travelling to uk from nz visa

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United Kingdom

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• Reviewed: 14 June 2023, 11:11 NZST
• Still current at: 13 April 2024
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If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here , alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Exercise increased caution

Exercise increased caution in the United Kingdom due to the threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).

Terrorism There is a heightened threat of terrorism across Europe, including in the United Kingdom.

New Zealanders in the United Kingdom are advised to take account of the terrorism threat level assigned by the United Kingdom Security Service when making travel decisions. There is also an enduring threat of Northern Ireland-related terrorism.

The UK has a long history of terrorist attacks which have caused multiple deaths and injuries.

On 14 November 2021, there was an explosion outside a hospital in Liverpool, killing one person.

On 29 November 2019, a stabbing attack took place near London Bridge killing two people and injuring three others.

On 14 August 2018, a vehicle drove into the barriers outside the Houses of Parliament in London, injuring two people.

On 15 September 2017, there was an explosion at Parsons Green Underground Tube Station in London, causing a number of injuries.

On 3 June 2017, a terror attack took place on London Bridge and nearby Borough Market killing seven people and injuring a number of others.

On 22 May 2017, an attack at a music concert held at the Manchester Arena killed 22 people with over 100 others injured.

On 22 March 2017, an attacker drove a vehicle through pedestrians before stabbing a police officer near the Houses of Parliament in Westminster, London, also killing three people and injuring a number of others.

Terrorist groups, individuals returning to the United Kingdom and Europe from areas of conflict, and individuals adhering to various forms of violent extremist ideologies, continue to make threats to conduct attacks in the United Kingdom and across Europe. There is also a threat from domestic-based violent extremists. Groups adhering to various violent extremist ideologies have conducted attacks in the past, some have been indiscriminate; targeting places of worship, government buildings and areas frequented by foreigners including transport hubs, major events and tourist areas.

New Zealanders in the United Kingdom are advised to be vigilant, particularly in public places. Follow any instructions issued by local authorities and stay informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. United Kingdom security personnel maintain an increased presence in public places as a precautionary measure.

Northern Ireland Although the political situation in Northern Ireland has improved since the 1998 peace agreement, incidents of violence continue to occur. Attacks primarily target Northern Ireland security forces and law enforcement, but banks and other commercial entities have also been targeted in the past.

From late March 2021, there have been a number of incidents including street violence, rioting, and attacks on police that have occurred in west and south Belfast, Londonderry and areas of County Antrim.

The annual summer marching parades which occur during the period April to August, and particularly on and around 12 July, have the potential to turn violent. We recommend you avoid them.

Crime Petty crime such as bag and mobile phone snatching, pickpocketing and mugging is common, especially in urban centers, tourist locations and on public transport. Thieves sometimes impersonate undercover police officers. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard their personal belongings. Vehicle theft and theft from parked vehicles are known to occur. Knife-related crime and drink and drug-spiking is prevalent across the United Kingdom and can lead to sexual assault. The Met Police has advice on personal safety.

Only use licensed taxi or transport services. There have been reports of travellers being sexually assaulted and mugged in unlicensed taxis and minicabs. Transport for London maintains a website with additional information on how to travel safer within London.

Beware of ATM and credit card fraud. Avoid using ATMs that look temporary in structure or location, and only use ATMs in well-lit public areas or inside banks. Visit Action Fraud for more information about fraud and cybercrime in the United Kingdom.

Civil Unrest We recommend you avoid all protests and demonstrations as civil disorder can quickly escalate and result in property damage and violence. Keep aware of your surroundings and monitor media to keep up to date with any developments.

General Travel Advice Immigration regulations are strictly enforced in the United Kingdom. For more information, see the official UK Visa and Immigration website.

New Zealanders travelling or living in the United Kingdom should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place.

The devolved nations of Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland provide their own advice and guidance.  Refer to local authorities for the latest information. 

New Zealanders in the United Kingdom are encouraged to register their details with the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

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The New Zealand High Commission London, United Kingdom

Street Address 1 Pall Mall East, London, SW1Y 5AU, United Kingdom Telephone +44 20 7930 8422 Fax +44 20 7839 4580 Email [email protected] Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/de/countries-and-regions/europe/united-kingdom/new-zealand-high-commission/ Hours Mon - Fri 0900 - 1700 hrs

New Zealand Honorary Consulate Belfast, United Kingdom

Postal Address Glendinning House, 6 Murray Street, Belfast BT1 6DN Telephone +44 (0) 7712 188773 Email [email protected]

New Zealand Honorary Consulate Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Postal Address 40 Torphichen Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8JB, United Kingdom Telephone +44 (0)131 222 8109 Email [email protected]

See our regional advice for Europe

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New zealand high commission united kingdom.

Telephone: +44 20 7930 8422

Fax: +44 20 7839 4580

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.mfat.govt.nz/de/countries-and-regions/europe/united-kingdom/new-zealand-high-commission/

Hours: Mon - Fri 0900 - 1700 hrs

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Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade 195 Lambton Quay Private Bag 18 901 Wellington 5045 New Zealand

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Get a visa to visit another country

Check which visas you'll need and organise to get them well ahead of your travel dates.

What type of visa you’ll need

Different countries have different rules — some countries allow you to stay for certain periods without a visa. If you do not have the correct visa you can be refused entry. The type of visa you need will depend on:

• the country you’re travelling to
• the passport you hold
• the purpose of your trip
• the length of your stay.

You can find out about the visa you’ll need from:

• the foreign representative to NZ of the country you want to visit (for example, embassies, high commissions or consulates)
• your travel agent.

Find an embassy, high commission or consulate

Applying for your visa

Different countries have different application processes — getting a visa can often take weeks, so make sure you give yourself enough time. Also make sure you have a valid passport when applying for a visa.

A visa does not always mean you’ll be able to travel

Having a visa does not mean you’ll be allowed to enter another country — you’ll still have to clear customs and immigration when you arrive.

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Last updated 14 September 2021

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Date printed 13 April 2024

Visas and entry requirements

Visas, New Zealand

By Tourism New Zealand

Learn more about the available visa options and entry requirements into New Zealand

We enjoy welcoming visitors to New Zealand. Having a valid passport and the right visa is key to a trouble-free entry into New Zealand. Your passport has to be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date, and if required, have a valid New Zealand visa .

On this page, you'll find helpful information on New Zealand visa options:

• Travel requirements to enter New Zealand
• Visitor visa for a holiday
• Working holiday visa
• Transit visa (through New Zealand or Australia)

New Zealand visa options

Visiting new zealand for a holiday.

You do not need a visa to visit New Zealand if you are:

• A New Zealand citizen travelling on a New Zealand passport or on a foreign passport that has a New Zealand citizen endorsement
• An Australian citizen travelling on an Australian passport
• A foreign passport holder with a valid visa for New Zealand - including a Permanent Resident visa

If you plan to visit New Zealand for a short period, you need   request a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority   (NZeTA) before you travel if you are:

• A citizen of a country which has a   visa waiver )   agreement with New Zealand (you can stay up to three months)

If you don’t meet the above, then you’ll need a visitor visa. The fastest and easiest way to apply for a visitor visa (opens in new window) is online.

Before travelling to New Zealand, you need to make sure your passport is valid for at least three months longer than your expected departure date.

Be sure to request your   NZeTA ) , or apply for your visitor visa well in advance of travel to avoid delays, and only use the official NZeTA website to request your New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority.

For more information on cost and processing times, visit the official   NZeTA website .

If you have a biometric ordinary passport (or electronic passport) and are over 12 years old, you may be able to use New Zealand Customs eGate service. This allows you to complete your Customs and Immigration checks faster so you can get on with enjoying your visit to New Zealand.

Working holidays

Working holiday visas (opens in new window) are available to young people, usually aged 18-30 (but 18-35 for a select few nationalities). They let you travel and work in New Zealand for up to 12 months, or 23 months if you’re from the UK. To apply you’ll need to meet the visa requirements, and have:

• A return ticket, or enough money to pay for one; and 
• Be coming mainly to holiday, with work being a secondary intention.

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Work visas and staying permanently

If you’re thinking of coming to New Zealand to work for a few years, or maybe even to settle, you’ll need a work or resident visa. To get that – you’re likely to need a job.

For information about working in New Zealand, including industry profiles, tips on job hunting, and a list of job sites to check out, visit New Zealand Now. (opens in new window)

Transiting through New Zealand or Australia

If you are travelling to New Zealand via an Australian airport, you may also need an Australian visa – consult your travel agent or airline if you are unsure.

Transit visas (opens in new window) will also be needed for all people travelling via New Zealand, unless they are specifically exempted by immigration policy.

More information about visas

The visa and immigration information on this page is just a summary. For everything you need to know about coming to New Zealand, visit Immigration New Zealand. (opens in new window)

Find out if you need a visa

Essential Travel Information

Upon arrival in new zealand.

Once you have checked your eligibility for travel (opens in new window) , you will need to complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration (opens in new window) .

Traveller Declaration requirements

Travellers arriving into New Zealand international airports now have the option to complete a digital declaration instead of a paper arrival declaration, before travelling to New Zealand. To find out more go to www.travellerdeclaration.govt.nz (opens in new window) .

Here's how to complete your declaration online. 

What you can bring into New Zealand

After you’ve cleared passport control, you should collect your baggage and proceed through customs and biosecurity checks. In order to protect New Zealand and its environment, certain items are not allowed to be brought into the country, have restrictions for entry or must be declared if they are deemed to present a biosecurity risk. These include food, plants, animal products and outdoor recreational equipment.

Your baggage may be sniffed by a detector dog and/or x-rayed, and it may be searched to identify any risk goods you might be carrying.

To avoid penalties it is best to familiarise yourself with these guidelines prior to travel. For a detailed list of prohibited, restricted or declarable items, please visit Ministry for Primary Industries (opens in new window) (biosecurity agency).

Allowances and duty free concessions

As a visitor to New Zealand you may be entitled to various concessions and duty free entries on some of your goods. If you are 17 years or older, you are entitled to allowances for alcohol, cigarettes and tobacco. For detailed information on allowances and duty free concessions, please visit New Zealand Customs (opens in new window) .

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New Zealanders visiting the UK will soon have to pay an ETA before travel

Thomas Bywater

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The UK has announced intentions to require an ETA fee from travellers by 2025. Photo / Sabrina Mazzeo, Unsplash

New Zealanders planning on visiting the United Kingdom will soon have to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation before they fly.

Similar to the NZeTA which tourists from visa waiver countries must apply for before travelling to New Zealand, the UK government announced its intention to introduce an ETA no later than 2025.

“The scheme will give the UK more control of our borders, allowing us to block threats from entering the UK, whilst also providing individuals, and carriers with more assurance at an earlier point in time about their ability to travel to the UK,” says the UK Home Office regarding the Nationality and Borders Bill .

All visitors from the “visa waiver” countries must first apply and pay for the digital travel authorisation before travel, apart from citizens of the UK or Ireland.

This decision sees the UK joining other countries which have introduced digital travel permits for visitors who would normally be “visa exempt” or granted a visa on arrival.

New Zealand, the USA, Canada and Australia already require electronic travel applications for visitors from certain nations on short trips.

The cost of the UK’s proposed ETA has not yet been announced. However, the Home Office says it will be up to airlines and carriers to check. Visitors trying to travel without an ETA will be refused boarding their plane.

“To be fully effective, individuals’ permissions must be checked by their carrier and confirmed prior to travel.”

The European Union is set to introduce its own digital travel authority, the ETIAS, by the end of the year after delays caused by the pandemic. The EU travel authority will cost €7 ($11).

ETA errors and exploitation

The relatively recent requirements of digital travel authorisations - which must be applied for online prior to travel - have opened up travellers to exploitation and errors.

The US was one of the first to introduce its Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) in 2010. Travellers searching to apply for an authority online will often find third party “Esta services” promoted above official US Customs and Borders Protection sites.

In 2019 the Herald revealed that some third party services were charging up to ten times more for an ESTA in commissions.

The US Consulate has warned travellers of “ESTA fraud” and to always apply via the official government portal.

Despite not being required until next year, non government websites have already appeared advising and, in some cases, charging for European ETIAS processing.

Other travellers find themselves paying extra for expedited services , not realising they need an ETA for their destination or for a country they are transiting.

Another issue with the electronic travel authorisations is that they are checked by carriers en route to a destination but are not required to book travel.

In some cases it has cost unprepared or ill-informed travellers expensive international fares, after they are refused boarding by airlines.

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NZeTA - New Zealand Travel Authority

If you travel to New Zealand on holiday, you'll need to get either a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) or a visitor visa — unless you're an Australian citizen.

The New Zealand Government has introduced a new travel requirement for some visitors and transit passengers, including from visa waiver countries such as the United Kingdom.

It’s called the NZeTA - New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority.

The NZeTA is issued by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) and is required for travel from 1 October 2019.

UK passport holders must have an NZeTA issued before travelling to New Zealand, if they don’t have a visa. Travellers need to request their NZeTA via the official mobile App or website. Approval is usually processed that day but can take up to 72 hours.

More information can be found on How to apply for an NZeTA (external link) or www.immigration.govt.nz/eta (external link)  

Beware of applying through an unauthorised third-party website. The Immigration New Zealand website is the only official website.

You can check the status of your NZeTA application using the official Immigration New Zealand (INZ) link: https://nzeta.immigration.govt.nz/check-status (external link)   

Enter your reference number, your passport number and your nationality. Use this tool too if, for example, you have concerns about an application via an unauthorised third party provider.

You can also request to update your NZeTA on the INZ website by filling out an online form: www.immigration.govt.nz/contact/nzeta-change-request (external link)   

You can use this form to update passport details, name changes, email addresses, and correct small errors on an NZeTA (such as spelling mistakes).

• Visit www.immigration.govt.nz/nzeta (external link)  to find out if you need an NZeTA or How to request an NZeTA (external link) to apply

In general, you will need a visa if you wish to:

• visit as a tourist (external link)
• work temporarily (external link)
• have a working holiday (external link)
• live permanently (external link)
• study (external link)

The Immigration New Zealand (external link)  website provides comprehensive information in English about visa requirements when coming to New Zealand including information on:

• Applying for a visa (external link)
• Application fees (external link)
• Doctors for immigration medicals (external link)
• Visa-free countries (external link)

Applying for a New Zealand visa

Applying online.

Most work, student and visitor visas can be applied for online. Applying online is often faster and less expensive than sending in a paper application form. When you apply online, you may be granted an electronic visa (or eVisa).

Before you apply online it is important to check what visa you need and what the requirements are.

Use Immigration Online (external link)  to apply for a work, student or visitor visa.

Use Online Systems (external link) to apply for a working holiday visa, Silver Fern Job Search Work Visa, or submit a Skilled Migrant Category expression of interest.

You may be eligible for an eVisa if you apply for your visa online. An eVisa is a visa issued without a physical label meaning you don’t need to send away your passport. Find out more about e-visas (external link) .

New Zealand Visa Application Centre London

You can still use a Visa Application Centre (VAC) if you need to submit a paper based application.

Visa applications must be sent to the New Zealand Visa Application Centre (VAC) in London (external link) .

Information regarding courier options for the return of passports and original documentation is also on this website.

All applications must be lodged by mail or in person to:

New Zealand Visa Application Centre 66 Wilson Street London EC2A 2BT United Kingdom

Phone: +44 203 582 7499

Email: [email protected]  

Web:  https://visa.vfsglobal.com/gbr/en/cze/attend-centre/london (external link)   

Office hours: Monday to Friday: 8:30am to 4pm

Lodging your application

Please refer to the   Visa Application Centre Website (external link) for information on how to lodge your visa application.

Applications are only required from people who need a visa (e.g. student, work, transit, resident etc) to travel to New Zealand. Visitors from visa waiver countries (external link) , including Belgium, can continue to travel to New Zealand visa free under certain conditions.

For additional information on New Zealand visas, please visit the Immigration New Zealand (external link) website.

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UK Visa For New Zealand Citizens

If you’re a New Zealander considering moving to the United Kingdom, there are a range of  UK visas and immigration options  available to you.

For more information about how to move to the UK, including expert help and assistance with applying for visas and relocating, talk to one of our legal advisers today. Call us on  +44333 305 9375 , or contact us  online .

Request a call back from our immigration experts

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Benefits of Choosing IAS’ Immigration Lawyers

At IAS, we understand that every case and client is unique, so we provide bespoke assessment and support to each client. With us, you get a dedicated immigration lawyer who is dedicated to ensuring your application is successful. Enjoy the following benefits with IAS:

Compassionate support from an experienced immigration lawyer dedicated to your success

Support in gathering supporting documents and completing a high-quality application.

A personalised Letter of Representation to help compile a compelling case for approval

Continued support from your lawyer in the event of any complications.

Services we Provide

Need help with an immigration issue? Book a one-to-one advice session with one of our legal caseworkers.

We can complete your visa application on your behalf, taking the stress and hassle out of the process.

Need to submit an application quickly? We can help you complete and send it off in as little as 24 hours.

Ensure you have the greatest chance of a successful appeal with our legal support and guidance.

Overview of UK Visa For New Zealand Citizens

The United Kingdom has always been a popular destination for New Zealanders to travel to. There were over 59,000 New Zealand-born residents registered in the 2015 UK census, and many more have flocked to the UK since then to take advantage of its cosmopolitan cities and stunning scenery.

The strong ties between the two countries are well-known, with both the UK and New Zealand being said to share a similar sense of humour and approach to life. Both countries also share a common language and similar governmental systems, as well as a strong political link through the Commonwealth of Nations.

However, even with the shared similarities, the UK’s proximity to Europe and highly diverse international culture still provide a fresh and exciting prospect for New Zealanders looking to start a new life abroad.

It’s therefore no surprise that many New Zealanders single out the UK as one of the top destinations in the world to visit and emigrate to.

If you’re a New Zealander looking to up sticks and emigrate to the UK, there are a  range of visas and immigration routes  available to you, including the highly sought-after  Ancestry visa . Whatever your preferred route will be to moving to the UK, IAS can help and advise you every step of the way.

UK Ancestry Visas for New Zealanders

One of the most coveted and desirable routes to UK permanent residency for New Zealanders is the  Ancestry visa .

This is a special type of visa only available to a small select group of countries, including Commonwealth and British Overseas countries, as well as British Overseas territories.

The most important criteria for the Ancestry visa is proving that one of your grandparents was born in one of the following circumstances:

• In the UK, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man
• Before 31 March 1922 in what is now Ireland
• On a ship or aircraft that was either registered in the UK or belonged to the UK government

You must also prove that you intend to work in the UK, and that you meet the minimum financial requirements.

It’s thought that around 80% of New Zealanders have some form of British ancestry, which means that the Ancestry visa may be an accessible and appealing route for many New Zealanders who wish to relocate to the UK.

The Ancestry visa allows you to live and work in the UK for up to 5 years, after which you can extend your visa or apply for permanent settlement, which is known as  indefinite leave to remain .

UK Family Visas for New Zealanders

It may be the case that you already have close family who are residents or citizens of the UK. In this case, you may wish to apply for a  Family visa  in order to travel to the UK and join them.

The Family visa typically allows you to stay in the UK for around 2 to 3 years initially, after which it can be extended.

The eligible family members you can travel to the UK to join include your:

• Spouse or partner
• Fiancé, fiancée or proposed civil partner
• Relative who’ll provide long-term care for you

Note that you cannot apply for a family visa if your family member is in the UK temporarily on a student or a work visa.

As part of the application process, you’ll have to give a range of proof and evidence to demonstrate that you’re eligible for the visa. This will vary based on which family member you’ll be joining when you move to the UK.

Depending on your circumstances, you may either apply from within or outside of the UK.

Get in touch with our immigration experts for assistance with your move to the UK today.

UK Work Visas For New Zealanders

If you’re not eligible for the Ancestry or Family visa or simply wish to explore a different route to British residency, you may be eligible for one of the UK’s work visas.

The most popular of these is the  Skilled Worker visa . This is a route to permanent residency that allows workers in eligible professions to come and live in the UK for an initial period of up to 5 years (although this can be  extended ). It covers a wide range of jobs, from business, manufacturing, healthcare, science, arts and more.

Skilled workers must have a valid job offer from an approved UK-based company to be eligible, and also meet the minimum salary and language requirements.

Also available are the  Start-Up visas  and  Innovator visas . These are visas that require an endorsement from a UK higher education institution or a UK business, and are aimed at those who wish to set up a new, innovative business in the UK.

Note that only the Innovator visa allows you to eventually apply for permanent settlement in the UK, although you may switch to it from the Start-Up visa or another eligible visa once you’re in the UK.

How Can IAS Help?

Moving away from your home to a new country is always a daunting one. While the UK may be more popular than other countries for New Zealanders to move to, UK visa requirements and entry requirements can sometimes be complicated and difficult to navigate.

For any questions or queries about moving beyond New Zealand’s borders and starting a new life abroad in the UK, IAS can help.

We are dedicated immigration law professionals committed to helping individuals like yourself successfully apply for a UK visa and achieve your goal of emigrating. Whether you’re looking to emigrate with an Ancestry visa, to join family, or for work, we can help you apply for a visa that fits your needs and anything else you might need to make the relocation process a success.

We can assist you remotely throughout the process of applying for your visa from New Zealand, helping you with your application and supporting documents while also providing you with all the tools and knowledge you need to keep the international move from New Zealand to the UK stress-free.

We can also help you apply for a short-term visitor visa if you’d like to visit the UK first before committing to a move, and also help you track your visa status for whichever visa you’ve applied for.

For further information about how IAS can help you come to the UK, and more information about the range of services we offer, contact us today on  0333 305 9375 , or contact us  online .

We offer immigration advice sessions as face to face appointments at all of our UK offices, or via the phone.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the most popular place for new zealanders to move to in the uk.

London is by far the most popular destination for New Zealanders to move to in the UK, with Acton, Hammersmith and Brondesbury being home to large and notable New Zealander communities.

There also exist a range of groups, societies and organisations dedicated to the New Zealander community in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, such as The New Zealand Society, the Ngati Ranana London Maori Club and the New Zealand Women’s Association.

A full list of these groups can be found on the  New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s page on clubs and associations .

How do I apply for a UK visa?

In most cases, you will have to  apply for a visa  online through the Gov.uk website. Often, you will also need to do this before you travel to the UK to ensure that you have valid entry clearance.

You’ll usually have to provide a range of proof and supporting documentation to demonstrate that you meet the minimum criteria for the visa you’re applying for, such as proving you have enough funds or that you have the right kind of sponsorship.

You may also have to attend a local visa application centre in order to give your biometrics information in the form of your fingerprints and a photograph. This information will be necessary to issue your UK biometric residence permit.

There are four main UK visa application centres in New Zealand: two in Auckland, and one each in Christchurch and Wellington.

Note that if you have any specific questions or requests for your visa application, these should always be directed to UK Visas and Immigration or your travel agent, rather than the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade or Immigration New Zealand.

How can I apply for British citizenship?

After you spend a total of 5 years in the UK on a valid visa, you will be able to apply for indefinite leave to remain.

After 12 months of living in the UK with indefinite leave to remain, you will then be eligible to apply for  British citizenship .

UK citizens are able to stay and work in the UK permanently, as well as travel in and out of the UK without being subject to any immigration restrictions or control.

To apply for citizenship, you’ll need to take the  Life in the UK Test  and also demonstrate that you are of ‘good character’, which means not having a criminal record or any previous immigration issues, amongst other things.

Citizens of New Zealand are able to hold dual citizenship, which means that you can safely obtain British citizenship without having to renounce your New Zealander citizenship or New Zealander passport.

Can I access the NHS as a New Zealander?

You will be able to access the UK’s National Health Service if you’re on a visa that allows you to stay for more than 6 months in the UK.

However, you will first have to pay an annual immigration health surcharge to do so.

The immigration health surcharge is £624 a year.

You will no longer have to pay the immigration health surcharge when you apply for indefinite leave to remain or British citizenship.

Is New Zealand part of the UK’s electronic visa waiver programme?

The electronic visa waiver (EVW) programme allows citizens of certain foreign countries to visit the UK for up to 6 months without a visa.

Unfortunately, New Zealand is not a part of the EVW programme, so you will need to apply for a visitor visa if you wish to visit the UK for less than 6 months.

The following countries are a part of the EVW programme:

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• United Arab Emirates

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EUROPE - UNITED KINGDOM

Uk: know before you go guide .

The lowdown on all things United Kingdom. This is your definitive guide to holidaying in the UK.  

It’s a fabulously confusing old land, the UK. Apparently they speak English but walk into any pub, shop or newsagent (that’s a dairy) and we beg to differ. They might be saying hello, but in what accent is anyone’s guess. Then there’s the food which also needs an entire dictionary unto itself. How on earth is a foreign visitor expected to succeed? Well, these top tips should help...

Battle on, old chum, battle on. What defines the UK, exactly? The United Kingdom includes England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland; in total, six counties of Ireland. Southern Ireland (now the Republic of Ireland, previously the Irish Free State) is not part of the UK. 

1  |  How long can I stay without a visa?

New Zealand passport holders can enter the UK for six months without a visa if they are in the UK for a holiday. 

2 | What’s the local currency?

British pound sterling. But you can call it pound. Or quid. If you’re visiting The Republic of Ireland you’ll need Euros, but remember in Northern Ireland you’ll need pound again.    * Never pluralise your quid. It's one quid and ten quid, not one quid and ten quids.

3 | Do I need to tip?

The UK’s tipping culture is more prolific than NZ, but nowhere near as common as the USA. As a general rule, tip 10% in all restaurants. Unless, of course, you had terrible service. Unlike NZ, hospitality wages in the UK are borderline crumbs and peanuts, and wait staff heavily rely on earning good gratuities. 

The phrase “And one for yourself” is still (kind of) common in pubs and bars. How much they take is where the risk lies. Fortunately it’s not the price of a drink but depending on your bar tender, they might take 50p; they might take a pound. When in doubt, pay in cash and round up.

You may see tip jars in cafes but it’s unlikely you’ll see any British folk putting anything but coppers (and the cheeky odd receipt) in them.

4 | Transfers to and from the airport

Travelling from London airports to central London:

We guarantee after a 24+ hour flight from NZ, you won't want to deal with a transfer via public transport; getting out of Heathrow Airport (the busiest airport in the world) alone can take up to 1.5 hours. Ask your HoT consultant about booking a transfer before you even leave NZ. Trust us, you'll be thankful.  Really don't want to book a transfer? There are three main airports in London: Gatwick, Heathrow and Stansted. For all information on how to get from all three airports to London central,  click here.  

Quick facts:

First train CDG to Paris:  04:56am Last train CDG to Paris: 23:56pm Trains run every 10 to 15 minutes. Average journey time between Paris-Châtelet and CDG airport is 35-40 minutes Arrival Stations: Gare du Nord, Châtelet les Halles, St Michel/Nôtre Dame, Luxembourg, Port Royal, Denfert-Rochereau, Cité Universitaire.  We guarantee after a 24+ hour flight from NZ, you won't want to deal with a transfer via public transport. Ask your HOT consultant about booking a transfer before you even leave NZ.  

5 | Getting around

Uber:  Uber is all over London and most major cities but you won’t find it in smaller towns and villages - yet! London Underground:   Also called the tube. Probably the easiest and most economical means of getting around the capital (definitely get yourself an Oyster card). When the tube folk are doing track work, it's usually done at weekends, so always check which lines are operating on your day of travel. Especially if you're heading to the airport!  For more information click here.

Taxis:  In the city, don’t always presume Uber is cheapest. Many of the longstanding taxi firms got savvy and are now competitively priced, and sometimes cheaper.

Black cabs:  A resolutely London thing to do, but you’ll be paying by the metre. And in London, when traffic moves at a snail’s pace, you won’t go far for £20.

Trains:  One of the best ways to get around the country, the UK’s train system is centuries old and therefore well established. It’s efficient, quick and easy. Eg, London to Manchester is a two hour train journey, compared to five hours in a car. Book three months in advance for the cheapest tickets. If you book on the day of travel, you’ll be paying premium.  Check routes, fares and timetables here.

Oyster Card:  In London, invest in a Visitor Oyster card to pay for journeys on the bus, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, TfL Rail, River Bus and most National Rail services. Use it like a pay-as-you-go smartcard and only top up when necessary. Fares are cheaper than buying a paper single ticket and if you’re savvy, and cap your daily journeys, it’ll work out half the price per day of a Day Travelcard (currently £14.40 per day). 

6 | Weather: What can you expect when you go?

Well of course they all speak English. Mostly. You’ll also hear a fair amount of Welsh in Wales (including all road signage but don’t worry it’s in English too). Dialects however, are vast. And at times can sound like a different language entirely. The better known are:

• Cockney: London
• Manc: Manchester
• Brummy: Birmingham
• Geordie: Newcastle
• Scouse: Liverpool

From the rozzers to the bizzies (both mean police), English dialects are ever evolving and new words are coined almost daily. When in doubt, just nod and smile. Or ask! The Brits are charmingly rather proud of their quirky dialects - they'll love to tell you what " getting a gob on " * means. 

* To be annoyed or irritated about something. And usually making it very obvious that you're peeved.  And remember, chips are called crisps here. Lollies are sweets (unless you want an old fashioned lollipop with a stick) and hot chips are just chips 

7 | Rules and customs

Tipping  – See above.

Queueing  – Push in at your own risk.

Football  – Is huge in the UK and people are passionate about it. Much more so than rugby. Unlike rugby, fans sit separately in the stadium (for safety) but do try and experience a match because you'll be bowled over by the atmosphere. Be cautious about buying tickets to a 'derby' because the rivalry will be rife, and less suitable for those with small children. Also, expect a friendly dressing down if you refer to it as soccer.

Motorway driving  – Overtake on the right and only the right. Undertaking is illegal and will cause a great deal of irritation. And danger. And if the ‘rozzers’ catch you, you’re definitely in trouble.

The driver’s wave  – There are more than 25 million cars on the road in the UK, so a little etiquette goes a long way. If you’re on a self-drive, always wave as a signal of ‘thanks’ when another driver gives you right of way. Not doing so is considered worse than jumping a queue (and you might cop a fair amount of flack - or the finger - back). 

Flashing lights  – At night you might see drivers flashing their indicators once on each side, or a single quick flash of their full beams. This is how British drivers say thanks in the dark.  

Sarcasm  – Is rife. Embrace it. 

Coffee –  Good luck. They’re getting better but it’s a work in progress. Chain coffee shops aren't sniffed at quite as much as they are in NZ. Duck into Costa, Cafe Nero, Pret a Manger and (at a push) Starbucks for a semi-decent flat white. 

The Sun Newspaper  – And finally, a sensitive one. But interesting nevertheless. Nobody reads The Sun newspaper in Liverpool (one of Blighty's most popular national newspapers) because the paper wrongly reported Liverpool FC fans as the culprits of the 1989 Hillsborough Disaster, which killed 96 people, The Sun is not sold or tolerated. You'll even see signs on trains and shop windows saying "The Sun isn't sold/read here". And we'd advise following suit or you'll likely find yourself in hot water. 

8 | Where to have fun

In the pub. And if it’s summer, the beer garden. When in doubt (or bored) the British descend on their local, but they’re not all burning log fires and craft beer; for as many quintessentially homely public houses, there are absolute dives. Stick your head in first and take a quick peek. You might also want to take in a footie match; the difference between the atmosphere at a rugby game and the football is profound. But don’t expect to be seated with the rival team; matches get very competitive, and at times heated, but embrace the chants because it’s all part of the 90 minute fun. Go shopping because the British love it, plus the prices are cheaper than NZ, and try a slab of UK Cadbury’s and exclaim at the difference. And of course, partake in both afternoon tea (you’ll discover NZ teabags are sub-par FYI) and a Sunday roast. You haven’t really experienced Britain until you’ve had a Yorkshire pudding. Try and find somewhere selling homemade Yorkshires; frozen just won’t cut it. 

9 | What to do in an emergency

The UK is a relatively safe country but like anywhere, there is more crime in the cities. Call 999 if you have an emergency, this covers the police, fire service, ambulance and coast guard.  House of Travel recommends anyone travelling to the UK and Europe registers with  Safe Travel .  As well as offering invaluable travel advice, should an emergency arise, they can find you, check your well-being and send important travel information. We also recommend safely and securely storing three important travel documents (your passport, credit card and driver's license) on your phone. Use an app such as Traveler ID which will safely store a series of documents. Of course, you might lose your phone, so store them in the Cloud or your saved emails as well.

10 | Mobile usage – to roam or not to roam?

As a general rule, grab yourself a UK SIM card if you think you’ll spend over $50 in data roaming charges. You can pick up a pay-as-you-go SIM card from most UK phone stores for roughly £25, and that’ll included unlimited data for 30 days. As well as a few hundred free minutes and texts. Simply make sure your phone’s unlocked and then ditch the SIM when your holiday’s done. The largest UK phone companies are Orange, Vodafone, Three and O2, but you can also nip into 'The Carphone Warehouse' which sell them all. For really cheap SIMS, pop into one of the local supermarkets: Tesco and Sainsburys also promote phone deals.    

HOT tip:  There’s a comparison website for almost every service in the UK.  Check out what SIM-only plan would work the best for you holiday here.

11 | HOT’s top 5 UK eats 

1. Sunday Roast Dinner Perfectly cooked meat, roasted vegetables, a vast array of condiments, gravy and Yorkshire puddings (savoury battered soufflé is the only way we can describe it). Try it:   Toby's Carvery.   Sure you could find a super cute back country lane pub - OR, you could do as the British do and descend on a Toby's Carvery: The home of the roast. Located nationwide and no frills guaranteed, the all day carvery starts from £7.49. Go on, we dare you...

2. Afternoon tea Numerous hotels, mansions, stately homes and boutique cafes offer some sort of decadent high tea. Choose between a classic cup of tea, or a flute of bubbles (it'll be called 'Sparkling Wine' in the UK).  Try it:  If you’ve ever watched the 1990 movie, The Witches, based on Roald Dahls’ book of the same name, you’ll recognise Newquay’s Headland Hotel. The high tea scones with Cornish clotted cream are (arguably) the best in the country. Address: Fistral Beach Complex, Headland Rd, Newquay

3. Bangers and Mash Admittedly not much to look at; Bangers and Mash is a traditional British dish. A must-try while in the UK.  Try it:  Mother Mash are the ‘mash specialists’ in London. You’re can build your own mash meal – choose your mash (classic, cheesy, bubble & squeak), main (Cumberland, London Smokey etc) and gravy… the list goes on. You can even swap your ‘banger’ for a pie. You'll find them at two London locations in Carnaby Street and Covent Garden. 

Address: 4 New Row, Covent Garden WC2N 4LN / 26 Ganton Street, London W1F 7QZ

4. Toad in the hole No toads involved. Sausage is cooked in a thick, golden and unbelievably delicious batter and served with thick gravy. Great on the taste-buds, not so much on your arteries. Try it : Sherlock Holmes pub. In St James, London's famous Sherlock Holmes pub serves all the best pub grub, including toad in the hole. The iconic Victorian-style pub is themed around the world-famous detective. Address: 10 Northumberland Street, St James, London.

5. A bacon butty Two pints of lager tastes magnificent when washed down with a bacon butty (bap or barn depending where you are in the country) A bread roll bursting with fried bacon and lashings of tomato ketchup, there’s nothing better. Try it :  Swing by ‘ Caravan ’ in Farringdon Exmouth Market. They’re renowned for their superb all day breakfast and brunch.

12 | Is the water safe to drink?  

Absolutely. It might not taste the nicest in big cities, but get out into the countryside and it’ll be borderline delicious. As will your tea – makes a great cuppa.  

13 | HOT’s top insider tips

Dine in for Two A little secret you won't know unless you've spent extended time in the UK. If you're self catering, keep an eye out for Marks & Spencer's Dine in for Two. You can bag a main, side and starter or dessert all for £12. Countdown this is not, premium dinners include 21-day matured Sirloin steaks, smoked sea bass and Scottish salmon fillets. Your dessert will also be decadent. All this for $24.  UK shopping is always cheaper than NZ The UK’s largest designer outlet complex is  McArthur Glen Designer Outlet . Just a 45-minute drive out of Manchester (and it’s the one M56 motorway all the way) this outdoor shopping complex is home to 145 designer boutiques, from Burberry to YSL, Nike, Ralph Lauren, Mulberry and 140 more. It's huge so allocate at least half a day.  When in Edinburgh walk to Stockbridge When in Edinburgh, get off the tourist circuit and head to Stockbridge. A pretty wee village just a ten minute walk from Princes Street, if you fancy saying "cheerio the nou" (Scottish for goodbye apparently) to the tourists, this is where you'll find more locals. Eat a bag of fried chips outside the smallest house Go inside Great Britain’s smallest house in the quaint fishing village of Conwy, North Wales. It’s just 6 foot wide and only a fraction higher. Located in the picture-perfect seaside town of Conwy, complete with its own castle and shops selling traditional sticks of seaside rock, there's nowhere better to sit and eat scraps (a term used in England which refers to left over chip batter).  Holidaying with kids The UK's two biggest and best theme parks are  Alton Towers  and  Thorpe Park ,   both owned by Merlin Entertainments. Alton Towers is convenient if you're 'up north' and Thorpe Park is your south option. Both are huge, and akin in size and serious G-force as any of the Gold Coast's premier theme parks.   A little known dime in the UK's north-west Families love the award-winning Crocky Trail. An outdoor adventure playground in the muddy outdoors, scramble through trees, crooked bridges and swing over the fast flowing Crocky stream. Wear old clothes because if you trip, fall or slip, you're only going one way - into the mud.  Location deets here.

Free stuff in the capital  London needn’t break the bank. If you’re holidaying in the UK, take advantage of the capital’s abundant supply of culture, art, galleries and museums. The best bit, all the world-class exhibits are free. Thank goodness for UK tax payers.  Here are six of our favourite free museums and galleries. Venture into Game of Thrones in misty Northern Ireland With its craggy coastline and perpetual grey sky, Northern Ireland makes the perfect location for  Game of Thrones . Head to County Antrim for the 820-acre walled demesne of Castle Ward, AKA Winterfell. Have a super cheap picnic Take advantage of a competitive UK 'meal deal'. Pop into any major supermarket (Tesco, Sainsburys), Boots or Marks & Spencer and pick up a sandwich/wrap, drink and snack for three quid. Roughly $6. A nice cheap option for a picnic.  Find a a shamrock in your Guinness froth At the The Dirty Onion (3 Hill Street, Belfast). As a former warehouse for Jameson Whiskey, this pre-1720 abode is one of the oldest buildings in the city and now plays host to some of the best live Irish bands in the city. There is also plenty of Guinness – complete with a shamrock in your froth

14 | The UK for kids

Similar to NZ, attractions for children may be numerous, but they don’t always come cheap. Many of London’s museums, plenty of which are ‘hands-on’ do offer free admittance, but that also makes them popular (read as busy). Family passes for most big attractions are common, but with enough research you can still find some free castles to visit (relics especially), and with plenty of parks, lakes, rivers and canals, you can easily find a cost-free pretty spot. Unique to the UK, canal locks are generally quite fascinating for kids – and won’t cost a penny. Most pubs are child friendly but it’s not uncommon to find an “over 18s only” sign, and they’ll be quite strict about it.  

14 |  The UK for kids

Similar to NZ, attractions for children may be numerous, but they don’t always come cheap. Many of London’s museums, plenty of which are ‘hands-on’ do offer free admittance, but that also makes them popular (read as busy). Family passes for most big attractions are common, but with enough research you can still find some free castles to visit (relics especially), and with plenty of parks, lakes, rivers and canals, you can easily find a cost-free pretty spot. Unique to the UK, canal locks are generally quite fascinating for kids – and won’t cost a penny. Most pubs are child friendly but it’s not uncommon to find an “over 18s only” sign, and they’ll be quite strict about it. 

15 |  What adapter do I need s?

In the UK the power sockets are type G. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. The plugs are a three-pronged formation.

UK & Europe deals every day of the week. Now you know everything you need to know about the UK, find yourself a great UK deal. 

In the pub and if it’s summer, the beer garden. When in doubt (or bored) the British descend on their local, but they’re not all burning log fires and craft beer; for as many quintessentially homely public houses, there are absolute dives. Stick your head in first and take a quick peek. You might also want to take in a footie match; the difference between the atmosphere at a rugby game and the football is profound. But don’t expect to be seated with the rival team; matches get very competitive, and at times heated, but embrace the chants because it’s all part of the 90 minutes. Go shopping because the British love it, plus the prices are cheaper than NZ, and try a slab of UK Cadbury’s and exclaim at the difference. And of course, partake in both afternoon tea (you’ll discover NZ teabags are sub-par) and a Sunday roast. You haven’t really experienced Britain until you’ve had a Yorkshire pudding. Try and find somewhere selling homemade Yorkshires; frozen just won’t cut it.     

In the pub and if it’s summer, the beer garden. When in doubt (or bored) the British descend on their local, but they’re not all burning log fires and craft beer; for as many quintessentially homely public houses, there are absolute dives. Stick your head in first and take a quick peek. You might also want to take in a footie match; the difference between the atmosphere at a rugby game and the football is profound. But don’t expect to be seated with the rival team; matches get very competitive, and at times heated, but embrace the chants because it’s all part of the 90 minutes. Go shopping because the British love it, plus the prices are cheaper than NZ, and try a slab of UK Cadbury’s and exclaim at the difference. And of course, partake in both afternoon tea (you’ll discover NZ teabags are sub-par) and a Sunday roast. You haven’t really experienced Britain until you’ve had a Yorkshire pudding. Try and find somewhere selling homemade Yorkshires; frozen just won’t cut it.  

Read more about UK here.

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Can I travel to New Zealand? Entry requirements explained

Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning a visit down under.

N ew Zealand, alongside its neighbour Australia , employed one of the strictest Covid policies across the world, and froze out visitors for most of the pandemic. Even Kiwis themselves have found it difficult to return to their homeland due to a limited hotel quarantine system. But the country has now removed all of its Covid travel restrictions making it much easier for tourists to visit.

For travellers heading to New Zealand in the near future though, there’s a more pressing concern: cyclones. Cyclone Gabrielle is currently over the country causing flooding and power outages. Some communities have been cut off entirely, and the death toll is now up to eight. Here’s what you need to know.

Main photo: Lake Wanaka on New Zealand’s South Island (Getty Images)

How Cyclone Gabrielle is affecting travel

Cyclone Gabrielle made landfall in New Zealand as a subtropical storm on February 11 and has since been causing widespread damage and destruction. North Island has been particularly badly affected, with severe flooding, power cuts, and remote communities completely cut off. The storms then moved to South Island before leaving New Zealand on February 15. Several regions in the country have declared a state of emergency, including Northland, Auckland, Tairawhiti, Bay of Plenty, Waikato, Hawkes Bay and Tararua.

Although Cyclone Gabrielle has left New Zealand, there are still heavy rains and cleanup efforts are ongoing. After temporarily halting all flights, air traffic in New Zealand has been restored — although some services are still subject to cancellations or delays. On the ground, getting around can still be difficult, especially if you’re travelling to remote areas. You should keep an eye on the National Emergency Management Agency ’s website for the latest advice.

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If you’re due to travel soon, speak to your tour operator or travel company. Some, such as Air New Zealand, are offering free amends if you want to postpone your trip. There are no travel warnings from the UK Foreign Office but flooding in some areas can significantly impact any travel plans.

• How will hurricanes affect my holiday?

Can I travel to New Zealand?

New Zealand is now open to everyone, whether vaccinated or not. There is no longer a need to self-isolate on arrival, regardless of where you’ve travelled from, and no health declaration forms to fill in. Other Covid-era restrictions that have been scrapped include the mask mandate in supermarkets and public transport. For health facilities such as hospitals, you’ll still need a mask.

If you test positive for Covid while in the country, you’d still need to self-isolate for seven days. And while New Zealand has relaxed its Covid travel restrictions, you should still double check the restrictions for the airline or cruise ship you’re travelling with as these may have different rules. The same applies to major events and certain public spaces, which can set their own rules.

• Best things to do in New Zealand

• Best time to visit New Zealand

Can I visit if I’m unvaccinated?

Yes. There are no additional requirements for visitors who are unvaccinated.

Do I need a visa?

No, but British visitors do require a visa waiver known as a NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority). You can apply for this online, and it grants UK tourists access for up to six months. It takes up to 72 hours to process (although in reality it often takes much less time than this) and costs NZ$12 online, or $9 via the app.

Additional reporting by Qin Xie.

• When can I travel to Australia from the UK?

• Can I travel to Spain? The entry requirements explained

Take me there

Inspired to visit New Zealand but yet to book your trip? Here are the best places to stay from Expedia and VRBO .

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

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New Zealand tightens visa rules after migration hits ‘unsustainable’ levels

Net migration to New Zealand hit a near record high in 2023 after a new temporary work visa was introduced after the pandemic

New Zealand will tighten its visa rules for some migrants as the coalition government moves to overhaul the immigration system it says has led to “unsustainable” levels of migration.

Last year, annual net migration to New Zealand hit a near record high of more than 173,000 non-New Zealand citizens in the year to December, Stats NZ reported .

Immigration minister Erica Stanford announced on Sunday changes to the accredited employer worker visa (AEWV), the main temporary work visa, which was introduced in mid-2022 to help fill workforce shortages after the pandemic.

The government’s changes to the scheme would include introducing English-language requirements for low-skilled jobs and setting a minimum skills and work experience threshold for most employer work visas. The maximum continuous stay for most low-skilled roles will also be reduced to three years from five years.

The changes would be immediate, she said.

“The government is focused on attracting and retaining the highly skilled migrants such as secondary teachers, where there is a skill shortage,” Stanford said in a statement. “At the same time we need to ensure that New Zealanders are put to the front of the line for jobs where there are no skills shortages.”

New Zealand, which has a population of about 5.1 million, has seen a rapid growth in migrant numbers since the end of the pandemic, raising concerns last year that it was fanning inflation. A Reserve Bank-commissioned report released last month into the possible links between migration levels and inflation was inconclusive.

Stanford said the changes would also reduce the vulnerability of migrants to exploitation.

In February, the Public Service Commission released its review of the AEWV scheme, which former immigration minister Andrew Little ordered after complaints of exploitation. The commission found that a small number of “unscrupulous employers” targeted the scheme and took payments from people wanting to move to New Zealand.

“By having an English-language requirement migrants will be better able to understand their rights or raise concerns about an employer early,” Stanford said.

The government had scrapped plans to add 11 new roles to the Green List – a list of highly skilled roles that New Zealand is struggling to fill – including welders, and fitters and turners.

Neighbouring Australia, which has also seen a big increase in migration, has said it would halve its migrant intake over the next two years.

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Already planning to see the next solar eclipse in 2026? What travelers need to know.

Umbraphiles feeling the post-eclipse blues should start checking the expiration date on their passports.

The next total solar eclipse is set to happen on Aug. 12, 2026, over Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia and a small part of Portugal, according to NASA . 

In North America, only a partial eclipse will be visible, so if April’s event made you an eclipse chaser and you want to see totality, you’ll need to head overseas.

Here’s what you’ll need to know before packing your bags:

Do you need a passport or visa for the best destination?

The path of totality for the 2026 eclipse mostly goes through places Americans can travel visa-free with their passport, so long as they’re planning to stay for less than 90 days.

Spain, Portugal, Iceland and Greenland all allow visa-free tourist travel for U.S. passport holders.

Spain, Portugal and Iceland are also members of the Schengen Area, which allows for visa-free travel in much of Europe, meaning if you decide to make a multi-country trip out of your eclipse adventure, you won’t need to clear customs if you’re coming from much of the rest of Europe, either.

One major change for travelers to Europe from the U.S., however, is that electronic preauthorization will become a requirement beginning in mid-2025. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) requirement will apply to all four open countries in the path of totality. 

Depending on the state of the Ukraine war, travel to Russia may or may not be an option for most Americans by 2026, so it’s unclear what the paperwork requirements will be by then.

Is it better to see it from the beach?

Beaches can be a great place to see the eclipse because there are few natural obstacles blocking observers’ views of the sky. The 2026 path of totality passes over beaches on Spain’s northern and southeastern coasts, as well as over islands in the Mediterranean Sea including Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza. The eclipse will also pass over coastal areas in Greenland and Iceland, according to the National Solar Observatory . 

Cruising Altitude: What it was like to see the eclipse from a plane

Will there be eclipse cruises or flights?

Almost certainly, although most operators have not announced specific plans yet. 

Cruise lines will also offer more viewing opportunities. Princess Cruises “has created a bespoke itinerary aboard Sky Princess to position the ship near Spain on that date,” according to a spokesperson for the line. The cruise will open for bookings on Princess’s website on May 23.

Cunard Line has sailings on its Queen Mary 2 , Queen Victoria and Queen Anne vessels that will put passengers in prime spots to watch .

'The ship can move': Why you should watch next solar eclipses from a cruise ship

Holland America Line is also planning multiple sailings around the event, though details are still to be announced. “Guests have reacted positively to our 2024 eclipse cruises and with the next full eclipse in 2026 we plan to have three sailings in Europe that will align with the path of the eclipse,” Paul Grigsby, the line's vice president of Deployment & Itinerary Planning, previously told USA TODAY in an email.

UK’s worst airport for delayed flights named and shamed

The worst airports in the UK for flight delays last year have been ranked.

The average delay for flights across all airports was almost 20 minutes and 42 seconds, down from 23 minutes and 12 seconds in 2022, when the aviation sector struggled to cope with a surge in demand for holidays following the end of coronavirus travel restrictions.

The analysis took into account all scheduled and chartered departures from the 22 commercial UK airports with at least 1,000 outbound flights last year. Cancellations were not included.

Departures from the Gatwick were an average of nearly 27 minutes behind schedule in 2023, according to analysis of Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) data by the PA news agency.

The airport, which is the second-busiest in the UK, was badly affected by air traffic control (ATC) staff shortages across Europe last year, and repeatedly suffered the same problem in its own control tower.

Gatwick said in a statement it is “working closely with our airline partners to improve on-time performance”.

Luton airport had the second poorest punctuality record last year, with an average delay of almost 23 minutes.

In third place was Manchester airport , at nearly 22 minutes.

Belfast City (George Best) airport had the best performance, with a typical delay of 12-and-a-half minutes.

Naomi Leach, deputy editor of consumer magazine Which? Travel, said: “It’s clear from these latest figures that millions of passengers continued to experience unacceptably long hold-ups last year.

“This cannot be allowed to become the new normal.”

CAA director Tim Johnson said it is vital the aviation sector “focuses on resilience” ahead of the summer holiday period to “keep passenger disruption to a minimum”.

He added: “Where people do find themselves facing disruption, we want them to be well-informed about the duty of care that they are entitled to.”

Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of Advantage Travel Partnership, a network of independent travel agents, said flight disruption is “always incredibly frustrating”.

She continued: “Any delay can have significant knock-on effects to both leisure and business travellers.

“With millions of Brits set to travel abroad this summer, it’s vital for the UK’s airports alongside all parts of the travel eco-system to continually work together to ensure the system is as efficient as it can be.”

When flights are significantly delayed or cancelled, airlines are required under consumer laws to provide passengers with assistance such as refreshments, a means of communication and overnight accommodation if required.

If the cause of disruption is under an airline’s control, passengers are also due compensation of up to £520 depending on the length of the delay and the distance of the flight.

But air traffic control (ATC) issues are generally considered to be an “extraordinary circumstance”, meaning affected passengers are not entitled to payouts.

Gatwick said in a statement: “As the most efficient single runway airport in the world, we aim to deliver a seamless passenger experience.

“The majority of cancellations are caused by poor weather, airspace constraints across Europe and inefficient third party ground operations.

“We are working closely with our airline partners to improve on-time performance.

“In addition, we have published a six-year capital investment programme setting out significant improvements to develop and enhance infrastructure and facilities to build the resilience of the airport.”

A spokesperson for trade body the Airport Operators Association said: “Airports work extremely hard to minimise delays while providing a positive, safe and secure experience for passengers.

“These figures do not provide any of the context around operating in a global environment and do not give the travelling public a clear picture of how air travel operates.”

Gatwick imposed a temporary cap on flights in September 2023 in an attempt to reduce the number of short-notice cancellations and delays due to staff shortages in its ATC tower.

From news to politics, travel to sport, culture to climate – The Independent has a host of free newsletters to suit your interests. To find the stories you want to read, and more, in your inbox, click here .

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