Category: Living in New Zealand

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Backpacking Living in New Zealand Transport

Driving Rules in New Zealand

Can you turn left at a red light?  Do you really have to give way to the right? What about parking?  Driving in New Zealand is quite similar to other western countries but there are a few rules to bear in mind to avoid an accident ruining your time in the country.  The most important differences are outlined below.

Drive on the left

Like the UK, Australia and Japan, New Zealand drives on the left, and the steering wheel’s on the right.  There’s a mix of automatic and manual transmission with neither being dominant.

Red Lights

Unlike the USA you cannot turn left at a red light.  Some lights will have dedicated lanes that bypass the lights, but this is specific to junctions and not the norm.

Give Way to the Right When Turning Left

If you don’t pay attention to the rest of this article, read this one!  This will catch many people out during their visit to New Zealand and it could be argued it’s the cause of most of the small accidents in the country.  If you are turning left onto a side road, you must give way (yield) to traffic crossing your path from the right!

Give way to the right when turning left

This rule can be very confusing if you are on a two way road, and there is a car behind you going straight on.  Thankfully the law relating to this is due for change around 2012, but always be careful in this situation.

Junctions

It’s worth taking particular care at junctions – there are some very strange ones dotted around the country!  Sometimes you may get a sign looking like you are taking a right turn, but it’s just an indication of the main road you are on having a particularly sharp bend.  Sometimes there are 4 way junctions, and sometimes you wonder why on earth they came up with the road design they did.  Most junctions are easy enough, but beware.

Speed Limits & Road Types

Speed and distance are measured in kilometres.  Speed limits are generally 50km/h in towns and cities, and 100km/h on the open road.  Some shopping areas in towns and cities will enforce a limit of 30km/h.

Apart from the more populated areas of Auckland and Wellington, multi lane motorways are not common in New Zealand.  The main highways throughout most of the country are only one lane in each direction.  There are many junctions from main roads to river access points, scenic areas and private roads so you’ll often have drivers slowing down when you may not expect it.

There can be a lot of agricultural vehicles in some areas and often farm animals are moved along the road.  If you start to see signs warning you of animals on the road and you hardly ever see any, don’t become complacent as the next time you speed around the corner you may be confronted with a road full of sheep and nowhere to go……

Parking

You must park in the direction of travel – e.g. if you see a space on the other side of the road, don’t cross into the oncoming lane and reverse into the space – you will probably get a ticket.  Also be careful that you don’t park over a fire hydrant or something – a friend recently got a ticket when doing that and there was no warning sign in place!

Take Your Time

There’s a lot to see in New Zealand, and a lot of places to pull off for a rest and refreshment.  Take advantage of them and take your time.  The roads here can be narrow and hilly and it may not be easy to pass others.  It can take a bit longer to cover the distance than you may expect so take this into consideration.  If you’re travelling 300km, don’t assume you’ll be doing 100km/h and it’ll take you just over 3 hours – there are probably a lot of towns and villages on the way where you’ll have to slow down.  Plan accordingly and leave plenty of time.

Driving with a Campervan

Campervans are big.  Campervans are heavy.  New Zealand is hilly.  If you’re driving a van, campervan or motorhome, pull over now and again if you are causing a hold up and there will be less chance of someone behind you pushing to overtake you.  Be a considerate driver.

Winter Driving

Although it’s called the ‘Desert Road’ (to the east of the Tongariro National Park), and the main road South from Taupo, it’s often affected by snow and ice, particularly in the winter.  This road is no exception – be prepared for winter.  Winter can be harsh in New Zealand particularly in the central North Island and South Island.  Be prepared for snow and ice. Some access roads to ski resorts are steep and you may be forced to put on chains to access them, or have a 4×4

Police and Speed Cameras

There can be a lot of police on the roads in New Zealand, particularly around holiday periods.  There are also speed cameras dotted around.  In the UK, speed cameras can be really obvious as sometimes have warning signs and covered with bright striped – don’t expect the same here.

Insurance

Car insurance is not compulsory in New Zealand although most people have it.  Bear this in mind when you take the risk when hiring a car or campervan and carefully consider whether you want to take out the entire insurance package.

Driving Licences

You can drive in New Zealand using many driving licences or an international driving licence.  If you stay in the country for over 12 months you’ll have to get a New Zealand driving licence.

Conclusion

Driving in New Zealand can be very relaxing compared to other countries – there are less people around, and less built up areas.  Despite this there are the exceptions above to remember, particularly the give way rule which causes a lot of confusion to newcomers.  New Zealand has to be one of the most enjoyable counties to do a self drive tour around, so hopefully with these tips, you have a safe and hassle free experience.

If you are coming over here for a longer period, please check out our guides to Buying a Used Car or Campervan in New Zealand, or Renting a Campervan.

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Living in New Zealand

Sun and UV protection

Australia went through a big sun protection promotion a few years ago, and New Zealand is no different.  With the second highest rate of skin cancer in the world, it’s vital that you stay protected from the sun during your stay in New Zealand.

The sun is intense in New Zealand, and even on an apparent cloudy day you can burn in under 30 minutes.

Remember to SLIP on a shirt, SLOP on some sunscreen and SLAP on a hat!  After all you probably came her to experience the great outdoors the country is renowned for, so don’t let it ruin your experience.  Tramping with a backpack on sunburnt shoulders?  Euurrrgh!

More information can be found out from Sunsmart New Zealand.

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Living in New Zealand

Learn your Kiwi Lingo – speak like the locals (or at least try!)

If you come to visit New Zealand you’re bound to get tripped up by at least a few of the place names and local language.  Many place names reflect their traditional Maori names, and some fruits may be named differently from back home.  Read the guide and go local!

 

If you haven’t watched the above video, play it now then carry on reading – it’s a funny introduction to how to pronounce one place name correctly.  Taupo is one of the most popular places tourists visit, it’s far from the hardest to pronounce, yet it’s probably pronounced incorrectly about 99% of the time by both Kiwis and tourists.

No we won’t pretend we’re experts here at New Zealand Unwrapped as we’re not originally from New Zealand but here’s a quick guide to some things that may trip you up – remember, don’t be afraid to ask!

Kapiti coast by Wellington – it’s not ‘kapeeti’, it’s ‘kap-i-te’ coast
The ‘Wh’ in New Zealand place names are generally pronounced as ‘F’ rather than ‘When’ e.g.
Whangarei – pronounce it as “Fain ga ray” according to WikiTravel

Ok, the place names are too difficult for us as well, so let’s get to some more day to day stuff :

Day to Day talk

Kia Ora – hello

Bach – holiday home (pronounced ‘batch’) – can be referred to as Crib in the South Island

Bro – friend

Chilly Bin – cool box for camping / campervan – many uses from beers to your freshly caught fish

Chemist – pharmacy or drug store

Dairy – local convenience store.  Sells day to day foods, newspapers, snacks etc

Jandals – Flip Flops (or Thongs if you’re arriving from Australia)

Maori – indigenous people to New Zealand

Pakeha – non-Maori white person

Sweet as / Choice – that’s great  …often heard as ‘sweet as bro’

Togs – swimming clothes – shorts, swimsuits etc

Tramping – walking and hiking

Wop-wops – very rural location – out of the way, ‘in the sticks’

Food :

Capsicums – peppers

Kumara – sweet potato – there’s a few varieties

Kiwi fruit – yes, you’ll see them everywhere

Feijoa – aromatic and sweet seasonal fruit, looks a bit similar to the Kiwi Fruit to the uninitaited

Yam – another form of sweet potato

I’ll keep adding to this list as I get a bit more exposure, but for now…ask the locals when you land!  Do you think there’s something that should definitely be added here?  Come on, be nice, don’t let other readers get laughed at….I know what it’s like, and my local friend constantly rips me about my pronounciation!

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Backpacking Featured Living in New Zealand Transport

Guide to buying a used backpacking car or campervan in New Zealand

Buying a Backping car, New Zealand Although it may seem crazy for a lot of countries, many long term budget travellers and backpackers in New Zealand buy used cars or campervans (motorhomes or smaller) to get around. There’s a huge choice of vehicles imported from Japan, auto and manual, diesel and petrol, and cars and vans. Optional (but recommended) insurance is cheap and it opens up a lot of unique places to stay on route. Here’s the lowdown to help get the banger of your dreams. (grab a coffee – its a long article!)

Season to Purchase

Many backpackers are dumping cars in their droves at the end of summer or winter and hostel noticeboards are overflowing with motors. If you arrive at this time of year, just before the masses, you’ve a good chance of grabbing a bargain and relieving a traveller of their temporary home before they fly out the following day.

Buy Wisely : Backpacker Cart Mart or Online?

Auckland and Christchurch both have well established backpacker car marts. Although they are well established there are very mixed reports from them often at the extreme viewpoints in both directions. If you buy from them, buy as though you were buying privately with the same checks and don’t be naive (see the later section on background checks).

There are also loads of car markets either catering more towards backpackers, or more for locals.  There’s a list of these at the end of this article.

One big advantage of buying from a backpacker is that you’ll often get everything you need to hit the road included from stoves to seats and I’ve even seen snowboards and boogie boards being thrown into the sale.  Kitting out your car or van with stoves, cutlery, pots and pans could add quite a bit onto your budget (but if you need these things, head to The Warehouse!).

Costs

If you’re lucky you could pick up a car from a few hundred dollars if you arrive at the right time and get lucky, but usually something this cheap could easily cost you the same again or more in the long run.  For $1000-2000 you should be able to pick up a decent car, and $2000 upwards for a van.

Buyback Schemes

You could check out schemes like KiwiBuyBack if you don’t want the hassle of going and selecting a car, and you’ll get 50% of the purchase cost back when you sell it back to the them at the end of your trip.  We’ve not heard any reports about this service (but that doesn’t mean its bad!). If you pick your own car well using this guide it will probably cost you more, but you may save some time and have some come back if you buy a warranty.

Choose Wisely : Skoda or Subaru?

You could pick up a car here from a few hundred dollars, and a van from around $1500 up. If you’re lucky it will be well used, but not abused. If you can afford to splash out a bit more then get more picky, avoid shabby conversions consisting of a sheet of plywood and……well, some screws (although many backpackers are more than happy with this setup and they are the most common). Consider buying a Subaru or Toyota so you can resell to the local market as well as travellers when you’re leaving. Do what I did on my first visit : Choose wisely, buy from a backpacker and sell to a local, and you too could be flying around in a Subaru 4×4 for $2000, using it for 10 weeks, and selling for only $300 less. That’s like renting a car for $30 a week! On my current trip to New Zealand I was hanging around for longer and wanted a bit more luxury so I waited around for a professionally converted Toyota HiAce van with proper units.  Although the price would have been out of reach of most backpackers, I bought the van in Wellington from a local couple who were upgrading, it had low mileage and I’m confident I’ll get most of my money back when selling it in Auckland.

Custom Build

DCRAIG_20100725_186_web If you have had a look around for a camper van and can’t find what you’re looking for and have a bit more time you could consider buying a ‘blank’ van. This is a van that hasn’t been converted in any way such as well serviced ex-tradesmans van and converting yourself, or using a specialist company such as Vantastic Interiors in Auckland.  This may end up being a bit more expensive as you’ll have to buy all the stoves, cutlery etc on top of your costs, but you could end up with a van that’s much easier to sell, and in better condition.  This option is better if you are hanging around a city doing temp work and have time to play with, although some people have managed to convert vans using their downtimes at working at places like WOOF’ing farms which have had wood and equipment to use.  I’d only recommend this if you have an appropriate background.

Background Checks – Don’t Buy A Lemon

Some statistics say 1 in 3 cars in New Zealand have issues with them.  LemonCheck will do a background check on the vehicle for $25 with a registration plate or VIN number.
CarJam will give you a summary history online including irregularities with mileage readings etc and more comprehensive reports from $5 (ownership).

Both of the above services are worth a quick check and can prepare you with questions before you call the seller – e.g. ask them to explain why the odometer has decreased by 30,000km!

WOF, Rego and RUCs

A ‘WOF’ is a 6 monthly Warrant Of Fitness which you need to certify your vehicle as road legal.  A WOF will cost up to $50 plus any work that needs to be done to meet the criteria.

A ‘Rego’ is a registration fee (like road tax in other countries) and the cost varies for petrol and diesel.   Rego’s can be bought in 3 month increments.

’RUC’s are Road User Charges and are only applicable to diesel vehicles. The RUC is around $41 per 1000km over and above the pump prices, almost eliminating the cost saving of diesel (although currently it’s still around 10% cheaper). Buy a vehicle with a long WOF, Rego and RUCs in credit and it’ll save you splashing out over the first few months.

Location – Auckland, Christchurch or Wellington?

Many travellers arrive in Auckland and finish their road trip in Christchurch. Travellers tales say that backpacker cars and vans are generally cheaper in Christchurch, although an Auckland garage owner will of course tell you otherwise. If you arrive in Christchurch just before the end of winter you’re increasing your chances of grabbing that bargain banger.

Reselling your vehicle

When the time comes to leave New Zealand and have the choice, considering where you’ll sell your vehicle.  Many of the same considerations should be made as when you’re buying the vehicle but with some of them reversed.  As an example, if you try to sell at the end of winter in Christchurch you’ll be selling with the rest of the people who have spent a winter season here, and there won’t be many people arriving as most travellers will arrive in Auckland.  The old trade off of supply and demand will be there so you may only get rock bottom prices for you vehicle.  Of course if you follow the advice above you’ll have a better chance of advertising on Trademe etc and sell to locals, especially if you have bought a vehicle that’s in better condition, or a brand like Subaru.

Many people make the mistake of selling at the last minute and hanging around to try and get the best price, or dumping it quickly for peanuts.  This is when splashing out a few hundred extra bucks could make all the difference.  Be realistic about your selling price – you’d rather have 10 people calling you than them thinking it’s overpriced.  Of course if you want to you could buy a banger then end up hanging around Auckland for weeks trying to sell it if that’s what you want.

Insurance

It’s true what you hear on the grapevine – car insurance is optional in New Zealand, but you’d be a bit crazy to scrimp on the cost of this.  There’s a relatively high proportion of uninsured drivers in New Zealand and if you have an accident you could loose all your funds invested in your transport.  The roads here can be a bit different as well and there’s a few strange driving regulations that may catch you out.  You can call around the main insurance companies, but the quickest and easiest way is to check out BBH Insurance which have a tailored policy and can be taken out online.  BBH is the same crowd that has the hostel network so they know what people need and it’s cheap and easy.

Notification Of Sale or Purchase

You must inform the New Zealand Transport Agency about your new purchase within 7 days.  Note that there is very little paperwork for car ownership, which is why the vehicle checks are quite important.  You should complete a form which is available from the New Zealand Post offices with the seller and new owner details, and they will send it off on your behalf.

Where to buy : Car Markets and Online

If you’ve read this far you must be serious and considering purchasing a vehicle for your trip.  Although there are no specific garages mentioned below, as you’d expect there are many around.  Unfortunately many of the garages selling cars are on the outskirts of the big cities making them harder to get to without transport – unless of course you’re going to buy a new Mercedes Benz.  Here’s a good selection of places to start looking :

Hostels

Hostel noticeboards will give you the best selection of used backpackers cars but beware – they may have travelled around New Zealand several times with limited maintenance so ask all the right questions.  Keep looking at them constantly as good ones will be snapped up within hours.  If you stay at a quieter hostel pop over to the big ones like Base and YHA as that’s where most people will advertise.  Some hostels will have specific folders for vehicles for sale rather than place them on a noticeboard.

Nationwide :

Backpacker Board Car Sales allows backpackers to list their cars and vans for sale but you’ll have to keep an eye on it as there’s no automatic alerts available. A new site to us is Backpack Car which had a variety of cars and vans listed when we looked.

Auckland :

  1. DCRAIG_20100725_184_web Backpacker Car Market Victoria Street – just down from the playing fields in an small open air car park across from Victoria Park Market (corner of Hasley St / Gaunt St).  On Saturday morning, this market is geared towards backpackers.  On site inspection services are available.  Get here on Saturday early to get the first viewings and before people try taking their car to Ellerslie the following day.
  2. Ellerslie car mart – harder to get to at Ellerslie race course in SE Auckland.  On every Sunday and geared more towards locals but will have something for everyone. Arrive early from 8am to get the first look as by late morning it will die down and all the good ones will be gone.  On site inspection services available for around $140.
  3. Turners Auctions – You’ll be sharing the viewing with dealers at this one but its still possible to pick something up.  Check online for reports and what stock is coming up.
  4. Backpacker cart market – Just off ‘k-road’.  Very mixed reports on the grapevine but some people love it.  Inspection services available but you may be better off getting an independent check performed.

Christchurch :

  1. Christchurch Car Market – tailored for backpackers and in a central location.  You can also see some cars they have for sale on their site.
  2. Turners Auctions – as above as they have a site in Christchurch as well.
  3. Backpacker Car Market – as above, operated by the same people.

Wellington :

You’re not doing yourself any favours by looking for a car here as there isn’t really a backpacker market for vehicles as such – most people will buy a car in Auckland or Christchurch.  You may get lucky as you’ll still see cars and vans advertised in hostels but you may have to look in the same places as locals.  Some locals park cars for sale beside the pier up from the airport roundabout on Evans Bay – you could try looking there at the weekend if you can get there (#2 bus gets you close and its a nice place for a stroll).  Turners have auctions sites on the outskirts of Wellington.

Online :

This is one of the best places to look for a bigger range and better quality but you will still see cars and camper vans advertised with all gear required for your trip around New Zealand (which could save you a fortune kitting yours out!).

  1. TradeMe – every kiwi’s favourite site.  EBay doesn’t get a look in in New Zealand! Set up alerts if you know what make and model you are looking for and you’ll be emailed as soon as they are advertised.  Some backpackers will also advertise here as well as on noticeboards.
  2. Autotrader  – as it says in the title!  Allows you to set up email alerts.
  3. Sella – classified listings in New Zealand

Links

Backpacker Board Car Sales
Backpack Car – ads for buyers and sellers
TradeMe – New Zealands favourite website
Ellserlie Car Fair, Auckland
Backpacker Car Market – Auckland and Christchurch
Christchurch Car Market
Sella – online ads site
Autotrader
Vantastic Interiors
Turners Auctions
KiwiBuyBack – 50% of your car purchase price back at the end of your trip
BBH Insurance
AA Car Inspections
CarJam – online car history
LemonCheck – online car history
New Zealand Land Transport Agency

We really hope this has given you a comprehensive guide of how to go about looking for your backpacking car or campervan when you arrive in New Zealand.  If you’ve read this far,  it may seem daunting as there is a massive list above but the hostel noticeboards, auctions and Trademe are the best resources – the rest is just to prepare you and help you get the majority of your money back when it’s time to resell.  If you are on the ball and check regularly you’ll get some transport sorted in no time.

If you like this article, or have any further additions that should be made above, please let us know via the comments below.  If you’ve decided buying a car is too much effort, it’s not really but you may want to check out our article on what you need to know about hiring a campervan in New Zealand.

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Backpacking Living in New Zealand

Applying for an IRD (tax number) in New Zealand

Before you start working and getting paid in New Zealand you’ll need to get yourself a tax reference number which is called an IRD number.  Your tax number is issued by the Inland Revenue and is easy to get, assuming you already have a working holiday visa, or other visa that allows you to work.  This is the third in the series of Getting Started in New Zealand.

If you go to New Zealand Post to set up your bank account or anything else you can get, complete and submit an IRD (tax number) at the same time.  The forms are also available from the Inland Revenue (link below).  Before you complete the forms you will need to have the following documents (or their equivalent) :

  • Passport with relevant working visa, and supporting documentation (e.g. residency documentation)
  • Drivers License or original offer of employment

The easiest way to do this is to go to an office of the New Zealand Post as they will check your documentation and send the application off.

It will take around 7-10 days to get your IRD number and a letter will be sent out to the address you provided.  If you have just arrived in New Zealand and are in a hurry, or have moved on (e.g. from a hostel) you can always call them up to see if your number is available earlier.

If you haven’t read them already, you should read our articles about How to Set up Your Bank Account in New Zealand, and Which is The Best Prepaid SIM card for Your Mobile Phone in New Zealand.

Links

IRD Number Applications – New Zealand Inland Revenue

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Backpacking Emigrating Featured Living in New Zealand

Opening a bank account in New Zealand

You’ve arrived off the plane as a backpacker with your working holiday visa, ready for your gap year, or you’ve moved over here as a resident and you need a bank account.  So how hard is it to set up a bank account in New Zealand?  The good news is it’s very easy, and this article will tell you what you need.

There are three things most people need to do as soon as possible after landing in New Zealand :

  • Set up your bank account
  • Get your IRD number
  • Get a SIM card for your mobile phone

It is best to set up your bank account as soon as you can after arriving.  It can take around a week for your bank cards to get sent out so you’d be better starting the process on day one then kick back and explore whilst waiting for your cards.  You will need the following items before setting up your bank account :

  1. Proof of address in New Zealand
  2. Passport and Visa
  3. Another form of ID such as home driving licence or bank card (ideally)
  4. Some cash to deposit (some banks ask you to deposit around $50 to open it)

You don’t generally need to provide a whole financial history like some other western countries.  The first thing you need to do is to get a proof of address document.  Most backpacker hostels will give you a letter confirming where you are staying particularly if it is one of the larger chains like Base.  This proof of address, along with your passport (and accompanying visa) and ideally some other form of ID like a bank card from your home country is pretty much all you need.  If you think you’ll move address before your cards arrive, check that your mail will be held or forwarded.  Depending where you are staying you may need both a physical address and a mailing address e.g. if your accommodation uses a postal box for their mail.

Many banks will ask you to deposit a small amount in your new account when opening it, so you should arrive with some cash in hand.

Main Banks in New Zealand

There are a few main banks in New Zealand, namely Westpac, ANZ, National Bank, BNZ (Bank of New Zealand), TSB and KiwiBank.  KiwiBank is the only one that is truly Kiwi owned so you may get some more smiles from the locals when you present one of their cards for payment.   All banks offer a number of accounts, but only a few are ‘fee free’ which suits most backpackers on a gap year, or travellers on a long term break.  If you are emigrating over here your requirements may be a bit different so you’ll have to do a bit more research.  Bear in mind that we are not financial advisors so the account you select is up to you – this article is just an overview to say it’s not a big deal to be worrying about.

Fee Free Accounts

In October 2010 the only ones we remember that were totally ‘fee free’ were BNZ and KiwiBank.  The good thing about KiwiBank is that they are owned by the same crowd as New Zealand Post so you’ll be able to perform transactions in every town that has a post office which can be a great help if you are travelling around.  If you are applying for your IRD number from Inland Revenue you can also do this at the same place you open your account, so it makes things a bit easier.

Note that although we use the term ‘fee free’ you’ll always find some charges that relate to your account from going overdrawn etc etc.  One notable charge that you may not be used to, particularly if you are arriving from the UK, is that if you withdraw cash from a different bank’s ATM or cash machine you may be charged a fee of up to a few dollars.  Due to this, if you’re on the move it pays to select which bank you open an account with carefully.  If you use KiwiBank you’ll also find that if you use telephone banking more than a few times a month you may get charged for it.

EFTPOS / Visa Debit

EFTPOS (Electronic Funds Transfer Point of Sale) is the most common method of paying for goods in New Zealand – so much so you may start to think it’s almost a cashless society!  You can pay using an EFTPOS for most goods and there’s not usually a restriction on lower limits so you can use your card just to buy a bottle of milk from the dairy.  Some outlets may give you ‘cash out’ at time of purchase to save you finding an ATM – ask them before they charge your card.  Getting cash out can be handy if you are in smaller places with less cash machines.

Note that some banks are starting to offer a Visa Debit enabled card which does EFTPOS as well.  This is a but more usable as you can make purchases online using one of these instead of using your home bank or credit card, and can use them abroad during that little side trip to the Pacific Islands you have planned!

Online / Internet Banking

Most banks in New Zealand have a comprehensive online banking solution available.  If you have any specific requirements check what the bank is offering you.

International Money Transfers

If you are transferring money from overseas to kick start your funds, ensure you ask for the correct details you need to be able to transfer cash.  This process can be really easy – as an example it only took 3 days to transfer cash from the UK to New Zealand when we set up our bank account so you can go begging to your parents as soon as you get your bank number and if you’re lucky you’ll have some entertainment money by the weekend!

Armed with the above information you’ve got all you need to be able to set up your bank account in New Zealand.  If you are travelling with visa organisations you may be able to get one set up in advance, but it’s so easy it’s not a big deal.  Larger hostels like Base will be able to give you some more information on arrival as to what the current deals are as they have job and information desks in house in the larger cities.  Now that you know what you need to set up your New Zealand bank account, have a read of our article about the Best Prepaid mobile SIM card for New Zealand.

If you have any information to add to this, or know of any top tips we’ve left out, please let us know using the comments below.

Categories
Costs Living in New Zealand Money Saving

Book Shopping in New Zealand

In New Zealand, you just don’t get the same choice of books as in some countries throughout the world so many locals order online from international websites.  There are however some great book shops here and some great specialist stores specialising in specific subjects, particularly in Auckland and Wellington, but the costs can be high due to the lack of demand (relatively low population) and geographical location.  More specialist books can be harder to find on the bookshelf, particularly if you are looking for IT, medical or other specialist books.

If you’re living here and can’t find what you want, or can’t stand the prices, it can often work out cheaper to order online from the UK or the States.

The most popular options are to browse and order from the following sites :

Amazon.co.uk

Fishpond (New Zealand based)

Book Depository – access UK prices with free worldwide delivery!

The BookDepository

From the above two, it appears by the delivery times of more specialist items that Fishpond can order internationally as well, so it’s worth doing a currency comparison of the overall cost as it may be cheaper ordering direct from The Book Depository.

Of course you can always browse through TradeMe and pick up some second hand books as well.  Note that if you are ordering from overseas your purchase may be subject to import duties and fees.

Do you know of other sources of books, or book shops you would recommend in New Zealand?  If so, please let us know, particularly if there is a Kiwi based supplier we’ve failed to mention!

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Backpacking Costs Living in New Zealand

Typical Costs in New Zealand

Universal Currency ConverterTypical costs for New Zealand are not too different from other ‘western’ countries – the largest differentiator to your home country will be the exchange rate.  As this was typed the New Zealand dollar is quite strong which means a trip for the typical European or American visitor can be a bit more than anticipated.  Here’s some sample costs for typical everyday goods :

Milk – 2 litres – $5.50
Coffee – $3-4
Cinema ticket : $15  (There’s sometimes deals on a Monday or before 6pm in cities)
Beer in bar : $6
Inter Island Ferry Ticket : From $55 foot passenger, $150 per car – more for vans etc (one way prices)
Meal : $10 budget takeaway (but decent – e.g. Malaysian, Thai, Curry) to $$$ for full blown venue
Car Hire : From $30 per day
Campervan hire : From $30 per day off season, typical $80 high season
Room rent in Wellington : from $130 a week to $$$
Diesel – 1 litre : $1.18  (NB : you have to add the cost of Road User Charges – See Transport category)
Petrol – 1 litre : $1.88

NB : As this was typed (October 2010) one New Zealand Dollar was worth about :
75 cents US (so add just less than a third to get your USD price)
47 pence UK (so divide by 2 to get your UK price)
55 cents Euro (so divide by 2 and add a bit to get your Euro price)

See the Universal Currency Converter for the latest rates : Universal Currency Converter

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Backpacking Featured Food and Drink Living in New Zealand Money Saving

Everyday shopping – Where to Shop in New Zealand

I always find shopping in a new country is interesting.  In New Zealand there’s a whole load of interesting foods from feijoa fruits to kumara, and there can be different names used than what you may use back home.  For everyday shopping in New Zealand there are only a few large chains around, but there are many boutique delis, markets and asian supermarkets to get something a little bit different.  Food allergies are well catered for compared to other countries, especially allergies such as coeliacs and gluten free eating.

Other articles will concentrate more on specialised food shopping but for now I’ll introduce you to the main places that you’ll encounter during a trip to New Zealand, focussing on everyday foodstuff and household wares.

Pak’n’Save

paknsave-logo Pak’n’Save is the place to shop for budget foods throughout New Zealand.  If you drive past one you can’t miss the big, yellow warehouses.  Pak’n’Save is the equivalent of Lidl and Aldi’s in Europe however it doesn’t have quite the same low cost feel and you’ll get big brands here as well.  Look out for special deals and you can grab a bottle of wine from around $6 at weekends.  Expect no frills in presentation but you’ll get most of the everyday stuff you need here, as well as some household goods.

New World

new-world-logo-new-zealandKiwis are often keen to buy local and help the local economy and New World makes a big thing about being 100% Kiwi Owned.  New World has stores throughout the country and in bigger cities you may find smaller ‘metro’ stores to cater for the office workers lunching and on their way home.  In the store they’ll offer a bit more of a quality selection and you’ll find some pretty decent deli counters in some of them.

Woolworths, Foodtown, Countdown

woolworths-logo-new-zealand countdown-logo-new-zealand foodtown-logo-new-zealand

These shops have all been lumped together as they are all owned by the same company in New Zealand.  They are all much the same (although I’m sure the owners wouldn’t say that) and offer a slightly more upmarket selection than Pak’n’Save.

The Warehouse

warehouse-logo-new-zealand Last but certainly not least is what could probably be classed as many Kiwi’s favourite all round shopping location : The Warehouse.  Although it’s not mainly a place to shop for food, it does have some food products but mostly snacks.  Outside of food, you can get pretty much everything else you want from households wares, bedding, car accessories, clothes, gardening and outdoor equipment, and sports equipment, all for pretty cut throat prices.  You’ll bound to visit one of these when in New Zealand if you are a resident or independent traveller as it can help kit you out with everything from cheap t-shirts, to fitting out your camper van with stoves etc.

Summary

Although some of these large warehouse type outlets have no doubt impacted many a local shop when they’ve arrived in a location they don’t have help out providing kiwis and visitors cheaper everyday prices for a number of goods.

Most of the stores currently offer fuel discounts for petrol and diesel if you spend over a certain amount in one transaction.  These can usually be used at a number of has stations however some Pak’n’Save stores that have on site gas stations will limit their use to that store only.

Look out for other articles on the site which will let you know about other shopping places like farmers markets where you can further save money, and buy local.  Is there anywhere you shop in New Zealand that you’d like to highlight here?  If so you should leave a comment below to let others know.

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Backpacking Featured Living in New Zealand Money Saving

Entertainment Book – dining and entertainment offers throughout New Zealand

entertainment-book-logo The Entertainment book is a bit of a institution in New Zealand and can be used to get 2 for 1 budget deals, discounts and other offers for dining, activities, hotels and entertainment.  Offers are available throughout the country, particularly in the well populated locations such as Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Invercargill, Queenstown, Waikato and Wellington. The Entertainment book is sold through fund raising groups and raised over $5m in 2009 for groups throughout Australia and New Zealand. 

As the book is sold throughout fundraising groups it is not so well known amongst travellers such as a backpackers or working holiday visa holders, but if you are basing yourself in a town or city for a while it is still relevant for you, and could let you splash out and treat yourself without breaking the bank. Note that the Entertainment book has specific editions for each area so ensure you purchase the correct one.

The main focus of the book is giving discounts at restaurants, cafes and activity centres but the offers spread for every budget ranging from the luxurious Logan Brown restaurant and cafes like Ernesto in Wellington.  More ‘run of the mill’ places like  McDonalds are also included and you can get discounts for  activities such as indoor climbing at Hangdogs.  NB : All these examples are taken from the Wellington Entertainment book but there is just as much variety in other locations.

The book costs $60 but you can make that up easily with just a couple of uses.  I’ve had a copy for only three weeks and have more than got my purchase price back using it for indoor climbing, and a couple of meals.  The book is best used if you have have a friend to share it with, as the best deals are two for one meals so unless you can eat a lot, bring along someone else!  Most vouchers are restricted to one location, however places like McDonalds can be redeemed throughout the country, so you can treat yourself to a breakfast when you’re on the road.

If you know someone who already has an entertainment book, regardless of the region ask them to buy a copy for you as they’ll get it for a discounted rate.  Although I’ve only mentioned New Zealand in this article, the Entertainment book is available in a number of editions for use in Australia as well.  Note the book is valid from June one year, until June the next year, so don’t buy it in May and expect to get the full use of it.

If you want a copy of the Entertainment book you won’t find it readily available in bookshops as it’s sold through fundraising groups, so befriend a local, or check our the Entertainment book’s website to buy one.