Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Currency
NZ's currency is the NZ dollar, comprising 100 cents. There are 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2
coins, and $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 notes. Prices are often still marked in single cents
and then rounded to the nearest 10c when you hand over your money.
Moneychangers
Changing foreign currency or travellers cheques is usually no problem at banks throughout
NZ or at licensed moneychangers such as Travelex in the major cities. Moneychangers can
be found in all major tourist areas, cities and airports.
Taxes & Refunds
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a flat 15% tax on all domestic goods and services.
Prices include GST. There's no GST refund available when you leave NZ.
Tipping
Tipping is completely optional in NZ - the total at the bottom of a restaurant bill is all you
need to pay (note that sometimes there's an additional service charge). That said, it's totally
acceptable to reward good service - between 5% and 10% of the bill is fine.
Travellers Cheques
Amex, Travelex and other international brands of travellers cheques are a bit old-fashioned
these days, but they're easily exchanged at banks and moneychangers. Present your pass-
port for identification when cashing them; shop around for the best rates/lowest fees.
Opening Hours
Note that most attractions close on Christmas Day and Good Friday.
Shops and businesses
9am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 12.30pm or 5pm
Saturday. Late-night shopping (until 9pm) in larger cities on Thursday and/or Friday nights.
Sunday trading in most big towns and cities.
Supermarkets
8am to 7pm, often 9pm or later in cities.
Banks
9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday; limited number of city branches also open
Saturday mornings.
Post offices
8.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday; larger branches also 9.30am to 1pm
Saturday. Postal desks in newsagents open later.
