New Zealand Holidays

New Zealand is one of the most isolated countries in the world, and has an estimated population of 4.3 million people. The Maori people are said to have arrived between 700 to 2000 years ago, with the islands only being discovered by the United Kingdom in 1769. Due to its isolation, New Zealand has some truly unique wildlife, such as the iconic Kiwi bird.

GMT +12 hours

New Zealand currency comprises of New Zealand dollars and cents. Currency can be converted at banks, hotels, and foreign exchanges. All major international credit cards are acceptable and ATM's are widely available.

We can only advise of the requirements for British citizen passport holders.For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passport holders, requirements should be checked with the relevant embassy.
Visitors are currently permitted visa free entry into New Zealand and the stopover destinations of Singapore and Hong Kong for stays of up to six months (30 days for Singapore.) Full ten year passports are required and must be valid for six months after your return to the UK, and proof of onward travel may be required. Please note there are very strict controls for arriving in New Zealand regarding the importation of plant and vegetable matter. It is prohibited to take in any fruit and other kinds of food and snacks.

London to Singapore 12 ½ hours
Singapore to Christchurch 9 hours
Singapore to Auckland 10 hours
London to Hong Kong 12 hours
Hong Kong to Christchurch 12 ½ hours
Hong Kong to Christchurch 11 hours

The North island of New Zealand receives subtropical temperatures whilst the South island is generally cooler. New Zealand's seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere with four definite seasons, spring (Sept - Nov), summer (Dec - Feb), autumn (Mar - May) and winter (Jun - Aug). During winter the temperatures can reach freezing and snow is common in the south island upon high ground.

230 volt AC. Three round pin plugs are used, therefore an adapter is required.

Vaccinations are not required for overseas visitors coming to New Zealand from uninfected areas. You may need vaccinations for visiting Singapore or Hong Kong, please check with your health practitioner.

Drinking tap water in New Zealand presents no risk, however it is recommended to drink bottled water in South East Asia. Medical facilities in New Zealand are of a high standard.

In keeping with New Zealand's lifestyle, dress is informal on most occasions. Even in the smarter restaurants men are generally not expected to wear formal suits, although you may prefer to take a jacket and tie. Due to the ever changeable climate, it is advisable to pack both lightweight cottons and warm clothing, preferably dressing in layers particularly during the Autumn/Winter period. Comfortable shoes and a light raincoat/umbrella would be advisable as rain can be expected at any time of year. In addition most of the hotels have self service guest laundry facilities at a small additional cost; alternatively, hotels offer a laundry service.