General Information  Passport & Visas People from over 50  countries (click here to view list)  don't need a visitor visa to enter New Zealand for a short visit. However, they are still required to provide: •  travel tickets or evidence of onward travel arrangements, and •  evidence of funds for maintenance   Full information is available online at www.immigration.govt.nz. Please read the Passports and Visas section carefully or visit your local New Zealand Embassy. Those who may require a visa should obtain visa in advance. If you are transiting via any other country en route to New Zealand, please check the relevant visa requirements for that country. Customs Requirements   New Zealand has strict rules to protect its agricultural industries from imported pests and diseases. If you bring in items such as food and plants, these must be declared to Ministry for Primary Industries. Visit www.biosecurity.govt.nz for more information. Like other countries New Zealand has strict security concerning drugs, firearms and other dangerous goods. For more information visit www.customs.org.nz Climate New Zealand’s seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere. This means that the warmest months are December, January and February, while the coldest are in June, July and August. Therefore November will be equivalent to April/May temperatures in Northern Hemisphere. Temperatures should be around 13°C-18°C. It is advisable to bring some warm clothing and a rain jacket. Electricity Electricity is supplied at 230/240 volts (50 hertz), although most hotels and motels provide 110 volt AC sockets (rated at 20 watts) for electric razors only. For all other equipment, an adaptor/converter is necessary, unless the item has a multi-voltage option. Please note that the power outlets only accept flat three or two-pin plugs, depending on whether an earth connection is fitted. Tipping Tipping is not expected in New Zealand but up to 10% is gladly accepted. Credit Cards/ ATM Cards   All major international credit cards can be used in New Zealand and Travellers Cheques are accepted at hotels, banks and some stores. If your credit card is encoded with a PIN number you will be able to withdraw cash from automatic teller machines (ATMs) situate at banks and shopping centres throughout the country. Goods & Services Tax All goods and services in New Zealand are subject to 15% tax (GST). Overseas visitors cannot claim back GST. However, some stores sell goods to overseas visitors excluding GST when shown proof of onward or return ticket. Liability/ Insurance   In the event of industrial disruptions or natural disasters, personal injury or damage to persons or property occurring before or during the conference, neither the Office of the Ombudsmen of New Zealand or the secretariat, Conferences & Events Ltd, cannot accept responsibility for any losses incurred by delegates. Personal insurance is the responsibility of the individual delegate and is highly recommended. Please check with your travel agent or an insurance broker.