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A Guide for New Settlers

This guide is intended for people who have recently moved to New Plymouth District from overseas. We hope it will be helpful during your early months here.

1.Introducing New Plymouth District

2. Important first things to do

3. Emergency information

4. Everyday Life

5. General information

6. Other

Glossary

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1. Introducing New Plymouth

Welcome to the best little corner of New Zealand! We consider ourselves blessed to live in New Plymouth
District. Here we have the convenience of urban living while enjoying the magnificent natural environment of
the sea, mountain, hill country and plains.

In particular, we enjoy sharing the delights of our home with new arrivals. Not only do we love to see so many
new people thriving in their new environment, but we also get to see our home with fresh eyes through your experiences. The rich breadth and depth of New Zealand culture is due in no small part to the traditional customs, songs and artistic endeavours of the people of the numerous nations who have settled here. Taranaki is home to people from more than 70 nations, and our region is the richer for it.

This information booklet has been compiled by New Plymouth Settlement Support and New Plymouth District Council to help you settle here easily and get the most out of your new home. The answers to many of your questions can be found in these pages – and if you need any further help, the Settlement Support staff are available to lend a hand!

Thank you for choosing New Plymouth District as your new home. I very warmly welcome you here and I look forward to meeting you personally before too long.

Peter Tennent
New Plymouth District Mayor

New Plymouth - past and present

Past
Maori lived on the land now known as Taranaki for hundreds or even thousands of years, but invasion threats from Waikato tribes in the early 19th century saw many Maori leave the area. While they were away, the first of the English immigrants arrived in 1841.

There was objection by Maori still living in Waitara (an area just north of New Plymouth) to land being sold to Pakeha (non-Maori people), and consequently those Maori who had previously moved away returned to Taranaki to reoccupy their lands and ensure it would not be sold. Waitara saw the first shots fired in
what subsequently became the New Zealand land wars.Return to top

Present
New Plymouth District is located in the region of Taranaki, which is on the west coast of the North Island. It covers land from Mokau to Okato and includes the city of New Plymouth, the towns of Waitara, Inglewood, Urenui, Okato, Bell Block and Oakura, and many other smaller rural communities.

New Plymouth District has a population of 72,000 and is enjoying strong economic growth at more than three per cent per year. New Plymouth District is a mix of diverse cultures and contemporary styles and is becoming a popular region for visitors, businesses, migrants, refugees and their families.

Taranaki is the second largest dairy farming region in New Zealand. Dairy farming is Taranaki’s primary industry, with other significant industries being heavy and light engineering, manufacturing, horticulture and tourism. New Plymouth is also the centre of New Zealand’s oil, gas and petrochemical industry, producing the bulk of New Zealand’s petroleum and petrochemical products and contributing billions to the nation’s economy.

The district is also known for its rugged coastline, world class surfing spots, fertile farming land, major events and, of course, the majestic Mt Taranaki (also known as Mt Egmont). The district offers numerous activities: Whether it is enjoying a coffee in one of the many cafes, swimming at one of the black-sand beaches, wandering along the 7km Coastal Walkway or browsing through Puke Ariki (a fully-integrated museum and library) or taking part in a wide range of sports.

Diversity is celebrated in New Plymouth District. It is a safe, welcoming and community-orientated place to live.

Tangata whenua

The tangata whenua (people of the land) whose rohe (area) is situated in New Plymouth District have a long and rich history. Ngati Maniapoto, Ngati Tama, Ngati Mutunga, Te Atiawa, Ngati Maru and Taranaki all identify as iwi (tribes) of this district.

The ancestors of the iwi arrived in great waka (canoes) over many decades with the last migrations arriving in the Tainui, Tokomaru and Kurahaupo waka. Maori culture is an integral part of the community and is celebrated in New Plymouth District.

Mt Taranaki

Mt Taranaki stands at 2,518m. Mt Taranaki is a ‘silent volcano’ with the last recorded activity being in 1755.
Information is regularly gathered about earthquake activity and it is closely monitored by the Taranaki Civil
Defence Emergency Management Group.

There are four volcanic centres in Taranaki. Mt Taranaki and the adjoining Fanthoms Peak is the youngest volcano and became active around 130,000 years ago. The Kaitake Range has not been active for about 500,000 years while the Pouakai Range was active until around 250,000 years ago. Paritutu and the Sugar Loaf Islands date back 1.75 million years and are the region’s oldest volcanic centre.

The mountain provides an excellent playground for climbing, skiing, tramping and photography.

Visiting Mt Taranaki
Mt Taranaki has two informative visitor centres: Dawson Falls and North Egmont. The Egmont National Park has more than 300km of walking tracks, a wide variety of vegetation and more than 50 rivers and streams. Many bird species can be found in the forests surrounding the mountain.

While Mt Taranaki may look appealing on a blue-sky day, weather conditions on the mountain can change quickly. It is crucial that you are well prepared if you are planning to climb the mountain. Be sure to phone the New Plymouth i-SITE Visitor Centre (located in Puke Ariki’s North Wing) to receive up-to-date information on mountain conditions and requirements.

Dawson Falls Visitor Centre
Manaia Rd, RD 29, Kaponga, Hawera
027-443 0248

North Egmont Visitor Centre
Egmont Rd, Egmont Village
06-756 0990

Department of Conservation (DOC) website

Maori history
Maori history gives us an interesting tale of how Taranaki came to sit where he does today. According to legend, Taranaki used to sit in the centre of the North Island with other mountain gods: Tongariro, Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe. The beautiful Pihanga stood nearby and all of the mountain gods were deeply in love with her.

When Taranaki could not control his feelings and made advances towards Pihanga, Tongariro was furious! The mountains fought wildly and when peace was finally restored, Tongariro (now considerably shorter) stood near Pihanga. Taranaki was filled with grief. He tore himself from his roots and, weeping, he plunged recklessly towards the setting sun, gouging out the Whanganui River as he went and, upon reaching the ocean, turned north. While he slumbered overnight, the Pouakai Range thrust out a spur and trapped Taranaki in the place he now rests.

Taranaki still weeps for Pihanga – when the mountain is covered in mist and rain, we know that he is sad! However, the story might not end here: Legend says that one day Taranaki will return to central plateau to fight once more for the love of Pihanga.
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Climate and weather

Taranaki’s mild climate allows residents and visitors ample opportunity to enjoy the many outdoor activities on offer. Taranaki has more sunshine hours than most of the country while the rainfall is enough to keep the grass green and the fauna flourishing.

Average temperatures for New Plymouth are: summer 13ĒC to 22ĒC and winter 6ĒC to 14ĒC.
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2. Important first things to do

Getting information

Settlement Support
Settlement Support New Plymouth (SSNP), an initiative of the Department of Labour, is a local point of contact and can advise and help you settle into your new life in New Plymouth District.

Settlement Support can assist you in the following areas:

General information and advice.
Referral, orientation, coordination and support.
Housing, tenancy and property information.
Driver’s licence.
Health system.
Education.
Family issues.
Counselling.
Consumer rights.

Settlement Support can give you further information on the topics provided in this guide.

Settlement Support
Community Development Centre, Top Town Complex, Devon St East, New Plymouth
06-759 1088

Settlement Support websiteReturn to top

Citizens’ Advice Bureau
The Citizens’ Advice Bureau can provide information on an extensive range of topics. They can help with such things as:

Budgeting.
Legal issues.
Counselling.
Disputes.
Employment.
General information and advice.

Citizens’ Advice Bureau
32 Leach St, New Plymouth
06-758 9542

Citizens' Advice Bureau

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Yellow Pages and White Pages
Throughout this guide you will hear us refer to the Yellow Pages or White Pages. These are telephone directories which are updated yearly and delivered free to every home and business. If you do not have the latest copy you can request it from your local Post Shop.

The Yellow Pages is an advertising medium for businesses. It lists businesses according to category. For example: If you want to build a house you would search under builders. You will then find a list of businesses which supply building services.

The White Pages is a directory where residential and business numbers are listed in alphabetical order and also by area. These are useful for times when you are searching for a specific name of a person or business.

As well as the physical copy of the Yellow and White pages directory, you can access these directories on the internet.

Taranaki Community Directory
You may also find a list of useful clubs, organisations and activity providers in the Taranaki Community Directory.

Taranaki Community Directory

Human Rights Commission
It is illegal to discriminate on the grounds of race, ethnicity, background, sex, age, disability, religion or family status, among other things.

If you feel you have been discriminated against, you can contact the Human Rights Commission. The commission provides free and independent help to resolve your problem.

Human Rights Commission
Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch
0800-496 877

Human Rights Commission websiteReturn to top

Accommodation

There are numerous types of accommodation (real estate) in New Plymouth District including short and long-term leases, multi-share student flats, townhouses, units and family homes. Some real estate agents can assist you to find suitable rental accommodation. A fee equivalent to one week’s rent is often the charge.

When they arrive, most new migrants decide to rent a house or apartment. This gives them enough time to save money for a deposit to purchase a home, and decide where they want to live. When looking for accommodation, it is important to determine the size of the house you require, your budget and your
transportation needs. You also need to think about the school you want your children to attend because some schools have zones (see Education section.)

Properties for rent or sale are usually advertised in newspapers, particularly on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Look in the classified advertisements section. You can also visit or call a real estate agent to view their list of houses for rent for sale.

You can look under real estate agents in the Yellow Pages.

Tenancy agreement
A tenancy agreement is a written, legal contract between you and the landlord. The law states that you must have a tenancy agreement if you are in a renting situation. As they are legal documents, you should not sign any contracts unless you fully understand everything that is written in them. You can contact Tenancy Services to learn more about tenancy agreements.

Tenancy Services
0800-836 262

Tenancy Services website

Buying a house
To buy a house you can either pay the full price of the property or arrange a long-term loan or mortgage from a lender, such as a finance house or bank. The finance house or bank will look at your income, what you own, your debts and credit rating. Many will ask you to pay a percentage of the cost of the house (a deposit) from your own money.

You can look under banks and finance – mortgages and loans in the Yellow Pages.

Housing New Zealand Corporation (HNZC)
HNZC provides access to good quality, affordable homes. To be eligible for housing through HNZC you must meet certain conditions. As a migrant, to be eligible you must have lived in New Zealand for two years. If you receive an emergency benefit due to hardship, HNZC may accept your application. Quota refugees are automatically eligible for a Housing New Zealand house.

Housing New Zealand Corporation (HNZC)
Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch
0800-801 601

Housing New Zealand website Return to top

Insurance

Insurance provides financial protection against loss, harm or damage to yourself, your property or belongings. There are many types of insurance available, including house and contents, car and health. You can contact an insurance agency to learn more about different types of insurance.

You can look under insurance in the Yellow Pages.
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Tax system

Inland Revenue (IRD) is the government department that collects taxes. The New Zealand tax year runs from 1 April to 31 March. You must pay tax if you work or have a business. Employers deduct tax on salary and wages. This is known as PAYE (Pay As You Earn).

The current tax rates for individuals are as follows:

Up to $14,000 12.5 cents in the dollar
$14,001 to $40,000 21 cents in the dollar
$40,001 to $70,000 33 cents in the dollar
$70,001 and above 39 cents in the dollar

Everybody who works or owns a business in New Zealand must have an IRD number. If you are going to ask for Family Assistance, your children will also need to have IRD numbers.

Inland Revenue Department (IRD)
0800-227 774 (salary or wage earner)
0800-377 774 (self-employed or business)

Inland Revenue website Return to top

Employment

Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ)
Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ) is the government department that helps find employment for residents or those with a valid work permit. If you are a refugee you may qualify for benefit assistance while you look for work. When you register with WINZ, a case manager will give you free advice and information about job opportunities and advice on creating or updating your curriculum vitae.

Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ)
0800-559 009

WINZ website

New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)
If you have received educational qualifications in your home country, it is important to have them approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). If you want to practise a profession in New Zealand, you may need to apply for registration or membership of a professional body.

New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)
04-802 3000

NZQA website Return to top

Newspapers
Employment vacancies can be found in the classifieds section of newspapers, particularly on a Wednesday or Saturday.

Internet
There are a number of internet sites where you can search for employment vacancies. Below are just a few of the popular sites:

Agencies
Employment agencies may be able to assist you in finding a job.

You can look under employment agencies in the Yellow Pages.

Self employment
If you are planning to start your own business, you can talk to WINZ for advice.

Venture Taranaki is a local organisation that may also be able to help. Its experienced Business Development Team can give you practical support and information, assist with training needs and identify trading opportunities. Venture Taranaki offers training seminars – many of which are free.

Venture Taranaki
41-43 Molesworth St, New Plymouth
06-759 5150

Taranaki Info websiteReturn to top

Banking

To open a bank account, you will need three forms of identification (ID). One of these forms of ID must contain a photograph, such as a passport. There are many different kinds of bank accounts and you can learn more about the different types by talking to the bank directly. Many banks have multilingual call centres to help non-English speaking customers.

You can look under banks in the Yellow Pages.

There are a number of ways to bank in New Zealand. As well as branches, there are numerous automatic teller machines (ATMs) in or near banks or shopping malls around the country. They allow you to withdraw or deposit
money and check your account balance at any time of the day or night. You may also be able to use internet or telephone banking, which allow you to manage your accounts without visiting a branch. If you use electronic banking or ATMs, you will have a PIN (personal identification number) for your bank card. Never disclose your PIN to anyone.

All banks have formal complaints processes. If you have a problem, you can ask to speak to the complaints officer. If you are not happy with the way your complaint has been handled, you can contact the banking ombudsman for help.

Banking Ombudsman
0800-805 950

Banking Ombudsman website Return to top

Education

All children in New Zealand must attend school from age six to 16, but most children start at five years old. Compulsory education is divided into primary, intermediate and secondary schooling.

Children younger than six may attend an early childhood centre such as a kindergarten, play centre or day care.

Primary schools cater for children aged from five to 10 (years one to six). Children aged 11 and 12 (years seven and eight) may be in a separate intermediate school or part of a primary, secondary or composite school. Secondary schools provide for students aged from 13 to 17 (years nine to 13).

Adult students returning to school enter the year appropriate to the subjects they are studying.

Types of schools
State schools are funded through taxation. They are generally co-educational (boys and girls together) at primary, intermediate and secondary level.

Private schools are governed by their own boards and students pay fees to attend.

Boarding schools are either private or part of a state-funded school. They charge boarding fees. Students usually live at the school all week but may go home at weekends.

Correspondence schools provide distance learning education.

Home schooling is available for parents and caregivers who want to educate their children at home (criteria is set by the Ministry of Education).

Use the Ministry of Education's Team-Up's School Directory to find out information about New Zealand schools and the early childhood education listings to find out about New Zealand early childhood education (ECE) services.

School zones
Some schools have ‘zones’ within which children must reside in order to enrol in the school. If you live out-of-zone you can find out if the school has any enrolment schemes. If your child cannot attend through an enrolment scheme, you can contact the Ministry of Education, who may be able to direct the school to admit your child.

School terms
Exact dates vary from year to year, but generally the school terms are as follows:

Term 1: Late January until mid-April.
Term 2: Late April until early July.
Term 3: Mid-July until late September.
Term 4: Mid-October until mid-December.

You can look under schools in the Yellow Pages to find contact information for schools in New Plymouth District.

If you would like to learn more information about a particular school, you can look at individual school reports under the following website:

ERO website

You can contact the Ministry of Education if you would like to find out more information about the New Zealand education system.

Ministry of Education
04-463 8000

Ministry of Education websiteReturn to top

English language classes

Learning English is an important way to help you feel comfortable living in New Zealand. You can attend classes to learn or improve your English and these classes are referred to as English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL).

Settlement Support can help you find an appropriate English language course. Some courses are free but you may have to pay for others.

ESOL home tutoring is a service for adult New Zealanders whose first language is not English. Volunteers are paired with students and spend an hour each week teaching them how to communicate in English. ESOL is a free community based programme.

ESOL Home Tutoring
16 Lemon St, New Plymouth
06-759 1118

ESOL Home Tutoring website Return to top

Driver’s licence

Drivers who are new to New Zealand, people learning to drive and people wanting to gain a new licence class need to refer to the Road Code. You can buy a copy from most bookstores, read it at your public library or online. The Road Code will advise you of the laws regarding driving in New Zealand.

Road code

One important law is that all people in a car must wear a seatbelt. Children under the age of five must sit in an approved child safety seat. You can buy a child safety seat or hire one from Plunket.

Plunket
74 Courtenay St, New Plymouth
06-769 9076

Plunket website

You can drive using a current overseas licence or an international driving permit for a maximum of one year after you arrive. You must then convert your overseas licence to a New Zealand driver’s licence. You will have to pass a theory test and possibly a practical driving test, depending on the country you have come from.

In New Zealand you must carry your licence with you when driving. If your licence is not in English, it is recommended you carry an official translation with you.

The Land Transport Safety Authority (LTSA) and its driver licensing agents can help you with your licence queries.

Automobile Association (AA)
49-55 Powderham St, New Plymouth
06-968 7855

AA website

Land Transport Safety Authority (LTSA)
0800-699 000

LTSA websiteReturn to top

Healthcare

It is recommended that you find a general practitioner (GP or doctor) to provide regular health and medical care. You may choose your own GP but be aware that GPs can set their own charge rates. Children under six may visit a GP for free.

You can look under the registered medical practitioners and medical centres section in the front of the White Pages to find a GP.

Community Services Card
Permanent residents who are on a low to middle income may be eligible for a community services card from WINZ to help with the cost of prescriptions and doctors’ fees.

Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ)
0800-559 009

WINZ websiteReturn to top

3. Emergency information

Contact phone numbers

In the event of an emergency, phone 111. When you phone 111 the operator will ask you what service you need: Fire, ambulance or police. Answer any questions that you are asked as best you can, in a slow, clear voice.

It is a good idea to pin your current address above your telephone so that you can read it out in the event of an emergency. If you are ringing for an ambulance or police, tell them about landmarks near the accident
site, such as shops or intersections. This will help them to find the site.

In the case of a sudden sickness or serious accident, you can either visit an accident and emergency medical centre (A&E) or the emergency department of a public hospital. New Plymouth District’s local hospital is
called Taranaki Base Hospital and it is situated on David St, Westown.

EMERGENCY CALLS - Ambulance, Fire, Police 111

Non-emergency calls

Civil Defence 06-758 1110
Taranaki Base Hospital 06-753 6139

Police

New Plymouth Liardet St 06-769 9132
New Plymouth Powderham St 06-759 5500
Bell Block 06-755 9130
Fitzroy 06-757 3073
Inglewood 06-756 0900
Mokau 06-750 5000
Okato 06-752 4111
Waitara 06-754 9200
Westown 06-753 3476Return to top

Civil Defence emergency

A civil defence emergency is a major incident that is too big for police, fire or ambulance services to manage alone, e.g. natural disasters such as a flood.

It is advised that you keep a survival kit in your home, which includes: Torch, radio, first aid kit, batteries, candles, matches, tinned food and bottled water.

If you have to leave home during a civil defence emergency, make sure you can quickly assemble a getaway kit, which includes: Family documents, birth and marriage certificates, insurance policies, essential medicine, baby needs, towels and toilet items, blankets, food and extra clothing.

You can look in the inside cover of the Yellow Pages to learn more about Civil Defence and what to do in a disaster.Return to top

General safety advice

While New Zealand is considered to be a very safe country, it is still important that you take precautions for your safety.

Motor vehicle crime

Install an alarm in your vehicle.
Always lock your vehicle, even at a petrol station or when parked outside your house.
Always close the windows.
Do not leave any valuables in the vehicle, particularly if they can be viewed from the outside.
Park your vehicle in well-lit areas at night-time.
If your vehicle is stolen, report this to the police immediately.
When you are driving, lock your purse or wallet in the boot rather than leaving it on the seat beside you.

Prevention against burglaries in your home

Install an alarm in your house.
Install appropriate security bolts to your doors and windows.
When away from your house for a long period of time, arrange for your lawns to be mowed and your letterbox emptied so that your home appears to be occupied.
Do not hide spare keys in obvious places such as the letterbox or under a doormat.
Display your house number clearly from the street to help emergency services find the residence.
Get to know your neighbours.
If you are working in your garden and the house is unoccupied, lock the front and back doors.

When you are shopping

Do not carry large amounts of cash or multiple credit cards with you.
Do not leave your purse open or unattended in a supermarket shopping cart.
Be careful to shield the key pad when you are entering your PIN number at an ATM or EFTPOS machine so that no one else can see it. (EFTPOS means ‘electronic funds transfer point of sale’, enabling shoppers to pay for goods electronically at the store’s check-out.)
Avoid secluded or dark areas at night and, if possible, travel with other people.

Tips for children

Never accept sweets, money or gifts from a stranger.
Never accept a ride from a stranger.
Never tell anyone over the phone that you are home alone.
If you get lost in a supermarket or shopping mall, ask somebody who works there to help you find your parent/caregiver.Return to top

4. Everyday Life

Seasons

Spring: September, October, November.
Summer: December, January, February.
Autumn: March, April, May.
Winter: June, July, August.

Daylight saving

Daylight saving begins at 2am standard time on the last Sunday in September each year. All clocks are put forward one hour. Daylight saving ends at 2am standard time on the first Sunday in April of the following year. All clocks are put back one hour.

Public holidays

New Year’s Day - 1 January.
Day after New Year’s Day - 2 January.
Waitangi Day - 6 February.
Good Friday and Easter Monday - March or April (dates change yearly).
ANZAC Day - 25 April.
Queen’s Birthday - first Monday in June.
Labour Day - fourth Monday in October.
Christmas Day - 25 December.
Boxing Day - 26 December.
Taranaki Anniversary - second Monday in March (each NZ region has a separate anniversary date).Return to top

Electricity and gas

You can choose which company you would like to supply your home’s electricity and gas. You can phone the company of your choice to start the power supply from the date you want to start living in the house. You can arrange this in advance so that you have power when you first move in. When you phone any retail electricity supplier you will be asked for some kind of identification, such as your driver’s licence number, passport number or landlord’s phone number. Some companies may check your credit rating or ask for a bond.

You can look under electricity supply – retail in the Yellow Pages.

A service that may be useful is ‘consumer power switch’. This is an independent service provided by the Consumers Institute in association with the Ministry of Consumer Affairs and the Citizens’ Advice Bureau. Consumer power switch works out which power company and pricing plan is cheapest according to your location and power usage.

Consumer Power Switch websiteReturn to top

Telephones and internet

Installing a new land-line telephone
There are a range of companies that offer phone and internet connections. The three main companies are:

Telecom

Residential 123 or 0800 800123
Business 126

Telstra Clear

Residential 0508-888 800
Business 0508-555 500

Vodafone

0800 464 484 (residential)
0800 438 458 (business)

Local and international calls
When you register with a phone company, you can make national or international calls on your home phone. Alternatively, you can use phone cards to make calls.

The New Zealand country code is 0064. A list of codes for other countries can be found in the White Pages.

Each region in New Zealand has an area code. A list of area codes for each town and city is in the front of the White Pages. The area code sits in front of the regular number. For example, the Settlement Services New Plymouth phone number is 06-759 1088. When you phone a local number, you do not need to put the area code in front of the number. If your call does not go through, you need to use the area code as the place you are calling is outside the local telephone area (there is a charge for this as the call is no longer considered local).

Numbers starting with 0800 or 0508 are free from a landline.

Numbers starting with 0900 provide specialist information and entertainment services on a user-pays basis.

Internet service providers (ISPs)
There are many internet service providers (ISPs) and each company has its own rates. It is a good idea to obtain a few quotes to determine the best deal for you. Some ISPs also offer discounted international calling rates, so be sure to ask about these if you phone your home country often.

You can look under internet service providers in the Yellow Pages.

Mobile phones
Telecom and Vodafone are the most popular phone companies providing mobile phone services in New Zealand. Companies offer either prepaid or fixed term plans for mobile phones. It is a good idea to discuss the different plans before selecting and signing the contract.

When you use a mobile phone to phone a landline, you always need to add the area code whether or not the number you are calling is local.

Look under mobile phones or telecommunication services in the Yellow Pages.

Public telephones
Public telephones are located in most towns, airports and shopping malls in New Zealand. You can either use coins or cards to make a phone call. Phone cards are available from your local dairy (i.e. newsagent or corner shop) and other shops.

Language line
Language line can help people who speak little or no English to access services. You can contact six government agencies through language line:

Accident Compensation Corporation.
Department of Internal Affairs.
Housing New Zealand Corporation.
Work and Income Contact Centre.
New Zealand Immigration Service.
New Zealand Police.

The service is available in 39 languages and is free to use.

To connect with language line by telephone:

Contact the government department you want to speak to.
Ask for language line.
Tell them the language you speak.

Language Line
0800-656 656

Language Line websiteReturn to top

Water services

The majority of residential properties pay for water services as an annual charge on their rates account (see below for more information about rates). Those properties with water meters are billed six-monthly. High volume business meters are read and billed monthly. Payment of water rates can be made at New Plymouth District Council’s Civic Centre in New Plymouth, the Waitara Library and Service Centre, the Inglewood Library and Service Centre or at any branch of the Bank of New Zealand.

Contact usReturn to top

Rubbish collection

Urban rubbish collection
All residential properties within the main urban areas (and in selected rural areas) of the district receive a weekly refuse collection and kerbside recycling service. The service is paid via a targeted fee on your rates bill. Households may dispose each week of one 60L bag not exceeding 20kg and an unlimited amount of recyclable material placed in supermarket-sized plastic shopping bags (see the ‘recycling service’ information below for details).

Note: Households can have more than one rubbish bag picked up each week if every additional bag has a pre-paid ‘excess refuse’ sticker attached. These stickers can be bought from New Plymouth District Council and a variety of stores - contact the Council for more information.

You are responsible for purchasing your own purpose-made plastic or paper bag to put your rubbish in. To find out what day your rubbish is collected and further guidelines, please contact the Council.

Rural rubbish collection
If you live outside the selected rural areas for a weekly rubbish and recyclables collection, you have three options for rubbish disposal:

If you live along the normal route of the Council’s waste contractor, you can contact the contractor and ask them to pick up your rubbish bag outside your house (as long as there is a pre-paid excess refuse sticker attached to the bag).
You can contact one of several other waste collectors in the district and hire domestic or commercial size refuse collections bins.
You can transport your rubbish and recyclables to the nearest landfill or transfer station. The disposal cost per rubbish bag is $2.

Rubbish

Recycling service
Recycling is the conversion of used products into new products. Recycling is one way of reusing waste material and protecting the environment.

Paper, cardboard, aluminium and steel cans, glass bottles and jars, plastic bottles, ice cream containers and plastic bags can all be collected in the weekly kerbside rubbish and recycling collection. More information about
recyclable materials that can be collected from the kerbside is available from the Council.

Household hazardous waste
The New Plymouth Transfer Station on Colson Rd accepts domestic hazardous waste at no cost (e.g. garden sprays and chemicals, household cleaners, medicines and old fluorescent light bulbs).

New Plymouth Transfer Station Return to top

Rates

Commercial and residential property owners in New Plymouth District pay rates to New Plymouth District Council. Rates are used to fund, or assist with funding, all Council activities (e.g. road maintenance, parks, etc). The rates are calculated on the valuation of all properties and ratepayers are billed on a quarterly basis. Residential ratepayers on a low income can apply for a rates rebate. For further information on rates, please contact the Council.

RatesReturn to top

Puke Ariki (library/museum)

Puke Ariki is an award-winning library, museum and visitor information centre located in the heart of New Plymouth, next to the Tasman Sea.

There are six libraries in New Plymouth District and membership is free for all residents and ratepayers
of the district. You can contact New Plymouth District Council to find your closest library. To join the library, visit your local branch and fill out a Puke Ariki membership form. You will need to provide two forms of identification:

A document showing your name and current address, such as a bank or phone statement.
Photo identification, such as a passport or driver’s licence.

You may borrow books, magazines, videos, CDs, large-print books, cassettes and computer games from the library. Internet access is available at the library and is free to Puke Ariki members.

Puke Ariki websiteReturn to top

Transport

Bus services operate in New Plymouth, Bell Block, Waitara and Oakura. These services are run by Tranzit Coachlines, with assistance from Taranaki Regional Council. The central bus station is located on Ariki St, New Plymouth.

Tranzit Coachlines

Taxis can be ordered by phone or by hailing them at taxi stands.

You can look under taxis in the Yellow Pages.
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Postal service

New Zealand Post Shops can be found throughout New Plymouth District. They offer a wide range of services including postage, fax, private boxes and bags, change of address, vehicle licensing and bill payments. Red post boxes are also located throughout the district. Sending a standard letter to anywhere in New Zealand costs $0.50.

Post Shop
0800-501 501

New Zealand Post websiteReturn to top

Television

New Zealand has six free national television channels. You may not be able to access all six channels depending on the TV reception in your area. Sky Television (pay TV) also offers a variety of satellite and cable channels. The free channels are: One, TV2, TV3, Prime, Maori Television (bilingual programmes from New Zealand and around the world) and C4 (music).

Newspapers

The Taranaki Daily News is the daily local newspaper and can be purchased from a number of outlets including supermarkets, dairies and petrol stations. It can also be delivered to your home Monday to Saturday on subscription.

Taranaki Daily News
49-65 Currie St, New Plymouth
06-759 0808

The North Taranaki Midweek is a free local paper delivered to homes within New Plymouth District on a Wednesday (urban areas) or Thursday (rural areas).

North Taranaki Midweek
49-65 Currie St, New Plymouth
06-759 0808

In the local newspapers, you can look under public notices to find out about upcoming events in the community.

There are other national newspapers available, and most provide subscription services. The main stories from these newspapers are also available through the internet – try:

Births, deaths and marriages

The Department of Internal Affairs registers all births, deaths and marriages in New Zealand through the Registrar General.

Registering a birth
By law, every New Zealand birth should be registered as soon as possible to confirm the child as a New Zealand citizen. Birth registration is free and a birth certificate can be purchased for $30 as an official record.

Registering a death
By law, all deaths in New Zealand must be registered within three working days of the burial or cremation of the body. Death registration is free.

Registering a marriage
A marriage ceremony may be conducted by either a Registrar of Marriages or an authorised marriage celebrant. A certificate of marriage can be purchased from the registrar.

Changing your name
To register a name change you must contact Births, Deaths and Marriages and complete the appropriate form.

Births, Deaths and Marriages
0800-225 252

Births, Deaths and Marriages website Return to top

Noise

Excessive noise is any noise under human control that unreasonably interferes with the peace, comfort and convenience of others. If you are disturbed by excessive noise after 10pm you can try talking to those
responsible for making the noise. If no action is taken to reduce the noise, you can phone the Council to lodge a complaint.

To learn more about the noise control process or to lodge a complaint, you may contact the Council at any time of the day or night.

Contact usReturn to top

Pets

All dogs aged three months or more need to be registered annually. You can order the registration form from the Council.

Dogs

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is a not-for-profit voluntary organisation that provides help to animals and owners. You can contact the SPCA for information on animal care. You can also adopt a pet through the SPCA.

SPCA
75 Colson Rd, New Plymouth
06-758 2053

SPCA websiteReturn to top

Sports

New Plymouth District provides many indoor and outdoor sports opportunities and venues for sports such as swimming, golf, tennis, squash, rugby, football, netball and cricket.

You can look under sporting and recreational facilities or sport clubs and associations in the Yellow Pages.

Places of worship

There are numerous places of worship throughout New Plymouth District and many forms of religion are practiced.

You can look under churches and religious organisations in the Yellow Pages.

Shopping

Supermarkets selling food and other household goods are very accessible in New Plymouth District. Supermarkets are open seven days a week and have extended opening hours. Dairies and petrol stations also have extended opening hours, and stock household essentials such as milk and bread. They are often more expensive than supermarkets.

You can look under supermarkets and grocers in the Yellow Pages.

You can buy fresh fruit and vegetables at markets. One example is the Taranaki Farmers Market (in Currie St, New Plymouth), which runs every Sunday from 9am-midday.

The Consumers’ Institute
The Consumers’ Institute of New Zealand can provide useful advice regarding laws protecting consumers. The institute is an independent organisation and it publishes Consumer magazine which gives advice about brands and products. You can subscribe to Consumer and copies are available at the library.

Consumers’ Institute of New Zealand
04-384 7963 or 0800-266 786

Consumer website

Goods and Services Tax (GST)
In New Zealand, all goods and services incur a tax which is called GST. GST is 12.5 per cent and is always included in the price you are quoted.Return to top

Taranaki Multi-Ethnic Council

The Taranaki Multi-Ethnic Council (TMEC) was established in 1994 and aims to preserve and foster an understanding of different ethnicities and cultures. TMEC works closely with other community programmes to help immigrant families settle into the community. TMEC meets for coffee mornings in New Plymouth on the fourth Wednesday of each month.

TMEC hosts a number of events, the largest being the annual Multi-Ethnic Extravaganza, which is a fun-filled day featuring ethnic food, crafts, music and entertainment.

Taranaki Multi-Ethnic Council (TMEC)
06-753 6139
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5. General information

Electoral system (voting)

New Zealand is a democratic country in which the Members of Parliament (MPs) and local government are chosen in free and fair elections. You are eligible to vote if:

You are a citizen or permanent resident.
You have resided in New Zealand for 12 months or more.
You are 18 years or over.
You are enrolled to vote.

You can find out more information about the election process and how to enrol by contacting Elections New Zealand.

Elections New Zealand
0800-367 656

Elections New Zealand website Return to top

Making a will

A will is a legal document that helps you decide how you will provide for your family and how your affairs should be managed after your death.

Anyone over 18 can make a will. It is highly recommended but not compulsory. You can contact a lawyer to learn more about making a will.

You can look under lawyers in the Yellow Pages.
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Beach safety

New Plymouth District has many beaches offering wonderful recreational opportunities such as swimming, walking, surfing, diving, kayaking and fishing. As beautiful as our beaches may appear, they can also be dangerous and rough at times and it is crucial that you understand the principles of beach safety such as:

Swim only at lifeguard-patrolled beaches.
Always swim between the red and yellow flags.
Never swim alone or leave children unattended.
If you get into trouble, raise your arm for assistance and wait for help.

You can ask a lifeguard for more safety advice.

Taranaki Surf Life Saving Inc
Oceanview Parade, New Plymouth
06-758 2555

Taranaki Surf Life Saving website Return to top

Events

New Plymouth District hosts many exciting events including sports and concerts. To find out about upcoming events, read the newspapers, contact the Council, or view the Events Calendar.

Events CalendarReturn to top

Budgeting and money management

It is difficult to get any loan or financial help if you have a bad credit rating. A budget adviser can help you if you have difficulty negotiating or speaking in English with your creditor. They can also help you plan your finances to avoid getting into debt.

The New Zealand Federation of Family Budgeting Services provides free and confidential advice.

Family Budgeting Service
32 Leach St, New Plymouth
06-758 5996

Family Budgeting websiteReturn to top

Glossary

Below are some words and phrases that would be useful to learn for everyday conversation and making enquiries over the telephone or in person at an information centre.

AOTEAROA - Maori name for New Zealand
ACC - Accident Compensation Corporation
A&E - Accident and emergency clinic
COP - Popular name for a police officer
DAIRY - Local shop selling a wide range of food and other goods
DEFACTO - Not married but living together
DOCKET - Receipt you get when you buy something
GST - Goods and Services Tax
HAKA - Maori dance and chant
HUI - Maori word for meeting
ICEBLOCK - Sweet frozen water on a stick
INORGANIC RUBBISH - Rubbish that does not easily decompose (such as metal or plastic)
JANDALS - Open, rubber shoes with a piece between toes
JUNK MAIL - Advertising brochures put into your letterbox
KAI - Maori word for food
KIA ORA - Maori greeting
LANDLORD - Person to whom you pay rent
LEAVE - Day not worked due to holiday or sickness
LOLLY - Candy, sweets
LOTTO - Weekly lottery
MAORI - Native New Zealand people
ORGANIC RUBBISH - Rubbish that easily decomposes (such as vegetables or plants)
PAKEHA - Non-Maori people
PIN NUMBER - Personal identification number for banking
RECYCLING - Reusing waste and rubbish
SICKIE - Day away from work because of sickness
SLEEP OVER - Children staying overnight at a friend’s home
SPEED LIMIT - How fast you are allowed to drive
SPEEDING - Driving too fast
TOGS - Swimming costume or trunks
TRAMPING - Walking in the bush
U-TURN - Turning your car 180Ē
WAKA - Maori canoe
WHANAU - Maori word for family
WHEELIE BIN - Large green rubbish bin
WHITE PAGES - Telephone directory with names and addresses
YELLOW PAGES - Telephone directory with business advertisements
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Acknowledgements:

Our sincere thanks to Shivangi Pradhan, Migrants Information Coordinator at Waitakere Library and Information Services; Taranaki Employment Support Foundation; all government departments; Venture Taranaki; not-for-profit organisations and other individuals who have made significant contributions to this guide.

Disclaimer: Although every care has been taken in compiling this guide, New Plymouth District Council and Settlement Support New Plymouth accept no responsibility for errors or omissions, or the results of any actions taken on the basis of any information contained in this publication.

First Edition: April 2007
Last Updated: January 2009

Please direct queries and advise changes to information in this directory to:

Geetha Kutty
Settlement Support New Plymouth
Community Development Centre
Top Town Complex
Devon St East
New Plymouth 4310
Phone: 06-759 1088
Email: ssnp@xtra.co.nz

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Publications

Alternative viewing options:

A Guide for New Settlers

Table of contents

1. Introducing New Plymouth

New Plymouth - past and present

Tangata whenua

Mt Taranaki

Climate and weather

2. Important first things to do

Getting information

Accommodation

Insurance

Tax system

Employment

Banking

Education

English language classes

Driver’s licence

Healthcare

3. Emergency information

Contact phone numbers

Civil Defence emergency

General safety advice

4. Everyday Life

Seasons

Daylight saving

Public holidays

Electricity and gas

Telephones and internet

Water services

Rubbish collection

Rates

Puke Ariki (library/museum)

Transport

Postal service

Television

Newspapers

Births, deaths and marriages

Noise

Pets

Sports

Places of worship

Shopping

Taranaki Multi-Ethnic Council

5. General information

Electoral system (voting)

Making a will

Beach safety

Events

Budgeting and money management

Glossary

Acknowledgements:

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