New Zealand Travel Tips

The warmest months are December, January and February, while the coldest are in June, July and August.  Temperatures are not too extreme in the North Island, however at the bottom of the South Island temperatures can reach below zero during winter.

During summer, a light jacket should be included, with cotton/light trousers for the evenings.  If visiting between May and September warmer clothes are required, including a warm jacket.  While mittens and scarves are not absolutely necessary unless skiing, they can be beneficial.  Layering your clothes can be a good idea to cope with the often changeable weather.

The New Zealand dollar can be bought at all banks.  You will also find many change bureaus in the main cities.

Only the motorways in the main cities have barriers between the oncoming traffic, so it is very important to remember to drive on the left.  The roads in the north island are often twisty and hilly.  Should you find traffic building up behind you, there are often passing lanes and viewing spots suitable for pulling over and allowing traffic to pass.  The South Island is more characterized by long, straight stretches of road.

While generally very safe, it is always advisable to take sensible precautions i.e. lock your car especially at well known scenic spots, keep personal items out of sight/in the boot of your car, take local advice when deciding whether to walk at night.

All visitors must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the intended date of departure.

An Australian citizen with an Australian passport will not need a visa to enter.  Nor will an Australian resident with a return visa.  To ascertain if you are a citizen of a country with visa waiver with New Zealand, see your embassy.

Contact the New Zealand Immigration Service or contact your nearest New Zealand Embassy.