What to do

i-SITE Visitor Information Centres

Visit one of our i-SITE Visitor Information Centres for free advice and bookings for activities, attractions, accommodation and transport in Auckland, and throughout New Zealand. The i-SITE staff have a huge amount of local knowledge and can help you make the most of your time while you’re here.

Useful Information

Climate

Auckland enjoys a subtropical climate without extremes of temperature. Summer is from December to February.

Electricity

230 Volts, 50 Hertz. Australian/New Zealand three pin socket

Driving

In New Zealand, drive on the left hand side. Rental companies will usually ask for an international driver’s licence, with a minimum age of 21.

Health and vaccinations

No vaccination certificates are required and hospitals provide a high standard of treatment. Medical services are not free to visitors so health insurance is recommended.

Shopping

Normal shopping hours from Monday to Saturday are 9am-5pm; some stores and malls have longer opening hours and late nights. Malls and major shopping areas are usually open normal hours on Sundays; shops in some smaller retail areas may be closed.

Tipping

Tipping is not expected but you may wish to reward special service or kindness.

Visas

Travellers from over 50 countries do not require a visitor’s visa for stays of less than three months. For further information visit immigration.govt.nz

Goods and Services Tax (GST)

GST of 15% is included in most purchases and cannot be claimed back by overseas visitors.

Mobile telephones

New Zealand operates on a 900 or 1800 MHz network, as do most countries except Canada and USA. Mobile telephones from these countries will not operate in New Zealand. You can buy or rent a New Zealand compatible phone or SIM card upon arrival.

Wi-Fi access

You can find some free Wi-Fi spots in central Auckland and some cafés also offer free Wi-Fi for customers. A number of accommodation providers offer free Wi-Fi access; check when you book your room.

Smoke-free policies

It is illegal to smoke in many indoor spaces, including most workplaces, function and hospitality venues, cinemas, pubs and restaurants, as well as public transport. Cigarettes cannot be sold to anyone under 18.