Travelling to Singapore from New Zealand: Everything You Need to Know

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The Remitly editorial team is a global group of writers and editors passionate about helping Kiwis thrive in New Zealand and beyond.

Key Highlights

People from New Zealand travelling to Singapore do not need a visa for short trips.
You can fly straight to Singapore from Auckland, so your trip starts easy.
Make sure you book your SG Arrival Card before you leave. This helps you avoid hold-ups.
It’s best to get travel insurance so you can be relaxed in case the stuff goes wrong.
Visit famous places like Sentosa Island and Gardens by the Bay when you are in Singapore.
The visa requirements are simple, but always check the latest rules before you head out.

Introduction

Are you looking for a lively trip to a big city? Singapore is one of the best places in Southeast Asia you can go. The city has lots of fun things to see, tall buildings that look amazing, and nice food from many cultures. If you are travelling from New Zealand, you will find it to be not too long a flight from home. This guide is here to help you get ready for the trip, book your flight, and see the top spots while you are there. Get set for a great time in one of Asia’s most exciting cities!

Entry and Visa Requirements for New Zealanders in Singapore

Getting into Singapore is easy for Kiwis. If you have a New Zealand passport, things go smoothly most of the time. You usually don’t need a Singapore visa if you are going there for a short visit. Still, you should check the latest rules on the Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website before you travel.

In this section, you will find out about the rules for going into Singapore without a visa, how to fill out the SG Arrival Card, and any health checks you should know about. Staying up-to-date with these entry requirements will help your holiday begin without trouble.

Visa-free Entry for New Zealand Passport Holders

Good news for people with a New Zealand passport! You can go to Singapore without a visa and stay for up to 90 days. This makes it easy to plan a trip or stopover. Make sure the passport you use will be good for at least six months from the day you arrive.

You do not need a visa for short visits, but you must meet some other entry requirements. You must show a confirmed return ticket or proof of leaving, have enough money to last your duration of stay, and have a valid travel document.

In some cases like staying for work or for a long time, you may need a visa or a letter of introduction. But if you want to go for tourism, these rules make it clear and simple for New Zealand passport holders. It is wise to check the latest rules before you travel.

Applying for an SG Arrival Card

All travellers, even if you come from New Zealand, have to fill out an SG Arrival Card (SGAC) before you go into Singapore. The SGAC is an online health form. It has taken the place of the old paper arrival card. It is a quick form that helps singapore immigration keep track of who is coming in.

You can send in your SGAC up to three days before you arrive. Doing this does not cost anything, and you should use the official Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website. Keep away from other sites that might try to make you pay for this.

When you finish the form, you get an email to say you’re done. Hold onto it, either on your phone or printed out. You might need to show it when you get there. Filling out your SGAC before you travel will help things go well at the singapore immigration.

COVID-19 Health and Entry Restrictions

Singapore has made it much easier for travellers to enter the country. Right now, most foreign visitors do not need to show proof of vaccination to get in. This change in entry requirements helps you plan your trip better and with less stress than during the time of the pandemic.

But rules can still change. It is smart to look at the latest entry requirements on the Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website before you book and again before you travel. This lets you know you are following the most up-to-date rules from the singapore immigration office.

Even though most COVID-19 restrictions are gone, all travellers must still fill out the SG Arrival Card and answer health questions. Keeping up with health advice will help make your trip smooth and safe.

Booking Flights from New Zealand to Singapore

Getting from New Zealand to Singapore is easy. There are many flight choices. Air New Zealand has daily direct flights from Auckland. This makes your trip simple and quick. The whole flight takes about 11 hours. So you can reach Singapore fast.

If you are not in Auckland, you can fly from other cities like Wellington or Christchurch. You can catch a domestic flight to Auckland first. Then you go to Singapore from there. We will talk about the direct flights, layover routes, and what you get in different travel classes.

Direct Flight Options from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch

Air New Zealand is the primary carrier offering direct flights from New Zealand to Singapore. These non-stop services operate daily from Auckland, with an increased frequency of two flights per day between April and October. This gives you great flexibility when planning your travel dates.

If you’re based in Wellington or Christchurch, you can easily connect to the Auckland service with a short domestic flight. This seamless connection makes it simple to start your Singapore adventure from anywhere in the country. The direct flight significantly reduces travel time, allowing you to begin your holiday sooner.

Here’s a quick look at the direct flight options:

Airline	Departure City	Arrival City	Frequency	Approximate Flight Duration
Air New Zealand	Auckland	Singapore	Daily (Twice daily from April to October)	11 hours

Popular Connecting Airports and Layover Tips

If a direct flight does not fit your plans or costs too much, you can pick from many good choices that include a stop. Flying through another big city can help you find cheaper fares, or let you add a second place to visit on your way to Singapore.

Popular airports for connecting flights from New Zealand are big ones in Australia like Sydney and Melbourne. You will also see common stops in Asia, including Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, and Tokyo. These airports welcome transit passengers, and have lots of shops, places to eat, and lounges where you can rest.

To make the most of your stop along the way, you may want to keep these tips in mind:

Check if you have enough time between flights to step out of the airport and have a fast look at the city.
Use airport lounges so you can wait in more comfort and peace.
Pack things you need, such as a change of clothes and your toiletries, in your carry-on bag.
Take time to look at what the airport has for you—many airports, such as Changi, are fun and interesting places on their own.

Luggage Allowance and Travel Class Insights

When you fly with Air New Zealand to Singapore, your luggage allowance will change based on the travel class you choose. You should check the rules for luggage before you pack your bags. This way, you won’t be caught out by extra charges at the airport. Most of the time, the higher your travel class, the more baggage you get.

Air New Zealand has different travel classes to match your needs and what you want to spend. You can go with Economy, which has the well-known Economy Skycouch™ for more space. If you want to feel a bit more comfy on the flight, you can upgrade to Premium Economy. For those wanting a true luxury trip, Business Premier™ gives you a lie-flat bed and special service.

Here’s a simple look at what you get:

Economy: This is a good choice if you want comfort and a fair price for a long flight.
Economy Stretch: This gives you more room for your legs, making it more comfortable.
Premium Economy: You get a larger seat, more space for your legs, and better meals.
Business Premier™: Try the best of the best with lie-flat beds and top-level extras.

This is what Air New Zealand has for you on flights to Singapore.

Travel Insurance and Essential Preparations

Singapore is a very safe place to visit. Still, it is a good idea to get travel insurance. The right cover will help protect you if you have a medical problem, if your trip gets cancelled, or if you lose your bags. This helps you have peace of mind on your trip.

There are a few other things to sort out for your trip. Make sure you follow key health advice, get the right shots, and pack what you need. If you take care of these things before you go, your time in Singapore can be smooth and easy.

Recommended Travel Insurance for Singapore Trips

Choosing the right travel insurance is an important part of getting ready for your trip to Singapore. It is not required by law, but it is very helpful if something goes wrong. Medical care can cost a lot of money for foreign visitors who get sick or hurt in Singapore, so it’s good to have cover for your medical needs.

A strong travel insurance plan should help you with more than just health problems. Try to find one that will pay you back if your trip is cancelled or stopped, especially when these things happen all of a sudden. It should also protect you if your bag or other bits and pieces get lost or stolen, and help you with any personal liability issues.

When you are picking a plan, make sure it gives you:

High medical cover for sickness and accidents.
Support if your trip gets cancelled or has long delays.
Cover for your luggage and other things you take with you.
Emergency help, day or night.

When you book your flights on our website, you can add travel insurance right there. That way, it is quick and fits in well with the rest of your plans.

Health Precautions and Vaccinations Needed

Before you go to Singapore, it’s smart to talk with your doctor or a travel clinic. They can tell you what vaccines you may need for your trip. If you are going from New Zealand, there are no vaccine rules you have to follow. Still, it’s good to check that all your shots are up to date.

Singapore is warm and humid. The weather can bring mosquitoes. You may not find many problems from dengue fever in the main areas most travellers visit. But you should still protect yourself. Be sure to use bug spray when you go out in the early morning or late afternoon. You can also wear long shirts and pants.

COVID-19 shots are not needed for most travellers to Singapore now. Still, rules can change any time, so look at the latest health guide from the officials before you fly. Drink enough water and wash your hands often. These habits will help keep you well during your time away from New Zealand.

Preparing Documents and Packing Tips

Getting your documents sorted is an important part of getting ready for your trip. You should check your passport to be sure it has at least six months left from when you plan to go into Singapore. It is smart to keep both digital and paper copies of your key travel papers. These should include your passport, your flight itinerary, and booking papers for your hotel.

When you pack your bag, the best idea is to bring clothes that are light and let air go through. Singapore has high humidity and the weather stays warm most of the time, with the day heat getting to about 30°C. Pack clothes that are made of easy and soft fabric like cotton or linen. This helps you stay cool and comfy. Bring swim gear too, as many hotels in Singapore have great pools that you may want to try.

Here are a few key things you will need to pack when you visit Singapore:

Lightweight and airy clothes.
Shoes that are easy to walk in for when you see the city.
Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun safety.
A reusable water bottle to help you keep cool in the heat.

Currency, Money Exchange, and Payment Methods

The main currency in Singapore is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). Most shops take major credit and debit cards. Even so, it’s good to carry some local cash for small buys at hawker centres or markets. You can swap your New Zealand Dollar (NZD) for SGD either before you leave or once you get to Singapore.

When and where you change your money can make a big difference to how much you get for your dollar. This section will help you look at the good and bad points of swapping your cash in New Zealand or in Singapore. It also gives some tips on using cards and ATMs.

Should You Exchange New Zealand Dollars Before Departure?

Deciding if you should swap your New Zealand Dollars for Singapore Dollars before you travel depends on what you want more – ease or the best deal. If you change a bit of money in New Zealand before you go, you will have some cash ready to pay for a taxi or small things as soon as you get there.

But, you can often get a better rate if you wait and change money after you arrive in Singapore. Many money changers in Singapore city malls and at the airport have good rates and low fees. This can help your New Zealand Dollar go a bit further.

Here’s a short guide to help you pick what works best:

Exchanging in NZ: Good for getting your hands on cash as soon as you land.
Exchanging in Singapore: You can often get a better deal on rates.
ATMs in Singapore: These are useful if you want to take out cash when you need it.
Tip: Try not to change heaps of money at airport kiosks. The rates there are not as good as what you will find in the city.

This way, you can choose the best option for you when going between New Zealand and Singapore.

Using Cards and ATMs in Singapore

Using your credit and debit cards in Singapore is very easy. People in the city use cards like Visa and Mastercard almost everywhere. You can use them in hotels, nice restaurants, and big shops. This means you do not have to carry lots of cash. Managing what you spend is simple and safe.

There are also ATMs all over Singapore. You will find them at Changi Airport, in shopping malls, and close to MRT stations. If you need Singapore Dollars, you can use these ATMs. The rate is often good. But, before you go from New Zealand, talk to your bank. Check if there are any extra fees for using your card overseas or for getting cash.

Many people like to use cards most of the time. Still, it is smart to keep some cash with you. You may need cash at small food places, at markets, or if you go to hawker centres which are something you must not miss in Singapore if you love to eat. Having both cards and cash helps you get by in all places.

Singapore Currency: Cash, Coins, and Payment Apps

The money in Singapore is made up of dollars and cents, just like in New Zealand. The notes are $2, $5, $10, $50, and $100. The coins come in 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, and there is also a $1 coin. The bright notes, called the “Portrait Series,” have a picture of Singapore’s first president on them.

Even though cash is still handy, Singapore is one of the top places for cashless payments. Many people and shops there use payment apps to buy things every day. These payment apps are set up for people with local bank accounts, but if you are a tourist, credit cards are the easiest way to pay, especially in busy places like Orchard Road.

For travellers, it is good to have different ways to pay. Use your credit card for bigger things like your hotel or shopping trips. But you should also keep some cash and coins handy for buses and trains, meals at hawker centres, or when you want to buy smaller gifts and snacks. This way, you will always be ready, no matter what kind of payment you need to make.

Top Attractions & Activities in Singapore

Singapore has many great places to visit, and you will find something for everyone. You can see the famous skyline at Marina Bay. There are also exciting rides at Universal Studios Singapore on Sentosa Island. There is always something to get up to, see, or do in this city.

At Gardens by the Bay, you can stand and look up at the glowing Supertrees. There is also a lot of art to see at the National Gallery Singapore.

The city mixes nature, technology, and culture for a one-of-a-kind trip. In the next parts, you will get to know the must-visit sights. You will also see the best cultural things to do, along with top spots to shop, eat, and have fun at night.

Must-visit Sights for First-time Visitors

If you are visiting Singapore for the first time, you have to see some of the top sights. The best place to start is Marina Bay Sands. This is a building that has a rooftop infinity pool and an observation deck. You can go up to the deck and see wide views of the city. Right next to it is Gardens by the Bay. This is a park that looks like it is from the future, with the Supertree Grove and cool indoor domes.

For more to do, you can go to Sentosa Island. This is the best spot if you want some fun. You can have a great time at Universal Studios Singapore, get up close with ocean life at the S.E.A. Aquarium, or have a rest at one of the sandy beaches. If you love art and history, you should visit National Gallery Singapore. This place has the biggest public collection of Southeast Asian art in the world.

Here are a few top picks for first-timers:

Gardens by the Bay: Walk around inside the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome.
Marina Bay Sands SkyPark: Go for the views of the city skyline. They are amazing.
Universal Studios Singapore: If you like movies or rides, this is a must.
Orchard Road: This is the best place in Singapore for shopping.

Unique Experiences and Cultural Highlights

Singapore is known for its big landmarks, but the real charm comes from how many cultures live together in the city. You can see this mix by walking around the lively areas where different groups of people live. In Little India, the streets are bright, you can smell spicy food, and hear Bollywood music. You can also go to Chinatown, where you will find old temples and shophouses.

If you want to know more about the history, the National Museum of Singapore is a good spot. It has fun and interesting things to see that show Singapore’s story from the past to now. The hawker centres are also worth a visit. Here, you can taste real local dishes from many groups of people in Singapore, all in one place. These busy food courts are the heart of eating in Singapore.

Don’t miss these cultural highlights:

Chinatown: Check out the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Maxwell Food Centre.
Little India: Go see the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and buy some bright silks.
Kampong Gelam: Learn about Malay heritage and find trendy shops.
Hawker Centres: Eat tasty and affordable meals just like the locals do.

Shopping, Dining, and Nightlife Recommendations

Singapore is a great place for shopping, food, and fun nights out. Orchard Road is a top spot for people who love to shop. You will find many big name stores, fancy brands, and a lot of shops in this 2.2-kilometre-long street. If you want to see something different, try Haji Lane for quirky stores. You can also check out the busy markets in Chinatown for a new shopping feel.

In Singapore, food is a big deal. There is the best of both worlds: fancy Michelin-star spots and simple food from hawker stalls. Try some local things, like Hainanese Chicken Rice, Chilli Crab, and Laksa. If you want a good night out, have dinner at a rooftop place with views over the heart of the city.

When the day ends, the nightlife in Singapore starts. Clarke Quay and Boat Quay are both in the heart of the city along the Singapore River. These areas are full of bars, pubs, and clubs that people go to for a good time.

Shopping: Walk and shop at the malls along orchard road.
Dining: You can try the Michelin-starred street food at Liao Fan Hawker Chan.
Nightlife: Have a drink at a rooftop bar with a view of marina bay.
Local Food: You must try the fish head curry when you visit little india.

You will find a lot to do, see, and eat

Navigating Singapore: Getting Around

Getting around Singapore is easy with its top public transport system. The city has many ways to travel, so it is simple and affordable to see new places. The MRT in Singapore is fast, clean, and takes people to most important spots on the island.

You can use the MRT if you want to travel quickly. Taxis and ride-share cars are good for ease and comfort. You can also get a bike or even join a walking group if you want to see the city at a slow pace. Singapore has something for everyone. Keep reading to find out how you can get around Singapore like someone who lives there.

Public Transport – MRT, Buses, and Taxis

Singapore has one of the best transport systems in the world. The MRT is the quickest and most reliable way to move about the city. It connects you to big places like Marina Bay, Chinatown, and Orchard Road. You can get to these spots with just a short walk from most MRT stations.

To make travel easy, use the Singapore Tourist Pass (STP). The Pass lets you ride the MRT and buses as many times as you want, for one, two, or three days. You are able to buy the Pass at the TransitLink Ticket Office in Changi Airport, or at some MRT stations in the city.

You can also take the bus. Buses help you reach spots where the MRT does not go. Taxis and ride-share cars give you a comfy way to travel from door to door.

MRT: Fast, reliable, and air-conditioned.
Singapore Tourist Pass: Lets you ride many buses and trains for one price.
Buses: Good for seeing Singapore in a more relaxed way.
Taxis: Easy to get but cost more in busy times.

Beyond using the main types of public transport, there are many good ways to see Singapore. The city now has more cycling paths. There are also lots of bike hire options. Renting a bike is a good way to be active while you look around areas like Marina Bay or the East Coast Park.

Walking tours can help you really get to know the city. You can join a group and learn about food, old buildings, or the story of the city. You can also go on your own. Many of the big sights are easy to reach with just a short walk, especially in the heart of the city. It is great if you want to visit different places in one day.

For times when you want private travel, ride-share services such as Grab are very common. They are simple to book.

Bike Hire: You can go through green spaces and see the waterfront.
Walking Tours: Find small surprises in little india, chinatown, and other cool parts of Singapore.
Ride-share: Use Grab and similar apps if you want a car right when you need it.
Hop-On Hop-Off Buses: Go at your own speed and stop to check out whatever sights you want.

You will find that singapore is easy to get around. Whether you walk from one spot to another with just a short walk in the heart of the city, or use these new ways, there is always something to see.

Conclusion

To sum up, going from New Zealand to Singapore can be a great adventure. You will get chances for new things to do and see. If you learn about the visa requirements, book your flights, and get ready well before you travel, your trip will go smoothly. Make sure you also check out the lively culture in Singapore. Try the tasty food. Visit some of the best places to see. Singapore has a lot for you and it never gets old. No matter if this is your first time or you have gone before, every visit can be special. If you want help with your plans or need advice about a visa, reach out to someone who knows. Enjoy your travels!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average flight time from New Zealand to Singapore?

A direct flight from Auckland, New Zealand to Singapore takes about 11 hours. This means the trip is long, but not too hard to handle. If you fly from other places in New Zealand or have stops in Australia or Asia, your travel time will be longer.

Is travel insurance really necessary for a trip from New Zealand to Singapore?

Travel insurance is a good idea for any trip from New Zealand to Singapore. Even though Singapore is safe, it’s smart to have cover for things like medical emergencies. These can be expensive. Insurance can also help if your trip is cancelled or you lose your bags. This way, you can have peace of mind on your journey.

Which airlines provide the most reliable service between New Zealand and Singapore?

Air New Zealand is well-known in New Zealand for good and reliable service. It has daily flights from Auckland to Singapore with no stops. The airline is the country’s main carrier. This gives travellers an easy and comfortable way to go from New Zealand to Singapore. Air New Zealand has strong safety records. Travellers can pick from different classes when they fly.