New Zealand travel Tips
Travelling in New Zealand is straightforward and generally hassle-free with many modes of transport available at affordable prices. Car crime can be a problem in the larger cities, particularly Auckland, but levels of violent crime are low and the New Zealand people (Kiwis) are very welcoming. Here are some basic tips and comments regarding what to be aware of.
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Most things will seem fairly cheap by European and North American standards and the quality of goods and standards of service you can expect are high; tipping is not expected but is getting more popular.
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November to April are the warmer months, with December and January the busiest and most hectic periods when accommodation and transport are harder to find. Ski resorts are open in the winter months.
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Illegal drugs of any kind are not tolerated in New Zealand and the penalties for possession or trafficking can be severe.
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For a country of four million inhabitants, the infrastructure is on par with other Western countries, with quality highways and well laid out cities. Rural roads are often unsealed, however, and care should be taken when negotiating these.
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Roads are relatively uncongested between major cities and driving is a generally safe and gratifying experience in New Zealand.
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There are no exceptional health risks in New Zealand apart from bouts of Legionnaires’ disease reported in the South Island. Be careful when trekking in mountainous areas, particularly out of season, as avalanches are common.
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Budget, jump-on/jump-off bus companies are popular for the independent traveller in New Zealand and are a great way of travelling the country and meeting like-minded people. Train travel is less common and more expensive, while air travel is less popular.
Useful travel tips resources
Footprint Guides - New Zealand
Well-known travel website with practical travel information and advice on travel throughout New Zealand.
http://www.footprintguides.com/
AA Guides
Comprehensive online New Zealand travel and vacation planning information.
http://www.aaguides.co.nz
NZ Your Way
A unique travel guide where you can create your own custom travel itinerary for travelling in New Zealand.
http://www.nzyourway.com
More topics on this site…
New Zealand travel information
New Zealand health and safety
New Zealand maps and geography
Essentials
Visas: Automatic visas, usually valid for three months, are granted to most nationals
Season: November – April
Money: NZ$ – ATMs widely available
Language: English, Maori
Emergency #: 111