The closest major international airport is Auckland Airport (AKL) which is approximately 1.5 hours from Hamilton Central. Most visitors will require either a visa or an NZeTA. Please refer to the New Zealand Government website to understand what you require to travel to New Zealand. 

Submit your visa application as early as possible. 

Conference organisers can provide invitation letters if needed. 

Transport options from Auckland to Hamilton include:

• shuttle services

• rental cars 

• InterCity Bus services

Bookings are essential in all cases. 

Transport options from Hamilton city to The Pā, University of Waikato:

• public transport

• taxi/rideshare

It is recommended for conference attendees to stay in the Hamilton City Centre or near the University of Waikato. Check public transport options before making any reservations, unless hiring a car. 

Conference hotel/shuttle: to be announced. 

For many international delegates, the journey to New Zealand is a long one, and we encourage visitors to make the most of their time by exploring what the country has to offer. New Zealand is renowned for its diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines and native forests to geothermal areas and alpine regions. 

Hiring a car is highly recommended for those wishing to explore beyond the major cities, as public transport options are limited in more remote areas where the most beautiful locations are found. 

Hybrids and EVs are well established in New Zealand with a robust charging network. 

Note: in New Zealand, cars are driven on the left side of the road. 

August in New Zealand is at the end of winter, coming into spring. 

In Hamilton, it does not tend to snow and you can expect temperatures in the winter to vary widely (average ~4 - 14 °C but was up to 20 °C in 2025). 

A common saying here in NZ is "four seasons in a day" (all year round) so pack warm layers, a sunhat, a rain jacket and comfortable walking shoes. If venturing South, be prepared that there may be snow, especially in higher altitudes. 

Currency: New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Payments: Card (Visa/Mastercard) is the most common way to pay for things in New Zealand (except for buses which are cash only - exact fare, or card can be used to top up the Bee card).

Connectivity: Local SIM cards are easy to purchase from the airport, supermarkets or direct from a telco store (One, Spark, 2degrees, Skinny). Public WiFi is available in many places in the city centre and at the University of Waikato. If travelling to any scenic destinations, it is best to use mobile data. 

Eating out: There are many restaurants and cafes in the city centre. A wide range of cuisines are available and can cater for multiple dietary requirements. Tipping is not expected in New Zealand. 

Groceries: The largest supermarkets are Woolworths, New World and Countdown. A few other smaller grocers also exist: Four Square, Fresh Choice, as well as "dairies" which are corner stores. 

Plugs: Power plugs in New Zealand are (Type I) with a standard voltage of 230/240V and 50Hz frequency. If travelling from countries with non-230V, such as the US or Japan, please check whether you require a voltage converter.