Kia ora. Welcome to New Zealand, Aotearoa.
We are delighted to be able to introduce you to this package of information, which is designed to help you with your tour of New Zealand.
New Zealand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world for motorcycling. The views of mountain ranges, lakes and scenic countryside in the North and South Island,make it difficult to keep your eyes on the road.
1) New Zealand Traffic Lights = Green- Go
Amber- Go Fast
Red- Go very fast.
Seriously, the police are trying to solve the problem of "Red Light Jumping" with cameras at the traffic lights. You need your wits about you at all road junctions, especially in Christchurch, which has been labelled 'crash city'.
Pick up a leaflet from the AA office on "Driving in New Zealand". This will inform you on the main differences when driving in New Zealand.
2) If you have the luxury of seeing a road work warning sign, (can be vague or non existent at times), slow right down and concentrate on the route . Also, roads do change suddenly, from tar-sealed to gravel without warning, so be prepared.
3) Hiring a motor cycle is an option. We have used, and been pleased with the service, and value for money from Cycletreads in Christchurch.
Prices per day ranging from NZ$70 - NZ$245 depending on the bike you choose.
Prices include unlimited kilometres, insurance, GST, hard lockable luggage, screens on all bikes,and helmets, rain suits and gloves. Leather jackets and safari jackets incur a small charge. Discounts are given for long hires. Buy back quotes are also available. Cycletreads,Christchurch and Leading Edge, Auckland are with Te Waipounamu Motorcycle Tours. HYPERLINK "http://www.motorcycle-hire.co.nz" www.motorcycle-hire.co.nz½
4) Where to stay? HYPERLINK "http://www.in focus.co.nz/index.html" www.in focus.co.nz/index.html½or HYPERLINK "http://www.aa guides.co.nz" www.aa guides.co.nz½
Tourist information have details of all types of accommodation from backpackers, to motels. No need to book in advance unless it is Christmas or a public holiday.
5) Where to eat? You cannot go wrong as New Zealand is multicultural and you can get most foods. Bikers are welcome everywhere.
6) What to wear?Be prepared for all weather as it is very changeable.
7)Facts and pictures of New Zealand on HYPERLINK "http://www.imagenz.com" www.imagenz.com½
8) What to bring with you? The sun is very strong due to the thin ozone, so
SLIP.SLAP. SLOP.
Slip on a T Shirt, Slap on a hat and Slop on total sunblock.
You will also need insect repellent spray as the sand flies are waiting for you in some parts on New Zealand and 'do not take prisoners'.
9) Your mobile telephone signal will not be present in parts of New Zealand so always make sure you have made your important phone calls and have a full tank of fuel before you leave for your next destination.
10) Get yourself a copy of the Lonely Planet Guide Travel Survival Kit ñ
New Zealand. Lonely Planets Publication. (The book is superior to their website).
World Web: HYPERLINK "http://www.lonelyplanet.com" http://www.lonelyplanet.com½
"Kiwi's" are friendly, good humoured guys that want you to see and appreciated their beautiful country, so ........................................................."Enjoy your trip".
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