Frequently Asked Questions

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 – 24deg celsius, however in central Otago can be 30 deg celcius; winter 9 – 14deg Celsius. The South Island is slightly cooler than the North, however short-lived southerly (cold) fronts sweep the country at any time of the year, so the motto is be prepared, even in summer, and especially if you are in the high country!

New Zealand has an aggressive breath testing regime and strict penalties for drinking and driving. The blood alcohol limit is 50mg per 100ml. For drivers under 20 the limit is zero.

Dial 111 for Police/Fire/Ambulance emergency in NZ. Medical and emergency facilities are high quality and but can be very busy. They are generally not free to visitors. Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended.

Our ACC system does cover emergency medical treatment for international visitors in the event of an accident. 

In New Zealand, we drive on the left side of the road and give way to everything on our right.  Roadside speed cameras operate with no signage.  Take your time and save your money for fun things. Obey the speed signs and watch your mirrors for traffic build-up behind you. Pull over and let others pass so you can enjoy the scenery.

New Zealand operates a 15% 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.

South Island ski fields in Canterbury and Queenstown have the most reliable snow coverage between July and September.

Sleepervans/campercars generally are normal cars or vans that have been converted for camping. Head room is limited and you will not be able to stand up inside (unless you are very short). Some will have self-containment certification, and will have a portapottie. In practice this is likely to be difficult to use inside the vehicle and you should rely on public toilet facilities or campgrounds instead.

Campervans tend to be small vans with a high-top. While they usually have self-containment certification, they will not have a shower, or toilet cubicle. Instead there may be a porta-pottie that you might need to set up indoors for night use. Because you can stand up and move around easily, you are able to use the toilet inside, but there is limited privacy.

Motorhomes are usually larger, and should have a toilet cubicle with an external removable cassette for ease of emptying. They may or may not have a shower facility also. They sometimes have hot water, and cabin heating but you should check this as not always the case.

Best travel tip 

Keep some flexibility in your plans so you can follow the sunshine. Southerly fronts can come any time of the year and bring rain for a day or 2.  Our mountains mean it will always be sunny on 1 side, and changing the direction of your route may make a huge differnce to your holiday weather.