New Zealand travel information

Print our full travel guide to New Zealand

Guide:

Regions & Cities:

Activities

New Zealand Map

The Basics

Time: Local time is GMT +12 (GMT +13 from the last Sunday in October to the last Sunday in March).

Electricity: Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Oblique flat blade plugs are standard.

Language: The official languages in New Zealand are English and Maori.

Travel Health: There are no health risks associated with travel to New Zealand. New Zealand's accident compensation scheme (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.

Tipping: Gratuities are not expected in New Zealand and service charges are not applied to bills, but it is acceptable to tip at your discretion.

Safety Information: New Zealand has a reputation as one of the safest destinations in the world, however sensible precautions against petty theft are still advised.

Local Customs: Quarantine procedures mean that strict bio-security regulations are in place at immigration points into New Zealand. It is illegal to import most foodstuffs, and care should be taken when importing wood products, golf clubs and shoes (which may have soil and dirt attached), and items made from animal skin. The immigration arrivals card has full details.

Business: Business in New Zealand is usually conducted formally and conservatively. Standard business etiquette applies; punctuality is important, business attire is formal (for men and women suits are appropriate), meetings begin and end with a handshake and business cards are exchanged. Business hours are usually 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.

Communications: 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). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)9 for Auckland and (0)4 for the Wellington region. Vodafone offers GSM 900 coverage in and around the main cities and popular holiday areas. Internet cafes are widely available.

Duty Free: Travellers to New Zealand over 17 years do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco, or a proportionate mix of these; 1.125 litres or 1 litre spirits or liqueurs, and 4.5 litres wine, port or sherry, or 4.5 litres beer. 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).

New Zealand travel Forum