TRAVEL
TIPS
| Driving |
U.S
Driving Permit accepted |
| Currency |
(NZD)
New Zealand Dollar |
| Electrical |
230 Volts |
| Telephones |
Country
Code 64, City Code, South Island 3+6/7D, Wellington 4+6/7D,
Auckland 9+6/7D |
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° Celcius (72° Farenheit) and winter 9° Celcius
(48° Farenheit).
Clothing
In keeping with New Zealand's relaxed lifestyle, dress is informal
on most occasions. A jacket is recommended only for those intending
to visit a better restaurant or evening show. A waterproof jacket
and umbrella is advisable.
Currency
New Zealand Dollars (NZ$). Current exchange rate is approximately
1USD =NZ$1.25 Please check with your bank for current exchange rates.
Travellers cheques and most major international credit cards are
accepted.
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.
GST
Most goods and services purchased in New Zealand are subject to
12.5% Goods and Services tax. This is usually included in the
price, although some hotels and restaurants may quote prices excluding
GST.
Best
Travelling
September to April (Summer). New Zealand is also a ideal touring
destination in the winter.
Electricity
Electricity is supplied throughout New Zealand at 240 volts via
a slant 3 pin outlet. Hotels often provide a 110 volt socket for
electric shavers only. For all other equipment, an adaptor and
a voltage converter are necessary.
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.
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).
Petrol
(Gasoline)
Averages around $1.15 cents (NZ$) per litre throughout New Zealand.
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.
Departure
Tax
A departure tax of approximately NZ$25 is payable by anyone (over
the age of 12) departing via the international airports.
This fee can be paid by credit card and varies depending on your
departure airport.
