As a New Zealand citizen venturing to Russia, securing a visa is a mandatory step, with options ranging from tourist and business visas to student and work permits, each with its own application nuances. Flights often route through hubs like Dubai or Istanbul, so factor in potential layover times and the significant 12-hour time difference between Auckland and Moscow. While your stay duration can be extended with certain visa types, remember that obtaining a Russian visa typically involves a processing fee and can take up to 30 days, so plan well in advance of your intended travel dates.