New Zealand Travel Tips

Before you arrive

Passport

For citizens of most countries it's only neccessary to hold a passport which is valid for 3 months beyond the intended date of leaving the country. Most visitors do not require a visa if they are just visiting for a short time. If you need more detailed information we recommend you to contact the NZ Immigration

Language

English is the common and official language of New Zealand. Maori is the second official language.

Vaccinations

No vaccination certificates are required when entering New Zealand.

Insurance

The New Zealand Accident Compensation Scheme covers visitors for personal injuries caused by accident, this does not include loss of earnings outside of New Zealand. We highly recommend a travel insurance.

Getting to New Zealand

Many international airlines fly directly to New Zealand. Air New Zealand, New Zealand's major airline, services major overseas destinations and the Pacific Islands.There are international airports in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin and at the resort town of Queenstown.

When you are here

Time Difference

New Zealand standard time is GMT plus 12 hours. There are no time differences within New Zealand. Daylight saving pushes clocks forward 1 hour from the beginning of October until the end of March.

Climate

The north of New Zealand is mainly subtropical while the south is temperate. The warmest months are December through to March, and the coldest, from June to August. The average maximum temperatures range between 23 - 28C (68 - 77F) in summer and 10 - 15C (50 - 60F) in winter.

Money and Banking

All major credit cards are accepted. Trading banks are open from 9.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays. ATMs are widely available. New Zealand's unit of currency is the New Zealand dollar, comprising of coins with values of 5, 10, 20, 50 cents, $1 and $2; and notes with values of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100. Please refer to the currency converter to check the exchange rate.

Electricity

Electricity is supplied throughout New Zealand at 230/240 volts (50 hertz), although most hotels and motels provide 110 volt AC sockets (rated at 20 watts) for electric razors only.

Driving

Most foreign driver licences are acceptable in New Zealand. New Zealanders drive on the left, give way to all traffic crossing or approaching from the right. Most rental car companies will provide a short list of the more important rules. Here you can find the official New Zealand Road Code.

Departure Fees

An airport departure fee of between NZ$20 - 25, depending on the airport, is required from all passengers over 12 years old.

Consulates and Embassies

Most countries have an Embassy, High Commission or Consulate in New Zealand.

Goods and Services Tax

All goods and services purchased in New Zealand are subject to 12.5% GST, which is generally included in the displayed price