The New Zealand Business Travel Guide has an array of valuable travel information to assist business travellers. The travel guide contains visa information, facts on New Zealand, business customs, useful tips and other resources. An understanding of other cultures, languages and local customs can be of great importance to business travellers and give a real advantage to ensuring a successful business trip.
New Zealand has an advanced and developed economy with a number of business opportunities. Major trading partners include neighbour Australia and in recent years the country has increased its trade links with its south east Asian neighbours. New Zealand is a multicultural, multiracial and home to a number of ethic groups. The country has a variety of landscapes including beaches, mountains, thermal springs, lakes and a range of flora and fauna some of which is unique to the country. Famous attractions include The Bay of Islands, Milford Sound, Rotorua, The Sky Tower, Tongariro National Park and Fiorland National Park.
New Zealand Guide
Quick Facts on New Zealand
New Zealand Travel Advice
Visa Requirements
Business Customs and Etiquette
Travel Advice and Tips
Public Holidays
New Zealand Map
New Zealand Weather & Climate
Quick Facts on New Zealand
Country: New Zealand
Capital: Wellington
Currency: New Zealand Dollar (1 Dollar = 100 cents)
Population: 4.5 Million (UN, 2012)
Area total: 268,680 sq km
Languages: English, Maori
Time Zone: GMT +12
Daylight Saving Details: Starts in early October until late March
Electricity: 230V 50Hz
Dialling Code: 64
GDP: USD 185bn (World Bank, 2013)
Religion: Predominately Christian
Political System: Constitutional Monarchy
Internet Domain: .nz
New Zealand Travel Advice
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office offers travellers useful advice when travelling to New Zealand. You can find more information on entry requirements for New Zealand, advice on local laws and customs, health considerations, useful tips on safety and security and the address and contact details of the British High Commission in New Zealand. The information is regularly updated making it a good resource for both business and leisure travellers when looking for the latest travel advice and information on New Zealand. For more information please see: New Zealand Travel Advice
Visa Requirements
No visa requirement for nationals of the UK, many European countries, Canada, USA and others, for short term visits. Visa requirements are subject to change with changes in requirements and rules for further information please see: New Zealand High Commission UK
Business Customs and Etiquette
Business dress is conservative with suits worn. The usual greeting is with a handshake and a smile, it is advisable to address people correctly with their honorific title first and wait for your host to initiate first names. Appointments are usually necessary for business meetings and meetings over lunch are a popular way of doing business. Punctuality is important for meetings, honestly is sought after and a direct communication style is used. People here are known for their sense of humour and it is an endearing quality that is sought in others too.
Meetings tend to be relaxed but note they are serious and are likely to involve little small talk with business matters being discussed. It is important to maintain eye contact when speaking, respect personal space and present a valid, solid presentation based on well research facts and figures. Business people here are interested in what you can deliver not grand claims. The negotiating process can take some time to conclude. Business practices and protocols are similar to that in most western countries, visitors may notice New Zealander's are more informal, relaxed and friendlier than is the norm for western countries.
Travel Advice and Tips
Most trips to New Zealand for both business visitors and tourists take place each year without incident or undue concern. It is important to beware of pick pockets and bag snatchers particularly in busy areas. There have been incidents of car crime, no valuables should be left in vehicles. Do not show valuables in public and ensure they are put away in a safe place. You should always remain vigilant and alert to your surroundings and environment.
When travelling around New Zealand it is worth remembering climatic conditions can change quickly and become hazardous, if you are going on a trip to a remote area or are taking part in any activities it is recommended that you leave a journey plan/itinerary with someone else and let them know what time you are expected back. This means you have someone who can help and alert authorities should you encounter any unforeseen difficulties.
Travel Checklist: See our Packing & Holiday Checklist containing useful tips and reminders to ensure you have everything you will need on your trip.
Travel Vaccinations: It is recommended you check with your GP for up to date advice on whether you require any travel vaccinations up to eight weeks before you travel. For more information and advice on travel vaccinations please see the NHS Fit for Travel website.
Tipping: Is not widespread in New Zealand, taxi fares can be rounded up a few dollars and a few dollars can be given to porters. In the more upmarket restaurants and hotels if a service charge is not put in, a 10% tip would be appreciated.
Hours of Business:
For Businesses:
08.30/09.00 to 17.00 Monday to Friday
For Shops
09.00 to 17.30 Monday to Friday
For Banks:
09.30 to 16.30 Monday to Friday
09.30 to 17.00 Fridays
NOTE: Many shops and supermarkets in New Zealand open for longer hours such as 09.00 to 20.00 and later in some areas, some supermarkets are open 7 days.
Public Holidays
Public Holidays (2015):
January 1: New Year
February 6: Waitangi Day / New Zealand Day
April 3: Good Friday
April 6: Easter Monday
Apr 25: ANZAC Day
June 1: Queen’s Birthday
October 26: Labour Day
December 25: Christmas Day
December 26: Boxing Day.
New Zealand Map
Map of Auckland, New Zealand
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Related Resources
New Zealand Weather & Climate
New Zealand's location in the southern hemisphere means it has seasons that are opposite to those in Europe and North America. New Zealand as a ocean temperate climate ensuring it is a destination that can be visited throughout the year. Within the country there are variances, the north has subtropical weather with more temperate conditions prevalent in the south. The country rarely has extremes in heat or cold conditions although the most popular times to visit are in summer (November to March) and autumn (March and April).
Lightweight cotton and linen clothing can be warn for most of the year, rain coats are advisable especially in the rain forest areas. Visitors should be prepared for a range of weather as elements of all four seasons may be experienced in one day. Additional layers and warmer clothing is required in the winter with the cooler mornings and evenings.
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.
