October 2021

It's an interesting time in Aotearoa as most of the country goes about life with a few restrictions in place while Auckland approaches its eighth week of lockdown. We are all optimistic about the direction of the vaccine campaign, hope for use of self-isolation in place of MIQ, and the return of long days thanks to Daylight Savings Time.

This month, we're sharing:

Staying on the Right Side of the Law

When in Rome...you’re subject to Roman law. Before arriving in New Zealand, it’s a good idea to get familiar with our laws, particularly in the ways they might vary from where you’ve previously lived.

We thought we’d highlight a few places where new arrivals and returning Kiwis can unintentionally get into trouble.

• Biosecurity - Biosecurity is taken more seriously in New Zealand than just about anywhere else on Earth, and you should familiarise yourself with regulations before preparing your goods to ship to NZ or sending/receiving items.

• Speeding - Speed limits are strictly enforced. Drivers coming from the US might be particularly surprised that even a couple of kilometres over the limit will likely get you a ticket.

• Road Rules - Even if you come from a place that doesn’t require you to take a driving test before you convert your license to a NZ one, drivers should get to know the road code. Of note, NZ does not have any free turn on red at traffic lights. Be aware that traffic controls don’t always come with a warning. For example, one client was quite surprised when she received a $150 ticket for briefly mistakenly driving in a bus lane in central Auckland.

• Cycling Code - Those who get around on a bicycle should familiarise themselves with the rules relating to cycling in New Zealand.

• Alcohol Laws - The independent legal drinking age is 18 with valid ID, but under 18s can legally consume alcohol with a parent’s permission in specific circumstances, like at a restaurant. However, there is a zero alcohol limit for driving when under 20 years old. The legal alcohol limit for over 20s is 250mcg/L (breath) or 50mg/100mL (blood) while driving...including motorised scooters and bikes. Public alcohol consumption is banned in many places, including parks, sidewalks, and carparks. Actual enforcement of alcohol bans vary by time and location. Be aware that the hours when alcohol can be sold are set nationally and can be further limited by local municipalities (for example, some towns prohibit the sale of alcohol on Sundays).

• Drugs and Medication - Recreational drugs are illegal in NZ, including cannabis. Possession, use, and sale come with penalties. Note that pseudoephedrine is only available by prescription and classified as a B2 controlled substance. Similarly, melatonin is a prescription medication here.

• Firearms - If you plan to own a firearm in NZ, you’ll need to know what types are permitted and how to comply with requirements.

• Covid Health Regulations - Alert levels and restrictions are legally binding and can result in prosecution, so it’s important to follow them.
  

Every client has a different set of circumstances and different things weighing on their mind. That’s why we want to get to know you and your worries at the first instance.

One recent client had secured housing before connecting with us. Instead, the big worry on her mind was getting the family settled with their belongings on day one.

Their goods were already on their way to NZ, so we were able to set up their new home with their familiar belongings and some new essential items ahead of their arrival.

Once they were here, the family departed MIQ and went straight to their cozy new home!

Phrase of the Month: Have a crack