Rm. A-C, 11/F, Champion Building, 287-291 Des Voeux Road Central, Hong Kong

TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS.................................................................................................. 1
1. Important Addresses and Contact Information...............................................................3
a. Embassy Address.................................................................................................. 3
b. Important Numbers............................................................................................... 5
2. About the Country.................................................................................................. 7
a. Overview........................................................................................................... 7
1. Capital........................................................................................................... 7
2. Culture and Food:.............................................................................................. 7
3. Geography....................................................................................................... 7
4. Government:.................................................................................................... 8
5. Language:....................................................................................................... 8
6. Communications:............................................................................................... 8
b. History and Government......................................................................................... 8
1. History:.......................................................................................................... 8
2. Government:.................................................................................................... 9
c. Climate............................................................................................................. 9
d. Public holidays................................................................................................... 10
3. Profile............................................................................................................... 11
a. Social.............................................................................................................. 11
1. Demographics:................................................................................................. 11
2. Culture:........................................................................................................ 11
3. Social Conventions............................................................................................11
b. Business........................................................................................................... 11
1. Economy........................................................................................................ 11
2. Commercial Information:....................................................................................12
3. Conferences/Conventions centers:.........................................................................12
4. Leisure and Activities............................................................................................13
a. Sports.............................................................................................................. 13
1. Adventure Sports..............................................................................................13
2. Bungee Jumping............................................................................................... 13
3. Water Sports................................................................................................... 13
4. Winter Sports.................................................................................................. 14
5. Mountaineering................................................................................................ 14
6. Caving.......................................................................................................... 14
7. Mountain Biking...............................................................................................14
8. Golf............................................................................................................. 14
9. Walking......................................................................................................... 14
10. Fishing......................................................................................................... 14
11. Wildlife........................................................................................................ 15
12. Rugby.......................................................................................................... 15
Rm. A-C, 11/F, Champion Building, 287-291 Des Voeux Road Central, Hong Kong. 1
Tel: (852) 2366-6700 Fax: (852) 2366-6400 Email: links@linksrelo.com
b. Travel and Accommodation....................................................................................15
1. Hotels/Motels.................................................................................................. 15
2. Guest Houses/private Hotels:...............................................................................15
3. Camping/ Caravanning.......................................................................................15
4. Youth Hostels.................................................................................................. 16
5. Backpacking.................................................................................................... 16
6. Travel:.......................................................................................................... 16
8. International Travel.......................................................................................... 18
9. Internal Travel................................................................................................ 19
c. Shopping and Other Recreations..............................................................................20
1. Food and Drink................................................................................................ 20
2. Shopping........................................................................................................ 21
5. Legal Requirements for Travel and Shifting.................................................................22
a. Passport and Visa................................................................................................22
b. Money............................................................................................................. 23
c. Duty Free Articles...............................................................................................24
d. Health............................................................................................................. 24
6. Do’s and Don’ts..................................................................................................... 25
1. Important Addresses and Contact Information
Location: South Pacific.
Tourism New Zealand

Level 7, 89 The Terrace, Wellington, New Zealand
Tel: (4) 917 5400. Fax: (4) 915 3817. Web site: http://www.tourisminfo.govt.nz (trade information) or
http://www.purenz.com (consumer information).
Administrative headquarters only. Trade and consumer enquiries should be directed to NZTB's branches
around the world.
Travel Industry Association of America

1100 New York Avenue, NW, Suite 450, Washington, DC 20005-3925
Tel: (202) 408 8422. Fax: (202) 408 1255.
Web site: http://www.tia.org
a. Embassy Address:
British High Commission

Street address: 44 Hill Street, Wellington, New Zealand
Postal address: PO Box 1812, Wellington, New Zealand
Tel: (4) 472 6049. Fax: (4) 473 4982 or 471 1974 (consular section). E-mail: bhc.wel@xtra.co.nz
Web site: http://www.brithighcomm.org.nz
Embassy of the United States of America

Street address: 29 Fitzherbert Terrace, Thorndon, Wellington, New Zealand
Postal address: PO Box 1190, Thorndon, Wellington, New Zealand
Tel: (4) 472 2068. Fax: (4) 471 2380. Web site: http://www.usembassy.state.gov/wellington
Visa enquiries should be directed to the Consulate General in Auckland.
The Indian Embassy

High Commission of India, 180, Molesworth Street,
P.O.Box 4045, Wellington-6015, New Zealand
Tel: General/Consular Service; 04-473 6390, Trade Enquiry; 04-473 0162 (Only for Trade Matters, Fax:
04-499 0665,
Email: General Inquiries: hicomind@hicomind.org.nz
Visa, Passport & Consular Inquiries: consular@hicomind.org.nz
Commercial Inquiries: commerce@hicomind.org.nz
Canadian High Commission

PO Box 12049, Wellington, New Zealand
Tel: (4) 473 9577. Fax: (4) 471 2082. E-mail: wlgtn@dfait-maeci.gc.ca
Web site: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/newzealand
Government Trade Office in: Auckland.
Embassy of the Russian Federation,

c/o Karori Post Shop
Wellington
57 Messines Road, Karori, Wellington
tel. (04) 476 6113, fax (04) 476 3843, Email info@rus.co.nz
Consular section
Tel. (04) 476 6742, tel. (04) 476 9548 (visa issues)
Monday-Friday 9.30 a.m. - 1.00 p.m.
email wltvisa@xtra.co.nz (visa issues)
email consul@rus.co.nz (consular issues)
Singapore Embassy
17 Kabul Street
Khandallah
P O Box 13140, Johnsonville
Wellington 6440
Tel: 64 4 470 0850, Fax: 64 4 479 4066
Email: singhc_wlg@sgmfa.gov.sg
South Africa Consulate, New Zealand

22 The Anchorage, Whitby
Wellington, New Zealand
Phone: +64-4-2348006, +64-21-465254
Email: gfortuin@paradise.net.nz
Embassy of the United Arab Emirates

Chancery
12 Bulwarra Close
O'Malley ACT 2606
Tel: (02) 6286 8802, Fax: (02) 6286 8804
Email: UAEEMBASSY@bigpond.com
Web: www.uaeembassy.org.au
(The embassy also looks after Immigration to New Zealand)
Embassy of Switzerland
Panama House, 22 Panama Street, Wellington
PO Box 25004, Wellington 6146
Phone 04 472-1593 / Fax 04 499-6302
Email: Vertretung@wel.rep.admin.ch
Australia Embassy, New Zealand

72-76 Hobson Street, Thorndon, Wellington
Telephone: +64 (0)4 473 6411 - Fax: +64 (0)4 498 7135
Website: http://www.newzealand.embassy.gov.au/wltn/home.html
Embassy of France in New Zealand,

34-42 Manners Street, Wellington –
Tel: (64)384.25.55, Fax. (64)384.25.77
Email: admin: amba.france@actrix.co.nz, webmaster: presse.france@actrix.gen.nz
China Embassy ,
2-6 Glenmore Street, Kelburn, Wellington, New Zealand
Postal Address: PO Box 17257, Karori, Wellington, New Zealand
Country & Area Code:+64-4 Telephone: 4721382 Facsimile: 4990419
Emergency call: +64-21-528663
Website: http://www.chinaembassy.org.nz
Embassy of Italy
34-38 Grant Road
PO Box 463, Thorndon
Wellington, New Zealand
Tel: (0064-4)-4735 339
Email: ambasciata.wellington@esteri.it
The Embassy of Japan

Level 18 & 19,
The Majestic Centre,
100 Willis Street, PO Box 6340, Wellington
Phone: (04) 473-1540, Fax: (04) 471-2951
Email: Japan.emb@eoj.org.nz
Country dialling code: 1.
b. Important Numbers:
Emergency Contact No.: 111

(Police, Rescue, Fire, Medical)
Ambulance: 0800 426 285
Animal Disease: 0800 80 99 66
Electric Power Lines: 0508 60 70 80

(Mainpower New Zealand Limited)
Gas Direct Energy New Zealand Customers: 0800 567 777
Hutt Hospital: 04 566 6999
Porirua Hospital: 04 385 5999
Wellington Hospital: 04 385 5999
Poisons & Hazardous Chemicals-

For urgent information: 0800 764 766
National Poison Centre: 03 479 7248
(For non-urgent and general information)
Railway Emergencies: 0800 808 400
2. About the Country
a. Overview
Area: 270,534 sq km (104,454 sq miles).
Population: 4,116,000 (CIA estimate 2007).
Population Density: 15 per sq km.
1. Capital: Wellington. Population: 431,400 (2007). Auckland is the largest urban area in the country.
The population of Auckland is 1,330,000 (2007).
2. Culture and Food: The culture of New Zealand is a mixture of home-grown and imported cultures,
mostly influenced by the European especially the British. American, Australian and in the recent times
Pacific, East Asia and South Asia has also added to the cultural melting-pot. New Zealanders don’t have
a particular high regards for intellectual activity. They are often tempted to the international
accomplishments. The social policy in New Zealand oscillates between high levels of innovation and
progressiveness and an equally high level of conservatism. New Zealanders are also popular for its
regionalism and parochialism. The present day cuisine in New Zealand is a synthesis of Maori tradition,
old fashioned English cuisine and modern day dishes. Cakes, scones, muffins and desserts, sweet
potato, fern-root, taro, birds and fish are some of the delicacies.
3. Geography: New Zealand is located 1930km (1200 Miles) southeast of Australia. The country of New
Zealand consists of two major islands: The North Island (114,470 sq km/44,197 sq miles) and the South
Island (150,660 sq km/58,170 sq miles), these islands are separated by Cook Strait. Located
immediately to the south of South Island is the Stewart Island and to the east of Christchurch is the
Chatham Island. The temperature decreases as one goes from north to south. New Zealand is a small
country as compared to its neighbour Australia. Two third of the country’s terrain is occupied by
mountains, a region of swift-flowing rivers, deep alpine lakes and dense subtropical forest. Auckland,
the largest city in the country is located in the peninsular region of the North Island. Fertile coastal
plains rising up to volcanic peaks characterise the southern part of the North Island. 240 Km of
Auckland is Rotorua which is a famous tourist attraction. It is famous for thermal activity in the form of
geysers, pools of boiling mud, springs of hot mineral water, silica terraces, coloured craters and hissing
fumaroles. About one third of the population lives in South Island which is larger in size, than the North
Island. The Southern Alps span across the length of the Island. The country’s highest peak is Mount
Cook. The Franz Josef and Fox glaciers are also located in the same region.
Four Associated Territories also exists: The Cook Islands, about 3500km (2175 miles) northeast of New
Zealand; Niue, 920km (570 miles) west of the Cook Islands (area 260 sq km/100 sq miles); Tokelau,
three atolls about 960km (600 miles) northwest of Niue (area 12 sq km/4 sq miles) and the Ross
Dependency, which consists of over 700,000 sq km (270,270 sq miles) of the Antarctic.
4. Government: Since 1907 Constitutional Monarchy. Head of State is HM Queen Elizabeth II since
1952, represented locally by Governor-General Anand Satyanand since 2006. Head of the government is
Prime Minister Helen Clark since 1999.
5. Language: English is the official language of New Zealand. New Zealand’s second official language is
Maori which is spoken by a large number of people.
Religion: 55% Christian: Anglican, Presbyterian, Roman Catholic and Methodist are all represented.
Time: New Zealand: GMT + 12 (GMT + 13 from the last Sunday in October to the last Sunday in March).
Chatham Island: GMT + 12.45 (GMT + 13.45 from the last Sunday in October to the last Sunday in
March).
Electricity: 230/240 volts AC, 50Hz. 110-volt AC sockets are provided (rated at 20 watts) for electric
razors only in most hotels.
6. Communications:
Telephone: IDD and STD facilities are available. Country Code: 64, Outgoing international code: 00.
Most public phones accept phone cards which can be purchased from bookstalls. Some phones may
accept credit cards but very few accept coins.
Mobile: Telecom New Zealand (web site: http://www.telecom.co.nz) provides an extensive AMP
network and a smaller GSM 900 network. The company also provides handsets for hire. At Auckland and
Christchurch airports mobile telephone shops can be found.
Fax: Most hotels provide facilities.
Internet/E-mail: ISPs include Kiwilink (web site: http:///www.kiwilink.co.nz). In the city and smaller
town central business districts cybercafés are available. Internet may be accessed at many hotels and
youth hostels.
Post: Post offices are open 0900-1700 Monday to Friday. Airmail to Western Europe takes four to five
days and to the USA three to ten days.
Press: New Zealand Herald, The Press, Evening Post and The Dominion are the main daily newspapers.
BBC World Service frequencies: The frequencies are subject to change.

BBC: MHz15.3611.969.7407.145
Voice of America: MHz17.7415.2411.769.760
b. History and Government
1. History: The early settlers of New Zealand were Polynesian Maoris who inhabited the country some
1000 years ago. The tribal society was led by hereditary chiefs and a powerful priesthood. The
Dutchman Abel Tasman in 1642 was the first European arrival. In 1769 and 1779 with the voyages of
Captain James Cook the islands were charted and explored. During that period, with the establishment
of British Sovereignty, the British settlers began to immigrate to the island and Wellington was soon
founded. In 1852 New Zealand was granted internal self-government rights. There was a rapid growth
in investment, communications and agricultural production in the later years of the century. New
Zealand became the first country in 1893 to grant voting rights to women. In 1907 New Zealand became
a Dominion and the country’s forces participated in both the World War. The country is a part of
several international organisations like the Commonwealth, ANZUS, the Five Power Defence Agreement
and the South Pacific Forum. When David Lange of the Labour Party was selected as a prime minister in
1984 the membership with the Western Alliance was suspended temporarily as New Zealand was
declared nuclear-free. The country prevented the US and the British vessels which might be nuclear-
powered or carrying nuclear weapons from entering New Zealand's ports. Due to these policies the
country was put on the international stage. During this period the Lange’s government undertook some
radical economic reforms. In August 1989 Lange was replaced by Geoffrey Palmer who in turn resigned
in 1990 just weeks before the scheduled general election at the end of October 1990. The National
Party which came into the office swiftly changed the Labour government’s policy on visiting warships
but maintained a strong opposition on the French nuclear tests in the South Pacific. In 1997 the
diplomatic relations with France were resumed. In the early 1990s there was a recession in the
economy which sufficiently recovered by October 1993 in which the National Party returned to the
office with a narrow majority. In October 1996 New Zealand’s new electoral system was executed.
During the elections in the 1996 no party enjoyed an overall majority and hence a coalition between
the National Party and New Zealand First was formed with Jim Bolger as the Prime Minister. In
November 1997 Bolger resigned and was replaced by Jenny Shipley who became New Zealand’s first
Lady prime minister. Two years later, in 1999, Shipley faced the electorate against Helen Clark who
won at the elections with close margins. In September 2005 Clark was re-elected as Prime Minister for
the third time. Many controversial measures were addressed by her government one of which was the
decision to legalise prostitution. 2003 saw an increase in the tensions with the USA as the government
opposed the invasion of Iraq as it was New Zealand’s main trading partner.
2. Government: The unicameral 120 seat House of Representatives holds the legislative power. The
cabinet is elected for a term of 3 years. In the election of October 1996 the legislature increased form
99 to 120 seats as a new system of mixed member proportional representation was introduced. The
Prime Minister is the leader of the largest party in the House and holds executive power at the head of
an executive council (cabinet). The Governor General represents the British Monarch who is head of
the state.
c. Climate
In the North there is subtropical climate, while in the South the climate is temperate. Extreme heat or
cold don’t does not occur in the North. In the South, the winter can be quite cool with snow in the
mountains. In summer the eastern areas often experience drought conditions. More rains occur in the
west especially in the South Island. Clothing required: in the North Island lightweight cottons and linens
are suitable around the year. In the south Island Medium-weight clothing is worn during winter and
lightweight cottons and linens during summer. If visiting the rainforest areas of the South Island
carrying a rainwear is advisable.
d. Public holidays
1. 1-2 Jan New Year.
2. 6 Feb Waitangi Day.
3. 21-24 Mar Easter.
4. 25 Apr ANZAC Day.
5. 2 Jun Queen's Birthday.
6. 27 Oct Labour Day.
7. 25 Dec Christmas Day.
8. 26 Dec Boxing Day.
Notes: Each province also observes its particular anniversary day as a holiday.
3. Profile
a. Social
1. Demographics: New Zealand is mainly an urban country with 72.2% of the population living in 16
main urban centres. More than half of the population lives in the four largest cities of Auckland,
Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch. Nearly 78% of the population are the descendants of the
European ethnic groups and are collectively called Pākehā. Most European New Zealanders are
descendants of British and Irish ancestry, but there has been considerable immigration of the Dutch,
Dalmatian, Italian, and German population with indirect European immigration through Australia, North
America, South America and South Africa. Christianity is the predominant religion in New Zealand
which is held by 55.6% of the population as per the census in 2006. The 35% of the population in the
country has no religion while the remaining 5% belong to other religions. English and Maori are the
official language. Samoan is the non official language which is widely spoken. Apart from these French,
Hindi, Yue and Northern Chinese are also spoken.
2. Culture: New Zealand’s culture is an intersection of indigenous and foreign culture forms. With the
advent of the British colonists the aboriginal as well as colonist culture were affected and a distinctive
Pākehā or New Zealand European culture evolved. The recent immigration from the Pacific, East Asia
and South Asia has also added to the culture of New Zealand. The Maori and Western culture are the
two high culture of New Zealand. High levels of egalitarianism, anti-intellectualism, and the idea that
most people can do most things if they put their minds to it are the traits specific to the culture of
New Zealand.
3. Social Conventions: The Hongi (pressing of noses) is common if a visitor is invited to a formal Maori
occasion. Casual attire is widely acceptable and the people of New Zealand are usually very relaxed
and hospitable. After introduction stiff formality is rarely expected and generally first names are used.
If indicated, smoking should be prohibited. Tipping: Service charges or taxes are not added to the bills
and tips are usually not expected.
b. Business
1. Economy: Primarily New Zealand is thought of as an agricultural country. But the agriculture sector
in the country employs only 10% of the workforce and accounts for only 8% of the GDP. The sector is an
important source of export earnings especially from wool, meat and dairy products. The main crops are
barley, wheat, maize and fruit. The fishing industry has shown a rapid growth in the last few years.
Significant amount of energy related natural resources are there especially coal and natural gas.
Deposits of iron, gold and silica are also there. To replace the declining traditional industries, from the
late 1970s a new generation of industrial enterprises centred on these natural resources were
established. New Zealand underwent one of the most radical economic transformations from mid-1980s
to mid-1990s. Extensive privatisation, the dismantling of many welfare systems, abolition of subsidies
and tariff barriers and of a plethora of corporate regulations were carried out under these
transformations. Due to these reforms unemployment rose quickly which was at peak in mid-1990s and
still is a problem in some parts of the country. New Zealand overall is a progressive economy. The
economic performances have been variable due to the 1997/98 Asian financial crisis but now has
stabilised. Free trade zone has been established between New Zealand and Australia which is country’s
largest trading partner. Other major trading partners include Japan, the USA and the UK. New Zealand
is also a member of the various organisational bodies like Organisation for Economic Co-operation and
Development (OECD, the international forum for the world's main industrialised economies), the South
Pacific Forum (which aims to promote economic co-operation in the region) and the recently-
established Asian-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) forum.
Business: Business wear is in general conservative and suits are usually worn. Prior appointments must
be taken and punctuality must be observed. Business cards are exchanged and fairly conservative
approach towards business is there. February to April and October to November are the best months for
business visits.
2. Commercial Information: Organizations that can offer advice are:

Wellington Chamber of Commerce and Industry, PO Box 1590, Level 9, 109 Featherston Street,
Wellington (Tel: (4) 472 2725; fax: (4) 471 1767; info@wgtn-chamber.co.nz; web site:
http://www.wgtn-chamber.co.nz).
3. Conferences/Conventions centers: Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch are the largest

conference centres. Facilities are also provided by many hotels. In New Zealand there are over 20
regional convention bureaux most of which are members of NZ Convention Association (Inc), PO Box 33-
1202, Suite 3, Level 1, 15 Huron Street, Takapuna, Auckland (Tel: (9) 486 4128; fax: (9) 486 4126; e-
mail: info@nzconventions.co.nz; web site: http://www.conventionsnz.co.nz). The organisation is also
known as Conventions New Zealand.
4. Leisure and Activities
a. Sports
The wild coastline and national parks in New Zealand provide ample opportunities for many kinds of
outdoor activity. Some of the most pursued adventure sports today have originated in New Zealand.
Sailing, rugby, cricket, golf and other traditional sports are also pursued with unwavering passion.
1. Adventure Sports: New Zealand is a safe haven for all adventure seekers. The trip that combines a
helicopter flight, a bungee jump, high speed jetboating and whitewater rafting all in one day is an
adventurous adrenaline pumping trip for all who are in want of high spirits.
2. Bungee Jumping: New Zealand is a prime destination for bungee jumping and the sport was first
commercialised here. Kawaru River Bridge, the Skippers Bridge, the Pipeline, the Ledge (near
Queenstown), Taupo and Mangaweka (in the North Island), Hanmer Springs (in the South Island) and the
Bungee Rocket (at New Brighton Pier) are some of the jump-off points. Rap jumping is popular at
currently popular at the Bay of Islands, Auckland, Wanaka and Queenstown and abseiling is done
headfirst. Rangitaiki River near Rotorua (North Island) and Queenstown (South Island) are famous for
river sledding. Beginners’ courses in paragliding are available near Queenstown and Wanaka while
experienced paragliders may head to Christchurch, Wanaka or the Daney Pass. Jetboating can be done on
many of the country's best known rivers and involves of high-speed boat trips in special power boats. Surf
Rafting can be done at the Piha Beach (near Auckland, North Island) and the Otago Peninsula (near
Dunedin, South Island). Zorbing involves being strapped into an inflatable transparent plastic ball, which
is then rolled down a grassy hill or onto a river can be done in Queensland the ‘adventure capital’ of New
Zealand.
3. Water Sports: The 16,000km of the coastline in New Zealand provides suitable conditions for
swimming and diving. In Northland many dive spots are easily accessible from the shore. The Poor Knights
Islands (near Whangarei) are particularly prominent among divers (Jacques Cousteau cited them as on of
the world's top diving destinations). Various forms of diving are available, including kelp forests at
Stewart Island (home to the huge Paua shellfish), black and red coral in the Fiordlands, and wreck-diving,
notably at the Rainbow Warrior, the famous Greenpeace boat which was sunk off the Bay of Islands.
Diver's certification card is the important documentation needed for diving. Equipments and support
facilities may be rented from various dive stores. For more information contact: Dive Industry New
Zealand, PO Box 875, Auckland (Tel: (9) 623 3252; fax: (9) 623 3523; e-mail: nzu@nzunderwater.org.nz;
web site: http://www.nzunderwater.org.nz). Surfing is also a popular form of spot in the country.
Raglan, Murawai, Piha, Mahia Peninsula (near Gisborne) and Palliser Bay (near Wellington) are some of
the best breaks. It is possible to swim with dolphins in the Bay of Islands (north of Auckland), Whakatane,
the Coromandel Peninsula and Kaikoura (South Island). Advance booking is recommended. Whale
watching is possible on the eastern coast of South Island. For information contact Whale Watch (web site:
http://www.whalewatch.co.nz). Auckland is famous for sailing and yachting. Excursions to the remote
maritime reserves in the Bay of Islands, Hauraki Gulf and Marlborough Sounds are also possible. The
Wairora (near Tauranga), the Mohaka (in Hawke's Bay) and the Kaituna (near Rotorua), Whitewater
rafting trips ranging from a couple of hours to five days are available. Around Wellington, Taupo,
Auckland and the Bay of Islands, Windsurfing is very popular. Kayaking is popular on many rivers of New
Zealand.
4. Winter Sports: June to October provides good condition for skiing and snowboarding in New Zealand.
Whakapapa and Turoa are the best ski regions in North Island. The Southern Lakes region (particularly
Queenstown and Wanaka) and Mount Hutt (where the season is from late May to early November) are the
other good ski slopes. Heli-skiing trips are accessible in Wanaka, Queenstown and Mount Hutt, while
cross-country skiing can be doen done on a 26-km (16-mile) trail through the Pisa range near Wanaka.
Tasman, Fox and Franz Josef glaciers in the Southern Alps are good places for glacier skiing.
5. Mountaineering: In the Southern Hemisphere New Zealand have some of the highest peaks and
provide good opportunity for Mountaineering. It is advisable that climbers hire a commercial guide or
contact a local alpine club before setting out.
6. Caving: The ‘Lost World’ cave at the Waitomo Caves is the most visited. Cave rafting or tubing are
other ways to explore the many underground caves.
7. Mountain Biking: Bicycles are available on hire. Lifts up to volcano tops are provided by many special
tours. Cycle helmets are compulsory and most buses allow bicycles on board.
8. Golf: There are over 400 beautiful golf courses in New Zealand. As compared to other countries green
fees are relatively low. Most clubs receive visitors, but it is best to telephone in advance, particularly at
weekends. For more information contact the New Zealand Golf Association (fax: (4) 499 7330; web site:
http://www.nzga.co.nz).
9. Walking: For all ages and levels of fitness a variety of walks are available. The cCountry’s many
footpaths pass through national parks or protected forest areas. Categorisation of trails is are done
according to four different ways: paths (easy, suitable for all ages and fitness levels, including
wheelchair users), walking tracks (easy), tramping tracks (more demanding, requiring good fitness) and
routes (very challenging and for experienced hikers only). There are eight different walks singled out by
the Department of Conservation (DOC) which are best known and most popular and include the Lake
Waikaremoana Track (in Te Urewara National Park), the Abel Tasman Coastal Track (New Zealand's most
widely used recreational track), the Milford Track (the country's most famous track in World Heritage-
listed Fiordland Park) and the Rakiura Track (a remote walk on Stewart Island to New Zealand's
southernmost parts). Accommodation is provided en route and can range from basic camping to
comfortable lodges. Traversing the tracks may take from one day to several days. Walkers attempting to
travel on the remote tramping tracks must be pro at map reading and usage of compass. A Great Walk
Pass can be obtained from the Department of Conservation. The offices of the organisation are located
throughout the country. For more information contact: the Department of Conservation in Wellington
(Tel: (4) 472 5821; fax: (4) 499 0077; web site: http://www.doc.govt.nz).
10. Fishing: Trout, particularly Brown and Rainbow are very popular. Waimakariri, Rakaia, Rangitata and
Waitaki rivers on the East Coast Salmon Fishing is very popular. A special fishing Tourist Licence is issued
which allows holders to fish anywhere in the country for a one-month period. Permits are required for
the fishing of Trout and Salmon. For information contact: the New Zealand Professional Fishing Guides
Association, PO Box 16, Motu, Gisborne (Tel: (6) 863 5822; fax: (6) 863 5844; web site:
http://www.troutnewzealand.com).
11. Wildlife: The country has many unique species of plants and animals and in case of the birds this is
particularly true. The country attracts birdwatchers from all over the world. Many of the country’s birds
live on grounds due to the lack of predators. Kiwi is the best known native bird. The emu, the kea and
weka as well as the endangered kakapo, the world's largest parrot include some other birds. The weta (a
mouse-sized cricket), and the tuatara (a reptile whose lineage stretches back to the dinosaurs) can be
seen in New Zealand. Famous sites for birdwatching include Taiaroa Head (near Dunedin). The sites are
known for colonies of royal albatrosses. At Stewart Island kiwis can be observed at night.
12. Rugby: The national sports of New Zealand are Rugby, netball and cricket. A number of triathlon
races and endurance events are held throughout the year. Other popular sports include lawn balls and
sheep dog trail.
b. Travel and Accommodation
1. Hotels/Motels: A wide range of top class hotels exclusive retreats, motels, moderately priced
accommodation and guest-houses are available in New Zealand. The hotels in rural area are cheaper than
the city. A choice of budget hotels and motels is available in every city and town. Budget
accommodations with self-catering facility are also popular. For more information contact the Motel
Association of New Zealand (Inc), Level 5, Paxus House, 79 Boulcott Street, Wellington (tel: (4) 499 6415;
fax: (4) 499 6416; web site: http://www.manz.co.nz); or the Hospitaity Association of New Zealand, PO
Box 503, 8th Floor, Education House, 178-182 Willis Street, Wellington (Tel: (4) 385 1369; fax: (4) 384
8044; website: http://www.hanz.org.nz). Disabled travellers: As per the law, reasonable and adequate
access for people with disabilities must be provided by every new building and major reconstruction.
Grading: Hotels are graded on the scale of 1-4 stars while motels are graded on a scale of 1-5 stars.
2. Guest Houses/private Hotels: Moderately-priced accommodation can be availed in restored older

buildings, guest houses and private hotels. Bathroom facility is often shared but the standards are
generally high. Country Pubs: This is the cheapest form of accommodation usually available on the west
coast of the South Island. Farm and home stay: Farm holidays are arranged by many big companies where
travellers can stay as a guest with a family. These farms at times are located at a suitable distance fro
pursuing outdoor activities like fishing, skiing and horse trekking. Breakfast and dinner are usually
included in the price. Holdsworth offers an independent review of various types of accommodation in
New Zealand (web site: http://lodgings.co.nz).
3. Camping/ Caravanning: New Zealand is known to have some of the world's best camping grounds.
There is a variation of rates and facilities. It is recommended to make advance bookings from December
to Easter. Motorcamps, cabins, tourist flats: 'Motorcamps' provide a combination of facilities like camping
grounds, tent and caravan sites (with electricity), simple cabin accommodation with central communal
bathroom and cooking facilities. They are characteristic to the country and can be found everywhere.
Tents and equipment, which can be hired from a number of companies, should be provided by the
visitors. Occupants must carry their own linen, blankets and cutlery. For budget travellers cabins are
ideal. Tourist flats are usually costly and provide facilities like sheets and bedding as well as fully-
equipped kitchens. Details can be obtained from New Zealand tourism.
4. Youth Hostels: 58 hostels are operated by the Youth Hostel Association throughout the country, and
reservations can be made in advance from December to March. The association's address is PO Box 436,
Christchurch (Tel: (3) 379 9970; fax: (3) 365 4476; e-mail: info@yha.org.nz; web site:
http://www.yha.org.nz).
5. Backpacking: Backpackers’ hostels are situated across the country. For information contact The
Budget Backpacker Hostels (BBH), 99 Titiraupenga Street, Taupo, New Zealand (tel: (7) 377 1568; e-mail:
bbh@backpack.co.nz; web site: http://www.backpack.co.nz). A Backpacker card costing NZ$20, and
entitling the holder to discounted transport within New Zealand is issued by the BBH.
6. Travel:
North Island: Most likely the visitors arrive at in Auckland, the New Zeeland’s centre of commerce.
Auckland is also famous for it beautiful scenery. The attractive twin harbours and sandy beaches lie in
the east and to the west are located the black-sand beaches and the rugged Waitakere rainforest. The
city has excellent shopping, galleries, museums and theatres with a multicultural feel. The beach and
town at Takapuna are worth a visit. Small beaches stretched across the country are an ideal for a quiet
and relaxing holiday. The Northland forest park is the home to some of the oldest tress in the world and
an attractive destination for hikers. Cape Karikari is famous for wide, rugged, dark sand beach
surrounded by steep hills and craggy rocks. The Bay of Island consists of 144 islands which are renowned
for excellent diving, boating and game fishing. The Pacific Coast highway is another beautiful touring
route, at the head of which is the remote East Cape and heading down to Hawke's Bay and Napier. To the
east of Auckland is Coromandel peninsula which is the home of spectacular coastline including sandy
beaches, Korokawa (rugged site of an ancient gold mine) and warm water springs, one of the best-known
being located at Hot Water Beach. The Bay of plenty is a popular tourist destination of the region. On the
southern end of the Pacific Coast Highway, Hawke’s Bay is situated which known for its high annual
sunshine hours and numerous vineyards. The bay is also home to the largest native forest on the North
Island, Te Urewera National Park which is listed in UNESCO. Further south on the North Island are the
famous water-sculptured Waitamo limestone caverns and glow-worm grottoes. Rotorua which lies 150 km
west of Waitamo is a geothermal city and a best known tourist place in the country. It is also a major
centre of Maori culture. Good facilities for fishing are available in the north-eastern coastal towns and at
Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand. To the south of the Lake Taupo lies Tongariro National
Park. The park is listed in UNESCO and is home to the highest mountain in the area, the Mount Ruapehu
(2797m/9177ft), still an active volcano, and a major ski resort. Whauganui River lies to the west coast of
the North Island and is New Zealand's longest navigable waterway. The Whanganui National Park and
Egmont National Park lies in the heart of the river and has been declared a World Heritage Site by
UNESCO. The areas are famous for the trails available for nature walks. The country’s capital Wellington
is the country's centre of culture, arts, restaurants, fashion and nightlife. The rural Wairarapa area
(home to a number of wineries and forest parks), Cape Palliser (whose wild coastline provides a habitat
for large colonies of seals) and the Kapiti Coast (home to a bird sanctuary at Kapiti Island Nature Reserve
and renowned for its white sandy beaches) are the popular destination for excursion from Wellington.
South Island: Marlborough Sounds situated to the north of South Island attract numerous boating, fishing
or swimming enthusiasts. The province is well known for wine and food. Nelson, a garden town with
spectacular beaches and a growing arts community is also worth seeing. The city serves as a good starting
point for excursion to the nearby national parks. Abel Tasman National Park, a UNESCO listed site has a
rocky coastline with good beaches. Another such UNESCO listed site is the Nelson Lakes National Park
offering winter activities during winter and swimming in the summer. The well known Heaphy Track is
situated in the Kahurangi wilderness, another UNESCO World Heritage area. The place has some good
selection of walking trails. The Kaikoura coast, further south is a conservation area for whales. The
'Garden City' of Christchurch is the largest city in South Island. An English styled city lies at banks of river
Avon and is lined by tree-lined avenues, old stone buildings and stately homes. The Old Canterbury
University, the Canterbury Museum, the Chamber of Commerce Building, Riccarton House and the
Provincial Council Buildings are some of the sites that can be visited. The Banks Peninsula near
Christchurch has a number of excellent beaches and bays suitable for swimming and other water sports.
Passing through a land of densely wooded hills, lakes, vast open spaces, and glaciers a number of roads
lead to the Southern Alps from Christchurch. Mount Cook National Park containing more than 20 peaks
over 3000m/9840ft is a UNESCO World Heritage area. On one side of the Mount COOK Cook is the Tasman
Glacier which is the longest glacier out side the Himalayas. The small town near Arthur’s Pass is a good
starting point for climbing and trekking trips to the UNESCO-listed Arthur's Pass National Park nearby.
One of New Zealand's wildest and most untouched natural areas; the West coast is situated at the foot of
the Southern Alps' western slopes. The Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Region is a renowned destination
for trekking and outdoor activities consists of five UNESCO-listed national parks. The spectacular Fox and
Franz Josef Glaciers are worth a visit. The Fiordland region also listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage
area, lies further south and offers huge tracks of unexplored wilderness consisting of numerous lakes,
mountains and a pristine coast. Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand and Te Anau, the
walking capital of the country are situated in the South Island. Lake Manapouri starting point for the
famous Doubtful Sound walking trek is located near Te Anau. Milford Sound is situated towards the north
of Te Anau is also a worth visit. Invercargill has many museums, including the Subantarctic Audio Visual
and Gallery, which displays the flora and fauna of New Zealand's sub-Antarctic islands. The nearby Otago
Peninsula is well-known for its wildlife, which includes colonies of the rare yellow-eyed penguin named
hoiho. The Catlins Forest Park situated nearby, offers a number of scenic walking routes. Stewart Island
New Zealand third largest island lies across the Foveaux Strait.
8. Travel Spots: Some famous travel sots are as given below:
Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa: Located on Wellington’s waterfront the Te Papa (meaning
‘Our Place’ in Maori) is the national museum of New Zealand. The Museum depicts the culture of the
country and has been acclaimed internationally for its ultra-modern and interactive displays. The
museum houses many national artefacts, enabling visitors to learn about the art, history and natural
environment of New Zealand.
Fiordland National Park: The Fiordland National Park is New Zealand’s largest national park at nearly 1.2
million hectares. Milford Sound is the largest glacier-carved fiord on New Zealand’s coastline attracts
large numbers of sightseers and cruise ships every year. Hiking, sea kayaking, diving, cycling, golf, fishing
and sailing are some of the popular activities of the park. The Milford Track a 53.5km trail from Glade
Wharf to Sandfly Point is one of the finest walk in the world, taking visitors on a rugged, alpine journey
through the park’s most breathtaking scenery.
Sky City Tower: The 328m high tower is situated in the Sky City entertainment complex in Auckland. The
complex houses Sky City Casino, Sky City Theatre, Sky City Hotel and Conference Centre and Sky City
Restaurants. The tower was designed by Craig Moller and one can see upto 82Km on a clear day from the
Sky Deck the highest observation level in the tower.
Aoraki Mount Cook: The highest mountain in the New Zealand is Mount Cook. The mountain is 3754m
(12,316ft) high and attracts climbers from all over the world to its snow-covered peaks. It is located in
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, on New Zealand’s South Island. The Tasman Glacier, Hooker Glacier,
Murchison Glacier Mount Tasman and Mount Dampier are worth seeing. Helicopter rides, alpine flights,
horse trekking, hunting and fishing, mountain biking and hiking through the mountains are the possible
outdoor activities.
Tongariro National Park: The Tongariro National Park is the first national park of New Zealand gifted by
the Tuwharetoa Maori chief Te Heuheu Tukino IV in 1887 to queen Victoria. Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and
the largest, Ruapehuare are the three active volcanoes of the region. Alongside forests and tussock
lands, some resemble a lunar landscape. The Tongariro Crossing which offers magnificent volcanic
scenery and fine views of Lake Taupo and Mount Taranaki is visited by many hikers every year.
8. International Travel
The information given is generic in Nature.
Air: Air New Zealand (NZ) is the country’s national airline.
Approximate flight timings: Auckland to London is 28 hours; Wellington to London is 30 hours;

Christchurch to London is 30 hours 30 minutes.
Auckland to Los Angeles is 12 hours 45 minutes; Auckland to New York is 17 hours 45 minutes; Auckland
to Singapore is 11 hours 15 minutes, and Auckland to Sydney is 3 hours 20 minutes.
International Airport: Auckland (AKL) (web site: http://www.auckland-airport.co.nz) is 22.5km (14 miles)
south of the city (travel time - 40 minutes). From the airport buses and taxis are available to the city.
Christchurch (CHC) airport is 10km (6 miles) northwest of the city (travel time - 20 minutes). From the
airport buses and taxis are available to the city.
Wellington (WLG) is 8km (5 miles) southeast of the city (travel time - 30 minutes). Buses and taxis are
available to the city.
Incoming duty-free shop with a full range of items, car hire (Avis, Budget and Hertz), bank/currency
exchange facilities open to cover the times of all international flights, telephone booths for hotel
reservations and visitor information centres is the range on facility available on all the above airports.
Departure Tax: Up to NZ$25 (depending on airport); children aged under 12 are exempt. Children aged
between 2-11 leaving from Wellington pay NZ$10.
Sea: Auckland, Wellington, Lyttelton, Dunedin, Picton and Opua are the major ports served by
international shipping lines sailing from the USA and from Europe. For more information contact Tourism
New Zealand.
9. Internal Travel
Air: Air New Zealand (NZ), Mount Cook Airlines and Qantas New Zealand are the domestic operators. The
services are available between major airports as well as 27 other airports throughout the two islands.
Rail: Tranz Rail Ltd is the main service provider. Reliable rail services are provided on 4000km (2485
miles) of railway with many routes of great scenic attraction. Eight scenic long-distance trains are
operated by Tranz Scenic. The connection between Auckland and Wellington, the Overlander, runs
through good views of forests, gorges and volcanic peaks. Christchurch and Picton are linked by the
Coastal Pacific which runs along the east coast between the snow-capped Kaikoura Mountains.
Christchurch and Greymouth are connected through the TranzAlpine running across the spectacular
landscapes of gorges and river valleys and across the snow-capped Southern Alps. Express services are
also available between Auckland and Rotorua, Auckland and Tauranga and Wellington and Napier. Only
one class travel is available. Some trains have dining cars and sleeping cars are not available in overnight
services. For details contact: Tranz Rail Reservations (tel: (4) 498 3303; fax: (4) 498 3090; e-mail:
passengerservices@tranzrail.co.uk; web site: http://www tranzrail.co.nz) or Tranz Scenic (tel: (0 800)
802 802 (toll free; New Zealand only).
Travel Pass: Unlimited travel on InterCity coaches, Tranz Scenic trains and Interislander ferry services
across Cook Strait can be availed through 'Travelpass New Zealand'. It can be bought outside New Zealand
and is issued for periods between 5 days and over 8 weeks. All train and ferry services as well as selected
coach services and the Taeri Gorge Railway for travel over 180 days are included in the 'Best of New
Zealand Pass'. For more information contact Tourism New Zealand.
Road: Left Side traffic and there are 92,000km (57,200 miles) of roads. Coach: InterCity Coachlines (web
site: http://www.intercitycoach.co.nz). Scheduled services are operated across the country by the
coach. Services for both the island are operated by Newmans Coachlines (web site:
http://www.newmanscoach.co.nz). Reservation should be made in advance. For details contact an
InterCity Travel Centre or Tourism New Zealand. Bus: Most part of the country is served by regional bus
networks. Car hire: it is advisable to hire vehicles from members of the New Zealand Vehicle Rental &
Leasing Association. Most international firms and local firms are located at the airports and, almost
major cities. 21 is the minimum age for driving. 100kph (60 mph) speed limit on open roads and 50 kph
(30 mph) speed limit in built-up areas is permissible. Distances are indicated in kilometres and seat belts
must be worn at all time by driver and passengers. For information contact: The New Zealand Automobile
Association (tel: (9) 377 4660; fax: (9) 309 4563). Documentation: National driving licences are valid for
nationals of 52 countries, including EU countries, Australia, Canada, USA, South Africa, Switzerland, and
Norway. For further information, contact Tourism New Zealand
Urban: All main towns have comprehensive local bus services. Trolley buses are available in Wellington.
Zonal fares with pre-purchase tickets and day passes are available in Auckland and Wellington.
Sea: Links between the North and the South island are available. Modern ferries operate between
Wellington and Picton, carrying passengers and vehicles across Cook Strait. The Interislander runs several
times in a day between Wellington and Picton and is good connection for several long distance trains. A
high-speed catamaran, the Lynx takes 1 hour 45 minutes and operates during summer months. Top Cat a
connection between Wellington and Picton (web site: http://topcatferry.co.nz) is an inter-island fast
ferry taking 1 hour 40 minute. It is recommended to have the reservations in advance on all ferries. For
information call Tourism New Zealand or via the Tranz Rail reservation line (tel: (4) 498 3303 or (0 800)
802 802, toll free; New Zealand only).
Travel time: The chart below gives approximate travel times (in hours and minutes) from Sydney to
other major cities.
Air Road Rail

Auckland 1.00 9.00 10.00
N. Plymouth 1.00 8.30 -
Christchurch 0.45 *7.20 *5.20
Dunedin 1.20 *12.20 -
Note- * Plus ferry crossing time of 3 hours.
c. Shopping and Other Recreations
1. Food and Drink: New Zealand is one of the leading producers of meat and dairy product in the world.
Lamb, beef and pork could be found in most of the menus. Venison, locally produced vegetables, such as
kumara are widely available. Snapper, grouper and John Dory include the wide range of fish available.
Whitebait, oysters, crayfish, scallops and game birds are some of the seasonal delicacies. Brie,
Camembert, Bleu de Bresse and Montagne Bleu are the various types of cheese available. Pavlova, a large
round cake with a meringue base, topped with fruit and cream is the country’s traditional dessert. Apart
from some exclusive ones, restaurants are generally informal. Barbecue facilities are available in many
picnic areas. Self-service and fast food joints are available. Some restaurants invite the customer to 'BYO'
(bring your own liquor). Drink: New Zealand is the producer of some of the international award winning
wines and beers. Variety domestic and imported wines, spirits and beers are available from hotel bars,
'liquor stores' and wine shops. Bars have counter service and informal atmosphere in public bars. Lounge
bars and 'house bars' (for hotel guests only) sometimes have more formal and occasionally have table
service. 18 is the minimum drinking age. In major cities there may be some variations in the licensing
hours. On Sunday some hotels and bars are open. Licensing hours are 1100-2300 except Sunday in most
hotels and taverns.
2. Nightlife: New Zealand is the home to an active and varied entertainment industry. Ranging from
drama, comedy and musicals to pop concerts and shows good entertainment is provided by the theatres.
Shows of international performers and guest artist in large cities are staged. For information on the
shows visitors must check 'What's On' in local papers. Cinemas and small nightclubs are also there in large
cities. Information is also available on (web site: http://www.itsoninnz.co.nz).
3. Shopping: Distinctive jewellery made from New Zealand greenstone (a kind of jade) and from the
beautiful translucent paua shell includes the special purchase. The carved greenstone tiki (a unique
Maori charm) and intricate woodcarvings often inlaid with paua shell are some of the Maori arts and craft
that can be purchased. Woollen goods, travel rugs, lambswool rugs, leather and skin products are some
other items that can be bought. All shops and businesses are open 0900-1700 Monday to Saturday. On
Sunday, 1000-1300 hrs, stores and most malls are also open. Most shops are also open in the evenings in
resorts.
5. Legal Requirements for Travel and Shifting
a. Passport and Visa
Passport required Visa required Return Ticket required

British Yes 1 Yes
Australian Yes No No
Canadian Yes No Yes
USA Yes No Yes
Other EU Yes 2 Yes
Japanese Yes No Yes
Passport: All require valid passport for at least 3 months beyond the intended period of stay. New
Zealand doesn’t recognise some governments. Citizens in doubt should check with the New Zealand
Immigration Service.
Visas: Required by all except the following:

(a) Countries referred to in the chart above, including US nationals from American Samoa, Swains Island
and nationals of New Zealand Associated Territories (Cook Islands, Tokelau and Niue) for up to 3 months,
although transit visas are required for the following nationals only holding one way tickets: Cook Islands,
Fiji, Indonesia, Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tahiti, Tokelau and Tonga;
(b) For 1 Above. Nationals of the UK and other British passport holders who have evidence of the right to
live permanently in the UK for visits of up to 6 months providing they hold a passport valid for 6 months
beyond departure date and onward or return tickets;
(c) 2. Nationals of EU countries for visits up to 3 months, but Portuguese nationals must have right of
residence in Portugal;
(d) Nationals of Andorra, Argentina, Bahrain, Brazil, Brunei, Chile, Hong Kong (Special Administrative
Region or British Nationals Overseas passports), Hungary, Iceland, Israel, Kiribati, Korea (Rep. of),
Kuwait, Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Malta, Monaco, Nauru, Norway, Oman, Qatar, San Marino, Saudi Arabia,
Singapore, Slovenia, South Africa, Switzerland, Thailand, Tuvalu, United Arab Emirates, Uruguay, Vatican
City and Zimbabwe for visits of up to 3 months;
(e) Transit passengers continuing their journey by the same or first connecting aircraft within 24 hours,
providing they hold onward or return documentation and are not leaving the airport (some nationals
passing through New Zealand always require a transit visa, even when not leaving the airport; enquire at
the New Zealand Immigration Service for details).
Note: All nationals listed above must have adequate funds to cover the period of stay. This may be
NZ$1000 for each person for every month or NZ$400 if the lodgings is already paid for.
Types of Visas and cost: Visitor: £30. Transit: £35. Work: £45. Student: £40. Residents: £200, per
application for a family of four. For details of special visitor categories, including group, conference and
business visitor visas, contact the New Zealand Immigration Service.
Validity: The maximum period most visitors can remain in New Zealand is 9 months within an 18-month
period. Visitors not requiring visas are initially allowed a stay for up to 3 months, after which they can
apply in New Zealand for an extension of up to 9 months.
Application to: Consulate (or Consular section at Embassy or Immigration Service at High Commission).
Application requirements:
Visitor: (a) Completed application form. (b) 1 passport-size photo. (c) Passport valid for 3 months beyond
the date of departure. (d) Sufficient funds for duration of stay. (e) Onward or return ticket. (f) Fee
(payable in cash or by bank/building society cheque, credit card, money order or bank draft). (g) For
business trips, a company/sponsor letter.
Work: (a)-(g) and, (h) Valid offer of employment in writing from a New Zealand employer with a full job
description and, in many cases, confirmation that that position cannot be filled by a New Zealander.
Student: (a)-(g) and, (h) Confirmation of placement at an approved educational institution.
Working days required: Visitor and Transit: 7. Work: 14. Student: 7. Residents: 3-4 months. Returning
Residents: 14.
Temporary residence: Enquire at the nearest New Zealand High Commission or Immigration Service for
details.
b. Money
Currency: New Zealand Dollar (NZ$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of NZ$100, 50, 20, 10 and
5. Coins are in denominations of NZ$2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10 and 5 cents.
Currency Exchange: Exchange facility widely available throughout New Zealand.
Credit Cards: MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club and Visa are widely accepted. For details on
merchant acceptability and other services which may be available please check with your credit card
company.
Travellers Cheques: Most of the trading banks, large hotels and some shops exchange these at official
rates. It is advisable to take travellers’ cheques in US Dollars, Pounds Sterling or Australian Dollars to
avoid additional charges.
Exchange Rates: The exchange rate as of July 2008 is: 1.00 USD= 1.37605 NZD
Currency restrictions: There are no restrictions on the import and export of foreign or local currency.
Banking hours: 0900-1630 Monday to Friday.

c. Duty Free Articles:
Goods that may imported to New Zealand without incurring customs duty, by passengers above 17 years
of age are as given below:
200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco or a mixture of all three weighing no more than 250g; 4.5
litres of wine or beer; 1.125 litres or 40oz of spirits or liqueurs; goods to a total value of NZ$700.
Prohibited items: Due to the importance of agriculture and horticulture in New Zealand, certain animal
products, fruit, plant material or foodstuffs that could contain plant or animal pests may not be allowed
into the country. For more information, contact the nearest Embassy, High Commission or Consulate. The
import of following items is prohibited: firearms and weapons (unless a special permit is obtained from
the New Zealand police); ivory in any form; tortoise or turtle shell jewellery and ornaments; medicines
using musk, rhinoceros or tiger derivatives; carvings or anything made from whalebone or bone from any
other marine animals; cat skins or coats and certain drugs (eg diuretics, depressants, stimulants, heart
drugs, tranquillisers, sleeping pills) unless covered by a doctor's prescription.
d. Health:
Special Precautions Certificate Required

Yellow Fever No No
Cholera No No
Typhoid and Polio No -
Malaria No -
Food and Drink 1 -
1. Tap water is safe to drink. Pasteurised milk is available and dairy products are safe to consume. Local
meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.
No snakes and dangerous animals are present in New Zealand. Sandflies are prevalent in Fiordland which
can be effectively countered with insect repellent. The only poisonous creature is the very rare katipo
spider.
Health Care: High standard medical facility available. Telephone numbers of doctors and hospitals are
available on the front pages of the white pages. Refer to 'Urgent Pharmacies' in the local telephone
directory for the location of the nearest pharmacy should the visitors need drugs or pharmaceutical
supplies outside normal shopping hours. Many hotels provide doctors on call facility. Long-staying visitors
with a valid permit to stay for two or more years are entitled to health care services on the same basis as
New Zealand citizens. The citizens of UK are entitled to a reciprocal health agreement. This agreement
enables the short-term British visitors to avail treatment at publicly-funded health centres. They will
receive free treatment as a hospital inpatient, but must pay some charges for any services provided by
outpatients and private doctors. Medical insurance is advised to cover any additional charges.
6. Do’s and Don’ts
New Zealand, especially during winters can be treacherous hence those travelling to remote areas should
ensure that their journey details are made known to local authorities or friends/relatives before setting
out.
Most visits to New Zealand are trouble-free but it is advisable to remain aware of the global risk of
indiscriminate international terrorist attacks, which could target civilians, including places frequented by
foreigners
Above advices are based on the information provided by Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK and
is correct at time of publishing. Visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest
travel advice as the situation can change rapidly.
British Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk
US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Location: South Pacific.

Tourism New Zealand

Travel Industry Association of America

British High Commission

Embassy of the United States of America

The Indian Embassy

Canadian High Commission

Embassy of the Russian Federation,

South Africa Consulate, New Zealand

Embassy of the United Arab Emirates

Australia Embassy, New Zealand

Embassy of France in New Zealand,

The Embassy of Japan

Country dialling code: 1.

Emergency Contact No.: 111

Ambulance: 0800 426 285

Animal Disease: 0800 80 99 66

Electric Power Lines: 0508 60 70 80

Gas Direct Energy New Zealand Customers: 0800 567 777

Porirua Hospital: 04 385 5999

Wellington Hospital: 04 385 5999

Poisons & Hazardous Chemicals-

Railway Emergencies: 0800 808 400

Area: 270,534 sq km (104,454 sq miles).

Population: 4,116,000 (CIA estimate 2007).

Population Density: 15 per sq km.

Fax: Most hotels provide facilities.

BBC World Service frequencies: The frequencies are subject to change.

b. History and Government

Notes: Each province also observes its particular anniversary day as a holiday.

2. Commercial Information: Organizations that can offer advice are:

3. Conferences/Conventions centers: Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch are the largest

b. Travel and Accommodation

2. Guest Houses/private Hotels: Moderately-priced accommodation can be availed in restored older

8. Travel Spots: Some famous travel sots are as given below:

The information given is generic in Nature.

Air: Air New Zealand (NZ) is the country’s national airline.

Approximate flight timings: Auckland to London is 28 hours; Wellington to London is 30 hours;

Air Road Rail

Note- * Plus ferry crossing time of 3 hours.

c. Shopping and Other Recreations

a. Passport and Visa

Passport required Visa required Return Ticket required

Visas: Required by all except the following:

Currency Exchange: Exchange facility widely available throughout New Zealand.

Banking hours: 0900-1630 Monday to Friday.

Special Precautions Certificate Required

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office

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