About New Zealand

These small group of islands is home to over 4 million friendly people, who welcome all visitors. Tourist facilities offer a wide range of accommodations and activities, as well as 100 Visitor Information Centers.

New Zealand has emerald-green pastures, crystal-clear rivers, rainforests, towering peaks, and grinding glaciers. The diverse landscape is 'clean, green, and pristine' with enjoyable driving distances.

Within a day’s easy touring you can take in a scenic flight over the Southern Alps, soak in a thermal spa, jet-boat through white water rapids, bungee jump off a bridge, whale watch, and still have time for a leisurely Kiwi-style meal of crayfish (lobster), succulent mussels and first-class wine. Fresh air, magnificent scenery, outdoor activities, fine food and wine are things that New Zealand has in abundance.

Cycling, hitching and driving hire cars or campervans are easy ways to get around New Zealand. Access for bushwalking, kayaking, tramping, climbing, hunting and saltwater fishing is absolutely free. Fresh water fishing and hunting require permit applications. Permits, wilderness hut passes, local maps and guides can be obtained for a small charge from Conservation offices.

The good news for the visitor is that overall New Zealand has a very mild, equable, maritime climate, which is often wet, overcast and unpredictable, but never extreme in lowland areas. The alpine regions are a different story and temperature variations and weather changes should be monitored closely by trampers and climbers. Please carry several layers of light clothing that can be added or taken off as required, including a light rainproof jacket.

The seasons here are exactly opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. Spring (September-November) is a great time to visit as the country is alive with spring blossoms and frolicking lambs. Summer (December-February) is excellent provided that you have pre-booked accommodation. Temperatures are around 20°- 30° Celsius (68° - 86° Fahrenheit} and Kiwis head to the beach and the bush. Autumn (March-May) is good too as the weather is still pleasantly warm and poplar trees in the South Island are a brilliant golden hue. Winter (June-August) is also great as the ski slopes are humming and you can travel around easily. It is still mild in the north and relatively dry in the south and east.

Currency can be exchanged at foreign exchange kiosks and banks at international airports and banking outlets. Traveler's cheques are accepted at hotels, banks and many stores. All major credit cards can be used in New Zealand. All goods and services in New Zealand are subject to 12.5% Goods and Services tax, which is normally included in the displayed price.