New Zealand does not have a written constitution. The legal system is based on traditions inherited from Britain. Power is distributed between the legislature (parliament), the judiciary (courts) and the executive (government departments, local bodies and the ruling party) so no branch of government has too much power. A Governor General represents the Queen.
New Zealand has privacy and official information laws that regulate the collection, holding, use and disclosure of personal data. Information about individuals cannot be given out without their permission.
For information on privacy laws, see www.privacy.org.nz – go to Privacy Act and codes.
International visitors have the right to a professional interpreter if they have to go to court or are questioned by the police.
The New Zealand Police give a good summary of safety information at www.police.govt.nz – go to Safety Tips then Visitors.
The New Zealand Road Code is a user-friendly guide to New Zealand’s traffic laws and safe driving practices.
The Road Code is available at www.ltsa.govt.nz/roadcode/
Key points include:
• Traffic in New Zealand drives on the left-hand side of the road.
• Drivers and passengers must wear seat belts at all times, in both front and rear seats – there are fines (financial penalties) for not wearing a seatbelt.
• The speed limit on the open road is 100 kilometres per hour (approximately 60 miles per hour). In urban areas the speed limit is 50 kilometres per hour. There are serious penalties for speeding.
• There are serious penalties for driving while drunk.
• When turning left, give way (slow down or stop) to traffic crossing or approaching from the right. There is no left turn rule as in North America.
• When the traffic light is red, you must stop.
• Drivers are advised to have plenty of sleep before a long drive and take regular breaks every two hours and when one feels sleepy.
• Drivers are not allowed to use hand-held mobile phones whilst driving (including text messaging).
To protect New Zealand's agricultural, horticultural and forestry industries, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry enforces very strict quarantine requirements. Most animal and plant products – including perishable foods like meat, fish, dairy, fruit and vegetables – are banned.
On the incoming flight students will be given a declaration form. It is important that they declare any items they have or put them in the special bin at the airport. It's a good idea to pack everything they think may be inspected near the top of their suitcase. Students need to clean all outdoor footwear and equipment, including farm, camping and sports gear, before they pack. See www.biosecurity.govt.nz – go to Personal Travel Belongings and Mail.
International students often comment on how safe they feel in New Zealand. The Ministry of Education ensures that educational providers that accept international students follow set standards for safety and security. Safety information is included in all international student orientation programmes.
New Zealand is safe compared to most countries, but students are encouraged to take sensible precautions such as:
• Get to know neighbours and find out if a Neighbourhood Support Group operates in the street.
• Never leave belongings unattended.
• Lock cars and keep belongs either in the boot or keep them with them.
The Department of Conservation has good advice for people enjoying New Zealand’s backcountry (outdoors) – the walks, rides, climbs and heritage sites. Guidelines include:
• Plan trips well in advance
• Check weather and conditions in advance
• Let someone know where and when you are going
• At all times of the year, carry warm and weatherproof clothing
• If driving on unsealed roads, remember that they can be very narrow. Keep speeds to below 40-50 km per hour, avoid braking suddenly and slow down even more for oncoming traffic or driving down hill.
New Zealand’s weather can change rapidly and get cold at any time of year. It is important to be prepared for variable conditions and be ready to change trip plans if necessary. Metservice offers the latest weather information online – see www.metservice.co.nz (including text message options) or phone 0900 999 + the area code for the local area to be visited (a charge applies).
See www.doc.govt.nz – go to Parks and Recreations, then Plan & Prepare and Safety – for more information on backcountry safety.