Chill Out Lounge

Transport/Tours Getting around New Zealand is easy! For maximum independence, rent a car or campervan. For economy and a social experience, get on board a train or bus. Whichever way you go, sooner or later you’ll have to cross the ‘ditch’ – ferries depart regularly across Cook Strait between Wellington and Picton. Most of the major car and campervan hire companies have desks at airports, ferry terminals and city depots throughout the country. If you want to rent a car, bear in mind that car hire companies generally do not rent to those under 21 years of age. You will need to hold a valid licence from your home country (including a translation if the licence is not in English). Make sure you advise the car hire company if you’re travelling between the North and South Islands, as many companies give you the option of dropping off your rental vehicle in one island and picking up another vehicle on the other island. If you’d rather leave the driving to someone else, make the most of the extensive network of national air, train, coach and ferry services. Public transport is convenient as well as easy on your wallet – great if you’re on a budget! Or check out the great range of package tours on offer, as well as companies that specialise in custom made-to-measure itineraries. Tour Operator When you’re planning your holiday allow time to check out other activities. A great way to get the most out of your time is to enlist the help of a tour company. There are great package tours available, as well as specialist companies expert in putting together snow-specific packages. Personalised plans arranged for your convenience – it’s the perfect mix. New Zealand Adventure Specialists 04 939 9323 www.nzadventure.com SkiMax Aus freephone 1300 136 997 www.skimax.com.au Ski Express 0800 650 333 www.skiexpress.co.nz Value Tours Aus freephone 1300 361 322 www.valuetours.com.au

On The Road
New Zealand traffic drives on the left-hand side. The speed limit is 50 kph [30 mph] in urban areas and 100 kph [60 mph] on the open road. It’s unwise to speed because police patrol the highways and speed cameras are used. Seatbelts must be worn at all times. Motorcyclists and their passengers must wear helmets. There are strict laws on drinking and driving and the best advice is simply don’t drink and drive. Check out http://nzta.govt.nz/licence/residents-visitors/driving-nz.html before hitting the roads.

Play If you’re looking for a fantastic outdoor playground, you’ve come to the right place! New Zealand is known around the world for the awesome range of activities it’s got on offer, from the rush of bungy jumping or jet boating to the indulgent pleasure of wine-tasting or soaking your body at a hot mineral spa. And New Zealand’s temperate climate lets you head up the mountain for a day of fun in the snow and back down again at the end of the day to enjoy a round of golf or take a lakeside walk in the late afternoon sun. For a taste of the activities available, check out the Play listings in each of the regional sections.

Stay Finding the right place to stay is an essential part of planning your New Zealand ski or snowboard holiday. You’ll find accommodation to suit every wallet and every taste: chic hotels and totally unique luxury lodges; comfortable motels; charming lodges and bed & breakfasts; and cheap and cheerful hostels. Luxury lodges offer an unforgettable escape from the everyday. You’ll find them in spectacular natural settings throughout New Zealand. To experience one (or just to dream) visit www.lodgesofnz.co.nz. Hotels and resorts come in all styles, including major chains such as Accor, Hilton, Hyatt and InterContinental, and a full range of internationally popular medium-priced hotels offer a consistent standard of services and facilities. Also check out the huge range of small or boutique hotels that are memorable for their individuality. For maximum independence – perfect if you’re travelling with a group of friends or family – try self-contained and serviced accommodation such as motels, motor inns and apartments. On the other hand, guest and hosted options such as bed & breakfasts and lodge-type accommodation allow visitors to experience a real connection with local New Zealanders. Budget travellers are well served by over 500 backpackers and hostels throughout the country offering a great social experience at unbeatable value. In New Zealand many camping grounds also feature quality budget accommodation in cabins or motel-type rooms, with or without private bathrooms. Or for the ultimate in self-contained convenience you could rent your own campervan and hit the road!