New Zealand is a truly Gay friendly country having
the most advanced laws in the world, comparable to the Netherlands, Denmark
and Sweden. The Anti-discrimination Act prohibits discrimination on grounds
of race, gender and political or sexual orientation. The legendary hospitality
is only one good reason to visit this awesome Country!
One of New Zealand's greatest assets is her friendly, open-minded, easy-going people who are proud to share the beauty of their wonderful country with all visitors. Lush green landscapes, golden beaches, active volcanoes, breathtaking mountain scenery, dramatic coastlines and unrivalled wildlife make New Zealand a truly memorable experience.
Travelling around New Zealand is simplicity itself, with enviable open roads, very little traffic and stunning scenery around every corner. We strongly recommend self-drive touring as one of the best ways of getting around.
Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, is known as the 'City of Sails'. The bustling harbour is filled with yachts and forms the focus of the city with many harbour front restaurants and bars. Auckland is the main hub of Gay and Lesbian life in the country and Ponsonby Road is where many Gay / Lesbian owned and operated shops, cafes and restaurants and night-clubs are located.
A short drive South from Auckland lies Rotorua, a major centre for indigenous Maori spirituality, culture and tradition. It is also the centre for geothermal activity in New Zealand and visitors can view at close range, boiling mud pools, geysers, crystal clear springs and silica terraces..
Wellington, situated on the southern tip of North Island, is New Zealand's capital city and it is proud of its cosmopolitan atmosphere and good night-life. The city is home to the world renowned 'Te Papa' National Museum.
Other places to visit include Christchurch, the third largest city in New Zealand, situated on South Island. Called the 'Garden City' it is often described as the most English City outside of England! Here you will find a small but interesting Gay scene and Christchurch is the base for many great day trips.
If adventure and adrenaline are for you, then you need look no further than Queenstown. Here you can indulge your passion for extreme sports, however if you prefer gentler pursuits you won't be disappointed. Nestling on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown commands unforgettable views of the peaks surrounding the lake. Adventure sports, lake cruises, walks and good shopping make Queenstown one of the most popular holiday Resorts in New Zealand.
The University City of Dunedin in the South East of South Island has a small but growing gay scene. The main attraction here is wildlife, and Dunedin is home to the world's only accessible mainland Albatross colony along with colonies of Yellow-Eyed Penguins, Shags and Seals.
GENERAL
INFORMATION
New Zealand, called 'Aotearoa' - the Land of the Long White Cloud in Maori, is often described as the 'Most Beautiful End of the World'. Here is some general information to help make your stay as pleasurable as possible.
ENTRY
REQUIREMENTS
Passports are required by all visitors and must be valid for at least three months beyond the date the visitor intends leaving the country. UK passport holders do not require a visa to enter New Zealand providing they do not intend to work, study or seek medical treatment.
VACCINATIONS
No vaccination certificates are required when entering New Zealand.
VOLTAGE
Voltage is 220/240 V
CLIMATE
New Zealand's seasons are in reverse to those of the Northern Hemisphere. In the North Island the climate is subtropical to moderate all year round. In the South Island winter is generally cold with snow to be found in mountainous regions. During the summer months the temperatures are not excessively hot throughout New Zealand.
PRECAUTIONS
There are no poisonous snakes or dangerous wild animals in New Zealand. Insect repellent is recommended near water. The clarity of New Zealand's atmosphere and presence of the 'ozone hole' mean that Burn Time can be as low as 10 - 12 minutes at summers peak. Hats and sun block are necessary when outdoors.
TRADING
HOURS
General retail trading hours throughout the country are Monday to Friday 0900 to 1730. Some areas offer late shopping once weekly. Most shops are open on Saturdays from 1000 to 1500 and an increasing number in urban areas are open on Sundays and many Public Holidays.
GOODS
AND SERVICES TAX
New Zealand's Goods and Services tax is currently 12.5% and is included in marked prices in shops.
AIRPORT
DEPARTURE TAX
An airport tax is payable for all international departures. Currently (October 02) the following levels apply:
· Auckland NZ$22.00 per person
· Wellington NZ$25.00 per person
· Christchurch NZ$25.00 per person
TIPPING
/ GRATUITIES
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants but is not obligatory. Employees in New Zealand do not depend on tips as part of their income.
