Active New Zealand Southern Discovery

There aren't many places on this planet where travellers are so well catered for – in terms of both man-made enticements and splendours of the natural realm. New Zealand is bigger than the UK, with one-fourteenth the population size. Filling in the gaps are sublime forests, majestic mountains, and the stunning lakes, beaches and fjords that have made this country one of the best hiking (locals call it 'tramping') destinations on Earth. It’s renowned worldwide for having a relaxed, friendly, spacious and outdoor adventure lifestyle (think sport, walks, BBQs, and beaches). When you combine this adventurous outlook with a stunning backdrop you start to see why travellers rate New Zealand as the action/adventure/adrenalin capital of the world!

Currency 

Local currency: New Zealand Dollar 
Symbol: NZ$ 
ISO code: NZD 
Subunit: Cent 
Banknotes: NZ$5, NZ$10, NZ$20, NZ$50, NZ$100 
Coins: 10c, 20c, 50c, NZ$1, NZ$2 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: No 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: No 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 

Main airlines: Air New Zealand, Jetstar Airways 
International Airports: Auckland Airport, Christchurch Airport, Wellington Airport 
Domestic Airports: Queenstown Airport, Dunedin Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: No 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: Yes 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

New Zealand cuisine is diverse, influenced by indigenous Maori culture and European settlers. Highlights include lamb, seafood, and dairy products like cheese. Maori hangi, a traditional feast cooked in an underground oven, is a must-try. Notable local drinks include New Zealand wine, particularly Sauvignon Blanc, and craft beers. 

Tipping: 10-15% 

Annual rainfall: Varies by region 
Average temperature: 10-20°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 20-30°C 
Average lows: 10-15°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 10-15°C 
Average lows: 0-10°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit New Zealand is during the summer months (December to February) when the weather is warm and outdoor activities are in full swing. 

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes