Essential info for New Zealand

Time: New Zealand’s local time is GMT +12, changing to GMT +13 on the last Sunday in October to the last Sunday in March).
 

Electricity: 230 volts, 50Hz. Oblique flat blade plugs are used.

Language: Both English and Maori are the official languages.

Safety Information: New Zealand is one of the safest destinations in the world, although a growing gang and drug problem has seen crimes against property increase slightly.

Local Customs: Expats coming to New Zealand should expect quarantine procedures and strict bio-security regulations at immigration points. Note that is strictly illegal to import most foodstuffs, and even golf clubs and shoes (which may have soil and dirt attached), and items made from animal skin are difficult to bring into the country. See the immigration arrivals card which has full details. Tipping is not expected in New Zealand; service charges are not added to bills, but will always be welcome if offered.

Business: The business culture in New Zealand is formal and conservative. Punctuality is important, and business attire is typically formal which means a suit is always a safe bet. It is normal for meetings to begin and end with a handshake; business cards should be exchanged.  Business hours and office hours run from 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Communications: The international access code for New Zealand is +64. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0061 for Australia). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)9 for Auckland and (0)4 for the Wellington region. Vodafone offers GSM 900 coverage in and around the main cities and popular holiday areas. Internet cafes are widely available.

Useful Contacts: Tourism New Zealand, Wellington: +64 (0)4 917 5400 or www.newzealand.com/travel

Emergency numbers: 111