New Zealand Travel Guide

New Zealand Travel Guide

New ZealandNew Zealand, 'Land of the Long White Cloud', is a small, sparsely populated country consisting of two major islands, North and South Island, and a scattering of smaller ones. Despite its small size it is crammed with magnificent natural beauty and has an incredible amount to offer; the only complaint travellers have is that they haven't allowed enough time in the country. Fresh air, breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities are the main attractions of New Zealand, with a tremendously friendly, honest and helpful population, colloquially nicknamed after their country's distinct symbol, the unusual but amiable flightless kiwi bird.The two islands have surprisingly different characters. The North Island has dramatic volcanic landscapes and highly active thermal areas, long stretches of beautiful beaches and excellent sailing, ancient indigenous forests and a strong Maori cultural influence. The South Island has a slower pace of life dominated by a magnificent spine of mountains, the snow-covered Southern Alps, and the spectacular scenery of the southern waterways of the fjord lands, with glaciers, deep lakes and verdant forests.The signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840 was New Zealand's founding document, an attempt to settle disputes between the European settlers and the Maoris, conceding the country to British rule while guaranteeing the Maori people possession of their land and cultural identity. Today, integration has been replaced by a policy of upholding two different cultures alongside each other. Their shared love of sport, most notably the revered national sport of rugby union, and their enthusiasm for adventure and the outdoors is the unifying factor among the whole population.New Zealand offers a huge variety of action-packed and laid back activities, from bungee jumping to skiing, swimming with dolphins, scenic flights and boat cruises on the fjords, as well as several world famous walking trails with unrivalled scenery. Alternatively visitors can immerse themselves in culture at the museums and galleries of the country's main cities - Auckland and the capital Wellington in the North, and Christchurch in the south.New Zealand is an easy and compact place in which to travel and its spectacularly dramatic landscape alone, famous for its setting for the 'The Lord of the Rings' film trilogy, makes the long trip to these southern islands more than worthwhile.
New Zealand Travel Guide

Need To Know

Money:
Local currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), divided into 100 cents. Most businesses accept MasterCard and Visa, and while Diners Club and American Express are also widely accepted in the main tourist centres, they might have limited acceptance elsewhere. Travellers cheques and foreign currency can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and some hotels. ATMs can be found in all towns and cities.
Time:
Electricity:
Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Oblique flat blade plugs are standard.
Language:
The official languages in New Zealand are English and Maori.
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:
New Zealand has a reputation as one of the safest destinations in the world, however sensible precautions against petty theft are still advised.
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:
Ranked an unbelievable 3rd in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business rankings, those looking to do business in New Zealand are sure to find that the corporate atmosphere of the country is well-suited to their ambitions. The business culture of New Zealand conforms to a typically British model - being formal, reserved, and conservative. However, New Zealand's corporate culture distinguishes itself from the metropole with its characteristically Antipodean warmth and friendliness, creating a relaxed, yet professional atmosphere, in which rewarding personal relationships may be developed among associates.The general approach to management in New Zealand is hierarchical, with decisions being made by senior-level executives - though ideas, input and collaboration, from all members of the organisation, are also highly valued in the New Zealand workplace. Business etiquette in New Zealand will be familiar to those who've worked in western corporate environments before. Use titles, until instructed not to do so, and maintain eye contact when speaking to your associates. New Zealand businessmen tend to favour forthrightness, honesty and hard work over self-aggrandisement and empty promises - they will be far more interested in what you actuallydo, than what you merely sayyou can do.Business meetings should be scheduled at least a week in advance, and then confirmed a few days before they are due to take place. When raising an idea or responding to someone else's, present your point directly, and back it up with facts and figures - while a relaxed, human-orientated atmosphere is prized in the New Zealand workplace, business decisions remain unemotional, and motivated by the business' best interests. The dress code for business in New Zealand is difficult to pin down, though you should always appear well-groomed and presentable. For a first meeting, men should stick to a dark suit, worn with a tie; and women, should wear a smart dress/business suit/pants suit, and limited accessories. The official language of business in New Zealand is English, and business hours are generally from 8.30am (or 9am) to 5pm, Monday to Friday; and 9am to 12.30pm on Saturdays.
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). Prescription medications need to be accompanied by a doctor's letter and the original prescription, they should not amount to more than three months worth of the medication. Food, plants, animals (alive or dead), equipment used with animals, biological specimens and equipment such as used camping gear, used bicycles and golf clubs all need to be declared in the Customs Biosecurity/Quarantine section.
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.
New Zealand Travel Guide

New Zealand Attractions

Auckland Museum
Description:
Situated on The Domain, an extensive central city parkland on one of Auckland's extinct volcanic hills, the Auckland Museum overlooks the city and the attractive Waitemata Harbour. It is one of the most visited attractions in the city, housing a remarkable collection of Maori and Pacific Island artefacts and cultural displays. Originally built as a World War I Memorial in 1929, the building was dedicated to the memory of New Zealand victims in both World War I and II. The 'New Zealand at War' exhibition has since been joined by extensive displays about the people and the country, its cultures, art and natural history. There is a Children's Discovery Centre on the middle floor. For many, a highlight of a visit to the museum, is the three times daily Maori cultural performance of song and dance, providing an entertaining insight into Maori mythology and history.
Address:
Domain Drive, The Domain, Parnell
Postcode:
Telephone:
+64 (0)9 309 0443 or +64 (0)9 306 7067
Email:
info@aucklandmuseum.com
Website:
www.aucklandmuseum.com

Hauraki Gulf Islands
Description:
The Hauraki Gulf is studded with numerous islands such as Rangitoto, Waiheke and Great Barrier Island and those close to the mainland make a good day trip. Some are recreation retreats, and others are conservation islands with restricted access, reserves for the protection of rare bird, animal and plant life. Waiheke is the most popular of the gulf islands, with picturesque bays and white sandy beaches, rolling farmlands and hills cloaked with vineyards and fine wineries. The town enjoys the slow and relaxed pace of island life, along with chic little restaurants and cafes, and is home to many art galleries and craft shops.The nearest island to the city is the uninhabited Rangitoto, a large volcanic cone with an unusual landscape of black distorted lava shapes that governs the view over the harbour. It is possible to hike up to the crater rim and explore the lava caves on the slopes. Each island has a different character with different things to do, whether it is to explore natural geological features or to enjoy the isolation, relax on white beaches or wander about the galleries and cafes. Some visitors prefer simply to sail around the islands on a yacht or ferry cruise and enjoy the scenery from on board.
Address:
Postcode:
Telephone:
+64 (09) 379 6476 (Department of Conservation, Auckland visitors centre), For Waiheke Island Visitor Information Office, phone +64 (09) 372 9919
Email:
Website:
www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/auckland/introduction/hauraki/default.asp

Auckland Sky Tower
Description:
At 1,076 feet (328m), Auckland's Sky Tower is the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere and has unforgettable views over the city, the harbour and the gulf islands. It is part of the Sky City Entertainment Complex, with a casino, theatre, hotel and conference centre. Visitors to the tower can splash out on dinner in the revolving restaurant, or admire the view from one of the four circular observation decks, reached by a glass lift. There is an outdoor deck, glass floor panels, an audio visual guide and touch computer screens providing geographical information. The Sky Deck is the highest viewing level with spectacular 360-degree views.
Address:
Sky City Complex, Victoria and Federal Streets
Postcode:
Telephone:
+64 (0)9 363 6000 or 0800 SKYCITY (0800 759 2489) (Free within New Zealand).
Email:
skytower@skycity.co.nz
Website:
www.skycityauckland.co.nz

Bay of Islands
Description:
The Bay of Islands is famous for its beautiful coastal scenery and is one of North Island's major attractions. The bay is interspersed with numerous little coves, inlets and sandy beaches, and the historical townships of Paihia, Waitangi and Russell are the central hubs of the area, from where an unbelievable array of activities and tours can be arranged. Sailing and boat cruises around the islands are the main attraction, but the natural surroundings and warm waters of the bay make it an ideal place for kayaking, swimming, diving and fishing. The bay is also of historical significance as the place where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed between the European settlers and Maori chiefs in 1840.
Address:
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Website:
www.bay-of-islands.co.nz

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Reserve
Description:
Wai-O-Tapu, meaning 'Sacred Waters', is a diverse and colourful geothermal sightseeing experience. The area has been active for more than 100,000 years and features thick pools of boiling mud that bubble and belch, geysers, sulphuric mineral terraces and steaming pools that create a kaleidoscope of colour. Walkways around the area allow visitors to admire the display of some of the most incredible earth forces in the world. Some of the best features include the spectacular Champagne Pool, a large steaming and bubbling pool fringed by red and yellow ochre deposits; the evil looking Devil's Bath, with a high concentration of arsenic creating the vivid green colour of the water; and the erupting Lady Knox Geyser that shoots steam up to 64 feet (20m) into the air in a majestic daily display at around 10:15am.
Address:
The site is 17 miles (27km) south of Rotorua on SH5 (Rotorua Taupo Highway); 201 Waiotapu Loop Road
Postcode:
Telephone:
+64 (0)7 366 6333
Email:
info@waiotapu.co.nz
Website:
www.waiotapu.co.nz

Te Papa Museum
Description:
Wellington's leading attraction and one of the world's largest national museums, Te Papa is a tribute to all that is New Zealand; its people and history, natural environment, arts and culture. Interactive technology and superb displays bring the story to life. Motion simulators allow visitors to witness the explosive creation of pre-historic New Zealand, or to experience a virtual reality bungee jump. There is also an interactive section on volcanoes and earthquakes where the effects of an earthquake can be felt from inside a house and a volcanic eruption viewed on screen. Other attractions include a range of magnificent exhibitions featuring some of the country's most important Maori treasures, a modern 'marae' or Maori meeting house, and an informative display on the Treaty of Waitangi, between the Maori chiefs and European settlers in 1840. The natural world is also explored, featuring all the natural inhabitants of the country.
Address:
Cable Street, Waterfront
Postcode:
Telephone:
+64 (0)4 381 7000
Email:
mail@tepapa.govt.nz
Website:
www.tepapa.govt.nz

Wellington Cable Car
Description:
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Wellington, the cable car takes people to the lookout at Kelburn, where there is a beautiful view over the city and across the harbour. Visitors can either take a return journey or walk back down through the beautifully landscaped Botanic Gardens. At the top terminus there is the small Cable Car Museum explaining its history.
Address:
Cable Car Lane, 280 Lambton Quay
Postcode:
Telephone:
+64 (0)4 472 2199
Email:
info@wellingtoncablecar.co.nz
Website:
www.wellingtoncablecar.co.nz

Cathedral Square
Description:
Cathedral Square is the hub of the city centre and is dominated by the city's landmark, Christchurch Cathedral, a grand Gothic structure with a tall spire, and a cool and spacious interior with marvellous acoustics. It is possible to climb the narrow staircase to the bell tower for a splendid panoramic view of the city. In front of the cathedral, the city's most quirky character, fondly known as 'The Wizard', performs his daily eccentric routine for the crowd from atop a ladder, ranting about all things from politics and politicians to religion, love and bureaucracy. Nearby the giant chessboard painted on the square attracts avid players and spectators, with enormous pieces to be shifted during strategic moves, as challengers pit their skills against one another. The cathedral was severely damaged in the 2011 eaerthquake and is currently closed for repairs.
Address:
Postcode:
Telephone:
+64 (0)3 366 0046
Email:
Website:
www.christchurchcathedral.co.nz

Christchurch Tramway
Description:
Trams were part of the city's transport system until 1954 and today these heritage trams have been beautifully restored, offering visitors a unique experience that takes one on a two-mile (3km) loop of many of the city's best features and main attractions. The drivers, who offer insight on the history, architecture, activities and points of interest, supply informative and entertaining commentary. Visitors can hop on and off at any of the stops to further explore the attractions at leisure. The most interesting sights include Cathedral Square, the Aquarium of Discovery, punting on the Avon River, the exquisite Botanic Gardens on the banks of the river, New Regent Street with its pretty Spanish mission-style architecture, the magnificent Gothic buildings of the Arts Centre, and Canterbury Museum, with an excellent Antarctic exhibition. The Chrustchurch Tramway was damaged in the 2011 earthquake and is currently closed for repairs.
Address:
Postcode:
Telephone:
+64 (0)3 366 7830
Email:
enquiries@tram.co.nz
Website:
www.tram.co.nz

Christchurch Gondola
Description:
The spectacular ride takes visitors to the top of the crater rim of Christchurch's extinct volcano on the outskirts of the city, unfolding magnificent views of the city, over the Canterbury Plains and towards the Southern Alps, and the sweep of Pegasus Bay and Lyttelton Harbour, as it rises to 1,460ft (445m) above sea level. At the summit the Gondola Complex features the Time Tunnel Heritage Show with a walk-through exhibition and video relaying the history and geological evolution of the Canterbury region as well as Maori mythology. From the summit it is possible to walk back down through the Port Hills to Sumner Beach. The Gondola was damaged in the 2011 earthquake and is currently closed for repairs.
Address:
Gondola Base Station, Heathcote Valley
Postcode:
Telephone:
+64 (0)3 384 0310
Email:
GONDOLA@WELCOMEABOARD.CO.NZ
Website:
www.gondola.co.nz

Mount Cook National Park
Description:
Mount Cook National Park is known for its exquisite alpine beauty and is home to the highest mountain in New Zealand, Mount Cook. Its Maori name, 'Aoraki' means 'cloud piercer' and at 12,016 feet (3,755m) it towers above the surrounding snow-covered peaks in the park. A third of the park is covered in permanent ice and snow and the mighty Tasman Glacier is the longest glacier outside of the polar regions. Glacial melt gives the lakes their beautiful milky, turquoise colour and there are many walks in the area to take in the dramatic beauty. Mount Cook has always been the focus of climbing and mountaineering, most notably the expeditions of Sir Edmund Hillary, who went on to be the first man to reach the summit of the world's highest mountain, Mount Everest.
Address:
Postcode:
Telephone:
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre: +64 (0)3 435 1186
Email:
laketekapo@mtcook.org.nz
Website:
www.mtcook.org.nz

Skyline Gondola
Description:
The Queenstown Gondola takes visitors up to Bob's Peak above the town, and has incredible views over Queenstown, the lake and of the Remarkables Range. At the top of the gondola is the Luge offering three-wheel cart rides for all different ages and abilities, or there are numerous walks on the mountain with beautiful views of the area. At the bottom terminal is the Kiwi and Birdlife Park featuring nocturnal kiwi houses and other endangered species of New Zealand.
Address:
Brecon Street
Postcode:
Telephone:
+64 (0)3 441 0101
Email:
gondala@skyline.co.nz
Website:
www.skyline.co.nz

Arrowtown
Description:
Arrowtown sits at the edge of the Otago Goldfields and was one of New Zealand's biggest gold towns in its day. It still has reminders of the gold rush days with little miners' cottages along the tree lined streets, historic wooden buildings, and 19th century-style shops, preserved as they were during the gold rush. There are the interesting remains of a Chinese settlement, with interpretive signs, nestled along the banks of Bush Creek where gold was panned. The Chinese diggers often worked through the remains of previous miner's claims in search of undetected fine gold and were subjected to much prejudice by the other diggers. The Visitors Centre contains the excellent Lake District Museum that has a small display on local history and gold mining.
Address:
Postcode:
Telephone:
Email:
info@arrowtown.com
Website:
www.arrowtown.org.nz

The Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers
Description:
Nowhere else in the world, outside the polar regions, can one see glaciers so close to the sea, extending more than eight miles (13km) from the highest peaks of precipitous mountains to the valley floor and surrounded by rainforest. The Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers are the two most famous glaciers, a small part of the Westland National Park, and the two small townships near to each are good bases from which to explore the area, although offering an expensive range of accommodation and cafes. They each have a good Visitors Centre with displays on the formation of the glaciers, the ice movement and the history of the region. The giant screen at Franz Josef shows the brilliant film on Glacier Country, 'Flowing West'. The glaciers are moving at an average rate of three feet (1m) a day, but the Frans Josef can move up to an incredible 16 feet (5m) in one day. A wide range of companies offer guided trips to explore the spectacular ice formations, taking visitors beyond the looming terminal face of the glacier and up onto the mighty rivers of ice, through the carved passageways and channels. There are scenic flights among New Zealand's highest peaks and over the glaciers with snow landings, a great way to appreciate the magnitude and splendour of the area and guided heli-hike excursions, a chance to combine a flight with ice walking.
Address:
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Website:
www.glaciercountry.co.nz

Milford Sound
Description:
The 14-mile (22km) long fjord of Milford Sound is the most famous attraction in the Fjordland National Park. Hemmed in by towering granite cliffs and dominated by Mitre Peak, the calm deep waters reflect ice-covered mountain tops, waterfalls plummet from the cliff tops to the water below and Bottlenose dolphins play in the foaming wakes of the boats. Its grandeur was carved out during the ice ages and a close up or aerial view of the awesome scenery is a must. A variety of boat cruises or popular kayaking trips are offered and these provide opportunities to see the fur seals, crested penguins and dolphins that inhabit the sound, while scenic flights give a unique perspective on the area.The road to Milford Sound is one of the finest alpine drives in the world with many points of interest along the way and view points to admire the sheer scale of the dramatic landscape. Travelling towards the Sound, the road approaches a seemingly impenetrable wall of rock, and the tiny entrance of Homer Tunnel, unlit and roughly hewn out of the cliff face, suddenly appears as the way through, emerging again at the top of the stunning Cleddau Canyon before dropping into the valley below. Milford is synonymous with rain, and although the mountaintops might not be visible through the clouds, the streams of water and waterfalls coursing down the sheer rocky cliffs is a magnificent sight not otherwise seen in dry weather. Tiny biting sandflies are the menace of the Fjordlands, although optimists say the rain tends to keep them away. Whether raining or fine it is impossible to ignore the powerful sense of beauty and grandeur that the landscape evokes.
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Akaroa
Description:
The hilly Banks Peninsula is the result of two massive and violent volcanic eruptions, creating a sea-filled crater surrounded by green hills and a number of little bays that radiate out from the circular shape of land. The Maori name Akaroameans 'long harbour' and the little French-influenced town of the same name is situated on the picturesque shores of the harbour, a long finger of water extending into the interior of the land. It is Canterbury's oldest village and its French character, due to the first European settlers, is evident in the street names, quaint historical architecture and French inspired cuisine. The pretty town is surrounded by attractive scenery; a volcanic landscape of fertile green hills scattered with woolly sheep and vineyards, and crisscrossed by walking trails and winding narrow roads. The calm waters of the harbour are perfect for water sports and boat cruises, with an opportunity to swim with dolphins.
Address:
Postcode:
Telephone:
+64 (0)3 304 8600
Email:
info@akaroa.com
Website:
www.akaroa.com

Lake Wanaka
Description:
Voted as one of the world's top 10 most romantic destinations, Lake Wanaka is a picture-perfect alpine lake located in the Otago region of the South Island. It is New Zealand's fourth-largest lake and certainly one of its most beautiful. The lake is popular for boating, fishing and swimming and the temperate climate ensures that this is a year-round destination. The nearby Harris Mountains provide ample opportunity for skiing in winter as well.
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Taranaki
Description:
Located between Wellington and Auckland, Taranaki has for a long time been largely overlooked by tourists in New Zealand. It is only recently that visitors have discovered the charms of the westernmost province in New Zealand, with its lush gardens, rolling hills of dairy farms, scenic parks, and world-class surf spots. The biggest city in Taranaki is New Plymouth, a busy port on the Tasman Sea rated by the United Nations as one of the best small cities in the world.
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Website:
www.taranaki.co.nz

Great Barrier Island
Description:
Situated 62 miles (100km) off the coast of northeast New Zealand, Great Barrier Island is a paradise of unspoiled wilderness and beautiful vistas found nowhere else in the world. While mining and logging were once thriving industries, the bulk of the island has been given over to nature reserves, and the local ecosystem has thrived. Birdwatchers will be particularly thrilled to see rare creatures like Brown Teal Ducks, Black Petrel seabirds, and North Island Kaka Parrots. The real attraction of Great Barrier Island lies in the multitude of outdoor activities however, including scuba diving, sailing, kayaking, surfing, fishing, hiking, quad biking, mountain biking and golf. The population of Great Barrier Island is only around 850, but there are still some good restaurants and lodges for visitors to enjoy.
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Hamilton
Description:
Hamilton is a pretty town 80 miles (128km) south of Auckland. It's proximity to the bigger city means it is often overlooked by tourists in New Zealand, however as an excursion from Auckland, Hamilton has some worthwhile sights to offer. There are several hot springs around Hamilton, and the city is full of gardens, parks and river walks. Not far out of Hamilton is Matamata, home to the Hobbiton Movie Set, the 'Hobbit village' created for The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. Guided 'film and farm' tours are offered for fans of the movies.
Address:
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Website:
www.hobbitontours.com

Holiday Types

Services

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