Explore the Wonders of New Zealand: Land of Adventure and Beauty
New Zealand, ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’, is a small, sparsely populated country consisting of two major islands, North and South Island, and a scattering of smaller ones. Despite its small size New Zealand is crammed with magnificent natural beauty and has an incredible amount to offer its visitors. Fresh air, breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities are the main attractions of New Zealand, with a tremendously friendly, honest and helpful population, colloquially nicknamed after their country’s distinct symbol, the kiwi bird.
The North Island has dramatic volcanic landscapes and highly active thermal areas, long stretches of beautiful beaches and ancient indigenous forests. The South Island has a slower pace of life dominated by the magnificent snow-covered Southern Alps and the spectacular scenery of the southern waterways of the fjord lands, with glaciers, deep lakes and verdant forests.
The signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840 was New Zealand’s founding document, an attempt to settle disputes between the European settlers and the Maoris, conceding the country to British rule while guaranteeing the Maori people possession of their land and cultural identity. Today, integration has been replaced by a policy of upholding two different cultures alongside each other. Their shared love of sport, most notably the revered national sport of rugby union, and their enthusiasm for adventure and the outdoors is the unifying factor among the whole population.
New Zealand offers a huge variety of activities, from bungee jumping to skiing, swimming with dolphins, scenic flights and boat cruises on the fjords, as well as several world famous walking trails. Alternatively visitors can immerse themselves in culture at the museums and galleries of Auckland and the capital Wellington in the North, and Christchurch in the south.
New Zealand is an easy and compact place in which to travel and its spectacularly dramatic landscapes alone, famous for its setting for The Lord of the Ringsfilm trilogy, makes the long trip to these southern islands more than worthwhile.
Key Facts
- Language:
- The official languages in New Zealand are English and Maori.
- Passport/Visa:
All foreign passengers to New Zealand must hold return/onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country (usually NZD 1,000 per month, or NZD 400 if accommodation has been prepaid). Note that all visitors must obtain a permit to enter Tokelau from the Tokelau Apia Liaison Office in Apia, at least two weeks prior to travel. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
Local currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), divided into 100 cents. Most businesses accept MasterCard and Visa, and while Diners Club and American Express are also widely accepted in the main tourist centres, they might have limited acceptance elsewhere. ATMs can be found in all towns and cities.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Oblique flat blade plugs are standard.
Overview
There is so much to see and do in New Zealand that it is difficult to know where to start. This is, after all, the self-styled ‘adventure capital of the world’, where willing participants can bungee jump, zorb and sky dive to their heart’s content in outdoor playgrounds such as Queensland or Wanaka.
The natural landscape in New Zealand is astonishing. Visitors can take in the pristine fjord of Milford Sound, or get lost in the turquoise waters of the Bay of Islands. Highlights of the Hauraki Gulf islands near Auckland include Waiheke, famous for its wine, and the volcanic Rangitoto. The three mighty volcanoes of Tongariro National Park are awesome for skiing and trekking, enjoying dual UNESCO status for volcanic landscape and cultural importance.
The rugged and uninhabited West Coast, framed by the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea, is home to stunning natural features such as the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. Not to be missed in this region is the TranzAlpine train, one of the world’s great railway journeys, traversing the Southern Alps and passing through Arthur’s Pass National Park as it makes its way from Greymouth to Christchurch.
The cities offer an entirely different experience. Auckland, known to the Maori people as ‘Tamaki Makaurau’ (city of many lovers), is renowned as one of the top cities in the world for quality of life. Wellington, the capital, is small but with a big city feel. Here, visitors can enjoy the culture, caffeine and, of course, the craft beer. Otago’s rolling hills are home to some top wine producers.
New Zealand is also developing other sides to its tourist offering with a burgeoning wine industry, fascinating Maori culture, restorative thermal pools and natural spas, and plenty of tours themed around The Lord of the Rings, which was filmed at locations around the country.
Climate in New Zealand
The weather in New Zealand is changeable throughout the year, though the climate is fairly temperate, with fairly predictable conditions over longer periods. The North Island has mild winters and warm and humid summers, the South Island has lower temperatures with cold winters and extensive snowfields and glaciers. Snow falls on all the mountains in winter, and the west coast receives the most rain. The summer months in New Zealand are from November to April.
Health Notes when travelling to New Zealand
There are no health risks associated with travel to New Zealand. New Zealand’s Accident Compensation Commission (ACC) covers emergency treatment for visitors, but health insurance is recommended to cover any additional charges and for those not entitled to free emergency treatment. Those intending to participate in adventure activities, such as bungee jumping, white water rafting, etc should ensure that their travel insurance covers these types of activities.
Safety Notes when travelling to New Zealand
New Zealand has a reputation as one of the safest destinations in the world, however sensible precautions against petty theft are still advised.
Customs in New Zealand
Though New Zealand has a strong reputation for tolerance towards homosexuality, there are still isolated incidents of homophobic related crime. LGBT travellers should be aware of local sensitivities, especially when visiting rural areas. Importing illegal drugs is punishable by up to 12 years’ imprisonment.
Duty Free in New Zealand
Travellers to New Zealand over 17 years do not have to pay duty on 50 cigarettes, or 50g of cigars or tobacco, or a mixture of all three not exceeding 50g; three bottles of spirits or liqueur each containing not more than 1,125ml; 4.5 litres of wine or beer; and other goods to the value of NZD 700. Goods exceeding the allowances must be declared. Personal effects not dutiable include items such as jewellery, binoculars, portable radios, prams, camping equipment, cameras and video cameras. Prohibited items include concealed firearms, foodstuffs, animals, plants and plant products. It is forbidden to export Greenstone, Maori antiquities and Paua shells (unless they are products manufactured from such shells). Prescription medications need to be accompanied by a doctor’s letter and the original prescription, they should not amount to more than three months worth of the medication.
Doing Business in New Zealand
New Zealand is ranked first in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business rankings. The business culture of New Zealand conforms to a typically British model: formal, reserved and conservative. However, this is tempered with a characteristically Antipodean warmth and friendliness, creating a relaxed, yet professional atmosphere.
Business etiquette in New Zealand will be familiar to those who’ve worked in western corporate environments before. Foreigners should use titles until instructed not to do so, and maintain eye contact when speaking to their associates. Business meetings should be scheduled at least a week in advance, and then confirmed a few days before they are due to take place. The dress code for business in New Zealand is usually formal. For meetings, men should stick to a dark suit, worn with a tie; women should wear a smart dress/business suit/pants suit and limited accessories.
The official language of business in New Zealand is English, and business hours are generally from 8.30am (or 9am) to 5pm, Monday to Friday; and 9am to 12.30pm on Saturdays.
Communication in New Zealand
The international access code for New Zealand is +64. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0061 for Australia). A good option is to purchase a local prepaid SIM card at the airport on arrival in New Zealand. WiFi access is widely available in hotels, restaurants and other tourist establishments, except in some of the more remote areas.
Tipping in New Zealand
Gratuities are not expected in New Zealand and service charges are not applied to bills, but it is acceptable for guests to tip at their discretion.
Passport/Visa Note
All foreign passengers to New Zealand must hold return/onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country (usually NZD 1,000 per month, or NZD 400 if accommodation has been prepaid). Note that all visitors must obtain a permit to enter Tokelau from the Tokelau Apia Liaison Office in Apia, at least two weeks prior to travel. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least one month beyond the period of intended stay in New Zealand. No visa is required for stays of up to three months. Travellers must have a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) obtained prior to boarding.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least one month beyond the period of intended stay in New Zealand. No visa is required for stays of up to three months. Canadians must have a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) obtained prior to boarding.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least one month beyond the period of intended stay in New Zealand. No visa is required for stays of up to three months. Travellers must have a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) obtained prior to boarding.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in New Zealand. No visa is required.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least one month beyond the period of intended stay in New Zealand. No visa is required for stays of up to three months. They must have a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) obtained prior to boarding.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in New Zealand. South Africans require a visitor visa that must be organised prior to travel.
Tourist Offices
Tourism New Zealand, Wellington:+64 4 462 8000 or http://www.tourismnewzealand.com
New Zealand Embassies
- In the United States:
New Zealand Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 328 4800.
- In Canada:
New Zealand High Commission, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 238 5991.
- In the United Kingdom:
New Zealand High Commission, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 20 7930 8422.
- In Australia:
New Zealand High Commission, Canberra, Australia: +61 2 6270 4211.
- In South Africa:
New Zealand High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 435 9000.
Foreign Embassies in New Zealand
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, Wellington: +64 4 462 6000.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian High Commission, Wellington: +64 4 473 9577.
- British Embassy
British High Commission, Wellington: +64 4 924 2888.
- Australian Embassy
Australian High Commission, Wellington: +64 4 473 6411.
- Irish Embassy
Honorary Consul General of Ireland, Auckland: +64 9 919 7450.
- South African Embassy
Honorary Consulate of South Africa, Wellington: +64 4 815 8484.
| 2023 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Wed. January 1 | Wed. January 1 |
| Day after New Year’s Day | Thu. January 2 | Thu. January 2 |
| Waitangi Day | Thu. February 6 | Thu. February 6 |
| Good Friday | Mon. April 7 | Sat. March 29 |
| Easter Monday | Thu. April 10 | Tue. April 1 |
| ANZAC Day | Fri. April 25 | Fri. April 25 |
| Queen’s Birthday | Thu. June 5 | Tue. June 3 |
| Labour Day | Thu. October 23 | Tue. October 28 |
| Christmas Day | Thu. December 25 | Thu. December 25 |
| Boxing Day | Fri. December 26 | Fri. December 26 |
Local currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), divided into 100 cents. Most businesses accept MasterCard and Visa, and while Diners Club and American Express are also widely accepted in the main tourist centres, they might have limited acceptance elsewhere. ATMs can be found in all towns and cities.
| Exchange rate for 1 NZD – New Zealand Dollar | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.68Â BMD Bermudan Dollar | 0.61Â EUR Euro | 0.68Â USD U.S. Dollar | 0.47Â GBP U.K. Pound Sterling | 74.25Â JPY Japanese Yen | 0.89Â CAD Canadian Dollar |
| 0.67Â CHF Swiss Franc | 0.94Â AUD Australian Dollar | 17.12Â UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia | 230.27Â KZT Kazakhstani Tenge | 1,026.76Â LBP Lebanese Pound | 0.49Â LYD Libyan Dinar |
| 4.68Â BOB Bolivian Boliviano | 73.56Â NPR Nepalese Rupee | 0.26Â OMR Omani Rial | 2.48Â QAR Qatari Rial | 0.94Â SGD Singapore Dollar | 5.65Â SEK Swedish Krona |
| 4.52Â TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar | 6.80Â VEF Venezuelan Bolivar | 31.25Â DOP Dominican Peso | 4.58Â HRK Croatian Kuna | 12.71Â MXN Mexican Peso | 399.77Â XOF West African CFA Franc |
| 2.16Â PGK Papua New Guinean kina | 0.68Â BSD Bahamian Dollar | 1.44Â FJD Fiji Dollar | 15.44Â HNL Honduran Lempira | 75.36Â DZD Algerian Dinar | 812.30Â MMK Myanma Kyat |
| 7.63Â BWP Botswana Pula | 2.30Â PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol | 472.88Â CLP Chilean Peso | 325.99Â AMD Armenia Dram | 16.48Â CZK Czech Koruna | 13.62Â MDL Moldova Lei |
| 84.75Â ISK Icelandic Krona | 2,003.80Â UZS Uzbekistan Sum | 2.63Â ILS Israeli New Sheqel | 0.48Â JOD Jordanian Dinar | 0.21Â KWD Kuwaiti Dinar | 21.38Â UYU Uruguayan Peso |
| 24.22Â MUR Mauritian Rupee | 19.44Â NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba | 5.69Â NOK Norwegian Krone | 2.67Â PLN Polish Zloty | 2.56Â SAR Saudi Riyal | 99.56Â LKR Sri Lanka Rupee |
| 24.28Â THB Thai Baht | 2.50Â AED U.A.E Dirham | 2.45Â BRL Brazilian Real | 2.76Â RON Romanian New Leu | 5.30Â HKD Hong Kong Dollar | 400.68Â XAF Central African CFA Franc |
| 15,324.46Â VND Vietnamese Dong | 9.51Â ARS Argentine Peso | 1.84Â XCD East Caribbean Dollar | 5.34Â GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal | 6.66Â MAD Moroccan Dirham | 0.26Â BHD Bahrain Dinar |
| 0.68Â PAB Panamanian Balboa | 1.02Â AZN Azerbaijan Manat | 2,125.89Â COP Colombian Peso | 46.57Â KGS Kyrgyzstan Som | 190.75Â HUF Hungarian Forint | 5.37Â TJS Tajikistan Ruble |
| 9,329.87Â IDR Indonesian Rupiah | 6.05Â EGP Egyptian Pound | 812.16Â KRW South Korean Won | 3,865.72Â PYG Paraguayan Guaraní | 2.84Â MYR Malaysian Ringgit | 367.35Â CRC Costa Rican Colón |
| 71.42Â PKR Pakistani Rupee | 45.55Â RUB Russian Rouble | 10.64Â ZAR South African Rand | 1.45Â TND Tunisian Dinar | 1.36Â BBD Barbadian Dollar | 1.19Â BGN Bulgarian Lev |
| 2.01Â TRY Turkish Lira | 31.79Â PHP Philippine Peso | 22.24Â TWD New Taiwan Dollar | 133.98Â NGN Nigerian Naira | 73.06Â XPF CFP Franc | 2.67Â GHS Ghanaian Cedi |
| 85.18Â JMD Jamaican Dollar | 1.23Â ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder | 0.94Â BND Brunei Dollar | 75.38Â RSD Serbian Dinar | 4.49Â CNY Chinese Yuan | 13,567.87Â BYR Belarussian Ruble |
| 4.53Â DKK Danish Krone | 2.34Â TMT New Turkmenistan Manat | 45.86Â INR Indian Rupee | |||
U.S. Dollar to New Zealand Dollar
1 USD = 1.47 NZD
Euro to New Zealand Dollar
1 EUR = 1.64 NZD
Canadian Dollar to New Zealand Dollar
1 CAD = 1.12 NZD
U.K. Pound Sterling to New Zealand Dollar
1 GBP = 2.11 NZD
Australian Dollar to New Zealand Dollar
1 AUD = 1.06 NZD
South African Rand to New Zealand Dollar
1 ZAR = 0.09 NZD