New Zealand Visa RequirementsFor Israel passport holders
Israeli citizens must apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before visiting New Zealand. The NZeTA costs NZD 17 (mobile app) or NZD 23 (online) and allows stays of up to 90 days.
Israel passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to New Zealand.
Apply for the NZeTA online at nzeta.immigration.govt.nz or via the NZeTA mobile app. Fees: NZD 23 online or NZD 17 via the app. An International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD 35 is also charged per application. The NZeTA is valid for multiple visits over 2 years, with each stay limited to 90 days. Apply at least 72 hours before travel; processing is usually faster but not always immediate.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
For Your Visa Application
New Zealand NZeTA
Apply at nzeta.immigration.govt.nz or via the NZeTA mobile app before travel. Fee: NZD 23 online or NZD 17 via app. Plus NZD 35 IVL (International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy). Processing up to 72 hours.
Valid Israeli Passport
Must be the same passport used for the NZeTA application. The NZeTA is electronically linked to the specific passport number. Renewing your passport requires a new NZeTA application.
Valid Email Address
Required to receive NZeTA approval notification. The approval email should be retained during travel.
Payment Method
International credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard) to pay the NZeTA fee (NZD 23) and IVL (NZD 35) totaling NZD 58 for online application.
Required at Entry
Onward or Return Travel Confirmation
Confirmed flight booking departing New Zealand within the authorized 90-day stay. New Zealand border officers require proof of onward travel at entry.
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Evidence of sufficient funds for the stay in New Zealand. NZ Immigration recommends a minimum of NZD 1,000 per month of stay or NZD 400 per month if accommodation is pre-paid.
Accommodation Confirmation Recommended
Hotel booking or confirmed accommodation for at least the first night in New Zealand. Border officers at Auckland Airport frequently ask about accommodation plans.
Current Travel Situation
Israel to New Zealand: What You Need to Know
New Zealand and Israel maintain diplomatic relations, and New Zealand grants Israeli passport holders entry via its NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) system rather than requiring a full tourist visa. The NZeTA is an online electronic authorization required before boarding any flight to New Zealand. New Zealand is a long-haul destination from Israel (approximately 20-25 hours travel time), but its spectacular landscapes including Milford Sound, Rotorua's geothermal features, the Bay of Islands, and the South Island's alpine scenery draw dedicated travelers.
Money & Banking
New Zealand uses the New Zealand dollar (NZD). Cards are universally accepted; New Zealand is nearly cashless. ATMs are widely available. New Zealand is moderately to highly priced for accommodation and activities. The NZD is weaker than the shekel, making New Zealand relatively affordable for Israelis.
Practical Tips
Apply at nzeta.immigration.govt.nz. New Zealand is a popular destination for Israeli eco-tourists and adventure travelers. Queenstown is the adventure capital with bungee jumping, skydiving, and skiing. The Lord of the Rings filming locations (Hobbiton, Mount Doom/Tongariro) attract film enthusiasts. A campervan road trip is a popular way to explore both islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the New Zealand NZeTA and do Israeli passport holders need one?
Yes. Israeli passport holders must apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before travelling to New Zealand. The NZeTA replaces the need for a pre-arranged tourist visa for eligible nationalities including Israel.
How much does the New Zealand NZeTA cost for Israeli applicants?
The NZeTA costs NZD 23 online or NZD 17 via the NZeTA mobile app. In addition, an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD 35 is charged per application. Apply at nzeta.immigration.govt.nz.
How long can Israeli tourists stay in New Zealand with an NZeTA?
Each visit to New Zealand with an NZeTA can be up to 90 days. The NZeTA itself is valid for multiple visits over 2 years from the date of issue, or until the passport it was issued for expires, whichever comes first.
How long does the NZeTA application take to process?
The NZeTA is typically approved within 72 hours of application, though it can take longer. Apply at least 72 hours before travel to allow for processing. Earlier application is advisable to provide time to resolve any issues.
How do Israeli tourists get to New Zealand from Tel Aviv?
No direct flights operate from Tel Aviv to New Zealand. The most common connections are via Singapore (Singapore Airlines or Air New Zealand), Hong Kong (Cathay Pacific and Air New Zealand), Sydney, or Dubai (Emirates with connection). Total journey time is approximately 20-25 hours. New Zealand's main international airports are Auckland (AKL) and Christchurch (CHC).
What are the top attractions in New Zealand for Israeli tourists?
Auckland (Sky Tower, Waitemata Harbour, wine region day trips), Rotorua (geothermal activity, Maori culture, zorbing), Queenstown (bungee jumping, skydiving, skiing, Lord of the Rings landscapes), Milford Sound (dramatic fjord, UNESCO), Abel Tasman National Park, and the Hobbiton movie set (from Lord of the Rings) near Matamata.
What is the best time to visit New Zealand from Israel?
New Zealand's seasons are opposite to Israel. Summer (December to February) offers the best weather for beaches and outdoor activities. Spring (October, November) and autumn (March, April) are pleasant with fewer crowds. The ski season runs June to September in Queenstown and other mountain resorts.
Is New Zealand affordable for Israeli tourists?
Moderate. New Zealand is not cheap but offers excellent quality and value for its exceptional natural experiences. The NZD is typically weaker than the USD; check current exchange rates. Campervan travel and Airbnb options make multi-week trips more affordable than staying exclusively in hotels.