| Tips and FAQs about campervan touring in New Zealand |
What is the climate in New Zealand?
As a Southern Hemisphere country, New Zealand’s seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere, so summer is December to February and winter June to August. Average summer temperatures are 20 - 22° Celsius, winter 7 – 9° Celsius. The South Island is cooler than the North.
What customs and quarantine restrictions are there?
New Zealand is an island and zealously guards its borders from introduced pests and predators. All items of camping and hiking equipment need to be clean and are likely to be inspected. Please check with your airline for current regulations.
What are the drink/drive laws?
New Zealand has an aggressive breath testing regime and strict penalties for drinking and driving. The blood alcohol limit is 80mg per 100ml.
What kind of electricity is supplied in New Zealand?
New Zealand runs on 240v AC supply via slant pin outlets.
What are fuel costs in New Zealand?
The fuel that our campervans run on currently averages between $1.20 and $1.30/litre.
What medical and emergency facilities are there?
Medical and emergency facilities are high quality and readily available, but not free to visitors. Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended.
What are New Zealand road conditions like?
Very few New Zealand roads, except for major city motorways, are divided. Most roads are narrow two lane, with shingle or grass verges. Minor roads may not have surface markings and in some cases are unsealed. Allow plenty of time for local conditions when planning your journey. Be aware also that in New Zealand herds of farm stock are moved on the road.
What road rules apply in New Zealand?
In New Zealand, we drive on the left side of the road and give way to everything on our right. This road rule is currently under review and may well have changed prior to the commencement of your hire. Please check before hitting the road.
Is there a Sales Tax?
New Zealand operates a blanket 12.5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on all items except financial services. Prices are usually expressed as inclusive of GST unless stated. Some trade and wholesale outlets will express prices excluding GST.
What are the seatbelt laws?
All occupants (children included) are legally required to wear a seatbelt.
Where and when is the best skiing?
South Island ski fields in Canterbury and Queenstown have the most reliable snow coverage between May and September.
What are the speed limits?
New Zealand is a metric country so speeds are posted in kilometers per hour, distance in kilometers. New Zealand speed limits are posted in standard international format signs. In general, urban areas are 50kmh (30mph), open roads are 100khm (60mph). Other limits are signposted.
What are standard opening hours?
Banking hours are 0930 – 1630, Monday to Friday, excluding Public Holidays. In larger centres, a full range of shops are open 0900 – 1730 (and longer). Hours vary in smaller centres. Those catering to the tourist trade are generally open longer.
What about tipping?
New Zealanders do not depend on gratuities for their income.
|
