Circuits and trips to New Zealand
Programs at New Zealand
Useful information for traveling to New Zealand
Documentation
To travel to New Zealand for stays of a maximum of 6 months, a valid passport is required, valid for at least 6 months from the date of return and the processing of an entry visa.
Language
Until 1987, English was the only official language of New Zealand, today it remains the predominant language in most regions; Maori became an official language under the Maori Language Act in 1987.
Religion
Christianity is the predominant religion in New Zealand with almost 60% of believers, 36% have no religion and the remaining 4% have other religions.
Traditions
New Zealanders are very hospitable and are known for being lovers of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, surfing and anything that allows them to interact with nature.
Climate
The climate in New Zealand is quite temperate for being a small island. In the north of the island there is a subtropical climate during the summer and in the alpine mountain range of the South Island the temperature drops below 10 degrees.
Health
No vaccination is required for travelers from Europe.
Currency
The official currency of New Zealand is the New Zealand dollar, which is divided into 100 cents, and is often colloquially called “Kiwi”. Currently there are coins minted of 10, 20 and 50 cents and 1 and 2 dollars; and bills of 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 dollars. It is easy to change euros to New Zealand dollars at banks, airports or specialized exchange offices.
Payment methods
Debit or credit cards can be used to pay in hotels, restaurants, stores, supermarkets, etc. There are times when credit and debit cards will not be accepted, for example on motorways.
Electricity
The common voltage is 230 V. The plugs and sockets are type I. It is advisable to carry a travel adapter.
Means of transport
In New Zealand there are the main means of transport: train, bus, etc.
Hour
The time zone of New Zealand is GMT+12:00.
Gastronomy
It is based on the British cuisine that the colonists imported, mixed with elements of the native Maori culture. Being an island country, fish has an important weight in the gastronomy with dishes such as fish and chips, salmon and shellfish such as oysters, abalone, mussels and tuatua (a local mollusk). The most typical meats are beef, lamb and venison. New Zealand is internationally famous for its kiwis, this fruit originally from China was imported in the middle of the last century by Zespri, the main company, and today they are exported to markets around the world. Another famous food in New Zealand cuisine is the Pavlova cake, considered a national dessert.
Helpful tips
If you visit the country by car or motorhome, whenever you find a gas station you must refuel since it can be a long distance to the next gas station. And the same goes for gray and black water. You have to download the maps in advance because in New Zealand there are many areas without coverage.