Population: the area of New Zealand is roughly the size of Colorado or Great Britain and the population is 4.2 million, this makes it very uncrowded, and with its temperate climate, an ideal year-round holiday destination.

Airlines: international airports, Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown, Dunedin. Domestic airports
make every part of the country accessible, from Kaitaia Airport in the far north to Invercargill in the far south
and Ryan’s Creek Aerodrome on Stewart Island. . . NZ Airline . . NZ Customs

Passports: all overseas visitors require a passport valid for at least three months beyond the intended date
of departure from New Zealand. . . NZ Embassy

Climate: seasons are opposite to that of the Northern Hemisphere. The top of the North Island is sub-tropical
and the bottom of the South Island is temperate. Overall, however, the climate is very mild.

Summer average max temps range between 20-30C / 68-86F, winter 10-15C / 50-60F.
The warmest months are Jan, Feb and the coolest June, July. . Weather

Temperature range is not extreme, however weather can change unexpectedly, for this reason you should be
prepared for sudden changes in weather, especially if you're doing outdoor activities. With over 2000 hours
of sunshine per year and very little air pollution, the UV rays are strong during summer. Sunscreen, hats,
sunglasses, long-sleeved shirts are highly recommended when you are in the sunlight.

Annual rainfall on average is between 650mm / 26inches and 1500mm / 60 inches. As well as producing
areas of stunning native forest, this high rainfall makes an ideal place for farming and horticulture.

Culture: many different lifestyles, European, Maori, Pacific Island and Asian influences.

Currency: New Zealand dollar (NZ$). All major international credit cards are accepted in New Zealand. ATM
machines / automatic teller machines, located throughout all areas.

Tax: All goods and services are subject to a 12.5% GST due to be increased to 15% as of 1st Oct 2010.

Tipping: normally New Zealanders do not expect tips for service. Tipping for extra special service is at the
visitor's discretion.

Internet access: almost every small town has Internet access at cybercafes, libraries etc. For Internet connection service while travelling around in New Zealand contact Earthlight: . Internet

Laptops: you will need a RJ45 type plug to be able to connect your laptop into a computer socket in
New Zealand, and an adaptor with a flat two or three-point power plug to connect to the power supply.
USB modems available to rent for laptop users: . Mobile Modem Hire

Electric current: 230/240 volts, 50 hertz. Slanted 3 pin plugs used.

Train service: .Tranz Scenic

Ferry service: if the weather is bad ferry cancellations can occur. When crossing from North to South Island
- suggestion: turn your rental car in and rent another on the South Island. . Ferry

Car hire: all major car rental companies available at every airport. . Car Rental

Driving licence: if you have a current driver's licence from your home country, or an International Driving
Permit, you can legally drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months. Legal age to rent a vehicle is 25 years
If your licence is not in English, you should bring an English translation with you.

Road Safety

• In New Zealand, all motorists drive on the left-hand side of the road. . Road Code

• When turning left, give way to traffic crossing or approaching from your right.

• When the traffic light is red, you must stop. There is no left turn rule as in North America.

• The speed limit on the open road is 100km/h (60m/h). In built up areas the speed limit is 50km/h.

• Drivers and passengers must wear seat belts at all times.

Women Travelling in New Zealand . . . .. NZ Statistics . .. .. NZ Government . . . .. Gay Travel New Zealand