When to go
New Zealand is a country that can be discovered throughout the year in a way that meets the traveler's expectations, but travelers tend to prefer visiting during the summer rather than the winter. In fact, the months from December to February correspond to the high season during the summer, while June and August are the winter season. Make your choice based on whether you prefer beaches or skiing, and don't forget that the quieter off-seasons can be among the most spectacular.Entry requirements
Visitors from France, Canada, Belgium and Switzerland do not need a tourist visa for a stay in New Zealand of less than three months. In effect, one is provided when you present your return airline ticket. Nevertheless, the authorities can demand proof of funds necessary to support yourself in the country in the sum of NZ$ 1,000 per month (or NZ $400 per month if you are staying with someone else).Health advise
No vaccines are required to enter New Zealand. On the other hand, the country has the world' highest skin cancer rate due to its geographic location beneath the hole in the ozone layer. As such, it is important to protect yourself from the sun and to use a sunscreen with a high protection factor.Airline tickets
The average price of a plane ticket is €1,300, but this can vary between airlines and prices can range from €1,000 to €2,500!Time difference
New Zealand is on the other side of the world from Western Europe and therefore the time difference is substantial. It is twelve hours ahead of Central European Time in the European winter and ten hours ahead during the European summer. This means that, between October and March, when it is midday in New Zealand, it is midnight in France, and between April and September, when it is midday in New Zealand, it is 2 a.m. in France.Language
In New Zealand, English is the main spoken language. Compared to the English used in Great Britain or the United States, New Zealanders have a stronger accent that can be very hard to understand. Kiwis speak very quickly and often don't articulate very clearly at all! The second language is Maori, but it is only used by Maoris themselves.Relevant contacts
French Embassy in Wellington
34-42 Manners Street, Wellington 6142
Tel : (+64 4) 384 25 55
Website: http://www.ambafrance-nz.org/
E-mail: information.wellington-amba@diplomatie.gouv.fr
Embassy of New Zealand
103, rue de Grenelle
75007 Paris
France
Te : +33 (0) 1 45 01 43 43
Website: http://www.nzembassy.com/fr/france
E-mail: embassy.nz.fr@gmail.com
Phone and internet connection
International telephone dialing code +64
Internet access is available in all types of accommodation, and in many cafés, bars and restaurants, and free access is available from many libraries.
