New Zealand is “Middle-earth” with spectacular landscapes in a very compact area. Both islands offer pure adventure and the relaxed Kiwi mindset.
Sights
North Island: Auckland with the Sky Tower, Rotorua with geothermal wonders and Māori culture, Bay of Islands for sailing and dolphins. Hobbiton near Matamata is a must for LOTR fans.
South Island: Queenstown is the adventure capital featuring bungee jumping and Milford Sound. Franz Josef Glacier can be hiked. Christchurch presents itself completely renewed after the earthquake.
Tipping
Tipping is uncommon – New Zealanders have fair wages like Australians. Restaurants: Only for exceptional service. Bars: Not expected. Taxis: Rounding up. Adventure Tours: Not necessary, but recognition for guides is welcome.
Traffic rules
State Highways: 100 km/h
Rural roads: 80-100 km/h
Urban areas: 50 km/h
Mountain roads: Often 35-60 km/h
Caution: Left-hand traffic. One-lane bridges are common – pay attention to priority rules. Sheep on roads possible. Weather can change quickly. Alcohol limit: 0.5 per mille (0.0 under 20).
Currency & Payment
New Zealand uses the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). EFTPOS is standard everywhere. Contactless (Paywave) is very common. Cash for small markets or Fish & Chips. Mobile Payment with smartphones is popular.
Sweet as, bro! Kiwis love cashless – your kingpay is right at home here!
Important phone numbers
Emergency: 111
Police: 105 (non-urgent)
AA (breakdown service): 0800 500 222
DOC (national parks): 0800 362 468
Paying with kingpay in New Zealand
With your kingpay Mastercard®, you pay contactless worldwide, see every transaction in real time in the app, and earn cashback along the way.
