Vehicle Insurance

If you're renting a car or an RV (movan), you'll need a driver's license for the vehicle insurance to be valid. A United Nations agreement lets license holders drive for up to twelve months in New Zealand on their own country's license and visa versa. United States recognizes the agreement, so with a current US license from any state, you can drive whatever class vehicle you're licensed to drive in the states.



New Zealand has no-fault vehicle insurance. If you ding a mudguard, or bang your bonnet, it won't ruin your day. The authorities probably won't be involved unless there's an injury.



If you're a member of AAA in the US, bring your card. All privileges are reciprocal with the New Zealand Automobile Association (AA). You won't need personal insurance if you're touring by auto or RVing, but your AAA card will get you discounts on motels and entertainment, and best of all get you free maps not available in Tourist Information Centers that show the back roads. You'll need these if you're just nosy or plan to freedom park in an RV.



Check out AAA's sister at AA New Zealand.



The RV in the photo is a Maui Rental Van.



Lyn

What if I go Crook?

Bring Your meds. Some newer prescriptions are either under different names or not available. If something minor pops up like allergies or sore muscles, talk to the chemist. Some meds which require a doctor's prescription in the US have "pharmacist only medicine" on the box. You'll show ID, then receive the medicine after a short discussion about proper use.

If you lie about your weight and get dropped on your head bunji jumping, New Zealand has top quality medical facilities.

You won't be hassled for payment, but if you have private coverage, just pay the bill and straighten it out with your insurance carrier when you get home. Medicare won't cover you out of the country. A five day hospital stay cost 200$US. We asked for a bill and the Kiwis were surprised. They told us, "Most tourists just stick us with the bills."

New Zealand is a small country with just as many budget problems as we have. Pay your own way.

For vitamins, so you can avoid that trip to the hospital, bring your own if you have a special brand, or buy them in a health food store or chemist shop.

Lyn