Traveller information
Local laws and conventions: Smoking is banned on public transport and in public buildings as well as in pubs or restaurants.
Penalties for possession and use of even small amounts of drugs are severe and may lead to prison sentences.
Should a visitor be invited to a formal Maori occasion, the hongi (pressing of noses) is common. Casual dress is widely acceptable.
Business approach is fairly conservative in New Zealand. Businesswear is generally conservative and suits are usually worn. Appointments are necessary and punctuality is appreciated. Business cards are normally exchanged. It can be difficult to schedule meetings in December and January since these are the prime months for summer vacations. The best months for business visits are February to April and October to November. Office hours are Mon–Fri 0900–1700.
Immigration and customs: Passports must be valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay.
New Zealand has strict bio-security regulations and it is illegal to import most foodstuffs; there are strict penalties imposed on those who break these rules. Care must also be taken if importing wood products, golf clubs, shoes and items made from animal skin.
Travel within the country: Traffic drives on the left. Car hire is available from airports and most major cities and towns and an international driving permit is recommended. The minimum age for driving a hired car is 21. Speed limits are 100kph on open roads and 50kph in built-up areas. Main roads are paved, but some country roads are not. Motor insurance is not a legal requirement in New Zealand, as it has removed the legal right of victims to sue a third party in the event of an accident. Therefore private accident insurance is strongly recommended. Drivers and passengers are legally required to wear seatbelts at all times.
New Zealand has a modern and efficient transport network. Regional bus services serve most parts of the country. Taxis are available throughout, and are metered.
Toll New Zealand runs New Zealand’s passenger train service and there are three scenic long-distance routes run by Tranz Scenic. All train services are one-class travel only. Commuter trains serve Auckland and Wellington.
Air New Zealand Link serves most of the smaller airports throughout the islands. The North and South Islands are also linked by regular ferry services.
Travel health: Comprehensive medical insurance is recommended. Medical facilities, both public and private, are of a high standard and many hotels have a doctor on call.
Adventure activities are very popular in New Zealand and visitors should ensure that their travel insurance adequately covers them for these.
Mains water is considered safe to drink. Milk is pasteurised.
Money: The local currency is the New Zealand dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted. Travellers cheques should be taken in pounds sterling, US dollars or Australian dollars in order to avoid additional exchange rate charges.
There were 2,348,000 tourist arrivals in 2004.