We love helping our guests discover New Zealand.
One of the things we enjoy most is sharing our little corner of Aotearoa with visitors from around the world. We hope these local tips and travel essentials help you spend less time worrying about the details and more time enjoying your journey.
To make planning a little easier, we've gathered together some practical information, local tips and useful travel advice to help you feel prepared before you arrive in New Zealand.
At Breakers, you are welcomed by hosts whose lives are deeply connected to this land and coastline.
Their knowledge, care, and love for this place shape every guest experience.
Jan & Stephen
Ansel & Emma, Resident
Breakers Boutique Hosts
Driving in Aotearoa (New Zealand)
We drive on the left-hand side of the road.
Distances can take longer than expected due to winding roads.
Watch for one-lane bridges on the West Coast.
Allow plenty of time and stop often to enjoy the scenery.
Breakers Boutique Accommodation is located on The Great Coast Road.
Language & Te Reo Māori
English is the everyday language of New Zealand. Te Reo Māori (our Indigenous language) is also spoken and referenced throughout the country.
Below are some common phrases.
Kia Ora
Hello
Haere Mai
Welcome
Nau Mai
Welcome
Mōrena
Good Morning
Aotearoa
New Zealand
(Land of the Long White Cloud)
Kai
Food
Whānau
Family
Pounamu
Greenstone | Jade
Aroha
Love
Ka Kite
See You Later | Farewell
Weather on the Coast
New Zealand's seasons are the opposite of those in the Northern Hemisphere. Summer runs from December to February, autumn from March to May, winter from June to August, and spring from September to November.
The West Coast is known for its ever-changing weather, so it's not uncommon to experience sunshine, rain and everything in between in a single day. We recommend packing layers and a light waterproof jacket, whatever the season.
Mobile Phone Coverage
Like many of New Zealand's remote coastal and alpine regions, mobile phone coverage around Breakers is limited to unavailable. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, so you'll still be able to stay connected during your stay.
If you're planning to explore beyond Greymouth, we recommend enabling satellite messaging on your smartphone before you travel.
Many newer Apple and Android devices support satellite emergency features, providing extra peace of mind when travelling through New Zealand's more remote landscapes.
New Zealand Time Zone
New Zealand is one of the first countries in the world to welcome each new day. We operate on a single time zone throughout the country and are 12 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) during winter.
In summer, clocks move forward one hour for Daylight Saving Time (DST), making New Zealand 13 hours ahead of GMT
Currency & Payments
New Zealand’s currency is the New Zealand dollar (NZD). A 15% Goods and Services Tax (GST) is already included in displayed prices, and visitor tax refunds are generally unavailable.
Credit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted, although carrying a small amount of cash can be useful when travelling through more remote areas.
Tipping in NZ is not expected
Safety & Travel Advice
New Zealand has no snakes or dangerous land animals, but there are a few things to keep in mind while travelling.
The sun can be extremely strong, so use sunscreen, wear a hat and seek shade during the hottest part of the day. West Coast weather can also change quickly, so pack layers and a waterproof jacket.
Take care around beaches, rivers and lakes, follow local safety advice and swim between the flags where lifeguards are present.
Sandflies are also common in some areas.
Can pay to have some relief cream, such as an antihistamine, as well as repellent
Power Plugs & Electricity
New Zealand uses Type I power plugs, with two or three angled pins, and operates on a 230–240 volt supply.
Visitors from overseas may need a travel adapter, and some appliances may also require a voltage converter.
We recommend checking your devices before travelling.
Food & Drink
New Zealand is a food lover's paradise, renowned for its fresh, locally sourced produce and world-class wines.
Our clean land and surrounding oceans provide exceptional lamb, venison, seafood, seasonal fruit and vegetables, while passionate farmers, growers and chefs showcase the very best of Aotearoa.
During your travels, be sure to sample local favourites such as West Coast whitebait, fresh seafood, venison, lamb, and the iconic pavlova.
Pair your meal with one of New Zealand's world-class wines or a locally brewed craft beer for a true taste of the region.
