Tap water
Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Oceania country brief
New Zealand travel essentials
Aotearoa New Zealand
New Zealand uses Type I power outlets at 230V, 50Hz. The general emergency number is 111. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Last reviewed
Verify visa and entry rules with official authorities before travel.
Quick answer
New Zealand uses Type I power outlets at 230V, 50Hz. The general emergency number is 111. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
P
Power and plugs
- Plug types
- Type I
- Voltage
- 230V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
New Zealand runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
E
Emergency numbers
General
111
Police
111
Ambulance
111
T
Travel notes
Tipping
Tipping is not required in New Zealand. It is fine to round up or leave a small tip for exceptional restaurant service, but staff do not normally expect a percentage-based tip.
Best season
December to March is best for hiking, road trips and beaches, though it is also the busiest period. April and May bring cooler weather and fewer crowds, while winter is strongest for skiing on the South Island.
Visa basics
Many short-term visitors must hold either a visa or an approved New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority before departure. Requirements vary by passport, transit plans and length of stay, so confirm with Immigration New Zealand.
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Before you go: New Zealand checklist
- Pack a Type I plug adapter for New Zealand.
- New Zealand runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
- Bring a refillable bottle — tap water in New Zealand is generally safe.
- Save the emergency number 111 in your phone before you arrive.
- If you'll drive, remember traffic keeps to the left in New Zealand.
Tool
Check adapter needs for New Zealand
Compare your home country with New Zealand for plug and voltage compatibility.
Reference
Emergency numbers by country
Browse emergency numbers across all published TravelReady Guide country briefs.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Can I drink tap water in New Zealand? ⌄
Yes. Tap water in New Zealand is considered safe to drink.
What power plug and voltage are used in New Zealand? ⌄
New Zealand uses Type I plugs running at 230V, 50Hz. New Zealand runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
What is the emergency number in New Zealand? ⌄
Dial 111 for general emergencies in New Zealand. Police: 111. Ambulance: 111.
When is the best time to visit New Zealand? ⌄
December to March is best for hiking, road trips and beaches, though it is also the busiest period. April and May bring cooler weather and fewer crowds, while winter is strongest for skiing on the South Island.
Which side of the road do they drive on in New Zealand? ⌄
In New Zealand, traffic drives on the left side of the road, so the steering wheel is on the right. Visitors from right-hand-drive countries should take extra care.
What is the country calling code for New Zealand? ⌄
The international dialing code for New Zealand is +64. Dial this prefix after your exit code (e.g. 00 or +) to call a New Zealand number from abroad.
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Sources
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