Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Safe Travel
» Although it's no more dangerous than other developed countries, violent crime does happen in NZ, so it's worth tak-
ing sensible precautions on the streets at night or if staying in remote areas. Gang culture permeates some parts of the
country; give any black-jacketed, insignia-wearing groups a wide berth.
» Theft from cars is a problem around NZ - travellers are viewed as easy marks. Avoid leaving valuables in vehicles, no
matter where they're parked; you're tempting fate at tourist parking areas and trailhead car parks.
» Don't underestimate the dangers posed by NZ's unpredictable, ever-changing climate, especially in high-altitude
areas. Hypothermia is a real risk.
» NZ has been spared the proliferation of venomous creatures found in neighbouring Australia (spiders, snakes, jelly-
fish…). Sharks patrol NZ waters, but rarely nibble on humans. Much greater ocean hazards are rips and undertows,
which can quickly drag swimmers out to sea: heed local warnings.
» Kiwi roads are often made hazardous by speeding locals, wide-cornering campervans and traffic-ignorant sheep. Set
yourself a reasonable itinerary and keep your eyes on the road. Cyclists take care: motorists can't always overtake easily
on skinny roads.
» In the annoyances category, NZ's sandflies are a royal pain (the intense itching can last for months). Lather yourself
with insect repellent in coastal areas, even if you're only sitting on the edge of a beach for a minute or two.
Telephone
Telecom New Zealand ( www.telecom.co.nz ) The country's key domestic player, with a stake in the local mobile (cell)
market.
Vodafone ( www.vodafone.co.nz ) Mobile network option.
2 Degrees ( www.2degreesmobile.co.nz ) Mobile network option.
Mobile Phones
Local mobile phone numbers are preceded by the prefix 021, 022, 025 or 027. Mobile phone coverage
is good in cities and towns, but can be patchy on the South Island away from urban centres.
If you want to bring your own phone and use a prepaid service with a local SIM card, Vodafone is a practical option.
Any Vodafone shop (found in most major towns) will set you up with a SIM card and phone number (about $40); top-
ups can be purchased at newsagencies, post offices and petrol stations practically anywhere.
Alternatively, if you don't bring your own phone from home, you can rent one from Vodafone Rental
( www.vodarent.co.nz ) priced from $5 per day (for which you'll also need a local SIM card), with pick-up and drop-off
outlets at NZ's major airports. We've also had some positive feedback on Phone Hire New Zealand
( www.phonehirenz.com ), which hires out mobile phones, SIM cards, modems and GPS systems.
Local Calls
Local calls from private phones are free! Local calls from payphones cost $1 for the first 15 minutes, and $0.20 per
minute thereafter, though coin-operated payphones are scarce (and if you do find one, chances are the coin slot will be
gummed up); you'll generally need a phonecard. Calls to mobile phones attract higher rates.
Search WWH ::




Custom Search