New Zealand has three official languages: English, Maori and sign language. English is the language of the conference.

Passports/Visas

See Visa Information page.

Letters of invitation

If you require a letter of invitation in order to secure a visa, you must first register and pay all applicable registration fees. Once all fees have been paid, an email requesting a letter of invitation should be sent to the conference organisers on sga2021@confer.co.nz. The 16th SGA Biennial Meeting, its organising committee and the SGA bear no legal responsibility for any visiting SGA delegate.

Vaccinations

No vaccination certificates are required. There are no snakes or dangerous wild animals in New Zealand.

Time

New Zealand ’s time zone is GMT + 12 hours. 

Weather / Climate

Rotorua’s weather is generally fine, with a lot of warm sunshine in the summer and clear crisp days in the winter.  In November, the weather in Rotorua can be quite unpredictable, with rain on approximately half of the month’s days. Monthly precipitation at this time of year is around 140 mm. Temperatures average 15oC during the day and 5ºC at night. Come prepared for changes in weather and temperature, especially if you will be doing any outdoors activities. A raincoat and/or umbrella is a good idea!

Additional information available here.

Money/Currency

The unit of currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), which is divided into 100 cents. Money-changing facilities are available in international airports, at banks and in most hotels.

Cash denominations are:
Coins: $2, $1, 50c, 20c, 10c
Notes: $100, $50, $20, $10, $5

All purchases in New Zealand are subject to 15% GST (Goods and Services Tax). This is usually included in published retail prices for all goods and services. There is no system for a refund of GST incurred by international travellers.

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Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely used in New Zealand, and all major credit cards are accepted.

Business Hours

As a general rule, business hours are between 9.00 am and 5.30 pm, Monday to Friday. Many shops are open on Saturday and Sunday. In Rotorua, souvenir shops are typically open 7 days and to late in the evenings.

Banks

Trading banks are open Monday to Friday 9.00 am to 4.30 pm. There are over 3,500 Automatic teller machines (ATMs) in New Zealand, accessible 24 hours a day, and these accept most cards.

Travellers cheques can be cashed at banks, and also at bureaux de change, hotels and some shops.

Electricity & Power Supply

Electricity supply is 230/240 volts, 50 hertz AC (USA and Canada voltage is 110 volts). Most hotels and motels provide 110 volt AC sockets (rated at 20 watts).

If travelling from countries that do not have the same power plug as New Zealand, you will need an adaptor with an angled flat two or three-point power plug to connect to the power supply. New Zealand and Australia (and some parts of Asia) use the same type of three-pin plug (phase, neutral and earth). Adaptors are available from international airports and some electric shops. 

Tipping

Tipping is not expected in New Zealand, but is accepted for exceptional service in some restaurants and bars.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited within all enclosed public spaces including all licenced premises. Many hotels have a designated smoking area, otherwise smokers must go outside to smoke.

Mobile phones

Travellers from other countries will need to set up international roaming with their network provider if they wish to bring their own phones. Alternatives are to rent a local phone or purchase a pre-pay phone for use while in New Zealand.

Wifi

Many hotels, motels and cafe's offer complimentary WiFi internet access. Find out more here.

Driving in New Zealand

New Zealanders drive on the left hand side of the road. The speed limit is generally 100 km/hour on the open road and 50 km/hour in urban areas. New Zealand's tourist routes are of a generally high standard and the main roads are sealed. All roads, including those in rural locations, are signposted. Remember to drive on the left!

International Driving Licences and Permits

You can legally drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months if you have either a current driver's licence from your home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP). In New Zealand all drivers, including visitors from other countries, must carry their licence or permit at all times when driving. You will only be able to drive the same types of vehicles you are licensed to drive in your home country. The common legal age to rent a car in New Zealand is 21 years.

Make sure your driver's licence is current. If your licence is not in English, you must bring an English translation with you or obtain an IDP. Contact your local automobile club for further details about obtaining a translation or an IDP.