Useful Information

Business Hours
Seven day shopping is now standard practise in New Zealand. Many retail shops are open Sundays and most major supermarkets. In smaller towns you may find more restricted hours. In some areas shops close at 5pm weekdays instead of the customary 5:30pm

Banks
Most banks are open 9am to 4:30pm weekdays. ATM’s are found throughout the country. Trading overseas currency closes at 4:30 daily. Phone banking service is available. Eftpos is now available at many campsites and neighbourhood shops.

Motoring
Motorists drive on the left hand side of the road. It is compulsary to wear a seat belt in both the front and the back seats. All children must be restrained when travelling in a car. Motorcyclists and cyclists must wear crash helmets.

Ferries (between North and South Islands)
The interisland ferry sails several times daily between the North and South Island. if you are taking a vehicle accross the straits it is wise to book. Phone 0800 802 802 (toll free) for Interislander. Operates 24hrs

Credit Cards
All major credit cards are acceptable in New Zealand

Telephone Services
There are now a wide range of options available in New Zealand. A special booklet is available from your travel agent, or at our local Information Centers. Ask for “Telecom Guide To travellers” or call 123.
Our Emergency number for Police, Ambulance and Fire Brigade is 111.

Postal Services
NZ Post shops are open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. Stamps are available at many dairies and camp stores.

Tips on pronouncing Maori words.
Pakeha (non-maori) have the most difficulty with vowel sounds in the Maori language. This is the correct pronunciation

a is pronounced as in the English word far. Not as in hat.
e is pronounced as the ea in the English word leather. Not as in hay.
i is pronounced like the English word he or me.
o is pronounced as the English word awe. Not as in Oh!
u is pronounced like the oo in moon. Avoid saying it like few.
Difficult consonants are;
r Do not roll the r, It is pronounced quite close to the sound l in English with the tongue near the front teeth.
p is generally softer than in English.
wh is pronounced like an f.
ng the sound is similar to the ng in singing

Kia ora. (Hello)
Kei te pehea koutou? (How are you?)
Kei te Pai (very well thank you)

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