Auckland - More information about Auckland

Auckland - New Zealand's indigenous people, the Maori called this as Tamaki Makau Rau, meaning 'isthmus(land) of one thousand lovers', was originally a Maori settlement. After purchasing the land from the Maori, European settlers began to arrive and colonize the land.

Some useful information before you go ahead and explore the beautiful city of Auckland.

How long does it take to get to New Zealand?

Flights are available from destinations worldwide and more than 20 international airlines fly to our shores. No matter where you fly from, New Zealand is no more than a day away. Visitors from further away may lose a day when you cross the international dateline, but you’ll gain one on the way back. What’s more, New Zealand is the first country to see the sun each day.

Do I need a passport or a visa to visit New Zealand?

All visitors to New Zealand must carry a passport that is valid for at least three months from the date when you intend to leave the country. Visas are not required for most visitors who are staying less than three months but it is best to check your requirements on the New Zealand Immigration Service website www.immigration.govt.nz. For longer stays a visitor’s visa may be required.

Is it wise to get health insurance when travelling to New Zealand from overseas?

Medical services are not free to visitors, so health insurance is recommended.

How safe is New Zealand?

New Zealand is considered one of the safest destinations in the world. We have one poisonous spider that the majority of the population have never seen and no dangerous animals. Crime is low and problems can generally be avoided by using common sense. The water in our cities and towns is excellent and in all cases tap water is fresh and safe to drink. To be on the safe side it is a good idea to boil or treat water from rivers and lakes.

What is the climate like?

New Zealand's seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere. This means that the warmest months are December, January and February, while the coldest are in June, July and August. Don't let cold months put you off - winters tend to be short and generally fairly mild. That said, on any given day the weather and temperature can change unexpectedly and sometimes dramatically. You should be prepared for that, particularly if you are going hiking or doing other outdoor activities.

What clothes should I take?

Dress is informal and relaxed on most occasions. Smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants and night-spots. Men are generally not expected to wear suits and ties, except in a few of the top formal bars and restaurants in major cities. In summer a jacket and sweater should be included in your luggage should the weather turn cooler or you visit higher altitudes. You can expect some rain, so also include a light rainproof jacket or coat. If visiting between May and September, pack warm winter garments and layer your clothing.

Can I use my credit card in New Zealand?

Yes. Feel free to spend at will. We accept all major credit cards and money can be changed at banks, hotels and Bureau de Change kiosks throughout the country.

How far will my money go?

New Zealand’s currency is based on dollars ($) and cents (c). There are five notes ($5, $10, $20, $50, $100) and five coins (10c, 20c, 50c, $1, $2). Check-out www.xe.com for the latest exchange rates or visit one of the currency converters at airports and kiosks which can be found in most city centres.

Do I need to tip in New Zealand?
Employees in New Zealand do not depend on or expect tips as part of their income but recognition for good service is always appreciated.

Does New Zealand tax goods and services?

New Zealand has a compulsory goods and services tax (GST) of 15%. This is included in the advertised price of goods and services unless stated. Overseas visitors cannot claim the GST they may have paid. However, some tourist-oriented stores may agree to export your purchases for you and make them GST exempt.

When I arrive in New Zealand, who can help me find out where to go?

i-SITE New Zealand is our official Visitor Information Network. There are 90 i-SITE Visitor Centres around New Zealand which provide visitors with comprehensive, up-to-date information and a New Zealand-wide booking service for activities, attractions, accommodation and transport.
Auckland has 12 i-SITES Visitor Centres located at: Auckland International Airport, Auckland Domestic Airport, Princes Wharf (downtown), SKYCITY (downtown), Waiheke Island, Great Barrier Island, Warkworth, Orewa, Takapuna, Devonport, Franklin and Pukekohe. Call toll free 0800 Auckland (0800 282 552) or+64 9 367 6009.

Which side of the road do New Zealanders drive on?

The left. So if you’re American, European or Asian a bit of adjustment is required whereas English and Australians will feel right at home.

Is it easy to hire a car in New Zealand?

All of the main international car hire companies operate in New Zealand plus there are many reputable local companies. You will need to be 21 years of age to hire a car and 25 to hire a campervan. A current driver’s license from your home country or an International License (in English text) will be required. Then the country is all yours. Most major rental car companies have depots at Auckland Airport and in downtown Auckland.

What type of food can I expect in New Zealand?

Our Pacific Rim food and wines are world class. There is a wide variety of exotic cuisines available from Asian to Mediterranean and more. Plus, of course, traditional fare such as roasts, burgers and our local favourite, good old fish and chips. Freshly grown produce is abundant and our seafood is plucked directly from the ocean so the quality of our food is unsurpassed. New Zealand wines regularly pick up international awards and you’ll be able to appreciate them for yourself.

What is Auckland famous for?

When you visit Auckland, you’ll really appreciate how easy it is to jump from one kind of adventure to something totally different. One minute, you’ll be standing in the central city surrounded by skyscrapers and designer store. Not 30 minutes later you’ll be afloat in the beautiful Waitemata Harbour heading for an island escape or a dolphin encounter.Within 45 minutes of downtown Auckland, you’ll be in the rolling hills of wine country or hiking through native bush surrounded by bird life. There’s really no place like it. A bit more about Auckland:

• It’s New Zealand’s largest city with 1.4 million people.
• Shopping and fashion – hot deals to haute couture. Outlet stores to global fashion houses.
• Food and wine – national and international award-winning vineyards and restaurants all around the region.
• Action and adventure – bungy jumping, quad biking, mountain biking, sailing, horse trekking, canyoning, fishing and much more to suit every adrenaline-junkie’s itinerary.
• Sailing – Auckland has the highest number of boats per capita than anywhere else in the world. Book yourself on a sailing adventure and find out why it’s so popular here.

How do I get from Auckland Airport to the city?

Airbus: the city-to-airport bus departs every 15 minutes. Tickets are available on the bus or from any Auckland i-SITE Visitor Centre. Shuttles and taxis: The airport licenses specific taxi and shuttle companies to ensure airport visitors and travellers receive a high standard of service. Taxi and shuttle ranks are located outside the arrivals area at the international terminal and outside the luggage collection area at the domestic terminal. Self-drive: the drive from the airport to the city takes approximately 45 minutes and is well signposted. To get to the airport from the city centre, take the Gillies Road exit on the Southern Motorway and follow the airport signs.

Is it hard to find your way around Auckland?

No. With a free downtown city bus service, a low-cost bus service for the inner city suburbs, a comprehensive public transport system and a great motorway network, getting around Auckland is easy. Ask at the Auckland i-SITE Visitor Centres for local maps and transport stops or make your way to the Britomart transport centre in downtown Auckland.

Where do I catch the city bus?

You can pick up a city bus brochure at Auckland's i-SITE Visitor Centres. The bus operates a small circuit that runs around central downtown linking key destinations in Auckland city. The bus runs every 10 minutes from 8am to 6pm, seven days a week and costs 0.50c.

What types of accommodation are available in Auckland?

You name it, we’ve got it. Everything from five star hotels and luxury boutique hotels where you can luxuriate in your own private spa, to motels, backpackers hostels, caravan parks and camping grounds next to beaches. No matter what your budget, we have something for every traveller.

Can I experience the Maori culture in Auckland?
Maori culture is an important part of the Auckland and New Zealand experience, and you can immerse yourself in this dynamic culture in a variety of different ways. From the hongi (the pressing of the noses to signify the breath of life), to the powhiri (traditional welcome ceremony), the experience will highlight the wonder of this indigenous culture. Check-out Auckland Museum’s Maori cultural performance and guided tour or take in a guided Maori cultural walk. Nau mai, haere mai (welcome)!

What are shop hours in Auckland?

Shops are generally open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 4pm Saturday and Sunday. Some stores open later on Thursday and Friday evenings. There are a number of 24-hour convenience stores, service stations and supermarkets in the central city.

What wildlife can I expect to see?

Auckland is a haven for birds and sea creatures. Seals, whales, dolphins and penguins play off our shores and our native forests are alive with bird song. Our national symbol, the Kiwi (a rare flightless bird), lives deep in our most remote forests and only comes out at night so you’d have to be very fortunate to see one. You can often see wildlife in Auckland by cruising on the Hauraki Gulf and visiting the islands and coasts around the region.

What kind of night life is available in Auckland?

As much or as little as you choose. We have lively DJ and band scenes as well as night clubs, theatre, cinemas, pubs, live entertainment and a casino. A number of international DJ’s, artists and bands tour in New Zealand and many of our local singers and actors are internationally acclaimed. Plus we have plenty of great cafés to drink coffee the morning after!

Where are some central city churches?

Saint Patrick's, 43 Wyndham St, Auckland Central (Catholic); Anglican Church, 12 St Stephens Ave, Parnell; Auckland Greyfriars Presbyterian Church, 544 Mt Eden Road, Mt Eden, Auckland.

Is it safe to swim at the beaches in Auckland?

Auckland is surrounded by three harbours, the Hauraki Gulf on the east coast and the Tasman Sea on the west. While many of the beaches are suitable for swimming, there can be hidden dangers such as rips. Never swim or surf alone, or after drinking alcohol. If a beach is patrolled by lifeguards, swim between the yellow and red flags and take notice of warning signs.

Some useful links:
Transport link below will helpful you with information on public transport:
https://at.govt.nz/

A link of one of the biggest taxi services that can help if required:
http://www.cooptaxi.co.nz/

For all Emergency Services you can dial : 111