SIARAN JPMNZ 1/2008 TRAVELLING WITHIN NEW ZEALAND

TRAVELLING WITHIN NEW ZEALAND

DURING THE WINTER SEMESTER BREAK 2008

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Dear Students,

Due to the current extreme and unpredictable weather conditions in New Zealand, we would like to remind and advise you to take extra precaution when travelling anywhere in both North and South Island in New Zealand during the winter break.

Please be aware that the road design and conditions in New Zealand are different from Malaysia. We note that exploring the country during the holidays will be a valuable experience for your future. Experiencing different culture, meeting different people and exploring the country will invariably make you wiser. However, safety should always be your priority.

In view of the adverse unpredictable weather conditions, we strongly discourage you from driving. Since safety is our priority we would advise you to use public transportation.

However, if you decide to drive, we would advise you to seek as much information as you can about the weather conditions during this season. We do understand that driving in New Zealand, is no more hazardous than driving anywhere else in the world , however, it is different not similar to driving in Malaysia.

Attached, you will find some information from the link below:

1. http://www.snowreports.co.nz/.

2. http://www.fourcorners.co.nz/new-zealand/driving/

3. http://www.newzealand.com/travel/getting-to-around-nz/transport/driving-in-nz/driving-in-new-zealand-home.cfm

Some advice and common sense:

1. Please ensure that the designated driver has adequate experience in driving in New Zealand. Your driving experience in Malaysia is not totally applicable in New Zealand. Do remember driving is not by ‘trial and error’. If lacking confidence, take the bus or train or even the plane if you can afford it. These types of transportation are much safer and the drivers have more experience and are better skilled. They are also more familiar with the road conditions here.

2. Please ensure that you have a valid driving license and it has been translated into English and endorsed by the High Commission. Having a motorcycle license is not a license for you to drive a car. We know it sounds awkward but there have been cases when such licenses have been misused!

3. If you are hiring a car, check the rental agreements before you proceed. You must be at least 21 years old to rent a car in New Zealand. Make sure you buy the insurance and also consider paying extra to remove the high insurance excess.

4. Try to restrict driving to daylight hours. This is common sense wherever you drive since road signs are easier to read, road hazards are easier to see and avoid as there are more cars traveling on the same road, and therefore there is less chance of anything untoward happening.

5. Be aware that not all roads are in the best of conditions. Although the roads in New Zealand are in fairly good condition, they all have their share of pot holes and ruts to be careful about.

6. In winter some roads may be treacherous due to ice or snow, particularly around mountain passes. Look out for signs indicating slippery surfaces in winter and drive slowly - do not brake suddenly on ice. In some cases chains may be required (rental cars usually come with chains supplied). Make sure you're familiar with how to fit them.

7. Don't underestimate driving times. Although distances may seem short, New Zealand roads often include hilly, narrow or winding terrain, which slow down your journey. If you're used to driving in the city, take care when driving on the open country roads, and watch out for single-lane bridges.

8. Wear your seat belts, front and back seats. Wanting to be free and happy roaming the country will not guarantee a safe journey.

9. Get plenty of sleep before a long drive. Take regular breaks - one every two hours and when you get sleepy.

10. Never drive if you are feeling tired. Through experience, we all know that when we are tired even half way through studying for an examination we can easily fall asleep. Just imagine what would happen if you are behind the wheels. Remember you are responsible for your passengers’ life; you know your life is not their responsibility because throughout the trip all of them will end up sleeping; and you will be left alone manning the vehicle. So, it is also wise to get a co-driver, one who will stay awake.

11. In the case of emergency, please call 111 Telecom landline or 112 from your Vodafone to get to the relevant authorities. Please contact us as soon as possible or contact your friends so they would be able to inform us.

Finally, we do hope you have safe trips anywhere you go during this winter break in New Zealand or outside the country. Do inform us of your plan. Thank you to those who have sent us your winter plan.

Finally, we look forward to seeing some of you in Wellington for the BERSATU GAMES 2008.

Malaysian Students Department in New Zealand

High Commission of Malaysia in New Zealand

June 26, 2008