New Delhi, April 7 -- How do you plan a budget international vacation? Pick a destination with affordable flight options, book alternative lodgings at hotels, utilize public transport, and shortlist free or low-cost activities. One holiday destination that ticks very few boxes on this checklist is New Zealand.

Due to its geographical isolation, high cost of living, and long distances for inter-city commute, a holiday to the Kiwi land is prohibitively expensive for Indians. However, Mumbai-based Shashwat Luthra and Kriti Sinha have some cost-saving hacks from their vacation in New Zealand that helped the couple save costs on car rental, meals and activities.

As part of Mint's travel series, Shashwat shared how the couple had an 11-day ho...