Bali

What is the best time to visit Bali?

The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season (April to October), when you’ll enjoy sunny days, lower humidity and temperatures around 27 to 31°C. This is ideal for beach time, sightseeing and outdoor adventures.

The wet season (November to March) brings short, heavy tropical showers - usually in the afternoon, so you can still travel, just plan around the rain.

For Kiwis, shoulder months like May, June and September offer great weather with fewer crowds and better value.

How long should I spend in Bali?

Most travellers from New Zealand spend 7 to 10 days in Bali to properly explore beaches like Kuta and inland areas like Ubud.

If you’re short on time, 5 nights works for a relaxing beach break, while 10 to 14 days lets you combine Bali with nearby islands like Nusa Penida or the Gili Islands.

Where should I go in Bali for the first time?

For first‑time visitors, a mix of destinations works best:

• Seminyak or Legian offer dining, beach clubs and great shopping
• Ubud lets you experience culture, rice terraces and wellness
• Nusa Dua is renowned for it’s relaxing resorts and calm beaches
• Uluwatu boasts limestone cliffs, epic surf and stunning sunset views

This combination gives you a well-rounded Bali experience.

Is Bali a good holiday destination for Kiwis?

Yes, Bali is one of the most popular overseas destinations for New Zealand travellers thanks to its affordable luxury, warm climate, direct flights from Auckland and wide range of experiences from beaches to culture.

How to find the best Bali holiday deals from NZ?

Speak to your local House of Travel Bali specialist or check out our latest Bali holidays. We’ll help you look for:

• Inclusive package deals
• Shoulder season travel (May, June, September)
• Sale periods and airline promotions

Booking early or during major travel sales often secures the best value.

Do I need a visa for Bali from New Zealand?

New Zealand passport holders need a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for Indonesia.

It’s valid for 30 days and can be extended once. You’ll also need a passport valid for at least 6 months and a return onward ticket. You can apply for a visa before you arrive to save queueing time one arrival. Check out Safe Travel for the most up to date visa requirements.

Where is the best area to stay in Bali?

It depends on your travel style. Seminyak is perfect for foodies, beach clubs and shopping, while Canggu offers trendy cafes and epic surf. If you’re looking for cultural immersion, wellness retreats and jungle adventures - Ubud is the place to be. Nusa Dua is known for it’s luxury resorts and being family-friendly, and Uluwatu is famous for it’s surf, limestone cliffs and a quieter island escape.

What should I pack for Bali from NZ?

Pack light and practical:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• Swimwear and sandals
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Power adapter (Type C/F)
• Reusable water bottle

Bring some Indonesian rupiah (IDR) or withdraw cash on arrival.

What should I wear in Bali?

Wear lightweight, modest clothing in public areas.

When visiting temples, cover your shoulders and knees, or wear a sarong, which is sometimes provided.

Beachwear is fine at resorts and beaches, but not in towns or temples.

Do I need travel insurance for Bali?

Yes - travel insurance is strongly recommended for Bali.

Make sure your policy covers medical expenses, adventure activities and scooter or motorbike use, if you plan to hire a bike while you’re there.

Can I use NZD in Bali?

No, Bali uses Indonesian rupiah (IDR).

ATMs are widely available, and cards are accepted in most tourist areas, but carry cash for smaller purchases.

Is Bali safe for travellers from New Zealand?

Bali is generally safe but take standard precautions. Watch for petty theft in busy areas, use reputable transport services, be cautions on scooters and don’t drink tap water.

How do you get around Bali?

Getting around Bali is easy:

• Private drivers (great value and convenience)
• Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek
• Hotel transfers
• Scooter hire (only if experienced)

Traffic can be heavy, so allow extra travel time.

How much does a Bali holiday cost from NZ?

Costs vary, but Bali offers excellent value! You can expect meals from $5 to $20 NZD, a private driver can cost between $60 to $80 NZD per day, approximately, and accommodation varies from budget-friendly stays to luxury resorts.

What are the cultural dos and don’ts in Bali?

Do:

• Dress modestly at temples
• Respect local customs and ceremonies
• Use your right hand when giving/receiving

Don’t:

• Touch people’s heads
• Step on offerings (small baskets on the ground)
• Bargain in fixed-price stores

What are the best things to do in Bali?

Don’t miss a visit to Tanah Lot and Uluwatu temples, boasting stone carvings and traditional ceremonies. Explore Ubud’s majestic rice terraces and waterfalls, relax at a beach club in Seminyak or Canggu and if time permits – take a day trip to Nusa Penida or Gili Islands. Bali is also famous for its spa and wellness experiences, with yoga, Balinese massage, meditation and healthy food experiences.

Is Bali family-friendly?

Yes, Bali is ideal for families. Expect family-friendly resorts with kids’ clubs, take the kids to Waterbom Bali – a top rated water park, and enjoy the wildlife parks, cultural shows and beaches.

Can you drink the tap water in Bali?

No, tap water in Bali is not safe to drink.

Stick to bottled or filtered water, and avoid ice in places where water quality is uncertain.

Do I need cash in Bali or can I use cards?

Both are useful to have. Cards work best at hotels, restaurants and shops, while cash is handy for markets, taxis and small vendors.

Is tipping expected in Bali?

Tipping isn’t mandatory but is appreciated.

A small tip for drivers, guides and spa staff is common.

What apps should I download before travelling to Bali?

Helpful apps include:

• Grab or Gojek are common transport and food delivery apps
• Google Maps is recommended for navigation
• WhatsApp is widely used for bookings and communication

What is the best time to visit Bali?

The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season (April to October), when you’ll enjoy sunny days, lower humidity and temperatures around 27 to 31°C. This is ideal for beach time, sightseeing and outdoor adventures.

The wet season (November to March) brings short, heavy tropical showers - usually in the afternoon, so you can still travel, just plan around the rain.

For Kiwis, shoulder months like May, June and September offer great weather with fewer crowds and better value.

How long should I spend in Bali?

Most travellers from New Zealand spend 7 to 10 days in Bali to properly explore beaches like Kuta and inland areas like Ubud.

If you’re short on time, 5 nights works for a relaxing beach break, while 10 to 14 days lets you combine Bali with nearby islands like Nusa Penida or the Gili Islands.

Where should I go in Bali for the first time?

For first‑time visitors, a mix of destinations works best:

• Seminyak or Legian offer dining, beach clubs and great shopping
• Ubud lets you experience culture, rice terraces and wellness
• Nusa Dua is renowned for it’s relaxing resorts and calm beaches
• Uluwatu boasts limestone cliffs, epic surf and stunning sunset views

This combination gives you a well-rounded Bali experience.

Is Bali a good holiday destination for Kiwis?

Yes, Bali is one of the most popular overseas destinations for New Zealand travellers thanks to its affordable luxury, warm climate, direct flights from Auckland and wide range of experiences from beaches to culture.

How to find the best Bali holiday deals from NZ?

Speak to your local House of Travel Bali specialist or check out our latest Bali holidays. We’ll help you look for:

• Inclusive package deals
• Shoulder season travel (May, June, September)
• Sale periods and airline promotions

Booking early or during major travel sales often secures the best value.

Do I need a visa for Bali from New Zealand?

New Zealand passport holders need a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for Indonesia.

It’s valid for 30 days and can be extended once. You’ll also need a passport valid for at least 6 months and a return onward ticket. You can apply for a visa before you arrive to save queueing time one arrival. Check out Safe Travel for the most up to date visa requirements.

Where is the best area to stay in Bali?

It depends on your travel style. Seminyak is perfect for foodies, beach clubs and shopping, while Canggu offers trendy cafes and epic surf. If you’re looking for cultural immersion, wellness retreats and jungle adventures - Ubud is the place to be. Nusa Dua is known for it’s luxury resorts and being family-friendly, and Uluwatu is famous for it’s surf, limestone cliffs and a quieter island escape.

What should I pack for Bali from NZ?

Pack light and practical:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• Swimwear and sandals
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Power adapter (Type C/F)
• Reusable water bottle

Bring some Indonesian rupiah (IDR) or withdraw cash on arrival.

What should I wear in Bali?

Wear lightweight, modest clothing in public areas.

When visiting temples, cover your shoulders and knees, or wear a sarong, which is sometimes provided.

Beachwear is fine at resorts and beaches, but not in towns or temples.

Do I need travel insurance for Bali?

Yes - travel insurance is strongly recommended for Bali.

Make sure your policy covers medical expenses, adventure activities and scooter or motorbike use, if you plan to hire a bike while you’re there.

Can I use NZD in Bali?

No, Bali uses Indonesian rupiah (IDR).

ATMs are widely available, and cards are accepted in most tourist areas, but carry cash for smaller purchases.

Is Bali safe for travellers from New Zealand?

Bali is generally safe but take standard precautions. Watch for petty theft in busy areas, use reputable transport services, be cautions on scooters and don’t drink tap water.

How do you get around Bali?

Getting around Bali is easy:

• Private drivers (great value and convenience)
• Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek
• Hotel transfers
• Scooter hire (only if experienced)

Traffic can be heavy, so allow extra travel time.

How much does a Bali holiday cost from NZ?

Costs vary, but Bali offers excellent value! You can expect meals from $5 to $20 NZD, a private driver can cost between $60 to $80 NZD per day, approximately, and accommodation varies from budget-friendly stays to luxury resorts.

What are the cultural dos and don’ts in Bali?

Do:

• Dress modestly at temples
• Respect local customs and ceremonies
• Use your right hand when giving/receiving

Don’t:

• Touch people’s heads
• Step on offerings (small baskets on the ground)
• Bargain in fixed-price stores

What are the best things to do in Bali?

Don’t miss a visit to Tanah Lot and Uluwatu temples, boasting stone carvings and traditional ceremonies. Explore Ubud’s majestic rice terraces and waterfalls, relax at a beach club in Seminyak or Canggu and if time permits – take a day trip to Nusa Penida or Gili Islands. Bali is also famous for its spa and wellness experiences, with yoga, Balinese massage, meditation and healthy food experiences.

Is Bali family-friendly?

Yes, Bali is ideal for families. Expect family-friendly resorts with kids’ clubs, take the kids to Waterbom Bali – a top rated water park, and enjoy the wildlife parks, cultural shows and beaches.

Can you drink the tap water in Bali?

No, tap water in Bali is not safe to drink.

Stick to bottled or filtered water, and avoid ice in places where water quality is uncertain.

Do I need cash in Bali or can I use cards?

Both are useful to have. Cards work best at hotels, restaurants and shops, while cash is handy for markets, taxis and small vendors.

Is tipping expected in Bali?

Tipping isn’t mandatory but is appreciated.

A small tip for drivers, guides and spa staff is common.

What apps should I download before travelling to Bali?

Helpful apps include:

• Grab or Gojek are common transport and food delivery apps
• Google Maps is recommended for navigation
• WhatsApp is widely used for bookings and communication