New Zealand
Kia Ora. New Zealand's spectacularly beautiful landscape includes vast mountain chains, steaming volcanoes, sweeping coastlines, deeply indented fiords and lush rainforests.
 There's nothing more exciting than discovering something new. It's how you can re-discover yourself. By going to hidden places that are both inspiring, and awe-inspiring. In a region that's like nowhere else on Earth. Where a secret destination can become a favourite destination.
In New Zealand, you'll experience true luxury, discovery, adventure and mystery. It's there to be found. In the land, in the people, in the spirits. Now's the time to seek out new, unique and authentic experiences. And let the our luxury collection be your guide. New Zealand Fast FactsClimate: The north of New Zealand is subtropical and the south temperate. The warmest months are December, January and February, and the coldest June, July and August. In summer, the average maximum temperature ranges between 20-30ºC and in winter between 10-15ºC. While these temperatures are the norm, the weather in New Zealand can change unexpectedly as cold fronts or tropical cyclones quickly blow in. Because of this, you should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and temperature, particularly if you're going hiking or doing other outdoor activities. Time Zone: Two hours ahead of Australia's Eastern States. Currency: The New Zealand dollar is the basic unity of currency 1AUD = 1.15NZD. ATM's are widely available at banks, along main shopping streets and in malls. International credit cards and ATM cards will work as long as they have a four-digit PIN encoded. Check with your bank before leaving home. Shopping: Most shops and businesses are open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, as a minimum. Many stores also open Saturdays and some open on Sundays. In resorts you will find most stores open in the evenings. New Zealand offers a huge variety of shopping from arts and craft markets, galleries and museum shops to exclusive designer stores. For traditional New Zealand souvenirs look for examples of superb Maori carvings in wood, bone and pounamu (greenstone or jade). You can also find jewellery and ornaments made from the iridescent paua shell (abalone), treasured by Ma ori for centuries. New Zealand potters are recognised as among the world's finest and today many fine artisans are also working in stone, wood, glass and metals. The country's vast wool industry makes it possible to find wonderful handknitted wool sweaters, beautiful wall hangings, homespun yarns and top-quality sheepskins. Alongside top international fashion in boutique stores in the main city areas, you will also find New Zealand's own award-winning fashion labels, including Zambesi, NomD, Karen Walker and World. Languages: English is the common and everyday language of New Zealand. New Zealand is a multi-cultural society and you may hear many other languages spoken, including Maori, which is also an official language of New Zealand. Electricity: 220 volts same plug as Australia Visa: Australian passport holders do not require a visa. Proof of onward travel is required.
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