Frequently Asked Questions
Are you ready to step foot in New Zealand? important facts that you need to know: New Zealand is the world’s first sunrise because it is located in the southern hemisphere, and because of Earth’s tilt and its location in orbit in relation to the sun from December 31st, through January 1st, the first fiery rays of brilliant light are first seen from East Cape. Gisborne District of New Zealand’s North Island.
What is New Zealand's official language?
English and Maori.
Do I need a passport or visa to enter New Zealand?
All visitors to New Zealand must carry a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the date you intend to leave the country.
Most visitors who intend to stay for less than three months do not require a visa. 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.
Read our Passports and Visas section carefully, and if you need more information look at the New Zealand Immigration Service Website.
Can I Drive in New Zealand with a Foreign License?
You can use your overseas or international driver’s license for up to 12 months in New Zealand. After a year, you’ll need to apply for a New Zealand driver’s license. Depending on the country you’re from, you’ll have to pass an eyesight test and/or a theory and practical test.
When is the best time to visit New Zealand?
You can visit New Zealand at any time of the year. Summer and winter temperatures vary by only about 10ºC over most of the country, making New Zealand an ideal holiday destination all year round.
New Zealand has four quite distinct seasons – Spring (September – November), Summer (December – February), Autumn/Fall (March – May) and Winter (June – August).
In summer there’s plenty of sunshine, and activities in and around the water include rafting, snorkelling, diving and kayaking.
You’ll find snow on the mountains in winter and excellent skiing. Away from the mountains, New Zealand winters are mild and temperatures generally do not fall below freezing.
What's the Climate like?
New Zealand’s seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere. This means that the warmest months are December, January and February, while the coldest are in June, July and August. Don’t let cold months put you off – winters tend to be short and generally fairly mild.
What is the water temperature?
The water temperature of the sea surrounding New Zealand varies between seasons, and is warmer the further north you go.
In winter, the ocean temperature surrounding the lower South Island drops as low as 8°C, whilst around the upper North Island water temperatures average around 15°C.
In summer the sea temperature around the South Island varies from around 14°C to 18°C. The North Island water temperatures are lovely and warm at around 20-22°C.
Can I Use my Credit cards/ATM cards in New Zealand?
All major international credit cards can be used in New Zealand and Travellers Cheques are accepted at hotels, banks and some stores. If your credit card is encoded with a PIN number you will be able to withdraw cash from automatic teller machines (ATMs) situated at banks and shopping centres throughout the country.
Are there any poisonous animals in New Zealand?
New Zealand has no snakes or dangerous wild animals, making it safe for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities.
Is it safe to drink the water in New Zealand?
New Zealand cities and towns have excellent water supplies and in all cases tap water is fresh and safe to drink. Water from rivers and lakes should be boiled, chemically treated or filtered before drinking to avoid stomach upsets.
What is the voltage of electricity supply in New Zealand? Do I need to take a converter?
Electricity is supplied throughout New Zealand at 230/240 volts (50 hertz), although most hotels and motels provide 110 volt AC sockets (rated at 20 watts) for electric razors only.
For all other equipment, an adapter/converter is necessary, unless the item has a multi-voltage option. Please note that power outlets only accept flat three or two-pin plugs, depending on whether an earth connection is fitted.