Why come to New Zealand? Many visitors come for the spectacular scenery. Others visit for the wide range of activities, from hard core adrenalin through to quietly reconnecting with their families and the environment. New Zealand is a first world country, stable and welcoming to visitors. The environment is clean, unpolluted and uncrowded. English is the primary language and it's easy to get around, aided by good tourism infrastructure. Against most of the world's major currencies, New Zealand offers very good value for money. Travellers can come to New Zealand for a hundred holidays and have a totally different experience each time. Travellers who do visit New Zealand leave satisfied, passionate about 100% Pure New Zealand and are often keen to return.
Do visitors need a passport or visa to enter New Zealand? All visitors to New Zealand must carry a passport that is valid for at least three months from the date when they intend to leave New Zealand. Visas are not required for most visitors who are staying less than three months, including Australia, America, Austria, Canada, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, The Netherlands, Singapore, Switzerland and the UAE. United Kingdom visitors are able to holiday for six months without requiring a visa. However, it is always best to check requirements on the New Zealand Immigration Service website. For stays longer than three months, a Visitor's Visa maybe required.
Are vaccinations required to visit New Zealand?
No. New Zealand is virtually disease free and would like to stay that way, so visitors will encounter strict border controls on bringing animal, plant and food products into the country. More information can be obtained at www.customs.govt.nz
Is it safe to drink the water?
The water in our cities and towns is excellent and in all cases tap water is fresh and safe to drink. Outdoors, it's always a good idea to boil or treat water from rivers and lakes to be on the safe side.
Will ATM and credit cards work in New Zealand?
All major credit cards can be used in New Zealand and travellers cheques are accepted at hotels, banks and some stores. ATMs (automated teller machines) are plentiful, available 24 hours a day and can be found near banks, at airports, shopping centres and even some petrol stations. Credit and ATM cards can be used in New Zealand as long as they have been enabled for international transactions - check with your bank before leaving home.
What will my currency buy in New Zealand? Is there a sales tax?
Visitors travelling on the pound, US$, Euro and Yen will find their money goes a long way in New Zealand due to a favourable exchange rate. For example, a postcard to anywhere in the world costs NZ$1.50, a Big Mac hamburger meal NZ$4-5, and a cappuccino around NZ$3.
All goods and services are subject to a 12.5 percent Goods and Services Tax (GST) included in the displayed price. Visitors cannot claim this tax back, however when a supplier ships a major purchase to a visitor's home address the GST will not be charged.
What is the voltage of electricity supply in New Zealand?
Electricity is supplied at 230/240 volts (50 hertz). Most hotels and motels provide 110 volt AC sockets (rated 20 watts) for electric razors only. For all other equipment, an adapter/converter is necessary, unless the item has a multi-voltage option. New Zealand power outlets only accept flat three or two-pin plugs, depending on whether an earth connection is fitted.
How safe is New Zealand? Are there dangerous animals?
New Zealand is considered one of the safest destinations in the world. Problems can generally be avoided by using common sense. New Zealanders are welcoming and happy to help visitors. There is just one poisonous spider very rarely seen, and no dangerous animals. However treat water sports with respect and on patrolled beaches, always swim between the flags. New Zealand sun is strong and basic summer precautions include wearing a hat, covering up during the hottest part of the day and applying a strong sunscreen. Ensuring you take out a comprehensive travel insurance policy.
When are school holidays in New Zealand?
The most up to date information on New Zealand school holidays can be found at www.moe.govt.nz in the School Terms and Holidays section. We recommend you make confirmed bookings especially at these times, especially for accommodation, vehicle rental and Cook Strait sailings, generally it is best to confirm in advance if possible.
Where are the international airports located? Is there a departure tax? New Zealand's key international airports are at Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. Some flights from Australia also land at Hamilton, Palmerston North, Queenstown and Dunedin. Departure taxes are not included in ticket prices. A departure tax of NZ$25 is collected from all adult international passengers upon departure from Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown. This can be paid by cash or credit card. Some regional airports also have a small fee payable on domestic flights.
What type of accommodation is available?
You name it, we have it! From international standard hotels, motels, guest houses and bed and breakfasts to holiday parks, backpackers and camping grounds. Exclusive luxury lodges and boutique hotels and homestays are very popular - time spent at one of these often becomes the highlight of a New Zealand holiday.
What is the weather like?
You can visit New Zealand at any time of the year. Summer and winter temperatures vary by only about 10C/50F. New Zealand has four definite seasons - spring (Sept- Nov), summer (Dec- Feb), autumn (Mar-May) and winter (June-Aug). Away from the mountains, New Zealand winters are mild and temperatures generally do not fall below freezing. For up to date weather information, see www.metservice.co.nz. When it comes to packing, the key is layering. In summer, visitors spend most of the time in shorts and tee-shirts although it's wise to keep a jacket or sweater handy. Rain can occur at any time of year so a waterproof jacket is essential. Pack warm winter clothing if visiting between May and September - gloves and a hat are a good idea. Remember too that New Zealand is a relaxed kind of place - smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants.
Maori culture
Maori culture is an important part of a New Zealand holiday and can be experienced in a variety of different ways. Spend the day with a Maori guide walking through New Zealand's natural bush or geothermal areas and hear the stories and histories of this spiritual land. Visit a local marae (tribal meeting place) and watch as Maori showcase their skills through carving, weaving and traditional performance art. It's possible to sample the food from a hangi (food prepared in the traditional Maori way). Have a look at the powhiri feature on newzealand.com to learn more about the traditional Maori welcome. Maori music, both traditional and contemporary, is available at any music store and from www.maorimusic.com
What information is available about New Zealand National Parks?
More than a third of New Zealand's land is protected in parks and reserves and all are open to visitors. There are hundreds of hiking opportunities, from 10 minute board-walks to serious multi-day tramps. The Department of Conservation are the guardians of this resource - find out about the National Parks, hut accommodation passes and New Zealand's walking tracks at www.doc.govt.nz
The Lord of the Rings
The Lord of the Rings trilogy was filmed throughout New Zealand and the stunning landscapes featured in the film still remain, although the sets were removed after filming (required by the Department of Conservation). There's a wealth of information available. Really keen fans may want to buy 'The Lord of the Rings Location Guidebook' by Ian Brodie, readily available from bookstores in New Zealand (ISBN 1-86950-491-7).
Driving in New Zealand?
New Zealanders drive on the left hand side of the road. So if you're American or European, some adjustment is required, whereas English, Australian, Japanese and many Asian countries will feel completely at home. A visitor hiring a car will be asked to provide their home country licence, as long as it is in English. If the licence is in another language, an International Driver's Permit or English translation is required. Generally, a driver will need to be over 21 to rent a car or motor home, but policies do vary between companies so check the fine print with your rental car provider. All the main international companies such as Avis, Hertz and Budget operate in New Zealand, as well as local rental companies. Insurance on rental vehicles is mandatory in New Zealand and is often included in the quote. Roads in New Zealand are clearly signposted, usually well sealed and by international standards are uncongested. Renting a vehicle is a good way to explore New Zealand but it is important to realise that the scenery will slow you down - although the distances may look small on paper, motorways are found only in the major cities and you should allow plenty of time for photos and to enjoy the café stops on the way. If drivers get lost, there'll usually be a friendly New Zealander around to point them in the right direction. Visit www.ltsa.govt.nz and click on Travellers and New Residents for information in New Zealand road rules.
Where can I get maps?
Maps are readily available once visitors are in New Zealand at i-SITE Visitor Information Centres and from all major rental vehicle companies. Before arriving in New Zealand, online maps can be obtained from www.wises.co.nz
NZ Key Facts
