Bio-Security
There are no snakes or dangerous wild animals in New Zealand. We are a nuclear-free country with a strong emphasis on maintaining a clean green environment and preserving our native forests and birds. No vaccination certificates are required for entry to New Zealand, but there are strict controls on bringing in any plant or animal matter which might carry insects or diseases harmful to our crops.
Car Rental
We encourage you to take advantage of corporate rates through Avis Rent a Car. Just call the local Avis office in your country and quote the booking reference number: AWD Z994400.
Climate
The average temperature in Auckland during the winter month of August is 12 degrees centigrade. Rainfall is common and it is recommended that you bring warm clothes and a rain jacket. Mountain ranges in both islands become snow-covered during the winter months, providing beautiful vistas and excellent skiing.
Currency/Banking
The currency used is the New Zealand dollar. Banking hours are usually 0900 -1600hrs, Monday to Friday. There are over 3,500 ATMs (Automatic Teller Machines) in New Zealand, accessible 24 hours. Credit cards with international debit and credit plans can access New Zealand ATM machines and are accepted throughout the country by banks, most hotels and city stores. Travellers' cheques can be issued and cashed at banks and also at bureaux de change, hotels and shops in cities and towns.
Electricity
New Zealand uses a 240 volt 50 cycle system with 3 pin flat plugs.
Goods and Services Tax
Goods and Services in New Zealand are subject to a 15% tax (GST). This tax is usually included in the price and if not, it is clearly stated. This tax cannot be claimed back by visitors when leaving the country.
Insurance
It is strongly recommended that you purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover the duration of your visit to New Zealand and to protect you against cancellation charges, loss or damage to your luggage and personal effects, loss of cash and medical expenses.
Special Requirements
Every effort will be made to ensure delegates with special needs are catered for. Should you require any specific assistance, or catering please give details required on your registration form. New Zealand's public and private medical and hospital facilities provide a high standard of treatment and care, but medical services are not free to visitors from overseas.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected in New Zealand, but you may wish to reward extra special service or kindness.
Transport
The airport is only 40 minutes from the CBD. Taxis are available at all times of the day from the front of the airport terminal. An average fare to the inner city hotels is NZ$60
Travel
Auckland is well served by a number of airlines.
If you are travelling from Europe, you may wish to consider a Star Alliance Round the World fare. The benefits of this are:
- the ability to combine a set number of stopovers for the cost of your ticket
- the use of any one or combination of the Star Alliance partners
- you can build an itinerary that suits, combining places of interest, or business on the way.
Visa and Passport Information
All visitors to New Zealand must have a valid passport for at least three months beyond the intended stay in New Zealand.
Visitors from over 50 countries are waived from the requirement of having a visa for stays of less than three months. If you are a citizen of a country which has a visa waiver agreement with New Zealand, you do not need to apply for a visa to visit New Zealand but you must:
- Hold a valid ticket from New Zealand to a country where you have the right of entry
- Have sufficient money to support yourself during your stay in New Zealand
- Hold a passport valid for 3 months beyond the date you intend leaving New Zealand
- Remain in New Zealand only for the time granted on your arrival
However, if you do require a visa, visa information and the visa application form are available on:
Please allow at least 5-6 weeks for processing.