Travel Information

Banking and Business Hours:

Many businesses and all banks operate only Monday to Friday. Banking hours are 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday and are closed on public holidays. Increasingly, stores in major cities are extending their hours through to Saturday and Sunday. Those stores catering largely to visitors are open every day, often with extended hours. Most petrol stations are open every day.

Climate:

New Zealand is in the southern hemisphere, so the seasons are the opposite to those in the northern hemisphere. Summer is December to February whilst winter is June to August. Average summer temperature is 22° Celsius (72° Fahrenheit) and winter 9° Celsius (48° Fahrenheit)

Clothing:

If you are travelling around New Zealand you are bound to bump into most types of weather. The safest policy is to be equipped for all weather no matter what the season. Wear layers of clothing to strip off and replace as necessary. Wet weather gear, a wind proof jacket, woolen sweater and strong comfortable footwear are all recommended. In keeping with New Zealands relaxed lifestyle, dress is informal on most occasions. A smart standard will be required for better restaurants, shows and casinos.

Currency:

New Zealand Dollars (NZ$). Current exchange see Exchange Rate Converter. Travellers cheques and most major international credit cards are accepted.

Customs:

Allowances and Quarantine Please check with your airline for current information about what restrictions apply. For further information see New Zealand Customs Service.

Departure Tax:

A departure tax of NZ$25 is payable by anyone (over the age of 12) departing via the three international airports. This fee can be paid by credit card.

Electricity:

Electricity is supplied throughout New Zealand at 240 volts via a slant pin outlet. Hotels often provide a 110 volt socket for electric shavers only. For all other equipment, an adapter and a converter are necessary.

GST:

All goods and services purchased in New Zealand are subject to 12.5% goods and services tax, similar to V.A.T. paid in other countries. This is usually included in the price. If you purchase goods in New Zealand which you do not plan to use until you return home, the retailer may have facilities to export these for you either by arranging delivery to customs at the airport or by posting, in which case the goods will be zero rated (free) of G.S.T.

Key Facts:

View this link to the New Zealand Tourism information site.

Medical and Emergency Facilities:

Medical and emergency services are available but not free to visitors. Please arrange for insurance coverage before your departure. Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended. Dial 111 for emergency calls to police, fire or ambulance services. For non emergencies, full instructions on obtaining assistance are printed in the front of all telephone directories and accommodation facilities will usually have individual arrangements with duty doctors for guests and can assist you in finding a dentist. New Zealands medical and hospital facilities provide a high standard of treatment and care. Medical and emergency services are not free to visitors. New Zealand suffers only isolated incidences of serious crime however petty crime however petty crime can be a problem in some areas. Take precautions to conceal and secure valuables and never leave them in your vehicle as tourists do seem to be targeted by thieves.

Public Holidays:

New Zealand public holidays in the year 2000 are: New Year 3 - 4 January, Waitangi Day 6 February, Good Friday 21 April, Easter Monday 24 April, ANZAC Day 25 April, Queen's Birthday 5 June, Labour Day 23 October, Christmas Day and Boxing Day 25 - 26 December.
New Zealand School Holidays

Road Rules:

New Zealand road rules follow international standards. New Zealand drives on the left side of the road (the same as in the UK and Japan, and opposite to the USA and Europe). For further information see New Zealand Road Code.

Tipping:

New Zealanders do not depend on tips for their income and tips are not expected for normal service, however you may wish to show your appreciation for extra special attention.

Time:

New Zealand is one of the first places in the world to see the new day. New Zealand is 12 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time). In summer New Zealand has daylight saving when clocks are put forward one hour to GMT+13. Daylight saving begins on the first Sunday in October and ends on the last Sunday of the following March, when clocks are put back to GMT+12.

Visas and Passports:

All visitors require a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after their intended departure. A visa is not required for most visitors travelling to New Zealand for a stay of less than 3 months. You should check with your local New Zealand embassy or consulate for the latest information. For further information see New Zealand Immigration Service.

Email: info@ginz.com | Phone: +64 3 357 0010 | Fax: +64 3 357 0011 | Level 1, 538 Wairakei Road, Christchurch, New Zealand

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