The author James Michener once commented that 'New Zealand is probably one of the most beautiful countries on earth.' The pristine beauty and unique flora and fauna of this island nation continue to draw visitors from all over the world. About the size of California, New Zealand has a population of only 3.6 million people. This is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families with children.

Traffic in New Zealand travels on the left and the cars are equipped with the steering wheel on the right hand side of the vehicle.

To contact Auto Europe from New Zealand, dial 00-800-223-5555-5.

Entry Requirements
U.S. citizens do not require a visa to enter New Zealand for visits of less than three months. All pets brought to New Zealand will be quarantined for a period of 6 months. The quarantine will occur in a country other than New Zealand.

Local Time
New Zealand is 17 hours ahead of Eastern Time in the US and Canada.

Languages
English and Maori are the official national languages of New Zealand.

Electricity
New Zealand operates on 240 volt, 50 Hz electricity. Flat three-pin and two-pin plugs are standard. Many hotels have adaptor sockets for razors only.

Local Tourist Information
New Zealand Tourism Board
Level 16
80 The Terrace
P.O. Box 95
Wellington, New Zealand
Phone: (+64) 4 917 5400
Fax: (+64) 4 915 3817
http://www.tourisminfo.govt.nz
New Zealand Tourism Board
147 Victoria Street
Auckland, New Zealand
Phone: +64 9 914 4780
Fax: +64 914 4789
New Zealand Tourism Board
Unit 5, 35 Sir William Pickering Drive, Burnside
Christchurch, New Zealand
Phone: +64 3 961 4830
Fax: +64 3 961 4835
Auckland Visitor Centre
299 Queen Street
PO Box 7048
Auckland
Phone (+64) 9-366-6888
Fax (+64) 9-358-4684
* Auckland i-SITE Visitor Centre
Atrium, SKYCITY Auckland
Corner Victoria and Federal Streets
* New Zealand i-SITE Visitor Centre
AMEX Viaduct Harbour
Corner Quay and Hobson Street
Downtown Auckland
* Auckland International Airport i-SITE Information Centre A
rrivals Hall, Auckland International Airport.
As you exit the customs hall, the visitor centre is located to the left hand side. It is next to the BNZ Bank and near the rental car companies.
Wellington Information Centre
101 Wakefield Street
Civic Square
PO Box 2199
Wellington
Phone (+64) 4-801-4000
Fax (+64) 4-801-3030

Customs
Travelers are not required to pay duty on an appropriate amount of items for their personal use during their visit. In addition, the following duty-free allowances apply: no more than 1.125 liters of liquor and 4.5 liters of wine; and 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco.

Currency Exchange
Banks are generally Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ATM machines are available throughout the country. Currency can also be exchanged at most major hotels in New Zealand. Most major credit cars can also be used for purchases throughout this island nation. Keep in mind that a bank can offer a cash advance from a Visa or Master Card, but American Express transactions must be processed by an American Express office.

Tipping
Tipping is not common in New Zealand, and tips are generally offered only in appreciation of special service or acts of particular kindness. Service charges are not added to hotel or restaurant bills.

General Business Hours
All shops and businesses are generally open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Most stores are also open from 10:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. or later on Saturdays, and some shops are also open on Sundays. Stores in resort areas tend to maintain evening hours as well. Banks are closed on weekends.

Tax
12.5%

United States Embassy in New Zealand
29 Fitzherbert Terrace, Thorndon
PO Box 1190
Wellington, New Zealand
Phone: (+64) 4-462-6000
Fax: (+64) 4-499-0490

United States Consulate in Auckland.
3rd Floor, Citibank Building
23 Customs St
Private Bag 92022
Auckland, New Zealand
Phone: (+64) 9-303-2724
Fax: (+64) 9-366-0870