One of the world's least
crowded countries, New Zealand has a population of little more than four million.
Comparable in size to Japan, Colorado or Great Britain, New Zealand has a temperate
climate with relatively small seasonal variation, making it an ideal year-round holiday
destination.
Upon arrival in New Zealand, a New Zealand Passenger Arrival Card must be completed. All
visitors to New Zealand must carry a passport that is valid for at least three months
after the intended departure date from New Zealand. Most visitors to New Zealand do not
require visas. However, if you want to stay longer than three months or your country of
origin does not have a visa waiver agreement with New Zealand, then you will need to apply
for a Visitor's Visa.
You can legally drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months if you either have a current
driver's licence from your home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP). Visitors
to New Zealand must carry their licence or permit at all times when driving. You can only
drive the same type of vehicle you are licensed to drive in your home country.
New Zealanders drive on the left-hand side of the road. Drivers give way (or yield) to all
traffic crossing or approaching to the right. The open road speed limit is 100km/h.
Signposting follows standard international symbols and all distances are in kilometres
(km). Drinking and driving laws are strictly enforced with random breath testing at
anytime.
Electricity is supplied in New Zealand at 230/240 volts (50 hertz), with three-pin plugs
or similar adapters. Most hotels and motels provide 110 volt AC sockets (rated at 20
watts) for electric razors only. For all other electric equipment an adaptor or converter
is necessary. Tap (faucet) water is fresh and safe to drink in New Zealand. Water from
rivers and lakes should be boiled, chemically treated or filtered before drinking.
New Zealand uses 'daylight saving' in summer, with clocks put forward one hour to GMT+13.
Daylight saving begins on the first Sunday in October and ends on the third Sunday of the
following March, when clocks are put back to GMT+12.
|
