Location: Lake Taupo, New Zealand
Capital: Wellington
Official Language: English, Maori
Population: 4,180.841 (Est. 2007)

Situated in the Southern Hemisphere in the southwest Pacific Ocean, New Zealand is comprised of two major and several lesser islands. New Zealand’s two main islands cover about 103, 735 square miles making it roughly the same size as Colorado or Japan.

The country boasts breathtaking landscapes, steaming volcanoes, panoramic coastlines, lush rainforests and expansive mountain chains which run North and South. New Zealand is one of the world’s least populated countries and the ideal outdoor playground location for active individuals and adventurers. Its natural splendor offers a perfect haven for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Currency
New Zealand's unit of currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Coins have values of 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, $1 and $2; notes have values of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100. Visit www.xe.com for current exchange rates. ATM machines offer the best exchange rate, and accept all U.S bank- issued cards. All major credit cards are accepted. It is best to contact your credit card company in advance of your trip and alert them to your travels.

Time
New Zealand is one of the first places in the world to see the new day, 12 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time). In summer New Zealand uses ‘daylight saving’, with clocks put forward one hour to GMT+13. Daylight saving begins on the first Sunday in October and ends on the third Sunday of the following March, when clocks are put back to GMT+12.

Electricity
Electricity is supplied throughout New Zealand at 230/240 volts, 50 hertz. Most hotels and motels provide 110 volt ac sockets (rated at 20 watts) for electric razors only. For all other equipment, an adapter/converter is necessary, unless the item has a multi-voltage option. Please note that power outlets only accept flat 3 or 2-pin plugs, depending on whether an earth connection is fitted.

Water
There is plenty of water of an excellent drinking standard.

Climate
The north of New Zealand is subtropical and the south more moderate. The warmest months are December, January and February, and the coldest June, July and August. In summer, the average maximum temperature ranges between 20-30c (68-86f) and in winter between 10-15c (50-59f).

Communication
The region is very well developed in terms of IT networks and telephone communications. The international access code is 64.

Transportation
Self-driving holidays are one, if not the most, relaxing ways of enjoying New Zealand's landscape. Many of the roads are scenic and traffic is low when compared to international standards. Although distances may seem short, it is important not to underestimate driving times, as roads often include hilly or winding terrain, which slow down your journey.

If you're used to driving in the city, you should take care when driving on the open country roads.
• In New Zealand, all motorists drive on the left-hand side of the road.
• All road distances are measured in kilometers.
• When turning left, give way (yield) to traffic crossing or approaching from your right.
• When the traffic light is red, you must stop. There is a no left turn rule as in North America.
• The speed limit on the open road is 100km/h (approx 60 mph). In urban areas the speed limit is 50km/h.
• Drivers and passengers must wear seat belts at all times, in both front and rear seats.
• Make sure that you have plenty of sleep before a long drive. Take regular breaks - one every two hours and when you feel sleepy.
• Do not drink alcohol before driving in New Zealand - drinking and driving laws are strictly enforced.

Restaurants
New Zealand's 'Pacific Rim' cuisine style takes its inspiration from regions and countries such as Europe, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Polynesia, Japan and Vietnam. This unique blend of influences has created a mouth-watering range of flavors and food available from cafes and restaurants nationwide.

For dishes that have a distinctly New Zealand style look out for lamb, pork and venison; salmon, crayfish, Bluff oysters, paua (abalone), mussels and scallops; kumara (sweet potato); kiwifruit and tamarillo; and pavlova, our national dessert, made from meringue and lashings of fresh whipped cream topped with fresh fruit or berries.

While the main centers support a few elegant, silver-service restaurants, the trend is towards more relaxed cafe-bar dining. There is a wide variety of international food available including Japanese, Indian, Halal, Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Malaysian, and Thai. There are more than 900 Asian restaurants throughout New Zealand.

Links
New Zealand Tourism

Lake Taupo Tourism

Ironman New Zealand