While the Table Mountains near Cape Town may have been the inspiration for Tolkein’s epic Lord of the Rings, it is the Matamata of New Zealand which provided the stunning backdrop for the 21st century films. Dramatic, snow-dusted peaks cast mirror images in crystal lakes, tapering to green, rolling foothills in the distance; gushing rivers cut through sharp, rocky gorges as wildflowers cling to their banks. Many of the species are unique, too, as millennia of geographic isolation has bred a distinctive flora and fauna, while the sea life off Kaikura is just as spectacular; whales, dolphins, seals, penguins and abundant species of birds, to name a few.
Because of its sparse population and proliferation of sheep farms, the country is often stereotyped as an agrarian backwater. Yet, while agriculture accounts for a large portion of New Zealand’s exports, the economy is mostly service-based and the standard of living is among the highest in the world. Their business people are directly spoken and efficient and the highly liberalised economy makes it easy to find opportunities and close deals quickly and hassle-free.
There’s much to enjoy in the cities, particularly Auckland and Wellington, which seem locked in a perpetual game of cultural one-upmanship; the ‘Wellywood’ film industry and international appeal have spawned an impossible concentration of hip bars and restaurants, yet the spectacular volcanic landscapes of Auckland remain home to the most multicultural population on either island. There’s also a rich live music scene and a strong Maori influence, most visible in the national obsession with rugby.
Getting there
There are seven international airports, with Auckland the busiest, and high competition keeps fares reasonably priced. There are no regular ferries though it is possible to get from Australia aboard a private boat.
Getting around
The domestic air network is a fast and efficient way of getting around. Bus travel is well organised but journeys can take a while; trains are great for the scenery but aren’t the most efficient way of getting anywhere.
Local information
Language: English, Maori.
Time: UTC+12
Climate: Temperate oceanic. Warm summers, cool winters, rainfall throughout the year. Temperature: Max 21°C (January), Min 6°C (July). Rainfall: Max 135mm (August), Min 75mm (January)
Currency: New Zealand dollar (NZD)
Business etiquette: Business proceedings follow western standards. Appointments should be made in advance and punctuality is expected. You should start negotiations with a reasonable price as this is not a haggling culture; avoid high pressure tactics and concentrate on the detailed benefits of your product or service. Kiwis are suspicious of hyperbole so avoid overselling or making impossible promises.
Tipping: Tip only for good service; 10 percent is a reasonable amount.
Duty free: 200 cigarettes ; 4.5l wine or beer; 1.125l or 40oz spirits or liqueurs; goods to NZ$700. It is illegal to import foodstuffs, or anything made from ivory or fur.
Safety: Crime levels are very low. Petty crime is a problem in tourist areas.
Laws: Penalties for even small amounts of soft drugs include imprisonment.
Healthcare: Vaccination required for tetanus. A reciprocal health agreement exists with the UK. Medical insurance is recommended for other foreign nationals.
Socket type: Type I
