About
Known the world over for its untouched lands, and unparalleled beauty, New Zealand is a country of stunning views that will take your breath away, clear seemingly blue but green waters, fresh and crisp air that breathes peace, and an indescribable energy and warmth that welcomes you. Comprising of two main landmasses, the North and the South Islands, New Zealand is situated approx 2000km southeast of Australia, across the Tasman Sea. The Bay Of Plenty is located in the Northeast bight of the North Island.
The harbour city of Tauranga is the Bay of Plenty’s main centre, with it’s beautiful harbour offering a multitude of marine activities including swimming, surfing, fishing, diving, waterskiing, kayaking, windsurfing and parasailing. Tauranga’s heart is its lively waterfront area, bustling with shops, restaurants and cafés, an ideal spot for a waterfront stroll.
Population
4,390,000
Capital City
Wellington
Climate
The north of New Zealand is subtropical and the south is temperate. The warmest months are December, January and February, and the coldest June, July and August. In summer, the average maximum temperature ranges between 20-30ºC and in winter between 10-15ºC.
Time Zone
Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) + 12 hours. Two hours ahead of
Australian Eastern Standard Time
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD) Click here to view latest exchange rates
Are Visa’s Required?
Australian citizens/passport holders do not require a visa for a short stay in New Zealand. Make sure your passport has at least six months validity, and carry a copy of a recent passport photo with you in case you need a replacement passport while overseas.
Paying Locally – ATM’s/Credit Card Facilities
ATM access is widely available throughout New Zealand. Money change is available at Auckland airport. Bank hours are 9:30am to 4:30pm Monday to Friday. Tauranga’s hotels accept major credit cards, and ATM access is available in the town.
Fish Handling Policy
Due to the remoteness of this location, logistics involved and release policy for sustainable fishing, it is not possible to take fish out of New Zealand. Keeping select fish for eating throughout the trip is at your skipper’s discretion. The Sebel Hotel, local restaurants and fish and chip shops can cook your catch for you for a small fee.
Alcohol/Duty Free Limits
The duty free limit for taking alcohol into New Zealand is; not more than 3 bottles of spirits (up to a maximum of 1125ml each), 4.5 litres of wine, port, sherry, champagne (six bottles) or beer (12 cans). Hotels in Tauranga have bar facilities with major credit cards accepted.
Tipping/Gratuities
Tipping is not mandatory in New Zealand, but tends to be a common practice on conclusion of a charter; if you wish to pass the hat around between the group, AUD $50 per days fishing (per boat) is a rough guide. Lures, sunglasses and cool t-shirts are also a hit with crews. Please note, all tipping to skippers, deck hands, crew or other service providers is entirely up to the individuals’ discretion.
Electricity/Adaptors
Electricity/power outlets throughout New Zealand are the same as in Australia.
Getting There
Air New Zealand and other airline carriers offer International flights direct into Rotorua (40min) & Auckland (2.5 hours). Ocean Blue organise a luxury shuttle service to link with flight schedules as required.
Rod Tubes/Local Luggage Limitations
Air New Zealand baggage policy is based on a piece system, not a weight system, so each bag (or rod tube) over the allocated first 23kg will be charged per piece. Rob tubes are considered sporting equipment. More info
Unforeseen Expenses
Any additional or unforeseen expenses; i.e. lost or damaged tackle, lure purchases, etc) to be paid directly to your skipper.
