New Zealand Fan's Guide to Cricket World Cup 2027
South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe. Everything you need to plan the trip of a lifetime.
Add a safari to your cricket trip
Three host nations means three of Africa's finest wildlife destinations — all accessible from the tournament cities.
South Africa
Kruger · Sabi Sand · Madikwe
Kruger National Park is 20,000 km² of Big Five country, 5 hours from Johannesburg.
Namibia
Etosha · Damaraland · Sossusvlei
Etosha waterholes attract extraordinary concentrations of wildlife. Sossusvlei dunes are unlike anywhere on earth.
Zimbabwe
Hwange · Mana Pools · Victoria Falls
Hwange supports Africa's largest elephant herds. Victoria Falls is one of the world's great natural wonders.
Host countries overview
Each country offers a completely different experience.
South Africa
The tournament's primary host
Home to the most host cities. World-class cricket infrastructure, iconic grounds and excellent connections via Perth or Australia.
Namibia
Desert wilderness and dramatic landscapes
The Namib Desert, Etosha National Park and red dunes of Sossusvlei alongside cricket. A genuinely unique destination.
Zimbabwe
Classic Africa and genuine adventure
Victoria Falls, Hwange's elephant herds and Harare's warm hospitality. New Zealand played their first Test in Zimbabwe in 1992.
Best cities for Kiwi fans
Each city has a distinct personality. Here is where to base yourself.
Cape Town
South Africa
Newlands sits beneath Table Mountain — arguably the most scenic cricket ground in the world. Similar timezone to NZ summer evenings.
Johannesburg
South Africa
The most connected airport from New Zealand via Perth or Sydney. The Wanderers is one of cricket's most electric atmospheres.
Durban
South Africa
Warm beaches, excellent surfing, and Kingsmead cricket ground. A relaxed coastal vibe that Kiwis will appreciate.
Harare
Zimbabwe
A welcoming city with a powerful cricket legacy. Pair a match at Harare Sports Club with a Victoria Falls trip.
Windhoek
Namibia
A clean, safe and cosmopolitan African capital. Gateway to Etosha and the Namib Desert.
Getting there from New Zealand
There are no direct flights from New Zealand to South Africa. All routes connect via Perth, Sydney, Singapore, or Dubai.
Qantas (via Perth or Sydney) · Singapore Airlines (via Singapore)
19–24 hours including connection
Qantas (via Perth/Sydney + JNB) · Emirates (via Dubai)
22–28 hours including connections
Qantas (via Sydney) · Air New Zealand + partner (via Perth)
20–26 hours including connections
Qantas (via Sydney) · Singapore Airlines (via Singapore)
21–27 hours including connections
Before you book
- Qantas via Perth offers the quickest connection — around 19–20 hours total travel time.
- Consider flexible tickets — the full tournament schedule is not yet confirmed.
- Fly into Johannesburg first — the most connected airport and natural tournament base.
- Book early — Kiwi cricket fans travel well and accommodation fills up fast.
Where to stay
All three host nations offer accommodation across every price point. Stadium-adjacent hotels fill up fast during major events.
Browse HotelsTravel cost guide
Realistic estimates to help you plan. All prices in NZD are approximate.
Return Flights
NZ$2,500 – NZ$8,000
Economy to Business class via Perth, Sydney or Singapore. Book early for best availability.
Hotels (per night)
NZ$80 – NZ$600+
Budget guesthouses to five-star. Stadium-adjacent hotels command a premium during tournaments.
Safari (2–3 days)
NZ$500 – NZ$5,000+
Day trips from Johannesburg to full private lodge experiences. Options across all budgets.
Daily expenses
NZ$50 – NZ$200
South Africa offers excellent value for Kiwi travellers. Rand is favourable against NZD.
Match tickets
Not yet announced
The ICC has not released ticket pricing for CWC 2027. Register at icc-cricket.com for updates.
Before you book from New Zealand
Planning your Cricket World Cup 2027 trip early can help avoid delays, unexpected travel issues, and last-minute costs. Here are some important things Kiwi travellers should check before booking.
Check the latest visa requirements and, if needed, apply online through CricketVision's official visa partner, Atlys. Eligibility depends on your nationality and destination.
Check visa requirements with AtlysTravel requirements can change at any time. Always confirm official visa, passport, health, airline, and immigration requirements through the relevant authorities before booking or travelling.
What is not yet confirmed
CricketVision2027 only publishes verified information. Here is what has not been officially announced.
Official match schedule
The ICC has not released the full CWC 2027 match schedule. Fixture allocations are not confirmed.
Ticket pricing and release dates
Ticket prices and sale timelines have not been announced. Be cautious of third-party sites claiming to sell tickets now.
New Zealand match venues
Specific venue allocations for Black Caps fixtures have not been confirmed by the ICC.
Visa fee changes
Visa requirements can change. Always verify current requirements with the relevant embassy before applying.
We update this guide as official information becomes available. Check our news section for the latest.