Settling-In Tips from
Staff at Crown Christchurch

What is special or unique about your city?

Christchurch is a great place to live and we think you will love it. Located half way down the East Coast of the South Island and only an hour to the foothills of the Southern Alps, Christchurch has a reputation for both its contrasting natural landscape and the beauty of the city. The meandering Avon River complete with punting, the Cathedral at the centre of the city along with the many old stone buildings near the centre are reminders of Christchurch's english heritage. The city proudly bears the name of “The Garden City” due to its expansive public parks, gardens and tree lined avenues that encompass the Central Business District (CBD). Flowing through the urban areas and the adjacent Port Hills there is an extensive network of parks, walkways and cycle ways for recreation. The sea and the mountains are both on our doorstep to enjoy many outdoor pursuits. You can participate in just about any sport or leisure you can think of and probably much more. If you love the cafe culture Christchurch will not disappoint nor will the wide range of cultural activities the city offers including a fabulous new Art Gallery. All summer we have free “summertime” entertainment and throughout the year there are a wide range of festivals including the Annual World Buskers Festival. There is something for everyone. A city of about 350,000, Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island and enjoys the convenience of a modern international airport, a busy port, excellent hospitals and two universities.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

When you fly into Christchurch you will be surprised to see how close the Alps, the agricultural land, the Port Hills and the sea are to the city. The two things that are immediately apparent on arrival in Christchurch are the friendliness of its residents and the resemblance of the city to England. The careful town planning of the early settlers from England has given Christchurch wide streets, an abundance of trees and parks and impressive neo Gothic architecture.. The relaxed pace of life in Christchurch without traffic congestion will also be apparent- unless you arrive between 5:00pm and 6:00pm when we do have minimal rush hour! There will be a lovely surprise as soon as you turn on the tap. Christchurch has pure clean untreated water from underground aquifers. No need for bottled water in Christchurch! Christchurch residents fervently support their sports teams. Late summer until spring rugby is a popular topic of conversation and the popularity of the local Crusaders team is often shown with great displays of red and black flags through out the city.

Are these impressions likely to change?

No - the impression will remain the same, down to the local aesthetics. Strict building codes ensure that Christchurch's green belt and natural beauty will not change.

What is the local language?

English is the official language of New Zealand; however you will see many names in Maori and occasionally may hear Maori spoken, along with other languages from the South Pacific islands and Asia. Here are a few Maori words that may be fun to learn as well as help you while you are here: English = Maori hello = kia ora good bye = haere ra please = koa thank you = kia ora rawa atu good = ka pai bad = ka kino help = äwhinatia yes = äe no = käo food = kai water = wai

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

It would be difficult to live in New Zealand without speaking English, as most New Zealanders only speak English or Maori. Fortunately, there is a wide variety of English language schools throughout New Zealand.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

The main thing to remember is to respect the many diverse cultures in New Zealand. To avoid offending, please take note of the following: Casual dress is acceptable and usually preferred in most situations. Do not use the "V for victory" sign as it is considered offensive. Always try to be on time for appointments. Punctuality is considered good manners. Afternoon tea is between 3:00 - 4:00pm at which sweet items such as cakes and biscuits are served. The evening meal (dinner) is between 6:00 - 8:00pm and a larger meal is served. Supper is an optional snack served much later in the evening. If you are invited over to friends for a meal and have been requested to "bring a plate", this means that you are expected to bring a small plate of food appropriate for the meal you have been invited to. Tipping rarely occurs here but it is acceptable if you wish to acknowledge good service. Cover your mouth if you must yawn, do not use toothpicks or spit in public. Ask permission before you attempt to photograph someone. When meeting someone or departing use a firm handshake with good eye contact. Avoid confusing or comparing New Zealand to Australia, as they are two distinct countries. Remember that New Zealand has strict smoking rules, and smoking is not allowed in any public building or public transport. As of December 2004 - There is no smoking in any bars, cafes or restaurants, but smoking areas are now provided outside.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

The climate is also highly variable; on any given day, you can expect to see examples of at least three of the year's seasons. As it is located in the Southern Hemisphere, New Zealand's seasons are reverse to those in the Northern Hemisphere. Here, the warmest months are December, January and February and the coldest are June, July and August. Summer can be very hot particularly when the hot dry nor west wind blows and temperatures can soar to the more than 30 degrees Celsius, but often the easterly sea breeze from the East can cool summer afternoons quickly. Glorious autumn days that are calm but still warm can follow a cool night and morning. Winter brings the frosts which are followed by crisp sunny days, the occasional snow fall, but unfortunately there can be winter smog. Spring heralds gentle spring weather, cool mornings and nights again but warm days to show off Christchurch's spectacular spring gardens, both private and public.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

Christchurch Council has a Mayor and 24 Councillors from 12 wards. Christchurch is very pro-recycling and everyone has the option of utilizing the recycling bins provided by their local council. Christchurch has pure untreated water from underground aquifers making the water always cold and perfect to drink. Residents are asked to be aware of water conservation and not waste this natural resource. New Zealand has a high regard for its natural beauty, and New Zealanders are extremely protective of the flora and fauna.

Useful Links

Crown Relocations http://www.crownrelo.com Welcome to Christchurch www.Christchurch.org.nz Climate in Christchurch www.climate.co.nz/ Finding a street in Christchurch www.nzmaps.co.nz/ Living in New Zealand www.nukiwi.com Travel in Christchurch www.aaguides.co.nz/ New Zealand Tourism www.purenz.com New Zealand Herald www.nzherald.co.nz/ List of all newspapers www.converge.org.nz/pap-anz.html

 

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?

Your status in New Zealand depends on your country of citizenship, the length of your stay within New Zealand, and the type of Visa or Permit you have been issued. Australian citizens are able to live, work and visit New Zealand by showing a valid Australian passport. Residents and people holding work permits for a stay of two years or more (and their dependant children) are eligible for publicly funded health care and disability services. Other work permit holders, students, and visitor permit holders generally are not eligible. People covered by New Zealand’s Reciprocal Health Agreements with Australia and the UK are entitled to publicly funded health care for immediately necessary medical treatment only. It is strongly recommended that you have comprehensive health insurance for the duration of your visit.

What kinds of visas are available?

There are several types of Visas and Permits available allowing people to live, work, study or visit New Zealand. There are many variables associated with each visa, including your family status, the type of work you do and whether you have a job offer in New Zealand, to name just a few. The type of visa you apply for is dependent upon your intended length of stay and what you plan to do while you're there. A points system is in place to determine your eligibility for permanent residency and points are awarded for qualifications, work experience and relevant offers of employment. Please contact Crown Christchurch for more information.

What is required to obtain these visas?

On May 4th 2009, legislation came into effect in New Zealand requiring any person onshore who provides New Zealand immigration advise to be licensed. On May 4th 2010 legislation came into effect requiring any person offshore who provides New Zealand immigration advice to be licensed. It is now a crime to provide New Zealand immigration advise (unless exempt). All New Zealand immigration advise must be provided by advisers licensed by the Immigration Advisers Authority. The licensed advisers are listed on the Immigration Advisers Authority register.The register can be viewed at www.iaa.govt.nz This new legislation has created a need for many of Crown’s client organisations to seek external support.Crown anticipated the need and is the only New Zealand full service relocation company with in house Licensed Immigration Advisers. Our experienced and licensed team is here to deliver a total immigration support programme in a practical and cost effective fashion. Crown understands that moving to a new country is a special event. It can be a stressful time for employers, individuals and families. The new service is designed to take away these pressures and ensure a stress free and seamless relocation experience for all concerned. Tracy C. Hockings thockings@crownrelo.com IAA License Number 200902205 Natasha C. Ferguson nferguson@crownrelo.com IAA License Number 201000498 www.crownrelo.co.nz/licensed-immigration-team.html

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

A spouse must apply for a permit or Visa in his own right, however this is usually issued when the principal applicant's visa is granted. Some professions require a New Zealand Qualification to be given before the applicant can begin work. Please contact Crown New Zealand Global Mobility Department for more information.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

The main types of identification you should have or acquire are: valid passport New Zealand Driver's License banking identification card Do note, applications for Driver's Licenses can be obtained from an Automobile Association Office or a local car testing station. You can find either in your local telephone book's yellow pages.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

All workers in New Zealand must hold a Tax Code, which is issued by the Inland Revenue Department. Application forms can be obtained via their website. Personal Income tax is paid to the New Zealand Government on all earnings.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

The following items should not be brought into the country: Food of any kind Plants or parts of plants (alive or dead) Animals or animal products (alive or dead) Equipment used with animals Biological specimens Trophies of: sea turtles, all big cats, rare reptiles, cranes, pheasants, bears, antelope, and deer Firearms & Weapons Illegal Drugs

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?

Visas and permits are issued for a specific period of time, the maximum being three years. Extensions to Visas must be applied for separately, or an application for Permanent Residency made. You must always have a valid passport with an expiration date not less than three months after you intend to leave the country. The New Zealand Immigration Service reserves the right to deport anyone convicted of a criminal act.

Useful Links

NZ Immigration Service www.immigration.govt.nz The Inland Revenue www.ird.govt.nz NZ Qualifications Authority www.nzqa.govt.nz Crown Relocations www.crownrelo.com/relo/services.relocation.html

 

What is the local currency?

The New Zealand currency is dollars (NZ$). The dollar can be broken down into 100 cents. The only accepted currency is the New Zealand Dollar.

What denominations does it come in?

New Zealand dollars are divided into 100 cents. There are $100, $50, $20, $10 and $5 notes made of a sturdy plastic material and coins in denominations of two dollars and one dollar, as well as 50, 20 and 10 cents. Grocery items are given to the nearest cent, but the final bill is rounded up or down to the nearest ten cents. Generally, Goods and Service Tax (GST) of 12.5% is included in the listed price, except for some business hotels, where rates will be clearly marked GST-exclusive. Please note: New Zealand Government has made an announcement that by October 2010, GST will be 15%.

What is the best way to exchange currency?

Banks provide the best method for foreign exchange and will have the latest foreign exchange rates. Hotels will exchange foreign money, but they are likely to offer the service at a higher rate than the banks.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?

Cash, EFT Pos (personal banking card), major credit cards (i.e., MasterCard, Visa, Diners Club and American Express). Personal Cheques will not be accepted without proof of identity.

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.

While most shops and restaurants will accept cheques or credit cards, some smaller institutions may not. As such, it is always a good idea to have a little cash on hand. Cash will be required in smaller stores, street vendors, and some public transport

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?

Normally, people opt to pay by direct debit from a bank account or credit card.

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?

A bank account can be opened at any time with correct identification. Banks will require two forms of identification. One should be your passport or driver's license. The second can be your credit card, debit card or birth certificate. Non-New Zealand residents and new residents must provide a valid passport as one form of identification. You do not need a permanent address to open an account. If applying for credit card, you must provide an evidence of income. This can be as a payslip, letter from your employer on their business letterhead, or if you are self employed - financial statements for the past year. You can also transfer your accounts from another bank, please contact the banks directly for further details.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?

Banking services are mainly in English, though several of the major banks in the Central Business District also have staff who can speak a variety of foreign languages.

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?

No restrictions - as long as personal identification is available and minimal cash for an opening deposit

What are typical banking hours?

Typically banking hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 4:30pm. However, some banks stay open late on Thursday evening and some open for business on Saturday morning. Do note: the majority of banks are closed Saturdays and all banks are closed on Sundays and public holidays.

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?

ATMs are available around the clock and they are easily accessible.

Is there any other money information that might help me?

Watch out for high service charges incurred for using an ATM machines not affiliated with your bank. Check to see if your bank charges a service fee for every transaction.

Useful Links

Australian & New Zealand Bank www.anz.co.nz Bank of New Zealand www.bnz.co.nz National Bank of New Zealand www.nationalbank.co.nz Kiwibank www.kiwibank.co.nz Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) www.hsbc.co.nz ASB Bank www.asbbank.co.nz Taranaki Savings Bank www.tsb.co.nz Westpac Bank of New Zealand www.westpac.co.nz

 

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

Real Estate in Christchurch has been very buoyant. Properties can be challenging to secure -- especially in good school zones, as our zoning system is strict. Christchurch has a well-designed network of roads and is very easy to get around. When searching for a place to live, some important factors to consider are safety, location preference and individual needs. Depending on your preferences, you may want to find a place close to a school, church, transportation, shops, medical facilities, work and most importantly an area that is secure and safe. As with other cities in New Zealand, choosing the right place to live is essential to having a pleasant and safe stay in Christchurch.

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

Merivale and Fendalton are two of the more sought after suburbs in the city coupled with Sumner and Cashmere.However their popularity commands high house prices. Merivale and Fendalton are established leafy suburbs situated close to the private (fee paying) schools. Most of the streets in these areas are also in Christchurch Girls and Christchurch Boys High School zones - these two state schools are very popular, but children must live within the school zone to have automatic right of entry. Both suburbs are within 5 – 10 minutes drive to the CBD. Cashmere also is an old established leafy suburb situated on the Port Hills. Cashmere homes enjoy panoramic views over the city through to the sea and the mountains. Travel in to CBD is less than 15 minutes. Sumner is a popular seaside suburb 20 minutes from the CBD. The climate is milder than in the city and Sumner's hill properties have spectacular sea, city and mountain views. The lifestyle is casual and there is a huge cafe culture but high house prices. Burnsideand Ilamare also popular with expats. The university is situated in Ilam and Burnside High School is the most sought after State Co-ed High School. If you are interested in apartment living, there is a wide variety available in the city center, Sumner and Merivale.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Expats initially rent and then the majority tend to purchase if they are staying longer than one year. This gives them time to understand the housing market. Whilst looking for a permanent accommodation to rent or buy in Christchurch, you can opt to stay at motels, serviced apartments or even holiday houses, other than hotels. Please refer to websites below for further information.

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

When renting you are required to pay a bond equivalent to two or three weeks' rent. This is held in a Trust Account by a third party and returned at the end of the tenancy providing there is no rent owed or damages to the property. Rent is always paid in advance, usually weekly or fortnightly,and if the property is obtained through a letting agent, there is also a fee to be paid of one weeks rent plus GST (Government Service Tax) of 12.5%. In summary, you could be required to have 5 weeks rent prior to moving into a rental property: two weeks rent in advance, two to three weeks bond and one week to cover the letting fee. Please note: New Zealand Government has made an announcement that by October 2010, GST will be 15%.

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

Utilities are usually additional to rental prices. Very seldom are they included in the rent.

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

Generally Christchurch is considered a safe city to live in. There are a few suburbs that are considered less desirable and do have a higher youth crime rate.

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

The electric current for New Zealand is 230-240 volts. The electrical Hertz (Hz) is 50 hertz of power. Plugs have two or three prongs in a triangular shape. Although adaptors are available, it is considered better to purchase small appliances on arrival. Type I plug - Oblique flat blades with ground (inverted V)

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

Good rental properties are hard to find and it is advisable that transferees have a personal reference or testimonial from a previous landlord to assist in securing highly sought after rental properties. While pets are welcome in Christchurch homes, the rental process may take longer to accommodate pet requirements. Some useful terms to be acquainted with are: Flats - a dwelling normally shared by a group of people. Apartments - several properties on shared land with secure entry to both the parking area and the whole accommodation block. Townhouses - several properties on shared land Units - dwellings joined to each other - normally single storied Baches - small holiday homes Bungalows/villas - older wooden home - single storey on own piece of land Cottages - small older wooden home

Useful Links

New Zealand Ministry of Housing www.minhousing.govt.nz/ Finding a street in Christchurch www.nzmaps.co.nz/ NZ Institute of Building Surveyors www.buildingsurveyors.co.nz Living in New Zealand www.nukiwi.com Accommodation and Restaurants www.atoz-nz.com/ Real Estate Institute www.reinz.co.nz Holiday Houses www.holidayhouse.co.nz Home Let www.homelet.co.nz Trade Me Property www.trademe.co.nz Crown Relocations www.crownrelo.com/relo/services.relocation.html

 

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

In Christchurch, schooling is a very important issue for parents. This is reflected in house prices in areas where the schools are highly regarded. Education is free when children utilize state schools, but there are many private (fee paying) schools as well. There is the choice of single sex or co- ed schools in both the primary (years 1- 8) or secondary (years 9 -13) sectors. Most expats choose the state system, but as the majority of state schools have a catchment zone it is important to check the school zone when renting or purchasing a property, if you wish your child to attend a specific school. There are no dedicated international schools in Christchurch, but St Andrews College does have an International School on a different campus from the main College, but nearly all schools now whether state or private have a mix of New Zealand and expat children.

What are some examples of these schools?

Christchurch offers a wide variety of education, including state and private schooling. Private schools can offer both traditional Christian education and alternative styles of education. There are excellent state primary schools in many of the different suburbs. All state primary schools are coeducational, with a few covering years 1- 8, and the majority covering years 1- 6. On completing primary schools the children attend an intermediate school for years 7 and 8. School hours are generally between 09:00am - 15:00pm Monday to Friday. School hours may vary for Primary, Intermediate and High Schools. Popular Merivale has several private schools for girls such as, Selwyn House Prep School, Rangi Ruru Girls School and St. Margaret’s College. And, for co-ed, a popular school is St. Andrews College. A popular private school for boys is Christs College which is situated beside the botanical gardens and Avon River near the CBD. The school is well known for its conservative traditions and the beautiful old neo gothic architecture of the original buildings. The state schools of Christchurch Girls High and Christchurch Boys High are also schools with strong traditions that are very sought after both with much of Fendalton and Merivale in their zones. Burnside High and Cashmere High Schools are the most sought after co-ed state schools. Middleton Grange School near Riccarton is a private Christian school for years 1-13. St Bedes for boys and Villa Maria for girls both are integrated Catholic schools which mean there are minimal fees only to be paid. Christchurch also has a Steiner school.

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

Yes, Christchurch has very strict zoning rules for public schools. Zoning is an area surrounding a school where pupils have to reside to be eligible to attend. Zoning areas should be checked with each individual school. Although zoning rules do not apply to private schools, these schools have only limited spaces and you may be placed on a waiting list. It is important that you begin the application process as soon as possible. Should you require assistance with school search, please contact Crown Global Mobility Services department who provides a School Search programme.

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

There are a vast range of pre-schools including Montessori. Public Kindergartens also have waiting lists, but there is a wide range of child care facilities in most suburbs and are listed in the local telephone book or the telephone directory - Yellow pages under child Care facilities.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

Most parents drive their children back and forth to primary schools; as such, car pooling is a very popular option. Most Intermediate and High school students walk, bike or take the bus where required.

When does the typical school year start and end?

The scholastic year is divided into 4 terms. Term one runs from January through April; term two from April to July; term three from July to September and term four from October to December. The school year reflects the reversal of seasons found in the Southern Hemisphere. The year is divided into four terms with holiday breaks in between. Children arriving from the Northern Hemisphere will either lose or gain six months in their grade placement. Schools try to place a child in their closest age group. Most schools favour the wearing of school uniforms. Students are required to purchase their own textbooks and school supplies.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

Information about any school in New Zealand can be obtained from the Educational Review Office at the website listed below. The Ministry of Education uses a decile rating system for school funding purposes. Schools in decile one have the highest proportion of students from low social-economic backgrounds. Schools in decile ten have the lowest proportions of these students. In New Zealand, schools are given a rating depending on the income of the people in the surrounding areas. The decile rating, ranges from 1 (lowest income districts) to 10 (highest income district). The National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) was progressively implemented between 2002 and 2004, as the national senior secondary school qualification. The NCEA correspond to the final three years of secondary schooling (Years 11-13). Information about the NCEA and New Zealand Scholarship can be found on www.ncea.govt.nz. Ministry of Education provides assistance for international students where English is not their first language. This programme is called ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Langauages). It is designed to assist students to participate successfully in the New Zealand school curriculum and interact socially with New Zealand students and within the wider New Zealand community. For further information, please visit www.minedu.govt.nz (type ESOL under search). For any other questions, please contact Crown Christchurch.

Useful Links

Educational Review Office www.ero.govt.nz NZ Ministry of Education www.minedu.govt.nz/ Database of New Zealand Schools www.tki.org.nz Catholic Education www.catholic.org/newzealand Montessori www.montessori.org.nz New Zealand Private Schools www.isnz.org.nz University of Canterbury www.canterbury.ac.nz Crown Relocations www.crownrelo.com/relo/services.relocation.html

 

Will I need to drive my own vehicle to conduct my everyday life (work/school/shopping) at my destination?

Your own vehicle does make life very easy to get round and parking is not normally too much of an issue around the suburbs. Should you take your own vehicle into the city for work purposes you may find that you pay for parking which can be expensive and in this case you may choose to use our bus service, which leaves from the central point (Bus Exchange) in the city to all suburbs.

How can I legally drive a vehicle in this city?

If you have a current and valid overseas driver license you can drive using that for maximum of 12 months from the date you arrive in New Zealand. If your overseas licence or permit is not in English then you must carry an acceptable translation. If you wish to drive after one year you must obtain a new Zealand drivers licence.Depending on the country you have come from, you may have to pass a theory and or practical test. Please visit your local Automobile Association office to obtain an application for a New Zealand driver's license.

What side of the road do people drive on?

Motorists drive on the left hand side of the road.

Describe typical public transportation an expat might use to get around the city.

The Christchurch bus system is both efficient and reasonably priced with discounted off peak fares and a metro card that gives unlimited travel for $21 per week. A free shuttle bus travels within the CBD and just for fun a trip on "The Tram" will take you around the city to the main tourist spots or for a treat you could enjoy dinner on the tram as it circles the older part of the city.

Could an expat also use public transportation to get out of the city—to surrounding towns, recreation areas or suburbs? If so, list options.

The most popular form of local transport is the bus, which has routes covering all of the shopping, sports and other recreational complexes all through the city and the outlying areas. Bus transport is used both for city and out lying areas. The green orbiter buses in the city have routes that service the shopping malls, recreational complexes, hospitals and university. Trains are used for longer journeys (i.e. Picton or Greymouth). Shuttles and buses are also available around the South Island.

In regards to transportation, are there any safety issues I should be aware of?

There are no additional safety issues -- apart from remembering that New Zealanders drive on the left side of the road. In addition, pedestrians who are not used to this system should be cautious when crossing the road. Wearing seatbelts is compulsory for all passengers. Motorcyclists must wear crash helmets. Maximum legal speed on highways and motorways is normally 100 kph (61 mph). In cities and towns, the limit is 50 kph (30 mph). Speed limit signs show the maximum speed at which you can travel. Exceeding the speed limits is considered a serious offense and carries heavy penalties. At a 'Give Way' sign, be ready to stop and give way to all traffic. At a 'Stop' sign, stop completely and then give way to all traffic. At intersections that do not have 'Give Way' or 'Stop' signs or traffic lights, the following rules apply: if you are turning, give way to all vehicles not turning in all other situations give way to vehicles crossing or approaching from your right. If you are turning left, this includes any vehicles coming towards you that is turning right. For a more detailed explanation of New Zealand's driving rules, copies of the 'New Zealand Road Code' can be purchased from most bookshops and stationery outlets. New Zealand laws requires that all children under the age of five are property restrained in an approved child restraint appropriate for their age and weight. Approved child restraints include: infant restraints for young babies (often called baby capsules) restraints for older babies and toddlers (often called car seats) harnesses and booster seats for preschool and school-aged children Child restraints are sold by retailers such as department stores, larger toy shops and shops that sell baby supplies. You can rent child restraints from the Plunket, other community groups and some companies. Plunket Car Seat Rental Schemes have booster seats, infant and child restraints available for short and long term hire suitable for newborns and children up to seven years. They are available for a minimal cost to ensure all families can afford to keep their children safe while travelling. You can visit Plunket's website for further details: www.plunket.org.nz

Where do I buy tickets/tokens/etc. for the major public transportation?

You can buy tickets and Metro cards from the Bus Exchange. A new system, effective, September 2003, allows you to recharge on the same card, a little bit like a phone card, The Bus Exchange and the Tourist Office in the Square have bus information and sell the discounted metro cards, which you swipe each time you hop on a bus. Otherwise, you can still pay cash to the bus driver.

Useful Links

Metroinfo (buses) www.metroinfo.org.nz Christchurch Public Transport Directory www.bugpacific.com.christchurch Christchurch Traffic Authority www.police.govt.nz/service/traffic Budget Rent-a-Car www.budget.co.nz/ Thrifty Car Rentals www.thrifty.co.nz/ NZ Automobile Association www.nzaa.co.nz Avis Car Rental www.avis.co.nz Christchurch Car Insurance www.christchurchinsurance.co.nz Air New Zealand www.airnewzealand.com Qantas www.qantas.co.nz Pacific Blue www.flypacificblue.com Origin Pacific Airways www.originpacific.co.nz Trans Rail Scenic www.tranzscenic.co.nz Land Transport Safety Authority www.ltsa.govt.nz.co.nz/licensing Kiwi Rail www.kiwirail.co.nz

 

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Please contact your closest embassy or consulate for confirmation.