Driving in New Zealand
New Zealand drives on the left side of the road -- the same as Australia, the UK, Japan, and India. For travellers from countries that drive on the right, this requires concentration, especially at roundabouts and when turning.
- Speed limits: 100 km/h on open roads, 50 km/h in urban areas unless signed otherwise. Speed cameras are widely used and fines are significant.
- Single-lane bridges: Common throughout rural NZ, especially on the South Island. A sign indicates which direction has right of way -- the other must give way.
- Gravel roads: Many scenic routes include unsealed gravel sections. Slow down, steer smoothly. Your car hire agreement may exclude gravel road coverage -- check before driving.
- Mountain passes: The Crown Range (near Wanaka), Arthur's Pass, and the Milford Road can be affected by snow and ice in winter. Check road conditions at nzta.govt.nz before driving.
- Driving licence: An international driving permit alongside your home licence is recommended, especially for non-English-language licences.
- Fuel: Petrol stations are plentiful in cities and larger towns, but distances between them on the South Island can be long. Refuel before entering alpine or remote areas.
Tipping culture
New Zealand does not have a tipping culture. Service staff are paid a living wage and tips are not expected. You may occasionally see a tip jar at a cafe -- this is entirely optional and discretionary. At restaurants, rounding up a bill or leaving a small gratuity for exceptional service is appreciated but absolutely not expected. Never feel obligated to tip.
This is genuinely different from the US and parts of Asia. NZ hospitality wages are built into menu prices. Attempting to tip at the level common in the US would be unusual but will not cause offence.
Time zones
New Zealand is one of the world's easternmost countries and is typically 12-13 hours ahead of UTC:
- NZST (standard time): UTC+12 (April to September)
- NZDT (daylight saving time): UTC+13 (October to April)
- New Zealand is 2 hours ahead of Sydney/Melbourne in daylight saving; 3 hours in NZST
- New Zealand is 5.5 hours ahead of India standard time (IST)
There is no time zone difference within New Zealand -- both islands use NZST/NZDT. The Chatham Islands (a territory 800km off the coast) use their own time zone, but visitors rarely go there.
Health and medical
New Zealand's healthcare system is excellent. Accident and Emergency departments are available in all cities and most large towns. Key points:
- ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation): NZ has a universal no-fault accident compensation scheme. If you are injured in an accident while in NZ -- on the road, hiking, doing an activity -- ACC covers most medical treatment costs for that injury. This is unique to NZ and does not cover illness.
- Travel insurance is still essential for illness, medical evacuation, and non-accident related treatment, which is not covered by ACC.
- Pharmacies (chemists): Found in all towns. Many medications available over the counter that require prescription elsewhere. Pharmacists can advise on most minor ailments.
- Water: Tap water is safe to drink throughout New Zealand -- no need to buy bottled water for safety reasons. Bring a reusable bottle.
- Earthquakes: New Zealand is seismically active, particularly the South Island and Wellington region. Minor tremors are common and unremarkable. In the unlikely event of a significant earthquake, follow the official Drop-Cover-Hold guidance.
Safety
New Zealand is one of the world's safest countries for travellers. Petty crime (phone and bag theft) occurs in tourist areas as in any country -- basic awareness and common sense apply. The main safety risks in NZ are:
- Outdoor/wilderness: NZ's backcountry can be genuinely dangerous. Weather changes fast. Mobile coverage disappears. Always tell someone your plans, carry a PLB (personal locator beacon -- available for free hire from many outdoor shops and visitor information centres) for remote hikes.
- Water: Rip currents and surf conditions are responsible for a significant number of drownings each year. Swim at patrolled beaches and between the flags.
- Driving fatigue: Long drives on unfamiliar roads, combined with jet lag, are a real risk. Stop frequently, share driving where possible, and don't underestimate distances.
Shopping hours and public holidays
Most shops in NZ open 9am-5:30pm Monday-Friday, with Saturday hours similar and Sunday hours often shorter. Supermarkets typically open 7am-10pm or later. Public holidays when many businesses close include: Christmas Day (25 Dec), Boxing Day (26 Dec), New Year's Day (1 Jan), and Waitangi Day (6 Feb). Regional anniversary days also exist -- your guide will advise if relevant.
Cultural etiquette
- Hongi: The traditional Maori greeting of pressing noses and foreheads. If offered, accept it -- it is a significant gesture of welcome.
- Removing shoes: When visiting a marae (Maori meeting ground), shoes are removed at the entrance. Follow the lead of your guide.
- Photography: Always ask before photographing Maori carvings or people. Some carvings and taonga (treasures) may not be photographed.
- Queuing: New Zealanders queue in orderly lines and expect it. Jumping a queue is considered rude.
- "Kia ora": The universal Maori greeting meaning "be well." Using it is welcome and appreciated.