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Climate
Wellington averages between 12 to 19 degrees Celsius in the month of March. Minimal rainfall is forecast during this time of the year.
Goods and Services Tax or GST
All goods and services (except certain financial transactions) in New Zealand are subject to a government 12.5% Goods and Services Tax, commonly known as GST. Overseas visitors cannot claim back GST, however some stores sell goods to overseas visitors exclusive of GST provided you show proof of onward travel arrangements (i.e. departure ticket). It is possible to purchase duty free and GST exempt goods upon arrival at all international airports in New Zealand.
Language
English is the common language of New Zealanders with indigenous Maori the second official language. Japanese, Korean, and major European languages are also spoken in some restaurants, hotels, visitor centres and by tour guides. In New Zealand translators are available for most languages.
Passports
All visitors must have a current passport, valid for at least three months after the intended date of departure from New Zealand.
Time
New Zealand Standard Time is 12 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time. Daylight Saving Time (an advancement of one hour per day) is observed from early October until late March.
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Discover Wellington and New Zealand
There is so much to see and do in Wellington. From action-packed adventure activities to picturesque walks around the beautiful harbour and hills - Wellington has something for everyone.
Wellington City
Stylish cocktail bars, funky designer shopping, contemporary art galleries, award-winning restaurants and cafés - you’ll find this all and more in Wellington. Widely regarded as the arts and culture capital, it is home to the Museum of New Zealand, Te Papa Tongarewa. Set on the edge of a stunning harbour and surrounded by rolling hills, it’s a city waiting to be explored. Boutique Wellington is bustling and vibrant, but nature experiences are never far away, with Karori Sanctuary just ten minutes drive from downtown Wellington. And on the city’s doorstep, just 40 minutes north of Wellington, is the Kapiti Coast, and the internationally acclaimed nature reserve Kapiti Island.
The Hutt Valley
Just a 15 minute drive north of Wellington city is the Hutt Valley. Far more than just a nature gateway, the Hutt Valley offers cultural attractions that are unique to the region, upmarket seaside communities and great shopping. Discover inspiring local stories of innovation, passion and creativity at one of the Hutt Valley’s key attractions, or explore the network of trails through surrounding native forests. Come and visit the gateway to the scenic Hutt River, that feeds the harbour and provides access to the mountains that surround Wellington
Porirua
If you are looking for a break from your busy schedule, head to Porirua just 20 minutes north of Wellington. Porirua offers peaceful surroundings with vibrant culture, art, shopping and outdoor activity. Nestled between rolling hills, alongside two harbours and a rugged coastline, Porirua has beautiful walks beside tranquil waterways, sandy beaches and craggy cliff faces. Discover people that are friendly and come from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Wairarapa
Only one hour by car or train from Wellington is Wairarapa. At the heart of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail, this is a region of big skies, wide valleys and characterful small towns. Discover Greytown, a Victorian country village with metropolitan style, and neighbouring Martinborough wine village, surrounded by friendly family-owned vineyards. Unspoilt Wairarapa blends country charm with luxury retreats and boutique hotels, olive groves, vineyard cafes, award winning restaurants and premium wines. It’s an ideal escape for those who love good food and wine.
For those coming to Wellington from overseas here is a little more information to make your trip a little easier. If you’re after more New Zealand information, please visit the following websites:
www.nztvl.com
www.nzbureau.com
www.newzealand.com
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