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> Goods and Services Tax
> Electricity
> Departure & Airport Tax
> Driving in New Zealand
> Tipping
> What to Pack
> Accommodation
> Climate
> 2008 Public Holidays

New Zealand is one of the most beautiful places on earth with natural beauty difficult to believe. James A. Michener wrote these words in "Return to Paradise" in 1951 and indeed many people are drawn to the Land of the Long White Cloud by her scenic splendor. New Zealand, the real New Zealand, is much more than glistening peaks, serene lakes and boiling mud; it is a people, a culture, a way of life. The unique blend of Maori, Pacific Islander, Pakeha (European Descendant) and other nationalities gives a heritage that is rich and varied. It is about the length of the Mississippi River and the width of California.

Passport and Visas

All visitors to New Zealand require a passport valid for at least three months after the planned date of departure. Check with your travel agent for visa requirements.

Currency

The unit of currency is the New Zealand Dollar.

Credit Cards and Traveler's Checks

All major credit cards may be used and NZD travelers’ checks are accepted at hotels, banks and some stores. Banks are open Monday to Friday from 9:30am to 4:30pm.

Goods and Services Tax

All goods and services purchased in New Zealand are subject to a 12-1/2 percent Goods and Services Tax (GST), which is usually included in the displayed price. Visitors cannot claim refunds on this tax although, when a supplier agrees to export a major item to a visitor’s home address, GST is not charged on either the goods or the freight.

Electricity

The electricity current in New Zealand is 230–240 volts. Electrical appliances will require a round-pin, two-pronged plug adapter. Check your appliances to see if there is a 100–240v switch. If not, you will need a voltage converter. Universal outlets for 240 or 110v shavers are usually found in leading stores.

Departure and Airport Taxes

An Airport User Fee is payable by all travelers departing via the airports of Auckland, Dunedin, Wellington, Christchurch, Hamilton, Queenstown and Palmerston North.

Driving in New Zealand

A current international driver’s license or a license of the country of origin is acceptable. Minimum hiring age is 21 years. Remember, we drive on the left hand side.

Tipping

New Zealanders do not depend on tips or gratuities for their income and tips are not expected for normal service, even in restaurants and pubs. However, tipping in appreciation for extra-special service is at your discretion. Service charges are not normally added to hotel or restaurant bills.

What to Pack?

Dress is informal and relaxed on most occasions. Smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants and nightspots. Men are generally not expected to wear suits and ties, except in a few of the top formal bars and restaurants in major cities.

In summer a light jacket or sweater should be included in your luggage should the weather turn cooler or you visit the high country. You can expect some rain, so include a light waterproof jacket or coat. Pack warm winter clothing if visiting between May and September.

Accommodation

To assist you with the selection of your accommodation, Qantas Vacations has devised its own rating system enabling you to compare each property. Ratings are provided solely for the guidance of our customers and have no equivalent in any other rating system. Properties are assigned a half rating if they are a little extra special in their category. This could be because of location or extra facilities offered. The ratings used apply to the overall quality of the property. Within selected properties, some room categories may vary from the overall property rating.

3 Star: A moderate level of accommodation, offering a reasonable range of room amenities and hotel service. Furnished to a comfortable standard, there is an emphasis on quality and comfort.

4 Star: Properties in this category offer a superior standard of accommodation with well-appointed bedrooms and public areas. They offer a wide range of facilities enhanced by a high standard of service.

5 Star: Deluxe establishments providing the highest international standards of accommodation and cuisine. With an excellent range of facilities and outstanding service, properties in this category are considered the best available in the country.

Check-in/Check-out Times: In most cases check-in time is 12 noon and check-out time is 11:00am. Run of House: Unless otherwise stated, all prices are based on “run of house” rooms. This policy entitles the hotel to allocate any room type available to guests.

Climate

The North of New Zealand is sub-tropical. The South may be cooler — snow can be experienced in Winter. If you are traveling in the mountains, be sure to pack layered clothing and a jacket.

2008 Public Holidays & Events

Please note: While we take every care to ensure that this information is correct, we urge you to check with the relevant authorities such as your travel agent or the New Zealand Tourism Board to obtain the latest information prior to departure.