Short answer: Before departure, tell New Zealand clients five things: the sun is stronger than they expect, the weather changes quickly, power sockets take Type I plugs, tipping is optional, and traffic drives on the left. Add the emergency number 111 and the biosecurity rules, and most avoidable problems are covered.
Agents brief clients on flights, hotels and entry rules as a matter of course. The questions that come back from the road are usually smaller: why a client got sunburnt on a cloudy day, why their charger does not fit, whether to tip the guide. This note collects the practical points we suggest every agent passes on before a New Zealand trip. For visas, the NZeTA and arrival rules, see our separate guide to New Zealand entry requirements.
Sun and weather
- The sun is strong. Tourism New Zealand's visitor guidance says the sun's UV rays are stronger in New Zealand than in much of Europe or North America. Clients need a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, even on cool or cloudy days and on the water.
- The weather changes quickly. In the mountains and on the coast, a clear morning can turn wet and cold by the afternoon. A light waterproof jacket and a warm layer belong in every day bag, in every season.
- Seasons are reversed for northern hemisphere clients. Summer runs from December to February and winter from June to August. See our guide to the best time to sell New Zealand.
Power, phones and money
- Power plugs: New Zealand uses Type I plugs, with two flat angled pins and one straight pin below. The supply is 230/240 volts. Clients from most of Asia, Europe and the Americas need an adapter, and devices must accept that voltage.
- Phones and internet: most hotels offer Wi-Fi, and local SIM or eSIM plans are easy to buy on arrival. Mobile coverage is weak or absent in many national parks and on remote roads, so clients should download maps before driving.
- Money: the currency is the New Zealand dollar. Cards, including contactless payment, are widely accepted; some small rural businesses prefer cash. Prices shown in shops and restaurants include GST, the goods and services tax.
Tipping and service
Tipping is not expected in New Zealand, including in restaurants and bars. Clients may tip a guide or driver for good service if they wish, but it is a personal choice and not part of the price. Clients from countries where tipping is standard are often relieved to hear this.
On the road
- Traffic drives on the left. Many clients have never driven on the left; we suggest a driver-guide or coach for anyone unsure.
- Drive times are longer than maps suggest, because roads are winding and often single lane each way.
- See our self-drive and campervan briefing for clients who will drive.
Outdoors and wildlife
- Sandflies bite at many lakes, rivers and beaches, especially in Fiordland and on the West Coast. Insect repellent helps.
- Stay on marked tracks in national parks and follow the Department of Conservation's signs and closures.
- Do not feed wildlife or approach seals and seabirds on the shore.
Safety and emergencies
The emergency number for police, fire and ambulance is 111, and calls are free. Clients should carry travel insurance that covers medical care and the activities they plan to do. Our trade desk and local partners support clients on the ground; see our 24/7 travel support page.
How Explera DMC New Zealand can help
We prepare client-ready briefing notes for FIT and tailor-made programmes and group tours, adapted to each client's route and season. Send us the itinerary and the client's home country, and we will flag what they need to know.
FAQ
What plug do clients need in New Zealand? A Type I plug, with two flat angled pins and one straight pin. The supply is 230/240 volts, so devices must accept that voltage.
Should clients tip in New Zealand? Tipping is not expected. Clients may tip a guide or driver for good service, but it is their choice.
Why do clients get sunburnt so easily in New Zealand? UV levels are high. Tourism New Zealand advises a hat and sunscreen on sunny days, and the risk remains on cool or cloudy days and on the water.
What is the emergency number in New Zealand? 111, for police, fire and ambulance. Calls are free.
Talk to the trade desk
Explera DMC New Zealand trade desk — b2b@explera.co.nz, WhatsApp +66 93 656 8090, B2B portal b2b.expleradmc.com.
