Currency

New Zealand’s unit of currency is the New Zealand dollar (NZ$).

• • • • • Coins have values of 10, 20 and 50 cents, $1 and $2;
        • Notes have values of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100.

There is no restriction on the amount of foreign currency that can be brought into or taken out of New Zealand. However, every person who carries more than NZ$10,000 in cash in or out of New Zealand is required to complete a Border Cash Report.

Foreign currency can easily be exchanged at banks, some hotels and Bureau de Change kiosks, which are found at international airports and most city centres.

Exchange Rates

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand provides a monthly online summary of the New Zealand Dollar’s average value against the US Dollar, the Pound, the Australian Dollar, the Yen and the Euro.

Banking

Banks are generally open from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. Automated Teller Machines (ATM) are widely available at banks, along main shopping streets and in shopping malls. All major credit cards can be used. International credit cards and ATM cards will work as long as they have a four-digit PIN encoded. Check with your bank before leaving home.

Goods and Services Tax

All goods and services are subject to a 15 percent Goods and Services Tax (GST) included in the displayed price. Visitors cannot claim this tax back. However when a supplier ships a major purchase to a visitor’s home address the GST will not be charged.

How Much Will It Cost?

Here is a general guide of what you can expect to pay in New Zealand for a few common items: Approximately.

• • • • • A hotel breakfast NZ$10 – $25
        • Dinner (3-course, no wine) NZ$25 – $50
        • Lunch snack/sandwich NZ$5 – $10
        • Cafe lunch NZ$10 – $15
        • A postcard stamp to anywhere abroad NZ$1.90
        • Big Mac Hamburger NZ$4.90
        • Cappuccino NZ$3.50 – $4.00

Tipping and Service Charges

Tipping in New Zealand is not obligatory – even in restaurants and bars. However, tipping for good service or kindness is at the discretion of the visitor. Hotels and restaurants in New Zealand do not add service charges to their bills.