Visa & More to Know Before Booking Flights to New Zealand

Britons travelling to New Zealand must be aware of the important information that concerns the different aspects of country’s entry requirements before booking flights to New Zealand.

New Zealand makes for an exciting and exquisite holiday destination. People from all corners of the world book flights to New Zealand to experience its varied charm. The captivating New Zealand cities like Auckland and Christchurch are the reasons why cheap tickets on flights to New Zealand are one of the most wanted air travel commodities. Especially among Britons, New Zealand holds a special place as a tourist destination.

However, before splurging money on airfares to the beautiful nation of New Zealand, one should be well informed on crucial areas like visa, passport, health and safety.

Visa Requirements

• New Zealand’s immigration policies can be termed as ‘strict,’ particularly in the area of employment. British passport holders can visit New Zealand for up to six months without a visitor visa, provided they satisfy various requirements as put forth by an Immigration Officer.
• British citizens need to produce evidence of their right to reside permanently in the UK. Additionally, Britons must have an onward ticket. For detailed information on the documents and proofs required at immigration, travellers must contact the New Zealand High Commission in London.

New Zealand High Commission, New Zealand House, 80 Haymarket, London SW1Y 4TQ ,United Kingdom

Passport

• British passport holders must ensure that their passport is valid for one month beyond the date of expiry of their visa in New Zealand. As British nationals are entitled to a six month visa-free stay, they should ensure that their passport is valid for at least one month beyond the date of visa-free stay. It is important to note Britons who wish to get their passports renewed can get it done only at the British High Commission in Wellington.

Travelling with Children

• Visitors travelling alone with children may be asked to furnish documents establishing parental responsibility. For information on exactly what might be needed at immigration, one can get in touch with the New Zealand High Commission in London.

Health

• It is best to seek medical advice before booking flights to New Zealand and make sure that all appropriate vaccinations are up to date. NHS Direct can offer you information on vaccinations requirements for New Zealand.
• There is a reciprocal agreement between Britain and New Zealand that enables the citizens of either country to enjoy the benefits of the National Health Services of the other country if one is a permanent or temporary resident. Even with the reciprocal agreement between the two countries, British travellers are advised to obtain their travellers’ health insurance along with their cheap flights to New Zealand.
• According to research, asthma patients are more at risk of an attack in New Zealand. Asthma sufferers are thus suggested to be suitably prepared.
• Due to its location, the ozone layer over New Zealand is thinner than elsewhere. The sunburn times are shorter than in the UK, thus making it essential to wear hats or caps when outdoors and to apply a high factor sun block.

Natural Disasters

• New Zealand lies in a seismic zone and is subject to earthquakes. British travellers to the country are advised to follow the advice of local authorities in the unfortunate event of the natural disaster.
• British visitors have been involved in numerous tragic accidents in New Zealand, including extreme sporting accidents. Britons who intend to take part in extreme sport activities must make sure that the company is well renowned in the industry and they have a comprehensive insurance cover.
• Weather conditions in some areas of the country are quite tricky, so make sure that you are well informed of regional weather forecasts. Local tourist authorities must be consulted before setting out for a visit to remote areas.

Local Laws & Customs

• Importation of illegal drugs carries a punishment of up to 8 – 12 years’ imprisonment in New Zealand.
• New Zealand maintains a tradition of tolerance towards homosexuality but there have been stray incidents of homophobic related crimes in the country. Gay and lesbian visitors should be aware of the local sensitivities.
• New Zealand maintains very stringent bio-security regulations and it is illegal to import food items like meat and meat products, honey, fruits and dairy produce. Strict penalties await those who break these rules.
• One must also take care while importing wood products, golf clubs and items made from animal skin.

Safety and Security

• Major urban areas are more prone to street crimes. Reports of thefts from unattended vehicles and hotel rooms are witnessing an upward swing in major tourist areas like Coromandel Peninsula and Queenstown.
• Travellers are advised to take proper precautions. Do not leave possessions in unattended vehicles and do not leave behind valuables in hotel rooms in certain tourist hot spots. Passports, travellers’ cheques, credit cards etc should be kept separately.

(Source: Websites of FCO and Immigration Department of New Zealand which must be referred for more detailed information. Southall Travel disclaims liability of any kind of losses or damages resulting from the use of above information).

 

 

Disclaimer:  The information in this article relating to visa/entry requirements is correct at the time of publishing. You must consult the relevant Embassy or Consulate for updated info on visa policies as requirements may change. You should check the up-to-date position in good time before booking/departure.