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Travel Tips - New Zealand Travel Guide

When should I travel?

When you travel is up to you. Nationwide is open year-round. The peak tourist season is from December to March which is summer in New Zealand (average temperature low 20s Celsius). Many people travel from June to September which is winter and therefore the ski season (average temperature teens Celsius). April-May and October-November are also great times to travel as the climate is temperate.

Currency

The currency in New Zealand is the dollar (100 cents = 1 dollar). Cash is always accepted and most retailers accept credit cards. You can convert your currency on arrival at all international airports.

Taxes and duties

Retailers are required to collect Goods and Services tax (GST) on all goods and services sold in New Zealand including your car hire. GST is 12.5% of the price and is already included in most shops' prices.

Departure tax

You will be required to pay a departure tax when leaving New Zealand. This is generally NZ$25.00-NZ$30.00 and is paid at your departing airport.

Trading hours and holidays

Businesses are open all day from Monday to Friday. Most retailers are also open on Saturdays, Sundays and even public holidays.

Nationwide is open on all public holidays except Christmas Day. New Zealand celebrates the following holidays:

  • New Years Day
  • New Year Holiday
  • Waitangi Day (6 February)
  • Good Friday
  • Easter Monday
  • ANZAC Day (25 April)
  • Queen’s Birthday (early June)
  • Labour Day (late October)
  • Christmas Day (25 December)
  • Boxing Day (26 December)
  • Each province in New Zealand also has its own holiday every year