Accommodation

From international hotels and boutique bed & breakfast accommodation, to camping grounds and backpacker hostels, New Zealand offers accommodation to suit your clients, whatever their expectations. Qualmark – New Zealand tourism’s official quality mark – makes it easy for you to select the right standard of accommodation. Properties displaying the Qualmark are visited annually by professional assessors and awarded a grade reflecting the property standard. See the Qualmark entry for more information. It’s advisable to book your clients’ accommodation in advance, particularly in popular visitor destinations and during the high season (December to February in most places). For detailed information on accommodation types, see the Accommodation. Back to top

Alcohol

The legal age limit for consuming alcohol in New Zealand is 18. Anyone who looks under 25 years of age will be required to produce proof of age before purchasing alcohol. Beer and wine may be purchased from supermarkets seven days per week. Licensing laws vary from place to place, but clubs usually keep the party going till the small hours of the morning. Back to top

Banks

Banks are generally open 9:30am to 4:30pm Monday to Friday, except on public holidays. All major credit cards can be used and travellers cheques are accepted at hotels, banks and some retail stores. Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are widely available – most banks are part of the Cirrus or Plus international networks. Back to top

Business

New Zealand has an efficient market-oriented economy and a stable business environment. The labour market is flexible and highly educated. Infrastructure is of a high standard, with sophisticated telecommunications and an excellent transport system. Business services, such as fax, photocopy and printing services, as well as more comprehensive secretarial services, are easy to find in larger towns and cities. Hotels may offer an in-house service. Visitors should ask at the reception or check the local telephone directory. Back to top

Cities

Visitors will quickly discover that New Zealand’s cities are cosmopolitan, culturally diverse and just as worthy of exploration as the natural landscapes that the country is famous for. More than one quarter (1.4 million) of New Zealand’s population lives in Auckland in the North Island. Auckland has a colourful Pacific flavour and a beautiful harbour setting. The capital city is Wellington, at the southern tip of the North Island: as well as being New Zealand’s political capital, it’s also a vibrant capital of arts and culture. Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island, has a genteel English appearance and enjoys easy access to a myriad of outdoor activities from mountain biking to skiing. Back to top

Climate

New Zealand enjoys a temperate climate that features four distinct seasons but is relatively mild and does not tend to suffer extremes of climate. The temperature is subtropical in the far north, becoming cooler further south. In summer, average maximum temperatures range between 20 and 30°C and in winter between 10 and 15°C. Outside alpine regions, winters are relatively mild. Four seasons occur in reverse of the Northern Hemisphere – spring (September to November), summer (December to February), autumn (March to May) and winter (June to August). Weather can vary in the space of a day – encourage your clients to pack layers of clothing that can be varied easily. For current weather information, see www.metservice.co.nz. Back to top

Clothing

Ensure your clients are prepared for New Zealand’s variable weather: layering is the key to help visitors stay comfortable in all weather. In summer most visitors wear shorts or skirts and T-shirts, but it’s a good idea to keep a sweater handy. Rain can occur any time so advise your clients to bring a waterproof jacket, plus warm clothing including gloves and hat if they are visiting between May and September. Visitors should bring thermals if they’ll be spending time outdoors, especially in alpine areas. New Zealand is a relaxed place and smart casual clothes are usually acceptable – but if your clients enjoy high fashion, let them know that New Zealand is home to some of the world’s most innovative and exciting fashion designers. Your clients don’t need to pack too much: New Zealand is a great place to shop! Back to top

Currency

New Zealand’s currency is the New Zealand dollar (NZ$), comprising coins with values of 10, 20 and 50 cents, $1 and $2, and notes with values of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100. Banks are generally open from 9:30am to 4:30pm Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays. All major credit cards can be used and travellers’ cheques are accepted at hotels, banks and some retail stores. Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are widely available at banks and in shopping areas. EFTPOS (Electronic Funds Transfer at Point of Sale) is very widely available in New Zealand – the majority of retailers throughout the country offer payment by credit or cashflow card. CurrencySelect EFTPOS is also becoming established in New Zealand, allowing Visa and MasterCard customers to opt to pay in New Zealand dollars or in their home currency (twelve currencies are available). Most credit and cashflow cards are part of an international network such as Cirrus or Plus – advise your clients to check with their bank. Back to top

Customs

Ensure your clients are aware that New Zealand is an island nation free of many international pests and diseases. As the New Zealand economy is very dependent on the strength of its agricultural sector, it is very important that foreign pests and diseases do not become established. For this reason, New Zealand Customs has a zero tolerance approach to visitors bringing food and other high-risk items into the country and may impose instant fines and other penalties on those who disregard the rules.

To find a full list of banned or regulated products, see www.customs.govt.nz. Back to top

Disabled Access

New Zealand is an excellent destination for disabled travellers. The law requires new buildings and any major reconstruction to provide reasonable and adequate access for people with disabilities, but it is best to check when making reservations. Parking concessions may be obtained by visitors – your client should bring a mobility card or medical certificate as proof of disability and contact NZCCS on 0800 227 200 (within New Zealand). For more information see New Zealand’s disability information website, www.weka.net.nz or phone 0800 171 981 (within New Zealand). Back to top

Education

New Zealand is a very popular choice among international students. Home to many excellent schools and English language classes, New Zealand offers a well-integrated education system and an innovative approach to learning that helps students from all parts of the world achieve their full potential. If your clients are interested in New Zealand educational opportunities, visit www.newzealandeducated.com. Back to top

Electricity

Electricity is supplied at 230/240 volts (50 hertz). Most hotels and motels also provide 110 volt AC sockets (rated at 20 watts) for electric razors. For other equipment an adaptor is necessary, unless the item has a multi-voltage option. Power outlets accept only flat two- or three-pin plugs, depending on whether an earth connection is fitted. Back to top

Environment

New Zealand is known around the world as a clean and ‘green’ nation. With geographical isolation and a relatively small population, it is less polluted than many other countries. There are large tracts of protected wilderness and major conservation initiatives to protect rare native species. New Zealand’s National Parks are administered by the Department of Conservation (DOC). There are fourteen in total, each with its own unique character. In addition, the southwest of the South Island is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can find information about conservation areas, maps, passes for the Great Walks and tickets for DOC huts at DOC Information Centres and DOC Visitor Centres. To find out more, visit www.doc.govt.nz. All operators that have a Qualmark have been assessed for the environmental performance as part of the grading process. Top performing Qualmark Green operators are awarded Enviro status with a grading of Bronze, Silver or Gold. A number of tourism operators are benchmarked with Green Globe New Zealand, part of the globally recognised sustainable travel and tourism brand. Back to top

Etiquette & Social Conventions

New Zealanders are generally very friendly, welcoming and polite, and will gladly offer assistance to visitors. In turn, it is expected that visitors behave in kind. New Zealand is a relatively relaxed destination and its people are informal by nature, quickly moving to a first-name, familiar basis, even with people from different backgrounds. Equality between men and women, and across cultures, is an important value. It is common for both men and women to shake hands in greeting – closer acquaintances may hug or kiss on the cheek. Back to top

Gay and Lesbian Travellers

New Zealand society is very accepting of homosexuality. The Civil Union Act and the Relationships (Statutory References) Act give legal status to both different-sex and same-sex relationships. The Human Rights Act 1993 makes it unlawful to discriminate, either directly or indirectly, against a person on the grounds of their sexual orientation. There are special tours available which visit only gay-owned or gay-friendly New Zealand businesses. For more information, visit www.gaynz.com and www.gaytours.co.nz. Back to top

Geography

New Zealand is a compact country, meaning that visitors can experience a diverse range of landscapes and activities within a relatively short distance. Long and narrow, lying roughly north-south, it consists of three major islands and many small islands. The land area covers about 268,000 km², slightly larger than the United Kingdom and about the same size as California or Japan. Detailed regional maps may be purchased at www.terralink.co.nz. New Zealand is located in the South Pacific Ocean between latitudes 34°S and 47°S. It is 6,500 km south-southwest of Hawaii and 1,900 km east of Australia – three hours by air from eastern Australia, 12.5 hours by air from the United States and about 10 hours by air from Pacific Rim centres such as Hong Kong or Singapore. With an ever-increasing number of flights available, visitors in many parts of the world can board a plane in their home country and be exploring New Zealand the very next day! Back to top

Goods and Services Tax

All goods and services purchased in New Zealand are subject to 12.5% Goods and Services Tax (GST), which is included in the display price. Goods bought from Duty Free shops before departure are exempt if your clients’ travel tickets are presented. Back to top

Government

New Zealand is a sovereign state with a democratic parliamentary government based on the Westminster system. Its constitutional history dates back to the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, when the Maori people ceded sovereignty to the British Queen. Elections are held every three years, and since 1996 Members of Parliament have been elected using a Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) system of proportional representation. The judicial system is based on the British model, with the judiciary independent from the executive. New Zealand enjoys a high degree of social and political stability, and a comprehensive social welfare system. It is a founding member of the Commonwealth of Nations and the United Nations. Back to top

Health & Safety

New Zealand is one of the world’s safest destinations, but some basic precautions should be taken when enjoying outdoor activities. Visitors should swim between the flags on patrolled beaches and be aware of strong currents or objects underwater when swimming in rivers or jumping into lakes. See www.watersafety.org.nz for more information.

Visitors should also be careful when hiking into remote areas and ensure that they are appropriately equipped for the conditions. See the Walking & Hiking section on page 38 for further advice. It is always a good idea to check the weather conditions – www.metservice.co.nz will keep visitors up to date with weather changes. The sun in New Zealand is particularly intense – even when the weather is cool, visitors should wear a hat and apply sunscreen.

New Zealand’s medical facilities operate to a high standard but services are not free. Encourage your clients to purchase comprehensive travel insurance for peace of mind. No vaccinations are needed to enter New Zealand.

New Zealand is a safe country to visit and you can feel confident recommending it to visitors. However, travellers should be advised to take simple, sensible precautions such as putting valuables away out of sight, preferably in a secure place, and locking doors and vehicles, even in remote locations. It is inadvisable to walk alone late at night. New Zealand Police are polite and helpful; visitors can approach them if they have any concerns. In health and safety emergencies, dial 111 for ambulance, police or fire services. Contact details for doctors, dentists and 24-hour surgeries are listed at the front of regional telephone directories. Back to top

Holidays

Confirmed bookings, especially for flights, accommodation, vehicle rental and Cook Strait ferry sailings, are recommended if your clients are travelling during New Zealand public or school holidays. These times are when many New Zealand families take their holidays and popular areas can get busy! For a list of public holidays, see Essential Info on page 265. Further information on New Zealand school holidays can be found at www.minedu.govt.nz.

While shops may trade on most public holidays, there are special trading restrictions on Christmas Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and before 1pm on Anzac Day. Banks and other services generally close on public holidays, but in large towns and cities many shops continue to open. Some establishments, such as cafés, may charge a holiday surcharge of 10% to 20%. Back to top

Immigration

New Zealand offers an attractive lifestyle to potential immigrants. If your clients are interested in moving permanently to New Zealand, they will need to carefully consider the decision and ensure that they are able to satisfy immigration criteria. Suggest that they consult the New Zealand Immigration Service (www.immigration.govt.nz) for a summary of immigration requirements and to obtain a residence application pack. Back to top

Industry

New Zealand has a mixed economy with an export-oriented agricultural sector and sizeable manufacturing and service sectors. Food and beverages represent almost half of New Zealand’s total merchandise exports, while innovative technological products are another significant export. Back to top

Insurance

In most cases, visitors to New Zealand are not eligible for publicly funded health and disability services. People covered by New Zealand’s Reciprocal Health Agreements with Australia and the United Kingdom are entitled to publicly funded health care for immediately necessary medical treatment only. Comprehensive health insurance for the duration of your client’s visit is recommended. Back to top

i-SITE Visitor Information Network

New Zealand has an extensive Visitor Information Network providing free and comprehensive local knowledge. Encourage your clients to make use of New Zealand’s i-SITE visitor centres for information on what to see and do, as well as assistance with reservations. See www.i-SITE.org for a list of i-SITE visitor centres around the country and a map you can print for your clients. Back to top

Internet

Internet access is widely available in cyber cafés throughout New Zealand. Many public libraries also have public internet access, and generally there is an hourly charge. Hotels and other accommodation may also have internet access for guests. Back to top

Investment

New Zealand has a very efficient, market-oriented economy and a stable, secure business environment. A business-friendly taxation system supports capital development, research and development, and international investment. Find out more at www.investnewzealand.govt.nz. Back to top

Language

English is the major official language. Maori is the second official language. New Zealanders are generally understanding of visitors who do not speak their language, and will appreciate any effort made to speak English. English language courses can be found all over the country and are a great way for visitors to make their visit to New Zealand a learning experience. If your clients are interested in this option, see www.englishnewzealand.co.nz for details. As many New Zealand place names are Maori, visitors may find it useful to learn Maori pronunciation – and many enjoy learning how to say a few simple terms. Visit www.maori.org.nz/Kotereo for an online Maori language course. Back to top

Laptops

Use an RJ45-type plug to connect your laptop to a computer socket and an adaptor with a flat two- or three-point plug to connect to the power supply. Back to top

Maps

Purchase detailed regional maps of New Zealand at www.terralink.co.nz. Back to top

Media

New Zealand has a large number of radio stations with at least one local station and several nationwide network stations broadcast in each city or town. Radio New Zealand National is the government-funded national network. Broadcasting a mix of news, current affairs and music, it is promoted as the ‘voice of New Zealand’. Visitors can listen to Radio New Zealand National by tuning into either AM or FM (see www.radionz.co.nz/listen/amfm for a list of frequencies), through live internet streams or by downloading podcasts of selected programmes. See www.radionz.co.nz for details.

New Zealand has several nationwide free-to-air television networks, as well as regional stations. Television New Zealand is the nation’s public television broadcaster: tune in on TV ONE or TV2. See www.tvnz.co.nz for programme details. Maori Television supports the revitalisation of Maori language by broadcasting in Maori and English. Find out more at www.maoritelevision.com. Offering more than 70 channels, SKY Television is the main pay-television operator.

Major New Zealand newspapers, such as The New Zealand Herald (Auckland), The Dominion Post (Wellington) and The Press (Christchurch) are widely available, and many towns also have their own local newspapers. See www.stuff.co.nz for news online. Back to top

Mobile Phones

New Zealand has both analogue and GSM digital networks. Check with your clients’ phone companies about international mobile roaming service. Back to top

Passports & Visas

Passports are required for all visitors and must be valid for at least six months after the date the visitor intends to leave New Zealand. Visas are not required for most visitors staying less than three months. For stays longer than three months a Visitor’s Visa may be required. New Zealand also offers a Working Holiday scheme for working holidaymakers from selected countries. Check all requirements with the New Zealand Immigration Service: www.immigration.govt.nz. Back to top

Population

New Zealand has a multicultural population of just over 4.2 million people. Most are of British descent (also referred to as Pakeha). Other European cultures such as Dutch, Greek, Italian, French, German, Scandinavian and Yugoslavian have also had a significant impact. In more recent times, people of Asian and Pacific Island descent have been an increasingly significant proportion of the population. New Zealand’s indigenous Maori make up around 14% of the population. Back to top

Postal Services

PostShops are found in most towns. In smaller areas, an agency may run in conjunction with another business. PostShops are generally open from 9am to 5pm on weekdays and some may open from 9am to 12 noon on Saturdays. Back to top

Prices

New Zealand is a good value destination, particularly for visitors from Australia, Europe and the United States of America, who enjoy very favourable rates of exchange. Visitors can spend as little as NZ$65 per day by self-catering and staying in hostel-type accommodation. As a general rule, a main meal at a restaurant may cost NZ$15 to NZ$45. A night’s accommodation will cost anywhere from NZ$30 to NZ$300 and beyond. Back to top

Public Holidays

Labour Day 26 October 2009
Christmas Day 25 December 2009
Boxing Day 26 December 2009
New Year’s Day 1 January 2010
New Year Holiday 2 January 2010
Waitangi Day 6 February 2010
Good Friday 2 April 2010
Easter Monday 5 April 2010
Anzac Day 25 April 2010
Queen’s Birthday 7 June 2010
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Qualmark

Qualmark is New Zealand tourism’s official mark of quality. Activity, transport, service and accommodation operators that carry the Qualmark have been assessed as professional and trustworthy, and accommodation providers are also rated on a star grading system so you know what to expect when making reservations. To find out about the star grade definitions or search operators that carry the Qualmark, see www.qualmark.co.nz. Back to top

Shopping

Visitors to New Zealand can indulge in retail therapy ranging from craft markets, galleries and museum shops to boutiques and designer stores. The country is known for superb-quality sheepskins and leather goods, paua (abalone shell) and Maori carvings in wood, bone and greenstone (jade). New Zealand’s fashion designers have a reputation for high-quality creations. See www.fashionz.co.nz. New Zealand Fashion Week is held in Auckland City during September each year. See www.nzfashionweek.com. In resorts and cities, shops are open seven days a week, generally from about 9am to about 5pm or 6pm, with late nights on Thursdays and Fridays. Back to top

Transport

Cities and major towns in New Zealand are well served by air transport. From the airport, visitors can catch a shuttle or taxi to their destination. For independence, they may hire a campervan or rental car. Coaches are cost-effective, linking with rail and ferry operators for convenience. A rail journey through spectacular scenery is unforgettable. Ferries, launches and yachts are available for charter or hire. Or book a package tour and let the experts take care of it all. For more information, see Transport. Back to top