuring a luxury lodge.

“He had everyone scratching their heads wondering what an astute investor like him was doing building golf courses in New Zealand,” said John Darby, a property developer and golf architect who’s been involved in many of the nation’s top courses including the Jack’s Point course in Queenstown. 

Among the frequent visitors to the courses developed by Robertson was Kayne, the co-founder of Kayne Anderson Capital Advisors. He eventually called Darby “out of the blue looking for a piece of land for a golf course.”

That project became  Tara Iti , a members-only course north of Auckland that opened in 2015 and is ranked by Golf Digest as one of the best in the world outside the US. They quickly followed that with two more courses at the nearby  Te Arai Links .

Rohrstaff and Kayne’s current project is a redevelopment of  The Hills  near Queenstown, a private course ringed by mountains and overlooking Lake Hayes. They are undertaking it alongside the family of New Zealand jeweler Michael Hill. Lu’s course is expected to open in 2027 on a 500-hectare (1,235-acre) farm in Muriwai that he bought in 2020.

Read more: Golf’s Next Paradise Is Being Built in Swamps Near Palm Beach

Despite the abundance of viable locations, the business of developing courses in New Zealand isn’t easy. It requires deep pockets — Rohrstaff estimates the two Te Arai Links projects cost a combined NZ$200 million ($121 million) — while the regulatory approval process can take many years. Then there’s opposition from environmental groups and the nation’s ban on most foreigners buying property.

Darby is currently building a course at Glendhu Bay on Lake Wanaka, a few miles from the site where billionaire investor Peter Thiel hopes to build a luxury lodge . The project was in the works for 20 years before a shovel hit the ground.

Repeat Visitors

New Zealand’s golf tourism industry grew in value to NZ$425 million in 2019, three times what it was in 2012, partly by targeting country clubs in US cities with direct flights to the country. They also appealed to Australians to make the short trip across the Tasman Sea.

That momentum was derailed by the pandemic, and now, as travelers once again jet across the globe, the competition for golf tourism dollars is even more intense. Golfers tend to spend more and stay longer than average leisure travelers, according to David Griffiths, events manager at International Golf Travel Market. And other countries have taken notice, as courses pop up in locations such as Kenya, Vietnam, Bermuda and Barbados.

New Zealand is 5,500 miles from Tokyo, 6,500 miles from Los Angeles and 11,400 miles from London and the geographical isolation means most people see it as a once in a lifetime destination. With that in mind, the industry has deliberately shied away from the so-called “buddies trip” model that is popular with Americans who visit Ireland and Scotland — not to mention Arizona, South Carolina and Florida — for shorter trips where the mostly male groups don’t do much else besides golf, according to Ryan Brandeburg, an American golf pro who runs a consulting business behind the course that Lu is developing and another near Queenstown.

Brandeburg first traveled New Zealand in 2009 to oversee Robertson’s courses. On a flight on his first day in the country, he happened to sit next to then Prime Minister John Key, who invited him to play a round. He was subsequently tapped to help develop a golf tourism strategy and has been involved ever since. 

These days, he said, it’s pivotal to boost development so that there are “clusters” of courses near Queenstown and Auckland that help golf tourists justify the long trip. He also wants them to bring the whole family.

“We want couples traveling together, families traveling together,” Brandeburg said. “Golf is still the hero of their visit, but if they played four or five rounds of golf in 15 days, we would be very happy because all those other days they're spending money doing other things.”

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• Travel Deals

Qantas launches mega sale on airfares to New Zealand

A major airline has slashed airfares to a holiday destination that more than a million Australian holiday makers flock to every year.

Scoot launch $355 Aussie fares to Europe

Day you don’t want to fly this Easter

Major shake-up for Qantas flyers

Qantas’ newest mega deal has taken flight, with more than 100,000 discounted seats to New Zealand on offer.

Australians looking for a getaway to Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown or Wellington can now purchase flights from $549 return from most Australian capital cities.

The discounted airfares, which include checked baggage, complimentary food and beverages and seat selection, are available for a range of different travel periods between April 2024 and February 2025.

Economy sale fares (return)

Sydney/Brisbane/Melbourne – Auckland $549

Sydney/Brisbane/Melbourne – Christchurch $569

Brisbane – Wellington $569

Melbourne – Queenstown $579

Adelaide – Auckland $669

Adelaide – Queenstown $769

Perth – Christchurch $1,079

Perth – Wellington $1,099

Business sale fares (return)

Sydney – Auckland $1,199

Brisbane – Christchurch $1,199

Melbourne – Wellington $1,199

New Zealand has long been a popular holiday destination, with 1.26 million Australians travelling to the idyllic location in 2023, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

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The mega deal is the airline’s tenth sale this year and comes after Qantas has already discounted more than two million seats across the nine sales.

The sale fares are available until 11.59pm (AEST) April 11 2024 or unless sold out prior.

Holiday-makers can visit qantas.com for more details.

Budget airline Scoot is selling flights from Australia to Europe from just $355, as well as other popular overseas destinations.

If you were planning on flying from Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane on these dates, you may want to reconsider your plans.

National airline Qantas is expected to reveal a major change to how customers book flights.

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• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Bill tabled in Scotland could legalise assisted dying for terminally ill adults

If law is passed Scotland would become first part of UK to offer terminally ill people assistance to end their lives

• UK politics – latest updates

Scotland could become the first part of the UK to offer terminally ill adults assistance to end their lives if Holyrood approves a new bill.

The Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur, who tabled the assisted dying for terminally ill adults (Scotland) bill on Thursday, said “politicians are catching up with where the public has been for some time” as extensive polling for Dignity in Dying Scotland found 78% of respondents supported legalisation.

Publishing the bill in the Scottish parliament, McArthur said: “Our current laws on assisted dying are failing too many terminally ill Scots at the end of life. Too often, and despite the best efforts of palliative care, dying people are facing traumatic deaths that harm both them and those they leave behind.

“This bill contains robust safeguards, similar to those which have been safely and successfully introduced in countries such as Australia, New Zealand and the United State, where they continue to enjoy strong public support.”

McArthur’s bill will be the third attempt to introduce assisted dying legislation at Holyrood and is tightly drafted to assuage concerns that it will place pressure on vulnerable people who fear being a burden on their loved ones. It is still expected to be fiercely opposed by disability rights and faith groups.

It is only open to adults who have been resident in Scotland for at least a year and who have been assessed by two independent medical practitioners to be terminally ill, of sound mind and under no pressure. Applicants must administer the life-ending drugs themselves.

The bill is expected to be scrutinised by Holyrood’s health committee and could potentially be voted on by MSPs at its first stage later this year.

Addressing the depth of concerns for human rights on both sides of the debate, Fraser Sutherland of the Humanist Society Scotland, which has supported the development of the bill, pointed out that the proposed law only applies to terminally ill people, so disabled people would not be eligible.

“At this point, the ‘slippery slope’ argument is often used to suggest it is only a matter of time before the law is expanded. But, contrary to certain media narratives, we have seen many assisted dying laws similar to Liam McArthur’s bill (ie those that apply only to terminally ill people) introduced without any subsequent expansion”.

But a letter sent to MSPs from a coalition of disability rights groups, including the Better Way Campaign, Disability Equality Scotland and Inclusion Scotland, urges MSPs to vote against the bill.

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“In an era when long-term conditions are lasting for longer, and health and social care are becoming increasingly expensive, vulnerable groups are specifically threatened by the future consequences of assisted dying legislation. It is not difficult to imagine that an individual’s judgment that ‘my life is not worth living’ can morph into others’ perception that ‘his or her life is not worth living’.”

Dr Gillian Wright, a former palliative medicine registrar now representing Our Duty of Care, an alliance of healthcare professionals opposing assisted dying, said: “The primary danger of assisted suicide is that individual lives are devalued by society because they are ill, disabled, confused or that their contribution to society is perceived to be minimal. The secondary danger is that terminally ill and disabled individuals may begin to devalue themselves because of the burden that they perceive they are to society.”

• Assisted dying
• Liberal Democrats
• Scottish politics
• Death and dying
• Health policy

More on this story

Assisted dying: what are the laws in UK and what changes are proposed?

UK membership of Dignitas soars by 24% as assisted dying in Scotland moves closer

Today in Focus The assisted dying debate: Paola’s story

Jersey to debate allowing assisted dying for terminally ill

Woman who ended life at Dignitas leaves video urging change in UK assisted dying laws

‘We need to talk about choice’: woman who ended life at Dignitas urges change to UK law

Macron announces assisted dying bill to go before French parliament in May

UK government law on assisted dying a mess, says Esther Rantzen

‘We need more compassion’: UK families call for assisted dying reform

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UK weather: Hottest day of the year forecast - and warning of 70mph winds as Storm Kathleen moves in

A mixed picture is forecast for Saturday as parts of East Anglia and southeast England could top Portugal and bask in temperatures in the low 20s.

Friday 5 April 2024 13:38, UK

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The UK is expected to record its hottest day of the year so far this weekend - with some towns and cities set to bask in balmy temperatures.

The Met Office said temperatures could reach up to 22C (72F) in East Anglia on Saturday as unseasonably warm air brings sunny spells to parts of the country.

A mixed picture is forecast for tomorrow - with the forecaster earlier updating its warnings to say stronger gusts are more likely this weekend as Storm Kathleen batters western parts.

Gusts of 50mph are widely expected and exposed places could see 60mph to 70mph.

Yellow weather warnings have been issued for wind in areas - covering Cornwall, much of Wales, parts of Lancashire and Cumbria, and up into central Scotland and Northern Ireland from 8am to 10pm on Saturday.

Met Office spokesman Stephen Dixon said: "Away from that warning area on Saturday, we could get up to 22C in isolated spots of East Anglia which would make it the hottest day of the year so far in that area.

"One of the residual effects from Storm Kathleen is helping to draw up that warmer air as well.

"It's not unusual for these storm systems to bring warmer air with them."

Temperatures in the low twenties are also expected in southeast England.

The warm conditions are due to the storm system and winds from the southwest bringing above-average temperatures to areas.

The highest temperature of the year so far was 19.9C (68F), recorded at the end of January at Achfary in northwest Scotland.

The Met Office's update on yellow wind warnings said: "Stronger gusts are now expected across some parts of the warning area, with likelihood also increased."

It said there was a risk of "injuries and danger to life" from large waves and beach material being thrown on to sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.

It added road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible.

There could also be power cuts and mobile phone coverage may also be affected.

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Mr Dixon added: "The outlook for Sunday for much of the UK is for showery conditions to continue particularly in northern and western areas again.

"It will generally feel a touch drier the further south-east you go through the day on Sunday as Kathleen gradually moves away northwards."

He added that the start of next week would see unsettled weather conditions with "rain continuing for many".

#StormKathleen has been named by @MetEireann and is forecast to bring strong winds to Ireland and much of the UK on Saturday Stay #weatheraware pic.twitter.com/dcDmifdqjL — Met Office (@metoffice) April 4, 2024

Storm Kathleen has been named by Ireland's national forecaster Met Eireann, which has issued its own warnings covering the whole country and urged the public to be "vigilant".

Cork, Kerry, Galway and Mayo are set to be the worst affected.

They are under an amber alert, meaning "very difficult travel conditions" and potential fallen trees, power outages and coastal flooding.

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Storm Kathleen is the 11th named storm in eight months, and this only the second time in a UK storm season that the letter K has been reached in the alphabet.

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