From lush vineyards and wild coastlines to sky-piercing mountains and pristine glacial lakes, Canterbury is a region of remarkable contrasts and a haven for those seeking incredible scenery and adventure.

Fiordland’s National Parks’ still lakes, tricking waterfalls and striking mountains set the scene for calm and contemplation.

Fresh, gourmet food & wine; rugged coastline, and an art deco city—you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views in every direction. Blessed with fertile soils and a warm, temperate climate, Hawke’s Bay is among New Zealand’s leading producers of wine.

The subtropical Northland region of New Zealand stretched upwards from Auckland to the very top of New Zealand. Take a journey along the Twin Coast Discovery Highway to see diverse coastlines, marine reserves, and ancient forests.

In Rotorua, your clients can get to know New Zealand’s fascinating Māori culture, explore dramatic landscapes and find space to recharge in the region’s natural hot pools.

A rural area with an off-the-beaten-track charm, Wairarapa offers travelers a wide range of experiences. Its five characterful townships surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and rolling farmland make it home to some of New Zealand’s leading artisan food producers and wine-makers.

Located in the spectacular Alps of the South Island, visitors from around the world are drawn to the Wanaka region by its outstanding beauty. The stunning mountain and lakeside setting and proximity to Mt. Aspiring National Park make it the ultimate space to explore.

People
New Zealanders, or Kiwis, as they call themselves, are among the friendliest people on earth.

Language
English is the most common language in New Zealand; however, Maori is also an official language.

Currency
The official currency is the Australian dollar (AUD), which is divided into 100 cents

Weather
Australia experiences mild temperatures year-round. The northern states are typically warm tropical and the southern states are cooler and sometimes snowy.

December to February is Australia’s summer and wet season in the tropical north. The Winter (June to August) is commonly temperate with sunny days in the northern states and snow in the southern mountain regions

Health Requirements
Vaccinations are not required unless travelers are coming from, or have visited a yellow fever-infected country within six days of arrival.

Visa Requirements
A tourist visa – usually issued as an electronic Travel Authority (ETA) – is required for all US citizens traveling to Australia for a stay no longer than three months. Possession of a confirmed and onward or return ticket to a place where entry is authorized and sufficient funds to show support is required. Conditions apply to approval – so please ask your destination specialist for details.

Tipping and Porterage
Tipping is not as entrenched a custom as is in the US, however, generous donations by American visitors have changed the expectations of many in the industry. Generally, a 10% tip at finer restaurants is sufficient, and taxi drivers only expect a top if they assist with luggage.

Credit Cards
All major credit cards are accepted in Australia, particularly MasterCard, Visa, and American Express.

Electrical Appliances
240 volts, 50 cycles A.C. is the standard. Most hotels have a 110-volt 20-watt A.C. outlet for electric shavers only in the bathroom. A converter from volts is required for all other appliances as well as an adapter to suit South Pacific plug shapes.

Water
Drinking water in urban Australia is safe for drinking from the tap or faucet. In rural areas, it is suggested that water be treated before drinking or using bottled water.

More information can be found on the New Zealand government website.