Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Insurance
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A watertight travel insurance policy covering theft, loss and medical problems is essen-
tial. Some policies specifically exclude designated 'dangerous activities' such as scuba
diving, bungy jumping, white-water rafting, skiing and even tramping. If you plan on doing
any of these things (a distinct possibility in NZ!), make sure your policy covers you fully.
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It's worth mentioning that under NZ law, you cannot sue for personal injury (other than
exemplary damages). Instead, the country's
Accident Compensation Corporation
(ACC;
www.acc.co.nz
)
administers an accident compensation scheme that provides acci-
dent insurance for NZ residents and visitors to the country, regardless of fault. This
scheme, however, does not negate the necessity for your own comprehensive travel-in-
surance policy, as it doesn't cover you for such things as income loss, treatment at home
or ongoing illness.
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Consider a policy that pays doctors or hospitals directly, rather than you paying on the
spot and claiming later. If you have to claim later, keep all documentation. Some policies
ask you to call (reverse charges) to a centre in your home country where an immediate
assessment of your problem is made. Check that the policy covers ambulances and
emergency medical evacuations by air.
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Worldwide travel insurance is available at
www.lonelyplanet.com/travel-insurance
. You
can buy, extend and claim online anytime - even if you're already on the road.
Internet Access
Wi-Fi & Internet Service Providers
»
You'll be able to find wi-fi access around the country, from hotel rooms to pub beer gar-
dens to hostel dorms. Usually you have to be a guest or customer to log-on; you'll be is-
sued with an access code. Sometimes it's free, sometimes there's a charge.
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The country's main telecommunications company is
Telecom New Zealand
(
www.telecom.co.nz
) , which has wireless hotspots around the country where you can
purchase prepaid access cards. Alternatively, purchase a prepaid number from the login
page at any wireless hotspot using your credit card. See Telecom's website for hotspot
listings.
»
If you've brought your palmtop or laptop, consider buying a prepaid USB modem (aka a
'dongle') with a local SIM card: both Telecom and
Vodafone
(
www.vodafone.co.nz
)
sell
these from around $100. If you want to get connected via a local internet service provider
(ISP), options include the following:
Clearnet
(
0508 888 800;
www.clearnet.co.nz
)
