What You Need To Know About New Zealand
New Zealand’s Currency
New Zealand’s unit of currency is the dollar (NZ$).
Exchange Rates
You can calculate the value of your currency in NZ Dollars using the currency convertor above. The rate you are offered in your home country is likely to differ slightly.
Banking
New Zealand banks are open from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. Some are also during weekends. Automated Teller Machines (ATM) are widely available at banks, along main shopping streets and in malls.
Currency values – normal with bold
- Coins have values of 10, 20 and 50 cents, $1 and $2.
- Notes have values of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100.
How Much Will it Cost?
Here is a general guide of what you can expect to pay in New Zealand for a few common items.
A hotel breakfast: NZ$15-$40
Dinner: NZ$25-$70 per main meal
Lunch snack/sandwich: NZ$5-$10
Cafe lunch: NZ$10-$25
A postcard stamp to anywhere abroad: NZ$2
Big Mac Hamburger: NZ$5.10
Cappuccino: NZ$3.50-$4.50
Tipping and Service Charges
Tipping in New Zealand is not obligatory – even in restaurants and bars. However, tipping for good service or kindness is at the discretion of the visitor. Hotels and restaurants in New Zealand do not add service charges to their bills.
Visas and Immigrations for New Zealand
Maybe the most important part of your trip is arranging a Visa.
Having the right passport and visa organized is the key to a trouble free entry into New Zealand.
Passport
When you arrive in New Zealand, you’ll need to be carrying a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date.
On Arrival
You will need to complete a Passenger Arrival Card before passing through Customs Passport Control. A passenger arrival card will be given to you during your flight; if not, cards are available in the arrival area.
