 |
|
|
|
|
FAQ's
Why visit New Zealand?
Spectacular scenery & a unique, unspoilt environment. A friendly and welcoming English-speaking population. Fantastic infra-structure offering superb accommodation, quality dining & a diverse range of transportation options. A wide range of activities from adrenalin-pumping adventures to more relaxed, leisurely sightseeing. Great value for money & once experienced, you’ll want to come back time & time again.
Back to FAQ Index
When is the best time to visit New Zealand?
New Zealand has four quite distinct seasons - Spring (Sept-Nov), Summer (Dec-Feb), Autumn/Fall (Mar-May) and Winter (June-Aug). In summer there's plenty of sunshine, and activities in and around the water include rafting, snorkelling, diving and kayaking. You'll find snow on the mountains in winter and excellent skiing. Away from the mountains, New Zealand winters are mild and temperatures generally do not fall below freezing.
Back to FAQ Index
What's the climate like?
New Zealand's seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere. This means that the warmest months are December, January and February, while the coldest are in June, July and August. Don't let cold months put you off - winters tend to be short and generally fairly mild.
Back to FAQ Index
What clothes should I take?
Dress is informal and relaxed on most occasions. Smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants and -night-spots. Men are generally not expected to wear suits and ties, except in a few of the top formal bars and restaurants in major cities.
In summer a light jacket or sweater should be included in your luggage should the weather turn cooler or you visit the high country. You can expect some rain, so include a light waterproof jacket or coat. Pack warm winter clothing if visiting between May and September. Layer your clothing.
Back to FAQ Index
Do I 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 beyond the date you intend to leave the country.
Most visitors who intend to stay for less than three months do not require a visa. If you want to stay longer than three months, or your country of origin does not have a visa waiver agreement with New Zealand, then you will need to apply for a Visitor's Visa.
Read our Passports and Visas section carefully, and if you need more information look at the New Zealand Immigration Service website.
Back to FAQ Index
Can I use my credit cards/ATM cards in New Zealand?
All major international credit cards can be used in New Zealand and Travellers Cheques are accepted at hotels, banks and some stores. If your credit card is encoded with a PIN number you will be able to withdraw cash from automatic teller machines (ATMs) situated at banks and shopping centres throughout the country.
Back to FAQ Index
Are there any poisonous animals in New Zealand?
New Zealand has no snakes or dangerous wild animals, making it safe for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities.
Back to FAQ Index
Is it safe to drink the water in New Zealand?
New Zealand cities and towns have excellent water supplies and in all cases tap water is fresh and safe to drink. Water from rivers and lakes should be boiled, chemically treated or filtered before drinking to avoid stomach upsets.
Back to FAQ Index
What is the voltage of electricity supply in New Zealand? Do I need to take a converter?
Electricity is supplied throughout New Zealand at 230/240 volts (50 hertz), although most hotels and motels provide 110 volt AC sockets (rated at 20 watts) for electric razors only. For all other equipment, an adapter/converter is necessary, unless the item has a multi-voltage option. Please note that power outlets only accept flat three or two-pin plugs, depending on whether an earth connection is fitted.
Back to FAQ Index
Where are the international airports located in New Zealand?
New Zealand's international airports are at Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. Some flights from Australia also land at Hamilton, Palmerston North, Queenstown and Dunedin.
Back to FAQ Index
Where is the capital of New Zealand?
Wellington is the political, banking and financial centre for New Zealand. The Parliament building known as the 'Beehive' is one of the city's top attractions. The National Archives, National Library and Old Government Buildings (the second largest wooden building in the world) are located nearby and are open to casual visitors free of charge.
Back to FAQ Index
What is a 'Kiwi'?
The kiwi, New Zealand's national emblem, is a flightless bird with hair-like feathers and a long, slender bill which it uses to pull worms and insects out of the ground. Found only in New Zealand, it is active at night in the wilderness areas of the country. Be sure to visit one of the many kiwi houses where you can watch them under special 'nocturnal' lighting.
New Zealanders often refer to themselves as Kiwis, and the term is also used as a short form for the famous kiwifruit. On the stock exchange, the New Zealand Dollar is also referred to as 'the kiwi'.
Back to FAQ Index
What kind of night-life is available in New Zealand?
Lively DJ and band scenes, particularly in the larger cities, have given New Zealand's night life a renewed vibrancy. You will find a variety of night-clubs, cabarets, pubs, concerts and live performances to choose from, and there are also four casinos, in Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin and Queenstown.
Back to FAQ Index
When are School Holidays in New Zealand?
The most up to date details for School Holidays in New Zealand can be found at www.moe.govt.nz
Back to FAQ Index
|
|
|
|
© 2003 - 2008 The Great New Zealand Travel Company, Auckland, New Zealand. All Rights Reserved. |
website by digitise |
|
|
