New Zealand
FAQ - Helpful Information about New Zealand
New Zealand
New Zealand is probably the most dramatic place on earth, with natural
beauty difficult to believe. Many people are drawn to the Land of
the Long White Cloud by her scenic splendor. The real New Zealand
is much more than glistening peaks, serene lakes and boiling mud
- it is a people, a culture, a way of life. The unique blend of
Maori, Pacific Islander, Pakeha (European descendant) and other
nationalities gives a heritage that is rich and varied. It is about
the length of the Mississippi River and the width of California.
Passport and Visas
All visitors to New Zealand require a passport
valid for at least three months after the planned date of departure. Check
with your travel agent for visa requirements.
Currency
The unit of currency is the New Zealand Dollar.
Credit Cards and Traveler's Checks
All major credit cards may
be used and NZD travelers' checks are accepted at hotels, banks and some stores.
Banks are open Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
Goods and Services Tax
All goods and services purchased in New
Zealand are subject to a 12-1/2% Goods and Services Tax (GST), which is usually
included in the displayed price. Visitors cannot claim refunds on this tax.
However, when a supplier agrees to export a major item to a visitor's home
address, GST is not charged on either the goods or the freight
Electricity
The electricity current in New Zealand is 230-240
volts. Electrical appliances will require a round-pin, two-pronged plug adapter.
Check your appliances to see if there is a 100-240v switch. If not, you
will need a voltage converter. Universal outlets for 240 or 110v
shavers are usually found in leading stores.
Departure and Airport Taxes
An Airport User Fee is payable by
all travelers departing via the airports of Auckland, Dunedin, Wellington,
Christchurch, Hamilton, Queenstown and Palmerston North.
Driving in New Zealand
A current international driver's license
or a license of the country of origin is acceptable. Minimum rental age is
21 years. Please remember to drive on the left hand side of the road.
Tipping
New Zealanders do not depend on tips or gratuities for
their income, and tips are not expected for normal service, even in restaurants
and pubs. However, tipping in appreciation for extra-special service
is at your discretion. Service charges are not normally added to
hotel or restaurant bills.
What to Pack?
Dress is informal and relaxed on most occasions.
"Smart casual" clothes are acceptable at most restaurants and nightspots. 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.
Accommodation
To assist you with the selection of your
accommodation, Travelscene has devised its own rating system
enabling you to compare each property. Ratings are provided solely
for the guidance of our customers and have no equivalent in any other
rating system. Properties are assigned a half rating if they are
a little extra special in their category. This could be because of
location or extra facilities offered. The ratings used apply to the
overall quality of the property. Within selected properties, some
room categories may vary from the overall property rating.
Standard: Moderate level of accommodation, offering a reasonable
range of room amenities and hotel services. Furnished to a comfortable
standard, there is an emphasis on quality and comfort.
First Class: Properties in this category offer a superior standard
of accommodation with well-appointed bedrooms and public areas. They
offer a wide range of facilities enhanced by a high standard of service.
Deluxe: Establishments providing the highest international standards
of accommodation and cuisine. With an excellent range of facilities
and outstanding service, properties in this category are considered
the best available in the country.
Check-in/Check-out Times: In most cases check-in time is 2:00pm
and check-out time is usually 11:00am.
Run of House: Unless otherwise stated, all prices are
based on "run of house" rooms. This policy entitles the hotel to
allocate any room type available to guests.
Climate
The North of New Zealand is sub-tropical. The
South may be cooler - snow can be experienced in Winter. If you are
traveling in the mountains, be sure to pack layered clothing and
a jacket.
Please note: While we take every care to ensure that this information
is correct at the time of printing, we urge you to check with the
relevant authorities such as your travel agent or Tourism New Zealand
to obtain the latest information prior to departure. |
