Thanks for all of your suggestions.
spotty-dalmatian - That's good to know that they sell liquor and food in the same stores. We do that as well here in California.
neverwinter - Thanks for the info about driving habits. We encountered that as well in South Africa. Safety is always at the forefront.
I don't think we are going to be able to make it to Christchurch this time around. Our schedule is very tight.
You can go to the supermarket at 7.30 in the morning and buy beer or wine if you wanted. Note that they dont sell spirits-- only liquor outlets can.And in Auckland, theres usually one of those at every set of suburban shops.Probably a dozen or so within a km or so from my house.
#4, as a Kiwi, I wouldnt say NZ was the 3rd safest country in the world. Doesnt even make the Top 10 anywhere I looked.
FYI
In fact, according to the 2013 Global Peace Index, we're the 3rd safest place to live in the world (after Iceland and Denmark). Up against 144 countries, New Zealand was followed by Austria (4th) and Switzerland (5th
But you've only been in NZ 4 months. Live here permanently and you might see the other side.
Hey relax I'm not stating your wrong I was simply showing you what you couldn't find. For the record I do live here permanently now and I'm married to a kiwi. Simply comparing this country to others which I've lived and travelled to saying it's safer! That's all.
Thanks so much. I know that New Zealand is safe, but it never hurts to ask.
How is the weather in New Zealand? What type of clothing should we bring?
What date are you arriving? Its still very much spring so the weather is on and off but definitely warming up.
You will love NZ I fell in love with it on my first trip here, the scenery is amazing, I have family visiting in Dec from Northern Ireland ( my home ) and we are organising a full road trip north to south before we head to Oz.
I can't wait as I know this holiday will be completely different and breath taking compared to what they have experienced ever before on their travels I describe it as a huge Jurassic Park lol I'm sure ppl will disagree but you'll see what I mean by the landscape, my husband is Kiwi he laughs when I say this!
I have to say I find Kiwis the most genuine friendly ppl compared to anywhere ive been they remind me of irish ppl very friendly and very laid back, anything goes. ( I maybe biased though ;) )
We are arriving the 21st of October. Thanks for all of your positive comments. We are so looking forward to it
Driving is made worse by idiots like Spotty Dalmatian trying to drive on the RIGHT!
Tired tourists are a constant problem on SI roads. Do not try to drive more than 5 hr per day (say max 350 km). NZ roads are not like Autobahns of Europe, or Interstates in the US.
Do be aware that NZ is a first world country with a high standard of Social Welfare & a minimum wage policy - it is NOT ac heap destination like SEA. On the good side, National parks & most public museums, churches etc are free to enter, unlike UK & Europe; and tipping is not required like North America.