OFFICIAL NAME: New Zealand/Aotearoa (Māori)
Abbreviation: NZ

New Zealand is an island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. The Cook Strait separates its two main islands, North and South Islands. Australia, its nearest neighbor, is 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) away.

The islands were created just 23 million years ago when volcanic forces thrust land out of the ocean. New Zealand has more than 50 volcanoes, some of which are still active today. Sharp, snowy peaks, rocky shores, and pastures create a majestic landscape.

The South Island is home to New Zealand's highest mountain peak, Mount Cook, which rises to 12,316 feet (3,754 meters) and is called "Cloud Piercer" by the Māori people.

New Zealand's climate is influenced by its latitude, isolation, and physical characteristics. It experiences a cycle of high-pressure systems (anti-cyclones) and middle-latitude cyclones and fronts from west to east year-round. The climate is characterized by a sequence of fine weather and clear skies, with days with unsettled weather and heavy rain. In summer, subtropical highs dominate, while in winter, middle-latitude lows and active fronts increase blustery, wet conditions. The contrast in climate from west to east is sharper due to high mountain chains.

In summer (December–February), subtropical highs dominate, bringing protracted spells of fine weather and intense sunshine. In winter (June–August), middle-latitude lows and active fronts increase the blustery, wet conditions, although short spells of clear skies also occur.

According to Stats.NZ, the estimated population of New Zealand is around 5,356,700 as of 31 December 2024. Currently, 82.4 % of the population is urban. Distinct ethnic groups in New Zealand are European, Māori, Pacific peoples, Asian, MELAA (Middle Eastern / Latin American / African), and 'Other ethnicity'. New Zealand is ranked no. 126 among countries in population in the world.

New Zealand is predominantly English-speaking, though English, Māori, and New Zealand Sign Language are official languages. Virtually all Māori speak English, and about one-fourth also speak Māori. The Māori language (te reo Māori) is taught at several schools. Other non-English languages significant people speak are Samoan, Hindi, and Mandarin Chinese.

New Zealand is predominantly Christian, with the largest denominations being Anglican, Roman Catholic, and Presbyterian. Protestant sects and Māori adaptations make up the remaining Christian population. About one-third of the population has no religious affiliation, with small but growing followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism.

New Zealand is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government. The head of state is King Charles III, represented by the Governor-General. The country uses a Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) voting system, which prevents one political party from winning a majority of seats in the House.

NZ also uses the system of ‘responsible government’. This means that the government can only be made up of Ministers who are first-elected members of the House of Representatives. The government can only stay in power while it has a majority of members in the House of Representative

The system of government consists of three separate branches: the legislature (Parliament), the Members of Parliament (MPs), and the Executive branch. The legislature supplies the government with MPs, makes new laws and updates old ones, represents New Zealanders, examines and approves government taxes and spending, and checks the actions of the Executive. The Executive branch runs the country and makes day-to-day decisions on spending, bringing proposed laws to parliament, and deciding policies implemented by government departments. The judiciary consists of judges and courts, who interpret the law and review government decisions.

New Zealand has a highly efficient agricultural sector, mainly based on sheep raising and sizable manufacturing and service sectors. Exports of goods and services account for around one-third of its GDP. New Zealand has an open economy that works on free market principles. It is one of the least regulated, most free-market-based economies in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). The OECD is an international organization that works together to address economic, social, and environmental challenges.

New Zealand's top exports include concentrated milk, sheep and goat Meat, butter, frozen bovine meat, and rough wood, with exports mainly to China, Australia, the United States, Japan, and South Korea. In 2022, New Zealand was the world's largest exporter of concentrated milk, butter, rough wood, casein, and honey. Its top imports include refined petroleum, cars, delivery trucks, gas turbines, and broadcasting equipment, mainly from China, Australia, the United States, South Korea, and Singapore.

New Zealand's student-centered education system offers continuous learning progression and choice. It reflects a unique and diverse society, welcoming students from various abilities, religious beliefs, ethnic groups, income levels, and teaching ideas. The system provides consistent, high-quality education at all levels. New Zealand's education system is supported by various agencies, each with varying roles and responsibilities. New Zealand's education system has three levels:

• Early Childhood : from birth to school entry age
• Primary and Secondary : from 5–19 years of age
• Further education: higher and vocational education

Early childhood education (ECE) is crucial for children to develop confidence, curiosity, and essential skills for success in school or kura. While not compulsory, 96.8% of children attend ECE.

Primary and secondary education are the second levels of education in New Zealand. State schools offer free education between ages 5 and 19, while compulsory education is from 6 to 16.

Secondary education focuses on a broad, balanced curriculum with some specialization in Years 11-13. The National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) is the national senior secondary school qualification, typically assessed during the last three years of school.

For further education and vocational learning, students can study towards NCEA Level 1-3 or Level 1-3 certificates at tertiary providers free of charge.

The national anthem of New Zealand is “God Defend New Zealand” (in Māori: “Aotearoa”), sung in both English and Māori. It was officially recognized in 1977 alongside the original national anthem, “God Save the Queen.” Although both anthems have equal legal status, “God Defend New Zealand” is more commonly used.

Both versions celebrate New Zealand’s beauty, unity, and aspirations for peace and prosperity. Originally written as a poem, it was set to music as part of a competition in 1876. Over the years, its popularity increased, and it was eventually named the second national anthem in 1977. It has English and Māori lyrics with slightly different meanings. Since the late 1990s, the usual practice in public is to perform the first verse of the national anthem twice, first in Māori and then in English.

ENGLISH VERSION

God of nations! at Thy feet
In the bonds of love we meet,
Hear our voices, we entreat,
God defend our Free Land.
Guard Pacific's triple star,
From the shafts of strife and war,
Make her praises heard afar,
God defend New Zealand.

Men of ev'ry creed and race
Gather here before Thy face,
Asking Thee to bless this place,
God defend our Free Land.
From dissension, envy, hate,
And corruption guard our State,
Make our country good and great,
God defend New Zealand.

Peace, not war, shall be our boast,
But, should foes assail our coast,
Make us then a mighty host,
God defend our Free Land.
Lord of battles in Thy might,
Put our enemies to flight,
Let our cause be just and right,
God defend New Zealand.

Let our love for Thee increase,
May Thy blessings never cease,
Give us plenty, give us peace,
God defend our Free Land.
From dishonour and from shame
Guard our country's spotless name
Crown her with immortal fame,
God defend New Zealand.

Māori Version:
Aotearoa

Ona mano tangata
Kiri whero, kiri ma,
Iwi Maori Pakeha
Repeke katoa,
Nei ka tono ko nga he
Mau e whakaahu ke,
Kia ora marire
Aotearoa

Waiho tona takiwa
Ko te ao marama;
Kia whiti tona ra
Taiawhio noa.
Ko te hae me te ngangau
Meinga kia kore kau;
Waiho i te rongo mau
Aotearoa

Tona pai me toitu;
Tika rawa, pono pu;
Tona noho, tana tu;
Iwi no Ihoa.
Kaua mona whakama;
Kia hau te ingoa;
Kia tu hei tauira;
Aotearoa

E Ihoa Atua,
O nga Iwi Matoura,
Ata whaka rongona;
Me aroha noa.
Kia hua ko te pai;
Kia tau to atawhai;
Manaakitia mai

1. Passport

All visitors to New Zealand must have a valid passport for at least three months after departure, and non-New Zealand or Australian citizens may need a visa or New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA). Passengers entering New Zealand should complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration.

2. Visa

Non-New Zealand or Australian citizens may need a visa or NZeTA to transit through New Zealand. Most travelers obtain an NZeTA and pay the International Visitor Conservation Levy (IVL).

Visa exemptions exist for New Zealand citizens, Australian citizens on an Australian passport, Australian residents with a current resident return visa, or citizens of countries with visa waiver agreements with New Zealand.

The Immigration Act 1987 aims to regulate immigration to New Zealand. It marked a shift away from discriminatory practices based on race or nationality. The Act outlined rules for obtaining permits or exemptions to be in New Zealand. It addressed requirements for employment, study, and training. The Act introduced provisions for expressions of interest in residence and invitations to apply for residence.

There are two main categories of New Zealand visas: Temporary Class Visas and Residence Class Visas.

1. The New Zealand Temporary Visas are intended for visitors looking to stay in New Zealand for shorter periods to visit family, engage in tourism, take study courses of three months or less, or conduct short business trips.

There are many types of New Zealand Temporary Visas available, and many types of Temporary Visas have further sub-types.

The following are the main types of New Zealand Temporary Visas:

• Working Holiday Visa
• Work To Residence Visa
• Family Visa
• Partnership Visa
• Student Visa
• Visitor Visa (Tourist visa)

2. Permanent Resident Visa

New Zealand is a long-term immigration option that allows individuals to live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely. It is usually the next step after being granted a Resident Visa. Resident Visas have travel conditions that only allow a person to re-enter New Zealand as a resident until a certain date; a Permanent Resident Visa allows indefinite re-entry to New Zealand.

A New Zealand Permanent Resident Visa (PRV) gives holders permission to live, work, and study in New Zealand permanently without the travel or other restrictions that can be attached to other resident visas. Applications are generally open to anyone with a New Zealand resident visa for at least two years. If you have been resident in New Zealand for at least five years, you may be eligible to apply instead for New Zealand citizenship.

Permanent residents in New Zealand enjoy rights and privileges such as:

● You can live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely.
● You can travel to and from New Zealand anytime you like.
● You can include your partner and dependent children aged 24 and under in your visa application.
● You can work and study without any restrictions.
● Access to publicly funded healthcare services.
● Eligibility for social services and benefits available to New Zealand residents.
● You can buy and own property in New Zealand.
● Unlimited travel to and from New Zealand.
● You can sponsor family members for residence.
● Access to New Zealand’s education system.
● PRV holders can eventually apply for New Zealand citizenship after meeting additional criteria.

The documents required for PRV application may vary depending on your circumstances. In general, you will need to provide the following documents:

● A valid passport
● Evidence of your current visa status
● Proof of your identity
● Proof of your relationship status (if applicable)
● Evidence of your English language proficiency
● Evidence of your qualifications and work experience
● Police certificates from all the countries you have lived in for more than 12 months in the last ten (10) years.

Citizenship applications are assessed by the Department of Internal Affairs, not the Immigration New Zealand. They involve submitting an application in the prescribed manner, followed by an official ceremony in which the applicant takes an oath or affirmation of allegiance to New Zealand.

1. Citizenship by Birth:

○ If you were born in New Zealand before January 1, 2006, you are automatically a New Zealand citizen by birth.
○ If you were born in New Zealand on or after January 1, 2006, you are a citizen only if at least one of your parents was either a New Zealand citizen or had a visa allowing indefinite residence in New Zealand.
○ Your children born in New Zealand are automatically New Zealand citizens; their citizenship is registered when you register their birth.
○ Children born outside New Zealand can register as citizens by descent.

2. Citizenship by Descent:

a. You may be eligible for citizenship by descent if:

i. You were born overseas.
ii. At least one of your parents was a New Zealand citizen by birth or grant when you were born.
b. You must register for citizenship to become an official citizen and obtain a passport.
c. As a citizen by descent, you cannot pass citizenship to children born outside New Zealand; they must apply for New Zealand citizenship by grant.

3. Citizenship by Grant:

a. You might be eligible for citizenship by grant if:
i. You were born outside New Zealand.
ii. You were born in New Zealand on or after January 1, 2006, to parents who were not New Zealand citizens or permanent residents.

To check the progress of your application, check out the link services.govt.nz. Once your New Zealand citizenship is approved, you must attend a citizenship ceremony.

Permanent residents and New Zealand citizens can sponsor their family members for permanent residency in New Zealand. The following are the qualified beneficiaries depending on the status of the petitioner:

1. Permanent Residents

● Spouse
● Unmarried children

2. New Zealand Citizens

● Partner
● Children and their spouses and unmarried children under 17 or younger and 18 to 24 years of age
● Parent and Grandparents

In New Zealand, several laws affect spouses and partners in different types of relationships.

1. Marriage and Civil Unions

○ Marriage is a legally recognized relationship between two people, regardless of their sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
○ A civil union is similar to marriage and has the same rights and obligations under the law. Couples can enter a civil union regardless of their sex.
○ Both marriage and civil unions legally end when the Family Court issues a Dissolution (divorce) Order.
○ Different rules apply for dividing property based on whether the marriage or civil union lasted less than three years or more than three years.

2. De Facto Relationships

○ In most cases, the law covers only couples who have lived together in a de facto relationship for at least 3 years.
○ However, exceptions exist:

■ If there is a child involved.
■ If one partner has made a significant contribution to the relationship.
○ The court considers various factors to determine if two people are in a de facto relationship:

■ Duration of the relationship
■ Shared home
■ Sexual relationship
■ Financial and property arrangements
■ Dependence on each other
■ Ownership, use, and purchase of property
■ Commitment to a shared life
■ Care and support of children
■ Household duties
■ Public recognition as a couple
■ No legal steps are needed to begin or end a de facto relationship

3. Property Division

○ Under the Property (Relationships) Act, if a couple has been in a qualifying relationship (marriage, civil union, or de facto) for three years or more, all relationship property is generally divided equally.
○ Relationship property includes assets acquired during the relationship.
○ Understanding your rights and obligations regarding property division when a relationship ends is essential.

4. Spousal Support and Maintenance

○ New Zealand law does not explicitly provide for spousal support or alimony.
○ However, in some cases, a court may order maintenance if one partner is financially dependent on the other.
○ Maintenance aims to ensure fairness and prevent undue hardship.

Shine Helpline for Domestic Abuse
0800 456 450

Women’s Refuge Crisis Line
0508 744 633 31

Family Violence Line
0800 456 450

In emergencies, victims may call 111 or the local police department for immediate assistance.

Under section 161 of the Immigration Act 2009, the following are some of the legal bases for deportation in New Zealand:

● stay in New Zealand beyond the expiry date of your visa
● breach other conditions of your visa
● conviction for a criminal offense
● false or misleading information had been provided
● relevant information had been withheld in any prior application or request you submitted or in which you were included

● visa expires, and you don’t renew it
● visa overstay by more than 28 days
● work without a valid work visa
● study without a valid student visa
● breach the conditions of your visa
● deemed to be a risk to national security

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) serves Deportation Liability Notices (DLN) and Deportation Orders, where appropriate, to people who may be liable for deportation because of criminal activity, other public interest factors, or being unlawfully in New Zealand. In most cases, people have 42 days from the date they became liable for deportation to appeal against deportation on humanitarian grounds to the Immigration and Protection Tribunal (IPT) after first becoming unlawful. During this appeal period, they can only be deported if they agree to waive their appeal rights. A DLN will provide information about any applicable appeal rights and periods.

1. Working Hours

New Zealand employees work an average of five days, at most 40 hours a week. Over 40 hours, the employee is entitled to overtime pay with at least a 50% increase from regular pay per hour. Most companies operate between Mondays to Saturdays except for those who provide vital services to the public. Employees who report to work on Sundays or holidays are compensated either with pay or time off. Compensation, pay, and overtime regulations may vary per state, industry, or sector.

International students are not allowed to be self-employed. You must work for an employer and have an employment agreement. On a student working visa, you can usually work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time over the holidays.

2. Minimum wages

The Wages Protection Act 1983 (WPA) is a New Zealand law that sets out how wages must be paid and prevents unlawful deductions from wages. The WPA applies to all employers and employees in New Zealand, regardless of industry or occupation. All wages owed to an employee in New Zealand must be payable in money.

The Minimum Wage Act 1983 is a New Zealand law that prescribes the minimum rate of wages for workers. The minimum wage applies to all employees, regardless of their type of work, contract, or payment method. Employees must be paid at least the minimum wage for every hour worked unless they have a higher rate in their employment agreement. The minimum wage is set by the government and may change from time to time.

3. Leaves

Employees get at least four weeks (20 days) of paid annual leave annually. Annual leave is accrued every full year with the company rather than the calendar year. Employees can take up to two consecutive weeks or all at once under exceptional circumstances. Unused holidays are automatically carried over, but employers may request they be used within the year accrued. Employees may exchange one week of leave for cash.

Primary career leave

In New Zealand, maternity leave is known as primary carer leave or parental leave and is available for employees who are:

● Pregnant, a new mother or their partner
● An adoptive parent
● A Home for Life parent
● Whāngai or foster parent
● A grandparent with full-time care
● A permanent guardian

The length of leave depends on how long the employee has been employed by the same employer, as follows:

● Six months before the due date: 26 weeks of paid primary carer leave and a further four weeks of unpaid extended parental leave
● Twelve months before the due date: 26 weeks of paid primary carer leave and 26 weeks of unpaid extended parental leave.

The employee is entitled to 10 days of unpaid leave for pregnancy-related appointments. The employee can start their primary carer leave up to six weeks (or earlier with the employer's consent) before the child's arrival date. The weekly payment for the primary carer leave is funded by the government.
Types of leave accepted in New Zealand:

● Sick leave
● Miscarriage leave
● Partner’s leave
● Bereavement leave (also injury)
● Volunteer defense force leave
● Domestic violence leave
● Jury service leave
● Stress leave

4. Retirement Age

In New Zealand, people can receive Superannuation at 65 but can continue working. New Zealand has no compulsory retirement age, and you can continue to work full- or part-time and still receive Superannuation payments. It is illegal for an employer to discriminate against you because of your age in the employment process or during your time with an organization.

5. Labor Agreement

The Human Rights Act 1993 (HRA) and the Employment Relations Act 2000 (ERA) help to ensure all workplaces are safe and fair. Both acts cover the many forms of discrimination regarding sexual harassment, employment, and unjust treatment in the workplace. While the policies mainly protect employees, they also go beyond to protect job applicants, contractors, and people associated with them, such as friends, family, and carers.

Employers must get their businesses and jobs accredited before they can employ migrants. To get accredited, they go through a financial and business background check. Accredited employers can then offer their approved jobs to suitable migrants. Employer Accreditation is mandatory for employers wanting to hire migrant workers, and it is accompanied by the new Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). INZ must accredit employers who wish to employ migrant workers. AEWV holders on Immigration’s green list can potentially apply for the Straight to Residence Visa or residency after two years, depending on what role they have filled; these are called the Work to Residence or Highly Paid Residence Visa. INZ does the usual visa checks before final approval of the AEWV.

In New Zealand, federal anti-discrimination laws ensure fairness, equality, and protection for all individuals.

Here is an overview of these laws:

1. Human Rights Act 1993 This act safeguards people in New Zealand from unlawful discrimination. The prohibited grounds of discrimination include:

● Sex: This includes pregnancy and childbirth
● Marital status: Covers being single, married, in a civil union, or in a de facto relationship
● Race: Protects against discrimination based on race or ethnicity
● Age: Ensures fairness regardless of age
● Sexual orientation: Prevents discrimination based on sexual orientation

2. The Human Rights Commission handles complaints related to discrimination, and if necessary, the Human Rights Review Tribunal can take further action.

Areas Covered by Anti-Discrimination Laws:

● Employment: Protects against discrimination in the workplace
● Housing: Ensures fair treatment when applying for flats or rental properties
● Consumer Transactions: Applies when buying goods or services from shops
● Government Departments: Ensures equal treatment when dealing with government agencies.

3. Harassment and Incitement

● The Human Rights Act specifically prohibits sexual and racial harassment
● It also bans inciting racial disharmony.

4. Employment Relations Act 2000

● This act deals with employment relationships, collective bargaining, and dispute resolution.
● It covers income tax rates, deductions, and compliance requirements.

The Director of the Office of Human Rights Proceedings and Human Rights Review Tribunal is responsible for enforcing laws on workplace discrimination. The redress system for federal workers seeks to protect these employees against arbitrary agency actions and prohibited personnel practices, such as discrimination or retaliation for whistleblowing.

New Zealand's social security system is based on residence. That is, in order to receive a payment, a person must have lived in New Zealand for a specific period of time and be a resident. Work and Income New Zealand provides more information on New Zealand benefits.

New Zealand Superannuation

NZS is New Zealand's equivalent to the Australian Age. Under the Agreement, NZS is paid to people who have reached the qualifying age for NZS or the qualifying age for the Australian Age, whichever is the higher age. Although the payment is not generally income tested, any foreign benefit is directly deducted from the rate payable. Additional assistance is available to those who qualify.

Supported living payment

Supported living payment assists people who have or are caring for someone with a health condition, injury, or disability.

Veteran's pension

This benefit is paid to ex-service people who have reached the qualifying age for NZS and receive a war disablement pension of at least 70% level of disability. People younger than the qualifying age for NZS can receive this benefit if they cannot work due to disability.

An IRD number is your unique taxpayer identifier issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD). It has eight or nine digits. It is the New Zealand equivalent of a United States social security number or an Australian tax file number. Generally, you need an IRD number to earn money in New Zealand. Having one ensures that your employer and bank can tax you properly for any money you earn. An IRD number uniquely identifies you for all tax-related matters.

Opening a bank account from abroad should be one of your concerns. To be eligible to do this, you’ll need a work or resident visa, regardless of where you are coming from. Fortunately, it’s straightforward to open an account online before you move, but the downside is that some banks don’t offer full account functionality until you’ve moved to New Zealand and confirmed your local address with them.

Here is a guide to open a bank in New Zealand:

1. Choose a bank or a provider to open an account with account features and fees vary widely, so picking the right one for you will require some research. Look at a mix of big high-street bank brands and more modern alternatives to find the right match for you.

2. Make sure that you are eligible to open an account with them. Different accounts have eligibility criteria, including a credit check, minimum salary or deposit requirements, or proof of student or employment status.

3. Choose the right account for yourself. By comparing a few different accounts, you can find one that offers the services you need conveniently and with low fees for frequent transactions.

4. Gather the required documentation. Standard bank accounts require several documents to get started. Make sure you know your preferred provider's needs and have everything to hand before you start your application.

5. Apply to open an account: Finally, you can apply online, in the app, by phone, or in a branch. Depending on how you apply, you’ll get your account paperwork and card in person or through the post a little later.

Before deciding, compare the different services offered by different banks, including different bank accounts. For convenience, compare different services available like phone, mobile, and e-banking. Read carefully the terms and conditions before signing.

The emergency service in New Zealand is 111. If you need help from the police, fire service, or an ambulance, dial 111, and the emergency operator will connect you to the right place.

Other free and confidential helplines for support:

Safe to Talk (Sexual Harm Helpline)
Telephone number: 0800 044334 or text: 4334

Rape Crisis: 0800 88 33 00

Oranga Tamariki line (concerns about children and young people)
Telephone number: 0508 326 459

The local community is also a good source of essential services that include public schools, police, fire department, local courts, hospitals and animal or pest control centers, and community organizations called the Social Service Providers Aotearoa that strengthens the social sector through advocacy and engagement, learning and development, relationships and sector leadership. These organizations offer a range of services, from public services intended to provide support and assistance towards particular groups (https://www.sspa.org.nz/).

Senior citizens in New Zealand may enjoy various services and benefits while staying in the country. The officeforseniors.govt.nz website offers a pool of government resources for senior citizens in New Zealand, such as NZ superannuation, financial assistance, health and well-being, housing, retirement, and more.

New Zealand has pre-purchased English Language Tuition (PELT). This program enables eligible new migrants to participate in English language courses, helping them to settle into communities and work.

PELT also offers various English courses to suit your time commitments. Their courses focus on skills for everyday living in New Zealand. They have over seven years of experience delivering English courses and have created a range of courses and teaching methods to help you improve your English.

The Driver License Register (DLR) is a national register of all driver licenses in New Zealand and includes any convictions for traffic offenses. Your New Zealand driver's license verifies who you are, states the vehicles you can drive, and lists any conditions you must meet when driving.

Visitors do not need a New Zealand driver's license to drive in New Zealand, but you must meet some conditions.

You can legally drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months if you have a driver's license from your home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP). After 12 months, you are required to convert to a New Zealand license. This applies to each visit to New Zealand.

If your license is from a non-exempt country, you must pass theory and practical driving tests.

Getting your car driver's license in New Zealand is a 3-step process. You need to pass tests to achieve each driver's license stage. Each stage has an application process and a testing process, which takes place at your local Waka Kotahi agent or driver testing center.

The three stages to getting a driver's license are:

1.) Learner license - to get a learner license, you need to be at least 16 years old and pass a road rules theory test. Your learner license will expire after ten years. After this period, you need to renew it if you want to continue to drive.

2.) Restricted license - to get a restricted license, you must be at least 16 1/2 years old, have a current learner license, and have held the learner license for at least six months. You should practice supervised driving and pass a practical test during this time. Your restricted license will expire after five years. You can renew it at the end of this time to continue driving.

3.) Full license - To get your full license, you must be at least 18 years old (or 17 and a half years if you have completed an approved advanced driving course). You need to have a current restricted license and have held your restricted license for at least three, six, 12, or 18 months (depending on your age and whether you have completed an approved course) and pass a practical test.

In New Zealand, there’s a minimum age before you can hold a driver's license class. If you are under 18, you can only convert your overseas license to the equivalent age-related New Zealand license class.

Embassy of the Philippines in Wellington, New Zealand

● Address: 50 Hobson Street, Thorndon, Wellington, New Zealand 6601 Wellington, New Zealand 6144
● Telephone: (+644) 8903741; (+644) 8903742; (+644) 8903744
● Fax: (+644) 8903740
● Cellphone (Emergency Hotline 24/7): (+64) 022 074 6517
● E-mail: wellington.pe@philembassy.org.nz
● Website: www.philembassy.org.nz

Philippine Consulate General - Auckland, New Zealand

● Address: Ground Floor, 22 Dundonald Street, Eden Terrace 1021
● E-mail: consulate.auckland@philembassy.org.nz
● Website: www.philembassy.org.nz

Philippine Consulate General - Christchurch, New Zealand

● Address: 150 Lichfield Street, Christchurch Central, Christchurch, New Zealand Christchurch, New Zealand 8011
● Email: consulate.christchurch@philembassy.org.nz
● Facebook: Office of the Philippine Honorary Consulate in Christchurch

Philippine Consulate General - Suva, Fiji

● 62 Ratu Sukuna Road, Nasese, Suva, Fiji, GPO Box 12408
● Telephone: +6799324590
● Email: consulate.suva@philembassy.org.nz

Internet Sources

(n.d). National Geographic. Retrieved on 27 March 2024
Website: https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/geography/countries/article/new-zealand

(2024). Britannica. Retrieved on 27 March 2024
Website: https://www.britannica.com/place/New-Zealand

(2023). Statz NZ. Retrieved on 27 march 2024
Website: https://www.stats.govt.nz/

(2020). Statz NZ. Retrieved on 27 March 2024.