Travel to Vietnam from New Zealand: Your Complete Travel Guide

From breathtaking natural landscapes and vibrant cities to world-class cuisine and luxury beach resorts, Vietnam has become an increasingly popular destination for travelers from New Zealand. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore more, this guide covers everything you need to know before traveling to Vietnam.

Visa Requirements for New Zealand Citizens

New Zealand passport holders are required to obtain a visa before entering Vietnam.

The easiest option is the Vietnam e-Visa, which can be applied for online through the official Vietnam Immigration website. Most applications are processed within 7–10 working days.

Before applying, make sure:

Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.
Your passport has at least two blank pages.
All information matches your passport exactly.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Vietnam is a year-round destination, with each region offering something different throughout the seasons.

March to May brings warm temperatures, blue skies, and excellent weather for sightseeing.
September to November offers cooler days in the north, comfortable temperatures in central Vietnam, and sunshine across much of the south.

If you’re looking for a beach holiday, destinations such as Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, and Da Nang are wonderful throughout much of the year.

Flights from New Zealand to Vietnam

There are no direct flights from New Zealand to Vietnam, but traveling is easy with one-stop connections from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

Popular airlines include Singapore Airlines, Air New Zealand, Qantas, Malaysia Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Vietnam Airlines, with connections through Singapore, Sydney, Melbourne, Kuala Lumpur, or Hong Kong.

Most journeys take 13–17 hours, depending on your departure city and transit time.

Travel Tip: Booking your flights two to three months in advance often provides the best fares.

Places You Shouldn’t Miss

Vietnam offers an unforgettable mix of culture, nature, and luxury experiences.

Hanoi & Ha Long Bay – Explore Vietnam’s historic capital before cruising through the spectacular limestone islands of Ha Long Bay.
Hoi An & Da Nang – Discover lantern-lit streets, beautiful beaches, and world-class resorts.
Ninh Binh – Cruise through peaceful waterways surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains.
Ho Chi Minh City – Experience vibrant markets, rooftop bars, colonial architecture, and an exciting culinary scene.
Phu Quoc – Relax on white-sand beaches and enjoy some of Vietnam’s finest luxury resorts.

Where to Stay

Vietnam offers everything from charming boutique hotels to award-winning beachfront resorts.

Whether you’re looking for a heritage hotel in Hanoi, a luxury beachfront villa in Hoi An, or a private pool resort in Phu Quoc, you’ll find exceptional hospitality and excellent value throughout the country.

Useful Travel Tips

Currency: Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is useful for local markets and smaller cafés.
Getting Around: Grab is the easiest way to travel in major cities, while private transfers are ideal for longer journeys.
Dress Respectfully: Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees when visiting temples and pagodas.
Crossing the Street: Traffic can seem busy at first, but walking calmly and steadily allows motorists to safely move around you.

Ready to Discover Vietnam?

Whether you’re cruising through Ha Long Bay, wandering the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, relaxing on the beaches of Phu Quoc, or experiencing the energy of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam offers a journey filled with culture, luxury, and unforgettable memories.