PASSPORT
A valid passport is required which must be valid beyond the length of your intended stay.
VISAS
Are not required for New Zealand passport holders. If travelling on other than a New Zealand passport you may require an entry visa into Australia and a re-entry permit for New Zealand. You are strongly recommended to check with your travel agent.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Look out for the blue and yellow ‘i’ sign as you travel around Victoria. The sign is a pointer to a Visitor Information Centre, part of a network of accredited information centers across the state. Open seven days a week (except Good Friday and Christmas Day) the Visitor Information Centers are staffed by friendly, professional people with extensive local knowledge. They can provide reliable information on attractions, activities and events or give up-to-the-minute advice on travel in the area.
INSURANCE
You are strongly advised to take out travel insurance available from your travel agent.
QUARANTINE & CUSTOMS
The standard customs rules apply but of particular mention here is the quarantine relating to animal and plant products. For environmental and health reasons, these goods are unpopular, you will need to declare possession of these items or risk getting caught and fined. For those with babies, milk powder is allowed, but this is limited to only one tin, and it has to be a brand new, unopened tin.
GOODS & SERVICES TAX
GST is payable on most, but not all, goods and services. GST paid on goods being exported from Australia may be able to be claimed back at the International Airport when you have cleared Customs and Immigration. Receipts must be produced and strict rules apply. Refer to the information available from your travel agent.
HOTEL CHECK-IN PROCEDURES
Although you have prepaid your accommodation in New Zealand, upon check-in at your hotel you will be asked for either an imprint of your credit card or a cash deposit. This is standard practice and is used as a deposit against incidental charged to your hotel room e.g., room service, telephone calls, beverages, tours, etc.
HOTEL CHECK-IN TIMES
Please refer to the accommodation options given for the check-in time for each property. The time given allows for rooms to be cleaned and prepared for guest arrival. If you are arriving on an early flight you may not be able to access your room immediately upon arrival. In order to guarantee immediate occupancy you should ask your travel agent to book an additional night to cover the night prior to arrival. This ensures your room is unoccupied until your arrival.
CLIMATE
Victoria is in a temperate climate zone. Average summer temperature ranges from 19°C to 26°C. In winter the average ranges from a minimum of 13°C to 17°C.
ART & CULTURE
From cutting-edge architecture and blockbuster musicals to art exhibitions and popular festivals, Melbourne is a city where cultural pursuits are woven into the fabric of everyday life. Regional Victoria also boasts a flourishing arts scene, with impressive galleries, museums, and heritage buildings. Check with your travel agent to find out what shows or festivals are on during your stay to make the most out of your stay.
SHOPPING
Walking is the best way to shop, especially along Melbourne city’s arcades and laneways. Outside the city centre, visit shopping precincts like Chapel Street in South Yarra, Acland Street in St Kilda, Brunswick Street in Fitzroy, and Victoria Markets in the city, especially on weekends. Travelling between Melbourne’s suburbs is best done by tram, although you’ll need a car to visit larger suburban malls like Chadstone, where many of the major retailers are found.
SPEED LIMITS
50km/hour in residential areas, 60km/hour on local throughfares and 100km/hour on highways, or as indicated.
THE MET
Melbourne has an integrated system of trains, trams and buses, known as The Met. A range of tickets covering three metropolitan zones can be purchased from vending machines at train stations, on trams or buses, or pre-purchased at selected shops such as newsagents. Day passes can be purchased on the tram and allow you on and off as many times as you like for the duration of the pass. |
TRAVELLER'S FACTS
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