Leave nothing to chance and let our travel advice clear up any questions; a little preparation will make your trip perfect in every way.
CLIMATE AND TEMPTERATURE
Wharekauhau is located on the Pacific coast, so our climate is strongly influenced by our marine neighbour. We are located 50 metres above sea level so we are not prone to frosts or snow.
Summer: December to February
Warm mornings followed by hot days leading into long sunny evenings in the Courtyard.
Temperature: 20–29° C (69–84° F)
Autumn: March to May
Cool mornings that lead into stunning days, followed by cool evenings.
Temperature: 15–25° C (59–77° F)
Winter: June to August
The marine influence is strongest during this time. Crisp mornings with clear, but cool days. Perfect weather for relaxing fire-side.
Temperature: 9–15° C (48–59° F)
Spring: September to November
The lambs return to the paddocks, as does the sun return to our skies. Crisp evening still linger until mid-November.
Temperature: 10–17° C (50–66° F)
RECOMMENDED CLOTHING
To take full advantage of Wharekauhau we recommend bringing:
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A pair of walking shoes
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An outdoor jacket over the cooler months of the year
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A swimsuit to enjoy our indoor pool
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A pair of sunglasses is recommended as New Zealand has very clear and bright light
CURRENCY
New Zealand currency is the New Zealand Dollar. Foreign currency can be converted at most banks in New Zealand, Hotels and Bureau de Change desks.
Most places in New Zealand accept all major Credit Cards (American Express, VISA, MasterCard, and Diners Club). Travellers Cheques are accepted at lodges, hotels and certain retail stores.
To view a currency converter click here
ELECTRICITY
230/240 volts, 50 hertz - International adaptors are available at Wharekauhau. Bathrooms are equipped with 100 volt ac sockets for electric razors.
GOODS AND SERVICES TAX (GST)
All goods and services in New Zealand are subject to a government tax of 15% (GST). Unless specified, this tax will be included in the displayed price of any goods or services.
Upon departure this tax cannot be claimed back, however if a major purchase is shipped to a visitors home address outside New Zealand the GST will not be charged.
GRATUITIES AND TIPPING
Tipping is not compulsory in New Zealand. It is best described as ‘tipping is at your discretion’, and if you feel services that you have received has been particularly special or well administered, then you are welcome to leave a gratuity, however it is not compulsory.
TIME DIFFERENCE
New Zealand is one of the first countries to see the sunrise each day. We are ahead of these locations by roughly the following hours:
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US West Coast: 20 hours
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US East Coast: 17 hours
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United Kingdom: 12 hours
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Europe: 11 hours
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South Africa: 10 hours
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Hong Kong: 4 hours
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Australian East Coast: 2 hours