For those travelling to New Zealand for the Rugby World Cup from an overseas destination, the information below has been prepared to make your trip easier and to make the most of your time in New Zealand

Travel Visas

Most visitors entering New Zealand will require travel visas for their period of travel. For more information check immigration New Zealand.

Passports
Visitors to New Zealand must have a current passport,  this passport needs to be valid for at least three months after the intended date of departure from New Zealand.

Language

New Zealand’s official language is English; however the Maori language Te Reo is practised in some places throughout New Zealand. There are translator services available in the major cities.

Culture

New Zealand is a melting pot of different cultures and races. Racial tolerance is expected by all visitors to New Zealand. The amazing diversity amongst New Zealanders is a real feature of experiencing New Zealand life as is reflected in the food, drink and cultural activities available. New Zealanders generally work 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday, so use this as a guideline for when shops and services may operate.

Currency, Banking and Credit Cards

New Zealand’s currency consists of dollars based in $5, $10, $20, $50, $100 notes and 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, $2 coins.Travellers Cheques and major Credit Cards are accepted (Visa, Mastercard, Diners Club and American Express). Banking is available Monday – Friday (Saturdays in major cities) 9.00am to 4.30pm. You can exchange currency immediately at International Airport terminals.

For the latest currency conversion rates please visit: http://www.xe.com/

Driving

New Zealand drives on the left hand side of the road. Rental companies will ask for an International Driver’s Licence. The quality of the roads varies throughout the country ranging from 6 lane motorways to single lane gravel roads, so a driver needs to be prepared for variable driving conditions.

Medical and Emergency Services
In an emergency situation in New Zealand dial 111. This number connects you with services for Police, Ambulance or Fire. It is highly recommended that visitors purchase health insurance before their trip.

Goods and Services Tax or GST
All goods and services (except certain financial transactions) in New Zealand are subject to a government 12.5% Goods and Services Tax, commonly known as GST. Overseas visitors cannot claim back GST, however some stores sell goods to overseas visitors exclusive of GST provided you show proof of onward travel arrangements (i.e. departure ticket). It is possible to purchase duty free and GST exempt goods upon arrival at all international airports in New Zealand.

Safety
New Zealand is one of the safest travel destinations in the world, with a relatively low crime rate, few endemic diseases and a first-class heathcare. However common sense prevails in situations to protect yourself against opportunistic thieves and keep yourself out dangerous situations as you would in your home country.

Time
New Zealand Standard Time is 12 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time. Observe local New Zealand time as soon as you land in New Zealand.

Electricity
Electricity is supplied at 230 volts, 50 hertz. Hotels and motels provide 110 volt 20 watt sockets for electric razors only. Most power sockets in New Zealand accept three-pin plugs or similar international adapters.

Tipping
Employees in New Zealand do not depend or expect tips as part of their income but recognition for good service is always appreciated.

Water
All New Zealand cities and towns have excellent, fresh water to drink safely out of a tap (faucet). Bottled water is also available readily in shops.

Internet Connectivity
Major hotels and motels have an internet connection available at cost, Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch have pockets of wi-fi networks available in the cities. There are many internet cafes if these can’t be found.