New Zealand..land of many contrasts...and home to Middle Earth
From sparkling golden sand beaches in the sub-tropical north to the mountain grandeur of the mighty Southern Alps and the splendour of Fiordland's glaciated vastness.
From the geothermal activity and Maori culture of Rotorua in the central North Island to the adventure outdoor activities and cafe culture of the internationally renowned Queenstown in the South Island.
The scenery in New Zealand is so spectacular that film-makers worldwide have captured some of the beauty in Movies and Television....films such as "Lord of the Rings" and "The Piano" and television series such as "Xena Warrior Princess".
Let our team help you arrange a vacation to include visits to the location sites of " Lord of the Rings", "The Piano" or " Xena Warrior Princess", or simply relax and enjoy the wide diversity this beautiful country has to offer.
The only complaint we regularly receive is "There is just so much to see and do in New Zealand, why didn't you advise us to stay longer!" If your budget permits, we recommend a minimum stay of two to three weeks with stopovers of at least three nights.
Getting around New Zealand is easy. You have a choice of either a national network of bus/coach, rail or air transport which allows you to travel in comfort with expert commentaries along the way, or a rental vehicle, self drive option. In a global sense, the country is small and not heavily populated (4 Million), however travelling distances and times can be deceiving at first glance. We strongly recommend that you view the New Zealand Distance Calculator (on line soon) while working with us to plan your vacation.
USEFUL INFORMATION
National Public Holidays
1/2 January New Year
6 February Waitangi Day
25 April Anzac Day
3 June Queens Birthday
28 October Labour Day
25 December Christmas Day
26 December Boxing Day
Easter dates: vary each year: (2006) Good Friday 14 April
Driving
A full Australian, USA or International Licence is required to hire most vehicles in New Zealand (minimum hiring age is 21 years)
International Departure Tax
International departure tax applies when leaving New Zealand. Please check amount when purchasing your airline tickets.
Currency
New Zealand uses "New Zealand dollars" - find out what a NZ$100 is worth.
Goods & Services Tax (GST)
All goods and services in New Zealand are subject to a Goods & Services Tax (GST) of 12.5%.
Entry Requirements
All visitors require a passport which is valid for at least three months after their planned departure date. Non Australian passport holders can obtain requirements from New Zealand diplomatic or consular offices in their country.
Electricity
Electricity is supplied throughout New Zealand at 230/240 volts, 50 hertz.
Quarantine Regulations
Prior to arrival you will be asked to complete a declaration stating whether you have any foodstuffs, plant or animal materials with you or in your baggage.
Time Differences
NZ Standard time is Greenwich Mean Time + 12 hours. From the first Sunday in October to the third Sunday in March, New Zealand is on daylight saving time of GMT + 13 hours.
IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS
Emergency Services........................................111
International Operator.....................................0170
International Directory Service.........................0172
Local Operator................................................010
NZ Directory Service.......................................018
For further, more in-depth New Zealand information "click" to view the following web sites:
New Zealand Employment Information
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